bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constrained Motion Control of an Independent Metering System with Uncertain Loads
Authors: Helian Bobo , Wydra Marco , Geimer Marcus
Published: July 2023

Independent metering systems (IMSs) have been applied and researched in mobile machinery due to their advantages of reduced throttling energy losses and remarkable advances under negative load through decoupling actuator throttling control. Although IMSs have the control flexibility to deal with negative workloads, the control performance of the IMSs is challenged by uncertain loads in mobile operations, limiting the control accuracy. In addition, if the motion reference is improperly specified and exceeds the constraints, the pressure of the actuator may oscillate significantly and potentially result in control instability. In this study, a constrained adaptive robust control strategy is proposed for an IMS. An adaptive robust control strategy is designed for the meter-in and meter-out throttling to achieve precision motion control despite the nonlinearities and uncertainties of the electro-hydraulic IMS. The value of the uncertain workload is estimated in real-time and utilized in the model-based controller to improve control accuracy. In addition, a constrained trajectory planning approach is presented to handle out-of-constraint references and ensure motion tracking performance. This effectively prevents pressure fluctuations caused by the inappropriate reference.
Research on Positioning Control Strategy for a Hydraulic Support Pushing System Based on Iterative Learning
Authors: Hou Tengyan , Kou Ziming , Wu Juan , Jin Tianyi , Su Kaiyuan , Du Binghua
Published: July 2023

At present, the positioning control of the hydraulic support pushing systems in fully mechanized mining faces uses an electrohydraulic directional valve as the control component, while the current research mainly focuses on servo valves, proportional valves, high−speed on−off valves, and electromagnetic directional valves. At present, the positioning control for electrohydraulic directional valves is only a simple logical control. Therefore, in order to improve the positioning control accuracy of the hydraulic support pushing system, a predictive positioning control strategy based on iterative learning was designed. Firstly, mathematical modeling of the hydraulic support pulling process was carried out, and its state−space equation was established. Secondly, an iterative learning controller with a state observer was designed, in which the iterative learning method was used to predict the control advance in the positioning process, and the state observer was used to estimate the parameters that could not be measured by the system, so as to improve the control accuracy in the broaching process. Then, a SimulationX–Simulink joint simulation model of the position control system of a multi−cylinder pulling hydraulic support was built, and the designed iterative learning controller was compared with the BP neural network controller. Finally, a test platform for the hydraulic support pushing system was built, and the proposed control strategy was experimentally verified. The research results show that the iterative learning control strategy proposed for the electrohydraulic directional valve not only simplifies the design process of the controller but also has higher positioning control accuracy. The single−cylinder positioning control accuracy can be controlled within 10 mm, and the multi−cylinder coordinated positioning control accuracy can be controlled within 15 mm, which meets the accuracy requirements of the site.
Aerodynamic Exploration on Rough Airfoil Based on Overlapping Feathers of a Swift-Wing Structure
Authors: Huang Wei , Zhang Qing , Xu Jinsheng , Wang Jindong , Zheng Jian , Chen Xiong
Published: July 2023

To investigate the flow mechanism of feather-like rough airfoils based on swift wings, computational simulations were employed to explore their overall aerodynamic characteristics in comparison to equivalent smooth airfoils. The study focused on angles of attack ranging from 0° to 20° at low Reynolds numbers. The results reveal that the rough airfoil exhibits higher lift and lower drag compared to the smooth airfoil at moderate angles of attack ranging from 6° to 10°, resulting in significantly improved aerodynamic efficiency. Notably, at an angle of attack of 8°, the aerodynamic efficiency is increased by 19%. However, at angles of attack smaller than 6°, the increase in drag outweighs the increase in lift, leading to lower aerodynamic efficiency for the rough airfoil. Conversely, when the angle of attack exceeds 16°, both airfoils experience separated flow-dominated flow fields, resulting in comparable effective aerodynamic shapes and similar aerodynamic efficiencies. Furthermore, the study found that increasing the Reynolds number results in greater pressure differences in the flow field, leading to higher aerodynamic efficiency. These preliminary conclusions are valuable for elucidating the flight mechanisms of bird-feather-like wings and can inform the design or morphing design of bio-inspired micro aerial vehicles in the near future.
The Influence of Narrowband Interference on DME System Operation
Authors: Džunda Milan , Melníková Lucia
Published: July 2023

