bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphate Solubilization and Plant Growth Promotion by Enterobacter sp. Isolate
Authors: Damo Jean Louise Cocson , Pedro Mannix , Sison Maria Lourdes
Published: August 2024

Phosphorus (P) solubilization is one of the major traits for plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria since P is easily rendered insoluble in soil. Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms can be harnessed as an environment-friendly strategy to enhance the mobilization and acquisition of P by crops. Utilization of such microorganisms as microbial inoculants in agriculture serves as an alternative to chemical fertilizers and an approach for more efficient P fertilization. Hence, this study aims to characterize a phosphate-solubilizing isolate and evaluate its potential as a microbial inoculant. Morphological, biochemical, and genetic characterization of the isolate were performed. Then, the mineral phosphate solubilization ability of the isolate was evaluated. Lastly, this study evaluated the plant growth promotion of the isolate as a single inoculant in rice or as a co-inoculant with rhizobia in peanuts. On the basis of biochemical and 16S rRNA analysis, the isolate was identified as Enterobacter sp. Also, it can solubilize P from tricalcium phosphate or aluminum phosphate. Simultaneous with P solubilization, medium acidification, and gluconic acid secretion were observed. Lastly, the Enterobacter sp. isolate could potentially be developed as a biofertilizer in reducing P resource input or to enhance the performance of a rhizobia inoculant.
Chemical Composition of PM10 in a Classroom near the Copper Smelter in Bor, Serbia
Authors: Radović Bojan , Tasić Viša , Kovačević Renata , Apostolovski-Trujić Tatjana , Manojlović Dragan , Cocić Mira , Urošević Tamara
Published: August 2024

An analysis was conducted on the influence of advancements in smelting technology at the copper smelter in Bor, Serbia, and seasonal changes on the level and chemical composition of PM10 inside and outside a classroom at the Technical Faculty in Bor in 2015 and 2019. The results of chemical analyses revealed that the average level of arsenic in PM10 within the classroom reached 11.9 ng/m3, nearly double the annual target value. In comparison, the average level of arsenic (As) in PM10 in ambient air stood at 15 ng/m3. A notable enrichment factor was observed for elements present in copper concentrates (Se > Ag > Bi > Pb > Cd > As > Sb > S > Cu > Sn > Zn) in both the classroom and outdoor air, underscoring their predominantly anthropogenic origin. Higher concentrations of As in PM10 were recorded during the non-heating season and the operation of the copper smelter with outdated smelting technology (2015). These findings hold significant implications for health protection for all citizens in the investigated area surrounding the Technical Faculty in Bor. The study highlights the need for additional measures to reduce As content in PM10 in ambient air and prevent the infiltration of suspended particles from outdoor air into classrooms.
Oxidative Stress-Induced Gastrointestinal Diseases: Biology and Nanomedicines—A Review
Authors: Rezvani Maryam
Published: August 2024

Gastrointestinal diseases have been among the main concerns of medical and scientific societies for a long time. Several studies have emphasized the critical role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of the most common gastrointestinal diseases. To provide a comprehensive overview of gastrointestinal diseases caused by oxidative stress, their biological aspects, molecular mechanisms and specific pathways, the results of the most recent published articles from the online databases were studied considering both the upper and lower parts of the digestive tract. The results revealed that although the oxidative stress in each part of the digestive system manifests itself in a specific way, all these diseases arise from the imbalance between the generation of the reactive intermediates (especially reactive oxygen species) and the antioxidant defense system. Annual incidence and mortality statistics of gastrointestinal diseases worldwide emphasize the urgent need to find an effective and non-invasive treatment method to overcome these life-threatening problems. Therefore, in the next step, a variety of nanomedicurfines developed to treat these diseases and their effect mechanisms were investigated precisely. Furthermore, the most important nanomedicines responsive to endogenous and exogenous stimuli were evaluated in detail. This review could pave the way to open a new horizon in effectively treating gastrointestinal diseases.
User Perspectives and Psychophysiological Manifestations of Fatigue with Trunk Orthosis for Dystrophinopathy Patients
Authors: Rao Ahmad Zahid , Danish Mujib Muhammad , Abul Hasan Muhammad , Alokaily Ahmad O. , Tahira Tayyaba , Qazi Saad Ahmed
Published: August 2024

