bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Shelf Life of Yellow Passion Fruit with an Edible Biocomposite Coating Based on Chitosan, Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles, and Beeswax
Authors: da Silva Wedson Aleff Oliveira , Aroucha Edna Maria Mendes , de Araújo Nícolas Oliveira , Santos Francisco Klebson Gomes dos , de Medeiros José Francismar , de Sousa Arthur Lira Vasconcelos , de Oliveira Queiroz Luiz Paulo , de Lima Leite Ricardo Henrique
Published: July 2024

Yellow or sour passion fruit is a climacteric fruit with a high rate of respiration and ethylene production, and postharvest technology is needed to extend its shelf life. This study investigated the properties of a biocomposite film with chitosan (CH) incorporated with beeswax (BW) and graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles for use as an edible coating to extend the shelf life of yellow passion fruit at 22 °C and 70% RH for eight days. CH films associated with BW showed lower water vapor permeability (WVP) than films with CH alone. However, adding GO to the CH + BW biopolymer matrix improved the WVP, decreased the solubility (12.8%), and increased the opacity of the film by 9% compared to those of the CH film. Fruits coated with CH + BW or CH + BW + GO exhibited a reduction in respiration rate, a slower ripening process by approximately 3 days, and a significant decrease in weight loss. This also resulted in a higher soluble solids content and increased antioxidative capacity of the pulp. The incorporation of GO into the CH + BW matrix resulted in a more pronounced delay of fruit ripening, as evidenced by the lower depigmentation of the peel at eight days, with a lightness approximately 10.7% lower at 54.92, a chroma value 16.5% lower at 49.33, a hue angle 7.2% higher at 92.56, a soluble solid (SS) content 16.7% higher at 11.32°Brix, and an acidity 31.9% higher at 4.18% compared to the control. Furthermore, the biopolymer packaging led to a higher consumer acceptance score for the fruit.
Occurrence of Wetness on the Fruit Surface Modeled Using Spatio-Temporal Temperature Data from Sweet Cherry Tree Canopies
Authors: Tapia-Zapata Nicolas , Winkler Andreas , Zude-Sasse Manuela
Published: July 2024

Typically, fruit cracking in sweet cherry is associated with the occurrence of free water at the fruit surface level due to direct (rain and fog) and indirect (cold exposure and dew) mechanisms. Recent advances in close range remote sensing have enabled the monitoring of the temperature distribution with high spatial resolution based on light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and thermal imaging. The fusion of LiDAR-derived geometric 3D point clouds and merged thermal data provides spatially resolved temperature data at the fruit level as LiDAR 4D point clouds. This paper aimed to investigate the thermal behavior of sweet cherry canopies using this new method with emphasis on the surface temperature of fruit around the dew point. Sweet cherry trees were stored in a cold chamber (6 °C) and subsequently scanned at different time intervals at room temperature. A total of 62 sweet cherry LiDAR 4D point clouds were identified. The estimated temperature distribution was validated by means of manual reference readings (n = 40), where average R2 values of 0.70 and 0.94 were found for ideal and real scenarios, respectively. The canopy density was estimated using the ratio of the number of LiDAR points of fruit related to the canopy. The occurrence of wetness on the surface of sweet cherry was visually assessed and compared to an estimated dew point (Ydew) index. At mean Ydew of 1.17, no wetness was observed on the fruit surface. The canopy density ratio had a marginal impact on the thermal kinetics and the occurrence of wetness on the surface of sweet cherry in the slender spindle tree architecture. The modelling of fruit surface wetness based on estimated fruit temperature distribution can support ecophysiological studies on tree architectures considering resilience against climate change and in studies on physiological disorders of fruit.
Escherichia coli Inoculation Decreases the Photosynthetic Performance on Tomato Plants: Clarifying the Impact of Human Commensal Bacteria on Transient Plant Hosts
Authors: Gomes Anicia , Santos Conceição , Dinis Lia-Tânia , Mendes Rafael J.
Published: July 2024

