bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leaf Carbon and Water Isotopes Correlate with Leaf Hydraulic Traits in Three Solanum Species (S. peruvianum, S. lycopersicum and S. chilense)
Authors: Barrera-Ayala Diego , Tapia Gerardo , Ferrio Juan Pedro
Published: February 2023

Leaf hydraulic conductance (KLeaf) is a measure of the efficiency of water transport through the leaf, which determines physiological parameters such as stomatal conductance, photosynthesis and transpiration rates. One key anatomical structure that supports KLeaf is leaf venation, which could be subject to evolutionary pressure in dry environments. In this context, it is useful to assess these traits in species from arid climates such as S. peruvianum and S. chilense, in order to determine their hydraulic strategy and potential aptitude for the improvement of domestic tomato (S. lycopersicum). In this work, we measured KLeaf, vein density, together with leaf water isotope composition (δ18O, δ2H) and leaf carbon isotope composition (δ13C), from which we derived proxies for outside-vein hydraulic resistance (Rox) and intrinsic water use efficiency (WUEi), respectively. The two wild species showed contrasting hydraulic strategies, with S. chilense performing as a water-spender, whereas S. peruvianum showed a water-saving strategy. Interestingly, S. lycopersicum was rather conservative, and showed the highest WUEi. The low water transport capacity of S. peruvianum was not explained by vein density traits, but was related with the effective pathlength L, an isotope-derived proxy for Rox. The low WUEi of S. peruvianum suggest strong photosynthetic limitations. Our results show a wide diversity in water-use strategies in the genus, encouraging a detailed characterization of wild relatives. From a methodological point of view, we provide evidence supporting the use of water isotopes to assess changes in mesophyll hydraulic conductance, not attributable to vein density.
The Initial Horse’s Postural Response to the First Session of the Dorsal, Ventral, and Dorso–Ventral Massage Techniques
Authors: Balcer Monika , Śnieg Aleksandra , Sikorska Urszula , Maśko Małgorzata , Domino Małgorzata
Published: February 2023

Since interest in equine manual therapy and rehabilitation is constantly growing, the need for quantification of the horse’s postural response to used alternative therapy has increased. This study implemented geometric morphometrics (GM) for a dorsal profile comparison between the horse groups. The dorsal profile was represented by the centroid size and the centroid shape. The horse groups were defined using four classifiers: horse’s age, height at the withers, time lap in the massage session, and technique of the massage (dorsal, ventral, and dorso–ventral). Out of a total of 900 photographs of 20 horses, 180 photos were analyzed using GM, including thirty landmarks. Variation of the principal components (PCs) representing consecutive dorsal profiles were reported for the first three PSs as 59.50% for PC1, 14.36% for PC2, and 9.01% for PC3. The dorsal profiles differed depending on the classifier ‘height’ in terms of centroid size (p < 0.0001) as well as classifier ‘time’ (p < 0.0001) and classifier ‘technique’ (p < 0.0001) in terms of centroid shape, but not depending on the classifier ‘age’ (p > 0.05). GM allows visualizing the differences in the horses’ posture resulting from the selected manual rehabilitation techniques. The quantification of the horse’s body posture in the studied protocol indicates horses’ body posture after being warmed-up and massaged using the dorso–ventral technique is the most desirable.
Greenhouse Tomato Picking Robot Chassis
Authors: Su Long , Liu Ruijia , Liu Kenan , Li Kai , Liu Li , Shi Yinggang
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a greenhouse tomato picking robot chassis that meets the path cruising and setpoint positioning requirements of robots engaged in greenhouse tomato picking operations in China is designed. Based on the trellis-cultivation growing environment of tomatoes, the basic parameters of the chassis and operating space are analyzed to determine the chassis requirements during picking operations. According to these requirements, a kinematic model of a robot chassis with front-wheel steering and rear-wheel driving is constructed, and the planar positioning principle of the chassis is introduced. SOLIDWORKS is used to simulate and design three-dimensional models of the chassis parts, and the ANSYS WORKBENCH plug-in is used to simulate and analyze the bearing performance of key chassis components. ADAMS is used to simulate and evaluate the motion trajectory of the chassis, and the reasonableness of parameters such as the chassis size, selected materials, and load-bearing performance are verified. Based on the simulation results, a physical system is constructed to experimentally verify the straight-line motion and steering performance of the chassis. The experimental results show that the chassis has good cruising and positioning accuracy and meets the specific requirements of path cruising and setpoint positioning in greenhouse tomato picking operations.
Effect of Soil Organic Mulching Combined with Aeration Treatment on Soil Quality, Nutrients Content, and Lei Bamboo Shoot Production
Authors: Mbukwa David , Gui Renyi , Deng Shixin
Published: February 2023

