bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Goat Manure Fertilization on Grain Nutritional Value in Two Contrasting Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Varieties Cultivated at High Altitudes
Authors: González J. A. , Yousif Sawsan K. M. , Erazzu L. E. , Martínez Calsina L. , Lizarraga E. F. , Omer Rihab M. , Bazile D. , Fernandez-Turiel J. L. , Buedo S. E. , Rejas M. , Fontana P. D. , González D. A. , Oviedo A. , Alzuaibr Fahad Mohammed , Al-Qahtani Salem Mesfer , Al-Harbi Nadi Awad , Ibrahim Mohamed F. M. , Van Nieuwenhove C. P.
Published: March 2023

In this study, the effects of goat manure fertilization (2, 4, 8, and 12 Tn/ha) on the grain yield, organic compounds, and mineral composition of two quinoa varieties (CICA-17 and Regalona Baer) were evaluated under field conditions in Northwest Argentina. The results indicate that fertilization improved the quinoa grain yield and total protein content. Low manure doses positively affected the fatty acid (FA) profile, and significant changes were determined for the monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acid contents of CICA-17 and on the saturated fatty acid (SFA) contents of R. Baer seeds. The amino acid contents were positively affected in CICA-17 and negatively in R. Baer. Soluble sugars (glucose, fructose, and sucrose), major elements (K, Si, P, Mg, Ca, and Na), minor elements (Fe, Mn, Al, Zn, and Cu), and ultratrace elements (Cr and Li) were detected and discussed in terms of their impact on human nutrition and health. Conclusively, manure addition affected some essential amino acids, the desaturase activity, the n6:n3 and SFA/UFA ratios, the atherogenic index, soluble sugars, and mineral content, and the fatty acid metabolism of each variety was differently affected, especially the C16 and C18 desaturase activity, which responded differently to various manure doses. Manure addition is a promising alternative to improve the nutritional quality and functionality of quinoa grains, but the response is not linear.
Seasonal Variation in the Body Composition, Carcass Composition, and Offal Quality in the Wild Fallow Deer (Dama dama L.)
Authors: Stanisz Marek , Skorupski Maciej , Bykowska-Maciejewska Marta , Składanowska-Baryza Joanna , Ludwiczak Agnieszka
Published: March 2023

The goal of this study was to examine the seasonal variation in the body composition, carcass composition, and quality of edible internal organs from the fallow deer hunt-harvested in the summer (n = 9) and the winter (n = 10) seasons. The weight and proportion of the mesenteric and omental fat were greater for the animals harvested in the winter (1.12 kg and 2.75%) compared to those from the summer season (0.43 kg and 1.02%). The winter-harvested animals had more perinephric fat (0.75 kg and 1.84%) than those hunted in summer (0.26 kg and 1.84%). The gastrointestinal tract of the fallow deer hunted in summer was more filled with feed and therefore heavier (7.92 kg) compared to those from the winter season (5.16 kg). The proportion of fat was significantly greater in the carcasses obtained in winter compared to the summer season (6.55% vs. 3.79%). No seasonal variety was found in the physicochemical characteristics of the edible offal, but the content of extractable fat was significantly affected by the season. In conclusion, the effect of the season on the slaughter value of the hunt-harvested fallow deer was limited to a variation in the proportion of some of the internal organs and affected the fat deposition in the body of the examined animals. The season significantly affected the fat content in the carcass and the extractable fat content in the examined offal.
Prevalence and Morphological Investigation of Parasitic Infection in Freshwater Fish (Nile Tilapia) from Upper Egypt
Authors: Abd-ELrahman Salwa Mahmoud , Gareh Ahmed , Mohamed Hager Ibrahem , Alrashdi Barakat M. , Dyab Ahmed Kamal , El-Khadragy Manal F. , Khairy Elbarbary Nady , Fouad Alamira Marzouk , El-Gohary Fatma A. , Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb , Mohamed Sara Abdel-Aal
Published: March 2023

Fish are a source of high-quality protein with low cholesterol, but they are susceptible to parasitic infections, which have a significant impact on aquaculture, in addition to their zoonotic potential. The present study estimated parasitic infections and evaluated the diversity of zoonotic parasites in freshwater Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in Assiut Governorate, Upper Egypt. A total of 300 samples were randomly collected from the Assiut Governorate. These fish were examined for both ectoparasites and endoparasites, followed by the experimental infection of mice with encysted metacercariae (EMC) for the retrieval of the adult worms. The overall prevalence of the variable parasites was 82% (246 of 300). Both ecto- and endoparasites were detected in 41% (123 of 300) of the examined fish. The identified ectoparasites were Gyrodactylus, Dactylogrus, Cichlidogyrus, Trichodina and Icthyophthirius multifiliis, in 5%, 4%, 22%, 6% and 4% of the fish, respectively. The endoparasites were trematodes (Orientocreadium batrachoides 3%), nematodes (Contracaecum. 2%), acanthocephala (Acanthosentis tilapiae 25%) and protozoa that included Isospora and Eimeria spp., in 1% and 8% of fish, respectively. Myxobolus was detected in 2% of the examined fish. The overall prevalence of encysted metacercariae (EMC) was 95% (285 of 300), while infection with macroscopic EMC had a prevalence of 37% and microscopic EMC had a prevalence of 58%. The adult worms recovered from the experimental infections were Prohemistomum vivax and Mesostephanus spp., which belong to the family Cyathocotylidae. Collectively, these findings reflect the relatively high occurrence of parasites among the studied fish, confirming the necessity of strict measures to control infection.
Laparoscopic Salpingectomy and Vasectomy to Inhibit Fertility in Free-Ranging Nutrias (Myocastor coypus)
Authors: Bonaffini Giuseppe , Serpieri Matteo , Ottino Chiara , Scandone Luca , Quaranta Giuseppe , Mauthe von Degerfeld Mitzy
Published: March 2023

