bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Variable Selection Methods for Discriminant-Type Problems in Chemometrics
Authors: Sorochan Armstrong Michael D. , de la Mata A. Paulina , Harynuk James J.
Published: May 2022

Discriminant-type analyses arise from the need to classify samples based on their measured characteristics (variables), usually with respect to some observable property. In the case of samples that are difficult to obtain, or using advanced instrumentation, it is very common to encounter situations with many more measured characteristics than samples. The method of Partial Least Squares Regression (PLS-R), and its variant for discriminant-type analyses (PLS-DA) are among the most ubiquitous of these tools. PLS utilises a rank-deficient method to solve the inverse least-squares problem in a way that maximises the co-variance between the known properties of the samples (commonly referred to as the Y-Block), and their measured characteristics (the X-block). A relatively small subset of highly co-variate variables are weighted more strongly than those that are poorly co-variate, in such a way that an ill-posed matrix inverse problem is circumvented. Feature selection is another common way of reducing the dimensionality of the data to a relatively small, robust subset of variables for use in subsequent modelling. The utility of these features can be inferred and tested any number of ways, this are the subject of this review.
Variability in the Aerobic Fitness-Related Dependence on Respiratory Processes During Muscle Work Is Associated With the ACE-I/D Genotype
Authors: Gasser Benedikt , Frei Annika , Niederseer David , Catuogno Silvio , Frey Walter O. , Flück Martin
Published: May 2022

Background

The efficiency of aerobic energy provision to working skeletal muscle is affected by aerobic fitness and a prominent insertion/deletion polymorphism in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE-I/D) gene for the major modulator of tissue perfusion. We assessed whether variability in the fitness state is dependent on the contribution of multiple aspects of oxygen transport to the development of muscle power, and the respective control coefficients, are associated with the ACE-I/D genotype.

Methods

Twenty-five women and 19 men completed a ramp test of cycling exercise to exhaustion during which serial steps of oxygen transport [oxygen uptake (L O2 min−1) (VO2), minute ventilation in (L min−1) (VE), cardiac output in equivalents of L min−1 (Q), arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2), and total hemoglobin concentration (g dL−1) (THb) in Musculus vastus lateralis and Musculus gastrocnemius, respiration exchange ratio (RER)], blood lactate and glucose concentration, were continuously monitored. The contribution/reliance of power output (PO) on the parameters of oxygen transport was estimated based on the slopes in Pearson's moment correlations (|r| > 0.65, p < 0.05) vs. power values over the work phase of the ramp test, and for respective fractional changes per time (defining control coefficients) over the rest, work, and recovery phase of the ramp test. Associations of variability in slopes and control coefficients with the genotype and aerobic fitness were evaluated with ANOVA.

Results

All parameters characterizing aspects of the pathway of oxygen, except THb, presented strong linear relationships [(|r| > 0.70) to PO]. Metabolic efficiency was 30% higher in the aerobically fit subjects [peak oxygen uptake (mL O2 min−1) (VO2peak) ≥ 50 ml min−1 kg−1], and energy expenditure at rest was associated with the fitness state × ACE-I/D genotype, being highest in the fit non-carriers of the ACE D-allele. For VO2, VE, and RER the power-related slopes of linear relationships during work demonstrated an association with aerobic fitness, being 30–40% steeper in the aerobically fit than unfit subjects. For VE the power-related slope also demonstrated an association with the ACE-I/D genotype. For increasing deficit in muscle oxygen saturation (DSmO2) in Musculus vastus lateralis (DSmO2 Vas), the power-related slope was associated with the interaction between aerobic fitness × ACE-I/D genotype.

Conclusion

Local and systemic aspects of aerobic energy provision stand under influence of the fitness state and ACE-I/D genotype. This especially concerns the association with the index of the muscle's mitochondrial respiration (SmO2) which compares to the genetic influences of endurance training.
A Re-examination of the Measurement of Foot Strike Mechanics During Running: The Immediate Effect of Footwear Midsole Thickness
Authors: Zhang Zhenyuan , Lake Mark
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Midsole cushioning thickness (MT) is a key component of running footwear that may influence the stiffness setting of the joints, performance enhancement, and injury prevention. Most studies that have investigated the influence of manipulating shoe midsole characteristics on foot strike patterns and vertical force loading rates have not considered the dynamic conditions of initial landing and the associated initial lower limb joint stiffness. In this study, we examined the effect of running in shoes with large changes in MT on both the posture and dynamics associated with foot strike.

Methods

12 injury-free runners with habitual rearfoot strike patterns ran at 4.5 m/s along a 40-m runway in shoe conditions with MT of 30, 42, and 54 mm, respectively. Ground reaction force and the right leg kinematic data were collected. One-way repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to statistically analyze the effect of MT on key variables linked to foot strike.

