bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Thrips Damage Distribution in Mango Orchards Using a Novel Maximum Likelihood Classifier
Authors: Wang Linhui , Tang Yonghong , Liu Zhizhuang , Zheng Mianpeng , Shi Wangpeng , Li Jiachong , He Xiongkui
Published: April 2024

Thrips constitute the primary pest responsible for reducing mango yield and quality every year in Asia. Therefore, the efficient monitoring of thrips damage across mango orchards on a large scale to aid farmers in devising rational pesticide application strategies poses a significant challenge within the current mango industry. This study designs a mango thrips damage inversion prediction method based on the maximum likelihood classifier (MLC). Initially, drone multispectral remote sensing technology is utilized to acquire multispectral data from mango orchards, which are then combined with ground hyperspectral information to identify sensitive bands indicative of mango leaf damage caused by thrips. Subsequently, correlation analysis is conducted on various vegetation indices, leading to the selection of the Greenness Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI), which exhibits a strong correlation coefficient of 0.82, as the spectral characteristic parameter for the inversion prediction model. The construction of a remote sensing prediction model for thrips damage distribution in mango orchards is then undertaken based on the MLC. Acknowledging the bias-variance trade-off inherent in the MLC when processing spectral data and its potential limitations in feature extraction and robustness, this study proposes a modification wherein neighboring pixels are weighted differently to enhance the model’s feature extraction capabilities. Experimental results show that the novel MLC maintains stable estimation levels across various numbers of domain pixels, achieving an inversion accuracy of 91.23%. Through the reconstruction of the pixel matrix, the damage distribution of thrips in mango orchards can be swiftly and comprehensively visualized over extensive areas.
Effect of Different Nitrogen Levels on Water and Nitrate Distribution in Aeolian Sandy Soil under Drip Irrigation
Authors: Dou Chaoyin , Sun Yidi
Published: April 2024

Understanding the distribution of water and nitrate nitrogen in the soil profile is crucial for the reasonable operation of fertigation, and it is also fundamental for controlling and regulating nitrate nitrogen in the root zone, thereby meeting a crop’s requirements. The application rates of fertilizer and water directly influence this distribution of water and nitrate nitrogen. However, the effects in Aeolian sandy soil, a type of developing soil bordering deserts, remain ambiguous. In this study, field experiments for different drip fertigation treatments in Aeolian sandy soil were conducted to investigate the soil water distribution, as well as that of nitrate nitrogen. A completely randomized experimental design was implemented, encompassing three levels of irrigation amount: low (W1), medium (W2), and high (W3), and three levels of nitrogen application rate: low (F1), medium (F2), high (F3). After the completion of each irrigation treatment, soil samples were extracted at 10–20 cm intervals. The soil water and nitrate nitrogen contents in the profiles of these samples were measured. The experimental results revealed that increasing the nitrogen application rate facilitated the retention of greater amounts of water and nitrate nitrogen in the soil profile. However, with an increase in the nitrogen application rate, both soil water and nitrate nitrogen exhibited a radial tendency to move away from the drip emitter. Some moved upward and accumulated in surface soil near a ridge furrow, while some moved downward and remained in a deeper area approximately 30 cm horizontally from the emitter at depths of 40–60 cm. The uniformity of the water distribution decreased with increasing nitrogen application under low water conditions, with a reversal of this trend observed in medium and high water treatments. The effect of nitrogen application level on the uniformity of the nitrate nitrogen distribution was not significant. There was no significant correlation between the average soil water content and nitrate nitrogen content along the horizontal direction, however, a positive correlation existed in the vertical direction. In the whole profile, increasing the nitrogen application enhanced the correlation under low water conditions, but under medium and high water conditions, this trend was the opposite. This implies that, to avoid nitrate nitrogen leaching or limiting in a specific area, a moderate nitrogen application level is advisable. Under low water conditions, nitrogen application showed a positive effect on the nitrate nitrogen content, and a higher application is recommended. In cases of substantial water irrigation or rainy years, the nitrogen application rate should be decreased.
Creation of Bacterial Blight Resistant Rice by Targeting Homologous Sequences of Xa13 and Xa25 Genes
Authors: Zhu Yiwang , Yang Xiaohuai , Luo Peirun , Yan Jingwan , Cao Xinglan , Qian Hongge , Zhu Xiying , Fan Yujin , Mei Fating , Fan Meiying , Shang Lianguang , Wang Feng , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2024

Bacterial blight is a destructive disease in rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). Single resistance genes often have limitations in providing broad-spectrum resistance, as pathogens continuously evolve and vary. Breeding rice varieties with multiple disease resistance genes has proven to be an effective strategy for controlling bacterial blight. In this study, a single Cas9/gRNA construct was used to target the homologous sequences of Xa13 and Xa25 genes through destroying the target gene function, creating bacterial blight resistance in five rice varieties. These materials provide promising germplasm resources for the development of rice varieties with durable resistance to bacterial blight.
Innovative Fertiliser Based on Urea and Ammonium Nitrate Solution with Potassium Thiosulphate as a Crucial Factor in Shaping Plant Yield and Its Parameters
Authors: Wyszkowski Mirosław , Brodowska Marzena S. , Karsznia Monika
Published: April 2024

