bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autonomous Drone Electronics Amplified with Pontryagin-Based Optimization
Authors: Xu Jiahao , Sands Timothy
Published: June 2023

In the era of electrification and artificial intelligence, direct current motors are widely utilized with numerous innovative adaptive and learning methods. Traditional methods utilize model-based algebraic techniques with system identification, such as recursive least squares, extended least squares, and autoregressive moving averages. The new method known as deterministic artificial intelligence employs physical-based process dynamics to achieve target trajectory tracking. There are two common autonomous trajectory-generation algorithms: sinusoidal function- and Pontryagin-based generation algorithms. The Pontryagin-based optimal trajectory with deterministic artificial intelligence for DC motors is proposed and its performance compared for the first time in this paper. This paper aims to simulate model following and deterministic artificial intelligence methods using the sinusoidal and Pontryagin methods and to compare the differences in their performance when following the challenging step function slew maneuver.
AV PV-RCNN: Improving 3D Object Detection with Adaptive Deformation and VectorPool Aggregation
Authors: Guan Shijie , Wan Chenyang , Jiang Yueqiu
Published: June 2023

Three-dimensional object detection has attracted more and more attention from industry and academia due to its wide application in various fields such as autonomous driving and robotics. Currently, the refinement methods used by advanced two-stage detectors cannot fully adapt to different object scales, different point cloud densities, partial deformation and clutter, and excessive resource consumption. We propose a point cloud-based 3D object detection method that can adapt to different object scales and aggregate local features with less resources. The method first passes through an adaptive deformation module based on a 2D deformable convolutional network, which can adaptively collect instance-specific features from where the information content exists. Secondly, through a VectorPool aggregation module, this module can better aggregate local point features with less resource consumption. Finally, through a context fusion module, the key points can filter out relevant context information for the refinement stage. Our proposed detection method not only achieves better accuracy on the KITTI dataset, but also consumes less resources than the original detectors and has faster inference speed.
Energy Efficient Load-Balancing Mechanism in Integrated IoT–Fog–Cloud Environment
Authors: Vijarania Meenu , Gupta Swati , Agrawal Akshat , Adigun Matthew O. , Ajagbe Sunday Adeola , Awotunde Joseph Bamidele
Published: June 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing have revolutionized the technological era unabatedly. These technologies have impacted our lives to a great extent. The traditional cloud model faces a variety of complications with the colossal growth of IoT and cloud applications, such as network instability, reduced bandwidth, and high latency. Fog computing is utilized to get around these problems, which brings IoT devices and cloud computing closer. Hence, to enhance system, process, and data performance, fog nodes are planted to disperse the load on cloud servers using fog computing, which helps reduce delay time and network traffic. Firstly, in this article, we highlight the various IoT–fog–cloud models for distributing the load uniformly. Secondly, an efficient solution is provided using fog computing for balancing load among fog devices. A performance evaluation of the proposed mechanism with existing techniques shows that the proposed strategy improves performance, energy consumption, throughput, and resource utilization while reducing response time.
Critic-Only Learning Based Tracking Control for Uncertain Nonlinear Systems with Prescribed Performance
Authors: Gao Yanping , Liu Zuojun
Published: June 2023

A critic-only learning-based tracking control with prescribed performance was proposed for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems. Based on an estimator and an optimal controller, a novel controller was designed to make tracking errors uniformly ultimately bounded and limited in a prescribed region. First, an unknown system dynamic estimator was employed online to approximate the uncertainty with an invariant manifold. Subsequently, by running a novel cost function, an optimal controller was derived by online learning with a critic-only neural network, which ensured that tracking errors can evolve within a prescribed area while minimizing the cost function. Specifically, weight update can be driven by weight estimation error, avoiding introducing an actor-critic architecture with a complicated law. At last, the stability of a closed-loop system was analyzed by Lyapunov theorem, and tracking errors evolved within prescribed performance with the optimal controller. The effectiveness of the proposed control can be demonstrated by two examples.
A TEDE Algorithm Studies the Effect of Dataset Grouping on Supervised Learning Accuracy
Authors: Wang Xufei , Wang Penghui , Song Jeongyoung , Hao Taotao , Duan Xinlu
Published: June 2023

Datasets are the basis for research on deep learning methods in computer vision. The impact of the percentage of training sets in a dataset on the performance of neural network models needs to be further explored. In this paper, a twice equal difference enumeration (TEDE) algorithm is proposed to investigate the effect of different training set percentages in the dataset on the performance of the network model, and the optimal training set percentage is determined. By selecting the Pascal VOC dataset and dividing it into six different datasets from largest to smallest, and then dividing each dataset into the datasets to be analyzed according to five different training set percentages, the YOLOv5 convolutional neural network is used to train and test the 30 datasets to determine the optimal neural network model corresponding to the training set percentages. Finally, tests were conducted using the Udacity Self-Driving dataset with a self-made Tire Tread Defects (TTD) dataset. The results show that the network model performance is superior when the training set accounts for between 85% and 90% of the overall dataset. The results of dataset partitioning obtained by the TEDE algorithm can provide a reference for deep learning research.
Topology and Control of Fuel Cell Generation Converters
Authors: Zhou Jinghua , Zhang Qi , Li Jin
Published: June 2023

