bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporomandibular Disorders Management—What’s New? A Scoping Review
Authors: Mauro Giovanni , Verdecchia Alessio , Suárez-Fernández Carlota , Nocini Riccardo , Mauro Enrico , Zerman Nicoletta
Published: May 2024

Temporomandibular disorders include various conditions that impact the masticatory system, affecting its structure, function, or physiology. Clinicians face a complex array of therapeutic options when treating this group of diseases, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the current evidence to guide decisions in patient care. The main objective of this article is to conduct a scoping review on the available treatment approaches to manage temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). An extensive search of the literature was performed on Scopus, Pubmed, Embase, and Web of Science. Systematic reviews published in the last 5 years were considered. Out of the 2183 publications identified, 109 studies were included in this review. Among them, 39 articles focused on the non-invasive approach, while 120 delved into the minimally invasive approach, and 15 explored the surgical approach. Non-invasive or conservative approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy, physical therapy, and acupuncture offer effective pain management and functional improvements in TMDs. Emerging treatments offer promising alternatives for treating these disorders. Surgery should be reserved for severe cases, with conservative therapies used in conjunction with invasive procedures for optimal patient outcomes.
Associations between Stigma, Depression, and Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Brazilian Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV
Authors: Alckmin-Carvalho Felipe , Pereira Henrique , Oliveira António , Nichiata Lucia
Published: May 2024

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a complex and multi-determined process that is influenced by psychosocial variables. Although international studies have pointed to the adverse impact of HIV stigma, sexual stigma, and depression on ART adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV, less is known about this association among Brazilians. We aimed to (a) evaluate indicators of depression, stigma related to HIV and homosexuality, and adherence to ART in a sample of Brazilian MSM living with HIV; (b) assess possible correlations between the variables analyzed, and (c) assess the impact of HIV and sexual stigma and depression on ART adherence. This cross-sectional study comprised 138 Brazilian MSM living with HIV as participants. Scales used included: a sociodemographic/clinical questionnaire, the questionnaire for assessment of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (CEAT-HIV), the Beck depression inventory (BDI-II), the internalized homophobia scale, and the HIV stigmatization scale. The mean adherence score was relatively high (78.83, within a range of 17–89 points). However, we observed inadequate ART adherence (CEAT-HIV < 75) in 28 (20.2%) respondents. Participants reported high scores for internalized sexual stigma, perceived sexual stigma in the community, and HIV stigma. Symptoms of depression were identified in 48.47% of participants. We found negative correlations between depression, HIV stigma, and treatment adherence, but not between sexual stigma and ART adherence. HIV-related stigma and sexual stigma were positively correlated with depression. Our regression analysis indicated that each year of age at diagnosis of HIV increased adherence by 0.22 points, on average. Each additional BDI-II score reduced adherence to ART by 0.20 points. The high prevalence of depression, HIV stigma, and sexual stigma, and their adverse effects on ART adherence and mental health, point to the need to implement evidence-based interventions to reduce sexual and serological stigma in the general population, as well as to mitigate the negative impacts of stigma on MSM living in HIV in Brazil. They also highlight the importance of periodically screening for these variables among MSM treated in Brazilian public health services, especially among those with inadequate adherence to ART.
Lightweight and Error-Tolerant Stereo Matching with a Stochastic Computing Processor
Authors: An Seongmo , Oh Jongwon , Lee Sangho , Kim Jinyeol , Jeong Youngwoo , Kim Jeongeun , Lee Seung Eun
Published: May 2024

Stereo matching, utilized in diverse fields, poses a challenge to systems in resource-constrained environments due to the significant growth of computational load with image resolution. The challenge is crucial for the systems because fields utilizing stereo matching require short operational time for real-time applications and low power architecture. Stochastic computing (SC) is able to be a valuable approach to address the challenge by reducing the computational load by representing binary numbers with stochastic sequences, which are encoded as a probability value, and by leveraging the concept of mathematical probability. Also, it is possible for a system to be error-tolerant by utilizing the characteristics of stochastic computing. Therefore, in this paper, we propose an approach for lightweight and error-tolerant stereo matching with a hardware-implemented stochastic computing processor. To verify the feasibility and error tolerance of the proposed system, we implemented the proposed system and conducted experiments comparing depth maps with or without stochastic computing by calculating similarities. According to the experimental results, the proposed system indicated no significant differences in output depth maps and achieved an improvement in the depth maps from error-injected input images by an average of 58.95%. Therefore, we demonstrated that stereo matching with stochastic computing is feasible and error-tolerant.
Next-Generation Spam Filtering: Comparative Fine-Tuning of LLMs, NLPs, and CNN Models for Email Spam Classification
Authors: Roumeliotis Konstantinos I. , Tselikas Nikolaos D. , Nasiopoulos Dimitrios K.
Published: May 2024