The nutria (Myocastor coypus), an invasive alien species, is widely spread in Europe. Pursuant to regulation (EU) no. 1143/2014, the nutria is subject to management programs to reduce its spread. Surgical fertility control is considered an acceptable method, particularly in urban circumstances, avoiding euthanasia. To maintain the hormonal patterns and the social and behavioral dynamics, surgical infertilization preserving the gonads (i.e., salpingectomy and vasectomy) is recommended. Mini-invasive surgery is an eligible choice when dealing with wildlife, allowing reduced captivation time. For these reasons, 77 free-ranging nutrias, captured in urban nuclei in Italy, underwent infertilization under general anesthesia; laparoscopic salpingectomy and vasectomy were performed on 32 animals and traditional surgery on the remainder, leaving the gonads in place. A three-port technique was used, with two paramedian trocars (5 mm) for the instruments and a median one for the telescope. Ablation was obtained through Onemytis® plasma device, allowing a rapid surgical time with no need to place visceral sutures; the skin was surgically closed. After recovery, the animals were released, and no overt complications were noted. No modification of the behavioral patterns was noted, and the population decreased during the following months.
Formation, Application, and Significance of Chicken Primordial Germ Cells: A Review
Authors: Mathan  , Zaib Gul , Jin Kai , Zuo Qisheng , Habib Maham , Zhang Yani , Li Bichun
Published: March 2023

Chicken is one of the most widely consumed sources of protein globally. Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the precursors for ova and sperm. One of the early embryogenesis events in most animals is the segregation of the somatic and germ lineages. PGC cultures occur in the germline, and PGCs are less studied in many species. It is relatively challenging to separate, cultivate, and genetically alter chicken without mutating the basic germline. The present study aims to gather previous research about chicken PGCs and provide a customized review of studies and developments in the field of PGCs, especially for avian species. Furthermore, we show that the propagation of chicken PGCs into embryonic germ cells that contribute to somatic tissues may be produced in vitro. Primordial germ cells offer an ideal system in developmental biology, as these cells play a vital role in the genetic modification and treatment of infertility. Cryopreservation helps to maintain genetic resources and sustainable production in the poultry industry. Keeping in mind the significance of cryopreservation for storage and gametogenesis, we discuss its role in the preservation of primordial germ cells. Transgenesis and genetic modifications in chicken lead to the development of various medicinal chicken varieties and aid in improving their production and quality for consumption purposes. Additionally, these characteristics open up new possibilities for modifying the chicken genome for agricultural and medical purposes.
Occurrence of Giardia duodenalis in Cats from Queretaro and the Risk to Public Health
Authors: Veyna-Salazar Nerina P. , Cantó-Alarcón Germinal J. , Olvera-Ramírez Andrea M. , Ruiz-López Felipe J. , Bernal-Reynaga Rodolfo , Bárcenas-Reyes Isabel , Durán-Aguilar Marina
Published: March 2023

Giardia is a protozoan that affects humans as well as a wide range of domestic species. It is distributed worldwide, and the highest frequency is seen in developing countries. Due to the potential for domestic cats to be carriers of this parasite and subsequently transmit the infection to humans, it is important to know the risk of transmission. For this reason, the objective of this study was to determine the frequency of this parasite in the cat population of the city of Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico, and identify the assemblages present to determine the role this host plays in public health, this being the first study of its type to be performed in the country. This was a cross-sectional study during which 200 fecal samples were collected from cats of both sexes and varying ages and strata of origin. The samples were analyzed by microscopy following the flotation technique, having obtained a general frequency of 25%. Giardia cysts were found at higher frequency in pasty stools. The assemblages found were zoonotic, specifically assemblage A, which suggests that the cat poses an important risk for the dissemination of the parasite to humans, making it an important public health problem.
Electroencephalogram and Physiological Responses as Affected by Slaughter Empathy in Goats
Authors: Kumar Pavan , Abubakar Ahmed Abubakar , Ahmed Muideen Adewale , Hayat Muhammad Nizam , Ajat Mokrish , Kaka Ubedullah , Goh Yong Meng , Sazili Awis Qurni
Published: March 2023