The commensal/pathogenic Escherichia coli affects humans and animals, being present in diverse environmental niches, possibly surviving due to its adaptation to transient plant hosts like crops, increasing the risk of foodborne diseases. E. coli interaction with the plant host remains unknown, particularly the impacts on photosynthesis. We hypothesize that E. coli influences the tomato transient host’s photosynthetic capacity. To validate this hypothesis, we exposed 57-day-old tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) to different inoculation conditions, namely, non-inoculated plants (negative control, C−); plants directly injected with E. coli SL6.1 (107 CFU/mL) (positive control, C+); plants irrigated one time with E. coli SL6.1 (107 CFU/mL); and plants chronically irrigated with E. coli SL6.1 (104 CFU/mL). No significant changes were observed in chlorophyll fluorescence, pigments’ contents, morphological aspects, and fruiting in all conditions. However, irrigated plants (chronically and one-time contaminated) had decreased stomatal conductance (gs, 31.07 and 34.42 mol m−2 s−1, respectively, vs. 53.43 and 48.08 mol m−2 s−1 in C− and C+, respectively), transpiration rate (E, 0.32 and 0.35 mol m−2 s−1 in chronically and one-time contaminated conditions vs. 0.57 and 0.48 mol m−2 s−1 in C− and C+, respectively), and a trend of increased intrinsic carboxylation (Ci, 384 and 361 ppm in chronically and one-time irrigated plants vs. 321 and 313 ppm in C− and C+, respectively). The one-time inoculated plants presented more severe effects than the remaining conditions, with lower net photosynthetic rate (PN, 0.93 vs. 3.94–5.96 μmol (CO2) m−2 s−1 in the other conditions), intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE, 33.1 vs. 74.51–184.40 μmol (CO2)/mmol (H2O) in the chronically irrigated and the control plants), and intrinsic carboxylation efficiency (iCE, 0.003 vs. 0.012–0.022 μmol (CO2)/ppm in the remaining conditions). Our data support that some observed effects are similar to those associated with phytopathogenic bacteria. Lastly, we propose that the decrease in some parameters of gas exchange requires direct contact with the leaf/stomata, and is mainly observed for high concentrations of E. coli.
The Role of NOTCH Pathway Genes in the Inherited Susceptibility to Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Irtyuga Olga , Skitchenko Rostislav , Babakekhyan Mary , Usoltsev Dmitrii , Tarnovskaya Svetlana , Malashicheva Anna , Fomicheva Yulya , Rotar Oksana , Moiseeva Olga , Shadrina Ulyana , Artomov Mykyta , Kostareva Anna , Shlyakhto Evgeny
Published: July 2024

The NOTCH-signaling pathway is responsible for intercellular interactions and cell fate commitment. Recently, NOTCH pathway genes were demonstrated to play an important role in aortic valve development, leading to an increased calcified aortic valve disease (CAVD) later in life. Here, we further investigate the association between genetic variants in the NOTCH pathway genes and aortic stenosis in a case–control study of 90 CAVD cases and 4723 controls using target panel sequencing of full-length 20 genes from a NOTCH-related pathway (DVL2, DTX2, MFNG, NUMBL, LFNG, DVL1, DTX4, APH1A, DTX1, APH1B, NOTCH1, ADAM17, DVL3, NCSTN, DTX3L, ILK, RFNG, DTX3, NOTCH4, PSENEN). We identified a common intronic variant in NOTCH1, protecting against CAVD development (rs3812603), as well as several rare and unique new variants in NOTCH-pathway genes (DTX4, NOTCH1, DTX1, DVL2, NOTCH1, DTX3L, DVL3), with a prominent effect of the protein structure and function.
Customized Vestibular Rehabilitation for Vestibular Schwannoma Excision via Translabyrinthine Approach: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Fancello Virginia , Rebecchi Elisabetta , Giannuzzi Anna Lisa , Fancello Giuseppe , Faroldi Simone , Rosani Luca , Sanna Mario
Published: July 2024

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of intensive customized vestibular rehabilitation after vestibular schwannoma (VS) excision. Methods: 52 patients who underwent VS removal via a translabyrinthine approach from 2020 to 2022 were involved in this study. Bedside examination, video head impulse test (vHIT), functional head impulse test (fHIT), and the dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) were performed before and after the rehabilitation, which consisted of 10 sessions of specifically designed vestibular, visual, and physical integrated training. Results: After rehabilitation, the vHIT showed overall unchanged values on the affected and healthy side. In contrast, the scores of fHIT, which explores the higher connection of the vestibular system with visual and cerebellar pathways, improved on both the pathological and healthy sides after training (p-value 0.004 and 0.000, respectively). The effectiveness of the rehabilitation was reinforced by the DHI scores, which were considerably lower after training. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore fHIT outcomes after removal of VS, estimating the impact of rehabilitation on the overall compensation process. The outcomes support the role of extensive postsurgical rehabilitation in the compensatory process, even just a few days after surgery.
Morpho-Functional Analyses Demonstrate That Tyrosol Rescues Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy
Authors: Salucci Sara , Burattini Sabrina , Versari Ilaria , Bavelloni Alberto , Bavelloni Francesco , Curzi Davide , Battistelli Michela , Gobbi Pietro , Faenza Irene
Published: July 2024

Prolonged exposure to high dosages of dexamethasone, which is a synthetic glucocorticoid and a well-known anti-inflammatory drug, may lead to an increase in reactive oxygen species production, contributing to muscle wasting. The prevention of muscle atrophy by ingestion of functional foods is an attractive issue. In the last decade, natural antioxidant compounds have been increasingly investigated as promising molecules able to counteract oxidative-stress-induced muscle atrophy. Recently, we have demonstrated the antioxidant properties of two main olive oil polyphenols also known for their anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities in different cell models. Here, the preventive effect of tyrosol on dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy has been investigated by means of morpho-functional approaches in C2C12 myotubes. Dexamethasone-treated cells showed a reduced fiber size when compared to control ones. While long and confluent myotubes could be observed in control samples, those exposed to dexamethasone appeared as immature syncytia. Dysfunctional mitochondria and the accumulation of autophagic vacuoles contributed to myotube degeneration and death. Tyrosol administration before glucocorticoid treatment prevented muscle wasting and rescued mitochondrial and lysosomal functionality. These findings demonstrate that tyrosol attenuates dexamethasone-induced myotube damage, and encourage the use of this natural molecule in preclinical and clinical studies and in synergy with other functional foods or physical activity with the aim to prevent muscle atrophy.
Reducing Manual Annotation Costs for Cell Segmentation by Upgrading Low-Quality Annotations
Authors: Vădineanu Serban , Pelt Daniël M. , Dzyubachyk Oleh , Batenburg Kees Joost
Published: July 2024