Results

Increased midsole thickness resulted in a slightly flatter foot strike posture (p < 0.05), a decreased shank retraction velocity (p < 0.05), and an increase in forward horizontal foot velocity (p < 0.05), all at initial ground contact. Vertical force loading rates were reduced with increasing MT (p < 0.05), but this was associated with large increases in the initial ankle and knee joint stiffness (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Adjustments in the initial conditions of contact with the ground during running were seen in both the posture and dynamics of the lower limbs. To help to mitigate the impact severity from foot-ground collision with the thinnest shoe condition, there was an increased shank retraction velocity and decreased forward velocity of the foot at landing. These active impact-moderating adaptations likely served to reduce the changes in impact severity expected due to midsole material properties alone and should be considered in relation to altering the risk of running-related injuries.
Attention to the Details: How Variations in U.S. Grass-Fed Cattle-Feed Supplementation and Finishing Date Influence Human Health
Authors: Krusinski Lucas , Sergin Selin , Jambunathan Vijayashree , Rowntree Jason E. , Fenton Jenifer I.
Published: May 2022

As the global population increases, so does meat consumption. This trend is accompanied by concerns regarding the meat industry, and consumers are demanding transparency on the environmental and health effects of the products they are purchasing. Many leading health organizations recommend reducing red meat consumption. Nevertheless, no differentiation is made among red meats and beef. The beef production system is generally ignored despite nutritional differences between grain- and grass-fed beef. Compared to grain-fed beef, grass-fed beef contains a healthier fatty acid profile, including more omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid, and increased concentrations of phytochemicals desired by health-conscious customers. However, there is a lack of consistency among grass-fed beef in the United States regarding clear product labeling and cattle dietary components. Grass-fed beef labeling confusion has emerged, including misunderstandings between grass-fed and grass-finished beef. Along with this, previous studies observed significant nutritional variation among grass-finished beef from different producers across the country. Cattle diet has the strongest influence on the nutritional composition of beef. Therefore, understanding differences in feeding practices is key to understanding differing nutritional quality of grass-fed beef. Feeding cattle diverse pastures composed of multiple plant species including grasses and legumes managed in a rotational grazing fashion results in higher omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and phytochemical levels in beef compared to feedlots and monocultures. Seasonal differences including changes in temperature, rainfall, grazing practices, and plant growth cycles affect the nutritional composition of feeds and ultimately meat. Additional feeds utilized in grass-fed beef production systems such as conserved forages may reduce or increase health-promoting nutrients in grass-fed beef, while supplements such as grape byproducts and flaxseed may improve its nutritional profile. Further research should measure the effects of individual feedstuff and the finishing period on the nutritional profile on grass-fed beef. A better understanding of these details will be a step toward the standardization of pasture-raised ruminant products, strengthening the relationship between grass-fed beef consumption and human health.
Evaluation and Multivariate Analysis of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] Germplasm for Selected Nutrients—Mining for Nutri-Dense Accessions
Authors: Padhi Siddhant Ranjan , Bartwal Arti , John Racheal , Tripathi Kuldeep , Gupta Kavita , Wankhede Dhammaprakash Pandhari , Mishra Gyan Prakash , Kumar Sanjeev , Archak Sunil , Bhardwaj Rakesh
Published: May 2022

A total of 120 highly diverse cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] genotypes, including indigenous and exotic lines, were evaluated for different biochemical traits using AOAC official methods of analysis and other standard methods. The results exhibited wide variability in the content of proteins (ranging from 19.4 to 27.9%), starch (from 27.5 to 42.7 g 100 g−1), amylose (from 9.65 to 21.7 g 100 g−1), TDF (from 13.7 to 21.1 g 100 g−1), and TSS (from 1.30 to 8.73 g 100 g−1). The concentration of anti-nutritional compounds like phenols and phytic acid ranged from 0.026 to 0.832 g 100 g−1 and 0.690 to 1.88 g 100 g−1, respectively. The correlation coefficient between the traits was calculated to understand the inter-trait relationship. Multivariate analysis (PCA and HCA) was performed to identify the major traits contributing to variability and group accessions with a similar profile. The first three principal components, i.e., PC1, PC2, and PC3, contributed to 62.7% of the variation, where maximum loadings were from starch, followed by protein, phytic acid, and dietary fiber. HCA formed six distinct clusters at a squared Euclidean distance of 5. Accessions in cluster I had high TDF and low TSS content, while cluster II was characterized by low amylose content. Accessions in cluster III had high starch, low protein, and phytic acid, whereas accessions in cluster IV contained high TSS, phenol, and low phytic acid. Cluster V was characterized by high protein, phytic acid, TSS, and phenol content and low starch content, and cluster VI had a high amount of amylose and low phenol content. Some nutri-dense accessions were identified from the above-mentioned clusters, such as EC169879 and IC201086 with high protein (>27%), TSS, amylose, and TDF content. These compositions are promising to provide practical support for developing high-value food and feed varieties using effective breeding strategies with a higher economic value.
Virtual-Augmented Reality and Life-Like Neurosurgical Simulator for Training: First Evaluation of a Hands-On Experience for Residents
Authors: Petrone Salvatore , Cofano Fabio , Nicolosi Federico , Spena Giannantonio , Moschino Marco , Di Perna Giuseppe , Lavorato Andrea , Lanotte Michele Maria , Garbossa Diego
Published: May 2022

