bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Sound Wave and Water Management on Growth and Cd Accumulation by Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.)
Authors: Wang Su , Shao Yifan , Duan Jinsheng , He Huaidong , Xiao Qingqing
Published: September 2022

Vegetable contamination by cadmium (Cd) is of great concern. Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) is a common leafy vegetable in many countries and has a strong ability to accumulate Cd. The work was conducted to study the effects of sound wave, water management, and their combination on Cd accumulation and growth of water spinach, using the following three experiments: a hydroponic trial with the treatment of a plant acoustic frequency technology (PAFT) generator in test sheds, a hydroponic trial with three music treatments (electronic music (EM), rock music (RM), and classical music (CM)) in artificial climate boxes, and a soil pot trial with treatments of PAFT and EM under non-flooded and flooded conditions. The results showed that the hydroponic treatments of PAFT and EM significantly reduced the Cd concentrations in roots and shoots (edible parts) of water spinach by 22.01–36.50% compared with the control, possibly due to sound waves decreasing the root tip number per unit area and increasing average root diameter, root surface area, and total root length. Sound wave treatments clearly enhanced water spinach biomass by 28.27–38.32% in the hydroponic experiments. In the soil experiment, the flooded treatment significantly reduced the Cd concentrations in roots and shoots by 43.75–63.75%, compared with the non-flooded treatment. The Cd decrease and the biomass increase were further driven by the PAFT supplement under the flooding condition, likely related to the alteration in root porosity, rates of radial oxygen loss, extractable soil Cd, soil Eh, and soil pH. Our results indicate that the co-application of plant acoustic frequency technology and flooded management may be an effective approach to reduce Cd accumulation in water spinach.
An Overview on Traditional vs. Green Technology of Extraction Methods for Producing High Quality Walnut Oil
Authors: Masoodi Lubna , Gull Amir , Masoodi Farooq Ahmad , Gani Adil , Nissar Jasia , Ahad Tehmeena , Nayik Gulzar Ahmad , Mukarram Shaikh Ayaz , Kovács Béla , Prokisch József , El-Ramady Hassan , Solberg Svein Øivind
Published: September 2022

Walnut oil is extremely nutrient dense. It has plenty of oil and is high in fatty acids, which have positive biological properties and have a favorable impact on blood lipids and lipoproteins. Walnut oil is low in saturated fatty acids and high in unsaturated fatty acids as well as being high in other vital nutrients. Walnut oil can be extracted using traditional as well as new and green technologies. It is low in saturated fatty acids and high in unsaturated fatty acids (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids) as well as being high in other vital nutrients (e.g., selenium, phosphorus, and zinc). Walnut oil can be extracted using traditional as well as new and green technologies. The chosen extraction method has a significant impact on the lipids and other important components extracted. It is critical to select a suitable extraction process for the compounds of interest. In this study, different extraction methods are reviewed, demonstrating the significant benefits of new methods over previous approaches. New green technologies are ecologically benign and allow for shorter extraction times and yields that are comparable to those obtained using traditional methods. The new green technologies allow for higher-quality oils that are less vulnerable to oxidation processes than most of the old technologies.
Wiper Application of Herbicides to Cirsium arvense
Authors: Moyo Clyton , Harrington Kerry C. , Kemp Peter D. , Eerens Johannes P. J. , Ghanizadeh Hossein
Published: September 2022

Wiper applicators allow herbicides to be selectively delivered to upright target weeds, thereby avoiding application to nearby lower-growing desirable pasture plants. In this research, we investigated the efficacy of wiper application of four herbicides, clopyralid, metsulfuron, glyphosate and a triclopyr/picloram mixture, to control Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop., a troublesome weed of pastures in New Zealand. The results showed that wiper application of herbicides was a useful technique for controlling C. arvense. In one trial when plants were treated at the post-flowering stage, stem density reductions in the following season of 93%, 90% and 82% were achieved following a double pass with a rotary weed wiper containing glyphosate, clopyralid and metsulfuron, respectively. A double pass gave better control of dense infestations of C. arvense than a single pass for glyphosate and triclopyr/picloram, but not for clopyralid and metsulfuron. Despite wiper applicators usually being selective, some damage to pastures was recorded, very likely due to rain falling soon after wiper application. Overall, the results of this study revealed that wiper application can be used to selectively control C. arvense when the plants are treated at the post-flowering stage, though only if plants are actively growing. In addition, among the herbicides tested, glyphosate appears to be the best choice when using weed wipers to manage C. arvense, as this herbicide caused the least damage to pasture plants if washed off afterwards by rain.
Changes in the Chemical and Sensory Profile of Coffea canephora var. Conilon Promoted by Carbonic Maceration
Authors: Gomes Willian dos Santos , Pereira Lucas Louzada , Filete Cristhiane Altoé , Moreira Taís Rizzo , Guarçoni Rogério Carvalho , Catarina da Silva Oliveira Emanuele , Moreli Aldemar Polonini , Guimarães Cleidiana Vieira , Simmer Marinalva Maria Bratz , Júnior Valdemar Lacerda , Romão Wanderson , de Castro Eustaquio Vinicius Ribeiro , Partelli Fábio Luiz
Published: September 2022

