bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DMCNet-Pro: A Model-Driven Multi-Pilot Convolution Neural Network for MIMO-OFDM Receivers
Authors: Li Pengyuan , Zhu Tianlin , Xin Yutong , Yuan Gang , Yu Xiong , Lu Zejian , Liu Zili , Yan Qing
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, wireless communication technology is evolving towards high data rates, a low latency, and a high throughput to meet increasingly complex business demands. Key technologies in this direction include multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM). This research is based on our previous work DMCNet. In this article, we focus on studying the deep learning (DL) application of neural networks to solve the reception of single-antenna OFDM signals. Specifically, in multi-antenna scenarios, the channel model is more complex compared to single-antenna cases. By leveraging the characteristics of DL, such as automatic learning of parameters using deep neural networks, we treat the reception process of MIMO-OFDM signals as a black box and utilize neural networks to accomplish the signal reception task. Moreover, we propose a data-driven multi-pilot convolution neural network for MIMO-OFDM receivers (DMCNet). By incorporating complex convolution and complex fully connected structures, we design a receiver network to recover the transmitted signals from the received signals. We validate the accuracy and robustness of DMCNet under different channel conditions, comparing the bit error rates with different schemes. Additionally, we discuss the factors influencing various channel effects. At the same time, we also propose a model-driven scheme, DMCNet-pro, which has a higher accuracy and fewer parameters in some scenarios. The experimental results demonstrate that the DL-based reception scheme exhibits promising feasibility in terms of accuracy and interference resistance when compared to traditional approaches.
A Fast Phase-Only Beamforming Algorithm for FDA-MIMO Radar via Kronecker Decomposition
Authors: Chen  Geng , Wang  Chunyang , Gong  Jian , Tan  Ming
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a fast phase-only beamforming algorithm for frequency diverse array multiple-input multiple-output radar systems. Specifically, we use the Kronecker decomposition to decompose the desired phase-only weight vector into phase-only transmit and receive weight vectors and to decompose the target steering vector into transmit and receive steering vectors. By using the properties of the Kronecker product, the transmit and receive steering vectors and the transmit and receive weight vectors with the Vandermonde structure are decomposed into Kronecker factors with uni-modulus vectors, respectively. On this basis, in order to maintain the mainlobe gain and form a deep null at the desired position, the Kronecker factors are divided into two parts.The first component, referred to as the interference suppression factors, is responsible for creating deep nulls. The second component, known as the signal enhancement factor, maintains the mainlobe gain. We provide an analytical solution with low complexity for the Kronecker factors. This strategy can obtain the phase-only weights while effectively forming a deep null at the desired position. Numerical experiments are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
PatchRLNet: A Framework Combining a Vision Transformer and Reinforcement Learning for The Separation of a PTFE Emulsion and Paraffin
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Wu Lei , Hu Bingyu , Yang Xinduoji , Fan Xianghui , Liu Meng , Cheng Kai , Wang Song , Miao Jianqiang , Gong Haigang
Published: January 2024

During the production of a PolyTetraFluoroEthylene(PTFE) emulsion, it is crucial to detect the separation between the PTFE emulsion and liquid paraffin in order to purify the PTFE emulsion and facilitate subsequent polymerization. However, the current practice heavily relies on visual inspections conducted by on-site personnel, resulting in not only low efficiency and accuracy, but also posing potential threats to personnel safety. The incorporation of artificial intelligence for the automated detection of paraffin separation holds the promise of significantly improving detection accuracy and mitigating potential risks to personnel. Thus, we propose an automated detection framework named PatchRLNet, which leverages a combination of a vision transformer and reinforcement learning. Reinforcement learning is integrated into the embedding layer of the vision transformer in PatchRLNet, providing attention scores for each patch. This strategic integration compels the model to allocate greater attention to the essential features of the target, effectively filtering out ambient environmental factors and background noise. Building upon this foundation, we introduce a multimodal integration mechanism to further enhance the prediction accuracy of the model. To validate the efficacy of our proposed framework, we conducted performance testing using authentic data from China’s largest PTFE material production base. The results are compelling, demonstrating that the framework achieved an impressive accuracy rate of over 99% on the test set. This underscores its significant practical application value. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first instance of automated detection applied to the separation of the PTFE emulsion and paraffin.
From White to Black-Box Models: A Review of Simulation Tools for Building Energy Management and Their Application in Consulting Practices
Authors: Shahcheraghian Amir , Madani Hatef , Ilinca Adrian
Published: January 2024