Within the new air traffic management concept, using the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), it is assumed that distance measurement equipment (DME) will be retained. The results of research carried out by several authors have confirmed that global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) can be put out of operation in cases of interference. Therefore, it is very timely to investigate the accuracy and resistance to interference of DME systems. The presented work contains the results of research in the field of assessment of the accuracy and resistance of a DME system, which works in conditions of narrowband interference, using modeling and simulation. Based on the derived model of the DME measurement signal, its parameters, and narrowband interference, algorithms for processing the measurement signals of a DME system in conditions of narrowband interference were derived. A quasi-optimal nonlinear filtering method was used in the derivation of the measurement signal-processing algorithms. A quadratic loss function was used as an optimality criterion, which allows us to obtain the results of measuring the parameters of the DME measurement signal as a minimum of the a posteriori mean error. Within this method, Gaussian approximation and large and small parameter methods were used. Simulation of the operation of the DME system confirmed that the measurement accuracy of this system depends on the stability of the frequency of the DME support generator, and also depends on the signal-to-noise ratio and the signal-to-interference ratio of the DME receiver input. Comparing the results of the DME system receiver designed by us with the parameters listed in in published works that discuss the accuracy of this system, we can conclude that its accuracy is much better. The simulation results confirmed that the potential accuracy of the distance measurement is equal to 2.2 m. However, the mentioned algorithms require substantial simplification to be used for real-time signal processing. This will be our next research direction.
The Emission from Rabbits Breeding in Slovakia
Authors: Tonhauzer Kristína , Zetochová Lenka , Szemesová Janka
Published: July 2023

Statistical surveys about rabbits in households brought interesting results about their breeding. The survey shows that approx. 8.3% of Slovak households breed rabbits, of which the majority are bred in the countryside (61%), followed by breeding in cities (35%), and 4% of households stated both options. As part of the investigation, information was also obtained on the method of breeding rabbits. The results showed that housing with the restriction of movement is the predominant breeding method. Housing without the restriction of movement is higher in cities compared to rural areas, while free breeding is absent in households for both options. The information on excrement recovery showed that approximately 59.5% of all farm waste is composted, 15.8% of respondents said that they apply farm excrement to the soil, and the remaining respondents did not answer. The post-processing survey results led to new estimates of methane and nitrous oxide emissions from domestic rabbit farming. The emissions were estimated using the methodology of the tier 2 approach outlined in the IPCC 2019 Refinement. The results indicated that rabbit breeding in households and farms in Slovakia generates an average of 0.51 Gg of methane and 0.13 Gg of nitrous oxide annually. Additionally, when free-range rabbit breeding is considered, emissions are 0.001 Gg of nitrous oxide. These greenhouse gas emissions from rabbit farming contribute to 7% of the total emissions from animal farming, ranking it as the third highest emitter after sheep. Consequently, it is imperative to prioritize the inclusion of this category in Slovakia’s national emissions report.
Developing a Subsurface Drip Irrigation Scheduling Mode Based on Water Evaporation: Impacts Studies on Cucumbers Planted in a Greenhouse in the North China Plain
Authors: Wang Xiaosen , Qin Jingtao , Jiang Mingliang , Fan Yixuan , Wang Sen
Published: July 2023

China is a country short of water resources, and improving the water use efficiency (WUE) in agriculture has become the only way to ensure sustainable development. In this article, subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) experiments of cucumber were implemented with a randomized block design comprising two factors and three levels, and the two factors were depth of drip belt buried and irrigation amount, which were determined by a 20 cm diameter pan’s water evaporation times its coefficient (Kp). The effects of schedule of SDI on soil evaporation (Es), evapotranspiration (ET), Kp, root dry matters, yield, and WUE of cucumber were studied. The results indicated that the Es and the ET decreased along with increasing depth of drip belt buried or decreasing amount of irrigation water applied. The relationships between ET and its total irrigation amount were significant linear positive correlations. Proportions of plant transpiration accounting for the ET were about 41~69% in two years, and it became bigger along with the increase of ET within a year. The Kp became smaller along with the reducing of ET. The roots of cucumber were mainly concentrated in the soil layer of 0~20 cm, and the two factors could only influence root dry weights of 0~60 cm soil layers significantly. The relationships between yield and ET were quadratic polynomial correlations. At last, an ultimate SDI scheduling mode based on water evaporation was established.
Digitization of Crop Nitrogen Modelling: A Review
Authors: Silva Luís , Conceição Luís Alcino , Lidon Fernando Cebola , Patanita Manuel , D’Antonio Paola , Fiorentino Costanza
Published: July 2023

Applying the correct dose of nitrogen (N) fertilizer to crops is extremely important. The current predictive models of yield and soil–crop dynamics during the crop growing season currently combine information about soil, climate, crops, and agricultural practices to predict the N needs of plants and optimize its application. Recent advances in remote sensing technology have also contributed to digital modelling of crop N requirements. These sensors provide detailed data, allowing for real-time adjustments in order to increase nutrient application accuracy. Combining these with other tools such as geographic information systems, data analysis, and their integration in modelling with experimental approaches in techniques such as machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence, it is possible to develop digital twins for complex agricultural systems. Creating digital twins from the physical field can simulate the impact of different events and actions. In this article, we review the state-of-the-art of modelling N needs by crops, starting by exploring N dynamics in the soil−plant system; we demonstrate different classical approaches to modelling these dynamics so as to predict the needs and to define the optimal fertilization doses of this nutrient. Therefore, this article reviews the currently available information from Google Scholar and ScienceDirect, using relevant studies on N dynamics in agricultural systems, different modelling approaches used to simulate crop growth and N dynamics, and the application of digital tools and technologies for modelling proposed crops. The cited articles were selected following the exclusion criteria, resulting in a total of 66 articles. Finally, we present digital tools and technologies that increase the accuracy of model estimates and improve the simulation and presentation of estimated results to the manager in order to facilitate decision-making processes.
The Diseases and Pests of Rubber Tree and Their Natural Control Potential: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Chen Liqiong , Xu Lidan , Li Xiaona , Wang Yilin , Feng Yun , Huang Guixiu
Published: July 2023