Background

In the recent years, growing interest in simulation-based surgical education has led to various practical alternatives for medical training. More recently, courses based on virtual reality (VR) and three-dimensional (3D)-printed models are available. In this paper, a hybrid (virtual and physical) neurosurgical simulator has been validated, equipped with augmented reality (AR) capabilities that can be used repeatedly to increase familiarity and improve the technical skills in human brain anatomy and neurosurgical approaches.

Methods

The neurosurgical simulator used in this study (UpSurgeOn Box, UpSurgeOn Srl, Assago, Milan) combines a virtual component and a physical component with an intermediate step to provide a hybrid solution. A first reported and evaluated practical experience on the anatomical 3D-printed model has been conducted with a total of 30 residents in neurosurgery. The residents had the possibility to choose a specific approach, focus on the correct patient positioning, and go over the chosen approach step-by-step, interacting with the model through AR application. Next, each practical surgical step on the 3D model was timed and qualitatively evaluated by 3 senior neurosurgeons. Quality and usability-grade surveys were filled out by participants.

Results

More than 89% of the residents assessed that the application and the AR simulator were very helpful in improving the orientation skills during neurosurgical approaches. Indeed, 89.3% of participants found brain and skull anatomy highly realistic during their tasks. Moreover, workshop exercises were considered useful in increasing the competency and technical skills required in the operating room by 85.8 and 84.7% of residents, respectively. Data collected confirmed that the anatomical model and its application were intuitive, well-integrated, and easy to use.

Conclusion

The hybrid AR and 3D-printed neurosurgical simulator could be a valid tool for neurosurgical training, capable of enhancing personal technical skills and competence. In addition, it could be easy to imagine how patient safety would increase and healthcare costs would be reduced, even if more studies are needed to investigate these aspects. The integration of simulators for training in neurosurgery as preparatory steps for the operating room should be recommended and further investigated given their huge potential.
Significance of Pseudomeningocele After Decompressive Surgery for Chiari I Malformation
Authors: Balasa Artur , Kunert Przemysław , Bielecki Mateusz , Kujawski Sławomir , Marchel Andrzej
Published: May 2022

Background

Pseudomeningoceles (PMCs) as abnormal collections of cerebrospinal fluid are quite common findings on follow-up MRI after Chiari decompression surgery (CDS). However, the importance of their identification has not been truly determined, especially when PMCs are described occasionally in the process of radiological follow-up. We retrospectively analyzed surgical outcomes and imaging findings after CDS depending upon the occurrence and thickness of PMCs.

Methods

A total of 76 adult patients who underwent CDS were analyzed. The clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with a pseudomeningocele (wPMC) were evaluated and compared to those of patients without a pseudomeningocele (w/oPMC). Radiological morphometric measurements were performed and compared between groups. Comparisons of the maximal PMC thickness were made within the wPMC group.

Results

PMCs were recognized in 27 (35.5%) patients, of whom 3 (11.1%) required reoperation. Differences in satisfactory result rates regarding gestalt assessment and Chicago Chiari Outcome Scale were statistically insignificant between the w/oPMC and wPMC groups (p = 1 and p = 0.56, respectively). The postoperative syringomyelia decrease and cerebellar tonsil elevation were similar between the groups (p = 1 and p = 0.74, respectively) in the long-term follow-up. Additionally, the clinical or radiological outcomes with radiological details were not related to PMC thickness in the long-term follow-up. However, radiological details showed the cooccurrence of PMCs with a postsurgical of cerebello-tentorial distance increase (p < 0.05), basion-pontomedullary sulcus distance decrease (p < 0.05) and tonsillo-graft distance decrease (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

We found no significant relationships between PMC presence or thickness and clinical or radiological outcomes. However, postoperative changes within the posterior fossa associated with PMCs resemble brain sagging, which occurs in intracranial hypotension. Therefore, extradural cerebrospinal fluid escape may also be responsible for symptoms in some patients with PMCs after CDS.
Case Report: Adrenocortical Oncocytoma in a Patient with a Previous Contralateral Adrenalectomy for a Cortisol-Secreting Adenoma
Authors: Canu Letizia , Perigli Giuliano , Badii Benedetta , Santi Raffaella , Nesi Gabriella , Pradella Silvia , Maggi Mario , Peri Alessandro
Published: May 2022

Background

Oncocytomas are uncommon benign tumors that arise in various organs and are predominantly composed of oncocytes. Adrenocortical oncocytomas are extremely rare and are generally non-functioning.