The chair-mounted passive trunk orthosis (CMPTO) is designed to enhance wheelchair safety for individuals with dystrophinopathy during their daily activities. Given the disease’s progressive nature, it is crucial to ensure that assistive devices are carefully evaluated to prevent overexertion. This study aims to assess the CMPTO’s user experience and its impact on fatigue-related psychophysiological measurements. We conducted electromyography (EMG) evaluations of four trunk muscles and assessed perceived exertion using the Borg CR-10 scale in 40 healthy subjects while they performed seated maximal reaching tasks with the CMPTO. Additionally, fifteen dystrophinopathy patients evaluated the CMPTO for usability with the System Usability Scale. Paired t-tests were employed to compare the median frequency (MDF) of EMG signals, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for evaluating exertion, and the Mann–Whitney U test to compare the usability reported by patients to those of healthy subjects. The 4-way ANOVA revealed that MDF patterns were significantly influenced by task orientation for each muscle. The CMPTO did not cause a significant reduction in the MDF. Tasks requiring greater trunk rotation were perceived as more exhaustive. Patients reported acceptable usability with the CMPTO, with scores higher than those of healthy subjects. The CMPTO’s usability was comprehensively evaluated in both healthy subjects and patients with dystrophinopathy. Our findings indicate that the CMPTO can be safely used by individuals with dystrophinopathy as an assistive device to improve seated comfort and functional abilities.
Single-Trial Detection and Classification of Event-Related Optical Signals for a Brain–Computer Interface Application
Authors: Chiou Nicole , Günal Mehmet , Koyejo Sanmi , Perpetuini David , Chiarelli Antonio Maria , Low Kathy A. , Fabiani Monica , Gratton Gabriele
Published: August 2024

Event-related optical signals (EROS) measure fast modulations in the brain’s optical properties related to neuronal activity. EROS offer a high spatial and temporal resolution and can be used for brain–computer interface (BCI) applications. However, the ability to classify single-trial EROS remains unexplored. This study evaluates the performance of neural network methods for single-trial classification of motor response-related EROS. EROS activity was obtained from a high-density recording montage covering the motor cortex during a two-choice reaction time task involving responses with the left or right hand. This study utilized a convolutional neural network (CNN) approach to extract spatiotemporal features from EROS data and perform classification of left and right motor responses. Subject-specific classifiers trained on EROS phase data outperformed those trained on intensity data, reaching an average single-trial classification accuracy of around 63%. Removing low-frequency noise from intensity data is critical for achieving discriminative classification results with this measure. Our results indicate that deep learning with high-spatial-resolution signals, such as EROS, can be successfully applied to single-trial classifications.
Exploring a Cheese Ripening Process That Hinders Ochratoxin A Production by Penicillium nordicum and Penicillium verrucosum
Authors: Rodríguez Alicia , Magan Naresh , Delgado Josué
Published: August 2024

A lack of control of the technological abiotic parameters apparent during cheese manufacture, including temperature and relative humidity, results in this dairy product being prone to mold contamination. Sometimes, inoculant molds are used to obtain the characteristic sensory properties of this type of product. However, during the maturation process, some unwanted molds can colonize the ripening cheese and produce mycotoxins. Mycotoxigenic molds such as Penicillium nordicum and Penicillium verrucosum can colonize ripened cheeses, contaminating them with ochratoxin A (OTA), a nephrotoxic 2B toxin. Thus, the presence of OTA in cheeses could represent a hazard to consumers’ health. This study has evaluated the growth and OTA production of P. nordicum and P. verrucosum on a cheese analogue under simulated ripening conditions of 10 and 15 °C and 0.96 water activity (aw). Ecophysiological, molecular, and analytical tools assessed the mold growth, gene expression, and OTA production under these environmental conditions. Both species were able to effectively colonize the cheese under these ripening conditions. However, neither species expressed the otapks and otanps biosynthetic genes or produced phenotypic OTA. Therefore, these results suggest a relatively low risk of exposure to OTA for consumers of this type of cheese product. The conditions used were thus appropriate for cheese ripening to minimize the potential for contamination with such mycotoxins. An appropriate adjustment of the technological ripening parameters during such cheese manufacture could contribute to OTA-free cheeses.
Epigenetic Modifiers in Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Hu Die , Zhao Tianci , Xu Chenxing , Pan Xinyi , Zhou Zhengyu , Wang Shengjie
Published: August 2024

Metastasis is the primary cause of cancer-related death, with the dissemination and colonization of primary tumor cells at the metastatic site facilitated by various molecules and complex pathways. Understanding the biological mechanisms underlying the metastatic process is critical for the development of effective interventions. Several epigenetic modifications have been identified that play critical roles in regulating cancer metastasis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of recent advances in understanding the role of epigenetic modifiers, including histone modifications, DNA methylation, non-coding RNAs, enhancer reprogramming, chromatin accessibility, and N6-methyladenosine, in metastasis-associated processes, such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer cell migration, and invasion. In particular, this review provides a detailed and in-depth description of the role of crosstalk between epigenetic regulators in tumor metastasis. Additionally, we explored the potential and limitations of epigenetics-related target molecules in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of cancer metastasis.
Are Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome at Increased Risk of Alzheimer Disease? Lessons from Insulin Resistance, Tryptophan and Gonadotropin Disturbances and Their Link with Amyloid-Beta Aggregation
Authors: Sobczuk Joachim , Paczkowska Katarzyna , Andrusiów Szymon , Bolanowski Marek , Daroszewski Jacek
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer disease, the leading cause of dementia, and polycystic ovary syndrome, one of the most prevalent female endocrine disorders, appear to be unrelated conditions. However, studies show that both disease entities have common risk factors, and the amount of certain protein marker of neurodegeneration is increased in PCOS. Reports on the pathomechanism of both diseases point to the possibility of common denominators linking them. Dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway, insulin resistance, and impairment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which are correlated with amyloid-beta aggregation are these common areas. This article discusses the relationship between Alzheimer disease and polycystic ovary syndrome, with a particular focus on the role of disorders of tryptophan metabolism in both conditions. Based on a review of the available literature, we concluded that systemic changes occurring in PCOS influence the increased risk of neurodegeneration.
Cytokines from SARS-CoV-2 Spike-Activated Macrophages Hinder Proliferation and Cause Cell Dysfunction in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Recchia Luciani Giulia , Barilli Amelia , Visigalli Rossana , Dall’Asta Valeria , Rotoli Bianca Maria
Published: August 2024