Spam emails and phishing attacks continue to pose significant challenges to email users worldwide, necessitating advanced techniques for their efficient detection and classification. In this paper, we address the persistent challenges of spam emails and phishing attacks by introducing a cutting-edge approach to email filtering. Our methodology revolves around harnessing the capabilities of advanced language models, particularly the state-of-the-art GPT-4 Large Language Model (LLM), along with BERT and RoBERTa Natural Language Processing (NLP) models. Through meticulous fine-tuning tailored for spam classification tasks, we aim to surpass the limitations of traditional spam detection systems, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). Through an extensive literature review, experimentation, and evaluation, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in accurately identifying spam and phishing emails while minimizing false positives. Our methodology showcases the potential of fine-tuning LLMs for specialized tasks like spam classification, offering enhanced protection against evolving spam and phishing attacks. This research contributes to the advancement of spam filtering techniques and lays the groundwork for robust email security systems in the face of increasingly sophisticated threats.
Aging Characterization of Modified Insulating Paper Based on the Transmission Characteristics of Microstrip Resonant Sensors
Authors: Xiao Mi , Yang Gaoyan , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the aging characterization of a kind of insulating paper modified by magnetron sputtering MgO particles based on a microstrip resonant sensor was presented. Firstly, the modified insulating paper with 0, 15 and 30 min MgO particle sputtering times was prepared by a magnetron sputtering device. After that, the properties of the modified insulating paper with different sputtering times were analyzed through microscopic characterization, infrared spectrum, polymerization degree, dielectric constant, AC breakdown strength and thermal aging experiments. The results show that the dielectric constant of the modified insulating paper decreased obviously, the AC breakdown strength increased and the thermal aging resistance was better after 15 min of sputtering. The overall performance of the modified insulating paper after 30 min of sputtering is reduced due to excessive sputtering. In addition, microstrip resonant sensors are introduced to characterize the thermal aging degree of the modified insulating paper, and two microstrip resonant sensors are prepared: a complementary split ring resonator (CSRR) and an interdigital-capacitor-shaped defected ground structure resonator (IDCS-DGS). The resonance frequency deviation of the modified insulating paper samples after aging was measured by microstrip resonance sensors to show the influence of aging temperature on aging degree. The experimental results show that the test results of the microstrip resonance sensors are in good agreement with the traditional characterization methods and can characterize the various aging stages of the modified insulating paper to a certain extent, which proves the feasibility of the characterization method.
Review of Recent Applications of Heat Pipe Heat Exchanger Use for Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Ding Yi , Guo Qiang , Guo Wenyuan , Chu Wenxiao , Wang Qiuwang
Published: May 2024

With the reduction in fossil fuels and growing concerns about global warming, energy has become one of the most important issues facing humanity. It is crucial to improve energy utilization efficiency and promote a low-carbon transition. In comparison with traditional heat exchangers, heat pipe heat exchangers indicate high compactness, a flexible arrangement, complete separation of hot and cold fluids, good isothermal operations, etc. As a result, heat pipe heat exchangers have attracted wide attention and application in various fields in recent years. This paper provides an overview of the application of heat pipe heat exchangers, with a focus on the application in waste heat recovery, and analyzes the opportunities and challenges of heat pipe heat exchanger applications based on existing publications.
Electrical Power Systems Reinforcement through Overall Contingency Index Analysis and Improvement
Authors: Romero Diego , Carrión Diego , Jaramillo Manuel
Published: May 2024

This paper analyzes the behavior of an electrical power system when N-1 contingencies occur in the transmission stage, which can be produced by incorrect operation of the protection relays, phenomena of natural origin, or increased loadability, which affect the operation and reliability of the electrical system. The operation output of a transmission line results in the variation of the nominal values of the electrical parameters involved because they disturb the stability of the generation, transmission systems, and the supply of electrical energy to the loads, such as voltages and angles of the nodes and the active and reactive power of the system. The proposed methodology was based on analyzing the different electrical parameters of the power system, quantifying the contingency index in a state of regular operation, and comparing it to operation in contingency N-1, with which the most severe contingency was determined and, therefore, achieved; identifying contingencies that can cause system collapses; improving the contingency index from 23.08555 to 22.9276624 for the L16–19 contingency and to 22.9795235 for the L21–22 contingency, which are the most severe contingencies determined with the proposed methodology. To test the proposed methodology, the IEEE 39 bus-bar test system was considered, and the elements that should be implemented to avoid the vulnerability of the power system to N-1 contingencies were determined.
Dynamic Response Study of Overhead Contact System Portal Structure Based on Vehicle–Track–Bridge Coupled Vibration
Authors: Li Tao , Zhao Xia
Published: May 2024