Methods

We report the case of a 40-year-old patient with a progressively enlarging left adrenal mass. At the age of 19 he had undergone right adrenalectomy for a cortisol-secreting adenoma. Radiologic features were not typical of an adenoma and positive uptake was detected at 18F-FDG-PET. Because of the uncertain nature of the growing lesion, it was decided to proceed to surgical resection.

Results

The surgeon managed to remove the left adrenal mass, sparing the normal adrenal gland, and histology was consistent with adrenocortical oncocytoma. Corticosteroid supplementation was prescribed, but at reassessment, adrenal function was found to be preserved and treatment withdrawn.

Conclusions

Adrenal oncocytoma is a rare diagnosis, but should be considered in the presence of a growing mass with non-specific radiologic appearance.
Pharmacokinetic Exposures Associated With Oral Administration of Sorafenib in Dogs With Spontaneous Tumors
Authors: Cawley Jacob R. , Stewart Samuel D. , Mochel Jonathan Paul , Veluvolu Sridhar , Khanna Chand , Fenger Joelle M.
Published: May 2022

Sorafenib is a multi-kinase small molecule inhibitor that targets serine/threonine and tyrosine kinases including the RAF kinase family, VEGFR-2, and PDGFR. The aim of this study was to evaluate the systemic pharmacokinetics of a previously defined tolerable oral dose of sorafenib in tumor-bearing dogs. Six client-owned dogs with a cytologic or histologic diagnosis of cancer were enrolled in this open-label, tolerability study. Dogs were administered sorafenib at an intended dose of 3 mg/kg and serum samples were obtained for analysis of sorafenib serum concentrations at 0, 1, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 168 h post-drug administration. Median time to peak serum sorafenib concentration occurred at 4 h (range 2–12 h) resulting in an average serum concentration of 54.9 ± 33.5 ng/mL (118.2 ± 72.1 nM). Mean sorafenib levels declined by over 70% relative to peak serum concentrations by 24 h in all dogs, suggesting the value of at least twice daily administration. Doses of 3 mg/kg were well-tolerated and no patients in the study experienced adverse events that were attributable to sorafenib. Future trials in dogs with cancer are recommended at this dosing schedule to assess the effect of sorafenib administration on anti-tumor efficacy signals and relevant pharmacodynamic target modulation in vivo.
Prenatal Immunization to Prevent Viral Disease Outcomes During Pregnancy and Early Life
Authors: Goswami Ria , Pavon Carolina Garrido , Miller Itzayana G. , Berendam Stella J. , Williams Caitlin A. , Rosenthal Danielle , Gross Mackensie , Phan Caroline , Byrd Alliyah , Pollara Justin , Permar Sallie R. , Fouda Genevieve G.
Published: May 2022

Pregnancy significantly elevates the risk of developing severe viral diseases, which can have a detrimental effect on fetal development and increases maternal mortality. In addition, certain viruses can be transmitted vertically from mother to babies, eitherin utero, during delivery, or postnatally during breastfeeding, resulting in congenital or neonatal diseases and associated sequelae. While neonates are highly susceptible to viral infections and severe disease outcomes, due to the immaturity of their developing immune system, virus-specific maternal antibodies transferred either trans-placentally orviabreast milk provide protection to infants against intestinal, respiratory, or systemic infections, during the first months of life. Thus, maternal prenatal immunization is important not only to protect pregnant women from viral diseases, but also to prevent infection and/or improve disease outcomes for the fetuses and neonatesviapassively transferred antibodies. In this review, we discuss the protective role of maternal antibodies against three categories of viruses: (i) viruses that cause severe maternal disease outcomes with mainly indirect consequences to the fetus (e.g. SARS-CoV-2, influenza, DENV, filovirus), (ii) those that are vertically transmitted from mother to their infants and cause congenital diseases (e.g. HIV, ZIKV and CMV), and (iii) those that cause elevated disease severity among neonates and infants postnatally (e.g. RSV, Rotavirus, Norovirus, HSV and HBV). Furthermore, we review relevant pre-clinical animal models that can be employed to develop novel immunization strategies against these viruses to enhance protection of pregnant women and their babies.
Flexible Control Strategy for Upper-Limb Rehabilitation Exoskeleton Based on Virtual Spring Damper Hypothesis
Authors: Kong Dezhi , Wang Wendong , Shi Yikai , Kong Lingyun
Published: May 2022