Fuel cell power generation is one of the important ways of utilizing hydrogen energy, which has good prospects for development. However, fuel cell volt-ampere characteristics are nonlinear, the output voltage is low and the fluctuation range is large, and a power electronic converter matching its characteristics is required to achieve efficient and stable work. Based on the analysis of the fuel cell’s characteristic mechanism, maximum power point tracking algorithm, fuel cell converter characteristics, application and converter control strategy, the paper summarizes the general principles of the topology of fuel cell converters. In addition, based on the development status of new energy, hydrogen energy is organically combined with other new energy sources, and the concept of 100% absorption system of new energy with green hydrogen as the main body is proposed to provide a reference for the development of hydrogen energy.
A GIS-Based Comparative Groundwater Vulnerability Assessment Using Modified-DRASTIC, Modified-SINTACS and NV Index in a Porous Aquifer, Greece
Authors: Kirlas Marios C. , Karpouzos Dimitrios K. , Georgiou Pantazis E. , Theodossiou Nicolaos
Published: June 2023

Groundwater vulnerability assessment is of pivotal importance for the sustainable management of groundwater resources, particularly in regions with intense agricultural activity. This research primarily aims to assess and delineate groundwater vulnerability zones using a comparative approach of three different GIS-based modified models, namely Pesticide DRASTIC-LU, Nitrate SINTACS-LU and Nitrate NV index. For this reason, eight hydrogeological parameters were employed to analyze the spatial distribution of groundwater vulnerability in the Nea Moudania aquifer, Chalkidiki, Greece. This multi-model methodology was implemented to ascertain the most reliable method for the study area. Results indicated that the southern and southwestern parts of the study area exhibited the highest vulnerability potential, whilst the northern part displayed the lowest. Moreover, single-parameter sensitivity analysis has revealed that land use and topography were the most critical parameters of the vulnerability indexes, whereas hydraulic conductivity was the least influential. Finally, the three vulnerability models were validated with nitrate concentrations of groundwater samples. Results revealed that the Nitrate NV index was the most accurate method, trailed by the Pesticide DRASTIC-LU and the Nitrate SINTACS-LU.
Microsite Determines the Soil Nitrogen and Carbon Mineralization in Response to Nitrogen Addition in a Temperate Desert
Authors: Chen Yingwu , Li Haorui , Sun Huilu , Guo Yuxin
Published: June 2023

Nitrogen deposition can change the soil in N and C cycling processes. However, a general understanding of how N deposition changes C and N mineralization has not yet been reached. Soil organic C and N mineralization beneath the dominant shrubs of Haloxylon ammodendron and between the shrubs in response to two levels of N addition (2.5 gN m−2 and 5 gN m−2 per year) were investigated in the 1st, 4th, and 9th year of N addition in a temperate desert of northern China. N addition promoted soil N mineralization (RmN), and the nitrification rate (RNN) increased C mineralization in the interplant and decreased it beneath shrubs. N addition increased soil microbial biomass C (Cmic), N (Nmic), and PLFAs in the interplant, and decreased it beneath shrubs. RmN and RNN were related to Nmic, and RCM was related to Cmic and the total PLFAs. N addition increased the fungal biomass alongside the ratio of fungal to bacterial PLFAs in the interplants while decreasing them beneath shrubs. Our results support how N addition can increase soil N mineralization and nitrification, but the effects on soil C mineralization are dependent on the amount of nitrogen addition, the soil’s available carbon content, and water. Finally, the divergent responses of microbial communities to N addition between microsites suggest that the “fertile islands” effects on nutrients and microbial biomass are important when estimating feedbacks of C and N cycling to projected N deposition in the desert ecosystem.
Moringa oleifera Lam. Commercial Beverages: A Multifaceted Investigation of Consumer Perceptions, Sensory Analysis, and Bioactive Properties
Authors: Rodrigues Jéssica Ferreira , Soares Cristina , Moreira Manuela M. , Ramalhosa Maria João , Duarte Neimar Freitas , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Grosso Clara
Published: June 2023

This study employs a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate consumers’ perceptions and acceptance of Moringa oleifera Lam. beverages, examining sensory attributes, chemical composition, and bioactivities. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analyses revealed significant chemovariation in phenolic compositions among commercial moringa beverages. A soluble moringa powder drink exhibited the greatest concentrations of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, along with powerful antioxidant capacity powers assessed with ABTS•+, DPPH•, FRAP assays, •NO, and H2O2 scavenging activities. However, this sample was the least preferred and presented high Cd levels, exceeding WHO-acceptable values of 0.3 mg/kg. Sensory testing indicated that sweet and floral flavors contributed to beverages being liked, while green, grass, herbal flavors, sour, bitter, and precipitate presence were considered unfavorable sensory attributes. Health claims positively influenced acceptance, particularly among women. Consumers associated feelings of health, wellness, relaxation, and leisure with moringa beverages. During purchase, the most observed information included the ingredient list, health benefits, and type/flavor. These findings emphasize the importance of consumer awareness in reading labels, verifying product origins, and ensuring the absence of contaminants. By understanding consumer preferences and the impact of health claims, producers can better tailor M. oleifera beverages to meet consumer expectations while maintaining safety and quality standards.
Influence of Calcium-Sequestering Salts on Heat-Induced Changes in Blends of Skimmed Buffalo and Bovine Milk
Authors: Mejares Carolyn T. , Chandrapala Jayani , Huppertz Thom
Published: June 2023