In order to trace the research history of diseases and pests in rubber tree and explore the potential for their natural control, a bibliometric analysis was conducted based on relevant documents retrieved from the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science (WoS) core collection SCI-E database. VOSviewer software was utilized to analyze the research distribution, scientific collaboration, knowledge structure, and research frontiers. The results show that annual publications on the diseases and pests of rubber tree have increased rapidly after 2005 after a long period of emergence and fluctuation. A total of 624 relevant publications from 51 countries/regions were identified. China was the most productive country with 152 documents, most of which were related to Colletotrichum leaf disease, powdery mildew, and other emerging diseases of rubber tree. France and Brazil produced rich research to tackle South American leaf blight, and have established a close collaborative relationship. Based on the analysis of themes and trend topics, pathogenicity mechanisms of fungal pathogens and plant defense mechanisms are currently hot topics. By further looking into the research, the defense-related genes of rubber tree and antagonistic mechanisms behind candidate biocontrol agents reveal great potential in developing natural control strategies. This study provides a useful reference about the progress and evolution of research into diseases and pests in rubber tree.
Ptyctimous Mites (Acari, Oribatida) of Peru with the Description of an Extraordinary New Phthiracaroid Mite from the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Niedbała Wojciech , Adamski Zbigniew , Laniecki Ronald , Magowski Wojciech L.
Published: July 2023

Protophthiracarus afthonos sp. nov. is described and illustrated using line drawings, transmitted light and SEM imaging. It is characterized by an extraordinary richness of notogastral setae (ca. 166 pairs) that has been previously unseen among phthiracaroid mites. The species originates from the material collected from the litter of primary forest in the Peruvian Andes. The genus Protophthiracarus is well represented in the Neotropical Region. Many species of ptyctimous mites have been found in Peru, representing both widespread and endemic biogeographic elements. Among a total of 37 species, 20 from Peru have been described for the first time. Currently, the ptyctimous fauna consists of 12 endemite, 11 neotropical, 4 semicosmopolitan and 9 pantropical biogeographic elements.
Further Study of the Polar Group’s Influence on the Antibacterial Activity of the 3-Substituted Quinuclidine Salts with Long Alkyl Chains
Authors: Odžak Renata , Crnčević Doris , Sabljić Antonio , Krce Lucija , Paladin Antonela , Primožič Ines , Šprung Matilda
Published: July 2023

Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are among the most potent antimicrobial agents increasingly used by humans as disinfectants, antiseptics, surfactants, and biological dyes. As reports of bacterial co- and cross-resistance to QACs and their toxicity have emerged in recent years, new attempts are being made to develop soft QACs by introducing hydrolyzable groups that allow their controlled degradation. However, the development of such compounds has been hindered by the structural features that affect the bioactivity of QACs, one of them being polarity of the substituent near the quaternary center. To further investigate the influence of the polar group on the bioactivity of QACs, we synthesized 3-aminoquinuclidine salts for comparison with their structural analogues, 3-acetamidoquinuclidines. We found that the less polar amino-substituted compounds exhibited improved antibacterial activity over their more polar amide analogues. In addition to their better minimum inhibitory concentrations, the candidates were excellent at suppressing Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation and killing bacteria almost immediately, as shown by the flow cytometry measurements. In addition, two candidates, namely QNH2-C14 and QNH2-C16, effectively suppressed bacterial growth even at concentrations below the MIC. QNH2-C14 was particularly effective at subinhibitory concentrations, inhibiting bacterial growth for up to 6 h. In addition, we found that the compounds targeted the bacterial membrane, leading to its perforation and subsequent cell death. Their low toxicity to human cells and low potential to develop bacterial resistance suggest that these compounds could serve as a basis for the development of new QACs.
Biomarkers of Neonatal Sepsis: Where We Are and Where We Are Going
Authors: Boscarino Giovanni , Migliorino Rossana , Carbone Giulia , Davino Giusy , Dell’Orto Valentina Giovanna , Perrone Serafina , Principi Nicola , Esposito Susanna
Published: July 2023