In light of the rapid development of electrified railways, the safety and stability of train operations, as well as the catenary’s interaction with current quality, have garnered widespread attention. Electrified train operation with additional track irregularities serves as a principal excitation source within the vehicle–bridge–catenary system, significantly influencing the vibration characteristics of the system. Addressing the aforementioned issues, we first established the vehicle–track dynamics model and the bridge–catenary finite element model based on the principles of coupled dynamics of the vehicle–track system. These models are interconnected using dynamic forces between the wheel and rail. Subsequently, within the vehicle–track coupled system, track random irregularities are introduced as input excitations for the coupled model, and the dynamic response of the system is simulated and solved. Then, the obtained wheel–rail forces are applied to the bridge–catenary coupled system finite element model in the form of time-varying moving load forces. Finally, the dynamic response characteristics of the catenary portal structure under different conditions are determined. Meanwhile, a study on the vibration characteristics of the truss-type pillar portal structure was conducted, and the results were compared with those of existing models. The results indicate that the vertical and lateral forces between the vehicle and track are positively correlated with the speed and irregularity amplitude. Response values such as the derailment coefficient and wheel load reduction rate are within the specified range of relevant standards. The low-order natural resonant frequency of the truss-type pillar structure has, on average, increased by 0.86 compared to the existing pillar structure, which signifies improved stability. Furthermore, under various conditions, the average reductions in maximum displacement and stress response of this pillar structure are 13.2% and 14.19%, respectively, in comparison to the existing pillar structure, rendering it more suitable for practical engineering applications.
Nonlinear Impact of Topological Configuration of Coupled Inverter-Based Resources on Interaction Harmonics Levels of Power Flow
Authors: Safarishaal Masoud , Hemmati Rasul , Saeed Kandezy Reza , Jiang John N. , Lin Chenxi , Wu Di
Published: May 2024

The increasing level of harmonics in the power grid, driven by a substantial presence of coupled inverter-based energy resources (IBRs), poses a new challenge to power grid transient stability. This paper presents the findings from experiments and analytical studies on the impact of the topological configuration of coupled IBRs on the level of power flow harmonics in a distribution grid: (i) our findings report that the impact of grid topology on harmonics is nonlinear, which is in contrast to the common perception that the power grid operates as a large linear low-pass filter for harmonics; (ii) importantly, this study highlights that the influence of the topological configuration of inverters on the reduction of system-level harmonics is more substantial than the effect of line impedance, emphasizing the significance of grid topological configuration; (iii) furthermore, the observed reduction in harmonics is attributed to a harmonic cancellation effect achieved through self-compensation by all the coupled inverters without affecting the active power flow in the power grid. These findings propose a new approach to limit the penetration of complex IBR harmonics in the power grid from a system-wide perspective. This approach significantly differs from the component-level or localized solutions used today, such as inverter control, power filtering, and transformer tap changes.
A Long-Term Power Supply Risk Evaluation Method for China Regional Power System Based on Probabilistic Production Simulation
Authors: Hu Jianzu , Wang Yuefeng , Cheng Fan , Shi Hanqing
Published: May 2024

To qualify the risk of extreme weather events for power supply security during the long-term power system transformation process, this paper proposes a risk probability evaluation method based on probabilistic production simulation. Firstly, the internal relationship of extreme weather intensity and duration is depicted using the copula function, and the influences of extreme weather on power security are described using the guaranteed power output ability coefficient, which can provide the extreme scenario basis for probabilistic production simulation. Then, a probabilistic production simulation method is proposed, which includes a typical-year scenario and extreme weather events. Meanwhile, an index system is proposed to qualify the power security level, which applies the loss of load expectation (LOLE) and time of loss of load expectation (TOLE) under different scenarios and other indices to reveal the long-term power security trend. Finally, the long-term power supply risks for the Yunnan provincial power system are analyzed using the proposed method, validating that the proposed method is capable of characterizing the influences of extreme weather on power security. The security level of different long-term power transformation schemes is evaluated.
The Impact of Green Finance and Financial Technology on Regional Green Energy Technological Innovation Based on the Dual Machine Learning and Spatial Econometric Models
Authors: Xie Mingyue , Zhao Suning , Lv Kun
Published: May 2024

Regional green energy technological innovation is an important means to alleviate economic–environmental contradictions. The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanisms of green finance, financial technology, and regional green energy technological innovation. In this study, we constructed dual machine learning models, spatial econometric models, and panel threshold effect models to investigate the effects of green finance and financial technology on regional green energy technological innovation, using panel data from 266 cities nationwide from 2009 to 2021. The research findings are as follows: (1) Both green finance and financial technology significantly promote regional green energy technological innovation. (2) Based on a spatial weight matrix embedded in economic geography, both green finance and financial technology generate positive spatial spillover effects on regional green energy technological innovation. (3) The interaction between green finance and financial technology significantly contributes to regional green energy technological innovation. Financial technology can strengthen the positive local and neighboring effects of green finance on regional green energy technological innovation. (4) Based on the threshold effect of financial technology, green finance cannot significantly promote regional green energy technological innovation when financial technology is in an underdeveloped stage. With the advancement of financial technology, green finance continues to have a positive impact on regional green energy technological innovation. Based on this analysis and our conclusions, we propose practical policy recommendations that can provide a more sustainable approach to green energy technology innovation.
Evaluation of Biohydrogen Production Depending on the Substrate Used—Examples for the Development of Green Energy
Authors: Jarosz Zbigniew , Kapłan Magdalena , Klimek Kamila , Anders Dorota , Dybek Barbara , Herkowiak Marcin , Hołaj-Krzak Jakub T. , Syrotyuk Serhiy , Korobka Serhiy , Syrotyuk Hanna , Wałowski Grzegorz
Published: May 2024