Endothelial dysfunction plays a central role in the severity of COVID-19, since the respiratory, thrombotic and myocardial complications of the disease are closely linked to vascular endothelial damage. To address this issue, we evaluate here the effect of conditioned media from spike S1-activated macrophages (CM_S1) on the proliferation of human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs), focusing on the specific role of interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Results obtained demonstrate that the incubation with CM_S1 for 72 h hinders endothelial cell proliferation and induces signs of cytotoxicity. Comparable results are obtained upon exposure to IFN-γ + TNF-α, which are thus postulated to play a pivotal role in the effects observed. These events are associated with an increase in p21 protein and a decrease in Rb phosphorylation, as well as with the activation of IRF-1 and NF-kB transcription factors. Overall, these findings further sustain the pivotal role of a hypersecretion of inflammatory cytokines as a trigger for endothelial activation and injury in the immune-mediated effects of COVID-19.
TLCD4 as Potential Transcriptomic Biomarker of Cold Exposure
Authors: Reynés Bàrbara , García-Ruiz Estefanía , van Schothorst Evert M. , Keijer Jaap , Oliver Paula , Palou Andreu
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Cold exposure induces metabolic adaptations that can promote health benefits, including increased energy disposal due to lipid mobilization in adipose tissue (AT). This study aims to identify easily measurable biomarkers mirroring the effect of cold exposure on AT. (2) Methods: Transcriptomic analysis was performed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and distinct AT depots of two animal models (ferrets and rats) exposed to cold, and in PBMCs of cold-exposed humans. (3) Results: One week of cold exposure (at 4 °C) affected different metabolic pathways and gene expression in the AT of ferrets, an animal model with an AT more similar to humans than that of rodents. However, only one gene, Tlcd4, was affected in the same way (overexpressed) in aortic perivascular and inguinal AT depots and in PBMCs, making it a potential biomarker of interest. Subsequent targeted analysis in rats showed that 1 week at 4 °C also induced Tlcd4 expression in brown AT and PBMCs, while 1 h at 4 °C resulted in reduced Tlcd4 mRNA levels in retroperitoneal white AT. In humans, no clear effects were observed. Nevertheless, decreased PBMC TLCD4 expression was observed after acute cold exposure in women with normal weight, although this effect could be attributed to short-term fasting during the procedure. No effect was evident in women with overweight or in normal-weight men. (4) Conclusions: Our results obtained for different species point toward TLCD4 gene expression as a potential biomarker of cold exposure/fat mobilization that could tentatively be used to address the effectiveness of cold exposure-mimicking therapies.
From Citrus Waste to Valuable Resources: A Biorefinery Approach
Authors: Medina-Herrera Nancy , Martínez-Ávila Guillermo Cristian Guadalupe , Robledo-Jiménez Claudia Lizeth , Rojas Romeo , Orozco-Zamora Bianca Sherlyn
Published: August 2024

Typically, citrus waste is composted on land by producers or used as livestock feed. However, the biorefinery approach offers a sustainable and economically viable solution for managing and valorizing these agricultural residues. This review examines research from the period 2014 to 2024. Citrus waste can be utilized initially by extracting the present phytochemicals and subsequently by producing value-added products using it as a raw material. The phytochemicals reported as extracted include essential oils (primarily limonene), pectin, polyphenolic components, micro- and nano-cellulose, proteins, and enzymes, among others. The components produced from the waste include bioethanol, biogas, volatile acids, biodiesel, microbial enzymes, and levulinic acid, among others. The review indicates that citrus waste has technical, economic, and environmental potential for utilization at the laboratory scale and, in some cases, at the pilot scale. However, research on refining pathways, optimization, and scalability must continue to be an active field of investigation.
People with Parkinson’s Disease Are Able to Couple Eye Movements and Postural Sway to Improve Stability
Authors: Barbieri Fabio Augusto , Polastri Paula Favaro , Barela José Angelo , Bonnet Cédrick T. , Brito Matheus Belizario , Rodrigues Sergio Tosi
Published: August 2024

