bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Animal Husbandry: Present and Future
Authors: Kistanova Elena , Yotov Stanimir , Zaimova Darina
Published: May 2024

The main priorities in the contemporary breeding of different animal species have been directed toward the use of intelligent approaches for accelerating genetic progress, ensuring animal welfare and environmental protection by reducing the release of manure and gas emissions [...]
Efficacy of Salvia officinalis Shrub as a Sustainable Feed Additive for Reducing Ruminal Methane Production and Enhancing Fermentation in Ruminants
Authors: Kholif Ahmed E. , Rahman Md Atikur , Abo El-Nor Salah A. H. , Morsy Tarek A. , Gouda Gouda A. , Fahmy Mahmoud , Chahine Mireille
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of dried Salvia officinalis (SO) shrub leaves on nutrient degradability, ruminal in vitro fermentation, gas production (GP), methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2) productions. Dried and ground SO shrub leaves were included at 0% (control), 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% DM of a diet consisting of (per kg DM) 500 g concentrate feed mixture, 400 g berseem hay, and 100 g rice straw. The diet was incubated for 48 h. The asymptotic GP and the rate of GP changed linearly and quadratically (p < 0.01), with the highest GP observed at 1% inclusion of SO and then decreasing thereafter with greater inclusion (i.e., 1.5% and 2%), while CH4 production and its rate decreased linearly (p < 0.01) with all levels of SO inclusion. A linear increase in CO2 production and its rate was also found with an increasing level of SO inclusion in the diet (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the degradability of DM, NDF, and the concentration of total short-chain fatty acids and acetate changed linearly and quadratically, with the greatest being found at 1% SO inclusion and then steadily declining after (p < 0.01) with the 1.5% and 2% inclusion levels. Meanwhile, the propionate, NH3-N, and microbial crude protein levels showed similar trends, with the plateau found at 1% inclusion of SO, where there was no change in butyrate concentration. Moreover, the pH, metabolizable energy, and partitioning factor (PF24) also changed linearly and quadratically (p < 0.05), where the pH and PF24 were considerably reduced and ME increased with a 1% inclusion of SO (p < 0.05). In summary, SO at 1% inclusion in the diet showed the potential to improve gas production kinetics, nutrient degradability, and the ruminal fermentation profile, with a more significant reduction in ruminal CH4 production suggesting that SO at 1% could be included in the ruminant diet to reduce their carbon footprint and increase the production performance.
Feathered Lectures—Evidence of Perceptual Factors on Social Learning in Kea Parrots (Nestor notabilis)
Authors: Gudenus Lucie Marie , Wein Amelia , Folkertsma Remco , Schwing Raoul
Published: May 2024

Social learning describes the acquisition of knowledge through observation of other individuals, and it is fundamental for the development of culture and traditions within human groups. Although previous studies suggest that Kea (Nestor notabilis) benefit from social learning, experimental evidence has been inconclusive, as in a recent two-action task, all perceptual factors were ignored. The present study attempts to address this by investigating social learning in Kea with a focus on social enhancement processes. In an experiment with a captive group of Kea, we investigated whether individuals that had the opportunity to observe a conspecific performing a simple task subsequently show better performance in that task than a control group without prior demonstration. This study provides a strong tendency of greater success in skill acquisition in Kea as a result of social learning. Kea that observed a conspecific solving a task showed clear evidence of perceptual factors drawing attention to the relevant parts of the experimental apparatus and manipulated these significantly more (100% of trials) than control birds (77.8% of trials). Combined with a strong trend (p = 0.056) of the test subjects solving the task more than the control subjects, this shows conclusively that Kea, at least when required to solve a task, do attend to perceptual factors of a demonstrated action.
Impact of Long-Term Supplementation with Probiotics on Gut Microbiota and Growth Performance in Post-Weaned Piglets
Authors: Park Soo-Yeon , Kim Yo-Han , Kim Sung-Jae , Han Jeong-Hee
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate effects of long-term probiotic supplementation on gut microbiota and growth performance in health weaned piglets. The non-probiotic group (N-PrB) was fed only a basal diet, while the probiotic group (PrB) was fed a basal diet + probiotic combination (E. faecium 1.6 × 108 CFU/g, B. subtilis 2.0 × 108 CFU/g, S. cerevisiae 3.0 × 108 CFU/g). The probiotics combination was provided to the PrB, mixing with the basal diet in 5 kg/ton. As a result, the PrB exhibited significantly improved weight gain compared to the N-PrB (p = 0.00991). In the gut microbiome analysis, the PrB exhibited a significant increasing tendency of α-diversity compared to those of the N-PrB (p < 0.01). In the bacterial relative abundance changes in bacteria comprising the gut microbiota, Ruminococcaceae (p = 0.00281) and Prevotella (p = 0.00687) tended to significantly increase in the PrB, but decreased in the N-PrB. The Eubaterium coprostanoligenes group exhibited an increasing tendency in both groups, but tended to increase more significantly in the PrB compared to the N-PrB (p = 0.00681). Muribaculaceae tended to significantly increase in the N-PrB, but decreased in the PrB (p = 0.002779). In this study, significant differences on the gut microbiome were found according to the probiotics supplementation in the weaned piglets and these gut microbiome changes appeared to improve the growth performance.
Changes in the Morphology and Antioxidant Status of European Red Deer Sperm Stored in the Epididymides and in a Liquid State
Authors: Neuman Nicoletta M. , Orzołek Aleksandra , Steiner-Bogdaszewska Żaneta , Dziekońska Anna
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the motility, morphology, and antioxidant status of European red deer sperm stored in a liquid state (variant I) and in the epididymides (variant II). Spermatozoa were harvested post-mortem from the cauda epididymis. Sperm samples in both variants were stored for up to six days (D6) at 5 °C. Spermatozoa were assessed for motility, viability, morphology, activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD; glutathione peroxidase, GPx; catalase, CAT), and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde, MDA, content). Sperm samples were analyzed on storage days 0, 2, 4, and 6 (D0-D6). Storage time and storage method significantly (p ≤ 0.05) influenced the examined variables. On D2, a decrease in motility and acrosomal integrity was observed in both storage variants, whereas a decrease in viability and an increase in MDA content were noted in spermatozoa stored in the epididymides. On D4, higher values of SOD and GPx activity and MDA content were noted in variant I than in variant II. Catalase activity was very low. GPx is the key enzyme that participates in the reduction of hydrogen peroxide in sperm cells. Spermatozoa stored in a liquid state were characterized by higher motility and viability, improved morphology and antioxidant status than those stored in the epididymides; therefore, liquid storage is more recommended for short-term preservation of epididymal spermatozoa.
Antibiotic Resistance Trends in Uropathogens during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Western Romania: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hogea Elena , Muntean Alexandra Cristina , Bratosin Felix , Bogdan Iulia Georgiana , Plavitu Oana , Fratutu Adelina , Oancea Cristian , Bica Mihai Calin , Muntean Delia , Hrubaru Ingrid , Popa Zoran Laurentiu , Ilie Adrian Cosmin
Published: May 2024

The emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance have been significant global health challenges, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As healthcare systems faced unprecedented pressures, the management of non-COVID conditions, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), also encountered obstacles due to changes in microbial flora and antibiotic usage patterns. This cross-sectional study aimed to characterize the antimicrobial resistance trends among bacterial uropathogens isolated from patients in the Western region of Romania, between January 2020 and December 2022. The objectives were to map the resistance patterns and observe the pandemic’s influence on antimicrobial resistance, particularly among enterobacterial Gram-negative species, to guide treatment and infection control strategies. From a total of 2472 urine samples collected during the study period, 378 positive samples were analyzed. This study found that Escherichia coli was the most commonly isolated uropathogen, making up 46.3% of the cases (n = 175), with Klebsiella pneumoniae at 20.6% (n = 78). There was a high resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniae to several antibiotics, while carbapenemase production increased to 52.5% and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) present in 24.3% of the strains. Escherichia coli showed high resistance rates to amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (from 45.4% in 2020 to 53.8% in 2022) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (from 27.5% in 2020 to 47.2% in 2022). The increasing trend of antimicrobial resistance noted during the pandemic, especially in Gram-negative enterobacterial species, highlights the urgent need for robust infection control measures and rational antibiotic use. This study underscores the critical importance of continuous surveillance to adapt antibiotic therapies effectively and prevent the further spread of resistance, thereby ensuring effective management of UTIs in the evolving healthcare landscape influenced by the pandemic.
The Clinical Characteristics and Antimicrobial Resistance of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Patients with Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS) in Southwestern China
Authors: Wu Yidan , Wu Hengfeng , Wu Man , Wei Wanchen , Wei Yuying , Li Tiantian , Cao Cunwei , Yao Zhijian
Published: May 2024

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a rare, toxin-mediated, desquamating bacterial infectious dermatosis. So far, data from Southwestern China is scarce. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of SSSS patients in our hospital, the relative proportion of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in skin and soft tissue secretions, and the drug sensitivity of S. aureus to better assist dermatologists in the diagnosis and treatment of SSSS. We reviewed the demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, treatment regimens, therapeutic efficacy, laboratory test results, drug sensitivity, and outcome data of 79 SSSS patients from January 2012 to December 2021. Statistical analysis was performed using t tests and chi-square tests. Among the 79 SSSS patients, MRSA was detected in 35 (44.3%) isolates: 34 community-acquired (CA)-MRSA (97.1%) and 1 hospital-acquired (HA)-MRSA. The SSSS incidence increased annually from 2012 to 2014 and then decreased gradually after peaking in 2015. All the isolates were sensitive to vancomycin, tigecycline, linezolid, moxifloxacin, levofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin; were completely resistant to penicillin; and had low sensitivity to clindamycin and erythromycin. Interestingly, the sensitivity of MRSA to tetracycline increased annually after 2015. The resistance rates to common drugs previously used to treat SSSS increased. These findings may accelerate diagnosis and improve empirical antibiotic use, suggesting that clinicians should prescribe drugs according to antimicrobial susceptibility.
Identification Model of Fault-Influencing Factors for Dam Concrete Production System Based on Grey Correlation Analysis
Authors: Zhou Huawei , Mi Tonghao , Zhao Chunju , Liang Zhipeng , Fang Tao , Wang Fang , Zhou Yihong
Published: May 2024

