bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do forest reserves help maintain pollinator diversity and pollination services in tropical agricultural highlands? A case study using Brassica rapa as a model
Authors: Escobedo-Kenefic Natalia , Cardona Edson , Arizmendi María del Coro , Domínguez César A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Habitat loss and fragmentation have negative impacts on pollinator populations and thus on the pollination services they provide. Negative effects can be lessened by the presence of forest remnants that serve as refuges and sources of food for pollinators. However, few studies have analyzed the influence of highly heterogeneous agricultural landscapes (as commonly found in many developing countries), on pollination services.

Methods

We compared native bee diversity, pollination visitation, and fruit set of Brassica rapa L. between two land use conditions (sites maintaining more than 15% of the original forest coverture [Moderately Modified], and sites with less of 10% [Highly Modified]) in the highlands of Guatemala.

Results

Native bee diversity was higher in HM areas, although social bees were more abundant in MM sites. We did not find differences in pollinator visitation rate between conditions. HM sites were mainly visited by honeybees (Apis mellifera Linnaeus), while native bees and syrphid flies were more frequent in the MM condition. Fruit set was significantly higher in MM sites and was positively affected by natural forest areas. Experiments on pollen limitation and on pollinator efficiency stressed the importance of native pollinators in fruit production, especially in moderately modified areas.

Discussion

Our results highlight the role of forest remnants for the provision of pollination services in tropical agricultural highlands and underline the relevance of appropriate management of introduced bees such as A. mellifera.
Precision and accuracy of craniofacial growth and orthodontic treatment evaluation by digital image correlation: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Danz Jan Christian , Stöckli Simone , Rank Christian Per
Published: July 2024

Introduction

A precise and accurate method for structural superimposition is essential for analyzing dentofacial growth and orthodontic or surgical treatment in longitudinal studies. The errors associated with different superimposition methods have not yet been assessed in high-quality studies.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the precision and accuracy of digital image correlation (DIC) for structural superimposition.

Methods

Two cephalometric images from 30 consecutive patients were superimposed using three DIC methods, each measured twice by two examiners. Areas including the contours of the sella, the whole cranial base (CB), and Walker's point and lamina cribrosa (WPLC) were compared using a random coefficient model. Inter-rater and intra-rater errors were assessed for each method.

Results

WPLC provided the best precision for image rotation and cephalometric landmarks. Systematic bias was observed between the WPLC and CB methods for image rotation and most landmarks. The intra-rater error in image rotation during DIC was strongly correlated with the intra-rater error in the landmarks of the anterior nasal spine, articulare, and pogonion.

Conclusion

Structural superimposition using DIC with WPLC is a precise method for analyzing dentofacial growth and orthodontic or surgical treatment. Moreover, the best method is the measurement of longitudinal dental and craniofacial changes on structurally superimposed cephalometric radiographs with WPLC and a reference grid including the true vertical and horizontal lines from Walker's point.
A thing about karate in physical culture
Authors: Piepiora Paweł Adam , Čaplová Petra , Cynarski Wojciech Jan
Published: July 2024

This paper deals with karate activity in the areas of physical culture in the broad sense. It is a concise and clear approach to the topic, which aimed to conceptualise the inclusion of karate in areas of physical culture as a contemporarily attractive physical activity. Karate was described here as a combat sport, martial art, and self-defence system in the following areas of physical culture: physical education, physiotherapy, recreation, sports, and tourism. Reference here was made to physical activity focused on bunkai (circuit interpretation exercises), kata (circuit exercises), kihon (technical exercises), and kumite (combat exercises). It has been determined that practitioners’ involvement in karate culture affects their level of sense of coherence. In addition, the conditioning for using karate in physical culture to the maintenance of health was mentioned. Here, reference was made to the perceptual perspective of the bodily and mental practice of karate for health. It has been established that this can be effective by adopting only the objectives of karate as martial art. Based on the above, it was concluded that practising karate is present in all areas of physical culture as combat sport, martial art, and self-defence system, but practising karate only as martial art provides opportunities for maintenance of health.
Analysis of the driving path of e-commerce to high-quality agricultural development in China: empirical evidence from mediating effect models
Authors: Kong Yanfang , Zhang Xue , Li Xiaoxu , Pastpipatkul Pathairat , Liu Jianxu , Feng Chuhui
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the impact of e-commerce on high-quality agricultural development (HQAD) in China. As the agricultural sector transitions towards higher quality production in the digital era, understanding the influence pathways and mechanisms of e-commerce becomes crucial. We aim to quantify this influence through a hierarchical approach.

Methods

Utilizing provincial panel data from 2000 to 2021, we construct a comprehensive HQAD evaluation system using the entropy method. Parallel mediating effect models are employed to empirically assess the multi-level effects of e-commerce on HQAD.

Results

Benchmark regression analyzes reveal a significant positive effect of e-commerce on HQAD, indicating its role as a key driver in China’s agricultural advancement. Mechanism tests identify several intermediary pathways through which e-commerce indirectly promotes HQAD, including market expansion, agricultural value chain optimization, enhanced social services, and improved infrastructure. Notably, market expansion and value chain optimization demonstrate the most substantial mediation effects, accounting for 43.27 and 14.18% of the total effect, respectively.