The focus of this work is to design a control strategy with the dynamic characteristics of spring damping to realize the virtual flexibility and softness of a rigid-joint exoskeleton without installing real, physical elastic devices. The basic idea of a “virtual softening control strategy” for a single rigid joint is that a virtual spring damper (VSD) is installed between the motor and the output shaft. By designing the control signal of the motor, the torque output of the joint actuator is softened so that the output has the characteristics of elasticity and variable stiffness. The transfer velocity profile of human limbs reaching from one posture to another always presents as bell-shaped. According to this characteristic, we constructed a trajectory planning method for a point-to-point position-tracking controller based on a normal distribution function, and it was successfully applied to the control of 5-DoF upper-limb rehabilitation exoskeleton. A multi-joint cooperative flexible controller based on the virtual spring damper hypothesis (VSDH) was successfully applied to solve the constrained control problem of the exoskeletons and the self-motion problem caused by redundant degrees of freedom (DoFs). The stability of the closed-loop controlled system is theoretically proven by use of the scalar energy function gradient method and the Riemann metric convergence analysis method.
Introgression of Resistance to Multiple Pathotypes of Plasmodiophora brassicae from Turnip (Brassica rapa ssp. rapifera) into Spring B. napus Canola
Authors: Kaur Kawalpreet , Liu Yingyi , Rahman Habibur
Published: May 2022

Clubroot disease resistance has been introgressed from Brassica rapa into canola following different approaches including a B. napus × B. rapa interspecific cross; however, the details of this cross are not available. To extend our knowledge of this cross for the introgression of resistance to multiple pathotypes, we crossed a clubroot-resistant turnip with a susceptible canola and backcrossed the F1′s to canola. The backcross population was subjected to pedigree breeding with selection for clubroot resistance and canola-quality traits; selection for resistance to pathotype 3H and 3A was performed in the early and advanced generations, respectively. The advanced generation lines were also evaluated for resistance to 3H, 3A, 2B, and 5x, and for field resistance to clubroot, and agronomic and seed quality traits. Following this, we developed canola lines carrying resistance to multiple pathotypes and nuclear DNA content similar to B. napus. Resistance to 3H showed a weak correlation with other pathotypes whereas resistance to 3A showed a strong positive correlation with 5x indicating that resistance to these pathotypes was under a similar genetic control. Thus, the results demonstrate that resistance to multiple pathotypes can be introgressed from a turnip into a canola even when selection for resistance to single pathotype is performed in early generations.
Effect of an Antioxidant Supplement Combination on Boar Sperm
Authors: Galić Ivan , Dragin Saša , Stančić Ivan , Maletić Milan , Apić Jelena , Kladar Nebojša , Spasojević Jovan , Grba Jovana , Kovačević Zorana
Published: May 2022

The study was conducted on a commercial pig farm located in Serbia. Thirty Duroc or Landrace breed boars were randomly selected for this study. The experimental group was fed a compound feed with added organic selenium and Oxynat 3D. The antioxidant status parameters of boar seminal plasma were evaluated using a biochemical analyzer and commercial Randox kits. The sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) using flow cytometry (FC) provided information about spermatozoa’s DNA status. Additionally, the total number of motile spermatozoa and spermatozoa kinematic parameters were measured using the computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system. The aim of this study was to improve the parameters of semen by combining two preparations that have a potential antioxidant effect, but also to establish the level of various antioxidant enzymes in native sperm. There was no statistically significant difference in total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase activity in the seminal plasma obtained from the experimental and control groups of boars. Regarding the superoxide dismutase activity, the research results showed a difference in the control group compared to the experimental one. Moreover, spermatozoa DNA fragmentation and the total number of motile spermatozoa showed statistically significant lower and higher values, respectively, in experimental compared to the control groups. The combination of these two preparations shows significantly enhanced vital parameters of semen. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first in which the ejaculate parameters were examined after the application of a combination of these two antioxidant supplements.
Group Reunion in Zoo European Wildcats Using Cat Appeasing Pheromone (CAP) and Gradual Release of the Animals in the Exhibit—A Case Study
Authors: Bertoni Valentina , Spiezio Caterina , Regaiolli Barbara , Cozzi Alessandro , Valsecchi Paola , Normando Simona
Published: May 2022

The union or reunion of animals with social groups can be a challenging situation, and little has been published about it when solitary species are concerned. Therefore, the aim of the present study was two-fold: (1) to advocate the need for systematic publications about strategies and the outcomes of reunion episodes in zoos and other facilities; and (2) to describe the behaviour of European wildcats (Felis silvestris silvestris) during one such episode, in which a female cat was reintroduced into her family social group using a gradual reunion procedure and cat appeasing pheromone (CAP) (spot-on). The study comprised three periods: the pre-reunion period (10 days, 20 sessions per wildcat), the post-reunion period (A, 5 days, 10 sessions per wildcat; B, 5 days, 10 sessions per wildcat) and the late-reunion period (5 days, 10 sessions per wildcat). In the post-reunion periods, all wildcats were together in the enclosure and were spotted with CAP pheromone. Per period, we collected data on individual and social behaviours. Individual behaviours, such as attention and self-grooming, were performed more in the pre-reunion than in the post-reunion period. Regarding social behaviours, we found that agonistic behaviours were performed more in the pre-reunion than in the post-reunion period. We observed behavioural changes over the course of the study, with behavioural patterns of the late-reunion periods resembling those of the pre-reunion period.
Prediction of Soil Shear Strength Parameters Using Combined Data and Different Machine Learning Models
Authors: Zhu Longtu , Liao Qingxi , Wang Zetian , Chen Jie , Chen Zhiling , Bian Qiwang , Zhang Qingsong
Published: May 2022

