bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Papaya Fruit Processing as Meat Tenderizer in Ponggok Village, Blitar
Authors: Juwita Ratna
Published: October 2023

Papaya is one of the largest commodities in Ponggok Village, Blitar Regency. However, the papaya is only sold and consumed as a fresh fruit. Papaya sap contains protease enzymes (protein decomposers), papain and chymopapain, that can hydrolyze proteins. This protease enzyme is a key factor in increasing protein digestibility and absorption, which in turn affects growth of tissue fibers in meat. These two enzymes can break down the bonds in protein molecules into polypeptides and dipeptides. The purpose of this activity is to provide training on making papain enzymes from papaya fruit. The papain enzyme is used as a meat tenderizer. The target of the training participants was thirty people with the target being PKK women who were members of the Ponggok village farmer group. The method in this training uses the stages of preparation, implementation and evaluation. The survey results show that papaya fruit has not been utilized optimally in Ponggok Village, so it is important to hold training on making papain enzyme from papaya fruit.
Engineering parthenocarpic fruit production in tomato
Authors: Ori Naomi , Reed Jason W. ,   Universiṭah ha-ʻIvrit bi-Yerushalayim,   United States-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund
Published: October 2023

Normally, fruits are formed only following fertilization. In tomato, fertilization is sensitive to extreme temperatures, resulting in reduced yield. Yield stability would therefore benefit from tomato varieties with parthenocarpic fruits, which develop independently of fertilization. The objective of the research was to generate parthenocarpic tomato lines by mutating PRC2 components, to investigate how PRC2 and auxin signaling regulate fruit initiation and growth, and to generate parthenocarpic lines for breeding. We reasoned that heterozygous prc2 mutations would generate parthenocarpic fruits with minimal vegetative effects, as they act in the female gametophyte. The specific objectives were : To generate (1) tomato PRC2 mutants and characterize them developmentally (2) and molecularly (3), and to test their performance in the field (4). Aim 1 proved challenging, and was achieved only during the third year. Therefore the research was extended for an additional 8 months, during which goals 2 and 4 were achieved. The research yielded mutations in 4 different PRC2 components, two of which were loss-of-function mutations that produced parthenocarpic fruits, Slfie and Slmsi1 mutants. Characterization of heterozygote Slfie mutants showed that they produce fruits independently of fertilization across a range of growth conditions. No homozygote Slfie mutants were obtained, likely due to failure of the mutant allele to transfer via the female gametopyte. Slfie/+ fruits were of good quality in contrast to most previously described parthenocarpic fruits. Initial characterization under heat stress showed a dramatic increase in yield under extreme heat, therefore providing yield stability. In addition, we characterized single and double mutants in tomato SlARF8a and SlARF8b, and found that these also gave plants with parthenocarpic fruit growth and increased yield stability. The research yielded genetic material that can be used in breeding programs to increase yield stability under unstable climate
A Corpus-based Study on Chunk-Explicitation in Interpreting: A Case Study of Chinese Leaders’ Speeches under the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: WANG Zhengxiao , Xinxin WU
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the phenomenon of chunk explicitation in Chinese-English diplomatic interpretation during the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on high-frequency chunks employed by prominent national leaders, including General Secretary Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang, and State Councilor Wang Yi. The research utilizes monolingual corpus analysis and AntConc software to analyze six actual speech interpretations. It categorizes explicitation into four types: obligatory, optional, pragmatic, and translation-inherent explicitation. The study identifies three main motivations behind chunk explicitation in diplomatic interpretation: linguistic motivations stemming from syntactic and grammatical differences, cultural motivations arising from bridging cultural gaps, and interpreter motivations related to conveying information effectively. Additionally, the research assesses the implications of explicitation, including its impact on clarity, comprehensibility, and its role in conveying emotions and tone in diplomatic speeches. Chunk explicitation is a common phenomenon in Chinese-English diplomatic interpretation during the pandemic. It serves linguistic, cultural, and interpreter motivations, enhancing clarity and conveying emotions in diplomatic communication. The study contributes to diplomatic interpretation and provides practical guidance for interpreting learners and practitioners. Future research may expand the scope and classification of interpretation types, further advancing our understanding of this complex process. Ultimately, this research aids in promoting effective diplomatic communication and global understanding during crises.
Cloud Computing Analysis of Hybrid Networks on Raspberry
Authors: Liza Risko , Fitriana Liza , Junaidi Junaidi , Siddiq Daffa Maulana
Published: October 2023

There are already a lot of cloud services on the internet which provide services, some of them even provide free facilities, but they are still limited in usage and capacity. Capacity is calculated based on saved files, temporary files, and even trash files. Moreover, data security cannot be guaranteed because the hardware is not properly set or owned by someone else. The cloud used cannot guarantee the connection and the bandwidth. The stigma of building cloud computing revolves around huge costs, not limited to operational and maintenance costs, nor the proper location for the cloud network equipment. As an effort to build data storage with large capacity, bandwidth regulation, and data protection, which is located in a private location, building a cloud computing service system which is efficient in time, cost, and place, and has good performance is no longer an impossible thing to do. With the help of Microcontroller technology, Raspberry Pi, a Cloud Computing with a Hybrid network could be built to reduce cost, time and space for the system. With the NextCloud application embedded into the cloud computing server, performance can be improved, including easy data synchronization that will flawlessly operate as a Client Server on a wide variety of today’s devices with examples being PCs, Tablets, Notebooks or Smartphones.
Family Planning: disclosing contributions from Problem Solving to Worker-Students’ Financial Education
Authors: Oliveira Sonia Mara dos Santos , Viana Marger da Conceição Ventura
Published: October 2023