Discussion

This research contributes to the literature by establishing a comprehensive HQAD evaluation framework, providing a theoretical foundation for future studies. By incorporating circulation factors into the production system, we elucidate the complex influence mechanisms of e-commerce on agricultural production, addressing a significant research gap. Furthermore, we propose a novel “demand-driven supply optimization” paradigm, offering valuable insights for policy formulation aimed at fostering HQAD in China.
Career transition plans of veterinarians in clinical practice
Authors: Kogan Lori R. , Rishniw Mark
Published: July 2024

Objective

Gain an understanding of the career transition plans of veterinarians in clinical practice.

Sample

Veterinary members of the Veterinary Information Network (VIN) working as small animal clinicians.

Procedures

An electronic survey distributed via the VIN data collection portal.

Results

A total of 1,256 responses from veterinarians in clinical practice were analyzed, with 61% indicating they plan to decrease their clinical work, and 31% to stop entirely within the next 5 years. The most common reasons for these choices were to have more free time for oneself and/or family/friends (76%), to maintain good health (59%), and feeling burned out (50%). Factors that might entice them to retain their current number of clinical hours included reduced workload or shorter hours (42%), financial incentivization (38%), and improved working conditions (26%). Concerns related to retirement were common with 47% of participants in our study reported feeling concerned about the loss of professional identity, 34% reported concern about reduced social connections, and 28% reported concern as to how they would fill their time.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

The reported desire to reduce/stop one’s clinical work within the next 5 years by 42% of veterinarians ≤44 years of age, with burnout a primary predictor, offers insights into the necessity of change at the organizational, systemic (versus individual) level. The fact that many participants reported concerns related to retirement and 32% reported that they did not have adequate retirement information suggests a need for supportive services to help ensure a successful transition.
Case report: First report of potentially zoonotic Gongylonema pulchrum in a free-living roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in Slovenia
Authors: Bandelj Petra , Žele Vengušt Diana , Vengušt Gorazd , Kušar Darja
Published: July 2024

Adult female and male Gongylonema nematodes were found in the oesophagus of a free-living roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in Slovenia during passive health surveillance of wildlife. The genus Gongylonema was determined by light microscopy based on the genus-specific cuticular bosses in the anterior part of the parasite. Molecular methods were used to confirm the species Gongylonema pulchrum, which has zoonotic potential. Although Gongylonema species are considered common and distributed worldwide, this is the first report of G. pulchrum in an animal on the territory of Slovenia and the first molecular report in a roe deer worldwide. The parasite is likely to be underdiagnosed, misdiagnosed or goes unnoticed as the animals show little or no clinical signs and minor pathological lesions. Slaughterhouse workers, hunters and veterinarians should be aware of this elusive parasite. Examination and evisceration of the upper digestive tract of animals should therefore be carried out more carefully.
Medical Professionals’ Responses to a Patient Safety Incident in Healthcare
Authors: Kupkovicova Lucia , Skoumalova Ivana , Madarasova Geckova Andrea , Dankulincova Veselska Zuzana
Published: July 2024

Objectives: Patient safety incidents (PSIs) are common in healthcare. Open communication facilitated by psychological safety in healthcare could contribute to the prevention of PSIs and enhance patient safety. The aim of the study was to explore medical professionals’ responses to a PSI in relation to psychological safety in Slovak healthcare.

Methods: Sixteen individual semi-structured interviews with Slovak medical professionals were performed. Obtained qualitative data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using the conventional content analysis method and the consensual qualitative research method.

Results: We identified eight responses to a PSI from medical professionals themselves as well as their colleagues, many of which were active and with regard to ensuring patient safety (e.g., notification), but some of them were passive and ultimately threatening patients’ safety (e.g., silence). Five superiors’ responses to the PSI were identified, both positive (e.g., supportive) and negative (e.g., exaggerated, sharp).

Conclusion: Medical professionals’ responses to a PSI are diverse, indicating a potential for enhancing psychological safety in healthcare.
Protective Factors of Nurses’ Mental Health and Professional Wellbeing During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multicenter Longitudinal Study
Authors: Jubin Jonathan , Martin Line , Kabwiku Naomi , Delmas Philippe , Gilles Ingrid , Oulevey Bachmann Annie , Huber Claudia , Loiselle Marie-Chantal , Rassy Jessica , Sampaio Francisco , Salgado Ricardo , Ortoleva Bucher Claudia
Published: July 2024

Objective

Using a salutogenic approach, this study aimed to identify similarities in the protective factors of nurses’ psychological Quality of Life (QoL) and professional wellbeing (PWB) in four countries and to assess their variability over time during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This multicentric study used a longitudinal design with three measurements points: Autumn 2021, spring 2022, and autumn 2022. The study consisted in a self-administered online questionnaire addressed to nurses working in hospitals. Across all measurement times, 3,310 observations were collected in France, 603 in Switzerland, 458 in Portugal, and 278 in Canada. The outcomes were psychological QoL and PWB, and several potential protective factors were used as determinants.