Recent advances in emotions and cognitive science make it imperative to assess the emotional stress in goats at the time of slaughter. The present study was envisaged to study the electroencephalogram and physiological responses as affected by slaughter empathy in goats. A total of 12 goats were divided into two groups viz., E-group (goats exposed to slaughter environment, n = 6) and S-group (goat slaughtered in front of E-group, n = 6). The electroencephalogram and physiological responses in male Boer cross goats (E-group) were recorded in a slaughterhouse in two stages viz., control (C) without exposure to the slaughter of conspecifics and treatment (T) while visualizing the slaughter of conspecifics (S—slaughter group). The exposure of the goat to the slaughter of a conspecific resulted in a heightened emotional state. It caused significant alterations in neurobiological activity as recorded with the significant changes in the EEG spectrum (beta waves (p = 0.000491), theta waves (p = 0.017), and median frequency MF or F50 (p = 0.002)). Emotional stress was also observed to significantly increase blood glucose (p = 0.031) and a non-significant (p = 0.225) increase in heart rate in goats. Thus, slaughter empathy was observed to exert a significant effect on the electric activity of neurons in the cerebrocortical area of the brain and an increase in blood glucose content.
In Vivo and In Vitro Expression of iC1, a Methylation-Controlled J Protein (MCJ) in Bovine Liver, and Response to In Vitro Bovine Fatty Liver Disease Model
Authors: Choudhary Shanti , LaCasse Michelle , Choudhary Ratan Kumar , Rincon Mercedes , Beitz Donald C. , Testroet Eric D.
Published: March 2023

Mitochondrial complex I inhibitor (iC1) is a methylation-controlled J protein (MCJ) that decreases cellular respiration by inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation. Recent rodent studies showed that loss or inhibition of iC1 was associated with preventing lipid accumulation. A common metabolic disorder of dairy cattle is a fatty liver disease (FLD), which often occurs during the periparturient period. In humans and rodents, iC1 is expressed in the liver and acts as a mitochondrial “brake”. However, iC1 expression in bovine liver and its possible role in FLD development have not yet been characterized. We hypothesized that iC1 is expressed in the bovine liver and that the expression of iC1 is correlated with FLD in periparturient dairy cattle. To test this hypothesis, we collected bovine liver tissue samples from an abattoir and isolated primary hepatic cells immediately following harvest. Utilizing an in vitro model of bovine FLD developed in our laboratory, we cultured primary hepatic cells in low-glucose DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS. The basal media was made to induce lipid accumulation and cytotoxicity in the primary liver cells with three treatments. To the basal media (control) we added 0.4 mM palmitate (treatment 1) or 20 ng/mL TNFα (treatment 2), or both 0.4 mM palmitate and 20 ng/mL TNFα (treatment 3). Consistent with our hypothesis, we present the novel characterization of iC1 expression in primary bovine liver cells cultured with or without the addition of lipotoxic factors made to emulate bovine FLD. We demonstrate both in situ and in vitro expression of iC1 in bovine liver and mRNA expression in hepatic cells and in the precipitates of conditioned media. The results of RT-qPCR, IHC, and western blot all demonstrated the expression of iC1 in bovine liver. In addition, we isolated precipitates of conditioned media further demonstrated iC1 expression by RT-qPCR. The transcript of iC1 tended to be more concentrated (4-fold; p > 0.05) in TNFα-treated conditioned media when compared with the control. Taken together, we present the novel finding that iC1 transcript and protein are expressed in liver tissue from dairy cattle, primary hepatic cells isolated from that liver tissue, and, finally, in the conditioned media derived from those cells. These novel findings and the prior findings on the role of iC1 in rodents and humans indicate that further investigation of the role of iC1 in the etiology and pathology of FLD in periparturient dairy cows is warranted.
The Effect of Supplementation with Betaine and Zinc on In Vitro Large Intestinal Fermentation in Iberian Pigs under Heat Stress
Authors: Pardo Zaira , Mateos Iván , Saro Cristina , Campos Rómulo , Argüello Héctor , Lachica Manuel , Ranilla María José , Fernández-Fígares Ignacio
Published: March 2023

We investigated the effects of betaine and zinc on the in vitro fermentation of pigs under heat stress (HS). Twenty-four Iberian pigs (43.4 ± 1.2 kg) under HS (30 °C) were assigned to treatments for 4 weeks: control (unsupplemented), betaine (5 g/kg), and zinc (0.120 g/kg) supplemented diet. Rectal content was used as the inoculum in 24-hincubations with pure substrates (starch, pectin, inulin, cellulose). Total gas, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), and methane production and ammonia concentration were measured. The abundance of total bacteria and several bacterial groups was assessed. Betaine increased the acetate production with pectin and inulin, butyrate production with starch and inulin, and ammonia concentration, and decreased propionate production with pectin and inulin. The abundance of Bifidobacterium and two groups of Clostridium decreased with betaine supplementation. Zinc decreased the production of SCFA and gas with starch and inulin, associated with diminished bacterial activity. Propionate production decreased with starch, pectin, and inulin while butyrate production increased with inulin, and isoacid production increased with cellulose and inulin in pigs supplemented with zinc. The ammonia concentration increased for all substrates. The Clostridium cluster XIV abundance decreased in pigs fed zinc supplemented diets. The results reported were dependent on the substrate fermented, but the augmented butyrate production with both betaine and zinc could be of benefit for the host.
Late-Onset Bleb-Related Endophthalmitis Caused by Moraxella nonliquefaciens: A Case Report
Authors: Shen Su-Chin , Chen Kuan-Jen
Published: March 2023