Buildings consume significant energy worldwide and account for a substantial proportion of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, building energy management has become critical with the increasing demand for sustainable buildings and energy-efficient systems. Simulation tools have become crucial in assessing the effectiveness of buildings and their energy systems, and they are widely used in building energy management. These simulation tools can be categorized into white-box and black-box models based on the level of detail and transparency of the model’s inputs and outputs. This review publication comprehensively analyzes the white-box, black-box, and web tool models for building energy simulation tools. We also examine the different simulation scales, ranging from single-family homes to districts and cities, and the various modelling approaches, such as steady-state, quasi-steady-state, and dynamic. This review aims to pinpoint the advantages and drawbacks of various simulation tools, offering guidance for upcoming research in the field of building energy management. We aim to help researchers, building designers, and engineers better understand the available simulation tools and make informed decisions when selecting and using them.
Fuzzy Inference System Development for Turbogenerator Failure Diagnosis on Floating Production Offloading and Storage Platform
Authors: Castro Patricio F. , Lira George Rossany Soares de , Vilar Pablo Bezerra , Costa Edson G. da , Carvalho Fabricio B. S.
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces a novel approach for diagnosing failures within a turbogenerator mineral lube oil system, employing a fuzzy inference system (FIS) model. The study leverages real operational data collected from supervisory monitoring sensors across four turbogenerators over a three-year operational span, resulting in a dataset comprising 40,456,663 input parameters. The failure modes were established through expert knowledge, using the Failure Mode, Effect, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) documentation as the basis. Initially, the model’s universe variables were constructed using the sensor calibration range, and then the fuzzy membership functions were formulated based on the operational thresholds inherent to each measured parameter. The fault identification mechanism is underpinned by an inference system employing predefined rules, extrapolated from expert judgments encapsulating failure typologies specific to the turbogenerators’ mineral lube oil system, as delineated in the FMECA. The FIS model demonstrates notable efficacy in failure diagnosis with an overall performance evaluation of the system yielding satisfactory outcomes, having a 98.35% true positive rate for failure classification, coupled with a 99.99% true negative rate for accurate classification during normal system operation. These results highlight the visibility of the FIS model in diagnosing failures within the turbogenerator mineral lube oil system, thereby showcasing its potential for enhancing operational reliability and maintenance efficiency.
Energy Recovery from Residual Municipal Solid Waste: State of the Art and Perspectives within the Challenge to Climate Change
Authors: Lombardi Lidia , Castaldi Marco J.
Published: January 2024

Among the technologies for the recovery of energy from waste, in particular residual municipal solid waste (rMSW), combustion is the most widely used thermo-chemical treatment process associated with thermal and electric power production by a steam cycle, named, shortly, Waste to Energy (WtE). Today, more than 500 WtE plants in the EU, about 400 in China and 76 in the USA are in operation, based on efficient technologies and advanced air pollution control systems. Energy recovery can be accomplished also by means of gasification; however, the presence of impurities together with the atmospheric pressure, at which syngas is normally produced, impose the feeding of syngas to a conventional steam cycle, leading to generally lower performances than WtE. The energy recovered by WtE offsets traditional energy sources such as fossil fuels and related emissions, providing savings in term of climate change. However, the savings obtainable by replacing electricity and/or heat will diminish as the energy systems will hopefully become increasingly renewable. Over this medium–long-term horizon, one possibility is to capture the CO2 from WtE flue gases and to store/use it. From the life cycle assessment perspective, it has been calculated that the introduction of CO2 capture and storage in WtE, despite energy penalties, is able to reduce the impact on climate change. The alternative approach, proposed to contain the emissions of greenhouse gases in the thermal treatment of waste, is using the carbon contained in it to produce commonly used chemical compounds (waste to chemicals). The benefits, in terms of reductions of greenhouse gases, are expected from the possibility of obtaining chemicals that can replace their analogue normally produced from fossil sources. To date, only one WtC demonstration plant is operating by being fed by rMSW-derived waste, and some similar initiatives are planned, but still adequate assurances in terms of robust knowledge of the involved complex processes, above all, if applied to highly inhomogeneous feed streams such as those obtained from rMSW, are not available. Once the several initiatives come to completion, it will enable waste management professionals to assess performance and to begin to consider such a facility in their planning.
Thermal Decomposition and Kinetic Parameters of Three Biomass Feedstocks for the Performance of the Gasification Process Using a Thermogravimetric Analyzer
Authors: Almusafir Rania , Smith Joseph D.
Published: January 2024

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is a powerful technique and useful method for characterizing biomass as a non-conventional fuel. A TGA apparatus has been utilized to experimentally investigate the impact of biomass feedstock diversity on the performance of the gasification of hardwood (HW), softwood (SW) pellets, and refuse-derived fuel (RDF) materials. The solid conversion rate and the volatile species formation rate have been estimated to quantify the rates of devolatilization for each material. In addition, the combustion kinetic characteristics of the three biomass feedstocks were investigated using TGA at different heating rates, and a thermal kinetic analysis was conducted to describe the gasification process. Therefore, the kinetic parameters have been evaluated for different thermal reactions and non-isothermal kinetic models that depend on the relationships between heating rates and temperature profiles. The results show that the amount of tar content from the RDF was higher than that of pure hardwood and softwood feedstocks. Hence, tar removal must be part of any process using syngas produced from RDF feedstocks in a gas engine to produce electricity.
Metabolomics and Physiological Changes Underlying Increased Tolerance to Salt Stress Induced by Applied Nitric Oxide in Fatsia japonica Seedlings
Authors: Hu Xing , Zhang Min , Liu Jiao , Cheng Xiaomao , Huang Xiaoxia
Published: January 2024