Heat-induced interactions of calcium and protein in milk lead to undesirable changes in the milk, such as protein coagulation, which can be minimized through the addition of calcium-sequestering salts prior to heat treatment. Thus, the present study investigated the influence of 5 mM added trisodium citrate (TSC) or disodium hydrogen phosphate (DSHP) on the heat-induced (85 °C and 95 °C for 5 min) changes in physical, chemical, and structural properties of buffalo and bovine skim milk mixtures (0:100, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, and 100:0). Significant changes in pH and calcium activity as a result of TSC or DSHP addition subsequently resulted in higher particle size and viscosity as well as non-sedimentable protein level. These changes are mostly observed during heat treatment at 95 °C and increased proportionally to the concentration of buffalo skim milk in the milk mixture. Significant changes were affected by TSC addition in the 75:25 buffalo:bovine milk blend and buffalo skim milk, but for other milk samples, TSC addition effected comparable changes with DSHP addition. Overall, the addition of TSC or DSHP before heat treatment of buffalo:bovine milk blends caused changes in milk properties that could reduce susceptibility of milk to coagulation.
Sustainable Strategies for Increasing Legume Consumption: Culinary and Educational Approaches
Authors: Amoah Isaac , Ascione Angela , Muthanna Fares , Feraco Alessandra , Camajani Elisabetta , Gorini Stefania , Armani Andrea , Caprio Massimiliano , Lombardo Mauro
Published: June 2023

Legumes are nutrient-dense crops with health-promoting benefits. However, several barriers are associated with their consumption. Emerging issues including food neophobic tendencies or taboos, unclear dietary guidelines on legume consumption, health concerns, and socio-economic reasons, as well as long cooking procedures, adversely affect legume consumption frequency. Pre-treatment methods, including soaking, sprouting, and pulse electric field technology, are effective in reducing the alpha-oligosaccharides and other anti-nutritional factors, eventually lowering cooking time for legumes. Extrusion technology used for innovative development of legume-enriched products, including snacks, breakfast cereals and puffs, baking and pasta, represents a strategic way to promote legume consumption. Culinary skills such as legume salads, legume sprouts, stews, soups, hummus, and the development of homemade cake recipes using legume flour could represent effective ways to promote legume consumption. This review aims to highlight the nutritional and health effects associated with legume consumption, and strategies to improve their digestibility and nutritional profile. Additionally, proper educational and culinary approaches aimed to improve legumes intake are discussed.
On a System of Hadamard Fractional Differential Equations with Nonlocal Boundary Conditions on an Infinite Interval
Authors: Luca Rodica , Tudorache Alexandru
Published: June 2023

Our research focuses on investigating the existence of positive solutions for a system of nonlinear Hadamard fractional differential equations. These equations are defined on an infinite interval and involve non-negative nonlinear terms. Additionally, they are subject to nonlocal coupled boundary conditions, incorporating Riemann–Stieltjes integrals and Hadamard fractional derivatives. To establish the main theorems, we employ the Guo–Krasnosel’skii fixed point theorem and the Leggett–Williams fixed point theorem.
An Approximation Method for Fractional-Order Models Using Quadratic Systems and Equilibrium Optimizer
Authors: Yüce Ali
Published: June 2023

System identification is an important methodology used in control theory and constitutes the first step of control design. It is known that many real systems can be better characterized by fractional-order models. However, it is often quite complex and difficult to apply classical control theory methods analytically for fractional-order models. For this reason, integer-order models are generally considered in classical control theory. In this study, an alternative approximation method is proposed for fractional-order models. The proposed method converts a fractional-order transfer function directly into an integer-order transfer function. The proposed method is based on curve fitting that uses a quadratic system model and Equilibrium Optimizer (EO) algorithm. The curve fitting is implemented based on the unit step response signal. The EO algorithm aims to determine the optimal coefficients of integer-order transfer functions by minimizing the error between general parametric quadratic model and objective data. The objective data are unit step response of fractional-order transfer functions and obtained by using the Grünwald-Letnikov (GL) method in the Fractional-Order Modeling and Control (FOMCON) toolbox. Thus, the coefficients of an integer-order transfer function most properly can be determined. Some examples are provided based on different fractional-order transfer functions to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. The proposed method is compared with studies from the literature in terms of time and frequency responses. It is seen that the proposed method exhibits better model approximation performance and provides a lower order model.
Preparation of Whole-Cut Plant-Based Pork Meat and Its Quality Evaluation with Animal Meat
Authors: Liu Haodong , Zhang Jinchuang , Chen Qiongling , Hu Anna , Li Tongqing , Guo Feng , Wang Qiang
Published: June 2023