A concrete production system (CPS) fault in dam engineering is one of the important factors influencing dam construction quality, which may directly affect the concrete-pouring construction progress and construction efficiency of the dam, and can even cause construction quality defects in the dam body. Reasonable classification and identification are of great significance to ensure the construction progress and quality of concrete dams. In this study, based on the concrete production logs of multiple concrete dams and literature reviews, a fault classification system for a CPS is proposed by comprehensively considering its mechanical structure characteristics and operating characteristics. The faults of the CPS are divided into 4 large categories and 22 subcategories. Additionally, the causes of CPS faults are summarized as human factors, environmental factors, mechanical component service life factors, and other factors. Based on the grey correlation analysis (GCA) method, a fault identification model of the CPS is established. With the actual production system fault statistical data of Shatuo hydropower station, the correlation coefficients for the four types of faults and the four influencing factors are calculated to determine the key faults of the CPS. The research results of the case study show that the service life factors of mechanical components have the greatest impact on batching metering system faults and mixer faults, with high grey correlation degrees of 84.66% and 76.85%, respectively. Environmental factors have the greatest impact on material delivery system faults and pneumatic system faults, with high grey correlation degrees of 90.81% and 94.9%, respectively. This paper provides theoretical support for the realization of fault pattern recognition of CPSs and provides a guiding reference for targeted fault handling.
Exploring Sustainable Learning Intentions of Employees Using Online Learning Modules of Office Apps Based on User Experience Factors: Using the Adapted UTAUT Model
Authors: Wang Siqin , Nah Ken
Published: May 2024

Research on the information module has identified a range of factors in the adoption model that determine their intention to learn sustainably. This research investigates the determinants of employees’ intentions to use an online learning module within an office application, utilizing a modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. Data were collected from 564 employees in different organizations and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The research examines correlations between four key determinants—performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions—and eight user experience motivational factors, including career development, business needs, self-management, learning experience, company atmosphere, external pressure, company support, and course quality. The findings indicate that all four UTAUT determinants significantly support employees’ use of the online learning module for continuous learning. Performance expectancy is positively influenced by career development and business needs, effort expectancy by self-management, social influence by external pressure, and facilitating conditions by company support and course quality. The learning experience and company atmosphere showed no significant correlation. The study offers valuable insights for managers, investors, and developers to enhance the adoption of online learning modules, promoting sustainable learning and employee development.
Seismic Response Analysis of Underground Large Liquefied Natural Gas Tanks Considering the Fluid–Structure–Soil Interaction
Authors: Jin Guolong , Zhang Yonglai , Zhao Mingrui , Xie Xiongyao , Li Hongqiao
Published: May 2024

The seismic response of underground liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage tanks has been a significant focus in both academic and engineering circles. This study utilized Ansys (2021R1) to conduct seismic analyses of large-capacity LNG tanks, considering the fluid–structure–soil coupling interaction (FSSI), and it was solved using the Volume of Fluid model (VOF) and Finite Element Method (FEM). The mechanical properties of both the LNG tank structure and soil were simulated using solid elements, and seismic acceleration loads were applied. An analysis of liquefied natural gas was performed using fluid elements within FLUENT. Initially, a modal analysis of the tank was conducted, which revealed lower frequencies for a full-liquid tank (3.193 Hz) compared to an empty tank (3.714 Hz). Subsequently, the seismic responses of both the aboveground and underground LNG tank structures were separately simulated, comparing the acceleration, stress, and displacement of the tank wall structures. The findings indicate that the peak relative displacement of the aboveground empty tank wall is 122 mm, less than that of a full tank (136 mm), while the opposite holds true for underground tanks. The period and wave height of LNG liquid shaking in underground tanks are lower than those in aboveground tanks, which is more conducive to tank safety. The deformation and acceleration of underground tanks are lower than those of aboveground tanks, but the Mises stress is higher. The results indicate that underground LNG tank structures are safer under earthquake conditions.
An Analysis of the 2008 Ms 8.0 Wenchuan Earthquake’s Aftershock Activity
Authors: Wu Haoyu , Xu Weijin , Wang Xia
Published: May 2024