Among the different strategies adopted to improve the quality of Coffea canephora, fermentation is considered a promising technology to modulate the organoleptic characteristics of the beverage. Considering the possibility of providing a change in sensory profile through fermentation, this study aims to evaluate the chemical and sensory changes promoted by carbonic maceration in C. canephora whose effect is still unknown. The study was implemented in anaerobic conditions with different fermentation times (24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h) and temperatures (18, 28, and 38 °C). The processed grains were subject to sensory analysis and medium infrared spectroscopy. Significant linear functional relationships were observed between total score and temperature for fermentation times of 24, 72, and 96 h and that the total score increased with fermentation temperature. Although a clear connection with sensory results was not observed, infrared analysis was able to point out important correlations with quality through stretches observed in infrared spectrum regions. Thus, there is feasibility of applying the carbonic maceration technique for grain processing of C. canephora.
Ground Hyper-Spectral Remote-Sensing Monitoring of Wheat Water Stress during Different Growing Stages
Authors: Li Qiang , Gao Maofang , Li Zhao-Liang
Published: September 2022

Monitoring agricultural drought via ground hyper-spectral remote sensing has always been a hot topic in the fields of agriculture and meteorology. In this study, a greenhouse experiment was conducted on wheat subjected to water stress during its different growth stages, namely tillering, jointing, and milk maturity. An instrument (HOBO ware PRO) used to continuously measure soil moisture was employed to measure the soil water content (SWC). An analytical spectral device (ASD) was utilized to obtain the spectral curve of wheat subject to different water treatment methods. The canopy temperature was obtained using thermal infrared sensors (METER SI-400). The relationships between the SWC, wheat drought stage, canopy temperature, and spectral response characteristics were elucidated. The results showed that the significant differences in spectral characteristics were due to water stress during the different growth stages of wheat. Red-edge parameters of red-valley position (RVP) and red-edge position (REP) both changed by 21 nm for the tillering-stage drought and the jointing-stage drought; however, the RVP and REP values for the milk maturity stage drought and the treatment under no water stress changed by 2 nm. Further, it was proved that the red-edge blue-shift phenomenon was affected not only by the different wheat growth processes, but also by the water stress at different growth stages. Red-edge reflectance clearly reflects wheat water stress at different growth stages. From SWC and canopy temperature analysis results, SWC and canopy temperature had a significant difference between wheat drought at different growth stages, and the canopy temperature at the jointing stage drought had the strongest change. The water index (WI) based on eleven vegetation water indexes exhibited a good performance for distinguishing wheat water stress at different growth stages. In conclusion, ground-based hyperspectral remote sensing can provide a large amount of high temporal and spectral resolution data on vegetation and its surrounding environment, making it an important technical tool for wheat drought monitoring, which has a great significance on the monitoring and early warning of wheat drought, reducing drought-related yield losses, and ensuring food security.
Effect of Feeding Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079 to Sows and Piglets on Piglets’ Immune Response after Vaccination against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Bravo de Laguna Fernando , Cabrera Carolina , González Ana Belén , de Pascual Clara , Pallarés Francisco José , Chevaux Eric , Castex Mathieu , Saornil David , Lebreton Pierre , Ramis Guillermo
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the effect that feeding Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079 (LSB) to lactating sows and their progeny has on inflammatory response and mucosal immunity after vaccination against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Sixty-seven Danbred sows were allotted into two treatments when they entered the farrowing room seven days before the expected farrowing date: control (CON: lactation diet) and LSB (CON + 12 × 109 colony forming units (CFU)/d until weaning). At weaning, piglets were equally allotted into two experimental diets according to sow diet: control (CON: 2-phase post-weaning diets) and LSB (CON + 2 × 109 CFU/kg and 1 × 109 CFU/kg in phases 1 and 2, respectively). The piglets were vaccinated at days 26 and 49 post-weaning. Growth performance and number of IgA producing cells and cytokine’s gene expression in lung, lymph node, and intestine samples at day 70 post-weaning were assessed and analyzed in SPSS Statistics 26: performance with a general linear model with sex, room, sow diet, piglet diet, and their interactions as main effects, and immunity with a Kruskal–Wallis test for k unrelated samples. Piglets from LSB-fed sows displayed a higher average daily gain (ADG; p < 0.01) and a heavier body weight (BW; p < 0.05) during lactation, tended (p < 0.1) to be heavier at day 49, and to have a higher ADG between days 26 and 49; had fewer number of IgA producing cells in the lymph node (p < 0.05); and all the cytokines studied were significantly under-regulated (p < 0.05) in the lung. It is concluded that feeding Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079 to sows improved piglet performance during lactation and showed a clear reduction in the inflammatory status of the lungs after vaccination against A. pleuropneumoniae, suggesting that there was a maternal imprinting effect on mucosal protection and a cross-talk between the gut microbiota and the lung.
Basal Reactivity Evaluated by Infrared Thermography in the “Caballo de Deporte Español” Horse Breed According to Its Coat Color
Authors: Bartolomé Ester , Perdomo-González Davinia I. , Ripollés-Lobo María , Valera Mercedes
Published: September 2022