Low-moisture (20~40%) and high-moisture (40~80%) textured vegetable proteins (TVPs) can be used as important components of plant-based lean meat, while plant-based fat can be characterized by the formation of gels from polysaccharides, proteins, etc. In this study, three kinds of whole-cut plant-based pork (PBP) were prepared based on the mixed gel system, which were from low-moisture TVP, high-moisture TVP, and their mixtures. The comparisons of these products with commercially available plant-based pork (C-PBP1 and C-PBP2) and animal pork meat (APM) were studied in terms of appearance, taste, and nutritional qualities. Results showed the color changes of PBPs after frying were similar to that of APM. The addition of high-moisture TVP would significantly improve hardness (3751.96~7297.21 g), springiness (0.84~0.89%), and chewiness (3162.44~6466.94 g) while also reducing the viscosity (3.89~10.56 g) of products. It was found that the use of high-moisture TVP led to a significant increase in water-holding capacity (WHC) from 150.25% to 161.01% compared with low-moisture TVP; however, oil-holding capacity (OHC) was reduced from 166.34% to 164.79%. Moreover, essential amino acids (EAAs), the essential amino acids index (EAAI), and biological value (BV) were significantly increased from 272.68 mg/g, 105.52, and 103.32 to 362.65 mg/g, 141.34, and 142.36, respectively, though in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD) reduced from 51.67% to 43.68% due to the high-moisture TVP. Thus, the high-moisture TVP could help to improve the appearance, textural properties, WHC, and nutritional qualities of PBPs compared to animal meat, which was also better than low-moisture TVP. These findings should be useful for the application of TVP and gels in plant-based pork products to improve the taste and nutritional qualities.
Innovative Wound Healing Hydrogel Containing Chicken Feather Keratin and Soy Isoflavone Genistein: In Vivo Studies
Authors: Mahajan Nilesh M. , Wanaskar Kalyani , Ali Nemat , Mahapatra Debarshi Kar , Iqbal Muzaffar , Bhat Abid R. , Kaleem Mohammed
Published: June 2023

The current study was performed to isolate keratin from chicken feathers with an intention to develop a keratin–genistein wound-healing hydrogel, along with its in vivo analysis. Pre-formulation aspects were analysed by using FTIR; SEM; HPTLC, while gel was characterized for gel strength, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, etc. Additionally, an in vivo study along with biochemical factors against pro-inflammatory factors and histopathological studies were conducted to determine possible wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effects. Pre-formulation studies revealed the presence of amide bonds with region of dense fibrous keratin and an internal porous network in extracted keratin, which corresponds with standard keratin. Evaluation of optimised keratin–genistein hydrogel indicated the development of neutral, non-sticky hydrogel which spread evenly on the skin. In vivo studies in rats indicate higher degrees of wound-healing in combined hydrogel (94.65%) for a duration of 14 days as compared to an individual hydrogel formulation with the development of the epidermis and excessive proliferation of fibrous connective tissue indicating wound repair. Furthermore, the hydrogel inhibited the overexpression of IL-6 gene along with other pro-inflammatory factors, indicating its anti-inflammatory effects. In order to find out the possibility of closure of wounds and anti-inflammatory properties of the novel product, an in vivo investigation into the healing of wounds in laboratory animals was carried out through biochemical (ELISA and qRT-PCR) analyses against inflammatory markers (IL-2, IL-6, IL-1, IL-10, and COX-2) and histopathological (liver, skin, and the kidneys) investigations. Based on the results, we conclude that keratin–genistein hydrogel is a promising therapeutic molecule for the management of wound repair.
MitoTrace: A Computational Framework for Analyzing Mitochondrial Variation in Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Data
Authors: Wang Mingqiang , Deng Wankun , Samuels David C. , Zhao Zhongming , Simon Lukas M.
Published: June 2023

Genetic variation in the mitochondrial genome is linked to important biological functions and various human diseases. Recent progress in single-cell genomics has established single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) as a popular and powerful technique to profile transcriptomics at the cellular level. While most studies focus on deciphering gene expression, polymorphisms including mitochondrial variants can also be readily inferred from scRNAseq. However, limited attention has been paid to investigate the single-cell landscape of mitochondrial variants, despite the rapid accumulation of scRNAseq data in the community. In addition, a diploid context is assumed for most variant calling tools, which is not appropriate for mitochondrial heteroplasmies. Here, we introduce MitoTrace, an R package for the analysis of mitochondrial genetic variation in bulk and scRNAseq data. We applied MitoTrace to several publicly accessible data sets and demonstrated its ability to robustly recover genetic variants from scRNAseq data. We also validated the applicability of MitoTrace to scRNAseq data from diverse platforms. Overall, MitoTrace is a powerful and user-friendly tool to investigate mitochondrial variants from scRNAseq data.
Transcriptomic Characterization of Genes Regulating the Stemness in Porcine Atrial Cardiomyocytes during Primary In Vitro Culture
Authors: Bryl Rut , Nawrocki Mariusz J. , Jopek Karol , Kaczmarek Mariusz , Bukowska Dorota , Antosik Paweł , Mozdziak Paul , Zabel Maciej , Dzięgiel Piotr , Kempisty Bartosz
Published: June 2023