We investigated the magnitude–frequency relationship and decay pattern of an aftershock sequence using data from the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. We analyzed the spatial variations in aftershock activity parameters b and p. The calculated b-value of the aftershock sequence is 0.89 ± 0.02, which is relatively small, probably owing to the absence of small earthquakes in the aftershock catalog. The p-value, indicating the decay rate of aftershock activity, is 1.05 ± 0.02, which is normal. The decay pattern of the Wenchuan aftershock sequence agrees well with the modified Omori law. The b-value of the aftershock sequence mainly spatially varies between 0.6 and 1.2, and the p-value varies between 0.6 and 1.8. Although the physical significance of the spatial variations in b- and p-values has not been clearly defined, in this study, the physical significance of the b-value is mainly related to changes in stress, P-wave velocity, and the density of media in the earthquake area, and that in the p-value is associated with the fault slip amount during the mainshock; the b- and p-values show a strong linear correlation. After the mainshock, stress decreased and increased in areas with large and small b-values, respectively; the regions with large and small b-values were associated with low and high P-wave velocities, respectively. The subsurface media experienced relatively high and low apparent velocities in areas with small and large b-values, respectively. The amount of fault slip was small and large in regions with small and large p-values, respectively, exhibiting a linear correlation between the fault slip amount and p-value. The results indicate that the spatial variations in the b- and p-values were related to the physical properties of the media in the earthquake area and focal earthquake mechanism.
Fragmentation and ISRS-Aware Survivable Routing, Band, Modulation, and Spectrum Allocation Algorithm in Multi-Band Elastic Optical Networks
Authors: Liu Yunxuan , Feng Nan , Shen Lingfei , Lv Jingjing , Yan Dan , Zhao Jijun
Published: May 2024

The C+L band elastic optical networks (C+L-EONs) increase the network capacity significantly. However, the introduction of an L band enhances the inter-channel stimulated Raman scattering effect (ISRS), consequently deteriorating the quality of transmission (QoT) of the signal. Furthermore, spectrum allocation leads to spectrum fragmentation inevitably, which escalates the bandwidth blocking rate. In addition, in C+L-EONs, a single fiber carries more services, and once one of the links fails, a huge number of requests will be interrupted, resulting in huge economic losses. Therefore, this paper proposes a survivability routing, band, modulation, and spectrum allocation (RBMSA) algorithm that effectively guarantees service survivability and reduces the impact of ISRS and spectrum fragmentation. The algorithm employs shared backup path protection and a band partitioning method, whereby the spectrum resource of the primary path is assigned in the L band and the backup path is assigned in the C band in order to minimize the impact of ISRS on the QoT of the request while ensuring the survivability of the network. Furthermore, a fragmentation metric accounting for both the free and shared spectrum resource is proposed to mitigate both free and shared spectrum fragmentation. The simulation results reveal that the proposed RBMSA algorithm reduces the bandwidth blocking probability (BBP) and the fragmentation rate (FR) by 47.7% and 21.3%, respectively, and improves the optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) by 4.17 dB in NSFNET. In COST239, the BBP, FR, and OSNR are 22.1%, 21.5%, and 4.71 dB, respectively.
Optical Module for Simultaneous Crop Cultivation and Solar Energy Generation: Design, Analysis, and Experimental Validation
Authors: Jung Jinwoo , Kim Young-Jae , Shin Hyun-Sang , Kim Ki-Joong , Shin Bu-Hyun , Lee Sang-Wook , Kim Byung-Wook , Kim Wan-Chin
Published: May 2024

This study proposes a rectangular-shaped optical module capable of simultaneously implementing crop cultivation and solar power generation. By employing a cylindrical Fresnel lens (CFL) array plate with a size of 100 × 100 mm2, multiple focal lines are formed, where some of the incident light transmits through the module while the rest is guided laterally through the rectangular lightguide structure. This guided sunlight is then concentrated by a cylindrical compound parabolic concentrator (CCPC) structure, resulting in a 20-fold concentration ratio, onto a 5 × 100 mm2 Si photovoltaic (PV) cell. To experimentally verify feasibility, both the CFL array plate and the lightguide plate were fabricated with three-axis machine tooling equipment and assembled. The power generated experimentally by the 5 × 100 mm2 Si PV cell was 54% of the expected value from the simulation results on the light-concentrated efficiency considering experimental conditions, while the results on experimental transmittance along with rotation angles were very close to the simulation results. However, overall, the tendency of the generated power along the rotation angles is close to the tendency of the light-concentrated efficiency along the rotation angles from the simulation. Additionally, this study dealt with further consideration to enhance light-concentrated efficiency, introducing a means to adjust the trade-off relationship between transmittance and light-concentrated efficiency.
Sensitivity Analysis of Different Factors in the New Pipe Curtain Freezing Method under Seepage Conditions
Authors: Hu Jun , Li Yu , Wang Tao , Zhang Shuai , Lin Xiaoqi
Published: May 2024