Conflicting situations between what one wants to acquire and the limit imposed by financial resources require financial planning. The current study presents an excerpt of a Master's research in Mathematics Education, based on qualitative approach, whose goal was to disclose contributions from Problem Solving, according to the Problem Solving methodology, to the Financial Education of a group of worker-students enrolled in the 1st year of a public night-shift High School. Observation, field journal, documentary records of assignments involving family planning and questionnaires were used for data collection purposes. Based on the analyses,  Problem Solving, in the way it was organized – i.e., involves personal and family financial planning- enabled contributing to participants’ Financial Education, which would be in compliance with their social and financial reality, and allowed them to exercise citizenship.
Cumhuriyetin 100. Yılında Uygulanan Nüfus Politikaları ve Demografik Değişim Süreci
Authors: YADİGAROĞLU Hüseyin
Published: October 2023

Rasyonelleşme, sekülerleşme ve sanayiye dayalı üretim ile birlikte oluşan ulus devlet formu, demografik yapı ve bu yapının nesnel ve sosyal niteliklerini daha da önemli hale getirmiştir. Buna bağlı olarak nüfus yapısı, siyaset kurumunun temel konusu haline gelmiştir. Günümüzde refah devleti uygulamaları, gelişmiş sağlık imkânları ve modern dünyanın insanlara sunduğu yaşam koşulları dünya nüfusunu hızla artırmaktadır. Ayrıca başta göç olmak üzere eğitim ve turizm gibi aktiviteler ve ulaşım teknolojisinin hız ve konfor imkânlarıyla birlikte dünya nüfusu hareket halindedir. Bu bağlamda eğitim, sağlık, barınma, yoksulluğun önlenmesi ve üretimin sürdürülmesi gibi hedefler siyaset kurumunun temel konuları olmuştur. Bu çalışmada demografik yapının boyutları ve nüfus artışı veya azalışına neden olan politikalar ve bu politikalara dayalı olarak şekillenen demografik tutum ve değişim süreçleri tartışılmaktadır. Cumhuriyet’in ilanından günümüze kadar uygulanan nüfus politikaları ve bu politikalara bağlı olarak demografik yapıda görülen değişiklikler çalışmanın konusudur. Cumhuriyetin bir asırlık tarihinde uygulanan nüfus politikaları ve bu politikaların siyasi ve sosyal sebepleri ve sonuçlarını irdeleme amacı taşıyan bu çalışmada dokümantasyon yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Çalışmanın araştırma sorusu: Cumhuriyet’in 100 yıllık tarihinde hangi nüfus politikalar uygulanmış ve bir asırlık süreçte demografik değişim süreci nasıl bir seyir izlemiştir? Bu bağlamda Cumhuriyet tarihi boyunca yapılan genel nüfus sayımları ve sayımlardan elde edilen demografik veriler ilgili kurumların (Türkiye İstatistik Kurumu, Resmi Gazeteler, Devlet Planlama Teşkilatı vb.) rapor ve yayımlarından yararlanılmıştır. Kurtuluş Savaşı’ndan çıkmış Gazi Milletin hem nicelik (toplam nüfus sayısı) hem de nitelik (eğitim durumu vb.) olarak yara aldığı bir gerçektir. Bu sebeple Cumhuriyetin ilk yıllarında nüfusu artırmaya yönelik politikalar yürütülmüştür. Bekârlık vergisi uygulaması bunun en somut örneğidir. 1960 yıllardan sonra ise kalkınma planlarında doğum kontrolü ve aile planlaması gündeme gelmiştir. Artan nüfusun ekonomik ve sosyal kalkınma üzerinde baskı yarattığı düşüncesiyle nüfus artış hızı düşürülmeye çalışılmıştır. 2000’li yıllardan sonra – özellikle 2008 sonrasında – nüfusu artırmaya yönelik politikalar yürütüldüğü anlaşılmıştır. Sonuç olarak, Cumhuriyet dönemi nüfus politikaları 1963’e kadar nüfus artırmaya yönelik (pronatalist politika), 1963’ten 2000’li yıllara kadar aile planlaması ve nüfus kontrolünün olduğu (anti-natalist politika) dönem ve 2000’li yıllardan sonra nüfusu artırmaya yönelik politikalar yürütülmüştür
Termal Sağlık Turizminde Hizmet Kalitesi, Destinasyon İmajı, Yeniden Ziyaret Niyeti ve Destinasyona Güven Arasındaki Yapısal İlişkilerin Tespit Edilmesi
Authors: YALMAN Fuat
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışmanın amacı, termal sağlık turizminde hizmet kalitesi, destinasyon imajı, yeniden ziyaret niyeti ve destinasyona güven arasındaki yapısal ilişkileri tespit etmektir. Araştırmanın evrenini Bursa ilinde faaliyet gösteren Sağlık Bakanlığı kaplıca işletme ruhsatlı termal tesislerden termal sağlık turizmi hizmeti almış olan ve sosyal medya kanalıyla (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Web Siteleri, Bloglar) ulaşılan turistler oluşturmuştur. Örneklem grubunu ise sosyal medya adreslerinden (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Web Siteler, Bloglar) ulaşılan 400 turist oluşturmuştur. Araştırma kapsamında veri setinin analizi için IBM SPSS 23 ve AMOS istatistiksel analiz programları birlikte kullanılmıştır. Hizmet kalitesi ile yeniden ziyaret niyeti arasında yüksek düzeyde pozitif yönlü bir ilişki düzeyi vardır ve ilişki derecesi 0,421’dir. Hizmet kalitesi ile destinasyona güven arasında yüksek düzeyde pozitif yönlü bir ilişki düzeyi vardır ve ilişki derecesi 0,396’dır. Hizmet kalitesi ile destinasyon imajı arasında yüksek düzeyde pozitif yönlü bir ilişki düzeyi vardır ve ilişki derecesi 0,369’dur. Yeniden ziyaret niyeti ile destinasyona güven arasında yüksek düzeyde pozitif yönlü bir ilişki düzeyi vardır ve ilişki derecesi 0,938’dir. Destinasyon imajı ile yeniden ziyaret niyeti arasında yüksek düzeyde pozitif yönlü bir ilişki düzeyi vardır ve ilişki derecesi 0,955’dir. Destinasyon imajı ile destinasyona güven arasında yüksek düzeyde pozitif yönlü bir ilişki düzeyi vardır ve ilişki derecesi 0,857’dir. Yani değişkenlerden biri artarken diğeri de artmaktadır.
Üniversite Öğrencilerinin Siyasete Olan İlgi ve Yaklaşımlarını Ölçmeye Yönelik Bir Araştırma
Authors: TURAN Abdullah
Published: October 2023