Heart failure remains a major cause of death worldwide. There is a need to establish new management options as current treatment is frequently suboptimal. Clinical approaches based on autologous stem cell transplant is potentially a good alternative. The heart was long considered an organ unable to regenerate and renew. However, several reports imply that it may possess modest intrinsic regenerative potential. To allow for detailed characterization of cell cultures, whole transcriptome profiling was performed after 0, 7, 15, and 30 days of in vitro cell cultures (IVC) from the right atrial appendage and right atrial wall utilizing microarray technology. In total, 4239 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with ratio > abs |2| and adjusted p-value ≤ 0.05 for the right atrial wall and 4662 DEGs for the right atrial appendage were identified. It was shown that a subset of DEGs, which have demonstrated some regulation of expression levels with the duration of the cell culture, were enriched in the following GO BP (Gene Ontology Biological Process) terms: “stem cell population maintenance” and “stem cell proliferation”. The results were validated by RT-qPCR. The establishment and detailed characterization of in vitro culture of myocardial cells may be important for future applications of these cells in heart regeneration processes.
miR-497 Regulates LATS1 through the PPARG Pathway to Participate in Fatty Acid Synthesis in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Chu Shuangfeng , Yang Yi , Nazar Mudasir , Chen Zhi , Yang Zhangping
Published: June 2023

Nutrient metabolism is required to maintain energy balance in animal organisms, and fatty acids play an irreplaceable role in fat metabolism. In this study, microRNA sequencing was performed on mammary gland tissues collected from cows during early, peak, and late lactation to determine miRNA expression profiles. Differentially expressed miRNA (miR-497) was selected for functional studies of fatty acid substitution. Simulants of miR-497 impaired fat metabolism [triacylglycerol (TAG) and cholesterol], whereas knockdown of miR-497 promoted fat metabolism in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) in vitro. In addition, in vitro experiments on BMECs showed that miR-497 could down-regulate C16:1, C17:1, C18:1, and C20:1 as well as long-chain polyunsaturated fats. Thus, these data expand the discovery of a critical role for miR-497 in mediating adipocyte differentiation. Through bioinformatics analysis and further validation, we identified large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1) as a target of miR-497. siRNA-LATS1 increased concentrations of fatty acids, TAG, and cholesterol in cells, indicating an active role of LATS1 in milk fat metabolism. In summary, miR-497/LATS1 can regulate the biological processes associated with TAG, cholesterol, and unsaturated fatty acid synthesis in cells, providing an experimental basis for further elucidating the mechanistic regulation of lipid metabolism in BMECs.
Interstitial Deletion of 3q21 in a Kuwaiti Child with Multiple Congenital Anomalies—Expanding the Phenotype
Authors: Almoosawy Noor , Albaghli Fawaz , Al-Balool Haya H. , Fathi Hanan , Zakaria Waleed A. , Ayed Mariam , Alsharhan Hind
Published: June 2023

Interstitial deletions in the long arm of chromosome 3, although relatively rare, have previously been reported to be associated with several congenital anomalies and developmental delays. Around 11 individuals with interstitial deletion spanning the region 3q21 were reported to have overlapping phenotypes, including craniofacial dysmorphism, global developmental delay, skeletal manifestations, hypotonia, ophthalmological abnormalities, brain anomalies (mainly agenesis of corpus callosum), genitourinary tract anomalies, failure to thrive and microcephaly. We present a male individual from Kuwait with a 5.438 Mb interstitial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 3 (3q21.1q21.3) detected on the chromosomal microarray with previously unreported features, including feeding difficulties, gastroesophageal reflux, hypospadias, abdomino-scrotal hydrocele, chronic kidney disease, transaminitis, hypercalcemia, hypoglycemia, recurrent infections, inguinal hernia and cutis marmorata. Our report expands the phenotype associated with 3q21.1q21.3 while summarizing the cytogenetics and clinical data of the previously reported individuals with interstitial deletions involving 3q21, thus providing a comprehensive phenotypic summary.
Assessing the Repeatability and Reliability of NIRS to Predict Nutritional Values and to Evaluate Two Lignin Methods in Urochloa spp. Grasses
Authors: Guimarães Iuli Caetano da Silva Brandão , da Silva Thiago Henrique , Picchi Cristina Cirino , Fukushima Romualdo Shigueo
Published: June 2023

Reliable forage analysis is crucial for proper ration formulation of ruminant herds. Through its fast, inexpensive, and non-destructive procedures, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has become a valuable method for forage evaluating. Notwithstanding, NIRS needs calibration before routine analysis. In addition, to evaluate the best method for lignin quantification in Urochloa spp. grasses is crucial under a digestibility perspective in grass-fed ruminant production. The aims of this study were to use 149 samples from different Urochloa species to develop NIRS calibration curves (partial least squares regressions) for acid detergent lignin (ADL), acetyl bromide lignin (ABL), as well as for ash, cell wall (CW), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD), and in vitro NDF digestibility (IVNDFD). Moreover, the aim of this study was to correlate the in vitro digestibility with lignin quantification methods: ADL and ABL. Near-infrared spectroscopy showed potential for the quantification of Urochloa spp. properties, such as lignin contents (ADL and ABL) and ash, CW, NDF, ADF, IVDMD, and IVNDFD. However, calibrations performed using NIRS to measure ADF, ADL, IVDMD, and IVNDFD need to be thought about with caution before their utilization as a routine analysis for determining the potential for nutrient measurement and digestibility of Urochloa spp. grasses. In addition, the ABL method used for lignin quantification was better correlated with IVDMD and IVNDFD than the ADL method.
Translation and Psychometric Properties of the Strategies Used by People to Promote a Health Instrument for the Assessment of Self-Care Self-Efficacy among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thuy Nga , Liang Shu-Yuan , Liu Chieh-Yu , Nguyen Huu Dung
Published: June 2023