Biohydrogen production is a promising alternative to replace fossil fuels in an environmentally friendly way. In addition to the many available renewable energy sources, the production of “colored” hydrogen and biohydrogen occupies an irreplaceable position due to the undeniable availability of biomass and the need to manage food waste (FW). This article presents the current state of biohydrogen production technology—examples on continents (America, Africa, Asia, Australia and Oceania) and in Europe in terms of the efficiency of dark methane fermentation (CH4). Biophotolysis processes leading to the production of biohydrogen are indicated: directly and indirectly. The mechanism of the fermentation process of obtaining hydrogen and two-stage hydrogen fermentation are presented. The novelty of this article is the development of innovative trends in the development of the biohydrogen industry in Europe. Various models of the biohydrogen process are presented for different raw materials and proportions of substrates used in co-fermenters. Researchers from China are the undisputed pioneers in the use of renewable energy sources. However, improved energy self-sufficiency and environmental impacts are reflected in the growing number of pilot installations operating in European countries. This also gives hope for rapid progress towards full animal and FW management also in Poland.
NACA 2412 Drag Reduction Using V-Shaped Riblets
Authors: Selvanose Smitha Mol , Marimuthu Siva , Awan Abdul Waheed , Daniel Kamran
Published: May 2024

This research focuses on addressing a significant concern in the aviation industry, which is drag. The primary objective of this project is to achieve drag reduction through the implementation of riblets on a wing featuring the NACA 2412 aerofoil, operating at subsonic speeds. Riblets, with the flow direction on wing surfaces, have demonstrated the potential to effectively decrease drag in diverse applications. This investigation includes computational analysis within the ANSYS Workbench framework, employing a polyhedral mesh model. The scope of this research encompasses the analysis of both a conventional wing and a modified wing with riblets. A comparative analysis is conducted to assess variations in drag values between the two configurations. Parameters, including geometry, dimensions, and riblet placement at varying angles of attack, are explored to comprehend their impact on drag reduction. Notably, 15.6% and 23% reductions in drag were identified at a 16-degree angle of attack with midspan and three-riblet models, separately. The computational mesh and method were validated using appropriate techniques.
Are Low Emission Zones Truly Embraced by the Public?
Authors: Andriolli Ana Claudia , Silva Lígia Torres
Published: May 2024

Rapid urbanization and car-centric mobility solutions have resulted in the degradation of environmental urban quality, impacting people’s health and well-being and city economies and harming urban ecosystems. Faced with the need to tackle traffic pollution, more than 300 low emission zones (LEZs) have been implemented, causing some social controversy. Nonetheless, researchers have focused their studies on evaluating LEZ efficacy towards urban congestion and air pollutants reduction, health and well-being improvement. This study presents a literature review of what is known about acceptability and acceptance of the population regarding the implementation of LEZs, along with the main issues, best practices, and suggestions to promote a better perception and mobility behavior change. Based on research conducted in the Web of Science and Scopus databases, only 36 of 540 peer-reviewed articles on LEZs address public attitudes. Among the main findings, the following stand out: the existing gap in environmental urban quality approaches between countries, namely the Global North; the existence of few studies that evaluate perceptions before and after LEZ implementation; the lack of LEZ studies that consider noise and biodiversity, seeking a broader approach to this measure; and the importance of developing a support package measures that involves affected stakeholders and are adapted to each city’s characteristics.
An Evaluation of the Influence of Meteorological Factors and a Pollutant Emission Inventory on PM2.5 Prediction in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region Based on a Deep Learning Method
Authors: Shi Xiaofei , Li Bo , Gao Xiaoxiao , Yabo Stephen Dauda , Wang Kun , Qi Hong , Ding Jie , Fu Donglei , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2024

In this study, a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network approach is employed to evaluate the prediction performance of PM2.5 in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region (BTH). The proposed method is evaluated using the hourly air quality datasets from the China National Environmental Monitoring Center, European Center for Medium-range Weather Forecasts ERA5 (ECMWF-ERA5), and Multi-resolution Emission Inventory for China (MEIC) for the years 2016 and 2017. The predicted PM2.5 concentrations demonstrate a strong correlation with the observed values (R2 = 0.871–0.940) in the air quality dataset. Furthermore, the model exhibited the best performance in situations of heavy pollution (PM2.5 > 150 μg/m3) and during the winter season, with respective R2 values of 0.689 and 0.915. In addition, the influence of ECMWF-ERA5’s hourly meteorological factors was assessed, and the results revealed regional heterogeneity on a large scale. Further evaluation was conducted by analyzing the chemical components of the MEIC inventory on the prediction performance. We concluded that the same temporal profile may not be suitable for addressing emission inventories in a large area with a deep learning method.
Chemical Composition of Larch Oleoresin before and during Thermal Modification
Authors: Spear Morwenna J. , Dimitriou Athanasios , Marriott Ray
Published: May 2024