In the cultivation of crops in recent times, in addition to taking care of the balanced supply of nutrients to plants and the protection of soil resources, it is also important to take into account the non-productive factor by implementing production systems based on balanced fertilisation. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effect of soil kind and the application of a new fertiliser based on a urea and ammonium nitrate solution with potassium thiosulphate (UAN-KTS) on the yielding and biometric characteristics of spring wheat, spring rape, and maize to determine the optimal N:K:S ratio. An increase in the soil kind increased the weight of 1000 spring rape seeds, the yield of maize fresh matter, a reduction in the height of spring wheat and maize plants, a reduction in the yield of spring wheat grains and straw, and the yield of the fresh and dry matter of spring rape straw. A higher nitrogen dose promoted the growth of spring rape at the later growing stage and maize and had a positive effect on the yield of spring wheat grains and straw, spring rape seeds and straw, and the above-ground parts of maize. The application of potassium fertilisers caused a significant increase in the spring rape plant height, an increase in the yield of spring wheat grains and straw and spring rape seeds and straw, the above-ground parts of maize, a reduction in the plant height at the beginning of the spring wheat growing period, and a reduction in the weight of 1000 spring rape seeds (only on the soil with rich quality). The fertiliser with the N:K2:S2 ratio had a particularly favourable effect on the yielding of spring wheat. In the cultivation of maize, the same effect was most often obtained under the influence of fertiliser in the ratio of N:K1:S1 on the weaker soil fertilised at the same time as a higher dose of nitrogen (N 1) and N:K2:S2 (in other cases). In the case of spring rape, generally, fertiliser with N:K1:S1 was the strongest, although, in some objects, a higher yield was achieved under the influence of N:K2:S2. The existence of statistically confirmed correlations (expressed as the percentage of the variability observed) between the soil kind and the fertilisers applied and the yielding and biometric characteristics of the plants were observed.
Integrated Soil–Crop System Management Promotes Sustainability of Intensive Vegetable Production in Plastic Shed Systems: A Case Study in the Yangtze River Basin, China
Authors: Wu Gang , Liu Bin , Zhao Mingjiong , Liu Long , Wei Sujun , Yuan Manman , Wang Jiabao , Chen Xinping , Wang Xiaozhong , Sun Yixiang
Published: April 2024

Excessive fertilizer input, low nutrient use efficiency, soil quality, and environmental degradation hinder greenhouse vegetable production. Integrated agronomic strategies of soil, crop, and nutrient management are needed to sharply improve the vegetable yield and simultaneously maintain sustainable production. A three-season field experiment was conducted from 2015 to 2018, aiming to evaluate the effect of integrated soil–crop system management (ISSM) on the agronomy, environment, and economy of greenhouse vegetable systems in the Yangtze River Basin, China. Three treatments were included in the experiment: (1) farmers’ current practice (FP), based on a local farmers’ survey; (2) soil remediation treatment (SR), the application of soil conditioner and compost fertilizer instead of chicken manure; (3) ISSM, a combination of soil conditioner, reducing plant density, and using formula fertilizer as well as increasing the fertilization times. The results indicated that ISSM (47.7 Mg ha−1) improved the pepper yield by 17% relative to farmers’ current practice (FP, 40.7 Mg ha−1). Soil remediation (SR), as a single approach, mainly made a contribution to improving the yield (by 6.9%) and nutrient use efficiency while reducing apparent nitrogen (N) losses. Higher yields were mainly attributed to increasing the fruit number per plant. On average, apparent N losses were reduced by 245 kg N ha−1 per season for ISSM compared to FP. In addition, higher net profits were obtained under SR and ISSM relative to FP. Overall, both SR and ISSM have advantages for the agronomy, environment, and economy in greenhouse vegetable production, but ISSM would be the optimal choice to achieve higher yields with lower environmental impacts.
Dietary Peppermint Extract Inhibits Chronic Heat Stress-Induced Activation of Innate Immunity and Inflammatory Response in the Spleen of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Ma Dandan , Zhang Minhong , Feng Jinghai
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary peppermint extract (PE) on innate immunity and inflammatory responses in the spleen of broiler chickens under chronic heat stress. In order to further study the mechanism of the activation of innate immunity and inflammation induced by chronic heat stress and the regulatory effect of peppermint extract, we examined the spleen’s histological change, the mRNA expression of major pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) (TLR2, TLR4, NOD1, MDA5 and DAI) and transcription factors (NF-κB, AP-1 and IRF3) and downstream inflammatory cytokines (IFN-α, IFN-β, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) of innate immune signaling pathways associated with heat stress in the spleen of broiler chickens. The results indicated that chronic heat stress damaged the spleen tissue. In addition, chronic heat stress induced the activation of innate immunity and inflammatory responses by increasing the mRNA expression of TLR2, TLR4 and DAI, mRNA expression of transcriptional factors (NF-κB, AP-1 and IRF3) and the concentration of downstream inflammatory cytokines in the spleen of broiler chickens. Dietary peppermint extract alleviated the damage of spleen tissue caused by chronic heat stress. In addition, peppermint extract reduced the mRNA expression of DAI, mRNA expression of transcriptional factors NF-κB, AP-1 and IRF3, and the concentration of inflammatory cytokines in the spleen of broiler chickens under chronic heat stress. In conclusion, dietary peppermint extract could have a beneficial effect on regulating inflammatory response and innate immunity via inhibiting the activation of NF-κB, AP-1 and IRF3 signaling pathways mediated by DAI in the spleen of broiler chickens induced by chronic heat stress.
Differential Mitochondrial Genome Expression of Three Sympatric Lizards in Response to Low-Temperature Stress
Authors: He Jingyi , Zhan Lemei , Meng Siqi , Wang Zhen , Gao Lulu , Wang Wenjing , Storey Kenneth B. , Zhang Yongpu , Yu Danna
Published: April 2024