Self-care and self-efficacy play an important role in predicting quality of life among patients undergoing hemodialysis, but there currently is a lack of an instrument in the Vietnamese language for assessing self-care and self-efficacy. This limits the ability of researchers to explore and determine the confidence patients have in their ability to perform relevant self-care activities. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the validity and reliability of the Strategies Used by People to Promote Health questionnaire-Vietnamese version. This cross-sectional study involved translation, validation, and cultural adaptation of the questionnaire into Vietnamese and a trial with 127 patients undergoing hemodialysis in Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi, Vietnam). The questionnaire was translated by bilingual translators and validated by three experts. Internal consistency and confirmatory factor analysis were applied. This questionnaire demonstrated good content validity and a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.95 for the total scale. Confirmatory factor analysis of the three-factor model showed moderate model fit (comparative fit index = 0.84, Tucker–Lewis coefficient = 0.82, root mean square error of approximation = 0.09). Overall, this questionnaire exhibited acceptable validity and reliability for measuring self-care and self-efficacy among patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Personality Traits Predict Self-Rated Health (SRH) in Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Patients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Kang Weixi , Malvaso Antonio
Published: June 2023

Objective: The objective of the present study is to examine the association between Big Five personality traits and self-rated health (SRH) among individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD), and to compare this relationship with that of healthy control participants, which is of importance as SRH can be a determinant of outcomes. Methods: The current study used data from 566 participants with CHD with a mean age of 63.00 (S.D. = 15.23) years old (61.13% males) and 8608 age- and sex-matched healthy controls with a mean age of 63.87 (S.D.= 9.60) years old (61.93% males) from the UKHLS. The current study used predictive normative modelling approaches, one-sample t tests, a hierarchical regression, and two multiple regressions. Results: The current study found that CHD patients have significantly lower Conscientiousness (t(565) = −3.84, p < 0.001, 95% C.I. [−0.28, −0.09], Cohen’s d = −0.16) and SRH (t(565) = −13.83, p < 0.001, 95% C.I. [−0.68, −0.51], and Cohen’s d = −0.58) scores compared to age and sex-matched healthy controls. Moreover, health status (controls vs. CHD patients) moderated the links between Neuroticism, Extraversion and SRH. Specifically, Neuroticism (b = −0.03, p < 0.01, 95% C.I. [−0.04, −0.01]), Openness (b = 0.04, p < 0.001, 95% C.I. [0.02, 0.06]), and Conscientiousness (b = 0.08, p < 0.001, 95% C.I. [0.06, 0.10]) were significant predictors of SRH in healthy controls, whereas Conscientiousness (b = 0.08, p < 0.05, 95% C.I. [0.01, 0.16]) and Extraversion (b = −0.09, p < 0.01, 95% C.I. [−0.15, −0.02]) were significant predictors of SRH in CHD patients. Conclusion: Based on the close associations between personality traits and SRH, and the subsequent impact on patient outcomes, the results of this study should be taken into consideration by clinicians and health professionals when developing tailored treatment and intervention programs for their patients.
Differences in Loneliness and Social Isolation among Community-Dwelling Older Adults by Household Type: A Nationwide Survey in Japan
Authors: Oe Nanami , Tadaka Etsuko
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Social isolation and loneliness are determinants of healthy longevity. However, previous research has focused on either social isolation or loneliness and has not considered household types. This study sought to clarify loneliness and social isolation among older adults using single-person (ST) or multi-person (MT) household types. (2) Methods: We administered a national, anonymous, self-administered survey to 5351 Japanese older adults aged 65 years or older. The survey included subjects’ demographic characteristics and scores for loneliness (University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale version 3 (Cronbach’s α = 0.790)), social isolation (Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) (Cronbach’s α = 0.82)), and self-efficacy (GSES). (3) Results: After adjusting for age and gender, ST individuals had significantly lower LSNS-6 and significantly higher UCLA scores than MT individuals (p < 0.001). Lower LSNS-6 and higher UCLA scores were significantly associated with lower GSES scores, and the effect of GSES was greater for ST than for MT (LSNS-6, ST (β = 0.358, p < 0.001); MT (β = 0.295, p < 0.001)) (UCLA, ST (β = −0.476, p < 0.001); MT (β = −0.381, p < 0.001)). (4) Conclusions: Specific healthcare systems and programs based on self-efficacy should be developed by household type to reduce both social isolation and loneliness.
Internal Quality Prediction Method of Damaged Korla Fragrant Pears during Storage
Authors: Liu Yang , Niu Xiyue , Tang Yurong , Li Shiyuan , Lan Haipeng , Niu Hao
Published: June 2023