Deep-learning algorithms for cell segmentation typically require large data sets with high-quality annotations to be trained with. However, the annotation cost for obtaining such sets may prove to be prohibitively expensive. Our work aims to reduce the time necessary to create high-quality annotations of cell images by using a relatively small well-annotated data set for training a convolutional neural network to upgrade lower-quality annotations, produced at lower annotation costs. We investigate the performance of our solution when upgrading the annotation quality for labels affected by three types of annotation error: omission, inclusion, and bias. We observe that our method can upgrade annotations affected by high error levels from 0.3 to 0.9 Dice similarity with the ground-truth annotations. We also show that a relatively small well-annotated set enlarged with samples with upgraded annotations can be used to train better-performing cell segmentation networks compared to training only on the well-annotated set. Moreover, we present a use case where our solution can be successfully employed to increase the quality of the predictions of a segmentation network trained on just 10 annotated samples.
Distributed Estimator-Based Containment Control for Multi-AUV Systems Subject to Input Saturation and Unknown Disturbance
Authors: Yin Liangang , Yan Zheping , Xu Jian
Published: July 2024

This article addresses the containment control issue for multi-AUV systems with the intervention of both external disturbance and input saturation. Firstly, a distributed estimator is established for the sake of acquiring precise estimation information of the desired position and its derivative for each follower AUV in the system. Next, on the basis of the proposed distributed estimator, a virtual control law is designed for each follower AUV. Then, due to the difficulty in obtaining accurate information about the derivative of the virtual control law, a linear tracking differentiator is introduced. Additionally, a disturbance observer is employed to tackle the composite disturbance, which mainly contains the internal model uncertainties and external bounded disturbances. Meanwhile, the issue of input saturation is handled by constructing the auxiliary system. Furthermore, a containment control law is designed with the assistance of the introduced linear tracking differentiator, the established disturbance observer, and the constructed auxiliary system. Additionally, the Lyapunov stability theory is applied to analyze the stability of the multi-AUV system. Finally, simulation results are given to confirm the feasibility of the proposed containment control scheme.
Study on the Biological Characteristics of Dark Septate Endophytes under Drought and Cadmium Stress and Their Effects on Regulating the Stress Resistance of Astragalus membranaceus
Authors: Wang Duo , Xie Yali , Zhang Wanyi , Yao Li , He Chao , He Xueli
Published: July 2024

Astragalus membranaceus is a famous traditional medicinal plant. However, drought and cadmium (Cd) pollution are the main abiotic stress factors that affect plant growth and yield and the ability to improve the host’s stress resistance through the use of beneficial endophytic fungi. To evaluate the tolerance of dark septate endophytes (DSE) to various abiotic stresses, 10 DSE strains [Microsphaeropsis cytisi (Mc), Alternaria alstroemeriae (Aa), Stagonosporopsis lupini (Sl), Neocamarosporium phragmitis (Np), Paraphoma chlamydocopiosa (Pc), Macrophomina phaseolina (Mp’), Papulaspora equi (Pe), Alternaria tellustris (At), Macrophomina pseudophaseolina (Mp), and Paraphoma radicina (Pr)] were investigated under different drought and Cd stressors in vitro by using solid-plate cultures and liquid-shaker cultures in the current study. The experiments involved using varying concentrations of PEG (0, 9, 18, and 27%) and Cd2+ (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L) to simulate different stress conditions on DSE. Additionally, the effect of DSE (Np and At) on the growth of A. membranaceus at different field water capacities (70% and 40%) and at different CdCl2 concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 15 mg Cd/kg) in soil was studied. The results demonstrated that the colony growth rates of Aa, Np, Pc, Mp’, and Mp were the first to reach the maximum diameter at a PEG concentration of 18%. Aa, Np, and At remained growth-active at 100 mg Cd/L. In addition, Aa, Np, and At were selected for drought and Cd stress tests. The results of the drought-combined-with-Cd-stress solid culture indicated that the growth rate of Np was significantly superior to that of the other strains. In the liquid culture condition, the biomasses of Np and Aa were the highest, with biomasses of 1.39 g and 1.23 g under the concentration of 18% + 25 mg Cd/L, and At had the highest biomass of 1.71 g at 18% + 50 mg Cd/L concentration, respectively. The CAT and POD activities of Np reached their peak levels at concentrations of 27% + 50 mg Cd/L and 27% + 25 mg Cd/L, respectively. Compared to the control, these levels indicated increases of 416.97% and 573.12%, respectively. Aa, Np, and At positively influenced SOD activity. The glutathione (GSH) contents of Aa, Np, and At were increased under different combined stressors of drought and Cd. The structural-equation-modeling (SEM) analysis revealed that Aa positively influenced biomass and negatively affected Cd content, while Np and At positively influenced Cd content. Under the stress of 40% field-water capacity and the synergistic stress of 40% field-water capacity and 5 mg Cd/kg soil, Np and At significantly increased root weight of A. membranaceus. This study provides guidance for the establishment of agricultural planting systems and has good development and utilization value.
The C2H2 Transcription Factor Con7 Regulates Vegetative Growth, Cell Wall Integrity, Oxidative Stress, Asexual Sporulation, Appressorium and Hyphopodium Formation, and Pathogenicity in Colletotrichum graminicola and Colletotrichum siamense
Authors: Zhou Shuangzhen , Liu Shayu , Guo Chenchen , Wei Hanwen , He Zhihui , Liu Zhiqiang , Li Xiaoyu
Published: July 2024