Results

Analyses revealed few changes over time in the outcomes. Across all countries, psychological QoL was associated positively with resilience and perceived social support, whereas PWB was associated positively with the ability to provide quality work and support from colleagues and superiors.

Conclusion

The findings of this study highlighted the potential of several factors protective of nurses’ psychological QoL and PWB. These should be fostered through policies and measures to support nurses.
Dymensjonalne podejście w diagnozie dysleksji
Authors: Korendo Marta
Published: July 2024

The current educational understanding of dyslexia and its diagnosis is incompatible both with current neurobiological knowledge and the needs of people with dyslexia. There are no new diagnostic tools, and the ones still in use date back to the 1970s. Neurobiological knowledge about dyslexia allows us to consider its interplay with the broader context of the neural language network, as well as to note the co-existing problems with time processing and with motor skills. Only a broad understanding of dyslexia and accounting for its interrelations with other phenomena, i.e. a dimensional diagnosis, will bring about an effective, early detection of the problem and a change in the therapeutic approach.
An Evolving Landscape of the Psychology of Judgment and Decision-Making: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Ngamake Sakkaphat T. , Raveepatarakul Jirapattara , Sawang Sukanlaya
Published: July 2024

As a discipline with an expansive and intricate landscape, the field of judgment and decision-making (JDM) has evolved significantly since the beginning of the 2020s. The extensive and intricate nature of this field might pose challenges for scholars and researchers in designing course content and curricula as well as in defining research boundaries. Several techniques from a bibliometric study, such as co-word analysis and co-citation analysis, can provide insights into the scopes and directions of the field. Previous bibliometric studies on the psychology of JDM have primarily analyzed published documents restricted either by content areas or by journal outlets. The present study attempts to analyze a collection of published documents with broad search terms (i.e., “judgment*” or “decision mak*”) within the purview of the psychology subject area, separately by years of publication (from 2020 to 2022) using the bibliometrix package in the R environment. The most relevant journals and the most frequent keywords have suggested established areas of study, uncovering common themes, patterns, and trends. Beyond that, two science mapping techniques (i.e., keyword co-occurrence network and reference co-citation network) revealed 12 prominent themes that cut across the three-year period. These themes, alongside other intellectually stimulating issues, were discussed based on a comparison with outstanding book chapters and reviews. Implications for pedagogical purposes were also provided with a handful of notable resources.
The Influence of Nitrogen and Sulfur Fertilization on Oil Quality and Seed Meal in Different Genotypes of Winter Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Spasibionek Stanisław , Wielebski Franciszek , Liersch Alina , Walkowiak Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Adequate nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilization of oilseed rape crops is necessary to obtain good-quality oil and post-extraction rapeseed meal. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of different doses of N fertilization (100, 160 and 220 kg ha−1) and S (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha−1) on the value of seeds of three winter oilseed rape genotypes. Two winter oilseed rape genotypes obtained by mutagenesis (cultivar Polka and breeding genotype PN440) were characterized by changed fatty acid profile. The cultivar Polka, type HO (high oleic), had a high content of oleic acid (C18:1, 78.0%) and the breeding genotype PN440, type HOLL (high-oleic and low-linolenic), had a high content of oleic acid (C18:1, 75.0%) and a low content of linolenic acid (C18:3, 3.0%). We also used the canola type of winter oilseed rape cultivar, Monolit. The analysed winter oilseed rape genotypes responded similarly to the N and S fertilization factors with regard to the content of crude fat and total protein in the seeds and the composition of fatty acids in the oil. N fertilization increased the content of glucosinolates (GLS-alkenyl, indole and total) in seeds, whereas S application decreased the content of saturated fatty acids (stearic acid-C18:0) in oil and increased the content of alkenyl and total glucosinolates (GLSs) in seeds. A significant interaction between N and S was observed for crude-fat and total-protein content. This study suggests that ensuring an adequate supply of both nitrogen and sulfur in the soil is essential for optimizing meal and oil quality in different types of winter oilseed rape cultivars. Proper management of these nutrients can lead to improved oil content and overall crop performance.
A Preliminary Assessment of the Combined Effects of a Novel Microbial Biostimulant Product, Fertilizers, and Herbicides on the Growth and Yield of Field Crops in Greece
Authors: Gazoulis Ioannis , Zannopoulos Stavros , Kokkini Metaxia , Antonopoulos Nikolaos , Kanatas Panagiotis , Kanetsi Marianna , Demirtzoglou Triantafyllia , Travlos Ilias
Published: July 2024