Lei bamboo cultivation is an important economic activity in the Zhejiang province of China. However, extensive management practices such as organic mulching aimed at optimizing Lei bamboo production usually have a long-term negative impact on soil pH. Thus, it is important for novel management practices that consider not only bamboo production but also soil quality to be developed. In this study, we evaluated the effect of four conditions: organic mulching combined with aeration (MA), organic mulching and no aeration (MNA), aeration and no mulching (NMA), and control treatment (CK) on soil quality parameters and Lei bamboo shoot production. The Lei bamboo stands have been receiving similar treatments for 3–4 years, but for this study, organic mulch materials (rice husks, stalks, bamboo leaves, non-living plant biomass materials and plants biochar) were reapplied in October 2021 and soil sampling was done in April 2022. Our results showed that the average oxygen content at a sampling depth of 10 cm in CK, MA, and NMA was 21.6%, 21.7%, and 20.7%, respectively. However, when mulching was applied without aeration (MNA), soil oxygen content and pH were decreased by 6.3% and 0.7 units compared to CK. Moreover, for this treatment soil pH was as low as 4.28 at a depth of 30 cm. Nevertheless, when mulching was applied together with aeration (MA), all soil quality parameters, including the contents of organic matter and nitrogen were significantly increased (p < 0.05). For MA, soil pH was generally > 5.0 even at a depth of 30 cm. For all the treatment plots, the number of bamboo shoots that were produced after one month of treatment followed the sequence MA (591.0) > MNA (554.3) > NMA (305.7) > CK (53.3). Even though NMA and MNA treatments both improved bamboo growth by providing the required nutrients, we recommend the combined application of mulching and aeration (MA) for long-term Lei bamboo plantation management since the combination has the potential to improve nutrient supply and bamboo growth while retarding soil acidification.
Inorganic Fungicides (Phosphites) Instead of Organic Fungicides in Winter Wheat—Consequences for Nitrogen Fertilizer Productivity
Authors: Grzebisz Witold , Łączny Szymon , Szczepaniak Witold , Potarzycki Jarosław
Published: February 2023

Substitution of organic with inorganic fungicides (phosphites, Phi) does not change the efficiency of fertilizer nitrogen (Nf) in winter wheat. This hypothesis was tested in the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 growing seasons. A two-factorial experiment with three phosphite variants (Cu–Phi, Mg–Phi, and Cu/Mg) and six plant protection methods (fungicides + Phi ⟶ reduced fungicide frequency + phosphite ⟶ phosphite). Grain yield decreased with increasing frequency of phosphites instead of fungicides. The decrease in yields was 3.6 t ha−1 in the favorable 2016/2017 and 1.1 t ha−1 in the dry 2017/2018. The primary reason for yield decrease in a given growing season was increased wheat infestation by pathogens. The direct cause was disturbances in the nitrogen status of wheat after flowering on treatments with a predominance of phosphites. The thousand grain weight (TGW) responded negatively to reduced fungicide application frequency. The critical stage in the assessment of pathogen pressure on wheat was the medium milk phase (BBCH 75). At this stage, indices of SPAD and leaf greenness together with indices of wheat infestation with pathogens allowed for a reliable prediction of both TGW and grain yield. It can be concluded that phosphites do not substitute organic fungicides in limiting pathogen pressure in winter wheat. Moreover, increased pressure of pathogens significantly reduces Nf productivity.
CA-BIT: A Change Detection Method of Land Use in Natural Reserves
Authors: Jia Bin , Cheng Zhiyou , Wang Chuanjian , Zhao Jinling , An Ning
Published: February 2023

Natural reserves play a leading role in safeguarding national ecological security. Remote sensing change detection (CD) technology can identify the dynamic changes of land use and warn of ecological risks in natural reserves in a timely manner, which can provide technical support for the management of natural reserves. We propose a CD method (CA-BIT) based on the improved bitemporal image transformer (BIT) model to realize the change detection of remote sensing data of Anhui Natural Reserves in 2018 and 2021. Resnet34-CA is constructed through the combination of Resnet34 and a coordinate attention mechanism to effectively extract high-level semantic features. The BIT module is also used to efficiently enhance the original semantic features. Compared with the overall accuracy of the existing deep learning-based CD methods, that of CA-BIT is 98.34% on the natural protected area CD datasets and 99.05% on LEVIR_CD. Our method can effectively satisfy the need of CD of different land categories such as construction land, farmland, and forest land.
Protein Content in the Diet Influences Growth and Diarrhea in Weaning Piglets
Authors: Marchetti Rosa , Faeti Valerio , Gallo Maurizio , Pindo Massimo , Bochicchio Davide , Buttazzoni Luca , Della Casa Giacinto
Published: February 2023

The aim of this research has been to assess the effect of the dietary protein level on piglet growth and post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) incidence. Piglet fecal microbiota and feces composition were also assessed. The experiment was carried out on 144 weaned piglets (Duroc × Large White; 72 piglets per treatment) and lasted from weaning (at 25 days of age) until the end of the post-weaning phase (at 95 days). Two dietary protein levels were compared: high (HP; 17.5% crude protein on average, during the experiment) and low (LP; 15.5% on average). Lower (p < 0.01) average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were observed in LP piglets in the first growth phase. However, at the end of the post-weaning period, the growth parameters were not significantly different in the two diets. Diarrhea scores were lower in piglets fed LP diets than in piglets fed HP diets (28.6% of the total vs. 71.4% in the HP piglets). Fibrobacteres, Proteobacteria, and Spirochaetes were more abundant in the feces of the piglets fed LP diets. Feces nitrogen content was lower in piglets fed LP diets. In conclusion, low protein levels in the diet can reduce the incidence of PWD while only marginally affecting growth parameters.
Micro- and Macro-Algae Combination as a Novel Alternative Ruminant Feed with Methane-Mitigation Potential
Authors: Ahmed Eslam , Suzuki Kengo , Nishida Takehiro
Published: February 2023