Neonatal sepsis is a bacterial bloodstream infection leading to severe clinical manifestations frequently associated with death or irreversible long-term deficits. Antibiotics are the drug of choice to treat sepsis, regardless of age. In neonates, the lack of reliable criteria for a definite diagnosis and the supposition that an early antibiotic administration could reduce sepsis development in children at risk have led to a relevant antibiotic overuse for both prevention and therapy. The availability of biomarkers of neonatal sepsis that could alert the physician to an early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis could improve the short and long-term outcomes of true sepsis cases and reduce the indiscriminate and deleterious use of preventive antibiotics. The main aim of this narrative review is to summarize the main results in this regard and to detail the accuracy of currently used biomarkers for the early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. Literature analysis showed that, despite intense research, the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis and the conduct of antibiotic therapy cannot be at present decided on the basis of a single biomarker. Given the importance of the problem and the need to reduce the abuse of antibiotics, further studies are urgently required. However, instead of looking for new biomarkers, it seems easier and more productive to test combinations of two or more of the presently available biomarkers. Moreover, studies based on omics technologies should be strongly boosted. However, while waiting for new information, the use of the clinical scores prepared by some scientific institutions could be suggested. Based on maternal risk factors and infant clinical indicators, sepsis risk can be calculated, and a significant reduction in antibiotic consumption can be obtained.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Potential, and Nutritional Evaluation of Cultivated Sorghum Grains: A Combined Experimental, Theoretical, and Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Jaćimović Simona , Kiprovski Biljana , Ristivojević Petar , Dimić Dušan , Nakarada Đura , Dojčinović Biljana , Sikora Vladimir , Teslić Nemanja , Pantelić Nebojša Đ.
Published: July 2023

Sorghum grain (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a gluten-free cereal with excellent nutritional value and is a good source of antioxidants, including polyphenols, as well as minerals with proven health benefits. Herein, the phenolic composition, elemental profile, and antioxidant activity of sixteen food-grade sorghum grains (S1–S16) grown under agroecological conditions in Serbia were determined. Nine phenolic compounds characteristic of sorghum grains, such as luteolinidin, 5-methoxyluteolinidin, luteolidin derivative, luteolidin glucoside, apigeninidin, 7-methoxyapigeninidin, apigeninidin glucoside, and cyanidin derivative, were quantified. The antioxidant potential of the analyzed sorghum grains was evaluated by UV/Vis (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectroscopy (hydroxyl and ascorbyl radical scavenging assays). The content of macro- and microelements was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission spectroscopy. Theoretical daily intakes of selected major and trace elements were assessed and compared with the Recommended Daily Allowance or Adequate Intake. Sample S8 had the highest amount of phenolic compounds, while S4, S6, and S8 exhibited the strongest antioxidative potential. The sorghum studied could completely satisfy the daily needs of macro- (K, Mg, and P) and microelements (Se, Zn, Fe). Pattern recognition techniques confirmed the discrimination of samples based on phenolic profile and elemental analysis and recognized the main markers responsible for differences between the investigated samples. The reaction between hydroxyl radicals and luteolinidin/apigeninidin was investigated by Density Functional Theory and thermodynamically preferred mechanism was determined.
The Evolution and Ecology of Oxidative and Antioxidant Status: A Comparative Approach in African Mole-Rats
Authors: Jacobs Paul. J. , Hart Daniel W. , Merchant Hana N. , Voigt Cornelia , Bennett Nigel C.
Published: July 2023

The naked mole-rat of the family Bathyergidae has been the showpiece for ageing research as they contradict the traditional understanding of the oxidative stress theory of ageing. Some other bathyergids also possess increased lifespans, but there has been a remarkable lack of comparison between species within the family Bathyergidae. This study set out to investigate how plasma oxidative markers (total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and the oxidative stress index (OSI)) differ between five species and three subspecies of bathyergids, differing in their maximum lifespan potential (MLSP), resting metabolic rate, aridity index (AI), and sociality. We also investigated how oxidative markers may differ between captive and wild-caught mole-rats. Our results reveal that increased TOS, TAC, and OSI are associated with increased MLSP. This pattern is more prevalent in the social-living species than the solitary-living species. We also found that oxidative variables decreased with an increasing AI and that wild-caught individuals typically have higher antioxidants. We speculate that the correlation between higher oxidative markers and MLSP is due to the hypoxia-tolerance of the mole-rats investigated. Hormesis (the biphasic response to oxidative stress promoting protection) is a likely mechanism behind the increased oxidative markers observed and promotes longevity in some members of the Bathyergidae family.
Goji-Berry-Mediated Green Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles and Their Promising Effect on Reducing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Experimental Hyperglycemia
Authors: David Luminita , Morosan Valentina , Moldovan Bianca , Filip Gabriela Adriana , Baldea Ioana
Published: July 2023