Field trials were conducted (2022–2023) in a randomized complete block design to evaluate the combined use of a microbial biostimulant, P-K Stim, which contains phosphate and potassium solubilizing bacteria (109 Colony Forming Units mL−1), various fertilization rates, and herbicide use on weed growth and the productivity of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.), and durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.). The following treatment list was the same on all trial fields: (1) 100% basal fertilization (100N), (2) 20% basal fertilization and application of microbial biostimulant P-K Stim (20N + PK), (3) 100% basal fertilization and post-emergence herbicide treatment (100N + H), (4) 20% basal fertilization together with the application of P-K Stim and a post-emergence herbicide treatment (20N + PK + H), and (5) 50% basal fertilization together with the application of P-K Stim and a post-emergence herbicide treatment (50N + PK + H). The combined use of fertilization, biostimulants, and herbicides significantly affected crop yield, its components and weed biomass (p ≤ 0.05). The concentrations for potassium and phosphorus were higher in the 20N + PK + H and 50N + PK + H treatments for all crops compared to other treatments. Nutrient concentrations were remarkably high across all crops, closely approximating the values of the recommended nitrogen fertilization. Crop yield and its components were positively influenced by the 20N + PK + H and 50N + PK + H treatments. Weed biomass was significantly lower in these plots compared to other treatments.
Influences on the Decision to Euthanize a Compromised Pig
Authors: Stoffregen Julia , Winkelmann Tristan , Schneider Bettina , Fehrmann Michel , Gerdes Kathrin , Miller Moana , Reinmold Jennifer , Hennig-Pauka Isabel , Kemper Nicole , Kleinsorgen Christin , Tölle Karl-Heinz , Kreienbrock Lothar , Wendt Michael , grosse Beilage Elisabeth
Published: July 2024

The decision to euthanize a compromised pig can be challenging for pig farmers and veterinarians. To understand more about the challenges in Germany, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted. Based on a hybrid design, the responses of 39 veterinarians and 62 pig farmers were analyzed to generate a list of common clinical signs associated with the euthanasia of sows, fatteners, and piglets. Moreover, a set of influences on the farm, due to economic and personal considerations, were found to shape the decision-making process. The two most salient reasons outlined for the delay of timely euthanasia were uncertainty and misinterpretation of the chance for healing. The lack of valid clinical signs or a sound justification was most frequently mentioned as a challenge to the general decision-making process. In summation, this study highlights the need to generate a valid taxonomy for clinical signs that includes their development in a compromised pig over time. Future studies should elaborate on the justification of euthanasia decisions to facilitate the resolution of ethical dilemmas among the involved pig farmers and veterinarians. Lastly, the results suggest that clinical reasoning and consultation skills should be included when decision-making behavior is to be trained.
Effects of Heat-Treated Bifidobacterium longum CECT-7347 Combined with Fibersol-2 on the Intestinal Health of Cats Submitted to an Abrupt Dietary Change: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Wang Fan , Gao Siyuan , Peng Qianqian , Tan Lili , Chen Siyu , Xia Zhaofei
Published: July 2024

Abrupt dietary change can disrupt the intestinal balance in felines. This study aimed to assess the impact of heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum CECT-7347 combined with Fibersol-2 on the intestinal health of adult cats before and after dietary change. We selected 24 British shorthair cats, dividing them into two groups. From day 1 to day 14, the control group received a lower protein (33%) concentration (LPF) diet, while the treated group received the same LPF diet supplemented with 0.16% functional additives, consisting of Bifidobacterium longum CECT-7347 combined with Fibersol-2. Subsequently, from day 15 to day 28, the control group transitioned to a higher protein (40%) concentration (HPF) diet, while the treated group received the same HPF diet supplemented with 0.16% functional additives. Blood and fresh feces were collected on day 0, 14, 17, 21, and 28 of the experiment. The results suggest that the use of heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum CECT-7347 combined with Fibersol-2 may improve gastrointestinal function in cats by reducing serum LPS levels and fecal pH, while increasing fecal sIgA levels. In addition, the functional additive regulates the fecal microbiota and its function, promoting intestinal homeostasis and colonization with beneficial bacteria such as Blautia. Furthermore, on day 28, there was a significant difference in fecal microbiota beta diversity between the two groups. In summary, the addition of heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum CECT-7347 combined with Fibersol-2 contributes to improving the intestinal health of adult cats affected by abrupt dietary change.
Field Application of an Innovative Approach to Assess Honeybee Health and Nutritional Status
Authors: Rudelli Cecilia , Galuppi Roberta , Cabbri Riccardo , Dalmonte Thomas , Fontanesi Luca , Andreani Giulia , Isani Gloria
Published: July 2024