This study was conducted to provide alternative high-quality feed and to reduce methane production using a mixture of the minimum effective levels of Euglena gracilis, EG, and Asparagopsis taxiformis, AT. This study was performed as a 24 h in vitro batch culture. Chemical analysis demonstrated that EG is a highly nutritive material with 26.1% protein and 17.7% fat. The results showed that the supplementation of AT as a feed additive at 1 and 2.5% of the diet reduced methane production by 21 and 80%, respectively, while the inclusion of EG in the diet at 10 and 25% through partially replacing the concentrate mixture reduced methane production by 4 and 11%, respectively, with no adverse effects on fermentation parameters. The mixtures of AT 1% with both EG 10% and EG 25% had a greater reductive potential than the individual supplementation of these algae in decreasing methane yield by 29.9% and 40.0%, respectively, without adverse impacts on ruminal fermentation characteristics. These results revealed that the new feed formulation had a synergistic effect in reducing methane emissions. Thus, this approach could provide a new strategy for a sustainable animal production industry.
Estimation of Body Weight Based on Biometric Measurements by Using Random Forest Regression, Support Vector Regression and CART Algorithms
Authors: Tırınk Cem , Piwczyński Dariusz , Kolenda Magdalena , Önder Hasan
Published: February 2023

The study’s main goal was to compare several data mining and machine learning algorithms to estimate body weight based on body measurements at a different share of Polish Merino in the genotype of crossbreds (share of Suffolk and Polish Merino genotypes). The study estimated the capabilities of CART, support vector regression and random forest regression algorithms. To compare the estimation performances of the evaluated algorithms and determine the best model for estimating body weight, various body measurements and sex and birth type characteristics were assessed. Data from 344 sheep were used to estimate the body weights. The root means square error, standard deviation ratio, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, mean absolute percentage error, coefficient of determination and Akaike’s information criterion were used to assess the algorithms. A random forest regression algorithm may help breeders obtain a unique Polish Merino Suffolk cross population that would increase meat production.
Challenges of Colistin Use in ICU and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: A Literature Review
Authors: Rychlíčková Jitka , Kubíčková Vendula , Suk Pavel , Urbánek Karel
Published: February 2023

The emerging resistance of Gram-negative bacteria is a growing problem worldwide. Together with the financial cost, limited efficacy, and local unavailability of newer antibiotics or their combinations, it has led to the reintroduction of colistin as a therapeutic alternative. Despite its protracted development and availability on the market, there is now a complex maze of questions surrounding colistin with a more or less straightforward relationship to its safety and efficacy. This review aims to offer a way to navigate this maze. We focus on summarizing the available literature regarding the use of colistin in critically ill patients, particularly on stability, pharmacokinetics, methods for determining plasma concentrations, and therapeutic drug monitoring benefits and limitations. Based on these data, we then highlight the main gaps in the available information and help define directions for future research on this drug. The first gap is the lack of data on the stability of intravenous and nebulization solutions at clinically relevant concentrations and under external conditions corresponding to clinical practice. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic parameters should be validated using standardized dosing, including a loading dose. Based on the pharmacokinetic data obtained, a population model for critically ill patients should be developed. Finally, the interference of colistin with extracorporeal methods should be quantified.
Analysis of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes (ARGs) in Enterobacterales and A. baumannii Clinical Strains Colonizing a Single Italian Patient
Authors: Piccirilli Alessandra , Meroni Elisa , Mauri Carola , Perilli Mariagrazia , Cherubini Sabrina , Pompilio Arianna , Luzzaro Francesco , Principe Luigi
Published: February 2023

The dramatic increase in infections caused by critically multidrug-resistant bacteria is a global health concern. In this study, we characterized the antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) of K. pneumoniae, P. mirabilis, E. cloacae and A. baumannii isolated from both surgical wound and rectal swab of a single Italian patient. Bacterial identification was performed by MALDI-TOF MS and the antimicrobial susceptibility was carried out by Vitek 2 system. The characterization of ARGs was performed using next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodology (MiSeq Illumina apparatus). K. pneumoniae, P. mirabilis and E. cloacae were resistant to most β-lactams and β-lactam/β-lactamases inhibitor combinations. A. baumannii strain was susceptible only to colistin. The presence of plasmids (IncN, IncR, IncFIB, ColRNAI and Col (MGD2)) was detected in all Enterobacterales but not in A. baumannii strain. The IncN plasmid and blaNDM-1 gene were found in K. pneumoniae, P. mirabilis and E. cloacae, suggesting a possible transfer of this gene among the three clinical species. Conjugation experiments were performed using K. pneumoniae (1 isolate), P. mirabilis (2 isolates) and E. cloacae (2 isolates) as donors and E. coli J53 as a recipient. The blaNDM-1 gene was identified by PCR analysis in all transconjugants obtained. The presence of four different bacterial species harboring resistance genes to different classes of antibiotics in a single patient substantially reduced the therapeutic options.
The Impact of Tetracycline Pollution on the Aquatic Environment and Removal Strategies
Authors: Amangelsin Yernar , Semenova Yuliya , Dadar Maryam , Aljofan Mohamad , Bjørklund Geir
Published: February 2023