Horses have been valued for their diversity of coat color since prehistoric times. In particular, the pleiotropic effect that coat color genes have on behavior determines the way the horse perceives and reacts to its environment. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of coat color on basal reactivity assessed with infrared thermography as eye temperature at rest (ETR), determine their relation with the results obtained by these horses in Show Jumping competitions and to estimate the genetic parameters for this variable to test its suitability for genetic selection. A General Linear Model (GLM) and Duncan post-hoc analysis indicated differences in ETR due to coat color, sex, age, location, and breed-group factors. A Spearman’s rank correlation of 0.11 (p < 0.05) was found with ranking, indicating that less reactive horses were more likely to achieve better rankings. Heritability values ranged from 0.17 to 0.22 and were computed with a model with genetic groups and a model with residual variance heterogeneity. Breeding values were higher with the last genetic model, thus demonstrating the pleiotropic effect of coat color. These results indicate that ETR has a suitable genetic basis to be used in the breeding program to select for basal reactivity due to coat color.
Video Validation of Tri-Axial Accelerometer for Monitoring Zoo-Housed Tamandua tetradactyla Activity Patterns in Response to Changes in Husbandry Conditions
Authors: Pavese Sofía , Centeno Carlos , Von Fersen Lorenzo , Eguizábal Gabina V. , Donet Luis , Asencio Camila J. , Villarreal Daniel P. , Busso Juan Manuel
Published: September 2022

Accelerometers are a technology that is increasingly used in the evaluation of animal behaviour. A tri-axial accelerometer attached to a vest was used on Tamandua tetradactyla individuals (n = 10) at Biodiversity Park. First, the influence of using a vest on the animals’ behaviour was evaluated (ABA-type: A1 and A2, without a vest; B, with a vest; each stage lasted 24 h), and no changes were detected. Second, their behaviour was monitored using videos and the accelerometer simultaneously (experimental room, 20 min). The observed behaviours were correlated with the accelerometer data, and summary measures (X, Y and Z axes) were obtained. Additionally, the overall dynamic body acceleration was calculated, determining a threshold to discriminate activity/inactivity events (variance = 0.0055). Then, based on a 24 h complementary test (video sampling every 5 min), the sensitivity (85.91%) and precision (100%) of the accelerometer were assessed. Animals were exposed to an ABA-type experimental design: A1 and A2: complex enclosure; B: decreased complexity (each stage lasted 24 h). An increase in total activity (%) was revealed using the accelerometer (26.15 ± 1.50, 29.29 ± 2.25, and 35.36 ± 3.15, respectively). Similar activity levels were detected using video analysis. The results demonstrate that the use of the accelerometer is reliable to determine the activity. Considering that the zoo-housed lesser anteaters exhibit a cathemeral activity pattern, this study contributes to easily monitoring their activities and responses to different management procedures supporting welfare programs, as well as ex situ conservation.
Numerical Simulation Study of Aerodynamic Noise in High-Rise Buildings
Authors: Li Zhengnong , Li Jianan
Published: September 2022

In order to study the aerodynamic noise on the surfaces of high-rise buildings under the action of strong winds, this paper numerically simulated the sound pressure field on the surface of a high-rise building using the large-eddy simulation method combined with the acoustic analog method of FW-H (Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings) equation and obtained the intensity radiation distribution of sound pressure on the surface of the building to further identify the area with the maximum sound pressure intensity of the noise radiation and thus achieve the purpose of locating noise source. The accuracy of the numerical simulation results for aerodynamic noise obtained in this paper was then verified by comparing with the acoustic wind tunnel experimental results. The locations of noise source obtained by numerical simulation and acoustic wind tunnel experiment were in good agreement. The sound pressure intensity pulsation time course was measured by the acoustic wind tunnel experiment, and the noise sound pressure level spectrum of each part of the building surface was obtained by fast Fourier transform (FFT). Furthermore, the spectral characteristics of the noise sound pressure level were analyzed. The results of the sound pressure level spectrum of aerodynamic noise obtained from the numerical simulation were compared with the acoustic wind tunnel experimental results, which were found to be very similar. The analysis of the sound pressure level spectrum of aerodynamic noise on the building surface reveals that the numerical simulation results in the middle- and high-frequency bands of the spectrum are in good agreement with the acoustic wind tunnel experimental results, but there is a difference between those in the low-frequency bands and the acoustic wind tunnel experimental results. The microphone array used to locate the noise source in the acoustic wind tunnel was found to suffer non-eliminable measurement errors, which might be a potential reason for a reasonably slight difference between the experimental and numerical simulation results. The background noise in the low-frequency band of the acoustic wind tunnel sound pressure level spectrum was relatively large, while there was basically no background noise in the numerical simulation. This paper shows that the numerical simulation method combined with large-eddy simulation and acoustic analogy (FW-H) can calculate the aerodynamic noise intensity at various points on the surfaces of high-rise buildings and reasonably predict the location of sound source. In addition, the numerical simulation results are similar to the acoustic wind tunnel experimental results in most frequency bands.
Optimization and Performance Analysis of a Distributed Energy System Considering the Coordination of the Operational Strategy and the Fluctuation of Annual Hourly Load
Authors: Quan Xibin , Xie Hao , Wang Xinye , Zhang Jubing , Wei Jiayu , Zhang Zhicong , Liu Meijing
Published: September 2022