Considering that people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experience challenges in the control of both balance and eye movements, this study investigated the effects of saccadic eye movements on body sway in people with PD in two bases of support positions (side-by-side and tandem stances). Ten people with PD and 11 healthy individuals performed (a) fixation; (b) horizontal saccadic eye movements to the right and left; and (c) vertical saccadic eye movements up and down. The protocol for each postural task consisted of one block of six trials, making a total of 12 trials. Body sway and gaze parameters were measured during the trials. In both people with PD and healthy individuals, anterior–posterior body sway was significantly reduced in horizontal saccadic eye movements in contrast to fixation, regardless of the body position (side-by-side and tandem stances). Furthermore, vertical saccadic eye movements increased the area of sway in contrast to horizontal ones (and not to fixation) in people with PD. In addition, people with PD showed a higher number of fixations in all experimental conditions, without changes in the mean duration of fixations in both body positions. In conclusion, individuals with PD can improve body sway by coupling eye movements and postural sway when performing horizontal saccadic eye movements but not when performing vertical saccadic eye movements.
Beta2-Adrenergic Suppression of Neuroinflammation in Treatment of Parkinsonism, with Relevance for Neurodegenerative and Neoplastic Disorders
Authors: Inchiosa Mario A.
Published: August 2024

There is a preliminary record suggesting that β2-adrenergic agonists may have therapeutic value in Parkinson’s disease; recent studies have proposed a possible role of these agents in suppressing the formation of α-synuclein protein, a component of Lewy bodies. The present study focuses on the importance of the prototypical β2-adrenergic agonist epinephrine in relation to the incidence of Parkinson’s disease in humans, and its further investigation via synthetic selective β2-receptor agonists, such as levalbuterol. Levalbuterol exerts significant anti-inflammatory activity, a property that may suppress cytokine-mediated degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and progression of Parkinsonism. In a completely novel finding, epinephrine and certain other adrenergic agents modeled in the Harvard/MIT Broad Institute genomic database, CLUE, demonstrated strong associations with the gene-expression signatures of anti-inflammatory glucocorticoids. This prompted in vivo confirmation in mice engrafted with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Upon toxic activation with mononuclear antibodies, levalbuterol inhibited (1) the release of the eosinophil attractant chemokine eotaxin-1, which is implicated in CNS and peripheral inflammatory disorders, (2) elaboration of the tumor-promoting angiogenic factor VEGFa, and (3) release of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-13 from activated PBMCs. These observations suggest possible translation to Parkinson’s disease, other neurodegenerative syndromes, and malignancies, via several mechanisms.
The Neuroprotective Effect of Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule L1 in the Hippocampus of Aged Alzheimer’s Disease Model Mice
Authors: Aksic Miljana , Jakovcevski Igor , Hamad Mohammad I. K. , Jakovljevic Vladimir , Stankovic Sanja , Vulovic Maja
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder and the most common form of dementia, causing the loss of cognitive function. Our previous study has shown, using a doubly mutated mouse model of AD (APP/PS1), that the neural adhesion molecule L1 directly binds amyloid peptides and decreases plaque load and gliosis when injected as an adeno-associated virus construct (AAV-L1) into APP/PS1 mice. In this study, we microinjected AAV-L1, using a Hamilton syringe, directly into the 3-month-old APP/PS1 mouse hippocampus and waited for a year until significant neurodegeneration developed. We stereologically counted the principal neurons and parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the hippocampus, estimated the density of inhibitory synapses around principal cells, and compared the AAV-L1 injection models with control injections of green fluorescent protein (AAV-GFP) and the wild-type hippocampus. Our results show that there is a significant loss of granule cells in the dentate gyrus of the APP/PS1 mice, which was improved by AAV-L1 injection, compared with the AAV-GFP controls (p < 0.05). There is also a generalized loss of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice, which is ameliorated by AAV-L1 injection, compared with the AAV-GFP controls (p < 0.05). Additionally, AAV-L1 injection promotes the survival of inhibitory synapses around the principal cells compared with AAV-GFP controls in all three hippocampal subfields (p < 0.01). Our results indicate that L1 promotes neuronal survival and protects the synapses in an AD mouse model, which could have therapeutic implications.
Recent Computational Approaches in Understanding the Links between Molecular Stress and Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Papadaki Eugenia , Paplomatas Petros , Vlamos Panagiotis , Vrahatis Aristidis
Published: August 2024