Fatsia japonica (Thunb.) Decne. et Planch. is an important woody landscape plant, and its distribution is commonly limited by salt stress. Although the application of exogenous nitric oxide (NO) has been known to be effective in alleviating abiotic stress in plants, the underlying mechanism by which NO induces salt resistance in F. japonica remains unknown. In this study, the physiological and metabolic characteristics of F. japonica seedlings with the application of NO under salt stress conditions were investigated. We demonstrated that exogenous NO (0.1 mM sodium nitroprusside, SNP) mitigated the growth inhibition caused by 0.4% NaCl. This alleviation could be attributed to NO-induced enhancement in photosynthesis, osmotic adjustment, antioxidant enzyme activities, and a reduction in oxidative damage when exposed to salt stress. Furthermore, the metabolomic analysis revealed that salt stress significantly disrupts the growth of F. japonica by downregulating sugars, sugar alcohols, amino acids, and organic acids. However, the application of exogenous NO improves sugar metabolism, enhancing the levels of fructose, glucose, mannose, galactose, xylose, ribose, inositol, and sorbitol, as well as the metabolism of amino acids and organic acids. These findings provide new insights into the physiological and metabolic homeostasis adjustments induced by NO that promote salt stress tolerance in F. japonica, enhancing our understanding of plant resilience mechanisms.
Hyperspectral Imaging Using a Convolutional Neural Network with Transformer for the Soluble Solid Content and pH Prediction of Cherry Tomatoes
Authors: Qi Hengnian , Li Hongyang , Chen Liping , Chen Fengnong , Luo Jiahao , Zhang Chu
Published: January 2024

Cherry tomatoes are cultivated worldwide and favored by consumers of different ages. The soluble solid content (SSC) and pH are two of the most important quality attributes of cherry tomatoes. The rapid and non-destructive measurement of the SSC and pH of cherry tomatoes is of great significance to their production and consumption. In this research, hyperspectral imaging combined with a convolutional neural network with Transformer (CNN-Transformer) was utilized to analyze the SSC and pH of cherry tomatoes. Conventional machine learning and deep learning models were established for the determination of the SSC and pH. The findings demonstrated that CNN-Transformer yielded outstanding results in predicting the SSC, with the coefficient of determination of calibration (R2C), validation (R2V), and prediction (R2P) for the SSC being 0.83, 0.87, and 0.83, respectively. Relatively worse results were obtained for the pH value prediction, with R2C, R2V, and R2P values of 0.74, 0.68, and 0.60, respectively. Furthermore, the visualization of the CNN-Transformer model revealed the wavelength weight distributions, indicating that the 1380–1650 nm range served as the characteristic band for the SSC, while the spectral range at 945–1280 nm was the characteristic band for pH. In conclusion, integrating spectral information features with the attention mechanism of Transformer through a convolutional neural network can enhance the accuracy of predicting the SSC and pH for cherry tomatoes.
Mapping and Geomorphic Characterization of the Vast Cold-Water Coral Mounds of the Blake Plateau
Authors: Sowers Derek C. , Mayer Larry A. , Masetti Giuseppe , Cordes Erik , Gasbarro Ryan , Lobecker Elizabeth , Cantwell Kasey , Candio Samuel , Hoy Shannon , Malik Mashkoor , White Michael , Dornback Matthew
Published: January 2024

A coordinated multi-year ocean exploration campaign on the Blake Plateau offshore of the southeastern U.S. has mapped what appears to be the most expansive cold-water coral (CWC) mound province thus far discovered. Nearly continuous CWC mound features span an area up to 500 km long and 110 km wide, with a core area of high-density mounds up to 254 km long by 42 km wide. This study synthesized bathymetric data from 31 multibeam sonar mapping surveys and generated a standardized geomorphic classification of the region in order to delineate and quantify CWC mound habitats and compare mound morphologies among subregions of the coral province. Based on the multibeam bathymetry, a total of 83,908 individual peak features were delineated, providing the first estimate of the overall number of potential CWC mounds mapped in the region to date. Five geomorphic landform classes were mapped and quantified: peaks (411 km2), valleys (3598 km2), ridges (3642 km2), slopes (23,082 km2), and flats (102,848 km2). The complex geomorphology of eight subregions was described qualitatively with geomorphic “fingerprints” (spatial patterns) and quantitatively by measurements of mound density and vertical relief. This study demonstrated the value of applying an objective automated terrain segmentation and classification approach to geomorphic characterization of a highly complex CWC mound province. Manual delineation of these features in a consistent repeatable way with a comparable level of detail would not have been possible.
Implementing a Food Prescription Program during COVID-19: Benefits and Barriers
Authors: Himmelgreen David , Romero-Daza Nancy , Webb William Alex , Heuer Jacquelyn N. , Gray Deven , Lehigh Gabrielle R.
Published: January 2024