Moraxella species are Gram-negative coccobacilli that typically colonize the flora of the human upper respiratory tract and have low pathogenic potential. There are limited case reports implicating the organisms as the cause of endocarditis, bacteremia, septic arthritis, ocular infection, and meningitis. In cases of keratitis and conjunctivitis, Moraxella nonliquefaciens is not commonly isolated from the ocular surface. We present a case of a diabetic patient who developed late-onset bleb-related endophthalmitis caused by M. nonliquefaciens 4 years after glaucoma filtering surgery. Within one day, the patient presented with an acutely fulminant course with sudden visual loss, redness, and ocular pain. Appropriate antibiotic treatment and early vitrectomy resulted in a favorable final visual acuity of 20/100, which was his vision prior to infection. The use of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) enabled the rapid identification of the organism. Endophthalmitis caused by M. nonliquefaciens should be considered in patients who underwent glaucoma filtering surgery with antifibrotic agents.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Root Capsules Enhance Analgesic and Antioxidant Efficacy of Diclofenac Sodium in Experimental Acute Inflammation
Authors: Boarescu Ioana , Pop Raluca Maria , Boarescu Paul-Mihai , Bocșan Ioana Corina , Gheban Dan , Bulboacă Adriana Elena , Buzoianu Anca Dana , Bolboacă Sorana D.
Published: March 2023

Our study aimed to evaluate the analgesic and antioxidant effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) root capsule extract (GRCE) in addition to diclofenac (D) sodium treatment in carrageenan-induced acute inflammation (AI). Seven groups of eight Wistar-Bratislava white rats were included in the study. One group was the control (C), and AI was induced in the other six groups. The following treatments were applied: saline solution for C and AI groups, D for the AID group, GRCE for two groups and GRCE and D for another two groups. The GRCE was administered by gavage in two doses (100 mg/Kg b.w. or 200 mg/kg b.w.), while D was administered intraperitoneally in a dose of 5 mg/kg b.w. The association of GRCE with this low dose of diclofenac reduced pain threshold and improved mobility with the best results for the dose of 200 mg/kg b.w. Moreover, this combination reduced, better than D alone, the serum levels of the evaluated pro-oxidant parameters (malondialdehyde, the indirect assessment of NO synthesis, total oxidative status and oxidative stress index) up to 78%, especially oxidative stress index (p < 0.0001). GRCE alone slightly improved the antioxidant parameters (total antioxidant capacity and total thiols), but when associated with, D the results were better, especially for total thiols as their plasma levels increased up to 50% (p < 0.0010), with the best results obtained for the 200 mg/kg b.w. dose of GRCE. In conclusion, ginger root capsules associated with diclofenac might offer additional antioxidant and analgesic effects in a dose-dependent manner in acute inflammation.
Nitric Oxide/Nitric Oxide Synthase System in the Pathogenesis of Neurodegenerative Disorders—An Overview
Authors: Iova Olga-Maria , Marin Gheorghe-Eduard , Lazar Izabella , Stanescu Ioana , Dogaru Gabriela , Nicula Cristina Ariadna , Bulboacă Adriana Elena
Published: March 2023

Nitric oxide, a ubiquitous molecule found throughout the natural world, is a key molecule implicated in many central and benefic molecular pathways and has a well-established role in the function of the central nervous system, as numerous studies have previously shown. Dysregulation of its metabolism, mainly the upregulation of nitric oxide production, has been proposed as a trigger and/or aggravator for many neurological affections. Increasing evidence supports the implication of this molecule in prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The mechanisms proposed for its neurotoxicity mainly center around the increased quantities of nitric oxide that are produced in the brain, their cause, and, most importantly, the pathological metabolic cascades created. These cascades lead to the formation of neuronal toxic substances that impair the neurons’ function and structure on multiple levels. The purpose of this review is to present the main causes of increased pathological production, as well as the most important pathophysiological mechanisms triggered by nitric oxide, mechanisms that could help explain a part of the complex picture of neurodegenerative diseases and help develop targeted therapies.
Effect of Tribological Layer Formation on Wear Resistance of PI- and PEI-Based Nanocomposites in Point and Line Contacts
Authors: Panin Sergey V. , Luo Jiangkun , Buslovich Dmitry G. , Alexenko Vladislav O. , Kornienko Lyudmila A. , Byakov Anton V. , Shugurov Artur R. , Panin Konstantin S. , Berto Filippo
Published: March 2023

The tribological performance of both PI- and PEI-based nanocomposites, reinforced with chopped carbon fibers (CCF) and additionally loaded with halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) as well as carbon nanotubes (CNT), was investigated. Metal (GCr15 steel) counterparts were utilized in the point (“ball-on-disk”) and linear (“block-on-ring”) tribological contacts. In the point contact, the PEI/10CCF/1HNT nanocomposite was characterized by the maximum wear resistance and the absence of microabrasive damage of the steel counterpart (Ra = 0.02 µm). The effect of tribological layer formation through creep and mixing mechanisms was proposed to make it possible to protect (shield) the contacting surfaces. In the linear contact at the higher Ra counterpart roughness of 0.2 µm, the tribological layer was formed on both PI- and PEI-based nanocomposites. This was governed by the development of both creep and mixing processes under the cyclic action of the tangential load transmitted from the sliding counterpart and being localized on the wear track. Due to the combination of both higher manufacturability and lower cost, the PEI-based nanocomposite loaded with CCFs and HNTs is a promising inexpensive material for fabricating components of metal–polymer friction units.
Study on Mechanical Properties of Surrounding Rock and Combined Stress of Composite Lining in the Diversion Tunnel
Authors: Jiang Yan , Wang Wenlong , Yang Guanghua , Yue Jinchao , Huang Yibin
Published: March 2023