In the modern era of medicine, advancements in data science and biomedical technologies have revolutionized our understanding of diseases. Cancer, being a complex disease, has particularly benefited from the wealth of molecular data available, which can now be analyzed using cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and information science methods. In this context, recent studies have increasingly recognized chronic stress as a significant factor in cancer progression. Utilizing computational methods to address this matter has demonstrated encouraging advancements, providing a hopeful outlook in our efforts to combat cancer. This review focuses on recent computational approaches in understanding the molecular links between stress and cancer metastasis. Specifically, we explore the utilization of single-cell data, an innovative technique in DNA sequencing that allows for detailed analysis. Additionally, we explore the application of AI and data mining techniques to these complex and large-scale datasets. Our findings underscore the potential of these computational pipelines to unravel the intricate relationship between stress and cancer metastasis. However, it is important to note that this field is still in its early stages, and we anticipate a proliferation of similar approaches in the near future, further advancing our understanding and treatment of cancer.
Ground Strength Test Technique of Variable-Camber Wing Leading Edge
Authors: Li Shanshan , Chen Xianmin , Wang Zhigang , Liang Yuanbo
Published: August 2024

Morphing wing technology is crucial for enhancing the flight performance of aircraft. To address the monitoring challenges of full-scale variable-camber leading edges under flight conditions, this study introduces a ground-based strength testing technique aimed at precisely evaluating the deformation patterns and structural strength during actual operation. Firstly, the motion characteristics of the variable-camber leading edge were analyzed using numerical simulation based on kinematic theory. Secondly, a tracking loading test rig was designed and constructed to simulate the actuated deformation and aerodynamic loads of the leading edge. Next, mechanical boundary numerical simulation was then utilized to predict the motion trajectories of loading points on the upper and lower wing surfaces, and a multi-point coordinated control system was developed to achieve accurate experimental control. Finally, a multi-sensor iterative method was employed to ensure loading precision throughout the testing process. A case study was conducted using a leading edge test piece from a specific commercial aircraft. The results indicated that in the motion test of the variable-camber leading edge, the average error of the deflection angle was 4.59%; in the strength test, the average errors in the magnitude and direction of the applied load were 0.54% and 0.24%, respectively. These findings validate the effectiveness of the proposed technique in simulating the flight conditions of deforming wings and accurately obtaining the leading edge shape change curve, deformation accuracy curve, and strain curves of the upper and lower wing surfaces under deflection angles. Furthermore, this paper compares the deformation accuracy of different testing methods under test conditions, providing scientific evidence and technical support for the testing and evaluation of variable-camber leading edges.
Winter Bird Diversity and Community Structure in Relation to Shrub Cover and Invasive Exotic Natal Grass in Two Livestock Ranches in the Chihuahuan Desert, Mexico
Authors: Titulaer Mieke , Aragón Gurrola Cielo Marisol , Melgoza Castillo Alicia , Camargo-Sanabria Angela A. , Hernández-Quiroz Nathalie S.
Published: August 2024

Grasslands are one of the most threatened terrestrial biomes leading to a loss of grassland biodiversity, including birds. Here, we studied the wintering grassland bird diversity and community structure in two private livestock ranches in the Chihuahuan Desert, Mexico. We explored how bird communities are related to vegetation structure, including shrub cover and invasive exotic natal grass (Melinis repens), two drivers of grassland bird habitat degradation. We used Hill’s numbers to estimate taxonomic species richness and diversity and related these metrics to vegetation covariables using linear models. We employed nonmetric dimensional scaling (NMDS) to explore the importance of vegetation covariates in structuring bird communities. We found that bird species diversity was significantly and negatively related to bare ground cover at a plot level. At the ranch level, shrub cover, grass height and natal grass were important in structuring avian communities, negatively affecting the presence and abundance of grassland specialist bird species. Our results indicated that shrub encroachment and invasive exotic natal grass cover may alter grassland bird communities and should, therefore, be considered in grassland bird conservation management.
Family Functioning and Adolescent Mental Health: The Mediating Role of Bullying Victimization and Resilience
Authors: Zhang Juan , Duan Xiang , Yan Yiwen , Tan Yuxin , Wu Taimin , Xie Yaofei , Yang Bing Xiang , Luo Dan , Liu Lianzhong
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to understand the current state of adolescent mental health, explore the mediating effect of bullying victimization and resilience in the relationship between adolescent family functioning and mental health, and investigate gender differences in this association. A total of 4319 students (2347 boys and 1972 girls) completed the questionnaire. Mediating effects were analyzed using the framework of structural equation modeling and bootstrapping. The results revealed that family functioning is significantly associated with adolescent mental health, and that bullying victimization and resilience have significant independent and chain mediating effects on this relationship. Multiple group analysis revealed that the independent mediating role of resilience was more significant for male adolescents. Furthermore, the chain-mediated effects of bullying victimization and resilience were observed only in the relationship between family functioning and mental health in male adolescents. To improve the mental health of adolescents, special attention should be given to the impact of family life on adolescents’ school life. Early detection and intervention for adolescents with poor family functioning are also important to effectively prevent bullying victimization and reduce the emergence of mental health problems.
The Application of Calcium-Based Expansive Agents in High-Strength Concrete: A Review
Authors: Zhang Yulu , Pan Yifan , Ren Tiezhen , Liang Hongtao , Zhang Jianfeng , Zhang Dakang
Published: August 2024