The operation strategies of a distributed energy system (DES) are usually proposed according to the electrical load (FEL) and the thermal load (FTL), which take the cooling/heating load or electric load as unique constraint conditions that result in a too high or too low equipment load rate. This paper proposes a new hybrid operation strategy (HOS) that takes the full utilization of natural gas and the minimization of power consumption from the power grid as constraints and coordinates the cooling/electricity ratio and heating/electricity ratio of buildings and equipment. In the optimization phase of a DES, an optimization method based on the discretization of the load is proposed to investigate the influence of the uncertainty of the load on the DES, which helps to avoid repeated load simulations and provides stronger adjustability by quoting the normal distribution function to obtain multiple sets of load data with different fluctuations. Further, a multi-objective optimization model combining the genetic algorithm (GA) and mixed integer linear programming algorithm (MILP) was established to find the optimal configuration of equipment capacities by comprehensively considering the annual total cost, carbon emissions, and energy efficiency of the DES. Finally, an office building example was used to validate the feasibility of the above theories and methods. Compared with the FEL and FTL, the HOS reduced the energy waste of the DES by 19.7% and 15.5%, respectively. Compared with using a typical daily load, using an annual hourly load to optimize the DES-HOS produced a better comprehensive performance and lower adverse impacts derived from load fluctuations.
Influence of Masonry Infill Wall Position and Openings in the Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Frames
Authors: Messaoudi Abdelghaffar , Chebili Rachid , Mohamed Hossameldeen , Rodrigues Hugo
Published: September 2022

It is now widely recognized that the masonry infill frame used in reinforced concrete structures (RC) greatly enhances both the rigidity and strength of the surrounding frame. The lateral loading behavior of this RC frame is different from the frame without infill, although the structural contribution of infill walls is discarded in many countries, including Algeria. This paper aims to focus on the effect of openings and the effect of changing the distribution of masonry panels on the global behavior of buildings. For this, a pushover analysis is carried out to evaluate the seismic performance and assess the behavior of infilled RC, and to study the results related to capacity curve, inter-story drift and energy. The results obtained show that the effect of the openings and changing of the distribution of masonry panels can drastically change the overall behavior of the structures regarding enhancing strength capacities and energy absorption. Noticeable remarks in terms of distributing masonry panels within a frame are observed and several recommendations concerning the present practice might be important to be considered.
Recent Advances in Flexible Resistive Random Access Memory
Authors: Tang Peng , Chen Junlong , Qiu Tian , Ning Honglong , Fu Xiao , Li Muyun , Xu Zuohui , Luo Dongxiang , Yao Rihui , Peng Junbiao
Published: September 2022

Flexible electronic devices have received great attention in the fields of foldable electronic devices, wearable electronic devices, displays, actuators, synaptic bionics and so on. Among them, high-performance flexible memory for information storage and processing is an important part. Due to its simple structure and non-volatile characteristics, flexible resistive random access memory (RRAM) is the most likely flexible memory to achieve full commercialization. At present, the minimum bending radius of flexible RRAM can reach 2 mm and the maximum ON/OFF ratio (storage window) can reach 108. However, there are some defects in reliability and durability. In the bending process, the cracks are the main cause of device failure. The charge trap sites provided by appropriate doping or the use of amorphous nanostructures can make the conductive filaments of flexible RRAM steadier. Flexible electrodes with high conductivity and flexible dielectric with stable storage properties are the main development directions of flexible RRAM materials in the future.
Improving the Reader’s Attention and Focus through an AI-Driven Interactive and User-Aware Virtual Assistant for Handheld Devices
Authors: Iannizzotto Giancarlo , Nucita Andrea , Lo Bello Lucia
Published: September 2022

This paper describes the design and development of an AI-driven, interactive and user-aware virtual assistant aimed at helping users to focus their attention on reading or attending to other long-lasting visual tasks. The proposed approach uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to analyze the orientation of the head and the gaze of the user’s eyes to estimate the level of attention during the task, as well as administer effective and balanced stimuli to correct significant deviations. The stimuli are provided by a graphical character (i.e., the virtual assistant), which is able to emulate face expressions, generate spoken messages and produce deictic visual cues to better involve the user and establish an effective, natural and enjoyable experience. The described virtual assistant is based on a modular architecture that can be scaled to support a wide range of applications, from virtual and blended collaborative spaces to mobile devices. In particular, this paper focuses on an application designed to integrate seamlessly into tablets and e-book readers to provide its services in mobility and exactly when and where needed.
Relationships between Mass Level of Allergenic Platanus acerifolia Protein 3 (Pla a3) and Redox Trace Elements in the Size-Resolved Particles in Shanghai Atmosphere
Authors: Lu Senlin , Ma Teng , Zhang Lu , Feng Yule , Zhou Shumin , Zhang Wei , Yonemochi Shinichi , Liu Xinchun , Ebere Enyoh Christian , Wang Weiqian , Wang Qingyue
Published: September 2022