This paper takes the freezing project of the North Arch Tunnel of the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge as an example. Based on Darcy’s law and the theory of heat transfer in porous media, using the coupled module of the temperature field and seepage field in the COMSOL Multiphysics software, numerical simulations of the freezing reinforcement of the new pipe curtain freezing method are conducted to study the influence of different factors on this method under seepage conditions. The research shows that an increase in the groundwater flow velocity will affect the development of frozen soil curtains, prolonging the formation time of frozen soil curtains. A rise in the initial ground temperature will increase the time required for the formation of frozen soil curtains during the freezing process, resulting in a slight increase in the temperature of the final frozen soil curtains. With an increase in the salinity of the groundwater, the temperature at the temperature measurement point upstream of the freezing pipe increases, while the temperature at the temperature measurement point downstream of the freezing pipe decreases. The average temperature of the frozen soil curtain also increases with an increase in the salinity of the groundwater. This study is expected to provide a valuable reference for similar projects in the future.
Research on the Coupled Coordination and Prediction of Technological Innovation and Ecological Environment Development in Coastal Regions of China
Authors: Wang Yuan , Wu Yingying , Zhang Yihua , Zheng Linling
Published: May 2024

Scientific and technological innovation and ecological progress are important forces for China’s high-quality development. Nevertheless, the current body of research seldom explores the mutual dependence and evolutionary patterns of the two regional systems when considering both historical and future perspectives. This paper aims to enhance the current theoretical research framework by focusing on the coastal region of China. It analyzes and predicts the co-evolution and space–time distribution process of two systems by constructing a coupled model and a gray prediction model. The results show the following: (1) the coupling and coordinated development level of the two coastal systems has basically reached the stage of good coupling and coordinated development, and the level has increased, but the gap has gradually increased, and Jiangsu and Guangdong have reached the leading level; (2) the spatial distribution in coastal areas is uneven, showing a convex spatial pattern of “high in the middle and low at both ends”; (3) during the forecast period, the overall coupling and coordination level of the two systems will continue to improve, but individual cities still cannot jump out of the development state of slow development processes. With the aim of fostering the harmonious growth of both systems at both regional and national levels, this paper proposes practical recommendations concerning the establishment of a sustainable interaction mechanism, the evolution of the industrial structure towards ecological sustainability, and the economic contribution to scientific and technological innovation. Furthermore, this article serves as a valuable reference for advancing the sustainable development of other nations.
Automated Quantification of Raster Orientation of Fused Filament Fabrication Components Using Ultrasonic Testing
Authors: Amin Atik , Jack David A. , Fleck Trevor J.
Published: May 2024

An automated method for nondestructively characterizing the layer-by-layer raster orientation of additively manufactured components fabricated via the fused filament fabrication (FFF) process is presented, which utilizes full waveform capture of the ultrasonic signal paired with two-dimensional fast Fourier transform analysis. The proposed method extracts internal features of the fabricated component at various depths and then applies the two-dimensional Fourier transformation in the spatial domain to analyze the raster path and extract the orientation. Three material systems are studied: a standard polymer (Poly cyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate glycol, PCTG), an engineered polymer (high-temperature nylon, HTN) and a carbon fiber-filled polymer (polyethylene terephthalate, PET-CF). Samples were fabricated using an industrial-grade FFF system and scanned using a high-resolution custom immersion ultrasonic platform. Studies were performed using both a 10 MHz and a 15 MHz spherically focused transducer, with the 10 MHz transducer yielding more accurate and more consistent results for the investigated material systems. The analyzed results show that the presented automated method can accurately identify the direction of the raster path with an error within 1°–2° in each of the first 9~10 deposited layers of the investigated PCTG and the PET-CF samples, and the first 14 layers of the HTN samples. This study provides an approach for the automated analysis of the internal features of FFF components using ultrasonic testing, which can further inform the quality control process, in turn increasing reliability and enabling acceptance of AM parts in various industries.
A Two-Stage Automatic Container Code Recognition Method Considering Environmental Interference
Authors: Yu Meng , Zhu Shanglei , Lu Bao , Chen Qiang , Wang Tengfei
Published: May 2024

Automatic Container Code Recognition (ACCR) is critical for enhancing the efficiency of container terminals. However, existing ACCR methods frequently fail to achieve satisfactory performance in complex environments at port gates. In this paper, we propose an approach for accurate, fast, and compact container code recognition by utilizing YOLOv4 for container region localization and Deeplabv3+ for character recognition. To enhance the recognition speed and accuracy of YOLOv4 and Deeplabv3+, and to facilitate their deployment at gate entrances, we introduce several improvements. First, we optimize the feature-extraction process of YOLOv4 and Deeplabv3+ to reduce their computational complexity. Second, we enhance the multi-scale recognition and loss functions of YOLOv4 to improve the accuracy and speed of container region localization. Furthermore, we adjust the dilated convolution rates of the ASPP module in Deeplabv3+. Finally, we replace two upsampling structures in the decoder of Deeplabv3+ with transposed convolution upsampling and sub-pixel convolution upsampling. Experimental results on our custom dataset demonstrate that our proposed method, C-YOLOv4, achieves a container region localization accuracy of 99.76% at a speed of 56.7 frames per second (FPS), while C-Deeplabv3+ achieves an average pixel classification accuracy (MPA) of 99.88% and an FPS of 11.4. The overall recognition success rate and recognition speed of our approach are 99.51% and 2.3 ms per frame, respectively. Moreover, C-YOLOv4 and C-Deeplabv3+ outperform existing methods in complex scenarios.
Proprioception and Balance Control in Ankle Osteoarthritis and after Total Ankle Replacement: A Prospective Assessment
Authors: Caravelli Silvio , Bragonzoni Laura , Vocale Emanuele , Barone Giuseppe , Vara Giulio , Di Paolo Stefano , Zinno Raffaele , Pinelli Erika , De Girolamo Ciro Ivan , De Blasiis Paolo , Benedetti Maria Grazia , Mosca Massimiliano
Published: May 2024