In this study, comprehensive investigation of the shrinkage compensation mechanisms of calcium-based expansive agents (CEAs), their effects on the properties of (ultra) high-strength concrete (HSC/UHSC), and the existing problems in applying this methodology was conducted. Analyses showed that the rational use of CEAs under certain conditions could greatly or completely inhibit the development of autogenous shrinkage of HSC/UHSC and significantly reduce the risk of associated cracking. However, it was found that the hydration of the CEAs affected the hydration process of other binders, thereby altering the microstructure of concrete. This, in turn, led to a reduction in mechanical properties such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and elastic modulus, with the rate of reduction increasing as the amount of CEA used increased. Moreover, when attempting to improve the shrinkage compensation effects, increasing the amount of CEA presented a risk of delayed expansion cracking of the HSC/UHSC. Neither the expansion mechanism, expansion conditions, nor the inhibition methods have yet been fully clarified in the current stage. Lastly, newly proposed Ca–Mg composite EAs were outlined, and the research prospects of Ca–Mg composite EAs in HSC/UHSC were explored.
An Improved Numerical Simulation Method for Rockbolt Fracture and Its Application in Deep Extra-Thick Coal Seam Roadways
Authors: Zhang Wenhao , Zhao Shuang , Zhang Bin , Gao Weimin , Zhu Qingwen , Li Tingchun , Wang Binxu
Published: August 2024

An improved method for rockbolt fracture is proposed in this paper to determine the exact fracture position of rockbolts simulated using cable structural elements (cableSELs) in FLAC3D. This method employs the total elongation of the free segment of the rockbolt as the fracture criterion. The maximum deformation position is identified by comparing the length of each cableSEL in the free segment, leading to the fracture. The simulation results validated through a rockbolt tensile test closely match actual conditions. The proposed method was used to optimize the roadway support in deep extra-thick coal seams (DECSs). Optimized parameters were obtained by simulating and analyzing different lengths and spacings of rockbolts and anchor cables. The field implementation conducted shows that the optimized deformation and support strength of the roadway meet safety needs.
Investigation of Bus Shelters and Their Thermal Environment in Hot–Humid Areas—A Case Study in Guangzhou
Authors: Pan Yan , Li Shan , Tang Xiaoxiang
Published: August 2024

The acceleration of urbanization intensifies the urban heat island, outdoor activities (especially the road travel) are seriously affected by the overheating environment, and the comfort and safety of the bus shelter as an accessory facility of road travel are crucial to the passenger’s experience. This study investigated the basic information (e.g., distribution, orientation) of 373 bus shelters in Guangzhou and extracted the typical style by classifying the characteristics of these bus shelters. Additionally, we also measured the thermal environment of some bus shelters in summer and investigated the cooling behavior of passengers in such an environment. The results show that the typical style of bus shelters in the core area of Guangzhou is north–south orientation, with only one station board at the end of the bus, two backboards, two roofs (opaque green), and the underlying surface is made of red permeable brick. The air temperature and relative humidity under different bus shelters, tree shading areas, and open space in summer are 34–37 °C and 49–56%, respectively. For the bus shelters with heavy traffic loads, the air temperature is basically above 35.5 °C, and the thermal environment is not comfortable. During the hot summer, when there is no bus shelter or trees to shade the sun, the waiting people adjust their position with the sun’s height, azimuth angles, and direct solar radiation intensity to reduce the received radiation as much as possible, which brings great inconvenience to them. When only bus shelters provide shade, people tend to gather in the shaded space, and cooling measures such as umbrellas, hats, and small fans are still needed to alleviate thermal discomfort. However, the aforementioned various spontaneous cooling behaviors still cannot effectively alleviate overheating, and it is very important to increase auxiliary cooling facilities in bus shelters.
Choosing the Right Construction Method: A Comparative Study of Cost and Timeline for Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches
Authors: Meral Çetin , Temel Bayram Ali , Başaga Hasan Basri
Published: August 2024

The selection of an appropriate construction method stands as a pivotal decision in ensuring the success of any building project. This paper undertakes a comprehensive comparative analysis of cost and timeline implications between the top-down and bottom-up construction methodologies. The research focuses on ten distinct underground structure models, each characterized by varying depths and base areas. Through rigorous design and analysis, the cost and projected duration for each model are meticulously evaluated under the lens of both top-down and bottom-up construction techniques. The findings reveal that while the bottom-up approach emerges as the most cost-effective alternative at a depth of 8 m, the top-down method exhibits superior cost efficiency with increasing depth. Interestingly, alterations in the structure’s base area exert a minimal influence on the cost differentials between the two methodologies. Moreover, the top-down construction method consistently outshines its counterpart in terms of project duration across all ten models examined, with the percentage increase in base area yielding insignificant impacts on project timeline discrepancies. This study furnishes construction project managers with invaluable insights to navigate the complexities of method selection. By judiciously considering parameters such as project scale, depth, and base area, managers can strategically optimize both cost and timeline outcomes, thereby facilitating the seamless execution of construction projects.
Challenging the Western Framing of Sustainability: A Contextual Analysis of Four Architectural Projects in Kenya
Authors: Ng’eno Chelang’at Faith , Lawrence Ranald
Published: August 2024