Larch is a strong timber, which grows rapidly in the UK climate, but can contain abundant resin pockets. To address the resin exudation issue, a mild thermal modification process has been developed, promoting the curing of the resin. This paper reports a series of studies which characterised the chemical profile of larch oleoresin before and after the mild thermal treatment, explaining the changes which occur when resin is dried. Further experiments were used to simulate specific points in time during the mild treatment process. The non-polar components of the fresh (untreated) and treated larch oleoresin were profiled using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Fresh larch oleoresin was also subjected to isothermal experiments at different temperatures in a thermogravimetric analyser–differential scanning calorimeter (TGA/DSC), followed by re-analysing the resin composition. This demonstrated the loss of monoterpenes at temperatures of 120 °C and above, with complete loss by isothermal conditions of 150 °C and 60 min. The partial loss of sesquiterpene alkanes and alkenes were also observed at all temperatures, although completeness of this loss was achieved at isothermal temperatures of 150 °C and above. The diterpene composition was seen to change for isothermal experiments conducted at 150 °C and above, with a dehydration of terpenols to form the equivalent terpene alkenes. The observed physical changes in the TGA/DSC experiment were in good agreement with observations of the oleoresin sampled from thermally modified larch planks.
Restoration Strategies in the Heidaigou Open-Pit Mine Dump Based on Water Sources and Plant Water Utilization
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Long , Zhang Liang , Li Qiang , Liu Kun
Published: May 2024

In this study, three typical plants capable of restoring in the Heidaigou open-pit mine dump, namely, Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica, Caragana korshinskii, and Medicago sativa, were taken as the research objects. The δ2H and δ18O values of atmospheric precipitation, soil water, stem water, and leaf water were measured using the stable isotope technique, and the distribution characteristics of the δ2H and δ18O values of different water sources were identified. The IsoSource model (version1.3.1) was used to calculate the contribution rate of different water sources to the plants, and the differences and dynamic changes in the water sources for P. sylvestris var. mongolica, C. korshinskii, and M. sativa during the rainy season were examined. Results showed that the water source of the three plants was found to be mainly soil water, and the utilization of each potential water source varied in different periods of the rainy season. In June, when SWC was sufficient, P. sylvestris var. mongolica and M. sativa primarily absorbed and utilized shallow and middle soil water, with relative utilization ratios of 55.5% and 59%, respectively, while C. korshinskii has a more balanced utilization ratio of soil water in each layer, with shallow soil water utilization at 33.7%, middle soil water at 34.2%, and deep soil water at 32.2%. In August, when SWC decreased, P. sylvestris var. mongolica, C. korshinskii, and M. sativa were all transferred to deep soil water, with utilization ratios of 75.8%, 78.8%, and 71.1%, respectively. The values showed that these three typical plants are capable of restoring can respond to external water changes through the plastic transformation of water absorption sources. Among them, C. korshinskii can flexibly use soil water in each layer, has stronger survival competitiveness in drought, and can better adapt to the fragile ecological environment of a mining dump.
Monitoring Changes in Composition and Diversity of Forest Vegetation Layers after the Cessation of Management for Renaturalization
Authors: Ma Yuhua , Wei Jingya , Wang Wenjing , Huang Cheng , Feng Chun , Xu Duanyang , Haider Fasih Ullah , Li Xu
Published: May 2024

Overstory and understory vegetation play a vital role in forest ecosystem functionality. However, it is necessary to enhance the knowledge of their diversity and compositional dynamics following cessation of disturbance, which is required to inform restoration approaches and the mechanisms required for maintaining disturbance cessation. We conducted a chronosequence spanning 0–1, 5–6, 11–12, 20–24, and 28–34 years since disturbance cessation, and old-growth forests to investigate the dynamic changes in overstory and understory vegetation diversity and composition, as well as maintenance mechanisms following the cessation of anthropogenic disturbances in subtropical regions of Eastern China. The current study results indicated a decrease in understory cover and periodic fluctuations in the diversity of overstorey and understory vegetation following disturbance cessation efforts. Specifically, the shrub layer exhibited the highest richness in 28–34 years, while the herb layer showed the lowest evenness. Multivariate analysis using multiple-response permutation procedures indicated that the species composition and interspecific quantity ratio of understory plants in the forest at 28–34 years significantly differ from those in the early closure stage. An indicator species analysis revealed that more support was given to sun-loving plants after 0–1 years of the enclosure, while species with shade tolerance and low nutrient requirements were supported after 28–34 years. The structural equation model results show that 38.8% of the impact on herb evenness was related to light and substrate diversity. The ecological restoration time mainly indirectly affects understory vegetation by influencing the upper vegetation, light availability, and substrate heterogeneity. Overall, this study revealed that cessation of anthropogenic disturbance can maintain and care for understorey plant diversity and contribute to the sustainable management of forests.
Intraspecific Trait Variation Regulates Biodiversity and Community Productivity of Shrublands in Drylands
Authors: Du Lan , Tian Shengchuan , Zhao Nan , Zhang Bin , Mu Xiaohan , Tang Lisong , Zheng Xinjun , Li Yan
Published: May 2024