Food prescription programs (Food Rx) have the potential to improve management of diet-related chronic diseases or underlying conditions such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), hypertension, and high body mass index (BMI) among food-insecure patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a Food Rx program implemented in two community-based clinics in Florida. Data were collected through researcher-administered surveys (food insecurity, demographics, and socio-economic variables) and biometric data (HbA1c, blood pressure, and BMI). Key results include the following: (1) Hispanic patients are more likely to utilize the program than their Black and White counterparts (p < 0.001); (2) older patients (≥50 years) have a higher food redemption rate when compared to younger patients (36–49.9 years); (3) food redemption rate is negatively associated with food security scores indicating improvements in food security status over time (r2 = −0.184, p = 0.036); (4) diabetic patients with higher baseline HbA1c (>9%) have significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (p = 0.011) over time as compared to patients with lower baseline values (<7%); and (5) patients enrolled in the program for at least 6 months have a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (p = 0.051). Changes in BMI were not significantly associated with redemption rates. This study is significant as it offers insights into the potential benefits and challenges of implementing Food Rx programs to address diet-related chronic diseases among underserved populations.
The Association between Perceived Stress, Quality of Life, and Level of Physical Activity in Public School Teachers
Authors: da Silva Claudiele Carla Marques , Santos Amanda Barbosa dos , Leoci Isabella Cristina , Leite Enrique Gervasoni , Antunes Ewerton Pegorelli , Torres Wesley , Mesquita Eduardo Duarte de Lima , Delfino Leandro Dragueta , Beretta Victor Spiandor
Published: January 2024

Chronic high stress levels related to work impact the quality of life (QoL). Although physical activity improves QoL, it is not clear whether this life study habit could attenuate possible relationships between QoL and stress in public school teachers. The sample for this study was made up of 231 teachers from public schools. QoL was assessed using the Short-Form Health Survey and physical activity via Baecke’s questionnaire. A Likert scale assessed stress level perception. Poisson Regression analyzed the association between stress level and QoL domains adjusted for sex, age, and socioeconomic conditions (model 1). In model 2, physical activity level was inserted in addition to model 1. Seven out of eight domains of QoL, except the domain of pain, were associated with high levels of stress (all p < 0.05–model 1). However, in model 2, the associations of the high levels of stress with general health status (p = 0.052) and functional capacity (p = 0.081) domains of QoL were mitigated. Our results indicated that physical activity mitigated the relationship between higher levels of stress and lower perception of general health status and functional capacity domains in secondary public school teachers.
Which Gelatin and Antibiotic Should Be Chosen to Seal a Woven Vascular Graft?
Authors: Zhuravleva Irina Yu. , Shadanov Aldar A. , Surovtseva Maria A. , Vaver Andrey A. , Samoylova Larisa M. , Vladimirov Sergey V. , Timchenko Tatiana P. , Kim Irina I. , Poveshchenko Olga V.
Published: January 2024

Among the vascular prostheses used for aortic replacement, 95% are woven or knitted grafts from polyester fibers. Such grafts require sealing, for which gelatin (Gel) is most often used. Sometimes antibiotics are added to the sealant. We used gelatin type A (GelA) or type B (GelB), containing one of the three antibiotics (Rifampicin, Ceftriaxone, or Vancomycin) in the sealant films. Our goal was to study the effect of these combinations on the mechanical and antibacterial properties and the cytocompatibility of the grafts. The mechanical characteristics were evaluated using water permeability and kinking radius. Antibacterial properties were studied using the disk diffusion method. Cytocompatibility with EA.hy926 endothelial cells was assessed via indirect cytotoxicity, cell adhesion, and viability upon direct contact with the samples (3, 7, and 14 days). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) were used to visualize the cells in the deep layers of the graft wall. “GelA + Vancomycin” and “GelB + vancomycin” grafts showed similar good mechanical characteristics (permeability~10 mL/min/cm2, kinking radius 21 mm) and antibacterial properties (inhibition zones for Staphilococcus aureus~15 mm, for Enterococcus faecalis~12 mm). The other samples did not exhibit any antibacterial properties. The cytocompatibility was good in all the tested groups, but endothelial cells exhibited the ability to self-organize capillary-like structures only when interacting with the “GelB + antibiotics” coatings. Based on the results obtained, we consider “GelB + vancomycin” sealant to be the most promising.
Dose-Dependent Transcriptional Response to Ionizing Radiation Is Orchestrated with DNA Repair within the Nuclear Space
Authors: Chaturvedi Garima , Sarusi-Portuguez Avital , Loza Olga , Shimoni-Sebag Ariel , Yoron Orly , Lawrence Yaacov Richard , Zach Leor , Hakim Ofir
Published: January 2024