The Colletotrichum genus is listed as one of the top 10 important plant pathogens, causing significant economic losses worldwide. The C2H2 zinc finger protein serves as a crucial transcription factor regulating growth and development in fungi. In this study, we identified two C2H2 transcription factors, CgrCon7 and CsCon7, in Colletotrichum graminicola and Colletotrichum siamense, as the orthologs of Con7p in Magnaporthe oryzae. Both CgrCon7 and CsCon7 have a typical C2H2 zinc finger domain and exhibit visible nuclear localization. Disrupting Cgrcon7 or Cscon7 led to a decreased growth rate, changes in cell wall integrity, and low tolerance to H2O2. Moreover, the deletion of Cgrcon7 or Cscon7 dramatically decreased conidial production, and their knockout mutants also lost the ability to produce appressoria and hyphopodia. Pathogenicity assays displayed that deleting Cgrcon7 or Cscon7 resulted in a complete loss of virulence. Transcriptome analysis showed that CgrCon7 and CsCon7 were involved in regulating many genes related to ROS detoxification, chitin synthesis, and cell wall degradation, etc. In conclusion, CgrCon7 and CsCon7 act as master transcription factors coordinating vegetative growth, oxidative stress response, cell wall integrity, asexual sporulation, appressorium formation, and pathogenicity in C. graminicola and C. siamense.
The Impact of the Cryptocurrency Market on Islamic vs. Conventional Stock Returns: Evidence from Gulf Cooperation Council Countries
Authors: Mansour Nomran Naji , Laallam Abdelkader , Haron Razali , Kashi Aghilasse , Hossen Shaikh Zakir , Abey Joji
Published: July 2024

The rapid rise and widespread global adoption of cryptocurrencies in recent years has fundamentally transformed the international financial landscape, with digital assets increasingly being recognized for their potential to influence the stability and performance of traditional capital markets. Against this backdrop, this study aims to empirically investigate the impact of cryptocurrency returns on Islamic vs. conventional stock returns in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The salient distinctions between Islamic and conventional stock markets include fundamental differences in principles, investment allocations, and risk profiles, underscoring the importance of examining the impact of cryptocurrency returns on these distinct equity segments. Daily data were collected from stock indices in five GCC countries over the period 2016–2019, including two sub-periods: before and after the 2017 crypto crash. Pooled OLS, fixed effects, random effects, and generalized linear models (GLMs) were used to analyze the data collected during the study. With the GCC increasingly focusing on cryptocurrency markets, there is growing concern about these markets’ potential impact on regional stocks. This study addresses the important questions of whether the impacts of the cryptocurrency market on Islamic vs. conventional stock markets differ throughout the GCC region and how these impacts have evolved since the crypto crash period. The findings reveal that cryptocurrency returns had a negative impact on both GCC Islamic and conventional stock market returns for the full sample period (2016–2019), and the negative effect was far more pronounced for conventional stocks. For the two sub-periods before and after the crash, only the cryptocurrency market and conventional GCC stocks remained negatively correlated, while the cryptocurrency market and the GCC Islamic stock markets became uncorrelated. Thus, for the calmer sub-periods before and after the crypto crash, the rise in cryptocurrency returns may have enticed GCC investors away from conventional stocks, perhaps resulting in a decline in their investment in these stocks. Meanwhile, those who invest in Islamic stocks may not be exposed to this temptation.
Productivity and Keynes’s 15-Hour Work Week Prediction for 2030: An Alternative, Macroeconomic Analysis for the United States
Authors: Beretta Edoardo , Bariviera Aurelio F. , Desogus Marco , Naguib Costanza , Rossi Sergio
Published: July 2024

This paper analyses Keynes’s 1930 prediction that technical advances would cut people’s working week to 15 h by 2030 and investigates why actual working hours are significantly higher in the United States. Elaborating on Keynes’s forecast to provide a general productivity formula while keeping its simplicity, we ran tests on macro-data from 1929 to 2019 and on estimates for 2030, demonstrating that productivity is surprisingly still insufficient to allow for a reduction in working hours across the US economy. This finding represents a substantial contribution to the literature, which has mostly explained long working hours by means of new consumer needs. Even by using microdata, we show that consumption does not explain the stickiness of working hours to the bottom. Hence, this paper combines a macroeconomic, logical-analytical approach based on historical time series with rigorously constructed time series at the microeconomic level. Finally, we also provide policies to narrow the productivity differential to Keynes’s prediction for 2030 while fostering work-life balance and sustainable growth. To understand long working hours in the US despite technical advances—this being one of our main findings—productivity remains crucial.
Rural Settlement Optimization for Ecologically Sensitive Area Evaluations Based on Geo-Proximity and the Soil–Water Conservation Capacity
Authors: Lou Ruiyi , Wang Dongyan
Published: July 2024