Soil shear strength is an important indicator of soil erosion sensitivity and the tillage performance of the cultivated layer. Measuring soil shear strength at a field scale is difficult, time-consuming, and costly. This study proposes a new method to predict soil shear strength parameters (cohesion and internal friction angle) by combining cone penetration test (CPT) data and soil properties. A portable CPT measuring device with two pressure sensors was designed to collect two CPT data in farmland, namely cone tip resistance, and cone side pressure. Direct shear tests were performed in the laboratory to determine the soil shear strength parameters for 83 CPT data collection points. Two easily available soil properties (water content and bulk density) were determined via the oven-drying method. Using the two CPT data and the two soil properties as predictors, three machine learning (ML) models were built for predicting soil cohesion and the internal friction angle, including backpropagation neural network (BPNN), partial least squares regression (PLSR), and support vector regression (SVR). The prediction performance of each model was evaluated using the coefficient of determination (R2), the root-mean-square error (RMSE), and the relative error (RE). The results suggested that among all the evaluated models, the BPNN model was the most suitable prediction model for soil cohesion, and the SVR model performed best in predicting soil internal friction angle. Thus, our findings provide a foundation for the convenient and low-cost measurement of soil shear strength parameters.
Characterizing Air Pollution and Its Association with Emission Sources in Lahore: A Guide to Adaptation Action Plans to Control Pollution and Smog
Authors: Ali Mifrah , Siddique Iffat , Abbas Sawaid
Published: May 2022

Lahore, the home of 11 million people, is one of the most polluted cities in the world. Pollution causes deaths, birth defects, and years of life lost. This study’s real-time data analysis of the air quality index (AQI) showed that air pollution remained “unhealthy for everyone” for 54% of the time, and “unhealthy for sensitive groups” for 88% of the time, during the last three years (June 2019–September 2021). The air quality index (AQI) value in Lahore reached 175 µg/m3 in 2021. This alarmingly hazardous air situation was analyzed by selecting fourteen sites based on the provenance of industrialization and tailpipe emissions. An analysis of remote sensing data for these sites was performed, in addition to field surveys, to identify the relationship between pollutant concentration and on-ground current practices. The key primary and secondary air pollutants selected for analysis were carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), aerosol optical depth (AOD), methane (CH4), and formaldehyde (HCHO). The assessment was carried out for the study period of July 2018 to April 2021. The real-time AQI was plotted against each pollutant’s monthly concentration, which showed a significant positive correlation of AQI with SO2, NO2, and CO. A plotting of the percentage contribution of each pollutant with its emission sources highlighted the main pollutant to take action to reduce, as a priority on those particular sites. The pollutant hotspot within each economic activity was also determined. Assessments showed that the AQI value was higher on weekends than on weekdays. These findings can help to develop smart adaptation action plans for immediate implementation, to dilute the current environmental risks in the city.
Wind Field Characteristics of Complex Terrain Based on Experimental and Numerical Investigation
Authors: Zou Yunfeng , Yue Peng , Liu Qingkuan , He Xuhui , Wang Zhen
Published: May 2022

With the intensification of energy consumption, how to make rational and efficient use of wind energy has been studied all over the world. The construction of facilities to obtain wind energy requires an accurate assessment of the wind characteristics of the local terrain. In order to study the wind characteristics on an island in Southeast China, a 1:1300 terrain model is established, and the characteristics of mean wind and fluctuating wind are studied by numerical simulation and wind tunnel test. The results show that wind speed is affected by the incoming wind direction and local terrain. Wind speed on windward slopes and flat areas with no obstructions is higher, and wind speed on leeward slopes and valleys is lower. Then, the wind attack angle of each measuring point is mainly in the range of −10°~10°, which is much higher than that in flat areas. The positive and negative wind attack angles are controlled by the incoming wind direction, and the size is closely related to the local terrain. As for pulsation characteristics, the disturbance of the inflow determines the turbulence intensity. The incoming wind direction mainly affects the turbulence intensity on the hillside, while the turbulence intensity in the valley and flat area is controlled by the local terrain. In addition, the fluctuating wind speed power spectra on the island is more consistent with the von Karman spectrum, which is quite different from the Kaimal spectrum. The bandwidth on hillsides and valleys will not change with the change in inflow, but for flat areas, the bandwidth is greatly affected by the inflow direction.
A Theoretical Foundation for Context-Aware Cyber-Physical Production Systems
Authors: Hsieh Fu-Shiung
Published: May 2022