Antibacterial drugs are among the most commonly used medications in the world. Tetracycline is a widely used antibiotic for human and animal therapy due to its broad-spectrum activity, high effectiveness, and reasonable cost. The indications for treatment with tetracycline include pneumonia, bone and joint infections, infectious disorders of the skin, sexually transmitted and gastrointestinal infections. However, tetracycline has become a serious threat to the environment because of its overuse by humans and veterinarians and weak ability to degrade. Tetracycline is capable of accumulating along the food chain, causing toxicity to the microbial community, encouraging the development and spread of antibiotic resistance, creating threats to drinking and irrigation water, and disrupting microbial flora in the human intestine. It is essential to address the negative impact of tetracycline on the environment, as it causes ecological imbalance. Ineffective wastewater systems are among the main reasons for the increased antibiotic concentrations in aquatic sources. It is possible to degrade tetracycline by breaking it down into small molecules with less harmful or nonhazardous effects. A range of methods for physical, chemical, and biological degradation exists. The review will discuss the negative effects of tetracycline consumption on the aquatic environment and describe available removal methods.
Polyphenol Profile of Cistus × incanus L. and Its Relevance to Antioxidant Effect and α-Glucosidase Inhibition
Authors: Starzec Aneta , Włodarczyk Maciej , Kunachowicz Dominika , Dryś Andrzej , Kepinska Marta , Fecka Izabela
Published: February 2023

The European Food Safety Authority recommends C. incanus as a natural source of antioxidants. Its activity is essentially determined by polyphenols, although specific compounds are not finally indicated. The available plant material comes from different subspecies and locations, which can lead to differences in chemical composition and potency. For this reason, we conducted a detailed analysis of the polyphenol content and antioxidant activity of 52 different C. incanus teas from Turkey, Albania, Greece, and unspecified regions. We focused special attention on ellagitannins, which have not been properly determined so far. Besides oxidative stress, hyperglycemia is an essential component of cardiometabolic diseases. Therefore, in subsequent experiments, we evaluated the ability of C. incanus extracts and individual polyphenols to inhibit α-glucosidase. Using statistical methods, we analyzed how differences in chemical composition affect activity. The results showed that C. incanus is a rich source of ellagitannins (2.5–19%), which dominate among polyphenols (5.5–23%). Turkish-origin products had higher ellagitannin content and a greater antioxidant effect (FRAP, ABTS) than Albanian and Greek products. In contrast, the flavonoid and phenolic acid contents and DPPH values were at similar levels in all products. An in-depth analysis of their composition indicated that all groups of polyphenols are involved in the antioxidant effect, but a significant contribution can be attributed to ellagitannins and flavonoids. C. incanus extracts showed a high capacity to inhibit α-glucosidase activity (IC50 125–145 μg/mL). Ellagitannins were the most effective inhibitors (IC50 0.7–1.1 μM), with a potency exceeding acarbose (3.3 mM). In conclusion, C. incanus, due to the presence of ellagitannins and flavonoids, exhibits powerful antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Caffeine on Muscle under Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation
Authors: Eichwald Tuany , Solano Alexandre Francisco , Souza Jennyffer , de Miranda Taís Browne , Carvalho Liebert Bernardes , dos Santos Sanna Paula Lemes , da Silva Rodrigo A. Foganholi , Latini Alexandra
Published: February 2023

Evidence has shown that caffeine administration reduces pro-inflammatory biomarkers, delaying fatigue and improving endurance performance. This study examined the effects of caffeine administration on the expression of inflammatory-, adenosine receptor- (the targets of caffeine), epigenetic-, and oxidative metabolism-linked genes in the vastus lateralis muscle of mice submitted to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation. We showed that caffeine pre-treatment before LPS administration reduced the expression of Il1b, Il6, and Tnfa, and increased Il10 and Il13. The negative modulation of the inflammatory response induced by caffeine involved the reduction of inflammasome components, Asc and Casp1, promoting an anti-inflammatory scenario. Caffeine treatment per se promoted the upregulation of adenosinergic receptors, Adora1 and Adora2A, an effect that was counterbalanced by LPS. Moreover, there was observed a marked Adora2A promoter hypermethylation, which could represent a compensatory response towards the increased Adora2A expression. Though caffeine administration did not alter DNA methylation patterns, the expression of DNA demethylating enzymes, Tet1 and Tet2, was increased in mice receiving Caffeine+LPS, when compared with the basal condition. Finally, caffeine administration attenuated the LPS-induced catabolic state, by rescuing basal levels of Ampk expression. Altogether, the anti-inflammatory effects of caffeine in the muscle can be mediated by modifications on the epigenetic landscape.
GNSS-Assisted Low-Cost Vision-Based Observation System for Deformation Monitoring
Authors: Shults Roman , Ormambekova Azhar , Medvedskij Yurii , Annenkov Andriy
Published: February 2023