Sustainable design discourse reflects diverse understandings and ideological perspectives, leading to a profusion of codes, guides, approaches and solutions, with competing claims to relevance in different contexts. This article presents a comparative investigation of four architectural projects in Nairobi, Kenya, focusing on the sustainable design approaches of different design teams, clients, and other stakeholders. The study includes interviews with architects together with field observations. The analysis examines technical and ideological approaches to sustainability, comparing the influence of techno-centric ‘Western’ approaches with low-tech alternatives, before reflecting on the most appropriate design strategies for the social and climate context. The findings highlight the significance of collaboration and conflicts between stakeholders, and the implications for design decisions. It examines the complexities, challenges, and trade-offs inherent to achieving a sustainable outcome when stakeholders with different interpretations of sustainability are brought together. Four related systematic problems concerning the practice of sustainable design in Kenya are identified: the maladaptation of Western design approaches; misunderstanding of local context; a normative bias towards technological solutions; and the prioritisation of economic considerations.
Assessing the Adequacy of Traditional Vertebral Landmarks as Upper Border of Whole Pelvic Radiotherapy Field for Stage IB2-IIB Cervical Cancer
Authors: Jo Ji Hwan , Lee Jeong Won , Seol Ki Ho
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of insufficient common iliac lymph node (CIN) irradiation on treatment outcomes in patients with stage IB2-IIB cervical cancer receiving concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). We retrospectively analyzed 68 patients with Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IB2-IIB, treated with weekly cisplatin-based CCRT from 2008 to 2018. Patients received external-beam whole pelvic radiotherapy (WPRT) and concurrent cisplatin chemotherapy, followed by high-dose-rate brachytherapy. The WPRT upper border was at L4-5 in 61 patients and L3-4 in 7 patients. Thirty-seven patients had the CIN area fully included (full-CIN group), while 31 had partial inclusion (partial-CIN group). Recurrence rates and survival outcomes were analyzed over a median follow-up of 111 months. Patient characteristics and the irradiated dose were comparable. Treatment failure occurred in three patients (8.1%) in the full-CIN group and in six patients (19.4%) in the partial-CIN group, with CIN and para-aortic lymph node recurrence in two and one patients, respectively. The 5-year cumulative recurrence rate was 0% for the full-CIN group and 11.4% for the partial-CIN group (p = 0.04). Cause-specific survival was 100% vs. 87.1% (p = 0.025), and the overall survival was 94.3% vs. 87.1% (p = 0.44). Fully including the CIN area in WPRT is crucial for stage IB2-IIB cervical cancer. Vascular anatomical margins should be considered over vertebral landmarks.
Application of Catalysts in the Conversion of Biomass and Its Derivatives
Authors: Cai Jixiang , Wei Lianghuan , Wang Jianguo , Lin Ning , Li Youwen , Li Feixing , Zha Xianghao , Li Weizun
Published: August 2024

With the continuous depletion of fossil resources and the deterioration of the global climate, it is particularly urgent to find green and sustainable renewable resources to replace non-renewable resources. Renewable biomass, which converts and stores light energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis by green plants, has received widespread attention due to its simultaneous resource and energy properties. Therefore, this article focuses on lignocellulose, an important component of biomass, in the fields of chemical conversion and high-value-added chemical preparation. A detailed review was conducted on the application of catalysts in biomass bio-char, bio-oil, bio-gas, and high-value added chemicals and their derivatives, represented by 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) and levulinic acid (LA). At the same time, the difficulties and challenges encountered by catalysts in biomass conversion were analyzed, and new ideas were proposed for future development directions, so as to provide new development pathways for efficient and green conversion of biomass into biomass energy and high-value-added chemicals.
Preparation of Polycrystalline Silicon by Metal-Induced Crystallization of Silicon–Carbon Powder
Authors: Cherkashina Natalia Igorevna , Pavlenko Vyacheslav Ivanovich , Gorodov Andrey Ivanovich , Ryzhikh Dar’ya Aleksandrovna
Published: August 2024