Allergenic pollen protein can be released from pollen grains and suspended in the air to cause allergenic reactions. However, the allergenic protein and its relationship with redox trace elements in ambient size-resolved particles has not been reported. Ambient size-resolved particles in Shanghai’s atmosphere were sampled during the Platanus pollen season in the spring season of 2017. Planatus pollen protein 3 (Pla a3) and redox trace elements in the ambient particles were investigated and their relationship was analyzed. Our data demonstrated that the mass level of the Pla a3 in the size-resolved particles ranged from 0.41 ± 0.28 to 7.46 ± 2.23 pg/m3, and decreased with the size range. Mass concentrations (ppb) of crustal elements (Fe, Al, Ca, Mg, Na) in the size-resolved particles ranged from 20.11 ± 9.87 to 1126.22 ± 659.51, while trace elements (V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Cd, Cs, Ba, Pb) varied from 0.05 ± 0.03 to 57.53 ± 19.7. Mass levels of these trace elements decreased according to particle size. The Abundance of redox trace elements, including Fe (R2 = 0.82), Mn (R2 = 0.54), Cu (R2 = 0.61), Ba (R2 = 0.82), and Pb (R2 = 0.82) in the size-resolved particles was significantly related to that of Pla a3, and our data implied redox trace elements might take syngenetic effects on the allergenicity induced by Pla a3 protein.
Optimization of Spinal Reconstructions for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures to Prevent Proximal Junctional Complications: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Wong Chia-En , Hu Hsuan-Teh , Huang Yu-Heng , Huang Kuo-Yuan
Published: September 2022

The management strategies of thoracolumbar (TL) burst fractures include posterior, anterior, and combined approaches. However, the rigid constructs pose a risk of proximal junctional failure. In this study, we aim to systemically evaluate the biomechanical performance of different TL reconstruction constructs using finite element analysis. Furthermore, we investigate the motion and the stress on the proximal junctional level adjacent to the constructs. We used a T10-L3 finite element model and simulated L1 burst fracture. Reconstruction with posterior instrumentation (PI) alone (U2L2 and U1L1+(intermediate screw) and three-column spinal reconstruction (TCSR) constructs (U1L1+PMMA and U1L1+Cage) were compared. Long-segment PI resulted in greater global motion reduction compared to constructs with short-segment PI. TCSR constructs provided better stabilization in L1 compared to PI alone. Decreased intradiscal and intravertebral pressure in the proximal level were observed in U1L1+IS, U1L1+PMMA, and U1L1+Cage compared to U2L2. The stress and strain energy of the pedicle screws decreased when anterior reconstruction was performed in addition to PI. We showed that TCSR with anterior reconstruction and SSPI provided sufficient immobilization while offering additional advantages in the preservation of physiological motion, the decreased burden on the proximal junctional level, and lower risk of implant failure.
Quantification of Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors and Metabolites in Urine and Hair of Patients and Their Relatives
Authors: Lo Faro Alfredo Fabrizio , Tini Anastasio , Bambagiotti Giulia , Pirani Filippo , Faragalli Andrea , Carle Flavia , Pacella Elena , Ceka Artan , Moretti Marco , Gottardi Massimo , Lassandro Nicola Vito , Nicolai Michele , Lupidi Marco , Mariotti Cesare , Busardò Francesco Paolo , Carlier Jeremy
Published: September 2022

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) are prescription drugs also used in doping to dilute urine samples and tamper with urinalyses. Dorzolamide, brinzolamide, and acetazolamide are prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Detecting CAIs and their metabolites in biological samples is crucial to documenting misuse in doping. We quantified dorzolamide, brinzolamide, acetazolamide, and their metabolites in the urine and hair of 88 patients under treatment for ocular hypertension or glaucoma. Samples of the patients’ relatives were analyzed to assess potential for accidental exposure. After washing, 25 mg hair was incubated with an acidic buffer at 100 °C for 1 h. After cooling and centrifugation, the supernatant was analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Urine (100 μL) was diluted and centrifuged before UHPLC-MS/MS analysis. Run time was 8 min through a reverse-phase column with a mobile phase gradient. MS/MS analysis was performed in a multiple-reaction monitoring mode after positive electrospray ionization. Median urinary concentration was 245 ng/mL (IQR: 116.2–501 ng/mL) for dorzolamide, 81.1 ng/mL (IQR: 35.9–125.3 ng/mL) for N-deethyl-dorzolamide, 0.77 ng/mL (IQR: 0.64 ng/mL–0.84 ng/mL) for N-acetyl-dorzolamide, 38.9 ng/mL (IQR: 20.4–79.2 ng/mL) for brinzolamide, and 72.8 ng/mL (IQR: 20.7–437.3 ng/mL) for acetazolamide. Median hair concentration was 0.48 ng/mg (IQR: 0.1–0.98 ng/mg) for dorzolamide, 0.07 ng/mg (IQR: 0.06–0.08 ng/mg) for N-deethyl-dorzolamide, 0.40 ng/mL (IQR: 0.13–1.95 ng/mL) for brinzolamide. Acetazolamide was detected in only one hair sample. Dorzolamide and brinzolamide were detected in the urine of three and one relatives, respectively. Cutoff concentrations of urinary dorzolamide and brinzolamide are necessary to preclude false positives due to contamination or passive exposure. We reported the first concentrations of brinzolamide in hair.
Characterization of Poultry Litter Biochar and Activated Biochar as a Soil Amendment for Valorization
Authors: Katuwal Sheela , Ashworth Amanda , Rafsan Nur-Al-Sarah , Kolar Praveen
Published: September 2022