This paper considers an approach to solve the structure monitoring problem using an integrated GNSS system and non-metric cameras with QR-coded targets. The system is defined as a GNSS-assisted low-cost vision-based observation system, and its primary application is for monitoring various engineering structures, including high-rise buildings. The proposed workflow makes it possible to determine the change in the structure geometric parameters under the impact of external factors or loads and in what follows to predict the displacements at a given observation epoch. The approach is based on the principle of relative measurements, implemented to find the displacements between pairs of images from non-metric cameras organized in a system of interconnected chains. It is proposed to determine the displacement between the images for different epochs using the phase correlation algorithm, which provides a high-speed solution and reliable results. An experimental test bench was prepared, and a series of measurements were performed to simulate the operation of one vision-based observation system chain. A program for processing the sequence of images in the MatLab programming environment using the phase correlation algorithm was implemented. An analysis of the results of the experiment was carried out. The analysis results allowed us to conclude that the suggested approach can be successfully implemented in compliance with the requirements for monitoring accuracy. The simulation of the vision-based observation system operation with accuracy estimation was performed. The simulation results proved the high efficiency of the suggested system.
Evaluation of a Deep Learning Approach for Predicting the Fraction of Transpirable Soil Water in Vineyards
Authors: Alibabaei Khadijeh , Gaspar Pedro D. , Campos Rebeca M. , Rodrigues Gonçalo C. , Lopes Carlos M.
Published: February 2023

As agriculture has an increasing impact on the environment, new techniques can help meet future food needs while maintaining or reducing the environmental footprint. Those techniques must incorporate a range of sensing, communication, and data analysis technologies to make informed management decisions, such as those related to the use of water, fertilizer, pesticides, seeds, fuel, labor, etc., to help increase crop production and reduce water and nutrient losses, as well as negative environmental impacts. In this study, a Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) model was trained on real data from Internet of Things sensors in a vineyard located in the Douro wine-growing region, from 2018–2021, to evaluate the ability of this model to predict the Fraction of Transpirable Soil Water (FTSW). The model uses historical data, including reference evapotranspiration, relative humidity, vapor pressure deficit, and rainfall, and outputs the FTSW for periods of one, three, five, and seven days. The model achieved an RMSE between 8.3% and 16.6% and an R2-score between 0.75 and 0.93. The model was validated on an independent dataset collected in 2002–2004 from a different vineyard located in the Lisbon wine-growing region, Portugal, and achieved an R2-score of 87% and an RMSE of 10.36%. Finally, the performance of the FTSW in the vineyard prediction model was compared with that of the Random Forest model, support vector regression, and linear regression. The results showed that BiLSTM performed better than the RF model on the unseen data, and the BiLSTM model can be considered a suitable model for the accurate prediction of the FTSW.
Research on Pillarless Mining by Gob-Side Caving under Soft Rock Roof Conditions: A Case Study
Authors: Hao Jian , Zhang Peizhe , Song Yingchao , Liu Haojie , Shi Yongkui , Liu Jiankang , Lu Guozhi
Published: February 2023

In China, soft rock roof makes up the majority of coal mine roof, yet it is easy to break due to low strength and poor integrity. As such, it is difficult for the traditional pillar-based roadway protection means and pillarless mining techniques to effectively control the roadway roof. In order to solve the problems with pillarless mining under soft rock roof conditions, using the 1510 working face of Xinyi Coal Mine as an example, a gob-side caving roadway forming (GSCRF) technique for broken immediate roof is developed. This paper discusses the adaptability and feasibility of this technology through theoretical modeling and on-site engineering testing. A roadway rock surrounding control scheme based on “cable + steel beams + yielding prop” is further designed, and field tests and monitoring are carried out. Field tests show that, during GSCRF of the 1510 working face, the maximum subsidence of the roof remains within 200 mm. The convergence of the two sides causes stabilization. The tension on the anchor cables is gradually becoming stable. The monitoring results show that the roadway has a good stress environment and the surrounding rock is effectively controlled. Compared with the traditional pillarless mining mode, this technology has the technical advantages of achieving complete elimination of coal pillars, reduced pressure on the roadway roof, and interference-free mining of the working face. The research outcome can provide useful reference for pillarless mining by GSCRF and a solution for pillarless mining under soft rock roof conditions.
A Multi-Center, Open-Label Exploratory Study to Assess Cognitive Function Response to Lifestyle Changes Plus Supplementation in Healthy Adults with Risk Factors Associated with Cognitive Decline
Authors: Lewis Erin D. , Apostol Margaret , Langston Jamie , Parker Alex , Evans Malkanthi
Published: February 2023