The present report focuses on a rapid and convenient method applicable in the green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using goji berry (Lycium barbarum—LB) extracts rich in antioxidant compounds, as well as on the structural analysis and evaluation of the induced antioxidant protection and anti-inflammatory effects of the synthesized gold nanoparticles upon endothelial cells (HUVECs) exposed to hyperglycemia. The synthesized AuNPs were characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), whereas the presence of bioactive compounds from the L. barbarum fruit extract on the surface of the nanoparticles was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The antioxidant activity of the biosynthesized gold nanoparticles was evaluated on the HUVEC cell line. The results reveal that AuNPs with a predominantly spherical shape and an average size of 30 nm were obtained. The UV-Vis spectrum showed a characteristic absorption band at λmax = 536 nm of AuNPs. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids and carotenoids acting as capping and stabilizing agents of AuNPs. Both the L. barbarum extract and AuNPs were well tolerated by HUVECs, increased the antioxidant defense and decreased the production of inflammatory cytokines induced via hyperglycemia-mediated oxidative damage.
Inverse Q-Filtering as a Tool for Seismic Resolution Enhancement: A Case Study from the Carpathian Foredeep
Authors: Łapinkiewicz Artur Piotr , Martuś Michał , Wachowicz-Pyzik Anna , Cygal Adam , Maćkowski Tomasz , Stefaniuk Michał
Published: July 2023

In this study, we analyze the quality factor- Q derived from the Vertical Seismic Profiling (VSP) and sonic log data that was performed in the DS-2 borehole located in the Carpathian Foredeep. We use the obtained quality factor distributions in the inverse Q-filtering (IQF) procedure during active seismic data processing. Another very important and, unfortunately, subjective in nature parameter is the gain function applied to seismic data while performing the IQF. To calculate Q from VSP data we use an iterative approach to the spectral ratio method where we use several shallowest receivers as reference. We observe high variability of the obtained Q values, depending on the reference receiver, however, depth distribution of Q was consistent regardless To increase reliability of the obtained values, an additional method of Q measurements is incorporated, i.e., acoustic travel time dispersion method. We show that incorporating inverse Q-filtering to active seismic data processing flow allows to enhance the vertical resolution of 2D seismic data.
A Novel Functional Refined Olive Oil, Enhanced with Orange Peel Extract, Modulates Postprandial LDL-Cholesterol Responses in Individuals at Cardiometabolic Risk: A Pilot Randomized, Controlled, Cross-Over Nutritional Intervention
Authors: Papagianni Olga , Kaloteraki Chrysoula , Kandyliari Aikaterini , Potsaki Panagiota , Bousdouni Panorea , Almpounioti Kalliopi , Ouzaid Camille , Mavrou Anna-Kyriaki , Panteli Vasiliki , Loukas Thomas , Magkoutis Athanasios , Skalkos Dimitrios , Karantonis Haralabos C. , Koutelidakis Antonios E.
Published: July 2023

Olive oil, as the main source of polyphenols in the Mediterranean diet pattern, is mentioned to show remarkable postprandial bioactivity, contributing to the reduction of cardiometabolic risk factors. In recent years, the consumption of refined olive oil, instead of other olive oil classes, led to a reduced intake of polyphenols from the usual diet. This controlled, human nutritional intervention investigated whether the enhancement of refined olive oil with orange peel extract may modulate postprandial lipemia, glycemia, and oxidative stress in individuals at cardiometabolic risk. In a cross-over framework, 21 participants aged 30–65 years, who met the eligibility criteria, received a fat and carbohydrate meal of mashed potatoes, homogenized with refined olive oil (50 mL) or the functional olive oil, enhanced with 10% orange peel extract, intervening a washout week. Blood draws were performed in fasting, 30 min, 1.5 h, and 3 h after the meal intake. Plasma lipids, glucose, uric acid, and total plasma antioxidant capacity, according to the FRAP method, were measured at each timepoint. A significant reduction of LDL-cholesterol was observed, 1.5 h and 3 h after the functional meal intake, compared to non-significant changes after the control meal (p < 0.05). No other statistically significant interactions were detected to the remaining biomarkers (p > 0.05). Further investigation is needed for safer conclusions about the postprandial modulation of cardiometabolic risk factors by the functional olive oil enhanced with orange peel extract.
A Lightweight and Partitioned CNN Algorithm for Multi-Landslide Detection in Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Mo Peijun , Li Dongfen , Liu Mingzhe , Jia Jiaru , Chen Xin
Published: July 2023