In this study, we successfully obtained crystalline silicon from silica powder using a metal-induced crystallization method. For this purpose, powders were first prepared from organosilicon compounds and finely dispersed aluminum particles, then their metal-induced crystallization was carried out by annealing at the temperature of 570 °C. Powders of organosilicon compounds (tetraethoxysilane and polyethylhydrosiloxane) were prepared by different technological operations in order to determine precisely the presence of carbon in the product. The results showed that the presence of carbon in silica powder affects the production of crystalline silicon. In silica powders containing no carbon, the formation of crystalline substances does not occur at the annealing temperature of 570 °C. The results of this study are of great importance for the production of polycrystalline silicon powders obtained at reduced temperatures.
Investigating the Mechanism Underlying Umami Substance Detection in Taste Sensors by Using 1H-NMR Analysis
Authors: Yuan Wenhao , Ide Haruna , Zhao Zeyu , Koshi Mariko , Kimura Shunsuke , Matsui Toshiro , Toko Kiyoshi
Published: August 2024

Previous studies have reported the development of a taste sensor using a surface modification approach to evaluate umami taste, specifically substances like monosodium L-glutamate (MSG) and monosodium L-aspartate. The sensor was modified with 2,6-dihydroxyterephthalic acid (2,6-DHTA). However, the mechanism underlying umami substance detection in the 2,6-DHTA- treated sensor remains unidentified, as does whether the specific detection is due to an intermolecular interaction between the modifier and the analyte. In this study, 1H-NMR measurements were conducted for a variety of modifiers and analytes in terms of structures, along with taste sensor measurements. By comparing the 1H-NMR spectra and the results of the taste sensor, we suggested that both modifiers and analytes need to meet certain molecular structure conditions to produce intermolecular interactions. The modifier needs to possess intramolecular H-bonds and have carboxyl groups in the para position of the benzene ring, i.e., two carboxyl groups. In conclusion, we validated that the response mechanism of the taste sensor for umami substance measurement proposed in previous studies is reasonable and predicted the binding form of 2,6-DHTA and MSG.
Increase in Breastfeeding Rates in Baby-Friendly Hospitals in Greece: Comparison with the National Study of 2017
Authors: Christou Evangelos , Liakou Eftychia , Pouliakis Abraham , Sokou Rozeta , Volaki Paraskevi , Paliatsou Styliani , Boutsikou Theodora , Iacovidou Nicoletta , Iliodromiti Zoi
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: The primary purpose of this study was to correlate the factors influencing the onset and duration of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and breastfeeding (BF) rates at different time points in baby-friendly hospitals (BFHs) in Greece. Methods: This study was conducted from October 2020 to January 2022. The sample consisted of 1201 mothers with corresponding newborn births out of the total 7201 that took place during the same period. We used a questionnaire that the mothers answered during the first hour after birth, before being discharged from the maternity hospital, and at the 2nd, 4th, and 6th month of the infant’s life. The results were compared with the data of the national study from 2017 (concerning births from general maternity hospitals and not only from BFHs). Results: The EBF rate within 1 h after birth was 71.3%, which gradually declined to 21.2% in the 6th month. Between the two studies, differences were recorded in BF and EBF rates at the 6th and 4th month of the infants’ life, respectively, especially in mothers who are less likely to breastfeed (e.g., those without breastfeeding experience, those over 40 years old, etc.). Conclusion: This study showed that EBF and BF rates are higher in infants born in BFHs compared to non-BFHs both during their hospitalization in the first days of life and during the first 6 months of life. BFHs also play a decisive role in mothers who, due to their socio-economic profile, have lower chances of starting to breastfeed.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery in Children Using the Senhance® Surgical System: An Observational Study
Authors: Killaars Rianne E. M. , Visschers Ruben G. J. , Dirix Marc , Theeuws Olivier P. F. , Eurlings Roxanne , Dinjens Dianne J. H. , Cakir Hamit , van Gemert Wim G.
Published: August 2024

Background: Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) holds many theoretical advantages, especially in pediatric surgical procedures. However, most robotic systems are dedicated to adult surgery and are less suitable for smaller children. The Senhance® Surgical System (SSS®), providing 3 mm and 5 mm instruments, focuses on making RAS technically feasible for smaller children. This prospective observational study aims to assess whether RAS in pediatric patients using the SSS® is safe and feasible. Methods and Results: A total of 42 children (aged 0–17 years, weight ≥ 10 kg) underwent a RAS procedure on the abdominal area using the SSS® between 2020 and 2023. The study group consisted of 20 male and 22 female individuals. The mean age was 10.7 years (range 0.8 to 17.8 years), with a mean body weight of 40.7 kg (range 10.1 to 117.3 kg). The 3-mm-sized instruments of the SSS® were used in 12 of the 42 children who underwent RAS. The RAS procedures were successfully completed in 90% of cases. The conversion rate to conventional laparoscopy was low (10%), and there were no conversions to open surgery. One of the 42 cases (2%) experienced intraoperative complications, whereas six children (14%) suffered from a postoperative complication. Overall, 86% of the patients had an uncomplicated postoperative course. Conclusions: The results of the current observational study demonstrate the safety and feasibility of utilizing the SSS® for abdominal pediatric RAS procedures. The study provides new fundamental information supporting the implementation of the SSS® in clinical practice in pediatric surgery.