The complex workflows and interactions between heterogeneous entities in Cyber-Physical Production Systems (CPPS) call for the use of context-aware computing technology to operate effectively and meet the order requirements in a timely manner. In addition to the objective to meet the order due date, due to resource contention between production processes, CPPS may enter undesirable states. In undesirable states, all or part of the production activities are in waiting states or blocked situation due to improper allocation of resources. The capability to meet the order due date and prevent the system from entering an undesirable state poses challenges in the development of context-aware computing applications for CPPS. In this study, we formulate two situation awareness problems, including a Deadline Awareness Problem and a Future States Awareness Problem to address the above issues. In our previous study, we found that Discrete Timed Petri Nets provide an effective tool to model and analyze CPPS. In this paper, we present a relevant theory to support the operation of CPPS by extending the Discrete Timed Petri Nets to lay a foundation for developing context-aware applications of CPPS with deadline awareness and future states awareness capabilities. We illustrate the theory developed in this study by an example and conduct experiments to verify the computational feasibility of the proposed method.
The Evaluation of Conventional, Electric and Hybrid Electric Passenger Car Pass-By Noise Annoyance Using Psychoacoustical Properties
Authors: Altinsoy M. Ercan
Published: May 2022

Road traffic noise is one of the most prominent sources of urban noise pollution. Recently, as a result of the electrification of vehicles, lower noise levels are expected in urban areas at speeds below 50 km/h. The commonly used physical descriptor, the A-weighted sound pressure level, does not sufficiently characterize the perceived annoyance of either combustion engine or electric passenger car pass-by noises. Psychoacoustical descriptors are advantageous for characterization purposes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the perceived annoyance caused by the noise from internal combustion engine, electric, and hybrid passenger cars using psychoacoustical properties. To achieve this objective, the following steps were conducted. First, the binaurally recorded sounds of 40 cars from different brands with different motorization were presented to the subjects who indicated the intensity of their perceived annoyance on a quasi-continuous scale. Second, the signal and psychoacoustical properties of the recorded sounds were analyzed. Third, a new annoyance index was developed, based on annoyance judgments and signal and psychoacoustical properties, to characterize the annoyance caused by pass-by noises. One of the novel aspects of this study is the consideration of not only the pass-by sounds of the internal combustion engine passenger cars, but also the pass-by sounds of hybrid and electric passenger cars. An acceleration from idle to a target speed of 50 km/h was selected as a traffic pass-by situation, which differs from those considered in previous studies. The results of the study show that psychoacoustical properties, such as loudness, tonality, roughness, and fluctuation strength, are very useful to characterize the annoyance perception, which is caused by single passenger car pass-by sounds in the above mentioned traffic situation. The developed index, which is a weighted combination of chosen psychoacoustical properties, can be very useful for traffic planning and traffic noise prevention measures.
Response of Prokaryotic Communities to Freshwater Salinization
Authors: Gagnon Jean-Christophe , Astorg Louis , Derry Alison M. , Lazar Cassandre Sara
Published: May 2022

Each year, millions of tons of sodium chloride are dumped on roads, contributing to the salinization of freshwater environments. Thus, we sought to understand the effect of sodium chloride (NaCl) on freshwater lake prokaryotic communities, an important and understudied component of food webs. Using mesocosms with 0.01–2.74 ppt NaCl (0.27–1110.86 mg/L Cl−), we evaluated the effect generated on the diversity and absolute abundance of prokaryotic populations after three and six weeks. A positive relationship between Cl− values and absolute bacterial abundance was found after three weeks. The influence of eukaryotic diversity variation was observed as well. Significant differentiation of bacterial communities starting at 420 mg/L Cl− was observed after three weeks, levels lower than the Canadian and US recommendations for acute chloride exposure. The partial recovery of a “pre-disturbance” community was observed following a drop in salinity at the threshold level of 420 mg/L Cl−. A gradual transition of dominance from Betaproteobacteria and Actinobacteria to Bacteroidia and Alphaproteobacteria was observed and is overall similar to the natural transition observed in estuaries.
The Art and Architecture of Victor Bohm (1900–1981)
Authors: Lovra Éva
Published: May 2022

The art and architecture of modernist architect and architectural theorist Victor Bohm (Bőhm Viktor, Böhm Viktor) are rare examples of modernism. At the same time, they were unusual for a provincial city—Miskolc (Hungary)—far from the modernist hub Budapest. Bohm worked in Miskolc during the 1930s, created numerous extraordinary buildings and shaped the skyline of this industrial town. He emigrated to the United States in 1939. The architectural language of his Hungarian designs followed modernist trends, a tendency less evident in his American projects. His buildings received architectural awards, and he has become known as a designer of medical and commercial buildings. He was a pioneer in the study of the relationship between architecture and psychology and sought to understand how an architectural design affects people and how the architect’s identity is manifested in their works. None of Bohm’s Hungarian buildings are protected; most of his buildings in Miskolc were demolished. The present study attempts to preserve his modernist, Hungarian legacy.
Intra-Seasonal Variations and Frequency of Major Sudden Stratospheric Warmings for Northern Winter in Multi-System Seasonal Hindcast Data
Authors: Taguchi Masakazu
Published: May 2022