Rural communities in ecologically sensitive areas are confronted with environmental challenges and land waste. The hollowing out of villages because of the steady loss of young people has brought these problems to the fore. Research on the remediation of rural settlements in ecologically sensitive regions is scarce. This paper focuses on Tong Yu County, a region located in the agricultural and pastoral intertwined zones of western Jilin, which is known for its ecological sensitivity. On the basis of the results of the geographical assessment of the area via hierarchical analysis (AHP method) and soil and water conservation capacity evaluation via the revised universal soil loss equation model (RUSLE) and the net primary production quantitative index model (NPP model), we propose a rural development program that divides the study area into three different zones with different development orientations, namely, potential enhancement, agglomeration development, and expansion restrictions. Moreover, we conceived a rural settlement remediation scheme using the kernel density estimation method and provided remediation strategies for rural settlements of various density levels. The rural settlement development program and the rural settlement remediation scheme led to the optimization of rural settlements. Notably, with increasing kernel density, the area of rural settlements tends to increase and then decrease. Our research helps save 5.059 km2 of land resources in the study area and offers guidance for improving the rural settlement layout in Tong Yu County.
Spatiotemporal Changes and Simulation Prediction of Ecological Security Pattern on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Liu Longqing , Zhang Shidong , Liu Wenshu , Qu Hongjiao , Guo Luo
Published: July 2024

Over the past two decades, due to the combined effects of natural and human factors, the ecological environment and resources of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) have faced serious threats, profoundly impacting its ecosystem and the lives of its residents. Therefore, the establishment of the ecological security pattern (ESP) is crucial to cope with climate change, maintain ecosystem function, and sustainable development. Based on the Pressure–State–Response (PSR) model, this study constructed an evaluation index system for the ecological security (ES) of the QTP, evaluated the ES of the QTP during 2000–2020, and predicted the ES of the QTP during 2025–2035 based on the deep learning model. Combined with the residents’ perception of ES, the ES of the QTP was evaluated comprehensively. The results showed that: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the ES value of the QTP continued to rise, the number of dangerous and sensitive counties decreased, and the number of other counties increased. The overall spatial distribution features higher values in the southeast and lower values in the northwest and central regions. (2) From 2000 to 2020, both hot spots and cold spots on the QTP decreased, with the hot spots mainly concentrated in the southeast of the QTP, represented by Yunnan Province, and the cold spots shifting from west to east, mainly concentrated in the central QTP, represented by Qinghai Province. (3) The Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model demonstrates high prediction accuracy. Based on the prediction of LSTM, the ES value of the QTP will continue to rise from 2025 to 2035, and the number of safe counties will reach the highest level in history. The spatial distribution is still higher in the southeast and lower in the northwest and central regions. (4) By analyzing residents’ perception of 25 potential factors that may affect the ES of the QTP, the results show that residents generally believe that these factors have an important impact on ES, and their evaluation is between “important” and “very important”. In addition, there is a significant correlation between these factors and the predicted values of ES. The results of the study will help to improve our understanding of the overall ecological environment of the QTP, provide accurate positioning and reasonable help for the government to formulate relevant protection strategies, and lay a methodological and practical foundation for the sustainable development of the QTP.
Made in Languaging; Ecolinguistic Expertise
Authors: Cowley Stephen J.
Published: July 2024

Made in languaging aims to help ecolinguists with recrafting ideation and human practices. Inspired by Alexander and Stibbe, I turn to how ecolinguistic expertise can favour life-sustaining relations. In approaching normative goals, I start with how knowledge is made, self-sustains and is disseminated. Ecolinguistic analysis of languages, discourse and narratives can thus be enriched by tracing how practices inform languaging. In turning to epistemic agency, I emphasise the following: (1) building corpora popularia, organised bodies, in order to enhance life-sustaining relations; (2) illuminating life from the inside; and (3) developing bioecological awareness. I contend that, while all living beings use coordinative activities to bring forth what appears to us, humans also use wording types and practices. As we use the already known, languaging enables subjecthood, a person’s little worlds, and a group’s common realities. Hence, what appears as (and to) experience is made in languaging. When linked to normative concerns, the resulting middle worlds also offer means of putting knowledge to work. As in social epistemology, one might regard ‘wealth and well-being’ as a marker of public good. Yet, critical work shows, appeal to these values is anthropomorphic. In order to encompass nonhumans and the biogenic, one can reject market orientatation by tracing languaging, and knowing, back to living. In showing benefits of so doing, I contrast two evolving wording types. The case of growthism, I suggest, attests to praxis and contrasts starkly with the ideational value of life-sustaining relations. Yet, in both cases, languaging meshes practices, happenings and the effects of action. The move shows how one can challenge the hypostatisation of ideology by pursuing how epistemic agency can contribute to the future of evolution.
Design of Mixing Device Shafts Based on a Proposed Calculation Method Supported by Finite Element Method Analysis
Authors: Bibire Luminita , Chitimus Alexandra-Dana , Ciubotariu Vlad
Published: July 2024