Siyasal katılım sağlamak ve bu hususlara ilgi duymak demokrasinin işletilebilmesi açısından çok önemlidir. Ancak özellikle 1980 darbesi sonrası süreçte yaşanan olaylar toplumu ciddi anlamda bu tür bir yaklaşımdan uzaklaştırmıştır. Üniversite öğrencileri ise yakın zamanda ülkenin yönetimini devralacak bir pozisyonda iken siyasete ilgisiz olmaları, katılım sağlamamaları ülkenin geleceği açısından zararlı sonuçlar yaratabilir. Bu çalışma “üniversite öğrencilerinin siyasete olan ilgi ve yaklaşımlarını ortaya çıkarmayı” amaçlamaktadır. Bu çerçevede öğrencilere demografik durumlarını ve siyasi ilgi ve yaklaşımlarını tespit edebilmek için toplamda 10 soru ve 27 önerme yöneltilmiştir. Aksaray Üniversitesi Ortaköy MYO öğrencileri örneklemi dikkate alınarak gerçekleştirilen bu çalışmada online olarak uygulanan ankete 208 kişi katılmıştır. Elde edilen verilerin IBM SPSS (23.versiyon) istatistik programında dağılımları (frequencies, descriptives gibi) ortaya konulmuş, öğrencilerin mevcut katılım durumları üzerinden yorumlar yapılmış ve çapraz tablolar (crasstabs) aracılığıyla da veriler kullanılarak yorumlanmıştır. Mevcut bulgulara dayalı olarak “kadın, yaşı büyük olan, sosyal programlarda okuyan, geliri az olan, büyük yerlerde ikamet eden, siyasi kitaplar okuyan, ailesi siyasete daha ilgili olan, haberleri takip eden, oy kullanmaya istekli olan ve hakkını arayan” öğrencilerin siyasete daha ilgili olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Determining the safety and efficacy of dietary supplementation with 3ˊ-sialyllactose or 6ˊ-sialyllactose on growth, tolerance, and brain sialic acid concentrations
Authors: Golden Rebecca K. , Sutkus Loretta T. , Bauer Laura L. , Donovan Sharon M. , Dilger Ryan N.
Published: October 2023

Sialylated oligosaccharides, including 3ˊ-sialyllactose (3ˊ-SL) and 6ˊ-sialyllactose (6ˊ-SL), comprise a large portion of human milk and have been known to support development over the first year of life. While research has investigated the impact of early-life supplementation, longer-term supplementation remains relatively unexplored. Consequently, the following study assesses the impact of supplementation of either 3ˊ-SL or 6ˊ-SL on growth performance, tolerance, and brain sialic acid concentrations. Two-day-old piglets (n = 75) were randomly assigned to a commercial milk replacer ad libitum without or with 3ˊ-SL or 6ˊ-SL (added at 0.2673% on an as-is basis). Daily body weight and feed disappearance were recorded to assess growth performance and tolerance. Pigs were euthanized for sample collection on postnatal day 33 (n = 30) or 61 (n = 33), respectively. Across growth performance, clinical chemistry and hematology, histomorphology, and sialic acid quantification, dietary differences were largely unremarkable at either time-point. Overall, SA was well-tolerated both short-term and long-term.
Electromechanical Actuator-Based Solution for a Scissor Lift
Authors: Stawiński Łukasz , Zakharov Viacheslav , Kosucki Andrzej , Minav Tatiana
Published: October 2023