Radiation therapy is commonly used to treat glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain tumors. Ionizing radiation (IR) induces dose-specific variations in transcriptional programs, implicating that they are tightly regulated and critical components in the tumor response and survival. Yet, our understanding of the downstream molecular events triggered by effective vs. non-effective IR doses is limited. Herein, we report that variations in the genetic programs are positively and functionally correlated with the exposure to effective or non-effective IR doses. Genome architecture analysis revealed that gene regulation is spatially and temporally coordinated with DNA repair kinetics. The radiation-activated genes were pre-positioned in active sub-nuclear compartments and were upregulated following the DNA damage response, while the DNA repair activity shifted to the inactive heterochromatic spatial compartments. The IR dose affected the levels of DNA damage repair and transcription modulation, but not the order of the events, which was linked to their spatial nuclear positioning. Thus, the distinct coordinated temporal dynamics of DNA damage repair and transcription reprogramming in the active and inactive sub-nuclear compartments highlight the importance of high-order genome organization in synchronizing the molecular events following IR.
Upregulation of Wheat Heat Shock Transcription Factor TaHsfC3-4 by ABA Contributes to Drought Tolerance
Authors: Ma Zhenyu , Zhao Baihui , Zhang Huaning , Duan Shuonan , Liu Zihui , Guo Xiulin , Meng Xiangzhao , Li Guoliang
Published: January 2024

Drought stress can seriously affect the yield and quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum). So far, although few wheat heat shock transcription factors (Hsfs) have been found to be involved in the stress response, the biological functions of them, especially the members of the HsfC (heat shock transcription factor C) subclass, remain largely unknown. Here, we identified a class C encoding gene, TaHsfC3-4, based on our previous omics data and analyzed its biological function in transgenic plants. TaHsfC3-4 encodes a protein containing 274 amino acids and shows the basic characteristics of the HsfC class. Gene expression profiles revealed that TaHsfC3-4 was constitutively expressed in many tissues of wheat and was induced during seed maturation. TaHsfC3-4 could be upregulated by PEG and abscisic acid (ABA), suggesting that this Hsf may be involved in the regulation pathway depending on ABA in drought resistance. Further results represented that TaHsfC3-4 was localized in the nucleus but had no transcriptional activation activity. Notably, overexpression of TaHsfC3-4 in Arabidopsis thaliana pyr1pyl1pyl2pyl4 (pyr1pyl124) quadruple mutant plants complemented the ABA-hyposensitive phenotypes of the quadruple mutant including cotyledon greening, root elongation, seedling growth, and increased tolerance to drought, indicating positive roles of TaHsfC3-4 in the ABA signaling pathway and drought tolerance. Furthermore, we identified TaHsfA2-11 as a TaHsfC3-4-interacting protein by yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) screening. The experimental data show that TaHsfC3-4 can indeed interact with TaHsfA2-11 in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, transgenic Arabidopsis TaHsfA2-11 overexpression lines exhibited enhanced drought tolerance, too. In summary, our study confirmed the role of TaHsfC3-4 in response to drought stress and provided a target locus for marker-assisted selection breeding to improve drought tolerance in wheat.
Special Issue “Immunoanalytical and Bioinformatics Methods in Immunology Research”
Authors: Popov Anton , Ramanaviciene Almira
Published: January 2024

To effectively control and prevent diseases on a global scale, it is essential to employ precise, sensitive, selective, and rapid immunoanalytical methods [...]
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes Therapy for Ischemic Heart Disease in Animal Model: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vo Quan Duy , Saito Yukihiro , Nakamura Kazufumi , Iida Toshihiro , Yuasa Shinsuke
Published: January 2024

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) poses a significant challenge in cardiovascular health, with current treatments showing limited success. Induced pluripotent derived–cardiomyocyte (iPSC-CM) therapy within regenerative medicine offers potential for IHD patients, although its clinical impacts remain uncertain. This study utilizes meta-analysis to assess iPSC-CM outcomes in terms of efficacy and safety in IHD animal model studies. A meta-analysis encompassing PUBMED, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases, from inception until October 2023, investigated iPSC therapy effects on cardiac function and safety outcomes. Among 51 eligible studies involving 1012 animals, despite substantial heterogeneity, the iPSC-CM transplantation improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by 8.23% (95% CI, 7.15 to 9.32%; p < 0.001) compared to control groups. Additionally, cell-based treatment reduced the left ventricle fibrosis area and showed a tendency to reduce left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) and end-diastolic volume (LVEDV). No significant differences emerged in mortality and arrhythmia risk between iPSC-CM treatment and control groups. In conclusion, this meta-analysis indicates iPSC-CM therapy’s promise as a safe and beneficial intervention for enhancing heart function in IHD. However, due to observed heterogeneity, the efficacy of this treatment must be further explored through large randomized controlled trials based on rigorous research design.
CsCuAO1 Associated with CsAMADH1 Confers Drought Tolerance by Modulating GABA Levels in Tea Plants
Authors: Cao Yu , Chen Yiwen , Cheng Nuo , Zhang Kexin , Duan Yu , Fang Shimao , Shen Qiang , Yang Xiaowei , Fang Wanping , Zhu Xujun
Published: January 2024