Environment, forage quality, management practices, pathogens, and pesticides influence honeybee responses to stressors. This study proposes an innovative approach to assess colony health and performance using molecular diagnostic tools by correlating hemolymph proteins with common measures of colony strength, prevalent honeybee pathogens (Varroa destructor and Nosema spp.), and essential trace elements (iron, zinc and copper). Colonies were selected from four apiaries located in different environmental and foraging conditions in the province of Bologna (Italy). Hemolymph samples were taken from June to October 2019. The Varroa infestation of the colonies was estimated by assessing the natural mortality of the mites, while the bees were tested for Nosema spp. spores using a microscopic method. Hemolymph proteins were quantified and separated using SDS-PAGE, and colony performance was assessed by determining adult bees, total brood, honey, and pollen reserves. The biomarkers measured proved to be useful for monitoring changes in performance and trophic conditions during summer and early autumn. Significant correlations were found between hemolymph proteins and colony performance measures. A positive correlation between pollen reserves, vitellogenin, and hexamerin 70a highlights the importance of these proteins for successful overwintering. In October, Varroa infestation was negatively correlated with total proteins, vitellogenin, apolipophorin II, transferrin, and hexamerin 70a, with negative implications for overwintering; furthermore, Varroa infestation was also negatively correlated with iron content, potentially affecting iron homeostasis.
Phylogenetic and Genetic Variation Analysis of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus in East Central China during 2020–2023
Authors: Sun Liumei , Li Duo , Yan Caijie , Wu Chengyue , Han Feng , Bo Zongyi , Shen Manman , Sun Yiwei , Wang Liyan , Zheng Haoqin , Wang Mengdong , Zhang Zhendong
Published: July 2024

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is a major causative pathogen of a highly contagious, acute enteric viral disease. This study evaluated the emergence of nine variants in Jiangsu and Anhui provinces of China from 2020 to 2023. S gene-based phylogenetic analysis indicated that three variants belong to the G1c subgroup, while the other six strains are clustered within the G2c subgroup. Recombination analyses supported that three variants of the G1c subgroup were likely derived from recombination of parental variants FR0012014 and a donor variant AJ1102. In addition, there are novel mutations on amino acid 141–148 and these likely resulted in changes in antigenicity in the three variants. These results illustrated that the study provides novel insights into the epidemiology, evolution, and transmission of PEDV in China.
The Roles of a Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae High-Risk Clone and Its Resistance Plasmids on the Gastrointestinal Colonization and Host-Defense Effectors in the Gut
Authors: Stercz Balazs , Domokos Judit , Dunai Zsuzsanna A. , Makra Nora , Juhasz Janos , Ostorhazi Eszter , Kocsis Bela , Szabo Dora
Published: July 2024

The asymptomatic gastrointestinal colonization of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria can lead to difficult-to-treat infections. We investigated the role of host factors influencing colonization in an orogastrical murine infection model using a CTX-M-15- and OXA-162-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST15 (MDR-KP) strain, as well as Escherichia coli J53 (EC) and E. coli transconjugants with an IncFII(K) plasmid carrying CTX-M-15 (EC-CTXM), and with an IncL plasmid carrying OXA-162 (EC-OXA) genes. The fecal bacterial count in colony-forming unit/gram stool (CFU/g) was determined by cultivation, IgA and defensin levels by ELISA, and gut microbiota by 16S rRNA analysis. The CFU was the lowest in EC, followed by EC-OXA and EC-CTXM, and the highest in the MDR-KP group. The IgA level in feces increased in MDR-KP, EC-CTXM, and EC-OXA, and did not change in EC. The beta-defensin 3 level markedly increased in all groups, with the highest values in MDR-KP and EC-CTXM. Alpha-defensin-5 increased in all groups especially in EC. In microbiota, the Bacteroidota phylum was dominant in MDR-KP, EC-CTXM, and EC-OXA, whereas Proteobacteria was dominant in EC. The Muribaculaceae family was significantly more common in the MDR-KP and EC-OXA groups, while the Lachnospiraceae family was dominant in the EC group. While fecal IgA levels positively correlated with colonizing bacterial CFU, the alpha-defensin 5 levels inversely correlated with CFUs and IgA levels. The presence of the IncFII(K) plasmid induced beta-defensin 3 production. The amounts of the Muribaculaceae family members exhibited a correlation with the IncL plasmid. The detected amounts of the Lachnospiraceae family indicated the protective role against the high-risk clone and the resistance plasmids’ dissemination. Our results suggest that not only the MDR-KP clone itself but also the resistance plasmids play a primary role in the colonization rate in the gastrointestinal tract. Both the MDR-KP clone as well as the IncFII(K) and IncL resistance plasmids provide survival and colonization benefits in the gut.
Quantitative Research on Roof Deformation and Temporary Support Stiffness in Deep-Mine Gob-Side Entry Retaining by Roof Cutting
Authors: Liu Xiao , Hua Xinzhu , Liang Yuntao , Li Chen
Published: July 2024

The important technical process to ensure the success of gob-side entry retaining by roof cutting (GERRC) was the advanced pre-splitting blasting to cut off the mechanical connection between the roadway and working face roof. The whole-cycle roof structure evolution and stress characteristics of GERRC were analyzed. The factors affecting the roof deformation of GERRC were analyzed, and the quantitative relationship between the roof deformation of GERRC and the support stiffness was determined. The results showed that the temporary support stiffness was higher, the support position to the side of the roof cutting was closer, and the roof subsidence deformation of GERRC was smaller. It is proposed to use a single support mass with a high stiffness to control the deformation of the roof, but it also made the support mass and roof elastic potential energy aggregate. To fully utilize the matching of the support stiffness and roof subsidence, improve the stability, and control the subsidence deformation of the roof in GERRC, double-row stacking supports were adopted in the inclination of GERRC, which were used to increase the stiffness of the support system.
Correction: Tabassam et al. Accumulation of Different Metals in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) Fruits Irrigated with Wastewater. Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 9711
Authors: Tabassam Qaisra , Ahmad Muhammad Sajid Aqeel , Alvi Ambreen Khadija , Awais Muhammad , Kaushik Prashant , El-Sheikh Mohamed A.
Published: July 2024