Landslide detection is crucial for natural disaster risk management. Deep-learning-based object-detection algorithms have been shown to be effective in landslide studies. However, advanced algorithms currently used for landslide detection require high computational complexity and memory requirements, limiting their practical applicability. In this study, we developed a high-resolution dataset for landslide-prone regions in China by extracting historical landslide remote sensing images from the Google Earth platform. We propose a lightweight LP-YOLO algorithm based on YOLOv5, with a more-lightweight backbone that incorporates our designed PartitionNet and neck equipped with CSPCrossStage. We constructed and added the vertical and horizontal (VH) block to the backbone, which explores and aggregates long-range information with two directions, while consuming a small amount of computational cost. A new feature fusion structure is proposed to boost information flow and enhance the location accuracy. To speed up the model learning process and improve the accuracy, the SCYLLA-IoU (SIoU) bounding box regression loss function was used to replace the complete IoU (CIoU) loss function. The experimental results demonstrated that our proposed model achieved the highest detection performance (53.7% of Precision, 49% of AP50 and 25.5% of AP50:95) with a speed of 74 fps. Compared to the YOLOv5 model, the proposed model achieved 4% improvement for Precision, 2.6% improvement for AP50, and 2.5% for AP50:95, while reducing the model parameters and FLOPs by 38.4% and 53.1%, respectively. The results indicated that the proposed lightweight method provides a technical guidance for achieving reliable and real-time automatic landslide detection and can be used for disaster prevention and mitigation.
A Study of Drought and Flood Cycles in Xinyang, China, Using the Wavelet Transform and M-K Test
Authors: Gu Xinchen , Zhang Pei , Zhang Wenjia , Liu Yang , Jiang Pan , Wang Shijie , Lai Xiaoying , Long Aihua
Published: July 2023

Accurately identifying and predicting droughts can provide local managers with a basis for decision-making. The Xinyang region is prone to droughts and floods, which have a large impact on local agriculture and socio-economics. This paper employs precipitation data from the Xinyang region to provide a scientific basis for drought and flood control measures in this region. The data are first treated with standardized precipitation indices (SPIs) on three-month, six-month, and nine-month time scales. Subsequently, a Morlet wavelet analysis is performed for each of the three time scales analyzed for the SPI. The results show multiple time scales of drought and flood disasters in the Xinyang region. The cycles of drought and flood disasters in the Xinyang region show different fluctuations on different SPI scales. The SPI time series reflect a strong fluctuation period of 17a for drought and flood disasters in the Xinyang region. An analysis of the variance of the wavelet coefficients showed that the first main cycle of drought and flood disasters in the Xinyang region is 7a, and the second and third sub-cycles are 4a and 13a, respectively. We conclude that floods are more frequent than droughts in Xinyang and are more likely to occur from 2017 to 2021, with a subsequent shift to droughts. Local managers should put drought prevention measures in place to deal with droughts after 2021.
Evidence in Clinical Studies for the Role of Wall Thickness in Ascending Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms: A Scoping Review
Authors: Debeij Gijs P. , Parikh Shaiv , Delhaas Tammo , Bidar Elham , Reesink Koen D.
Published: July 2023

Background: Ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm is a chronic degenerative pathology characterized by dilatation of this segment of the aorta. Clinical guidelines use aortic diameter and growth rate as predictors of rupture and dissection. However, these guidelines neglect the effects of tissue remodeling, which may affect wall thickness. The present study aims to systematically review observational studies to examine to what extent wall thickness is considered and measured in clinical practice. Methods: Using PubMed and Web of Science, studies were identified with data on ascending aortic wall thickness, morphology, aortic diameter, and measurement techniques. Results: 15 included studies report several methods by which wall thickness is measured. No association was observed between wall thickness and aortic diameter across included studies. Wall thickness values appear not materially different between aneurysmatic aortas and non-aneurysmal aortas. Conclusions: The effects on and consequences of wall thickness changes during ATAA formation are ill-defined. Wall thickness values for aneurysmatic aortas can be similar to aortas with normal diameters. Given the existing notion that wall thickness is a determinant of mechanical stress homeostasis, our review exposes a clear need for consistent as well as clinically applicable methods and studies to quantify wall thickness in ascending aortic aneurysm research.
Protein Kinase C at the Crossroad of Mutations, Cancer, Targeted Therapy and Immune Response
Authors: Aquino Angelo , Bianchi Nicoletta , Terrazzan Anna , Franzese Ornella
Published: July 2023

The frequent PKC dysregulations observed in many tumors have made these enzymes natural targets for anticancer applications. Nevertheless, this considerable interest in the development of PKC modulators has not led to the expected therapeutic benefits, likely due to the complex biological activities regulated by PKC isoenzymes, often playing ambiguous and protective functions, further driven by the occurrence of mutations. The structure, regulation and functions of PKCs have been extensively covered in other publications. Herein, we focused on PKC alterations mostly associated with complete functional loss. We also addressed the modest yet encouraging results obtained targeting PKC in selected malignancies and the more frequent negative clinical outcomes. The reported observations advocate the need for more selective molecules and a better understanding of the involved pathways. Furthermore, we underlined the most relevant immune mechanisms controlled by PKC isoforms potentially impacting the immune checkpoint inhibitor blockade-mediated immune recovery. We believe that a comprehensive examination of the molecular features of the tumor microenvironment might improve clinical outcomes by tailoring PKC modulation. This approach can be further supported by the identification of potential response biomarkers, which may indicate patients who may benefit from the manipulation of distinctive PKC isoforms.
Combination Therapy with Trastuzumab and Niraparib: Quantifying Early Proliferative Alterations in HER2+ Breast Cancer Models
Authors: Mansur Ameer , Song Patrick N. , Lu Yun , Burns Andrew C. , Sligh Luke , Yang Eddy S. , Sorace Anna G.
Published: July 2023