To determine the mechanical properties of the rock mass in the Nansha Branch, three in-situ tests (on-site pressure plate, borehole TV and acoustic wave, and borehole deformation methods) were carried out. Based on the deformation characteristics of the rock mass, the finite element numerical method is used to study the combined stress of the composite lining in the diversion tunnel. The results demonstrate that the deformation modulus values are similar by comparing them to tests of the pressure plate and borehole deformation method. It shows the accuracy and reliability of the deformation modulus obtained by the borehole deformation method. In addition, the deformation modulus of the borehole deformation method and wave velocity were fitted to obtain a power function relationship. The deformation modulus of the pelitic siltstones was estimated. After the Nansha Branch tunnel is filled with water, the maximum principal stress of the pipe piece is 1.953 Mpa in tensile stress, located at the outside of the waist on both sides of the pipe piece. The maximum principal stress of the reinforced concrete lining is 5.407 Mpa, located at the top and bottom inside. The maximum principal stresses have exceeded the standard tensile strength of both the pipe piece and reinforced concrete and are vulnerable to cracking. Special attention should be paid to the deformation of the above parts with regard to long-term operation.
Crude Polysaccharides from Wild-Growing Armillaria mellea—Chemical Composition and Antidiabetic, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Antiproliferative Potential
Authors: Nowacka-Jechalke Natalia , Kanak Sebastian , Moczulski Marcin , Martyna Aleksandra , Kubiński Konrad , Masłyk Maciej , Szpakowska Nikola , Kaczyński Zbigniew , Nowak Renata , Olech Marta
Published: March 2023

Armillaria mellea is a commonly harvested and consumed mushroom in Poland. Several activities of polysaccharides from this species have already been reported. However, polysaccharides from A. mellea growing in the wild in Poland have not yet been investigated. This study was conducted to obtain a crude polysaccharide fraction (AmPS) and investigate its chemical composition and biological properties. Our research suggests that A. mellea is a valuable source of polysaccharides, including β-glucans. 1H NMR and high-performance capillary electrophoresis analysis of AmPS revealed the occurrence of polysaccharides consisted of myo-inositol, mannitol, fucose, galactose, glucose, and mannose. Proteins, uronic acids, and phenolics were present only in trace amounts in the AmPS. The AmPS fraction was found to exhibit strong α-glucosidase inhibitory activity; however, no activity in relation to α-amylase was detected. The fraction was also able to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, i.e., lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase, and hyaluronidase. Moderate antioxidant and antiradical activity of AmPS was revealed by the ORAC and ABTS assay, respectively. The AmPS fraction was found to have antiproliferative potential against gastric and colorectal cancer cell lines (AGS, HT-29). These findings suggest that AmPS may be considered a health-beneficial food ingredient. Since A. mellea is a commonly known edible mushroom with a long tradition of use, its polysaccharides may be considered safe components for direct consumption or production of nutraceuticals.
A Fog Computing Framework for Intrusion Detection of Energy-Based Attacks on UAV-Assisted Smart Farming
Authors: Sajid Junaid , Hayawi Kadhim , Malik Asad Waqar , Anwar Zahid , Trabelsi Zouheir
Published: March 2023

Precision agriculture and smart farming have received significant attention due to the advancements made in remote sensing technology to support agricultural efficiency. In large-scale agriculture, the role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has increased in remote monitoring and collecting farm data at regular intervals. However, due to an open environment, UAVs can be hacked to malfunction and report false data. Due to limited battery life and flight times requiring frequent recharging, a compromised UAV wastes precious energy when performing unnecessary functions. Furthermore, it impacts other UAVs competing for charging times at the station, thus disrupting the entire data collection mechanism. In this paper, a fog computing-based smart farming framework is proposed that utilizes UAVs to gather data from IoT sensors deployed in farms and offloads it at fog sites deployed at the network edge. The framework adopts the concept of a charging token, where upon completing a trip, UAVs receive tokens from the fog node. These tokens can later be redeemed to charge the UAVs for their subsequent trips. An intrusion detection system is deployed at the fog nodes that utilize machine learning models to classify UAV behavior as malicious or benign. In the case of malicious classification, the fog node reduces the tokens, resulting in the UAV not being able to charge fully for the duration of the trip. Thus, such UAVs are automatically eliminated from the UAV pool. The results show a 99.7% accuracy in detecting intrusions. Moreover, due to token-based elimination, the system is able to conserve energy. The evaluation of CPU and memory usage benchmarks indicates that the system is capable of efficiently collecting smart-farm data, even in the presence of attacks.
Feasibility of Solar-Powered Groundwater Pumping Systems in Rural Areas of Greater Giyani Municipality (Limpopo, South Africa)
Authors: Jovanović Nebojša , Mpambo Mandelwa , Willoughby Alana , Maswanganye Eugene , Mazvimavi Dominic , Petja Brilliant , Molose Virginia , Sifundza Zanele , Phasha Kenny , Ngoveni Basani , Matanga Gondai , du Toit Derick
Published: March 2023