Total Ankle Replacement (TAR) could, in theory, partially restore joint sensation and motion, enhancing motor coordination, functional stability, and proprioception in a joint affected by osteoarthritis. The aim of this study is to evaluate ankle proprioception before and after a Total Ankle Replacement via an instrumental objective assessment. The evaluation of proprioceptive stability was carried out using the dedicated Delos Postural Proprioceptive System (DPPS). The clinical evaluation was performed by administering validated questionnaires, namely the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and Short Form-36 (SF-36). Twenty patients were selected, undergoing a complete procedure with clinical and instrumental pre-operative and post-operative evaluation at the end of the follow-up. AOFAS ankle–hindfoot and SF-36 both showed a statistically significant improvement between the pre-operative and post-operative state. The postural tests performed using the DPPS showed that the affected limb showed results slightly lower than in pre-operative. In conclusion, according to the current data, the TAR does not show an improvement in proprioceptive joint stability, and although the registered mean values do not present a statistical significance, the stabilometry shows data lower than the healthy limb. In this perspective, further studies are recommended to highlight any rehabilitation scheme or protocols, using wider case series.
Design and Control of a Shape Memory Alloy-Based Idle Air Control Actuator for a Mid-Size Passenger Vehicle Application
Authors: Turabimana Pacifique , Sohn Jung Woo , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: May 2024

The idle air control actuator is an important device in automotive engine management systems to reduce fuel consumption by controlling the engine’s idling operation. This research proposes an innovative idle air control (IAC) actuator for vehicle applications utilizing shape memory alloy (SMA) technology. The proposed actuator leverages the unique properties of SMAs, such as the ability to undergo large deformations upon thermal activation, to achieve precise and rapid controls in the air intake of automotive engines during idle conditions. The actuator structure mechanism consists of an SMA spring and an antagonistic spring made from steel. The design process utilizes both numerical and analytical approaches. The SMA spring is electrically supplied to activate the opening process of the actuator, and its closing state does not need electricity. However, the PID controller is used to control the applied current, which reduces the time taken by the actuator to achieve the actuation strokes. It shows good operability within multiple numbers of operation cycles. Additionally, the performance of the designed actuator is evaluated through mathematical algorithms by integrating it into the engine’s air intake system during idle operating conditions. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the SMA-based actuator in achieving rapid control of the air intake through bypass, thereby improving engine idle conditions.
Designing and Testing a Picking and Selecting Integrated Remote-Operation-Type Dragon-Fruit-Picking Device
Authors: Yao Penghui , Qiu Liqi , Sun Qun , Xu Lipeng , Zhao Ying , Fan Zhongxing , Zhang Andong
Published: May 2024

In order to effectively solve the problems of the complex growth state of dragon fruit and how the picking process is mostly manual, this study designed a picking and selecting integrated remote-operation-type dragon-fruit-picking device. Based on SOLIDWORKS 2020 software for the three-dimensional digital design and overall assembly of key components, the structure and working theory of the machine are introduced. By improving the high-recognition-rate dragon fruit target detection algorithm based on YOLOv5, better recognition and locating effects were achieved for targets with a small size and high density, as well as those in bright-light scenes. Serial communication, information acquisition, and the precise control of each picking action were realized by building the software and hardware platforms of the picking device control system. By analyzing the working principle of the mechanical system and the mechanics of the machine picking process, the critical factors affecting the net picking rate and damage rate of the dragon-fruit-picking device were confirmed. Based on the force and parameter analysis of the test results, it was confirmed that the machine had an optimal picking influence when the flexible claw closing speed was 0.029 m/s, the electric cylinder extending speed was 0.085 m/s, and the mechanical arm moving speed was 0.15 m/s. The net picking rate of the device reached 90.5%, and the damage rate reached 2.9%. The picking device can complete the picking of a single dragon fruit, as well as a plurality of fruits grown at a growing point, and integrates the integration of picking fruits, removing bad fruits, and sorting fruits, which can improve the efficiency of dragon fruit harvesting and replace manual work.
Empowering Active and Healthy Ageing: Integrating IoT and Wearable Technologies for Personalised Interventions
Authors: Joymangul Jensen Selwyn , Ciobanu Ileana , Agnoloni Francesco , Lampe Jure , Pedrini Chiara , Pinto Angela , Franceschini Bruna , Nicolas Damien , Tamburini Elena , Cecchi Francesca , Berteanu Mihai , Khadraoui Djamel
Published: May 2024