The elasticity of bearings as well as their clearance have an essential influence on the total arrow and, therefore, on their own pulsation. In most of the literature, this elasticity is neglected in the calculation of shaft deflections. In some work, the elasticity of the bearings has been taken into account when calculating the deflection of the mixing device shaft, but this has been carried out on the basis of a high degree of customization: the behavior of the bearings has been considered linearly elastic, which does not correspond to reality because according to the elastic response of the bearing, it is a nonlinear function of the radial displacement. When the shaft of a mixing device operates in a pressure vessel, at the outlet of the pressure vessel, the shaft is provided with a sealing device, which can be considered a third bearing. This aspect is also not taken into account in the calculation of the shaft’s deflection, which leads to a certain degree of error in its determination. This study aims to highlight the influence of the elasticity of the bearings and the sealing device on the stiffness of the shaft and to propose a method that supports a calculation program for calculating the elastic line of a vertical cantilever shaft, considering the role played by the bearings in the case that they behave nonlinearly and the sealing device as the third bearing. This problem was solved both by applying our own method and with the help of the FEM.
MT-SIPP: An Efficient Collision-Free Multi-Chain Robot Path Planning Algorithm
Authors: Miao Jinchao , Li Ping , Chen Chuangye , Tian Jiya , Yang Liwei
Published: July 2024

Compared to traditional multi-robot path planning problems, multi-chain robot path planning (MCRPP) is more challenging because it must account for collisions between robot units and between the bodies of a chain and the leading unit during towing. To address MCRPP more efficiently, we propose a novel algorithm called Multi-Train Safe Interval Path Planning (MT-SIPP). Based on safe interval path planning principles, we categorize conflicts in the multi-train planning process into three types: travel conflicts, waiting conflicts, and station conflicts. To handle travel conflicts, we use an improved k-robust method to ensure trains avoid collisions with other trains during movement. To resolve waiting conflicts, we apply a time correction method to ensure the safety of positions occupied by trains during waiting periods. To address station conflicts, we introduce node constraints to prevent other trains from occupying the station positions of trains that have reached their target stations and are stopped. Experimental results on three benchmark maps show that the MT-SIPP algorithm achieves about a 30% improvement in solution success rate and nearly a 50% increase in the maximum number of solvable instances compared to existing methods. These results confirm the effectiveness of MT-SIPP in addressing the challenges of MCRPP.
Bounding the Price of Anarchy of Weighted Shortest Processing Time Policy on Uniform Parallel Machines
Authors: Muñoz Felipe T. , Linfati Rodrigo
Published: July 2024

This article investigates the performance of the Weighted Shortest Processing Time (WSPT) rule as a local sequencing policy in a scheduling game for uniformly related parallel machines, where the social objective is the total weighted completion time. Our research aims to establish improved upper bounds for the price of anarchy in this game. We determine two bounds, incorporating parameters that characterize the instance family, such as the speed of the fastest machine (sm) and the number of machines (m). One bound establishes a fixed upper bound for the price of anarchy, while the other outperforms the parametric upper bound found in the existing literature. These newly derived bounds provide better insights into the performance of the scheduling game under study, proving that the price of anarchy is upper bounded by minsm1+1/2sm−1/2m,m,4.
Design and Analysis of a Novel Fractional-Order System with Hidden Dynamics, Hyperchaotic Behavior and Multi-Scroll Attractors
Authors: Yu Fei , Xu Shuai , Lin Yue , He Ting , Wu Chaoran , Lin Hairong
Published: July 2024

The design of chaotic systems with complex dynamic behaviors has always been a key aspect of chaos theory in engineering applications. This study introduces a novel fractional-order system characterized by hidden dynamics, hyperchaotic behavior, and multi-scroll attractors. By employing fractional calculus, the system’s order is extended beyond integer values, providing a richer dynamic behavior. The system’s hidden dynamics are revealed through detailed numerical simulations and theoretical analysis, demonstrating complex attractors and bifurcations. The hyperchaotic nature of the system is verified through Lyapunov exponents and phase portraits, showing multiple positive exponents that indicate a higher degree of unpredictability and complexity. Additionally, the system’s multi-scroll attractors are analyzed, showcasing their potential for secure communication and encryption applications. The fractional-order approach enhances the system’s flexibility and adaptability, making it suitable for a wide range of practical uses, including secure data transmission, image encryption, and complex signal processing. Finally, based on the proposed fractional-order system, we designed a simple and efficient medical image encryption scheme and analyzed its security performance. Experimental results validate the theoretical findings, confirming the system’s robustness and effectiveness in generating complex chaotic behaviors.
An Iterative Procurement Combinatorial Auction Mechanism for the Multi-Item, Multi-Sourcing Supplier-Selection and Order-Allocation Problem under a Flexible Bidding Language and Price-Sensitive Demand
Authors: Abbaas Omar , Ventura Jose A.
Published: July 2024