Biochar applications to soils may enhance soil quality, hydrological properties, and agronomic productivity. Modification of biochar by activation via introduction of heteroatoms at different pyrolysis conditions can alter physical and chemical characteristics, which may enhance soil properties, although the extent of this is unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the impacts of pyrolysis temperature (400, 500, 600, and 700 °C) on activated (activated with methanesulfonic acid) and unactivated biochar produced from poultry litter to identify optimum production conditions for end use as a soil amendment. Physical, chemical, and surface properties of biochars were determined using wet chemistry and spectroscopic analyses. Results showed that activation with methanesulfonic acid increased biochars’ oxygen content, while decreasing its point of zero charge and electrical conductivity. Conversion of raw poultry litter to activated and unactivated biochar increased concentration of P (3-fold), K (1.8-fold), Ca (3-fold), Mg (2.3-fold), and S (4.8-fold), with concentrations increasing with increasing temperatures (p < 0.05) except for C and N. Activated biochar had lower recovery of C and N, but greater water-holding capacity than unactivated biochar. Concentrations of NH4-N, NO3-N, and water-soluble P were greater in unactivated biochar (p < 0.05). Among all biochars, activated biochar produced at 400 °C had the lowest bulk density, total P, K, Ca, and Mg, and greatest water-holding capacity, water-soluble P, Ca, and Mg concentrations, thereby suggesting improved soil amendment characteristics and subsequent soil health under poultry litter biochars produced under these conditions.
Hemispheric Asymmetry of the Hand Motor Representations in Patients with Highly Malignant Brain Tumors: Implications for Surgery and Clinical Practice
Authors: Cargnelutti Elisa , Pauletto Giada , Ius Tamara , Verriello Lorenzo , Maieron Marta , Skrap Miran , Tomasino Barbara
Published: September 2022

We addressed both brain pre-surgical functional and neurophysiological aspects of the hand representation in 18 right-handed patients harboring a highly malignant brain tumor in the sensorimotor (SM) cortex (10 in the left hemisphere, LH, and 8 in the right hemisphere, RH) and 10 healthy controls, who performed an fMRI hand-clenching task with both hands alternatively. We extracted the main ROI in the SM cortex and compared ROI values and volumes between hemispheres and groups, in addition to their motor neurophysiological measures. Hemispheric asymmetry in the fMRI signal was observed for healthy controls, namely higher signal for the left-hand movements, but not for either patients’ groups. ROI values, although altered in patients vs. controls, did not differ significantly between groups. ROI volumes associated with right-hand movement were lower for both patients’ groups vs. controls, and those associated with left-hand movement were lower in the RH group vs. all groups. These results are relevant to interpret potential preoperative plasticity and make inferences about postoperative plasticity and can be integrated in the surgical planning to increase surgery success and postoperative prognosis and quality of life.
Rain Intrusion through Horizontal Joints in Façade Panel Systems—Experimental Investigation
Authors: Støver Eva Armstrong , Sundsøy Marte Haugen , Andenæs Erlend , Geving Stig , Kvande Tore
Published: September 2022

Façade panel systems with horizontal open joints are commonly used on larger buildings in Nordic countries. Excessive water intrusion through open joints may cause deterioration of the façade, a concern exacerbated by climate change. Previous studies have shown that current design recommendations for open-joint façade panel systems may not be optimal to prevent water intrusion. It is therefore of interest to investigate the watertightness of different design solutions for horizontal joints to inform recommendations for more durable façades. Large-scale measurements are conducted in a driving rain apparatus. Façade panel systems with different joint solutions are tested according to NS-EN 1027:2016. In total, 72 unique tests are conducted, investigating the impact of the four parameters: panel types, joint widths, joint profiles, and bevelled joint designs. All designs performed differently for the different types of panels, making it difficult to draw general conclusions. Smooth panels consistently exhibit higher water intrusion rates than rough panels, because runoff concentrates in streams on a smooth surface, causing localized, great intrusion in the horizontal joints. Modifications of the joints or the insertion of aluminium profiles may reduce or increase water intrusion. The most watertight among the investigated solutions involves an h-shaped profile. Bevelled joints improve overall watertightness but may direct more water towards the wind barrier. For open joints, a narrower joint width was found to decrease water intrusion to the wind barrier. In general, a barrier is needed to protect the joints against water intrusion. However, the effectiveness of protection measures depends on their design and mounting. Some protection measures led to greater water intrusion than no barrier at all.
Influencing Factors of Human Errors in Metro Construction Based on Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)
Authors: Shi Xiaobo , Liu Yan , Zhang Dongyan , Li Ruixu , Qiao Yaning , Opoku Alex , Cui Caiyun
Published: September 2022