Ecological factors related to climate extremes have a significant influence on the adaptability of organisms, especially for ectotherms such as reptiles that are sensitive to temperature change. Climate extremes can seriously affect the survival and internal physiology of lizards, sometimes even resulting in the loss of local populations or even complete extinction. Indeed, studies have shown that the expression levels of the nuclear genes and mitochondrial genomes of reptiles change under low-temperature stress. At present, the temperature adaptability of reptiles has rarely been studied at the mitochondrial genome level. In the present study, the mitochondrial genomes of three species of lizards, Calotes versicolor, Ateuchosaurus chinensis, and Hemidactylus bowringii, which live in regions of sympatry, were sequenced. We used RT-qPCR to explore the level of mitochondrial gene expression under low-temperature stress, as compared to a control temperature. Among the 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), the steady-state transcript levels of ND4L, ND1, ATP6, and COII were reduced to levels of 0.61 ± 0.06, 0.50 ± 0.08, 0.44 ± 0.16, and 0.41 ± 0.09 in C. versicolor, respectively, compared with controls. The transcript levels of the ND3 and ND6 genes fell to levels of just 0.72 ± 0.05 and 0.67 ± 0.05 in H. bowringii, compared with controls. However, the transcript levels of ND3, ND5, ND6, ATP6, ATP8, Cytb, and COIII genes increased to 1.97 ± 0.15, 2.94 ± 0.43, 1.66 ± 0.07, 1.59 ± 0.17, 1.46 ± 0.04, 1.70 ± 0.16, and 1.83 ± 0.07 in A. chinensis. Therefore, the differences in mitochondrial gene expression may be internally related to the adaptative strategy of the three species under low-temperature stress, indicating that low-temperature environments have a greater impact on A. chinensis, with a small distribution area. In extreme environments, the regulatory trend of mitochondrial gene expression in reptiles is associated with their ability to adapt to extreme climates, which means differential mitochondrial genome expression can be used to explore the response of different lizards in the same region to low temperatures. Our experiment aims to provide one new research method to evaluate the potential extinction of reptile species in warm winter climates.
Immunostimulatory and Antibacterial Effects of Cannabis sativa L. Leaves on Broilers
Authors: Balenović Mirta , Janječić Zlatko , Savić Vladimir , Kasap Ante , Popović Maja , Šimpraga Borka , Sokolović Marijana , Bedeković Dalibor , Kiš Goran , Zglavnik Tihomir , Špoljarić Daniel , Krstulović Fani , Listeš Irena , Zelenika Tajana Amšel
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dried Cannabis sativa L. leaves as a phytogenic mixture added to broiler feed on CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocyte subpopulations, Newcastle disease virus (NDV) antibody titres, and the presence of E. coli in faecal samples. The study was conducted on 100 male Ross 308 broilers, divided into four groups of 25 broilers, for a 42-day research period. The groups were housed separately in boxes on a litter of softwood shavings and were fed starter mixture from day 1 to day 21 and finisher mixture from day 22 to day 42. Industrial hemp (C. sativa) was grown in the Crkvina area, Croatia (latitude: 45°18′46.8″ N; longitude: 15°31′30″ E). The hemp leaves were manually separated, sun-dried, and ground to a powder. The mixture offered to the control group did not contain cannabis leaves, whereas the three experimental groups received mixtures containing mixed cannabis leaves in a quantity of 10 g/kg, 20 g/kg, or 30 g/kg (E_10, E_20, and E_30, respectively). The mean NDV antibody level was uniform in all study groups until post-vaccination day 14 and increased comparably with time. The percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes in the peripheral blood subpopulation showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) in the E_20 group as compared with the control group and both the E_10 and E_30 groups throughout the study period. As the broiler age increased, the CD4+-to-CD8+ ratios also increased and were statistically significant (p < 0.0001) on day 42 in all experimental groups as compared to the control group. Comparing the control group with the experimental groups indicated that the bacterial count was lower in broiler groups having received feed with the addition of 20 g/kg and 30 g/kg C. sativa leaves. In conclusion, the C. sativa leaves were found to elicit a favourable immunomodulatory effect on cell-mediated and humoral immune responses in broilers via increased CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte subpopulations and higher CD4+:CD8+ cell ratios, thus indicating enhanced immune function capacity. In addition, C. sativa leaves may have complementary effects on the broiler post-vaccination immune response, increase broilers’ resistance to infectious diseases, reduce the effect of stress associated with vaccination, and improve broiler health and welfare.
Computed Tomographic Findings of Dental Disease and Secondary Diseases of the Head Area in Client-Owned Domestic Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus): 90 Cases
Authors: Borawski Wojciech , Kiełbowicz Zdzisław , Kubiak-Nowak Dominika , Prządka Przemysław , Pasternak Gerard
Published: April 2024