This study addresses the multi-item, multi-sourcing supplier-selection and order-allocation problem. We propose an iterative procurement combinatorial auction mechanism that aims to reveal the suppliers’ minimum acceptable selling prices and assign orders optimally. Suppliers use a flexible bidding language to submit procurement bids. The buyer solves a Mixed Integer Non-linear Programming (MINLP) model to determine the winning bids for the current auction iteration. We introduce a buyer’s profit-improvement factor that constrains the suppliers to reduce their selling prices in subsequent bids. Moreover, this factor enables the buyer to strike a balance between computational effort and optimality gap. We develop a separate MINLP model for updating the suppliers’ bids while satisfying the buyer’s profit-improvement constraint. If none of the suppliers can find a feasible solution, the buyer reduces the profit-improvement factor until a pre-determined threshold is reached. A randomly generated numerical example is used to illustrate the proposed mechanism. In this example, the buyer’s profit improved by as much as 118% compared to a single-round auction. The experimental results show that the proposed mechanism is most effective in competitive environments with several suppliers and comparable costs. These results reinforce the importance of fostering competition and diversification in a supply chain.
Design of Adaptive Finite-Time Backstepping Control for Shield Tunneling Systems with Constraints
Authors: Hong Kairong , Yuan Lulu , Zhu Xunlin , Li Fengyuan
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on the finite-time tracking control problem of shield tunneling systems in the presence of constraints on the states and control input. By modeling the system based on the LuGre friction model, an effective method of tracking control in finite time is designed to overcome these actual constraints at the same time. First, the constraint on the system state is transformed into a symmetric constraint on the tracking error, and the constraint on control input is handled by designing an auxiliary differential equation. Then, radial basis function (RBF) neural networks are introduced to approximate the uncertainties. Next, using an adaptive finite-time backstepping method and choosing a logarithmic barrier Lyapunov function (BLF), a finite-time controller is designed to realize the finite-time stability of the closed-loop system. Finally, a simulation example is given to verify the correctness and validity of the theoretical results.
Predicting Pump Inspection Cycles for Oil Wells Based on Stacking Ensemble Models
Authors: Xin Hua , Zhang Shiqi , Lio Yuhlong , Tsai Tzong-Ru
Published: July 2024

Beam pumping is currently the broadly used method for oil extraction worldwide. A pumpjack shutdown can be incurred by failures from the load, corrosion, work intensity, and downhole working environment. In this study, the duration of uninterrupted pumpjack operation is defined as the pump inspection cycle. Accurate prediction of the pump inspection cycle can extend the lifespan, reduce unexpected pump accidents, and significantly enhance the production efficiency of the pumpjack. To enhance the prediction performance, this study proposes an improved two-layer stacking ensemble model, which combines the power of the random forests, light gradient boosting machine, support vector regression, and Adaptive Boosting approaches, for predicting the pump inspection cycle. A big pump-related oilfield data set is used to demonstrate the proposed two-layer stacking ensemble model can significantly enhance the prediction quality of the pump inspection cycle.
Extremely Rare Case of Successful Treatment of Foot Ulcer Associated with Evans’ Syndrome and Buerger’s Disease
Authors: Nam Ha-Jong , Kim Se-Young , Byeon Je-Yeon , Choi Hwan-Jun
Published: July 2024

Evans Syndrome (ES) is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). Thrombotic complications in ES patients are uncommon, particularly involving Buerger’s Disease (BD). We report a case of a 49-year-old male with ES and a history of diabetes and heavy smoking, presenting with a necrotic wound on his right great toe. Diagnostic evaluations revealed severe stenosis and thrombosis in the lower limb arteries, diagnosed as BD. The patient underwent successful popliteal–tibioperoneal artery bypass surgery and the subsequent disarticulation and revision of the distal phalanx, followed by the application of an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to promote healing. Post-surgery, the patient showed significant improvement in blood flow and complete epithelialization without complications. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to managing complex wounds in ES patients, suggesting potential treatment pathways for future cases involving BD.
The Efficiency of Rehabilitation Therapy in Patients Diagnosed with Neurogenic Bladder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Manaila Adina Ionelia , Roman Nadinne Alexandra , Baseanu Ionut Cristian Cozmin , Minzatanu Diana , Tuchel Vlad Ionut , Basalic Elena Bianca , Miclaus Roxana Steliana
Published: July 2024