Rural areas in Limpopo Province (South Africa) are in urgent need of interventions for safe and secure water supply to adapt to climatic changes and the increased frequency of droughts. A feasibility study was conducted for the adoption of solar-powered groundwater pumping systems and Multiple Water Use Services (MUS) in Greater Giyani Municipality (Limpopo). Stakeholder engagement, geotechnical data and socio-economic information were used in the feasibility study. The Solar Powered Irrigation Systems (SPIS) tool (GIZ and FAO, 2021) was used to design solar-powered shallow groundwater pumping systems at nine case study sites: four villages (water supply for domestic use) and five small-scale farms. Given the technical design configurations, peak water requirements ranged from 28.8 to 58.9 m3/d, peak power requirements from 1.2 to 3.4 kWp and required solar panel surface areas from 8.0 to 22.3 m2. Viable financial mechanisms for the operation and maintenance of MUS are leasing, cooperatives, informal saving groups and pay-per-use. The adoption of the technology appears to be financially and technically viable to augment the water supply. However, groundwater levels will have to be monitored and water purification plants for drinking water will have to be established to ensure long-term sustainability.
Sand Rubber Mixtures under Oedometric Loading: Sand-like vs. Rubber-like Behavior
Authors: Badarayani Pravin , Cazacliu Bogdan , Ibraim Erdin , Artoni Riccardo , Richard Patrick
Published: March 2023

Each year, the number of scrap tires disposed of in huge piles across the world continuously increases. Consequently, new recycling solutions for these materials have to be proposed. Among them, one possibility consists of shredding tires and mixing the obtained tire chips with sand, which can be used as alternative soils in various geotechnical applications, such as backfilling for retaining structures, slope and highway embankment stabilization, road constructions, soil erosion prevention, and seismic isolation of foundations. Such types of mixtures are highly heterogeneous due to the important difference in elasticity and deformability between the two constituents, which leads to complex mechanical behavior. In this article, the one-dimensional loading/unloading behavior of sand-rubber mixtures is investigated by laboratory strain-controlled experiments performed for different packing densities, particle sizes, rubber contents, and sand/rubber size ratios. After a global analysis of the increase of the packing deformation with the rubber fraction and the stress level, a novel criterion to classify the behavior of the mixture as sand-like or rubber-like was proposed, based on the concavity of the void ratio—log of vertical stress curve. The concavity increased with the stress level and the rubber fraction, up to the limits where the saturation of the voids due to their filling with rubber induces a rubber-like behavior. A simplified phase diagram, limited to the range of this study, is proposed. The one-dimensional confined stiffness and the swelling behavior were also analyzed.
Color Stability of Nanoparticles-Modified Dental Resin-Based Composites
Authors: Al-Dulaijan Yousif A. , AlGhamdi Maram A. , Azmy Emad , Al-Kholy Mohamed Reda Zaki , Almulhim Khalid S. , Helal Mohamed A.
Published: March 2023

To evaluate the effect of beverages (coffee, tea, Cola-Cola, and mineral water) on the color stability of resin-based composite (RBC) materials modified with different nanoparticles (NPs). The specimens (70/beverage) were fabricated from light-cured RBCs and divided according to NPs into four groups: one control, unmodified (N0); and three experimental—ZrO2 (Zr), TiO2 (Ti), and SiO2 (Si) groups. Each experimental group was further subdivided into two subgroups according to NP concentrations: 3 wt.% and 7 wt.% (n = 10). A spectrophotometer was used to assess the color change (∆E) before and after six months of immersion. Data were analyzed and compared using one-way-ANOVA followed by Bonferroni’s post-hoc test (α = 0.05) and subsequently ∆E value conversion to National Bureau of Standards (NBS) units. The modified light-cured RBCs with ZrO2, TiO2, and SiO2 demonstrated smaller color changes after immersion in the beverages than the unmodified group (p < 0.001). Zr groups showed the lowest ΔE, followed by Ti and Si groups; a 3% concentration resulted in a lower mean ΔE than the 7% concentration. NBS findings showed that coffee and tea produced marked unacceptable color changes (NBS units were >3), and Coca-Cola resulted in noticeable color changes (NBS units between 1.5 and 3), while water produced slight color changes (NBS ≤ 1). Modification of RBCs with both concentrations of ZrO2, as well as 3% of TiO2 and SiO2, may improve its color stability. Based on NBS results, RBCs immersed in mineral water and Coca-Cola showed clinically acceptable color changes, while those immersed in coffee and tea were clinically unacceptable.
A High-Frequency Digitiser System for Real-Time Analysis of DC Grids with DC and AC Power Quality Triggering
Authors: Oliván Miguel A. , Pérez-Aragüés Juan J. , Melero Julio J.
Published: March 2023