Domestic rabbits have teeth that grow throughout the animal’s life and are prone to disease. Clinical signs of dental disease in domestic rabbits are non-specific, and, therefore, a definitive diagnosis usually requires additional methods. This study was carried out on a group of 105 domestic rabbits aged 3 to 9 years. In total, 90 domestic rabbits with dental disease visible on CT images and other secondary diseases of the head area qualified for this study. Malocclusion was found in 57 (63.3%). Retrograde elongation of the tooth apices in the mandible was present in 39 (43.3%), and it was present in the maxilla in 48 (53%). Clinical tooth crowns were overgrown in 39 (43%). Dental abscesses were present in 54 (63%). Secondary to the presence of a dental abscess, osteomyelitis was found in 43 (79% of the animals with a dental abscess). Dental inflammatory resorption was found in 36 (40%). Secondary to dental disease, nasal cavity inflammation was found in 18 (20%). Otitis media was present in six (6.7%). The most common dental disease found in this study’s animals was malocclusion secondary to abnormal clinical crown abrasion and abnormal tooth growth. In domestic rabbits, osteomyelitis is a common complication of dental abscesses. Computed tomography is an invaluable diagnostic method in the diagnosis of dental disease and secondary diseases of the head area, such as inflammation of the nasal cavities or otitis media, in pet rabbits.
Prospective Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial of the Long-Term Effects of Omeprazole on Healthy Dogs
Authors: Gil-Vicente Laura , Martín Germán , Soler Carme , Vila Anna , Saiz María Rocío , Navarro Paula F.
Published: April 2024

The use of omeprazole as a preventive treatment for gastrointestinal ulcers in veterinary medicine has been questioned during previous years. The aim of the present study is to assess the long-term effect of omeprazole on cobalamin and serum gastrin levels in healthy dogs. Eighteen healthy dogs were included: 10 in the control group and 8 in the omeprazole group. Three samples were collected: before starting the treatment (T0), 30 days after the start of treatment (T1), and at 60 days (T2). The mean cobalamin value (ng/L) in the control group was 481.4 (±293.70) at T0, 481.4 (±170.21) at T1, and 513.2 (±174.50) at T2. In the omeprazole group, the values were 424.62 (±161.57) at T0, 454.5 (±160.96) at T1, and 414.87 (±127.90) at T2. No statistically significant changes were detected in cobalamin levels between the three-time period in both study groups. These results agree with previous findings in felines but contrast with human medicine studies. The median gastrin values (pg/mL) in the control group were 62.45 [30.17–218.75] at T0, 76.06 [30.67–199.87] at T1, and 63.02 [35.81–176.06] at T2. The median gastrin value in the omeprazole group was 67.59 [55.96–101.60] at T0, 191.77 [75.31–1901.77] at T1, and 128.16 [43.62–1066.46] at T2. Statistically significant differences were detected (p = 0.008), indicating an increase in gastrin levels after initiating treatment with omeprazole. In conclusion, the increased levels of gastrin observed in this population underscore the importance of conducting a comprehensive clinical assessment to identify potential gastrointestinal disorders, particularly in consideration of the usage of omeprazole as a preventive treatment.
Pharmacokinetics and Nephrotoxicity of Polymyxin MRX-8 in Rats: A Novel Agent against Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Qu Xingyi , Guo Chenxue , Liu Shaojun , Li Xin , Xi Lin , Liu Xiaofen , Zhang Jing
Published: April 2024

MRX-8 is a novel polymyxin for carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative infections that has been recently evaluated in Phase I clinical trials. Herein, its pharmacokinetics (PK) and nephrotoxicity in rats are reported for the first time. This study aimed at pre-clinical PK and safety assessments. An LC-MS/MS method was developed to determine concentrations of MRX-8 and its major deacylation metabolite, MRX-8039, in rat plasma. Animals were administered a single dose of MRX-8 (2, 4, 6, and 8 mg/kg) or comparator polymyxin B (PMB) (4 and 8 mg/kg) to compare the kidney injury known for the polymyxin drug class. Nephrotoxicity was evaluated using serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) biomarkers, and renal histopathology. In rats, MRX-8 displayed linear PK within the range of 2–8 mg/kg, with approximately 4% of MRX-8 converted to MRX-8039. MRX-8 induced only mild increases in serum creatinine and BUN levels, with an apparent decrease in nephrotoxicity within 24 h, in contrast to PMB, which exhibited a significant and more persistent toxicity. Additional nephrotoxicity biomarkers (plasma NGAL and urinary NGAL, KIM-1, and TIMP-1) have confirmed attenuated MRX-8 kidney injury. Histopathology has revealed significantly greater cellular/tissue toxicity for PMB as compared to MRX-8 (variances of p = 0.008 and p = 0.048 vs. saline control, respectively). Thus, MRX-8 induces a mild and reversible kidney injury in rats compared to PMB. These data support a continued evaluation of the novel polymyxin in human trials.
Antimicrobial Stewardship in the Emergency Department Observation Unit: Definition of a New Indicator and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Use and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Guisado-Gil Ana Belén , Mejías-Trueba Marta , Peñalva Germán , Aguilar-Guisado Manuela , Molina Jose , Gimeno Adelina , Álvarez-Marín Rocío , Praena Julia , Bueno Claudio , Lepe José Antonio , Gil-Navarro María Victoria , Cisneros José Miguel
Published: April 2024