Our previous study showed that COPPER-CONTAINING AMINE OXIDASE (CuAO) and AMINOALDEHYDE DEHYDROGENASE (AMADH) could regulate the accumulation of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in tea through the polyamine degradation pathway. However, their biological function in drought tolerance has not been determined. In this study, Camellia sinensis (Cs) CsCuAO1 associated with CsAMADH1 conferred drought tolerance, which modulated GABA levels in tea plants. The results showed that exogenous GABA spraying effectively alleviated the drought-induced physical damage. Arabidopsis lines overexpressing CsCuAO1 and CsAMADH1 exhibited enhanced resistance to drought, which promoted the synthesis of GABA and putrescine by stimulating reactive oxygen species’ scavenging capacity and stomatal movement. However, the suppression of CsCuAO1 or CsAMADH1 in tea plants resulted in increased sensitivity to drought treatment. Moreover, co-overexpressing plants increased GABA accumulation both in an Agrobacterium-mediated Nicotiana benthamiana transient assay and transgenic Arabidopsis plants. In addition, a GABA transporter gene, CsGAT1, was identified, whose expression was strongly correlated with GABA accumulation levels in different tissues under drought stress. Taken together, CsCuAO1 and CsAMADH1 were involved in the response to drought stress through a dynamic GABA-putrescine balance. Our data will contribute to the characterization of GABA’s biological functions in response to environmental stresses in plants.
Simulation-Enhanced MQAM Modulation Identification in Communication Systems: A Subtractive Clustering-Based PSO-FCM Algorithm Study
Authors: Quan Zhi , Zhang Hailong , Luo Jiyu , Sun Haijun
Published: January 2024

Signal modulation recognition is often reliant on clustering algorithms. The fuzzy c-means (FCM) algorithm, which is commonly used for such tasks, often converges to local optima. This presents a challenge, particularly in low-signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) environments. We propose an enhanced FCM algorithm that incorporates particle swarm optimization (PSO) to improve the accuracy of recognizing M-ary quadrature amplitude modulation (MQAM) signal orders. The process is a two-step clustering process. First, the constellation diagram of the received signal is used by a subtractive clustering algorithm based on SNR to figure out the initial number of clustering centers. The PSO-FCM algorithm then refines these centers to improve precision. Accurate signal classification and identification are achieved by evaluating the relative sizes of the radii around the cluster centers within the MQAM constellation diagram and determining the modulation order. The results indicate that the SC-based PSO-FCM algorithm outperforms the conventional FCM in clustering effectiveness, notably enhancing modulation recognition rates in low-SNR conditions, when evaluated against a variety of QAM signals ranging from 4QAM to 64QAM.
ABAC Policy Mining through Affiliation Networks and Biclique Analysis
Authors: Perez-Haro Abner , Diaz-Perez Arturo
Published: January 2024

Policy mining is an automated procedure for generating access rules by means of mining patterns from single permissions, which are typically registered in access logs. Attribute-based access control (ABAC) is a model which allows security administrators to create a set of rules, known as the access control policy, to restrict access in information systems by means of logical expressions defined through the attribute–values of three types of entities: users, resources, and environmental conditions. The application of policy mining in large-scale systems oriented towards ABAC is a must because it is not workable to create rules by hand when the system requires the management of thousands of users and resources. In the literature on ABAC policy mining, current solutions follow a frequency-based strategy to extract rules; the problem with that approach is that selecting a high-frequency support leaves many resources without rules (especially those with few requesters), and a low support leads to the rule explosion of unreliable rules. Another challenge is the difficulty of collecting a set of test examples for correctness evaluation, since the classes of user–resource pairs available in logs are imbalanced. Moreover, alternative evaluation criteria for correctness, such as peculiarity and diversity, have not been explored for ABAC policy mining. To address these challenges, we propose the modeling of access logs as affiliation networks for applying network and biclique analysis techniques (1) to extract ABAC rules supported by graph patterns without a frequency threshold, (2) to generate synthetic examples for correctness evaluation, and (3) to create alternative evaluation measures to correctness. We discovered that the rules extracted through our strategy can cover more resources than the frequency-based strategy and perform this without rule explosion; moreover, our synthetics are useful for increasing the certainty level of correctness results. Finally, our alternative measures offer a wider evaluation profile for policy mining.
Effect of Acetamiprid, a Neonicotinoid Insecticide, on Locomotor Activity of the American Cockroach
Authors: Taillebois Emiliane , Cartereau Alison , Thany Steeve H.
Published: January 2024

Toxicological studies have shown that the American cockroach Periplaneta americana (Linnaeus) is a classical model for studying the mode of action of commonly used insecticides. In a previous study, we demonstrated that thiamethoxam and clothianidin decreased locomotor activity in an open-field-like apparatus. Here, we tested the effect of the neonicotinoid acetamiprid when applied orally, topically, or injected into the haemolymph. We found that acetamiprid was also able to impair locomotor activity in the open-field-like apparatus. When treated with acetamiprid, a strong alteration in locomotor activity was observed 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h after haemolymph and topical applications. Oral application induced an impairment of locomotor activity at 24 h and 48 h. A comparison of the present data with our previously published results showed that neonicotinoids were more active when injected into the haemolymph compared to oral and topical applications. These findings increased our understanding of the effect of neonicotinoid insecticides on insect locomotor activity, and demonstrated that the cyano-substituted neonicotinoid, acetamiprid, was able to alter cockroach locomotor activity.
Anatolian Short-Horned Grasshoppers Unveiled: Integrating Biogeography and Pest Potential
Authors: Çıplak Battal , Uluar Onur
Published: January 2024