To increase the commercial value of damaged fragrant pears and improve marketing competitiveness, this study explored the degree of damage degree and effects of storage time on the internal quality of fragrant pears during storage and predicted the internal quality of fragrant pears using an adaptive neural fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The internal quality prediction models of damaged fragrant pears during storage with eight membership functions were constructed, and the optimal model was chosen, allowing for accurate internal quality prediction of damaged fragrant pears. The research results demonstrated that the hardness and soluble solid content (SSC) of fragrant pears decrease as the storage time increases. Given the same storage time, the hardness and SSC of fragrant pears are negatively correlated to the degree of damage. The ANFIS modelling technique is feasible for predicting the internal quality of fragrant pears during storage. The best prediction performances for the hardness and SSC of fragrant pears, respectively, are displayed by the ANFIS using the input membership function of trimf (RMSE = 0.1362, R2 = 0.9752; RMSE = 0.0315, R2 = 0.9892). The findings of this study can be used to predict the storage quality of fruits.
Pollen Sensitization Can Increase the Allergic Reaction to Non-Cross-Reactive Allergens in a Soy-Allergic Patient
Authors: Briceno Noriega Daniela Briceno , Savelkoul Huub F. J. , Jansen Ad , Teodorowicz Malgorzata , Ruinemans-Koerts Janneke
Published: June 2023

During and after the pollen season, an increase in food-triggered allergic symptoms has been observed in pollen-food syndrome patients, possibly due to seasonal boosting of pollen-IgE levels. It has been suggested that consumption of birch-pollen-related foods plays a role in seasonal allergenic inflammation. However, whether this increased pollen sensitization during the pollen season can also affect the allergenicity of allergens that are non-cross-reactive with birch pollen remains in question. This study presents the case of a patient with soy allergy and pollinosis, who experiences worsening of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during the birch pollen season even though the eliciting food factor does not cross-react with birch pollen allergens and their homologs (e.g., Bet v 1 and Gly m 4). The results showed a notable increase in sIgE for Gly m 4 (3.3 fold) and Bet v 1 (2.6 fold) during the birch pollen season compared to outside the birch pollen season, while Gly m 5 and Gly m 6 showed only a slight increase (1.5 fold). The basophil activation test (BAT) showed that in this patient Gly m 5 and Gly m 6 are clinically relevant soy allergens, which correlates with the reported clinical symptoms to processed soy. Moreover, the BAT against raw soy shows an increase in basophil activation during the birch pollen season and a negative basophil activation result outside the birch pollen season. Thus, the worsening of GI symptoms could possibly be due to an increase in IgE receptors, an over-reactive immune system, and/or significant intestinal allergic inflammation. This case highlights the importance of including allergens that do not cross-react with birch pollen and using a functional assay such as the BAT to evaluate clinical relevance when assessing birch pollen seasonal influence on soy allergenicity.
Violence across the Life Course and Implications for Intervention Design: Findings from the Maisha Fiti Study with Female Sex Workers in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Beattie Tara S. , Kabuti Rhoda , Beksinska Alicja , Babu Hellen , Kung’u Mary ,   The Maisha Fiti Study Champions, Shah Pooja , Nyariki Emily , Nyamweya Chrispo , Okumu Monica , Mahero Anne , Ngurukiri Pauline , Jama Zaina , Irungu Erastus , Adhiambo Wendy , Muthoga Peter , Kaul Rupert , Seeley Janet , Weiss Helen A. , Kimani Joshua
Published: June 2023

We examined violence experiences among Female Sex Workers (FSWs) in Nairobi, Kenya, and how these relate to HIV risk using a life course perspective. Baseline behavioural–biological surveys were conducted with 1003 FSWs June-December 2019. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations of life course factors with reported experience of physical or sexual violence in the past 6 months. We found substantial overlap between violence in childhood, and recent intimate and non-intimate partner violence in adulthood, with 86.9% reporting one or more types of violence and 18.7% reporting all three. Recent physical or sexual violence (64.9%) was independently associated with life course factors, including a high WHO Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) score (AOR = 7.92; 95% CI:4.93–12.74) and forced sexual debut (AOR = 1.97; 95% CI:1.18–3.29), as well as having an intimate partner (AOR = 1.67; 95% CI:1.25–2.23), not having an additional income to sex work (AOR = 1.54; 95% CI:1.15–2.05), having four or more dependents (AOR = 1.52; 95% CI:0.98–2.34), recent hunger (AOR = 1.39; 95% CI:1.01–1.92), police arrest in the past 6 months (AOR = 2.40; 95% CI:1.71–3.39), condomless last sex (AOR = 1.46; 95% CI:1.02–2.09), and harmful alcohol use (AOR = 3.34; 95% CI:1.74–6.42). Interventions that focus on violence prevention during childhood and adolescence should help prevent future adverse trajectories, including violence experience and HIV acquisition.
Brindley’s Glands Volatilome of the Predator Zelus renardii Interacting with Xylella Vectors
Authors: Picciotti Ugo , Valverde-Urrea Miguel , Garganese Francesca , Lopez-Moya Federico , Foubelo Francisco , Porcelli Francesco , Lopez-Llorca Luis Vicente
Published: June 2023