The presence of DC grids in distribution networks is being increased nowadays and is expected to be quite relevant in a near future, due to several advantages compared to traditional AC systems. Regardless of this, Power Quality in DC grids (DC PQ) (voltage variations, transients, spectral components, etc.) still remains not properly considered and there is a lack of reference normative documents such as standards, application guides or technical reports for their application. In this context, it is necessary to obtain more experience on real measurements, in order to define appropriate DC PQ parameters and limits that assess a reliable operation of the whole power network and eventually lead to establishing a reference frame acceptable for both generation sources and final users. In this work, a novel high frequency (up to 4 MS/s) digitiser system is presented for the study of DC PQ events. The system is designed to acquire waveforms with triggers fired by events in both DC and AC signals. The captured signals are pre-processed in real-time to be able to recover pre-trigger information stored in memory. The system was installed in a real DC micro-grid and configured to take data in an unattended way. Additionally, the results of the first months of data acquisition are presented.
Deep Learning-Based Radiomics for Prognostic Stratification of Low-Grade Gliomas Using a Multiple-Gene Signature
Authors: Karabacak Mert , Ozkara Burak B. , Senparlak Kaan , Bisdas Sotirios
Published: March 2023

Low-grade gliomas are a heterogeneous group of infiltrative neoplasms. Radiomics allows the characterization of phenotypes with high-throughput extraction of quantitative imaging features from radiologic images. Deep learning models, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), offer well-performing models and a simplified pipeline by automatic feature learning. In our study, MRI data were retrospectively obtained from The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA), which contains MR images for a subset of the LGG patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Corresponding molecular genetics and clinical information were obtained from TCGA. Three genes included in the genetic signatures were WEE1, CRTAC1, and SEMA4G. A CNN-based deep learning model was used to classify patients into low and high-risk groups, with the median gene signature risk score as the cut-off value. The data were randomly split into training and test sets, with 61 patients in the training set and 20 in the test set. In the test set, models using T1 and T2 weighted images had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 73% and 79%, respectively. In conclusion, we developed a CNN-based model to predict non-invasively the risk stratification provided by the prognostic gene signature in LGGs. Numerous previously discovered gene signatures and novel genetic identifiers that will be developed in the future may be utilized with this method.
Research at the University of Padova in the Field of Space Debris Impacts against Satellites: An Overview of Activities in the Last 10 Years
Authors: Olivieri Lorenzo , Giacomuzzo Cinzia , Lopresti Stefano , Francesconi Alessandro
Published: March 2023

Space debris represent a threat to satellites in orbit around Earth. In the case of impact, satellites can be subjected to damage spanning from localized craterization to subsystem failure, to complete loss of the vehicle; large collision events may lead to fragmentation of the spacecraft. Simulating and testing debris impacts may help in understanding the physics behind these events, modelling the effects, and developing dedicated protection systems and mitigation strategies. In this context, the Space Debris group at the University of Padova investigates in-space collisions with experimental campaigns performed in a dedicated Hypervelocity Impact Facility and with numerical simulations with commercial and custom software. In this paper, an overview is given of the last 10 years of research activities performed at the University of Padova. First, the hypervelocity impact testing facility is described and the main experimental campaigns performed in the last few years are summarized. The second part of this work describes impact modelling research advances, focusing on the simulation of complex collision scenarios.
Elaboration of a Multi-Objective Optimization Method for High-Speed Train Floors Using Composite Sandwich Structures
Authors: Sahib Mortda Mohammed , Kovács György
Published: March 2023

The transportation industry needs lightweight structures to meet economic and environmental demands. Composite sandwich structures offer high stiffness and low mass, making them ideal for weight reduction in high-speed trains. The objective of this research is to develop a method of weight and cost optimization for floors of high-speed trains. The studied sandwich floor structure consists of Fiber Metal Laminates (FML) face sheets and a honeycomb core. Different variations of FMLs were investigated to define the optimal sandwich structure for minimum weight and cost. The Neighborhood Cultivation Genetic Algorithm (NCGA) was used to search the design space, and the Finite Element Method (FEM) was used to construct the optimal design of the train car floor panel. The FEM and optimization results had a maximum difference about 11%. The study concluded that using face sheets made entirely of Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) or Fiber Metal Laminates (FMLs) resulted in significant weight savings of approximately 62% and 32%, respectively, compared to a sandwich structure made entirely of aluminum, but a lighter structure was associated with higher cost. The main contribution of this study is the elaboration of a multi-objective optimization method that utilizes a wide range of constituent materials and structural components in order to construct weight- and cost-optimized sandwich structures.
Coplanar Capillary Plasma Electrode Discharge Flat-Panel Lamps Based on Porous Anodic Alumina
Authors: Wang Kun , Wang Shi-Qing , Li Jian , Dan Min , Jin Fan-Ya
Published: March 2023