Biogeographically, Anatolia harbours a rich diversity of short-horned grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Caelifera). The number of species recorded from Anatolia so far stands at 300. They inhabit diverse habitats ranging from arid Eremial to Euro-Siberian-like montane meadows, aligning with the topographical and climatological heterogeneity of Anatolia. Alongside some swarming species, the pest potential of several pullulating species needs attention. This is especially important concerning global warming, a scenario expected to be more severe in the Northern Mediterranean Basin in general and Anatolia specifically. A faunal list of biogeographic Anatolia, the area extending from the Aegean Sea in the west to the intermountain basin of the Caucasus in the northeast, the lowlands of Lake Urmia in the east, and Mesopotamia in the southeast, was developed. The recorded species were classified according to the phytogeographical provinces of Anatolia. Distributions of the species with the potential for pullulating were modelled using ecological-niche-modelling approaches for the present and future. The results have the potential to lead to the development of a concept that merges biogeography and the pest potential of certain Anatolian grasshopper species. Our results reveal the following: (i) Acrididae and Pamphagidae are the most diverse families represented in Anatolia; (ii) roughly 40% of Caelifera and 71% of Pamphagidae are endemics, suggesting Anatolia is a biodiversity hotspot; (iii) according to Caelifera diversity, the phytogeographical provinces of Anatolia follow an order of Irano-Anatolia, Euro-Siberia, Mediterranean, and Mesopotamia; and (iv) based on ecological modelling and personal observations, Dociostaurus maroccanus, Locusta migratoria, Calliptamus italicus, Heteracris pterosticha, Notostaurus anatolicus, Oedipoda miniata, and O. schochii should be monitored regarding their pest potential.
The Impact of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on Acute Pain and Other Postoperative Outcomes: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Viderman Dmitriy , Nabidollayeva Fatima , Aubakirova Mina , Sadir Nurzhamal , Tapinova Karina , Tankacheyev Ramil , Abdildin Yerkin G.
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in postoperative acute pain control. PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched on 1–8 December 2022, for randomized controlled trials on the analgesic effects of TENS. The outcomes were pain intensity and opioid use (primary), and postoperative (PO) adverse events, blood pressure, and the duration of hospital stay (secondary); PROSPERO CRD42022333335. A total of 40 articles were included in the meta-analysis. Pain intensity at rest and during coughing for all types of surgeries combined was lower in the TENS group (standardized mean difference (SMD) = −0.51 [−0.61, −0.41], p < 0.00001, 29 studies, and −1.28 [−2.46, −0.09], p-value = 0.03, six studies, respectively). There was a statistically significant decrease in morphine requirements, as well as in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, dizziness, and pruritus. There was no difference between the groups in postoperative pain intensity during walking, in blood pressure, and only a borderline difference in the length of hospital stay. The subgroup analysis by surgery type did not show significant differences between the groups in pain severity at rest. Thus, TENS has a potential for pain control and postoperative recovery outcomes.
The Effect of Sodium–Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors on COVID-19 Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using the Common Data Model
Authors: Lim Kyoung Ree , Chun Kwang Jin , Kim Bum Sung , Lee Seunghwa
Published: January 2024

Background: There is no clinical evidence about the effect of sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on diabetic patients who have been diagnosed with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). Methods: The dataset is based on insurance benefit claims sent to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service of Korea from January, 2018 to April, 2022. Among 9,822,577 patients who were involved in the claims, diabetic patients were divided into two groups based on whether they had a prescription for an SGLT2 inhibitor. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), which were a composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, and revascularization over 90 days. Results: A total of 172,682 patients was analyzed. In the propensity score-matched analysis, the rate of MACCE was lower in the SGLT2 inhibitor group compared to the non-SGLT2 inhibitor group (0.89% vs. 1.31%; hazard ratio, 0.71; 95% confidence interval, 0.53–0.94; p =0.020). Each of the MACCEs showed no differences between the two groups. The rate of pneumonia was similar between the two groups (4.45% vs. 4.39%; hazard ratio, 1.06; 95% confidence interval, 0.91–1.16; p = 0.620). Conclusions: In the diabetic patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with improved clinical outcomes in terms of MACCEs. SGLT2 inhibitors might be considered for prescription to diabetic patients in the current context of long COVID-19.
Development of a Nanoparticle System for Controlled Release in Bioprinted Respiratory Scaffolds
Authors: Zimmerling Amanda , Sunil Christina , Zhou Yan , Chen Xiongbiao
Published: January 2024