Alien species must adapt to new biogeographical regions to acclimatise and survive. We consider a species to have become invasive if it establishes negative interactions after acclimatisation. Xylella fastidiosa Wells, Raju et al., 1986 (XF) represents Italy’s and Europe’s most recent biological invasion. In Apulia (southern Italy), the XF-encountered Philaenus spumarius L. 1758 (Spittlebugs, Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha) can acquire and transmit the bacterium to Olea europaea L., 1753. The management of XF invasion involves various transmission control means, including inundative biological control using Zelus renardii (ZR) Kolenati, 1856 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). ZR is an alien stenophagous predator of Xylella vectors, recently entered from the Nearctic and acclimated in Europe. Zelus spp. can secrete semiochemicals during interactions with conspecifics and prey, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that elicit conspecific defence behavioural responses. Our study describes ZR Brindley’s glands, present in males and females of ZR, which can produce semiochemicals, eliciting conspecific behavioural responses. We scrutinised ZR secretion alone or interacting with P. spumarius. The ZR volatilome includes 2-methyl-propanoic acid, 2-methyl-butanoic acid, and 3-methyl-1-butanol, which are consistent for Z. renardii alone. Olfactometric tests show that these three VOCs, individually tested, generate an avoidance (alarm) response in Z. renardii. 3-Methyl-1-butanol elicited the highest significant repellence, followed by 2-methyl-butanoic and 2-methyl-propanoic acids. The concentrations of the VOCs of ZR decrease during the interaction with P. spumarius. We discuss the potential effects of VOC secretions on the interaction of Z. renardii with P. spumarius.
Effects of Tebufenozide on Eggs, Larvae and Adults of Chrysoperla carnea (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: Suarez-Lopez Yurany Andrea , Hatem Adel E. , Aldebis Hani K. , Vargas-Osuna Enrique
Published: June 2023

Quantifying compatibility among control agents is essential for development of integrated pest management (IPM). Chrysoperla carnea (Siemens) and insect growth regulator insecticides are widely used in IPM of Lepidoptera. C. carnea is a generalist predator naturally present in the Mediterranean agroecosystems and bred in insectariums for commercial purposes. Here, we evaluated lethal and sublethal effects of tebufenozide on C. carnea under laboratory conditions. The treatment of eggs with tebufenozide 24 or 48 h after they were laid did not affect the hatching rate or survival of the neonate larvae. Toxic effects of tebufenozide on topically treated larvae was low; development times of surviving larvae and pupae decreased significantly compared with controls. In choice bioassays, a high percentage of third-instar larvae chose prey (Spodoptera littoralis) treated with tebufenozide in preference to untreated prey. Moreover, second-instar larvae of C. carnea that had previously consumed tebufenozide-treated prey (0.75 mL/L) had significantly reduced larval development time compared with controls, while longevity of surviving adults, fecundity and egg viability were unaffected. Ingestion of tebufenozide by adults of C. carnea at the recommended field dose had no significant effect on female fecundity, egg viability or adult longevity. Tebufenozide exhibited low toxicity towards the developmental stages of C. carnea and is therefore a candidate for inclusion in IPM strategies.
Potential of Gas-Propelled Aerosol Containing Synergized Pyrethrins for Localized Treatment of Cryptotermes brevis (Kalotermitidae: Blattodea)
Authors: Hassan Babar , Fitzgerald Chris
Published: June 2023

The possibility of synergized pyrethrin-containing aerosol as a choice for spot-treating C. brevis in Australia was investigated in laboratory tests. Topical toxicity tests, where C. brevis pseudergates were subjected to multiple doses of pyrethrin mist insecticide, showed the concentration-dependent death of termites with a median lethal dose (LD50) of 193.16 µg. Residual toxicity tests, where the termites were exposed to wood surfaces treated with pyrethrin-containing aerosol, showed a rapid mortality in short and continuous exposures. Less than 20% of the termites survived even when the termites were exposed to a treated wood surface for a minute. All the termites died within 1–5 h in continuous exposure tests, depending on the age of the treated surface. In repellency tests, the termites tended to visit treated surfaces, causing an overall lower survival of the termites. The synergized pyrethrin-containing aerosol remained insufficiently volatile to produce the complete mortality of the termites even after 196 h when there was no contact with a treated surface. The number of termites that survived following the application of the synergized aerosol through a simulated wood gallery or silicon tubing with fecal pellets was also negligible, demonstrating the ability of the aerosol to penetrate through pellets and ultimately resulting in a distribution that is ideal for treatment in the termite galleries.
Real-Time Detection and Classification of Scirtothrips dorsalis on Fruit Crops with Smartphone-Based Deep Learning System: Preliminary Results
Authors: Niyigena Gildas , Lee Sangjun , Kwon Soonhwa , Song Daebin , Cho Byoung-Kwan
Published: June 2023

This study proposes a deep-learning-based system for detecting and classifying Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood, a highly invasive insect pest that causes significant economic losses to fruit crops worldwide. The system uses yellow sticky traps and a deep learning model to detect the presence of thrips in real time, allowing farmers to take prompt action to prevent the spread of the pest. To achieve this, several deep learning models are evaluated, including YOLOv5, Faster R-CNN, SSD MobileNetV2, and EfficientDet-D0. EfficientDet-D0 was integrated into the proposed smartphone application for mobility and usage in the absence of Internet coverage because of its smaller model size, fast inference time, and reasonable performance on the relevant dataset. This model was tested on two datasets, in which thrips and non-thrips insects were captured under different lighting conditions. The system installation took up 13.5 MB of the device’s internal memory and achieved an inference time of 76 ms with an accuracy of 93.3%. Additionally, this study investigated the impact of lighting conditions on the performance of the model, which led to the development of a transmittance lighting setup to improve the accuracy of the detection system. The proposed system is a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional detection methods and provides significant benefits to fruit farmers and the related ecosystem.