Electrification and hybridization in non-road mobile machinery have attracted considerable attention in recent years. Normally, these green solutions concentrate on drivetrains, slowly penetrating to the implements or, as they are commonly known, working hydraulics. The primary difficulties associated with drivetrains were successfully addressed through the implementation of electric solutions and the utilization of hydraulic configurations. However, existing hydraulics solutions are typically challenged by innovative pure electromechanical solutions to perform the same work. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to illustrate the impact of replacing a conventional hydraulic topology with an electromechanical actuator (EMA) solution. This paper presents a case study of the electrification of a scissor lift, which was evaluated by simulation and experimental works from an energy perspective. The simulation study demonstrated the energy consumption and power requirements in conventional hydraulic (i.e., non-efficient in comparison with advanced systems) and EMA-based topologies for a single lifting cycle. Finally, an average of 35–50% of the consumed energy was saved, which is confirmed based on a completed simulation study case for the scissor lift application.
Effects of Dietary Betaine on the Laying Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Uterus and Ovary Function of Laying Hens at the Late Stage of Production
Authors: Guo Feng , Jing Mengna , Zhang Aaoyu , Yi Jinfan , Zhang Yanhong
Published: October 2023

Betaine has been found to alleviate oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. However, whether dietary betaine can protect late-laying hens against these adverse effects is unknown. Here, 270 65-week-old Jinghong-1 laying hens were randomly divided into the Control, 0.1% Betaine, and 0.5% Betaine groups and fed a basal diet, 0.1%, and 0.5% betaine supplemented diet, respectively. The trial lasted for seven weeks. Birds that consumed 0.5% betaine laid more eggs with thicker eggshells. Accordingly, uterine reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and ovarian superoxide dismutase (SOD) contents were increased. The uterine calcium ion content and the mRNA expression of ovalbumin, ovotransferrin, and carbonic anhydrase two were increased. Moreover, ovarian IL-1β, Caspase-1, Caspase-8, and Caspase-9 mRNA expressions were decreased; luteinising hormone receptor (LHR) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor mRNA expressions were increased. Furthermore, dietary betaine decreased the ovaries’ mRNA expression of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT)1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b. The methylation level at the promoter region of ovarian LHR decreased. These results indicated that dietary betaine consumption with a concentration of 0.5% could increase the laying rate and the eggshell thickness during the late-laying period. The underlying mechanism may include antioxidative, anti-apoptosis, and hormone-sensitivity-enhancing properties.
Harnessing Genomics and Transcriptomics Approaches to Improve Female Fertility in Beef Cattle—A Review
Authors: Kertz Nicholas C. , Banerjee Priyanka , Dyce Paul W. , Diniz Wellison J. S.
Published: October 2023

Female fertility is the foundation of the cow–calf industry, impacting both efficiency and profitability. Reproductive failure is the primary reason why beef cows are sold in the U.S. and the cause of an estimated annual gross loss of USD 2.8 billion. In this review, we discuss the status of the genomics, transcriptomics, and systems genomics approaches currently applied to female fertility and the tools available to cow–calf producers to maximize genetic progress. We highlight the opportunities and limitations associated with using genomic and transcriptomic approaches to discover genes and regulatory mechanisms related to beef fertility. Considering the complex nature of fertility, significant advances in precision breeding will rely on holistic, multidisciplinary approaches to further advance our ability to understand, predict, and improve reproductive performance. While these technologies have advanced our knowledge, the next step is to translate research findings from bench to on-farm applications.
In Vitro Activity of Quaternary Ammonium in Prototheca Isolated from Clinical Bovine Mastitis Identified by Mass Spectrometry and PCR Sequencing of the cytb Gene Marker
Authors: Arabe Filho Marcelo Fagali , Jagielski Tomasz , Proskurnicka Angelika , Santos Marcos Veiga dos , Fidelis Carlos Eduardo , Guimarães Felipe Freitas , Guerra Simony Trevizan , Joaquim Sâmea Fernandes , Mioni Mateus de Souza Ribeiro , Pantoja José Carlos de Figueiredo , Langoni Helio , Sanchez Luísa Fernanda García , Ribeiro Marcio Garcia
Published: October 2023

The in vitro algaecide activity of quaternary ammonium (QA) against Prototheca isolated from bovine clinical mastitis was investigated, in which the clinical severity was scored, milk samples were subjected to microbiological culture, and algal species were identified by molecular typing. A total of 4275 milk clinical samples of different cows from ten large dairy farms were used. Forty-four (1%) samples of cows from three dairy farms yielded growth of Prototheca, of which 88.6% (39/44) were identified as Prototheca bovis and 11.3% (5/44) as Prototheca sp. by MALDI-TOF MS, whereas 100% of the isolates were identified as P. bovis using PCR sequencing of the cytb gene. Among cows for which clinical severity scoring was available, 78.8% (26/33) and 21.2% (7/33) had mild and moderate infections, respectively, whereas no animal showed severe clinical signs. The algaecide activity of QA in Prototheca was observed in low concentrations among all isolates, in 20.4% (9/44) at 35 ppm, 36.4% (16/44) at 17 ppm, and 43.2% (19/44) at an 8 ppm, in addition to activity on three reference Prototheca strains. Overall, the study highlights the predominance of P. bovis as the causative agent of algal mastitis in bovines. Prototheca induced abnormalities preponderantly in the milk and mammary gland tissue of cows, and to our knowledge, our study is the first to apply clinical severity scoring in protothecal mastitis. In addition, the study underlines the activity of QA in low concentrations against Prototheca, indicating its potential use as an antiseptic/disinfectant in milking facilities and dairy environments.
Geographic Variation in Testicular Morphometrics, Androgen Receptor Expression and Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels in the Intermediate Roundleaf Bats across Distinct Regions in Thailand
Authors: Srisuwatanasagul Kongkiat , Panyaboriban Saritvich , Karapan Sunate , Wittayarat Manita , Srisuwatanasagul Sayamon
Published: October 2023