Considerable research efforts have been directed towards investigating neurogenic bladder dysfunction over the preceding decade. This condition stands as the most prevalent and incapacitating pelvic floor disorder amidst patients afflicted with specific upper motor neuron syndromes, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, and spinal cord injury. The current study aims to bring up-to-date findings on rehabilitation methods for treating neurogenic bladder. The Web of Science database (MEDLINE, PsychINFO, EMBASE, CENTRAL, ISRCTN, and ICTRP) was screened for randomized controlled studies and clinical studies using combinations of keywords including “neurogenic bladder”, “stroke”, “multiple sclerosis”, and “spinal cord injury”. The PEDro scale was used to assess the quality of the articles included in this study. After a thorough examination, eleven articles met the criteria for inclusion in our research. The outcome measures showed a variety of forms of electrostimulation that can be combined with or without PFMT. These interventions significantly enhance health-related quality of life, as evidenced by various assessment methods. The physical approach constitutes an effective therapeutic method that can reduce the severity of urinary incontinence.
Long-Term Outcomes and a Radiological Assessment of Hydroxyapatite–Tricalcium Phosphate-Coated Total Hip Arthroplasty (Trilogy/Zimmer): A Long-Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: Ibuchi Shinya , Imai Norio , Horigome Yoji , Hirano Yuki , Kimura Keishi , Kawashima Hiroyuki
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Favorable short- and mid-term results for hydroxyapatite (HA)–tricalcium phosphate (TCP)-coated total hip arthroplasty (THA) (Trilogy/Zimmer) have been reported in the literature; however, the long-term results beyond 15 years have not been documented. Therefore, this study evaluated the long-term postoperative results, radiological bone changes, and implant fixation of the acetabular component of HA-TCP-coated THA. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of 212 patients who underwent primary HA-TCP-coated THA (Trilogy/Zimmer) at our institution between 1 October 2002, and 31 March 2008; 166 who were available for follow-up at least 15 years postoperatively were included (capture rate: 78.3%). All implants were Trilogy/Zimmer. We investigated the survival rate, with aseptic loosening as the endpoint. Clinical evaluations included the presence of dislocation and a modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) preoperatively and at the final observation. Results: The mean age at surgery and at the follow-up period were 57.7 ± 9.6 and 17.1 ± 1.5 years, respectively. The survival rate was 99.4% (165/166), with aseptic loosening as the endpoint. Dislocation was observed in 4/166 (2.4%) patients. The mHHS improved significantly from 46.1 points preoperatively to 82.2 points during the last survey (p < 0.05). The results revealed that fixation was favorable in all cases except for one case of aseptic loosening. The Trilogy implant coated with HA-TCP was highly effective in bone induction, and bone ingrowth was considered to have occurred without failure, further indicating its usefulness. The long-term results of cementless THA using an HA-TCP coating (Trilogy/Zimmer), with a mean follow-up period of 17.1 years, revealed a commendable survival rate of 99.4%, considering aseptic loosening as the endpoint. Conclusions: HA-TCP-coated THA (Trilogy/Zimmer) had good long-term results. However, further long-term observation is required in patients who have undergone this surgery, and the stem side should be evaluated and investigated, including comorbidities.
Biomechanical Behavior of Injected Cement Spacers versus Traditional Cages in Low-Density Lumbar Spine under Compression Loading
Authors: Csakany Tibor , Varga Peter , Gueorguiev Boyko , Lakatos Eva , Kurutz Marta
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Osteoporosis renders the use of traditional interbody cages potentially dangerous given the high risk of damage in the bone–implant interface. Instead, injected cement spacers can be applied as interbody devices; however, this technique has been mainly used in cervical spine surgery. This study aimed at investigating the biomechanical behavior of cement spacers versus traditional cages in lumbar spine surgery. Materials and Methods: Destructive monotonic axial compression testing was performed on 20 human cadaveric low-density lumbar segments from elderly donors (14 f/6 m, 70.3 ± 12.0 y) treated with either injected cement spacers (n = 10) or traditional cages (n = 10) without posterior instrumentation. Stiffness, failure load and displacement were compared. The effects of bone density, vertebral geometry and spacer contact area were evaluated. Results: Cement spacers demonstrated higher stiffness, significantly smaller displacement (p < 0.001) and a similar failure load compared to traditional cages. In the cage group, stiffness and failure load depended strongly on bone density and vertebral height, whereas failure displacement depended on vertebral anterior height. No such correlations were identified with cement spacers. Conclusions: Cement spacers used in lumbar interbody stabilization provided similar compression strength, significantly smaller failure displacement and a stiffer construct than traditional cages that provided benefits mainly for large and strong vertebrae. Cement stabilization was less sensitive to density and could be more beneficial also for segments with smaller and less dense vertebrae. In contrast to the injection of cement spacers, the optimal insertion of cages into the irregular intervertebral space is challenging and risks damaging bone. Further studies are required to corroborate these findings and the treatment selection thresholds.
Anti-TNF Alpha and Risk of Lymphoma in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Imam Ahmad A.
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) agents are effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) but may entail a risk of lymphoma due to TNF-α’s role in immune surveillance. This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the risk of lymphoma in patients with RA treated with anti-TNF agents versus patients treated with methotrexate and/or a placebo. Materials and Methods: The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, PubMed, and Google Scholar were systematically searched for relevant literature. Data were extracted and analyzed to determine risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), with heterogeneity assessed using I2 statistics. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for observational studies. Results: The search yielded 932 articles, 13 of which were retained for qualitative review and 12 for quantitative synthesis. Overall, the studies reviewed included 181,735 participants: 3772 from six RCTs and 177,963 from seven observational studies. The meta-analysis of RCTs revealed no significant difference in the risk of lymphoma between patients receiving anti-TNF-α therapy and patients on conventional treatments, with an overall RR of 1.43 (95% CI: 0.32–5.16) and I2 of 0%. Conversely, observational studies showed some variability, with an overall RR of 1.43 (95% CI: 0.59–3.47) and significant heterogeneity (I2 = 95%), whereas others indicated a potentially elevated risk of lymphoma in specific subgroups but had inconsistent results. Conclusions: The systematic and meta-analysis revealed no significant difference in the risk of lymphoma for patients with RA treated with anti-TNF-α agents versus conventional therapies. However, given the limitations of the studies included, additional research is needed to validate the results and explore potential risk factors contributing to the development of lymphoma in patients with RA.