PreCODE is a multifaceted protocol that applies lifestyle modifications to improve cognitive decline. NeuroQ is a blend of ingredients that have been individually reported to benefit cognition. The objective of this open-label exploratory study was to evaluate the efficacy of PreCODE with NeuroQ on cognition in healthy adults with risk factors for cognitive decline. Thirty participants ≥45 years at-risk of cognitive decline underwent PreCODE with NeuroQ. Cognitive function was assessed by CNS-Vital Signs (CNS-VS) at 30, 60 and 90 days. Quality of life (QoL), sleepiness, depression, and healthy habits were assessed with the Medical Outcomes Survey, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire, and Life Habits Checklist, respectively. There was a 10, 12, and 14% increase in the neurocognitive index percentile scores from screening at Day 30, 60, and 90, respectively (p ≤ 0.01). The CNS-VS domains in psychomotor-, processing-, and motor-speed, complex- and sustained-attention, reaction time, cognitive flexibility, executive function, and working memory improved at Day 90 (p ≤ 0.04). Executive function, cognitive flexibility, processing speed, and working memory, improved by 12, 11, 10, and 7%, respectively, at Day 90. There were improvements in QoL, daytime sleepiness, depression, and lifestyle habits (p ≤ 0.014). NeuroQ was safe and well tolerated. PreCODE with NeuroQ improved cognitive function and QoL in adults at-risk of cognitive decline. Placebo- or comparator-controlled studies are warranted to confirm the effect on cognitive function.
A New 3D Marine Controlled-Source Electromagnetic Modeling Algorithm Based on Two New Types of Quadratic Edge Elements
Authors: Xiong Bin , Lu Yuguo , Chen Hanbo , Cheng Ziyu , Liu Hao , Han Yu
Published: February 2023

This study proposes a new algorithm for a higher-order vector finite element method based on two new types of second-order edge elements to solve the electromagnetic field diffusion problem in a 3D anisotropic medium. To avoid source singularity in the quasistatic variant of Maxwell’s function, a secondary field formulation was adopted. The modeling domain was discretized using two types of quadratic edge hexahedral elements, which were obtained using the edge unification method to reduce variables on each side of two conventional quadratic edge elements. Compared with the traditional quadratic element, the number of unknowns that needed to be solved was significantly reduced. The sparse linear equation of the finite element system was solved using an open-source direct solver called MUMPS. The numerical results demonstrated that the proposed algorithm has the same level of accuracy as the conventional vector finite element method and has a significant advantage over it in terms of computational cost.
Novel Real-Time Compensation Method for Machine Tool’s Ball Screw Thermal Error
Authors: Rong Ren , Zhou Huicheng , Huang Yubin , Yang Jianzhong , Xiang Hua
Published: February 2023

The real-time compensation of thermal error in ball screws is an effective means to improve the accuracy of machining tools. However, the trade-off between robustness and computational efficiency of existing ball screw thermal error models is complicated and not conducive to practical, high-precision, real-time error compensation. Focusing on this problem, we propose an iterative prediction model of screw thermal error based on a finite difference equation. By assuming an approximately linear relationship between heat generation and the ball screw’s convection power and feed speed, a simplified and more efficient identification of physical parameters needed for the iterative model is achieved. The proposed method is integrated with a three-axis drilling and tapping machine powered by an HNC–848D controller. A test piece machine using the proposed real-time thermal error compensation method exhibited a maximum machining error of 13 µm, compared to the 71 µm of an uncompensated specimen. The proposed method is demonstrated to improve machining accuracy, especially in the X- and Y- axes, and overcome the limitations of traditional thermal error prediction models.
Emerging Trends in Pharmacotoxicological and Forensic Sample Treatment Procedures
Authors: Greco Valentina , Giuffrida Alessandro , Locatelli Marcello , Savini Fabio , de Grazia Ugo , Ciriolo Luigi , Perrucci Miryam , Kabir Abuzar , Ulusoy Halil Ibrahim , D’Ovidio Cristian , Ali Imran
Published: February 2023

One of the most discussed topics concerns the sample preparation before the analysis and, therefore, all the operations necessary to eliminate the interferents, clean up the specimens, and extract the analytes of interest, reducing the matrix effect. This review highlights the fundamental steps in the treatment of postmortem samples used in forensic analysis. Through critical literature research, it was possible to choose among the countless works that could provide a general overview of the state-of-the-art in this field. Different biological matrices have been considered; blood and urine (the traditional biological fluids) are used to investigate the presence of substances that may have caused death, whilst other body fluids, such as bile and oral fluids, are still under discussion for their usability (and suitability). In the second part of the review, all the solid matrices obtained after autopsy were further divided into conventional and unconventional matrices to facilitate proper understanding. The choice of literature was also made according to the most widely used pretreatment techniques and the most representative innovative techniques.
Hybrid EWMA Control Chart under Bayesian Approach Using Ranked Set Sampling Schemes with Applications to Hard-Bake Process
Authors: Khan Imad , Khan Dost Muhammad , Noor-ul-Amin Muhammad , Khalil Umair , Alshanbari Huda M. , Ahmad Zubair
Published: February 2023