The hipposideros larvatus (intermediate roundleaf bat) is one of the insectivorous bats which has an agro-ecological role as a controller of the insect population. The reproductive patterns of H. larvatus are intricately linked to its ecological role and survival. An understanding of the testicular morphology can contribute to conservation for this species particularly in areas where its populations might be declining or under threat. However, these bats may also be associated with zoonotic diseases which can have significant public health implications. The aims of the study were to examine the morphological data as well as the expression of the androgen receptor (AR) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in the male reproductive organs of H. larvatus from different areas of Thailand and at different sampling periods. Their testes were processed for histological investigation and immunohistochemistry for AR and AMH. The results showed differences among the various sampling areas and different sampling periods, which suggested seasonal breeding characteristics. The higher testicular morphometric data were observed in H. larvatus from the Dong Phayayen (DY) and Chiang Dao (CD) areas during June, while the size of seminiferous tubules decreased thereafter. High AR immunostaining was noticed when the testicular morphometric data were higher in DY bats during June. On the other hand, low AR was observed in bats during August and September, which was concomitant with the decreases in seminiferous tubule size and germinal epithelial height. The results suggest a potential correlation between AR immunostaining and the active phase of testicular functions in H. larvatus during June which may imply the involvement of AR with the enhancement of testicular activity. Conversely, the low expression of AR may contribute to the upregulation of AMH in the testes and may indicate lower testicular activity in H. larvatus in Thailand.
Identification of Lipids and Cytokines in Plasma and Follicular Fluid before and after Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Stimulation as Potential Markers for Follicular Maturation in Cattle
Authors: Snider Alexandria P. , Gomes Renata S. , Summers Adam F. , Tenley Sarah C. , Abedal-Majed Mohamed A. , McFee Renee M. , Wood Jennifer R. , Davis John S. , Cupp Andrea S.
Published: October 2023

The process of follicle maturation leading to ovulation is a key milestone in female fertility. It is known that circulating lipids and cytokines play a role in the follicle’s ability to go through follicular maturation and the ovulatory processes. However, the specific mechanisms are not well understood. We posit that dysregulation of granulosa cells influences the ovarian environment, which tries to adapt by changing released lipids and cytokines to achieve follicular maturation. Eleven non-lactating adult females underwent estrus synchronization with two injections of PGF2α 14 days apart. Daily blood samples were collected for 28 days to monitor steroid hormone production after the second injection. To understand the potential impacts of lipids and cytokines during ovulation, a low-dose FSH stimulation (FSHLow) was performed after resynchronization of cows, and daily blood samples were collected for 14 days to monitor steroid hormone production until ovariectomies. The lipidomic analysis demonstrated increased circulating diacylglycerides and triacylglycerides during the mid-luteal phase and after FSHLow treatment. Cholesteryl esters decreased in circulation but increased in follicular fluid (FF) after FSHLow. Increased circulating concentrations of TNFα and reduced CXCL9 were observed in response to FSHLow. Therefore, specific circulating lipids and cytokines may serve as markers of normal follicle maturation.
A Novel Prebiotic Fibre Blend Supports the Gastrointestinal Health of Senior Dogs
Authors: Le Bon Melanie , Carvell-Miller Laura , Marshall-Jones Zoe , Watson Phillip , Amos Gregory
Published: October 2023

Senior pets can suffer from a wide range of age-related diseases that can impact the quality of life for the pet and the relationship between a pet and their owner. Dietary fibre plays a key role in shaping the gastrointestinal health in mammalian species. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a novel prebiotic fibre blend containing sugar beet pulp, galacto-oligosaccharides, and cellulose on the health of senior dogs when fed on top of a background commercial dry diet. Thirty-two dogs aged >8 years received the prebiotic fibre blend as a dietary topper for 21 days on top of a nutritionally complete diet using a cross-over study design. The prebiotic fibre blend improved the gastrointestinal health of senior dogs as measured through improved faecal quality scores, a reduction in faecal pH, changes to the taxonomic composition of the gut, and a reduction in faecal branched-chain fatty acids, which are markers for proteolytic degradation. Broader systemic measures, such as changes to serum cytokines, were not impacted by the prebiotic fibre blend. In conclusion, a novel prebiotic fibre blend containing sugar beet pulp, galacto-oligosaccharides, and cellulose improved the gastrointestinal health of senior dogs and could have a range of potential future dietary applications.
Effects of Dendropanax morbiferus Leaf Extract on Sleep Parameters in Invertebrate and Vertebrate Models
Authors: Ko Kayoung , Ahn Yejin , Cheon Ga Yeong , Suh Hyung Joo , Cho Yun Jae , Park Sung-Soo , Hong Ki-Bae
Published: October 2023