The use of nanoparticle systems for the controlled release of growth factors is a promising approach to mimicking of the biochemical environment of native tissues in tissue engineering. However, sustaining growth factor release inside an appropriate therapeutic window is a challenge, particularly in bioprinted scaffolds. In this study, a chitosan-coated alginate-based nanoparticle system loaded with hepatocyte growth factor was developed and then incorporated into bioprinted scaffolds. The release kinetics were investigated with a focus on identifying the impact of the chitosan coating and culture conditions. Our results demonstrated that the chitosan coating decreased the release rate and lessened the initial burst release, while culturing in dynamic conditions had no significant impact compared to static conditions. The nanoparticles were then incorporated into bioinks at various concentrations, and scaffolds with a three-dimensional (3D) structure were bioprinted from the bioinks containing human pulmonary fibroblasts and bronchial epithelial cells to investigate the potential use of a controlled release system in respiratory tissue engineering. It was found that the bioink loaded with a concentration of 4 µg/mL of nanoparticles had better printability compared to other concentrations, while the mechanical stability of the scaffolds was maintained over a 14-day culture period. The examination of the incorporated cells demonstrated a high degree of viability and proliferation with visualization of the beginning of an epithelial barrier layer. Taken together, this study demonstrates that a chitosan-coated alginate-based nanoparticle system allows the sustained release of growth factors in bioprinted respiratory tissue scaffolds.
Efficacy of a Solution Containing 33% Trichloroacetic Acid and Hydrogen Peroxide in Decontaminating Machined vs. Sand-Blasted Acid-Etched Titanium Surfaces
Authors: Baima Giacomo , Romano Federica , Roato Ilaria , Mosca Balma Alessandro , Pedraza Riccardo , Faga Maria Giulia , Amoroso Federico , Orrico Clarissa , Genova Tullio , Aimetti Mario , Mussano Federico
Published: January 2024

This in vitro study assessed the efficacy of a solution containing 33% trichloroacetic acid (CCl3COOH; TCA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in decontaminating machined (MAC) and sand-blasted acid-etched (SBAE) titanium surfaces. A total of 80 titanium disks were prepared (40 MAC and 40 SBAE). Streptococcus sanguinis and Enterococcus faecalis strains were incubated on 36 samples, while the remaining 44 were kept as controls. Roughness analysis and scanning electron microscopy were used to evaluate the surface features before and after TCAH2O2 treatment. The viability of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) after TCAH2O2 decontamination was assessed with a chemiluminescent assay along with cell morphology through fluorescent staining. TCAH2O2 preserved the surface topography of MAC and SBAE specimens. It also effectively eradicated bacteria on both types of specimens without altering the surface roughness (p > 0.05). Also, no significant differences in protein adsorption between the pristine and TCAH2O2-treated surfaces were found (p = 0.71 and p = 0.94). While ASC proliferation remained unchanged on MAC surfaces, a decrease was observed on the decontaminated SBAE specimens at 24 and 48 h (p < 0.05), with no difference at 72 h (p > 0.05). Cell morphology showed no significant changes after 72 h on both surface types even after decontamination. This study suggests TCAH2O2 as a promising decontamination agent for titanium surfaces, with potential implications for peri-implant health and treatment outcomes.
Research on Submarine Hydrothermal Activity and Its Material Circulation, Magmatic Setting, and Seawater, Sedimentary, Biologic Effects
Authors: Zeng Zhigang , Zhang Yuxiang , Chen Zuxing
Published: January 2024

Submarine hydrothermal activity has been a focused research topic since its discovery in the 1970s [...]
Supervised Pelvic Floor Muscle Training Improves Sexual Function and Diminishes Sexual Distress in Women with Relapsing–Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Zachariou Athanasios , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Sapouna Vaia , Skentou Chara , Kaltsas Aris , Giannakis Ioannis , Zachariou Dimitrios , Dimitriadis Fotios , Mamoulakis Charalampos , Mai Dung Ba Tien , Phuoc Nguyen Ho Vinh , Takenaka Atsushi , Sofikitis Nikolaos
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the impact of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on sexual function and distress in women with multiple sclerosis (MS), a prevalent chronic nervous system disorder associated with sexual dysfunction. This study’s primary aim was to assess the effectiveness of PFMT at improving sexual function and alleviating sexual distress in this population. In a randomised controlled trial, 82 women with MS were divided into two groups: Group A (41 women) underwent 12 weeks of PFMT, while Group B (41 women) served as a control group with no intervention. Both groups were assessed at the beginning and end of this study using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R). Statistical analysis, including Chi-square tests, was employed to compare the outcomes between the two groups, with a p-value of less than 0.05 considered significant. The results revealed no significant differences in baseline sexual function and distress between the groups. However, at the conclusion of the 12-week period, Group A exhibited statistically significant improvements in nearly all domains of FSFI and FSDS-R compared to Group B, except in the pain domain. This study concludes that PFMT can effectively enhance sexual function and reduce sexual distress in women suffering from MS. These findings underscore the potential of PFMT as a therapeutic intervention in managing sexual dysfunction associated with MS.