A memory-type control chart is an important tool of statistical process control for monitoring small to moderate shifts in the manufacturing process. Using the prior information by the Bayesian approach is helpful in control charts. In this paper, a new hybrid exponentially weighted moving average (HEWMA) control chart is suggested under the Bayesian theory using ranked set sampling (RSS) schemes for posterior and posterior predictive distribution with informative prior and different loss functions (LFs). The extensive Monto Carlo simulation is conducted to evaluate the overall performance of the proposed Bayesian HEWMA control chart through average-run-length (ARL) and standard-deviation of the run-length (SDRL). Finally, a numerical example of the hard-bake process in semiconductor manufacturing is used to check the working and execution of the proposed Bayesian HEWMA control-chart under different RSS schemes. The results reveal that the suggested Bayesian HEWMA control-chart under RSS schemes is more sensitive in detecting out-of-control signals than the Bayesian HEWMA and Bayesian AEWMA control-charts under simple random sampling.
Physicochemical Characteristics and Sensory Attributes of Yanggaeng Treated with Corni fructus Powder: A Pilot Study
Authors: Jang Hyunsoo , Lee Jisu , Kim Misook , Kim Inyong , Ha Jung-Heun
Published: February 2023

This study investigated the physicochemical properties and sensory attributes of Yanggaeng, a traditional dessert in Far East Asia, treated with a functional additive Corni fructus powder (CF) in various concentrations (0% [control; CON], 2%, 4%, and 6%). The proximate compositions, physicochemical properties, antioxidant capacities, texture properties, and consumers’ preferences of the CF-treated Yanggaeng were assessed. CF-treated Yanggaeng had decreased L* (lightness) and b* (yellowness) values and increased a* (redness) values and browning index (BI) due to the CF. Moreover, CF-treated Yanggaeng had significantly decreased pH and increased °Brix levels. Similarly, CF addition significantly increased the 1,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activities and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The elevation of the radical scavenging capacities may be due to the abundance of phenolic contents in CF. Furthermore, CF addition significantly changed the textural properties of Yanggaeng, such as increased hardness, gumminess, and chewiness. Notably, 6% CF-treated Yanggaeng significantly attenuated resilience and cohesion compared to the CON. In the consumers’ preferences, 2% CF-treated Yanggaeng had similar attributes (i.e., color, scent, flavor, sweetness, taste, overall acceptance, and purchase intention) as the CON, a typical Yanggaeng. Therefore, adding CF, a natural and edible antioxidative ingredient, in Yanggaeng may be acceptable to consumers with a significant alteration of physicochemical properties.
Low-Sidelobe Pattern Synthesis for Spaceborne Array Antenna Based on Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Hu Hongming , Li Huawang , Zhao Lulu , Jiang Xinglong , Yang Jiashuo , Zhang Yangyang
Published: February 2023

For the purpose of fulfilling the low sidelobe level (SLL) requirements for spaceborne phased array antenna pattern synthesis, this paper proposes a new improved whale optimization algorithm (IWOA). As a type of new heuristic algorithm inspired by whale hunting behavior, WOA has the advantages of simple structure, few parameters, fast optimization speed, and high precision. In this paper, improvements are made in three aspects of adaptive weight, spiral coefficient optimization, and optimal neighborhood perturbation, and the proposed algorithm is successfully applied to the intelligent calculation of antenna synthesis. In light of the engineering requirements, the mathematical model of the optimization problem is established, and the desired antenna pattern with high gain and low sidelobe is obtained using IWOA under the constraint that the amplitude variation is within 20 dB. Simulation results demonstrate that IWOA is superior in maximum sidelobe level (MSLL) suppression and convergence. Consequently, EM simulations were conducted on a 64-element planar array, with the results consistent with the theoretical simulation, verifying the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Evaluation Method for Ultimate Flexural State of Prestressed Precast Reinforced Concrete Beam–Column Connection with Debonded Partial Tendon
Authors: Jin Kiwoong , Ota Riku , Hao Linfei , Kitayama Kazuhiro
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a prestressed precast reinforced concrete (PC) beam–column connection incorporating posttensioned debonded partial tendons is introduced for PC frame structure. Compared with the conventional cast-in-place frames and many previously proposed connections for PC frames, this connection has the advantage of self-centering and low damage in strong earthquakes. In addition, the debonded partial tendons can reduce the posttensioning demand and further reduce site labor during construction and repair. In order to establish a performance evaluation method for the ultimate flexural limit of the proposed PC connection, an analytical model was developed to accurately reflect the deformation compatibility and force equilibrium conditions of the PC beam and column members, as well as the debonded partial tendons. Based on this, iterative and direct evaluation methods for the strength and deformation of the PC connections, as well as the strains of the debonded tendons, were developed. The proposed methods were verified by cyclic loading test on the beam–column connection subassemblages. It is concluded that the proposed method is sufficiently accurate and simple to be applied in engineering design, and is helpful to guarantee the self-centering and low-damage characteristics of the proposed connection against a strong earthquake.
Application of CNN Models to Detect and Classify Leakages in Water Pipelines Using Magnitude Spectra of Vibration Sound
Authors: Choi Jungyu , Im Sungbin
Published: February 2023