Dendropanax morbiferus is highly valued in traditional medicine and has been used to alleviate the symptoms of numerous diseases owing to its excellent antioxidant activity. This study aimed to evaluate the sleep promotion and related signaling pathways of D. morbiferus extract (DE) via behavioral analysis, molecular biological techniques, and electrophysiological measurements in invertebrate and vertebrate models. In Drosophila, the group treated with 4% DE experienced decreased subjective nighttime movement and sleep bout and increased total sleeping time. Moreover, substantial changes in locomotor activity, including distance moved, velocity, and movement, were confirmed in the 4% DE-treated group. Compared to Drosophila in which insomnia and oxidative stress were induced by exposure to 0.1% caffeine, the DE-treated group improved sleep-related parameters to the level of the normal group. In the Drosophila model, exposure to 4% DE upregulated the expression of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-related receptors and serotonin receptor (5-HT1A), along with the expression of antioxidant-related factors, glutathione, and catalase. In the pentobarbital-induced sleep test using ICR mice, the duration of sleep was markedly increased by high concentration of DE. In addition, through the electroencephalography analysis of SD-rats, a significant increase in non-rapid-eye-movement sleep and delta waves was confirmed with high concentrations of DE administration. The increase in sleep time and improvement in sleep quality were confirmed to be related to the expression of altered GABA receptors and the enhancement of the contents of the neurotransmitters GABA and serotonin (5-HT) because of high DE administration. High-dose administration of DE also increased the expression of antioxidant-related factors in the brain and significantly decreased malondialdehyde content. Taken together, DE induced improvements in sleep quantity and quality by regulating neurotransmitter content and related receptor expression, along with high antioxidant activity, and may have a therapeutic effect on sleep disorders.
Evaluation of Fire Blight Resistance of Eleven Apple Rootstocks Grown in Kazakhstani Fields
Authors: Kairova Gulshariya , Pozharskiy Alexandr , Daulet Nurzhan , Solomadin Maxim , Sandybayev Nurlan , Khusnitdinova Marina , Nizamdinova Gulnaz , Sapakhova Zagipa , Gritsenko Dilyara
Published: October 2023

Clonal rootstocks of apple trees are one of the main components of intensive horticulture, and they play an important role in regulating tree growth, yield, fruit quality, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. In the two-year monitoring survey reported here, eleven rootstocks mainly used for cultivar grafting in Kazakhstan were assessed for fire blight resistance, taking genetic background into consideration. The loci FB_F7 on LG7 and FB_MR5 and RLP1 on LG3 were analyzed on the basis of SCAR and SNP markers. The rootstocks ‘Geneva 41’, ‘62-396’, and ‘Geneva16’, bearing resistant alleles for five markers (AH0JFXM, AH21B92, AH4AAGA, AH5I8MI, and AH6R6SQ), four markers (AH0JFXM, AH21B92, AH4AAGA, and AH5I8MI), and one (AH4AAGA) SNP marker, respectively, were not infected during the monitoring period despite weather conditions in 2022 being favorable for the development and spread of Erwinia amylovora. No connection was identified between the presence of a resistant allele for the AE10-375 marker and fire blight resistance responses. This is the first study to evaluate the fire blight resistance of foreign and local rootstocks grown in the Kazakhstan southern region.
Research on Representative Volume Element Fex-Cy High-Temperature Mechanical Model Based on Response Surface Analysis
Authors: Lyu Shining , Gao Youshan , Wang Aihong , Hu Yiming
Published: October 2023

In this research, a multi-scale representative volume element method is introduced that combines the temperature and stress fields to analyze the force field distribution around microcracks in low-carbon steel using a combination of molecular dynamics and finite element analysis. Initially, an orthogonal experimental design was used to design the molecular dynamics simulation experiments. Next, a nano-level uniaxial tensile test model for mild steel was established based on the experimental design, and the uniaxial tensile behavior of low-carbon steel was investigated using molecular dynamics. Lastly, mathematical models of the modulus of elasticity E and yield strength Q of mild steel at a high temperature were obtained statistically using the response surface methodology. Meanwhile, a finite element model with a coupled temperature–stress field was established to investigate the force field distribution around the microscopic defects, and the microscopic crack stress concentration coefficient K was revised. The results indicate that regardless of the location of microcracks within the structure, the stress distribution due to size effects should be considered under high-temperature loading.
Using Ankle Weights as an Effective Way to Increase the Intensity of Physical Activity While Playing Immersive Virtual Reality Games on an Omnidirectional Treadmill
Authors: Polechoński Jacek , Kostorz Karolina , Polechoński Piotr
Published: October 2023

Active virtual reality games (AVRGs) have become more and more popular. As the intensity of this form of physical activity (PA) may be insufficient to achieve health-related benefits, it is worth looking for solutions that increase the intensity of PA. The main aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of leg loading in the form of ankle weights (AWs) on the PA intensity of young adults playing AVRGs using an omnidirectional treadmill. The enjoyment of the game and users’ perceptions of the usefulness of this type of exercise were also evaluated. The study involved 26 university students. Each participant played an AVRG game on an omnidirectional treadmill twice, without and with ankle weights (2 kg per leg). The intensity of PA was evaluated using a heart rate monitor. The attractiveness of the game was assessed using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). The study found that the percentage of maximum heart rate in participants playing AVRGs without ankle weights was significantly lower than that observed when playing with the weights. In both cases, PA intensity was high. A survey showed that the weights attached to the ankles did not affect the perceptions of the enjoyment of the game. The use of ankle weights appears to be an effective and simple way to increase the intensity of physical exercise during AVRGs based on locomotor movements performed with the lower limbs, especially since, according to study participants, such a procedure does not negatively affect the enjoyment of the game. Due to the high intensity of PA while playing VR games using an omnidirectional treadmill, it can be assumed that regular use of this solution is likely to provide health benefits.
Improving the Accuracy of Landsat 8 Land Surface Temperature in Arid Regions by MODIS Water Vapor Imagery
Authors: Arabi Aliabad Fahime , Zare Mohammad , Ghafarian Malamiri Hamidreza , Ghaderpour Ebrahim
Published: October 2023