In the publication [...]
Logging Lithology Discrimination with Enhanced Sampling Methods for Imbalance Sample Conditions
Authors: Liu Jingyue , Tian Fei , Zhao Aosai , Zheng Wenhao , Cao Wenjing
Published: July 2024

In the process of lithology discrimination from a conventional well logging dataset, the imbalance in sample distribution restricts the accuracy of log identification, especially in the fine-scale reservoir intervals. Enhanced sampling balances the distribution of well logging samples of multiple lithologies, which is of great significance to precise fine-scale reservoir characterization. This study employed data over-sampling and under-sampling algorithms represented by the synthetic minority over-sampling technique (SMOTE), adaptive synthetic sampling (ADASYN), and edited nearest neighbors (ENN) to process well logging dataset. To achieve automatic and precise lithology discrimination on enhanced sampled well logging dataset, support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) models were trained using cross-validation and grid search methods. Aimed to objectively evaluate the performance of different models on different sampling results from multiple perspectives, the lithology discrimination results were evaluated and compared based on the Jaccard index and F1 score. By comparing the predictions of eighteen lithology discrimination workflows, a new discrimination process containing ADASYN, ENN, and RF has the most precise lithology discrimination result. This process improves the discrimination accuracy of fine-scale reservoir interval lithology, has great generalization ability, and is feasible in a variety of different geological environments.
A Review of Foot–Terrain Interaction Mechanics for Heavy-Duty Legged Robots
Authors: Zhuang Hongchao , Wang Jiaju , Wang Ning , Li Weihua , Li Nan , Li Bo , Dong Lei
Published: July 2024

Heavy-duty legged robots have played an important role in material transportation, planet exploration, and other fields due to their unique advantages in complex and harsh terrain environments. The instability phenomenon of the heavy-duty legged robots often arises during the dynamic interactions between the supporting feet and the intricate terrains, which significantly impact the ability of the heavy-duty legged robots to move rapidly and accomplish tasks. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the mechanical behavior of foot–terrain interactions for the heavy-duty legged robots. In order to achieve the above goal, a systematic literature review methodology is employed to examine recent technical scientific publications, aiming to identify both current and prospective research fields. The characteristics of supporting feet for different heavy-duty legged robots are compared and analyzed. The foot–terrain mechanical models of the heavy-duty legged robots are discussed. The problems that need further research are summarized and presented, which is conducive to further deepening and expanding the research on the mechanical behavior of foot–terrain interactions for heavy-duty legged robots.
Tooth Surface Deviation Analysis for Continuous Generation Grinding of Internal Gears
Authors: Yang Jianjun , Zhang Zhaolong , Wang Shuai , Wu Jialu
Published: July 2024

In order to resolve the issues of low efficiency and poor precision in the traditional finishing process of hardened internal gears, a method is proposed for calculating the profile curves of a drum-shaped grinding tool suitable for mass finishing of hardened internal gears. Additionally, the impact of drum-shaped grinding tool installation errors on the tooth surface deviation of internal gears is analyzed. Firstly, the processing principle for the generation grinding of internal gears by the drum-shaped grinding tool is introduced. Based on differential geometry, meshing theory, and two-degree-of-freedom enveloping method, a mathematical model is developed for the generation grinding of internal gears. Profile curves of the drum-shaped grinding tool are obtained by solving the meshing equation between the drum-shaped grinding tool and the internal gear. Then, the tooth surface equation for the internal gear is derived in the presence of drum-shaped grinding tool installation errors. By discretizing the error tooth surface of the internal gear, the average normal deviation of the tooth surface is calculated. In the end, the distribution of normal deviation on the tooth surface of the internal gear with different drum-shaped grinding tool installation errors is acquired, and the influence of four kinds of installation errors on the tooth surface of the internal gear is analyzed. The sensitive direction is identified for drum-shaped grinding tool installation errors on the tooth surface of the internal gear. Consequently, this research provides a calculation method for the drum-shaped grinding tool fit for high-precision and high-efficiency finishing of mass-produced hardened internal gear and offers a reference for correcting deviation in the tooth surface of internal gear with installation errors of the drum-shaped grinding tool.
Effects of a Short-Term Supervised Exercise Program in Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Cano-Uceda Arturo , Pareja-García Paloma , Sánchez-Rodríguez Esther , Fraguas-Ramos David , Martín-Álvarez Laura , Asencio-Vicente Rebeca , Rivero-de la Villa Amaya , Pérez-Pérez María del Mar , Obispo-Portero Berta María , Morales-Ruiz Laura , de Dios-Álvarez Rosalía , De Sousa-De Sousa Luis , García-Fernández Pablo , Maté-Muñoz José Luis
Published: July 2024