Safety problems in metro construction occur frequently, causing substantial economic losses and even resulting in injuries and fatalities. Studies have shown that human errors, which are usually caused by complex reasons, are an important cause of safety related accidents. However, little research has analyzed the causes of accidents from the perspective of human errors. To explore the factors influencing human errors, the factors were systematically sorted out and studied based on theoretical analysis. Firstly, the theoretical hypothesis and model were formulated through a literature review. Secondly, the scale was developed for mental factors, physical factors, technical factors, environmental factors, organizational factors, cultural factors, and human errors. Thirdly, the research data were obtained by distributing questionnaires, and the validity and reliability tests were conducted using the data and the structural equation model was tested and run. Finally, the theoretical hypotheses were tested using the structural equation models and came up with the paths of the six factors of human errors. The results of the study showed that mental factors, physiological factors, and technological factors are found to be the direct influencing factors of human errors. However, environmental and cultural factors are the indirect influencing factors. The influencing paths are environment-mental-human errors, environment-physiological-human errors, culture-physiological-human errors, and culture-technology-human errors. Organizational factors can affect human errors directly or indirectly through cultural factors. These findings could provide practical implications for reducing the safety related accidents caused by human errors during metro construction.
Fragility Analysis of Wind-Induced Collapse of a Transmission Tower Considering Corrosion
Authors: Liu Chuncheng , Yan Zhao
Published: September 2022

To investigate the variation law of the wind-resistant performance of transmission towers during their operation, this paper proposes an evaluation method for the wind resistance of the transmission tower considering corrosion, and a 220-kV transmission tower is analyzed as an example. Considering the uncertainty of the material and geometric parameters, the wind-induced collapse of the transmission tower was analyzed, and the collapse wind speeds were obtained via pushover and incremental dynamic analyses. In addition, the sensitivity of the transmission tower to various parameters was analyzed. Based on the existing meteorological and corrosion data, corrosion prediction models were established using a back-propagation (BP) artificial neural network, and the mean relative error between the predicted and measured values of the test samples was 8.91%. On this basis, the corrosion depth of the tower members in the four regions was predicted, and the fragility of the transmission tower was analyzed considering the effects of corrosion and strong winds. The results show that the collapse wind speed of the transmission tower is most significantly affected by the thickness of the angle steel, followed by the elastic modulus and yield strength, and is less affected by the width of the angle steel. When the exposure time was 25 years, the wind-resistant performance of transmission towers in regions with severe acid rain and coastal industrial regions decreased by 10% to 20%. With an increase in exposure time, the failure mode of the transmission tower tended to be brittle failure.
Therapeutic Drug-Induced Metabolic Reprogramming in Glioblastoma
Authors: Nguyen Trang T. T. , Shang Enyuan , Westhoff Mike-Andrew , Karpel-Massler Georg , Siegelin Markus D.
Published: September 2022

Glioblastoma WHO IV (GBM), the most common primary brain tumor in adults, is a heterogenous malignancy that displays a reprogrammed metabolism with various fuel sources at its disposal. Tumor cells primarily appear to consume glucose to entertain their anabolic and catabolic metabolism. While less effective for energy production, aerobic glycolysis (Warburg effect) is an effective means to drive biosynthesis of critical molecules required for relentless growth and resistance to cell death. Targeting the Warburg effect may be an effective venue for cancer treatment. However, past and recent evidence highlight that this approach may be limited in scope because GBM cells possess metabolic plasticity that allows them to harness other substrates, which include but are not limited to, fatty acids, amino acids, lactate, and acetate. Here, we review recent key findings in the literature that highlight that GBM cells substantially reprogram their metabolism upon therapy. These studies suggest that blocking glycolysis will yield a concomitant reactivation of oxidative energy pathways and most dominantly beta-oxidation of fatty acids.
Ethnic Disparities in the Management of Pediatric Subcutaneous Abscesses
Authors: Clark Rachael A. , Garcia Isabel C. , Jacobson Jillian C. , Chung Dai H.
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: Significant racial and ethnic disparities affect access to pediatric Emergency Department (ED) and surgical care across the United States. The present study sought to assess the role of racial and ethnic disparities in the management of pediatric subcutaneous abscesses. (2) Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed including ED visits for subcutaneous abscesses in patients < 18 years of age, over a 12-month period. The effects of self-reported ethnicity (Hispanic versus non-Hispanic) and race (Hispanic, Black, Caucasian and Asian) on the diagnosis and management of subcutaneous abscesses were analyzed. (3) Results: 192 patients were identified with an average age of 4.7 ± 5.3 years and 43.8% identified as Hispanic. Non-Hispanic patients were significantly more likely to receive treatment of their SSTI prior to the ED and to be admitted, compared to Hispanic patients. There was no difference in bedside versus operating room incision and drainage (I&D); however, significantly more non-Hispanic patients received procedural sedation for bedside I&D compared to Hispanic patients. There were no differences in outcomes such as recurrence or re-admission based on ethnicity or race. (4) Conclusions: Ethnic and racial disparities exist in the management of subcutaneous abscesses in the United States. Further studies are needed to address the systemic causes of these disparities such as access to tertiary healthcare facilities and systems-based analyses of unconscious bias in healthcare.
Co-Rooming Accounts for Socioeconomic Disparities in Infant Sleep Quality among Families Living in Urban Environments
Authors: Finkel Morgan A. , Troller-Renfree Sonya V. , Meyer Jerrold S. , Noble Kimberly G.
Published: September 2022