Conventional schemes to detect leakage in water pipes require leakage exploration experts. However, to save time and cost, demand for sensor-based leakage detection and automated classification systems is increasing. Therefore, in this study, we propose a convolutional neural network (CNN) model to detect and classify water leakage using vibration data collected by leakage detection sensors installed in water pipes. Experiment results show that the proposed CNN model achieves an F1-score of 94.82% and Matthew’s correlation coefficient of 94.47%, whereas the corresponding values for a support vector machine model are 80.99% and 79.86%, respectively. This study demonstrates the superior performance of the CNN-based leakage detection scheme with vibration sensors. This can help one to save detection time and cost incurred by skilled engineers. In addition, it is possible to develop an intelligent leak detection system based on the proposed one.
Lightweight and Privacy-Preserving Multi-Keyword Search over Outsourced Data
Authors: Zhao Meng , Liu Lingang , Ding Yong , Deng Hua , Liang Hai , Wang Huiyong , Wang Yujue
Published: February 2023

In cloud computing, documents can be outsourced to the cloud server to achieve flexible access control and efficient sharing among multiple users. The outsourced documents can be intelligently searched according to some keywords with the help of cloud server. During the search process, some private information of outsourced documents may be leaked since the keywords may contain sensitive information of users. However, existing privacy-preserving keyword search schemes have high computation complexity, which are not suitable for resource-constrained end devices—that is, the data processing and search trapdoor generation procedures require users to take resource-intensive computations, e.g., high-dimensional matrix operations, exponentiations and bilinear pairings, which are unaffordable by resource-constrained devices. To address the issues of efficiency and privacy for realizing sorted multi-keyword search over outsourced data in clouds, this paper proposes a lightweight privacy-preserving ranked multi-keyword search (PRMS) scheme, which is further extended to allow each outsourced document to be associated with multiple types of keywords. The searched documents can be sorted according to their similarity scores between the search query and the keyword index of documents, so that only when the similarity score exceeds a given threshold, the corresponding searched document will be returned. The security analysis demonstrates that the proposed PRMS schemes can guarantee the privacy of outsourced documents and keywords, and provides unlinkability for search trapdoors. Performance analysis and comparison show the practicality of the proposed PRMS schemes.
Digital Technology for Good: Path and Influence—Based on the Study of ESG Performance of Listed Companies in China
Authors: Wang Jingyong , Song Zixiang , Xue Lida
Published: February 2023

The relationship between digital technology and enterprise management is becoming increasingly close. Whether the application of new digital technology can guide enterprises and even the social economy to good governance is an urgent problem to be solved. This paper selects the data of listed companies from 2011 to 2020 as a sample to empirically test the impact of digital transformation on ESG performance. The methodology is as follows: (1) Using the least squares method to do the main regression test. (2) Using Heckman’s two-step method, Lag 1 and 2, instrumental variable method: two-stage regression, PSM-OLS and PSM-DID estimation, robust analysis to do endogenous treatment to ensure that the main regression test is persuasive. (3) Using mediating effect to test the mechanism of action. (4) Using the least squares method for further research. The results show that: (1) Digital transformation is conducive to ESG performance. (2) In industries with high monopolies, digital transformation is not conducive to ESG performance. (3) Further analysis shows that due to the influence of peer effect, the concept of technological goodness is transmitted through network relationships to support other enterprises in the market. This study provides a new perspective for studying the influencing factors of enterprise ESG performance and also provides a theoretical reference for enterprises to use digital technology to achieve good governance. The scope of our research, the purpose of which is to help enterprises manipulate technology better, focuses on the effect on enterprises brought by digital technology.
Low-Dose Non-Thermal Atmospheric Plasma Promotes the Proliferation and Migration of Human Normal Skin Cells
Authors: Wu Hui , Zhang Yan , Zhou Yuanyuan , Yan Zhuna , Chen Jinwu , Lu Tingting , Song Wencheng
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of low-dose non-thermal atmospheric plasma (NTP) on the proliferation and migration of human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) and its molecular mechanisms. (2) Methods: The effects of NTP on HaCaT cells were detected by cell viability, wound healing assay, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential detection, and western blot, and the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in low-dose NTP was explored. (3) Results: Results showed that the proportion of cells in G1-S phase transition, cell migration ability, and the expression of Cyclin D1 and STAT3 reached the peak at 10 s treatment group, while the cell viability and the expression of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, ERK, WNT, and β-catenin proteins reached the peak at 15 s treatment group. (4) Conclusions: These results manifested that ROS produced by low-dose NTP promoted the proliferation of HaCaT cells by activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and also promoted the migration by activating the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, these results will be useful for the application of low-dose NTP in the treatment of wound healing.
Dynamic Timed Automata for Reconfigurable System Modeling and Verification
Authors: Tigane Samir , Guerrouf Fayçal , Hamani Nadia , Kahloul Laid , Khalgui Mohamed , Ali Masood Ashraf
Published: February 2023

Modern discrete-event systems (DESs) are often characterized by their dynamic structures enabling highly flexible behaviors that can respond in real time to volatile environments. On the other hand, timed automata (TA) are powerful tools used to design various DESs. However, they lack the ability to naturally describe dynamic-structure reconfigurable systems. Indeed, TA are characterized by their rigid structures, which cannot handle the complexity of dynamic structures. To overcome this limitation, we propose an extension to TA, called dynamic timed automata (DTA), enabling the modeling and verification of reconfigurable systems. Additionally, we present a new algorithm that transforms DTA into semantic-equivalent TA while preserving their behavior. We demonstrate the usefulness and applicability of this new modeling and verification technique using an illustrative example.