HER2–targeted treatments have improved survival rates in HER2+ breast cancer patients, yet poor responsiveness remains a major clinical obstacle. Recently, HER2+ breast cancer cells, both resistant and responsive to HER2–targeted therapies, have demonstrated sensitivity to poly–(ADP–ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibition, independent of DNA repair deficiencies. This study seeks to describe biological factors that precede cell viability changes in response to the combination of trastuzumab and PARP inhibition. Treatment response was evaluated in HER2+ and HER2– breast cancer cells. Further, we evaluated the utility of 3′–Deoxy–3′–[18F]–fluorothymidine positron emission tomography ([18F]FLT–PET) imaging for early response assessment in a HER2+ patient derived xenograft (PDX) model of breast cancer. In vitro, we observed decreased cell viability. In vivo, we observed decreased inhibition in tumor growth in combination therapies, compared to vehicle and monotherapy–treated cohorts. Early assessment of cellular proliferation corresponds to endpoint cell viability. Standard summary statistics of [18F]FLT uptake from PET were insensitive to early proliferative changes. Meanwhile, histogram analysis of [18F]FLT uptake indicated the potential translatability of imaging proliferation biomarkers. This study highlights the potential of combined trastuzumab and PARP inhibition in HER2+ breast cancer, while demonstrating a need for optimization of [18F]FLT–PET quantification in heterogeneous models of HER2+ breast cancer.
Radiomics-Clinical AI Model with Probability Weighted Strategy for Prognosis Prediction in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Tang Fuk-Hay , Fong Yee-Wai , Yung Shing-Hei , Wong Chi-Kan , Tu Chak-Lap , Chan Ming-To
Published: July 2023

In this study, we propose a radiomics clinical probability-weighted model for the prediction of prognosis for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The model combines radiomics features extracted from radiotherapy (RT) planning images with clinical factors such as age, gender, histology, and tumor stage. CT images with radiotherapy structures of 422 NSCLC patients were retrieved from The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA). Radiomic features were extracted from gross tumor volumes (GTVs). Five machine learning algorithms, namely decision trees (DT), random forests (RF), extreme boost (EB), support vector machine (SVM) and generalized linear model (GLM) were optimized by a voted ensemble machine learning (VEML) model. A probabilistic weighted approach is used to incorporate the uncertainty associated with both radiomic and clinical features and to generate a probabilistic risk score for each patient. The performance of the model is evaluated using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC). The Radiomic model, clinical factor model, and combined radiomic clinical probability-weighted model demonstrated good performance in predicting NSCLC survival with AUC of 0.941, 0.856 and 0.949, respectively. The combined radiomics clinical probability-weighted enhanced model achieved significantly better performance than the radiomic model in 1-year survival prediction (chi-square test, p < 0.05). The proposed model has the potential to improve NSCLC prognosis and facilitate personalized treatment decisions.
Trem2 Enhances Demyelination in the Csf1r+/− Mouse Model of Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Biundo Fabrizio , Chitu Violeta , Gökhan Şölen , Chen Edward , Oppong-Asare Jude , Stanley E. Richard
Published: July 2023

Colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor (CSF-1R)-related leukoencephalopathy (CRL) is a neurodegenerative disease that triggers early demyelination, leading to an adult-onset dementia. Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-2 (TREM2) is a microglial receptor that promotes the activation of microglia and phagocytic clearance of apoptotic neurons and myelin debris. We investigated the role of Trem2 in the demyelination observed in the Csf1r+/− mouse model of CRL. We show that elevation of Trem2 expression and callosal demyelination occur in 4–5-month-old Csf1r+/− mice, prior to the development of symptoms. Absence of Trem2 in the Csf1r+/− mouse attenuated myelin pathology and normalized microglial densities and morphology in the corpus callosum. Trem2 absence also prevented axonal degeneration and the loss of cortical layer V neurons observed in Csf1r+/− mice. Furthermore, the absence of Trem2 prevented the accumulation of myelin-derived lipids in Csf1r+/− macrophages and reduced the production of TNF-α after myelin engulfment. These data suggest that TREM2 contributes to microglial dyshomeostasis in CRL.
Induction of Periodontitis Using Bacterial Strains Isolated from the Human Oral Microbiome in an Experimental Rat Model
Authors: Ancuta Diana Larisa , Alexandru Diana Mihaela , Crivineanu Maria , Coman Cristin
Published: July 2023