Intraspecific variation (Intra-V) has played an important role in determining the responses of ecosystem functions to climate change. However, its specific role in the regulation of ecosystem functions during community assembly is less investigated. In this study, we conducted a transect survey in northwest China and determined different plant functional types, namely resource-conservative, medium, and resource-acquisitive strategies, which describe resource-use strategies of plants in multi-functional dimensions. Plant functional traits including canopy, wood density (WD), height, specific leaf area (SLA), and leaf nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations were determined. Ecological filters, including external filtering (assembly processes at the regional scale), internal filtering (assembly processes within a certain community), and functional redundancy, were employed to examine plant environment interactions. We found that with the decrease in environmental pressure, dominant shrub plants changed from conservative to acquisition species in drylands. Specifically, a benign environment (such as stable and adequate precipitation, loose soil, and increased acid deposition) significantly increased plant mean traits, such as SLA and WD of shrubs, especially for conservative strategy plants. In addition, a benign environment mainly reduced the functional redundancy of SLA (FRedSLA) by strengthening internal filtering and, ultimately, increased aboveground biomass but decreased species richness. Our results suggest that conservative strategy plants with stronger adaptability to the external environment may exhibit more competitive advantages and play a more important role in community construction under future climate scenarios of gradual warming and wetting in northwest China. Our results also revealed that trait-based Intra-V may be a more reasonable ecological filter than plant mean traits for predicting the structure and function of dryland ecosystems.
A Meta-Analysis of 3-Nitrooxypropanol Dietary Supplementation on Growth Performance, Ruminal Fermentation, and Enteric Methane Emissions of Beef Cattle
Authors: Orzuna-Orzuna José Felipe , Godina-Rodríguez Juan Eduardo , Garay-Martínez Jonathan Raúl , Granados-Rivera Lorenzo Danilo , Maldonado-Jáquez Jorge Alonso , Lara-Bueno Alejandro
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) on growth performance, ruminal fermentation, and enteric methane emissions of beef cattle using a meta-analytic approach. The final meta-analysis database included results from 15 scientific articles. The response variables were analyzed through random effects models, where the results were reported as weighted mean differences (WMD) between the treatments without 3-NOP and those supplemented with 3-NOP. The dietary inclusion of 3-NOP decreased (p < 0.001) dry matter intake but did not affect (p > 0.05) average daily gain and increased (p < 0.05) feed efficiency. In the rumen, 3-NOP supplementation increased (p < 0.01) the pH and ruminal concentration of propionate, butyrate, valerate, isobutyrate, and isovalerate. In contrast, dietary supplementation with 3-NOP decreased (p < 0.001) the rumen concentration of ammonia nitrogen, total volatile fatty acids, acetate, and the acetate/propionate ratio. Furthermore, daily methane (CH4) emission, CH4 yield, and CH4 emission as a percentage of gross energy ingested decreased (p < 0.001) in response to 3-NOP dietary supplementation. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 3-nitrooxypropanol can be used as a nutritional strategy to improve feed efficiency and ruminal fermentation in beef cattle and, at the same time, reduce enteric methane emissions.
HP-LSTM: Hawkes Process–LSTM-Based Detection of DDoS Attack for In-Vehicle Network
Authors: Li Xingyu , Li Ruifeng , Liu Yanchen
Published: May 2024

Connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) are advancing at a fast speed with the improvement of the automotive industry, which opens up new possibilities for different attacks. A Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacker floods the in-vehicle network with fake messages, resulting in the failure of driving assistance systems and impairment of vehicle control functionalities, seriously disrupting the normal operation of the vehicle. In this paper, we propose a novel DDoS attack detection method for in-vehicle Ethernet Scalable service-Oriented Middleware over IP (SOME/IP), which integrates the Hawkes process with Long Short-Term Memory networks (LSTMs) to capture the dynamic behavioral features of the attacker. Specifically, we employ the Hawkes process to capture features of the DDoS attack, with its parameters reflecting the dynamism and self-exciting properties of the attack events. Subsequently, we propose a novel deep learning network structure, an HP-LSTM block, inspired by the Hawkes process, while employing a residual attention block to enhance the model’s detection efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, due to the scarcity of publicly available datasets for SOME/IP, we employed a mature SOME/IP generator to create a dataset for evaluating the validity of the proposed detection model. Finally, extensive experiments were conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed DDoS attack detection method.
Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Analysis of Flame Spread Dynamics over Discrete Thermally Thin Fuels with Various Inclination Angles and Gap Sizes
Authors: Zhang Xiaoliang , Kuang Shibing , Zhao Yanli , Zhang Jun , Luo Shengfeng
Published: May 2024