Poor infant sleep quality is associated with negative maternal and infant health outcomes. This study measures socioeconomic disparities in infant sleep quality, and assesses whether child sleep location and maternal stress mediate associations between socioeconomic status (SES) and infant sleep quality. The study includes 86 socioeconomically diverse, mother-infant dyads living in an urban area with infants aged 6–12 months. Mothers reported socioeconomic demographics, infant sleep quality (Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire) and maternal subjective stress (Perceived Stress Scale). Maternal objective stress was measured via hair cortisol concentration (HCC). The associations among SES, infant sleep quality, infant co-rooming, and maternal stress were assessed. Infants from families with lower income-to-needs (ITN) ratios had poorer infant sleep quality. The association between familial ITN and infant sleep quality was mediated by whether the child co-rooms with parents. Maternal perceived stress was independently associated with infant sleep quality, but HCC was not associated with infant sleep quality.
A Music Therapy Intervention for Refugee Children and Adolescents in Schools: A Process Evaluation Using a Mixed Method Design
Authors: Heynen Evelyn , Bruls Vivian , van Goor Sander , Pat-El Ron , Schoot Tineke , van Hooren Susan
Published: September 2022

Refugee children and adolescents have often experienced negative or traumatic events, which are associated with stress and mental health problems. A specific music therapy intervention is developed for this group in school settings. The aim of the present study was to set the first steps in the implementation of this intervention. A process evaluation was performed using a mixed method design among refugee children and adolescents (6–17 years) at three different schools in the Netherlands. Interviews were conducted with teachers and music therapists before, at the midpoint, and after the intervention. At these moments, children completed a classroom climate questionnaire and a visual analogue scale on affect. The results indicate that the intervention strengthens the process of social connectedness, resulting in a “sense of belonging”. The intervention may stimulate inclusiveness and cultural sensitivity, and may contribute to a safe environment and the ability of teachers to adapt to the specific needs of refugee children. Refugee children and adolescents showed a decrease of negative affect during the intervention. When implementing the intervention in schools, it is important to take into account the initial situation, the prerequisites for the intervention, the professional competence, the experience of music therapists, and the collaboration and communication between the professionals involved.
Congenital Surfactant C Deficiency with Pulmonary Hypertension—A Case Report
Authors: Chua Wei , Chen I-Chen , Liu Yi-Ching , Wu Yen-Hsien , Lo Shih-Hsing , Hsu Jong-Hau , Liang Peir-In , Chen Hsiu-Lin , Dai Zen-Kong
Published: September 2022

Interstitial lung diseases in children are a diverse group in terms of etiology and pathogenesis. With advances in genetic testing, mutations in surfactant protein have now been identified as the etiology for childhood interstitial lung disease of variable onset and severity, ranging from fatal acute respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in neonates to chronic lung disease in adults. We presented an 11-month-old girl with surfactant protein C deficiency and secondary pulmonary hypertension, successfully treated with hydroxychloroquine, and provided a detailed discussion of the clinical and diagnostic approach and management.
Handwriting and Motor-Related Daily Performance among Adolescents with Dysgraphia and Their Impact on Physical Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Hen-Herbst Liat , Rosenblum Sara
Published: September 2022

Knowledge is limited about dysgraphia in adolescence and its association with daily motor-related daily performance and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). This study aimed to (1) compare and (2) examine correlations between handwriting measures, motor-related daily performance, and HRQOL of adolescents with and without dysgraphia and (3) examine the contribution of motor-related daily performance and handwriting measures to predict their physical HRQOL. There were eighty adolescents (13–18 yr): half with dysgraphia and half matched controls without dysgraphia per the Handwriting Proficiency Screening Questionnaire and Handwriting Legibility Scale participated. They copied a paragraph script onto a paper attached to the Computerized Penmanship Evaluation Tool digitizer and completed the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire-brief version and the Adult Developmental Coordination Disorder Checklist (ADC). We found significant between-group differences in motor-related daily performance, handwriting measures, and HRQOL and significant correlations between HRQOL and handwriting process measures and motor-coordination ability. Handwriting measures predicted 25%, and the ADC A and C subscales 45.6%, of the research group’s physical QOL domain score variability. Notably, the control group’s current perceptions of their motor-coordination performance (ADC-C) predicted 36.5% of the variance in physical QOL. Dysgraphia’s negative effects during childhood and adolescence may reduce adolescents’ HRQOL now and into adulthood.