We aimed to define a novel indicator for monitoring antimicrobial use specifically in the Emergency Department Observation Unit (EDOU) and to assess the long-term impact of an institutional education-based antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) on the antimicrobial prescribing pattern and clinical outcomes in this setting. A quasi-experimental interrupted time-series study was performed from 2011 to 2022. An educational ASP was implemented at the EDOU in 2015. To estimate changes in antimicrobial use, we designed an indicator adjusted for patients at risk of antimicrobial prescribing: defined daily doses (DDDs) per 100 patients transferred from the Emergency Department to the Observation Unit (TOs) per quarter. The number of bloodstream infections (BSIs) and the crude all-cause 14-day mortality were assessed as clinical outcomes. Antimicrobial use showed a sustained reduction with a trend change of −1.17 DDD per 100 TO and a relative effect of −45.6% (CI95% −64.5 to −26.7), particularly relevant for meropenem and piperacillin-tazobactam, with relative effects of −80.4% (−115.0 to −45.7) and −67.9% (−93.9 to −41.9), respectively. The incidence density of all BSIs increased significantly during the ASP period, with a relative effect of 123.2% (41.3 to 284.7). The mortality rate remained low and stable throughout the study period, with an absolute effect of −0.7% (−16.0 to 14.7). The regular monitoring of antimicrobial use in the EDOU by using this new quantitative indicator was useful to demonstrate that an institutional education-based ASP successfully achieved a long-term reduction in overall antimicrobial use, with a low and steady BSI mortality rate.
Change in Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori Infection in the Treatment-Failure Era
Authors: Spagnuolo Rocco , Scarlata Giuseppe Guido Maria , Paravati Maria Rosaria , Abenavoli Ludovico , Luzza Francesco
Published: April 2024

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a prevalent global health issue, associated with several gastrointestinal disorders, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. The landscape of H. pylori treatment has evolved over the years, with increasing challenges due to antibiotic resistance and treatment failure. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as the urea breath test, stool antigen test, and endoscopy with biopsy, are commonly used in clinical practice. However, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains has led to a decline in treatment efficacy, necessitating a re-evaluation of common diagnostic tools. This narrative review aims to explore the possible changes in the diagnostic approach of H. pylori infection in the era of treatment failure. Molecular techniques, including polymerase chain reaction and whole genome sequencing, which have high sensitivity and specificity, allow the detection of genes associated with antibiotic resistance. On the other hand, culture isolation and a phenotypic antibiogram could be used in the diagnostic routine, although H. pylori is a fastidious bacterium. However, new molecular approaches are promising tools for detecting the pathogen and its resistance genes. In this regard, more real-life studies are needed to reveal new diagnostic tools suitable for identifying multidrug-resistant H. pylori strains and for outlining proper treatment.
The Impact of Psychological Health on Childhood Obesity: A Cross-Developmental Stage Analysis
Authors: Feretzakis Georgios , Harokopou Athanasia , Fafoula Olga , Balaska Athina , Koulountzou Antriana , Katoikou Efstathia , Anastasiou Athanasios , Zagkavieros Georgios , Dalainas Ilias , Gkritzelas Georgios
Published: April 2024

This research ventures into the critical public health challenge of childhood obesity by exploring the dynamic interplay between psychological well-being and Body Mass Index (BMI) throughout various developmental stages of childhood. It delves into how emotional regulation, attachment dynamics, and social relationships correlate with obesity from early childhood to adolescence. Highlighting key findings, such as the negative correlation between psychological resilience and higher BMI in young children, the impact of social relationships on obesity risk during pre-adolescence, and the link between adaptive emotional strategies and higher BMI in adolescents, this study brings to the fore the nuanced relationship between psychological factors and obesity. Psychological metrics in this study were obtained via referenced questionnaires, leading up to the utilization of the interdisciplinary process of bioinformatics. Utilizing the interdisciplinary process of bioinformatics, this research synergizes psychometric and biomedical data to unearth psychological markers critical for crafting targeted, age-appropriate interventions. This study advocates for a holistic healthcare approach, emphasizing the integration of psychological support within obesity prevention and management strategies, thereby underscoring the indispensable role of psychological factors in the fight against childhood obesity. The application of bioinformatics methods to analyze complex datasets demonstrates how collaboration across medical specialties can enrich our understanding and response to childhood obesity, contributing significantly to the development of comprehensive, bioinformatics-enhanced healthcare solutions.
Mesh Characteristic Analysis of Spiral Bevel Gear Pairs Considering Assembly Errors and Tooth Tip Chipping Faults
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhang Juntao , Li Zhanwei , Liang Ruijun , Zhu Rupeng , Ma Hui
Published: April 2024