Flame spread over discrete fuels is a typical phenomenon in fire scenes. Experimental and theoretical research on flame spread over discrete thermally thin fuels separated by air gaps with different inclination angles was conducted in the present study. Experiments with six inclination angles ranging from 0° to 85° and various fuel coverage rates from 0.421 to 1 were designed. The flame spread behavior, the characteristic flame size, and the flame spread rate were analyzed. The results show that the flow pattern, stability, and flame size exhibit different characteristics with different inclination angles and gap sizes. As the inclination angle increases, particularly with smaller gaps, turbulent and oscillating flames are observed, while larger gap sizes promote flame stability. The mechanism of flame propagation across the gap depends on the interplay between the flame jump effect and heat transfer, which evolves with gap size. Average flame height, average flame width, and flame spread rate initially increase and then decline with the increase in fuel coverage, peaking at fuel coverage rates between 0.93 and 0.571 for different inclination angles. A theoretical model is proposed to predict the flame spread rate and the variation in the flame spread rate with inclination angle and fuel coverage. Furthermore, the map determined by inclination angle and fuel coverage is partitioned into distinct regions, comprising the accelerated flame spread region, the flame spread weakening region, and the failed flame spread region. These findings provide valuable insights into flame spread dynamics over discrete thermally thin fuels under diverse conditions.
Quantifying Variability in Zebrafish Larvae Locomotor Behavior across Experimental Conditions: A Learning-Based Tracker
Authors: Zhang Zhuo , Chai Xinyu , Si Guoning , Zhang Xuping
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the effects of environmental changes on zebrafish larval behavior, using single-factor and orthogonal experiments to assess locomotion during temperature and pH changes. In single-factor experiments, zebrafish larvae were exposed to variations in temperature (22 to 30 °C) and pH levels (6.0, 7.0, 9.0). The simultaneous temperature and pH changes were investigated by orthogonal tests. In both experiments, each zebrafish larva was recorded in three 5 min videos at different stages (before exposure, during short-term exposure (10 min), and after long-term exposure (60 min)). You Look Only Once (YOLOv5) and Deep Simple Online Real Time Tracking (DeepSORT) models were adopted to develop a zebrafish larva tracking system, and YOLOv5 was improved in two aspects of anchor clustering and network structure. The tracking accuracy of the tracking system for small targets effectively improved, reaching more than 98% MOTA (Multiple Object Tracking Accuracy). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed to extract three behavioral features from 13 motion parameters, namely motion activity, edge behavior, and motion direction preference. Our findings reveal that lower temperatures and acidic conditions both led to a decrease in motion behavioral activity, and the former also increased edge behavior. Conversely, elevated temperatures and alkaline conditions had a muted impact on these behaviors. Interestingly, concurrent changes in temperature and pH significantly altered directional preference. Additionally, we observed that lower temperatures elicited distinct temporal behavioral patterns at a constant pH level. In summary, we recommend the precise control and explicit reporting of ambient temperature and pH in both breeding devices and experimental wells to minimize the environmental impact on zebrafish behavior and enhance experiment repeatability and reliability.
Novel Pour Point Depressants for Crude Oil Derived from Polyethylene Solution in Hexane and Coal Fly Ash
Authors: Nadirov Kazim , Zhantasov Manap , Ketegenov Tlek , Nadirova Zhanna , Batkal Aisulu , Kamunur Kaster , Bimbetova Gulmira , Nadirov Rashid
Published: May 2024

Oil transportation becomes much more complicated due to the solidification of paraffins in them at low temperatures and the resulting increase in oil viscosity. To solve this problem, special additives as pour point depressants (PPDs) are used to prevent the agglomeration of paraffin crystals. In this work, 15 PPDs were obtained and tested, consisting of a solution of polyethylene in hexane and also, in some cases, from magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) extracted from coal fly ash. The most effective result was observed with a mixture of 0.25% polyethylene in hexane and 2% MNPs, which managed to lower the oil’s pour point from 18 °C to −17 °C.
Biological Activity of Lactic Acid Bacteria Exopolysaccharides and Their Applications in the Food and Pharmaceutical Industries
Authors: Liang Shengnan , Wang Xinyu , Li Chun , Liu Libo
Published: May 2024