Background: Due to their high toxicity, cancer treatments produce multiple sequelae, including fatigue, which has a great impact on quality of life. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy on quality of life, fatigue, and functional capacity of a short-term exercise program combining aerobic exercise, resistance training, and stretching for 6 weeks in cancer patients. Methods: The design of the study was quasi-experimental, which included a group of 30 women who were receiving or had received in the last year chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormonal treatment. The exercise supervised program with vigorous intensity lasted for six weeks and consisted of three distinct blocks: aerobic exercise (25 min), resistance training (20 min), and stretching exercises (15 min). Before and after starting the exercise program quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire), functional capacity [6 min Walking Test (6MWT), Handgrip Test (HGT), 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (30s-STST)], and fatigue (FACIT-F questionnaire) were measured. Results: In the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire significantly higher scores were observed in the global health status scale (p < 0.05), as well as in the functional scale in the role functioning, emotional functioning, and cognitive functioning items (p < 0.05), indicating a higher quality of life and overall health level. There was also a reduction in fatigue (p < 0.05), obtaining higher scores on the FACIT-F questionnaire after the exercise program. Additionally significant improvements are observed in 6MWT, HGT, and 30s-STST following the implementation of the exercise program (p < 0.05). Conclusions: A 6-week exercise protocol, with a vigorous intensity, including resistance training, endurance, and stretching exercises can produce significant improvements in quality of life and reduction in fatigue, as well as improve muscle strength and functional capacity.
Comparison of Embankment Properties with Clay Core and Asphaltic Concrete Core
Authors: Rewtragulapaibul Chawakorn , Jaritngam Saravut , Wannawong Tanawan , Somchainuek Opas
Published: July 2024

The development of a country is affected by various multifaceted factors, which are likely to generate the highest benefits. For example, developing water resources by constructing embankments to store water and for transportation must consider high resilience, particularly with the current challenges arising from climate change. Another factor that must be considered is the shortage of essential materials for embankment cores, such as clay, which is the primary material for constructing such cores. This study aims to analyze the stability of soil embankments between the change of materials, namely clay and asphaltic concrete, by varying the water level and increasing the embankment load. The result shows that the asphaltic concrete core exhibits a significantly higher stability than the clay core, such as its reduced water seepage and lower deformation. In the worst-case scenario, the asphalt concrete core has a thickness of 0.3 m and a seepage rate of 15.1 × 10−4 m3/day. Comparatively, the seepage rate of the clay core is approximately 10-times lower.
An Enzyme-Induced Carbonate Precipitation Method for Zn2+, Ni2+, and Cr(VI) Remediation: An Experimental and Simulation Study
Authors: Bian Yi , Chen Yanbo , Zhan Liangtong , Ke Han , Gao Yunqi , Wang Qingyang , Qi Guangwei
Published: July 2024

Heavy metal contamination has long been a tough challenge. Recently, enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) has been proposed to handle this problem. This paper aims to explore the efficacy, process, and mechanisms of EICP using crude sword bean urease extracts to remediate Zn2+, Ni2+, and Cr(VI) contamination. A series of liquid batch tests and geochemical simulations, as well as microscopic analyses, were conducted. The liquid batch test results show that Zn2+, Ni2+, and Cr(VI) can be effectively immobilized by the EICP method, and the highest immobilization percentage was observed for Zn2+, reaching up to 99%. Ni2+ and Cr(VI) were immobilized at 62.4% and 24.4%, respectively. Additionally, the immobilization percentage of heavy metals increased with the concentration of added Ca2+. The simulation results and XRD results reveal that the organic molecules in crude sword bean urease can promote ZnCO3, Zn(OH)2, Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6, and NiCO3 precipitation. The FTIR and SEM-EDS results provide evidence for heavy metal adsorption by the functional groups in crude urease and calcium carbonate. The liquid batch test results, as well as the simulation results and the microscopic analysis results, indicate that the mechanism of EICP in heavy metal remediation can be summarized as biomineralization to form heavy metal carbonate precipitates and metal hydroxide precipitates, adsorption by calcium carbonate, and adsorption or complexation or promoting nucleation by organic molecules.
Correction: LaPlante et al. Ocean Temperatures Do Not Account for a Record-Setting Winter in the U.S. West. Atmosphere 2024, 15, 284
Authors: LaPlante Matthew D. , Deng Liping , Dalanhese Luthiene , Wang Shih-Yu
Published: July 2024

The corresponding author for this article [...]
Temporal Refinement of Major Primary Air Pollutant Emissions Based on Electric Power Big Data: A Case of the Cement Industry in Tangshan City
Authors: Bai Xiaoxuan , Li Peng , Zhou Weiqing , Wu Huacheng , Li Chao , Zhou Zilong
Published: July 2024