Social isolation and loneliness greatly contribute to negative health consequences in older adults. Technological solutions can be an asset in promoting social connections and healthy behaviours. This paper presents an innovative structure for an Internet of Things (IoT) platform specifically tailored for older persons. The framework utilises a supervised learning algorithm to classify users into four identified profiles to facilitate the adoption and engagement of technology. The platform incorporates wearables, such as socks and smart bands, to track physical activity, and a messaging module to encourage social interaction. The platform processes the acquired data to quantify steps and deliver tailored interventions remotely to the older adults through the AGAPE Assistant, the mHealth solution of the platform. Furthermore, the AGAPE Assistant has a user interface design for older adults, with a focus on their specific needs. Additionally, improving digital literacy among older adults is crucial for maximizing the long-term compliance and benefits of such technological solutions. On the other hand, AGAPE Monitor is a web application used by formal caregivers to configure the tailored interventions. The platform’s usability was assessed using different usability scale questionnaires, which revealed a mild level of user satisfaction and acceptance. The proposed framework is currently being deployed on more than 112 older adults across three countries: Italy, Romania, and Portugal. The proposed framework provides a holistic solution to encourage active ageing by adopting technology, implementing hybrid interventions, and promoting social interactions.
Impacts of Land–Atmosphere Interactions on Boundary Layer Variables: A Classification Perspective from Modeling Approaches
Authors: Zeng Xin-Min , Li Congmin , Wang Ning , Ullah Irfan
Published: May 2024

Previously, the types of impacts of land–atmosphere interactions have scarcely been clarified systematically. In this article, we present a classification of these impacts based on modeling boundary layer variables/parameters, which is grouped into local, regional, and remote impacts. In the narrow sense, land surface processes (LSPs) influence the atmospheric state via vertical land–atmosphere coupling at local scales, which is referred to as local LSP impacts. However, local LSP impacts can lead to the advection effect due to the horizontal heterogeneity in the parameters over a region, which can be defined as regional LSP impacts. Furthermore, remote LSP impacts on the regional atmospheric state are induced by some land/sea surface variables/parameters over remote key areas of the Earth’s surface, which are conventionally taken as strong signals of climate variation. Of the three impacts, local impacts are the most important essential, as the other two types of impacts are derived from these impacts. We describe the quantification of local impacts based on our previous studies from the perspective of modeling approaches, and we discuss some issues related to these impacts. Previous investigations showed that local LSP impacts are mostly stronger than regional LSP impacts, e.g., the diabatic process is dominant in the physical processes responsible for daily maximum temperatures, and two first-order physical processes including vertical diffusion largely induce changes in surface wind speed in China. Finally, some aspects for future research are noted. This study provides insights into the research on land–atmosphre interactions at different scales.
Potential Strengthening of the Madden–Julian Oscillation Modulation of Tropical Cyclogenesis
Authors: Haertel Patrick , Liang Yu
Published: May 2024

A typical Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) generates a large region of enhanced rainfall over the equatorial Indian Ocean that moves slowly eastward into the western Pacific. Tropical cyclones often form on the poleward edges of the MJO moist-convective envelope, frequently impacting both southeast Asia and northern Australia, and on occasion Eastern Africa. This paper addresses the question of whether these MJO-induced tropical cyclones will become more numerous in the future as the oceans warm. The Lagrangian Atmosphere Model (LAM), which has been carefully tuned to simulate realistic MJO circulations, is used to study the sensitivity of MJO modulation of tropical cyclogenesis (TCG) to global warming. A control simulation for the current climate is compared with a simulation with enhanced radiative forcing consistent with that for the latter part of the 21st century under Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 585. The LAM control run reproduces the observed MJO modulation of TCG, with about 70 percent more storms forming than monthly climatology predicts within the MJO’s convective envelope. The LAM SSP585 run suggests that TCG enhancement within the convective envelope could reach 170 percent of the background value under a high greenhouse gas emissions scenario, owing to a strengthening of Kelvin and Rossby wave components of the MJO’s circulation.
Wind Tunnel Evaluation of Plant Protection Products Drift Using an Integrated Chemical–Physical Approach
Authors: Becce Lorenzo , Mazzi Giovanna , Ali Ayesha , Bortolini Mara , Gregoris Elena , Feltracco Matteo , Barbaro Elena , Contini Daniele , Mazzetto Fabrizio , Gambaro Andrea
Published: May 2024