A coplanar capillary plasma electrode discharge is a promising source owing to its superior performance. In this study, a coplanar capillary plasma electrode discharge flat-panel plasma lamp fabricated from porous anodic alumina and glass was designed to investigate its properties. Coplanar capillary plasma electrode discharge flat-panel lamps with porous anodic alumina dielectric layers were fabricated and investigated. Changing of the frequency and voltage of the power supply and altering of the thickness of the dielectric layers and the interval distance of the electrode were carried out to optimize the performance of the lamps by decreasing the spark-ignition voltage and enhancing the luminous efficacy. The luminance can exceed 7200 Cd/m2 and the white light flux efficacy is more than 4.92 lm/W. The discharge process of capillary plasma electrode discharge was modeled and simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics. The electron density and temperature were also analyzed. The results show that small plasma jets were produced at the pores of the porous anodic alumina, which helped stabilize the plasma. The voltage in the gas gap changes sharply with the geometry of the porous anodic alumina dielectric layer, leading to a higher electric field. The spark-ignition voltage decreased. Small plasma jets increase the plasma uniformity. The electron density and electron temperature reach approximately 1.94 × 108 m3 and 3.34 eV, respectively. A high electric field intensity produced at the porous anodic alumina validated the promising potential in related fields.
Assessment and Non-Destructive Evaluation of the Influence of Residual Solvent on a Two-Part Epoxy-Based Adhesive Using Ultrasonics
Authors: Seisdedos Gonzalo , Viamontes Edgar , Salazar Eduardo , Ontiveros Mariana , Pantea Cristian , Davis Eric S. , Rockward Tommy , McDaniel Dwayne , Boesl Benjamin
Published: March 2023

Polymers are increasingly being used in higher demanding applications due to their ability to tailor the properties of structures while allowing for a weight and cost reduction. Solvents play an important role in the manufacture of polymeric structures since they allow for a reduction in the polymer’s viscosity or assist with the dispersion of fillers into the polymer matrix. However, the incorrect removal of the solvent affects both the physical and chemical properties of polymeric materials. The presence of residual solvent can also negatively affect the curing kinetics and the final quality of polymers. Destructive testing is mainly performed to characterize the properties of these materials. However, this type of testing involves using lab-type equipment that cannot be taken in-field to perform in situ testing and requires a specific sample preparation. Here, a method is presented to non-destructively evaluate the curing process and final viscoelastic properties of polymeric materials using ultrasonics. In this study, changes in longitudinal sound speed were detected during the curing of an aerospace epoxy adhesive as a result of variations in polymer chemistry. To simulate the presence of residual solvent, samples containing different weight percentages of isopropyl alcohol were manufactured and tested using ultrasonics. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to show changes in the decomposition of the adhesive due to the presence of IPA within the polymer structure. Adding 2, 4, and 6 wt.% of IPA decreased the adhesive’s lap shear strength by 40, 58, and 71%, respectively. Ultrasonics were used to show how the solvent influenced the curing process and the final sound speed of the adhesive. Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio were determined using both the longitudinal and shear sound speeds of the adhesive. Using ultrasonics has the potential to non-invasively characterize the quality of polymers in both an in-field and manufacturing settings, ensuring their reliability during use in demanding applications.
A Novel Process Recommendation Method That Integrates Disjoint Paths and Sequential Patterns
Authors: Han Danni , Wang Chaoxue , Bian Genqing , Shao Bilin , Shi Tengteng
Published: March 2023

As the primary means of modern enterprise management, business process management (BPM) technology has become the mainstream development trend of modern enterprise management. The efficient and accurate establishment of business processes is essential for effective BPM. However, the traditional manual-based modeling approach is time-consuming and error-prone. To overcome this, process recommendation technology can improve the intelligence and efficiency of modeling to a certain extent. However, existing process modeling recommendation methods suffer from the problem of low accuracy and neglecting short-process models. Therefore, a novel process modeling recommendation method that integrates disjoint paths and sequential patterns was proposed. This method uses edge-disjoint paths for the first time to represent the behavioral semantics of processes, and an improved contiguous sequential pattern mining algorithm was proposed to mine the contiguous path sequential patterns (CPSPs) of edge-disjoint paths. In the process modeling recommendation stage, the k CPSPs with the highest matching degree with the current reference model process were calculated, and the last node in these CPSPs was used as the set of recommendation nodes. In cases with CPSPs with the same matching degree, the one with the higher value was recommended according to their corresponding lift, confidence, and support degrees. Through experimental evaluation and comparison, it was shown that the proposed method effectively improved the accuracy of the recommendation of both short-process and long-process models while ensuring effectiveness and time efficiency.
GeoAI: Integration of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning with GIS
Authors: Choi Yosoon
Published: March 2023

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become increasingly important in various fields such as urban planning, environmental management, transportation, and agriculture [...]
Sous-Vide as an Innovative and Alternative Method of Culinary Treatment of Chicken Breast in Terms of Product Quality and Safety
Authors: Kowalska Jolanta , Miarka Dorota , Marzec Agata , Ciurzyńska Agnieszka , Janowicz Monika , Galus Sabina , Kowalska Hanna
Published: March 2023

The main research objective of the work was to demonstrate that the low-temperature sous-vide method allows obtaining a culinary product with selected physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory properties that are more favorable compared to the corresponding features of the product obtained by conventional methods used in closed-type mass catering establishments, with the example of chicken breast. In addition, the aim was to demonstrate higher storage stability of culinary samples of chicken breast prepared by the sous-vide technique compared to samples prepared by conventional methods. The results confirm that the sous-vide method allows obtaining a product with the expected physical and chemical properties, comparable or even better with samples obtained by heat treatment methods, provided that high-quality raw materials and a high level of hygiene in the production process are used. Implementation of the innovative sous-vide method allows for extending the gastronomic offer of closed-type mass catering establishments with microbiologically safe dishes, desirable in sensory evaluation and stable during storage, which also allows for reducing the loss of prepared meals.