High-temporal resolution and timely emission estimates are essential for developing refined air quality management policies. Considering the advantages of extensive coverage, high reliability, and near real-time capabilities, in this work, electric power big data (EPBD) was first employed to obtain accurate hourly resolved facility-level air pollutant emissions information from the cement industries in Tangshan City, China. Then, the simulation optimization was elucidated by coupling the data with the weather research and forecasting (WRF)-community multiscale air quality (CMAQ) model. Simulation results based on estimated emissions effectively captured the hourly variation, with the NMB within ±50% for NO2 and PM2.5 and R greater than 0.6 for SO2. Hourly PM2.5 emissions from clinker production enterprises exhibited a relatively smooth pattern, whereas those from separate cement grinding stations displayed a distinct diurnal variation. Despite the remaining underestimation and/or overestimation of the simulation concentration, the emission inventory based on EPBD demonstrates an enhancement in simulation results, with RMSE, NMB, and NME decreasing by 9.6%, 15.8%, and 11.2%, respectively. Thus, the exploitation of the vast application potential of EPBD in the field of environmental protection could help to support the precise prevention and control of air pollution, with the possibility of the early achievement of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality targets in China and other developing countries.
Variations in Air Pollutant Concentrations on Dry and Wet Days with Varying Precipitation Intensity
Authors: Yavuz Veli
Published: July 2024

In this study, concentrations of three different air pollutants (PM10, SO2, and NO2) were obtained from four air quality monitoring stations (AQMSs) over an 11-year period from 2013 to 2023. Meteorological variables (temperature, dew point temperature, wind speed, sea level pressure, and precipitation) were then obtained from the nearest European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Reanalysis v5 (ERA5) grid point to each station, and their relationships were analyzed. Homogeneity and normality tests were conducted for air pollutant concentrations and meteorological variables, followed by data preprocessing analyses using non-parametric tests. The ultimate aim of this study is to determine the effects of the presence and intensity of precipitation on pollutant concentrations. Analyses based on four different precipitation intensity categories (light, moderate, heavy, and severe) indicated that increasing precipitation intensity is associated with decreasing pollutant concentrations. Specifically, higher precipitation intensities were associated with a reduction in pollutant levels, with reductions ranging from 15% to 35% compared to dry conditions. This effect was particularly pronounced during the winter season, when PM10 concentrations decreased by up to 45% on wet days compared to dry days. This finding highlighted the importance of not only precipitation intensity but also the type of hydrometeor for air pollution. The significant decrease observed during winter is thought to be due to snowfall, which is believed to have a greater removal effect on air pollution compared to rain.
An Aging-Optimized State-of-Charge-Controlled Multi-Stage Constant Current (MCC) Fast Charging Algorithm for Commercial Li-Ion Battery Based on Three-Electrode Measurements
Authors: Kalk Alexis , Leuthner Lea , Kupper Christian , Hiller Marc
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a method that leads to a highly accurate state-of-charge dependent multi-stage constant current (MCC) charging algorithm for electric bicycle batteries to reduce the charging time without accelerating aging by avoiding Li-plating. First, the relation between the current rate, state-of-charge, and Li-plating is experimentally analyzed with the help of three-electrode measurements. Therefore, a SOC-dependent charging algorithm is proposed. Secondly, a SOC estimation algorithm based on an Extended Kalman Filter is developed in MATLAB/Simulink to conduct high accuracy SOC estimations and control precisely the charging algorithm. The results of the experiments showed that the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of SOC estimation is 1.08%, and the charging time from 0% to 80% SOC is reduced by 30%.
D-sORF: Accurate Ab Initio Classification of Experimentally Detected Small Open Reading Frames (sORFs) Associated with Translational Machinery
Authors: Perdikopanis Nikos , Giannakakis Antonis , Kavakiotis Ioannis , Hatzigeorgiou Artemis G.
Published: July 2024

Small open reading frames (sORFs; <300 nucleotides or <100 amino acids) are widespread across all genomes, and an increasing variety of them appear to be translating from non-genic regions. Over the past few decades, peptides produced from sORFs have been identified as functional in various organisms, from bacteria to humans. Despite recent advances in next-generation sequencing and proteomics, accurate annotation and classification of sORFs remain a rate-limiting step toward reliable and high-throughput detection of small proteins from non-genic regions. Additionally, the cost of computational methods utilizing machine learning is lower than that of biological experiments, and they can be employed to detect sORFs, laying the groundwork for biological experiments. We present D-sORF, a machine-learning framework that integrates the statistical nucleotide context and motif information around the start codon to predict coding sORFs. D-sORF scores directly for coding identity and requires only the underlying genomic sequence, without incorporating parameters such as the conservation, which, in the case of sORFs, may increase the dispersion of scores within the significantly less conserved non-genic regions. D-sORF achieves 94.74% precision and 92.37% accuracy for small ORFs (using the 99 nt medium length window). When D-sORF is applied to sORFs associated with ribosomes, the identification of transcripts producing peptides (annotated by the Ensembl IDs) is similar to or superior to experimental methodologies based on ribosome-sequencing (Ribo-Seq) profiling. In parallel, the recognition of putative negative data, such as the intron-containing transcripts that associate with ribosomes, remains remarkably low, indicating that D-sORF could be efficiently applied to filter out false-positive sORFs from Ribo-Seq data because of the non-productive ribosomal binding or noise inherent in these protocols.