The use of plant protection products (PPPs) has become fundamental to guarantee excellent field productivity. Nevertheless, their usage presents critical issues, such as the quantity of substances used, the relative toxicity, and the contamination of nearby fields caused by atmospheric drift. This study focuses on the characterization of aerosol droplets of PPPs produced by spraying a chemical marker, fluorescein, with an orchard airblast sprayer equipped with conventional hollow cone (HC) and anti-drift air inclusion (AI) nozzles, using a wind tunnel as a controlled environment. A particle/droplet image analysis was employed to study the droplet production of the nozzles, while a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) analysis allowed us to evaluate samples collected using a cascade impactor located at 5 m, 10 m, and 20 m from the emission point. Overall, HC nozzles are very accurate at producing specific drop size distributions (DSDs), while AI nozzles produce a much wider DSD, concentrating the largest part of the distributed volume into droplets of a larger size. The marker concentration was much lower for the AI nozzles compared to the HC nozzles; moreover, the two nozzles show a similar trend in the coarse droplet range, while significantly differing in the fine droplet spectrum.
Agroclimatic Indicators for Grapevines in the Zielona Góra Wine Region (Poland) in the Era of Advancing Global Warming
Authors: Jaster Dominika , Tomczyk Arkadiusz Marek , Hildebrandt-Radke Iwona , Matulewski Paweł
Published: May 2024

Grapevine is a highly climate-sensitive plant. In the last few decades, an increase in the number and area of vineyards has been observed in the country, with the Zielona Góra region pioneering this revival. A comprehensive analysis of climatic and agroclimatic indicators for grapevines was conducted to assess the possibilities and limitations in this region. Based on data obtained from the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management—National Research Institute (IMGW-PIB) for stations in Zielona Góra, nine key indicators were identified. The analysis of agroclimatic conditions for the Zielona Góra winegrowing region from 1951 to 2022 revealed significant changes in air temperature, length of the vegetative period, and number of frosts. The average annual air temperature increased, while the number of days with temperatures below 8 °C decreased. The extension of the vegetative period (starting earlier and ending later) favours grapevine cultivation. The increase in temperature during the vegetative period and the lengthening of the frost-free period have a beneficial effect on grape production in the Zielona Góra region.
Dynamic Battery Modeling for Electric Vehicle Applications
Authors: Rotas Renos , Iliadis Petros , Nikolopoulos Nikos , Rakopoulos Dimitrios , Tomboulides Ananias
Published: May 2024

The development of accurate dynamic battery pack models for electric vehicles (EVs) is critical for the ongoing electrification of the global automotive vehicle fleet, as the battery is a key element in the energy performance of an EV powertrain system. The equivalent circuit model (ECM) technique at the cell level is commonly employed for this purpose, offering a balance of accuracy and efficiency in representing battery operation within the broader powertrain system. In this study, a second-order ECM model of a battery cell has been developed to ensure high accuracy and performance. Modelica, an acausal and object-oriented equation-based modeling language, has been used for its advantageous features, including the development of extendable, modifiable, modular, and reusable models. Parameter lookup tables at multiple levels of state of charge (SoC), extracted from lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery cells with four different commonly used cathode materials, have been utilized. This approach allows for the representation of the battery systems that are used in a wide range of commercial EV applications. To verify the model, an integrated EV model is developed, and the simulation results of the US Environmental Protection Agency Federal Test Procedure (FTP-75) driving cycle have been compared with an equivalent application in MATLAB Simulink. The findings demonstrate a close match between the results obtained from both models across different system points. Specifically, the maximum vehicle velocity deviation during the cycle reaches 1.22 km/h, 8.2% lower than the corresponding value of the reference application. The maximum deviation of SoC is limited to 0.06%, and the maximum value of relative voltage deviation is 1.49%. The verified model enables the exploration of multiple potential architecture configurations for EV powertrains using Modelica.
Improved Thermal Management of Li-Ion Batteries with Phase-Change Materials and Metal Fins
Authors: Paciolla Pierluca , Papurello Davide
Published: May 2024

The continuing increase in pollutant emissions requires the use of alternative power sources. This includes the use of electric or hybrid vehicles whose energy storage system is based on batteries of various types, including lithium-ion batteries. The optimum operating temperature is between 15 °C and 35 °C. Too high temperatures can lead to catastrophic phenomena such as thermal runaway. The thermal gradient within the system should not exceed 5 °C. An effective Battery Thermal Management System can mitigate this problem. This study analysed a lithium-ion battery with a bag structure. Temperature control was evaluated using a passive (low-cost) system with phase-change materials (PCMs). The material chosen was n-octadecane (paraffin) due to its thermophysical properties and market price. Four different cooling methods were analysed, including air, fins, pure PCM, and a mixed system of single cells and small battery packs. The results show that an undesirable temperature peak around 50 °C (323.15 K) can occur at hot spots. The best system for containing the temperature inside the battery pack is the PCM cooling system with fins. The optimum fin thickness is 1.5 mm. To contain the temperature inside the battery pack, the number of fins studied is 10, while the best temperature containment is achieved with n+ 1 plates, where n is the number of cells.