Due to machining errors, location inaccuracies, human error, and various other factors, it is challenging to avoid assembly errors during the production of spiral bevel gears (SBGs). When SBG assembly errors occur, it can cause the appearance of edge contact and may even lead to severe tooth tip chipping. In this study, we propose an improved method based on loaded tooth contact analysis (LTCA) to examine mesh characteristics, including time-varying mesh stiffness (TVMS), unloaded transmission error, and contact stress. Furthermore, we explore the effects of assembly errors and tooth tip chipping. Moreover, it is observed that assembly errors can alter the contact area of SBGs and potentially reduce the peak-to-peak value of TVMS. Additionally, the occurrence of tooth tip chipping decreases TVMS within the chipping region, lowers transmission error, and increases maximum contact stress. Notably, when assembly errors are present, the reduction in TVMS due to tooth tip chipping exceeds that of a properly assembled SBG pair.
PadGAN: An End-to-End dMRI Data Augmentation Method for Macaque Brain
Authors: Chen Yifei , Zhang Limei , Xue Xiaohong , Lu Xia , Li Haifang , Wang Qianshan
Published: April 2024

Currently, an increasing number of macaque brain MRI datasets are being made publicly accessible. Unlike human, publicly accessible macaque brain datasets suffer from data quality in diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) data. Typically, dMRI data require a minimum ratio of 1:10 between low b-value (b < 10) volumes and high b-value (b > 300) volumes. However, the currently accessible macaque datasets do not meet this ratio. Due to site differences in macaque brain images, traditional human brain image-to-image translation models struggle to perform well on macaque brain images. Our work introduces a novel end-to-end primary-auxiliary dual generative adversarial network (PadGAN) for generating low b-value images. The auxiliary generator in the PadGAN is responsible for extracting the latent space features from peak information maps and transmitting them to the primary generator, enabling the primary generator to generate images with rich details. Experimental results demonstrate that PadGAN outperforms existing methods both qualitatively and quantitatively (mean SSIM increased by 0.1139). Diffusion probabilistic tractography using dMRI data augmented by our method yields superior results.
A New Method for Evaluating the Reactive Strength Index in Track and Field Sprinting: Relationships with Muscle Architecture
Authors: Ciacci Simone , Nigro Federico , Bartolomei Sandro
Published: April 2024

The aim of the present study was to assess a new reactive strength index (RSI RUN) based on contact time and stride length measured in sprint running and then to correlate this index with sprint performance, muscle architecture and echo intensity of the vastus lateralis. Participants included ten elite and sub-elite sprinters (age 24.4 ± 3.1 years, height 177.5 ± 7.7 cm, mass 69.8 ± 11.7 kg) who were tested with a vertical drop jump (VDJ) and a horizontal drop jump (HDJ) from a 30 cm high box, a 20 m straight-leg running drill (SLR) and a 60 m sprint. A nearly perfect correlation (r = from −0.90 to −0.96, p < 0.01) was detected between RSI RUN and sprint performance (30 m, 60 m and 100 m sprint time), and a very large correlation (r = from −0.72 to −0.77, p < 0.05) was found between the traditional RSI from vertical drop jump (RSIDJV) and sprint performance. In addition, the RSI RUN was more correlated to sprint performance than other RSI indices studied in previous research. The echo intensity of the vastus lateralis (VLEI) was largely correlated with maximum running speed (r = from 0.76 to 0.87, p < 0.05) and the RSI RUN (r = −0.80, p < 0.05). No significant correlations were noted between echo intensity and other RSIs. In conclusion, the RSI RUN and VLEI seem to be good predictors for track and field sprinting performance.
Research on Brake Energy Recovery Strategy Based on Working Condition Identification
Authors: Zheng Weiguang , Li Haiqiao , Li Jun
Published: April 2024

As a transitional vehicle between fuel and electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles achieve energy savings and emission reductions without range anxiety. Regenerative braking has a direct impact on the fuel consumption of the whole vehicle; however, the current regenerative braking strategy for commercial vehicles is not yet perfect and has a poor adaptability in terms of working conditions and whole-vehicle load changes. Therefore, this paper proposes a regenerative braking strategy based on the identification of working conditions, by considering the influence of the vehicle load state and driving conditions on braking. Firstly, historical driving data of commercial vehicles were obtained from GPS data, driving conditions were classified using principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means, and a working condition recogniser was constructed using a back propagation neural network (BPNN) optimised with the Coati optimisation algorithm (COA). The recognition accuracy of the COA-BPNN was 7.6% better than that of the BPNN. Secondly, front and rear axle braking force distribution strategies are proposed, according to the braking intensity magnitude and load state under empty-, half-, and full-load conditions. Finally, a genetic algorithm (GA) was used to find the optimal control parameters for each category of working conditions, and the COA-BPNN condition recogniser identified the current category of working conditions needed to retrieve the corresponding optimal control parameters in the offline parameter library. The simulation results under C-WTVC and synthetic conditions show that the energy recovery rate of the proposed strategy in this paper reached up to 69.65%, which is at most 206.3% higher than that of the fixed-ratio strategy and at most 37.4% higher than that of the fuzzy control strategy.
Computational Analysis and Classification of Hernia Repairs
Authors: Charvátová Hana , East Barbora , Procházka Aleš , Martynek Daniel , Gonsorčíková Lucie
Published: April 2024