Periodontal disease is that condition resulting in the destruction of periodontal tissues, bone resorption, and tooth loss, the etiology of which is linked to immunological and microbiological factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential trigger of periodontal disease in a rat model using bacterial species incriminated in the pathology of human periodontitis and to establish their optimal concentrations capable of reproducing the disease, with the idea of subsequently developing innovative treatments for the condition. In this study, we included 15 male Wistar rats, aged 20 weeks, which we divided into three groups. In each group, we applied ligatures with gingival retraction wire on the maxillary incisors. The ligature and the gingival sac were contaminated by oral gavage with a mixture of fresh cultures of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A.a), Fusobacterium nucleatum (F.n) and Streptococcus oralis (S.o) in concentrations of 108, 109, and 1010 CFU/mL each for 5 days a week for 4 weeks. During the clinical monitoring period of 28 days, overlapped with the period of oral contamination, we followed the expression of clinical signs specific to periodontitis. We also monitored the evolution of body weight and took weekly samples from the oral cavity for the microbiological identification of the tested bacteria and blood samples for hematological examination. At the end of the study, the animals were euthanized, and the ligated incisors were taken for histopathological analysis. The characteristic symptomatology of periodontal disease was expressed from the first week of the study and was maintained until the end, and we were able to identify the bacteria during each examination. Hematologically, the number of neutrophils decreased dramatically (p < 0.0001) in the case of the 109 group, unlike the other groups, as did the number of lymphocytes. Histopathologically, we identified neutrophilic infiltrate in all groups, as well as the presence of coccobacilli, periodontal tissue hyperplasia, and periodontal lysis. In the 109 group, we also observed pulpal tissue with necrotic bone fragments and pyogranulomatous inflammatory reaction. By corroborating the data, we can conclude that for the development of periodontal disease using A.a, F.n, and S.o, a concentration of 109 or 1010 CFU/mL is required, which must necessarily contaminate a ligature thread applied to the level of the rat’s dental pack.
Effects of Sky View Factor on Thermal Environment in Different Local Climate Zoning Building Scenarios—A Case Study of Beijing, China
Authors: Wang Rongtao , Liu Rui , Chen Qiang , Cheng Qianhao , Du Mingyi
Published: July 2023

As an essential structural indicator of buildings, sky view factor (SVF) is one of the most critical factors affecting the urban thermal environment. However, the relationship between SVF and the thermal environment at the neighborhood scale has not been adequately studied. Therefore, this paper investigates the relationship between SVF and air temperature in different building scenarios based on the Local Climate Zone (LCZ) classification framework. Firstly, the study is based on multi-source urban data and the Open Street Map (OSM) to map the local climate zones in Beijing. Then, a simulation model with different LCZs was constructed based on realistic scenarios using the microclimate simulation software ENVI-met, and the thermal environment was simulated in 24 h on a single day in summer. Finally, the SVF and air temperature relationship under different LCZ scenarios was calculated and analyzed. The results show that (1) the SVF values of LCZ 1, LCZ 2, and LCZ 5 show a more apparent positive correlation with air temperature than other categories, and the SVF values of LCZ 6–9 show a negative and then positive correlation with air temperature; (2) in the morning, the dense building areas show a weak correlation with air temperature, and the differences in air temperature corresponding to the SVF values in different zones are greater; (3) in the morning, the air temperature in the dense building areas showed a weak correlation, the difference between the SVF values and the air temperature in different intervals was different, and when the SVF was larger or smaller, the air temperature change was smaller and concentrated, and the correlation between the air temperature and the SVF in the open building areas was not obvious; (4) with 12:00 as the dividing line, the SVF and the air temperature in all categories showed a weak positive correlation after this time. This study can provide guidance on optimizing building layouts and mitigating the impacts of urban heat on human health.
Ground and Pile Vibrations Induced by Pile Driving
Authors: Sun Zhenzhou , Yu Huafeng , Li Chengfeng , Liu Run , Li Qingxin , Su Chunyang
Published: July 2023

Pile driving in marine engineering causes a vibration response in the surrounding soil and adjacent piles, which may affect the safety of adjacent structures supported by the pile foundation and the internal equipment of the adjacent structures. Therefore, for the safe completion of a project, it is of great significance to study the ground and the pile vibrations induced by pile driving. Based on measurement data from a Rudong wind farm engineering in Jiangsu Province, a numerical model of the vibration response induced by pile driving was established. Based on various methods of calculating pile driving loading, the influence of pile driving loading characteristics on the vibration response was analyzed. Furthermore, the influence of pile driving on the acceleration of the ground and adjacent piles was studied, including the impacts of the distance between the driving pile, the existing pile and the driving depth. The results show that the acceleration of the ground has a good linear relationship with the distance in the logarithmic coordinate system, and the acceleration of the existing pile attenuates with an increasing driving depth of the driving pile. A simplified evaluation method for the peak acceleration response of adjacent sites impacted by pile driving was proposed, which provides a reference for ocean engineering construction in the Huangsha Ocean area of China.