Land surface temperature (LST) is a significant environmental factor in many studies. LST estimation methods require various parameters, such as emissivity, temperature, atmospheric transmittance and water vapor. Uncertainty in these parameters can cause error in LST estimation. The present study shows how the moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) water vapor imagery can improve the accuracy of Landsat 8 LST in different land covers of arid regions of Yazd province in Iran. For this purpose, water vapor variation is analyzed for different land covers within different seasons. Validation is performed using T-based and cross-validation methods. The image of atmospheric water vapor is estimated using the MODIS sensor, and its changes are investigated in different land covers. The bare lands and sparse vegetation show the highest and lowest accuracy levels for T-based validation, respectively. The root mean square error (RMSE) is also calculated as 0.57 °C and 1.41 °C for the improved and general split-window (SW) algorithms, respectively. The cross-validation results show that the use of the MODIS water vapor imagery in the SW algorithm leads to a reduction of about 2.2% in the area where the RMSE group is above 5 °C.
Detection of Internal Wire Broken in Mining Wire Ropes Based on WOA–VMD and PSO–LSSVM Algorithms
Authors: Li Pengbo , Tian Jie , Zhou Zeyang , Wang Wei
Published: October 2023

To quantitatively identify internal wire breakage damage in mining wire ropes, a wire rope internal wire breakage signal identification method is proposed. First, the whale optimization algorithm is used to find the optimal value of the variational mode decomposition parameter [K,α] to obtain the optimal combination of the parameters, which reduces the signal noise with a signal-to-noise ratio of 29.29 dB. Second, the minimum envelope entropy of the noise reduction signal is extracted and combined with the time-domain features (maximum and minimum) and frequency-domain features (frequency–amplitude average, average frequency, average power) to form a fusion feature set. Finally, we use a particle swarm optimization–least squares support vector machine model to identify the internal wire breakage of wire ropes. The experimental results show that the method can effectively identify the internal wire rope breakage damage, and the average recognition rate is as high as 99.32%, so the algorithm can greatly reduce the system noise and effectively identify the internal damage signal of the wire rope, which is superior to a certain extent.
Identification and Characterization of a Novel Mannanase from Klebsiella grimontii
Authors: Chen Changzheng , Li Kuikui , Li Tang , Li Junyan , Liu Qishun , Yin Heng
Published: October 2023

Konjac glucomannan (KGM) is a natural polysaccharide derived from konjac, which has been widely used in various fields due to its numerous beneficial properties. However, the high viscosity and water absorption of KGM limit its application. Compared with KGM, Konjac glucomannan oligosaccharides (KGMOS) have higher water solubility and stronger application value. In this paper, a novel mannanase KgManA was cloned from Klebsiella grimontii to develop a new KGMOS-producing enzyme. Bioinformatic analysis shows that the structural similarity between KgManA and other enzymes was less than 18.33%. Phylogenetic analysis shows that KgManA shares different branches with the traditional mannanases containing the CMB35 domain, indicating that it is a novel mannanase. Then, the enzymatic properties were determined and substrate specificity was characterized. Surprisingly, KgManA is stable in a very wide pH range of 3.0 to 10.0; it has a special substrate specificity and seems to be active only for mannans without galactose in the side chain. Additionally, the three-dimensional structure of the enzyme was simulated and molecular docking of the mannotetraose substrate was performed. As far as we know, this is the first report to characterize the enzymatic properties and to simulate the structure of mannanase from K. grimontii. This work will contribute to the development and characterization of novel K. grimontii-derived mannanases. The above results indicate that KgManA is a promising tool for the production of KGMOS.
Cardioprotective Activity of Pharmacological Agents Affecting NO Production and Bioavailability in the Early Postnatal Period after Intrauterine Hypoxia in Rats
Authors: Popazova Olena , Belenichev Igor , Bukhtiyarova Nina , Ryzhenko Victor , Oksenych Valentyn , Kamyshnyi Aleksandr
Published: October 2023

Intrauterine hypoxia in newborns leads to a multifaceted array of alterations that exert a detrimental impact on the cardiovascular system. The aim of this research was to assess the cardioprotective effects of modulators of the nitric oxide (NO) system, including L-arginine, Thiotriazoline, Angiolin, and Mildronate, during the early postnatal period following intrauterine hypoxia. Methods: The study involved 50 female white rats. Pregnant female rats were given a daily intraperitoneal dose of 50 mg/kg of sodium nitrite starting on the 16th day of pregnancy. A control group of pregnant rats received saline instead. The resulting offspring were divided into the following groups: Group 1—intact rats; Group 2—rat pups subjected to prenatal hypoxia (PH) and daily treated with physiological saline; and Groups 3 to 6—rat pups exposed to prenatal hypoxia and treated daily from the 1st to the 30th day after birth. Nitrotyrosine levels, eNOS, iNOS, and NO metabolites were evaluated using ELISA; to measure the expression levels of iNOS mRNA and eNOS mRNA, a PCR test was utilized. Results: Angiolin enhances the expression of eNOS mRNA and boosts eNOS activity in the myocardium of rats with ischemic conditions. Arginine and particularly Thiotriazoline exhibited a consistent impact in restoring normal parameters of the cardiac nitroxidergic system following PH. Mildronate notably raised iNOS mRNA levels and notably reduced nitrotyrosine levels, providing further support for its antioxidative characteristics.
C-Terminal Region of Caveolin-3 Contains a Stretch of Amino Acid Residues Capable of Diminishing Symptoms of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis but Not Rheumatoid Arthritis Modeled in Rats
Authors: Danilkovich Alexey V. , Turobov Valery I. , Palikov Victor A. , Palikova Yulia A. , Shepelyakovskaya Anna O. , Mikhaylov Evgeniy S. , Slashcheva Gulsara A. , Shadrina Tatiana E. , Shaykhutdinova Elvira R. , Rasskazova Ekaterina A. , Tukhovskaya Elena A. , Khokhlova Oksana N. , Dyachenko Igor A. , Ismailova Alina M. , Zinchenko Dmitry V. , Navolotskaya Elena V. , Lipkin Valery M. , Murashev Arkady N. , Udovichenko Igor. P.
Published: October 2023