Exopolysaccharides are natural macromolecular bioactive substances produced by lactic acid bacteria. With their unique physiological activity and structural characteristics, they are gradually showing broad application prospects in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Exopolysaccharides have various biological functions, such as exerting antioxidant and anti-tumor activities and regulating gut microbiota. Meanwhile, as a food additive, exopolysaccharides can significantly enhance the taste and quality of food, bringing consumers a better eating experience. In the field of medicine, exopolysaccharides have been widely used as drug carriers due to their non-toxic properties and good biocompatibility. This article summarizes the biological activities of exopolysaccharides produced by lactic acid bacteria, their synthesis, and their applications in food and pharmaceutical industries, aiming to promote further research and development in this field.
From Extraction to Stabilization: Employing a 22 Experimental Design in Developing Nutraceutical-Grade Bixin from Bixa orellana L.
Authors: Luna-Finkler Christine L. , Gomes Aralí da C. , de Aguiar Júnior Francisco C. A. , Ribeiro Ester , de Melo Barbosa Raquel , Severino Patricia , Santini Antonello , Souto Eliana B.
Published: May 2024

Bixin is the main carotenoid found in the outer portion of the seeds of Bixa orellana L., commercially known as annatto. This compound is industrially employed in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food formulations as a natural dye to replace chemical additives. This study aimed to extract bixin from annatto seeds and obtain encapsulated bixin in a powder form, using freeze-drying encapsulation and maltodextrin as encapsulating agent. Bixin was extracted from annatto seeds employing successive washing with organic solvents, specifically hexane and methanol (1:1 v/v), followed by ethyl acetate and dichloromethane for subsequent washes, to effectively remove impurities and enhance bixin purity, and subsequent purification by crystallization, reaching 1.5 ± 0.2% yield (or approximately 15 mg of bixin per gram of seeds). Bixin was analyzed spectrophotometrically in different organic solvents (ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, dimethylsulfoxide, chloroform, hexane), and the solvents chosen were chloroform (used to solubilize bixin during microencapsulation) and hexane (used for spectrophotometric determination of bixin). Bixin was encapsulated according to a 22 experimental design to investigate the influence of the concentration of maltodextrin (20 to 40%) and bixin-to-matrix ratio (1:20 to 1:40) on the encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and solubility of the encapsulated powder. Higher encapsulation efficiency was obtained at a maltodextrin concentration of 40% w/v and a bixin/maltodextrin ratio of 1:20, while higher solubility was observed at a maltodextrin concentration of 20% w/v for the same bixin/maltodextrin ratio. The encapsulation of this carotenoid by means of freeze-drying is thus recognized as an innovative and promising approach to improve its stability for further processing in pharmaceutical and food applications.
The Effect of Type 2 Resistant Starch and Indole-3-Propionic Acid on Ameliorating High-Fat-Diet-Induced Hepatic Steatosis and Gut Dysbiosis
Authors: Yang Min , Cai Wanhao , Li Xinxin , Deng Yixuan , Li Jinjun , Wang Xin , Zhu Liying , Wang Chong , Li Xiaoqiong
Published: May 2024

Owing to the interplay of genetic and environmental factors, obesity has emerged as a significant global public health concern. To gain enhanced control over obesity, we examined the effects of type 2 resistant starch (RS2) and its promoted microbial-derived metabolite, indole-3-propionic acid (IPA), on hepatic steatosis, antioxidant activity, and gut microbiota in obese mice. Neither RS2 nor low-dose IPA (20 mg kg−1) exhibited a reduction in body weight or improved glucose and lipid metabolism in post-obesity state mice continuously fed the high-fat diet (HFD). However, both interventions improved hepatic steatosis, with RS2 being more effective in all measured parameters, potentially due to changes in gut microbiota and metabolites not solely attributed to IPA. LC-MS/MS analysis revealed increased serum IPA levels in both RS2 and IPA groups, which positively correlated with Bifidobacterium and Clostridium. Moreover, RS2 exhibited a more significant restoration of gut dysbiosis by promoting the abundance of health-promoting bacteria including Faecalibaculum and Bifidobacterium. These findings suggest that the regulatory role of RS2 on tryptophan metabolism only partially explains its prebiotic activity. Future studies should consider increasing the dose of IPA and combining RS2 and IPA to explore their potential interventions in obesity.
Fuzzy Subordination Results for Meromorphic Functions Connected with a Linear Operator
Authors: Ali Ekram E. , Vivas-Cortez Miguel , El-Ashwah Rabha M. , Albalahi Abeer M.
Published: May 2024

The concept of subordination is expanded in this study from the fuzzy sets theory to the geometry theory of analytic functions with a single complex variable. This work aims to clarify fuzzy subordination as a notion and demonstrate its primary attributes. With this work’s assistance, new fuzzy differential subordinations will be presented. The first theorems lead to intriguing corollaries for specific aspects chosen to exhibit fuzzy best dominance. The work introduces a new integral operator for meromorphic functions and uses the newly developed integral operator, which is starlike and convex, respectively, to obtain conclusions on fuzzy differential subordination.