Problems related to ventral hernia repairs (VHR) are very common, and evaluating them using computational methods can assist in selecting the most appropriate treatment. This study is based upon data from 3339 patients from different European countries observed during the last 12 years (2012–2023), which were collected by specialists in hernia surgery. Most patients underwent standard surgical procedures, with a growing trend towards laparoscopic surgery. This paper focuses on statistically evaluating the treatment methods in relation to patient age, body mass index (BMI), and the type of repair. Appropriate mathematical methods are employed to extract and classify the selected features, with emphasis on computational and machine-learning techniques. The paper presents surgical hernia treatment statistics related to patient age, BMI, and repair methods. The main conclusions point to mean groin hernia repair (GHR) complications of 19% for patients in the database. The accuracy of separating GHR mesh surgery with and without postoperative complications reached 74.4% using a two-layer neural network classification. Robotic surgeries represent 22.9% of all the evaluated hernia repairs. The proposed methodology suggests both an interdisciplinary approach and the utilization of computational intelligence in hernia surgery, potentially applicable in a clinical setting.
Study on Oscillatory and Undulatory Motion of Robotic Fish
Authors: Nam Anh Phan Huy , Choi Hyeung-Sik , Huang Jiafeng , Zhang Ruochen , Kim Jihoon
Published: April 2024

This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of undulating and oscillatory movements in fish, utilizing numerical simulations to explore correlations among fin thrust and swimming speed. The study distinguishes itself through a unique approach by employing kinematic equations of motion control, specifically in oscillation and undulation, for computational fluid dynamics. Despite increasing energy loss with undulation, the study reveals a reduction in power demand with oscillation, underscoring its effectiveness in achieving desired speeds. The dynamics of undulating fins in aquatic and aerial locomotion remain insufficiently understood. The trade-off between more energy-consuming but highly propulsive movements or simpler and faster movements requires sophisticated design techniques to reduce volume. The geometry, developed using Rhino 6 software, incorporates precise fluid resistance calculations conducted with Ansys Fluent 19. Spanning flow velocities from 1 to 4 m/s were used for the simulation condition. Critical factors such as flexibility, viscosity, and shape change were meticulously examined for their impact on efficiency enhancement.
Prediction of Tensile Properties in Inconel 625 Superalloy Fabricated by Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing Using Improved Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Xu Defang , Lu Zhenhui , Chen Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: April 2024

This study exhibits the possibility of using an artificial neural network (ANN) to model the mechanical behavior of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) for Inconel 625. For this reason, tensile tests of Inconel 625 superalloy as-built (AB) samples and samples after heat treatment at 1200 °C (HT-1200) by WAAM were performed. For the HT-1200 samples, the yield stress decreased, and the elongation increased significantly due to grain refinement and the formation of annealed twins. A new hybrid model combining a swarm intelligence optimization algorithm with a back propagation neural network (BPNN) was developed to simulate the flow behavior of the superalloy. Compared with other hybrid BPNN models that have been reported, the proposed BPNN model is in better agreement with the experimental data and provides a better description of the flow stress of the Inconel 625 superalloy. The excellent predictive ability of the model may be attributed to the optimization of the weights and thresholds of the BPNN, which obtains the optimal global solution in the search space more efficiently.
Discerning Reality through Haze: An Image Dehazing Network Based on Multi-Feature Fusion
Authors: Wang Shengchun , Wang Sihong , Jiang Yue , Zhu Huijie
Published: April 2024

Numerous single-image dehazing algorithms have been developed, employing a spectrum of techniques ranging from intricate physical computations to state-of-the-art deep-learning methodologies. However, conventional deep-learning approaches, particularly those based on standard convolutional neural networks (CNNs), often result in the persistence of residual fog patches when applied to images featuring high fog concentration or heterogeneous fog distribution. In response to this challenge, we propose an innovative solution known as the multi-feature fusion image dehazing network (MFID-Net). This approach employs an end-to-end methodology to directly capture the mapping relationship between hazy and fog-free images. Central to our approach is the introduction of a novel multi-feature fusion (MF) module, strategically designed to address channel and pixel characteristics in regions with uneven or high fog concentrations. Notably, this module achieves effective haze reduction while minimizing computational resources, thereby mitigating the issue of residual fog patches. Experimental results underscore the superior performance of our algorithm compared to similar dehazing methods, as evidenced by higher scores in structural similarity (SSIM), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), and computational velocity. Moreover, MFID-Net exhibits significant advancements in restoring details within expansive monochromatic areas, such as skies and white walls.
Measurement and Analysis of Last-Mile Parcel Delivery Truck Vibration Levels in Korea
Authors: Kim Saewhan , Horvath Laszlo , Lee Soohyung , Lee Sangwook
Published: April 2024