A short synthetic peptide from the C-terminal part of the caveolin-3 structure was tested for experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) treatment in rats. The structure–function similarity established between the novel synthetic peptide of pCav3 and the well-known immunomodulator immunocortin determined pCav3’s ability to reduce EAE symptoms in Dark Agouti (DA) rats injected with pCav3 (500 µg/kg). pCav3 was found to interfere with the proliferation of lymphocytes extracted from the LNs of DA rats primed with homogenate injection, with IC50 = 0.42 μM (2.35 mcg/mL). pCav3 affected EAE in a very similar manner as immunocortin. The high degree of homology between the amino acid sequences of pCav3 and immunocortin corresponded well with the therapeutic activities of both peptides, as demonstrated on EAE. The latter peptide, possessing a homologous structure to pCav3, was also tested on EAE to explore whether there were structural restrictions between these peptides implied by the MHC-involved cell machinery. Consequently, immunocortin was further examined with a different autoimmune disease model, collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), established in Sprague–Dawley rats. CIA was established using an intentionally different genetic platform than EAE. Based on the results, it was concluded that the effectiveness of pCav3 and immunocortin peptides in EAE rat model was almost identical, but differed in the rat model of rheumatoid arthritis; thus, efficacy may be sensitive to the MHC type of animals used to establish the autoimmune disease model.
Research Progress on Low-Surface-Energy Antifouling Coatings for Ship Hulls: A Review
Authors: Cao Zhimin , Cao Pan
Published: October 2023

The adhesion of marine-fouling organisms to ships significantly increases the hull surface resistance and expedites hull material corrosion. This review delves into the marine biofouling mechanism on marine material surfaces, analyzing the fouling organism adhesion process on hull surfaces and common desorption methods. It highlights the crucial role played by surface energy in antifouling and drag reduction on hulls. The paper primarily concentrates on low-surface-energy antifouling coatings, such as organic silicon and organic fluorine, for ship hull antifouling and drag reduction. Furthermore, it explores the antifouling mechanisms of silicon-based and fluorine-based low-surface-energy antifouling coatings, elucidating their respective advantages and limitations in real-world applications. This review also investigates the antifouling effectiveness of bionic microstructures based on the self-cleaning abilities of natural organisms. It provides a thorough analysis of antifouling and drag reduction theories and preparation methods linked to marine organism surface microstructures, while also clarifying the relationship between microstructure surface antifouling and surface hydrophobicity. Furthermore, it reviews the impact of antibacterial agents, especially antibacterial peptides, on fouling organisms’ adhesion to substrate surfaces and compares the differing effects of surface structure and substances on ship surface antifouling. The paper outlines the potential applications and future directions for low-surface-energy antifouling coating technology.
On the Use of Accelerometric Data to Monitor the Seismic Performance of Non-Structural Elements in Existing Buildings: A Case Study
Authors: Rota Maria , Zito Martino , Dubini Paolo , Nascimbene Roberto
Published: October 2023

Monitoring of non-structural elements is not usually implemented, despite the seismic vulnerability of these components and the significant cost associated with their replacement in case of damage. By exploiting the limited cost of commercial sensors, accelerometers were installed in an existing building to compare accelerations applied to non-structural elements in case of an earthquake with critical acceleration thresholds. The exceedance of these thresholds would indicate a possible danger for the occupants and the need for a more detailed inspection of the element, guiding prioritisation strategies in the aftermath of the earthquake. Furthermore, the real-time probabilistic assessment of potential damage to non-structural elements can serve to identify escape routes and facilitate rescue operations. Critical acceleration thresholds were defined from probabilistic considerations on the expected seismic performance of each typology of non-structural element, described by appropriately selected fragility curves. The feasibility of the proposed procedure was tested by comparing the identified acceleration thresholds with the design values of floor acceleration provided by the Italian Building Code. As a further application, critical acceleration values of the different non-structural elements were compared with a set of real floor acceleration values recorded at the top level of reinforced concrete buildings, highlighting critical non-structural element typologies.
The Cracking and Tensile-Load-Bearing Behaviour of Concrete Reinforced with Sanded Carbon Grids
Authors: Frenzel Michael , Baumgärtel Enrico , Marx Steffen , Curbach Manfred
Published: October 2023

This article presents the cracking and load-bearing behaviour of carbon-reinforced prismatic concrete tensile specimens. Grids with different geometries and impregnations were used as carbon reinforcement. In addition, the roving surfaces were partially coated with a fine sand to improve the bond between concrete and reinforcement. The article shows the influence of the different parameters on the developing cracks with respect to their width and spacing from each other. The material properties and tensile strengths of carbon concrete are also presented. These can be used for calculations. A fine-grained, commercially available shotcrete was used for the investigations. Based on the tests and results described in this article, an influence of the sanded carbon grids on the crack properties (crack widths, crack spacing) could be shown in comparison to unsanded carbon grids.