South Korea has one of the largest e-commerce markets in the world. The last-mile delivery segment of e-commerce often causes critical damage to products in protective packages. Despite the rapid growth of the e-commerce market in Korea, the last-mile distribution environment has not yet been thoroughly investigated. The main aim of this study was to provide an understanding of the vibration levels that were measured from various parcel delivery routes within Seoul, Korea, using common types of parcel delivery trucks. Vibration levels of ten delivery trucks were measured and analyzed in terms of power spectral densities (PSDs) and presented as PSD spectra. The last-mile delivery vehicle vibration levels in Korea were found to be consistently lower (in the 1 to 200 Hz frequency range) than those recommended by international standards and lower than the vibration levels of parcel delivery vehicles in the U.S. and Hungary. The results also revealed that the highest intensity peak of the PSD spectrum for Korea was located in the lower frequency range (1.5 to 2 Hz) compared to the ISTA 3A pickup and delivery test profile (3 to 4 Hz) and the test profile recommended for Hungary (13 to 16 Hz). A smoothed composite spectrum was also provided to support Korean packaging engineers in optimizing their packages by simulating proper last-mile truck delivery vibration levels in lab conditions.
Beamforming for the Successive Relaying-Based Cooperative Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access Transmission
Authors: Hwang Duckdong , Nam Sung Sik , Yang Janghoon , Song Hyoung-Kyu
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a set of cooperative non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) transmission schemes is proposed, in which two half-duplex relaying user terminals (UTs) successively deliver the AP signals toward two NOMA UTs. The successive relaying (SR) of two HD relays emulates the full-duplex (FD) relaying transmission such that the whole transmission of one data block is finished in one time slot. Different from FD relaying, where the removal of self-interference (SI) at the relay is challenging, the SR is suffering from cross-relay interference (CRI) between the two HD relays and the handling of this CRI is the key technical challenge. This CRI suppression is implemented by beamforming with multiple antennas at the relaying UTs, while the beamforming also does the role of maximizing the NOMA transmission efficiency. Two beamforming schemes are proposed, where the first method employs semi-definite relaxation (SDR) with four dimensional (4-D) search. Here, the four dimensions come from the four parameters reflecting the CRI levels at the relaying UTs and signal strengths at the NOMA UTs. This scheme alternates until the 4-D search range is reduced and the sum throughput rate saturates. The second method is computationally simpler than the first one since it avoids the SDR and alternation, and it finds the beamformer set in one shot calculation. Both schemes rely on zero forcing of the CRI. These two schemes along with the HDR relay-based cooperative NOMA scheme are compared in the numerical experiments, and the results exhibit their pros and cons in several aspects.
Influence of Monolith Length on Temperature Field of Concrete Gravity Dams
Authors: Mirković Uroš , Kuzmanović Vladan , Todorović Goran
Published: April 2024

This paper examines the influence of monolith length on the temperature field of concrete gravity dams built using the block method. The developed 3D model is capable of conducting a thermal analysis of a 95.0 m high concrete gravity dam built using the block method, where each newly cast block represents a new analysis phase. The calculation accounts for the period of construction, the filling of the reservoir, and the service for a total duration of about 5 years. The thermal properties of the material, the influence of cement hydration heat, the temperature of the surrounding rock mass, the temperature of the fresh concrete mixture, and the corresponding boundary conditions defining a heat transfer were taken into account. The height and width of the blocks, as well as the sequence of concreting, were considered invariable, while the length of the blocks (dimension in the direction of the dam’s axis equal to the monolith length) varied, with values of 10.0, 12.5, 15.0, and 20.0 m. The obtained calculation results for the control nodes showed that the maximum reduction in the monolith length (from 20.0 m to 10.0 m) caused a decrease in the maximum temperature values of the concrete (from 1.6 to 3.4 °C, depending on the control node). Also, the results showed that, by reducing the length of the monolith, there was a delay in the moment at which the maximum temperature values of the concrete appeared in the selected control node. The delay in reaching the maximum, in relation to the 10.0 m long monolith, was from 7 days (for points on the crest dam) to 49 days (for points in the central zone of the monolith) for the other considered monolith lengths. The above indicates the importance of concrete temperature control for longer monoliths, especially during construction in extreme air temperatures. The main contribution of the conducted analysis is the development of insight into temperature field changes depending on monolith length, which can help engineers during the design and construction of new, as well as the maintenance of existing, dams.
SupCon-MPL-DP: Supervised Contrastive Learning with Meta Pseudo Labels for Deepfake Image Detection
Authors: Moon Kyeong-Hwan , Ok Soo-Yol , Lee Suk-Hwan
Published: April 2024

Recently, there has been considerable research on deepfake detection. However, most existing methods face challenges in adapting to the advancements in new generative models within unknown domains. In addition, the emergence of new generative models capable of producing and editing high-quality images, such as diffusion, consistency, and LCM, poses a challenge for traditional deepfake training models. These advancements highlight the need for adapting and evolving existing deepfake detection techniques to effectively counter the threats posed by sophisticated image manipulation technologies. In this paper, our objective is to detect deepfake videos in unknown domains using unlabeled data. Specifically, our proposed approach employs Meta Pseudo Labels (MPL) with supervised contrastive learning, so-called SupCon-MPL, allowing the model to be trained on unlabeled images. MPL involves the simultaneous training of both a teacher model and a student model, where the teacher model generates pseudo labels utilized to train the student model. This method aims to enhance the adaptability and robustness of deepfake detection systems against emerging unknown domains. Supervised contrastive learning utilizes labels to compare samples within similar classes more intensively, while encouraging greater distinction from samples in dissimilar classes. This facilitates the learning of features in a diverse set of deepfake images by the model, consequently contributing to the performance of deepfake detection in unknown domains. When utilizing the ResNet50 model as the backbone, SupCon-MPL exhibited an improvement of 1.58% in accuracy compared with traditional MPL in known domain detection. Moreover, in the same generation of unknown domain detection, there was a 1.32% accuracy enhancement, while in the detection of post-generation unknown domains, there was an 8.74% increase in accuracy.