This study investigates intra-seasonal variations and frequency of major sudden stratospheric warmings (MSSWs) in Northern winter seasonal hindcasts of six systems from 1993/1994 to 2016/2017, in comparison to the Japanese 55-year Reanalysis data. Results show that, over all, all systems reproduce precursory signals to the MSSWs well, such as the increase in the planetary wave heat flux in the extratropical lower stratosphere and the anomalous planetary wave patterns in the troposphere. Some systems are suggested to underestimate or overestimate the mean MSSW frequency. Such differences in the frequency of the MSSWs among the systems are related to those in the mean strength of the stratospheric polar vortex, and also may be partly contributed by those in the frequency of notable heat flux events. The hindcast data exhibit a weaker mean vortex and an increased MSSW frequency for a warm phase than for a cold phase of El Niño/Southern Oscillation, and for an easterly phase than for a westerly phase of the Quasi-Biennial Oscillation. These are qualitatively consistent with reanalysis results, except for a lower MSSW frequency for the warm phase in the reanalysis data. The reanalysis teleconnection results are larger in magnitude than the hindcast results for most ensemble members, although they are included near the edge of the distributions of the ensemble members. The changes in the MSSW frequency with the two external factors are correlated to those in the mean vortex strength among the ensemble members and also the ensemble means for some systems.
Study on the Water and Heat Fluxes of a Very Humid Forest Ecosystem and Their Relationship with Environmental Factors in Jinyun Mountain, Chongqing
Authors: Wang Kai , Wang Yunqi , Wang Yujie , Wang Jieshuai , Wang Songnian , Feng Yincheng
Published: May 2022

The high-humidity mountain forest ecosystem (HHMF) of Jinyun Mountain in Chongqing is a fragile ecosystem that is sensitive to climate change and human activities. Because it is shrouded in fog year-round, illumination in the area is seriously insufficient. However, the flux (energy, water) exchanges (FEs) in this ecosystem and their influencing factors are not clear. Using one-year data from flux towers with a double-layer (25 m and 35 m) eddy covariance (EC) observation system, we proved the applicability of the EC method on rough underlying surfaces, quantified the FEs of HHMFs, and found that part of the fog might also be observed by the EC method. The observation time was separated from day and night, and then the environmental control of the FEs was determined by stepwise regression analysis. Through the water balance, it was proven that the negative value of evapotranspiration (ETN), which represented the water vapor input from the atmosphere to the ecosystem, could not be ignored and provided a new idea for the possible causes of the evaporation paradox. The results showed that the annual average daily sensible heat flux (H) and latent heat flux (LE) ranged from −126.56 to 131.27 W m−2 and from −106.7 to 222.27 W m−2, respectively. The annual evapotranspiration (ET), positive evapotranspiration (ETP), and negative evapotranspiration (ETN) values were 389.31, 1387.76, and −998.45 mm, respectively. The energy closure rate of the EC method in the ecosystems was 84%. Fog was the ETN observed by the EC method and an important water source of the HHMF. Therefore, the study area was divided into subtropical mountain cloud forests (STMCFs). Stepwise regression analysis showed that the H and LE during the day were mainly determined by radiation (Rn) and temperature (Tair), indicating that the energy of the ecosystem was limited, and future climate warming may enhance the FEs of the ecosystem. Additionally, ETN was controlled by wind speed (WS) in the whole period, and WS was mainly affected by altitude and temperature differences within the city. Therefore, fog is more likely to occur in the mountains near heat island cities in tropical and subtropical regions. This study emphasizes that fog, as an important water source, is easily ignored in most EC methods and that there will be a large amount of fog in ecosystems affected by future climate warming, which can explain the evaporation paradox.
A Systematic Review of Drought Indices in Tropical Southeast Asia
Authors: Zaki Muhamad Khoiru , Noda Keigo
Published: May 2022

This study systematically reviews the under-researched experience of performance indices to determine extreme hydroclimate in tropical Southeast Asia. The review was conducted by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis methods with SCOPUS databases. The screening of the articles is based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria encompassing articles published between 2000 and 2021 with solely focused on three extreme hydroclimate indices (standardized precipitation index or SPI, standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index or SPEI, and palmer drought severity index or PDSI) applied in tropical Southeast Asia, and articles form in English. This study found solely 14 of the 532 articles met the criteria and those articles were analyzed thematically and synthesized narratively. The results showed the strengths of indices with the simple data input (SPI and SPEI); those indices are commonly used at the government level in Southeast Asia due to their data availability, which has Viet Nam as the highest (5 articles) number of publications, followed by Malaysia (4 articles), Thailand (3 articles), and Indonesia (2 articles). On the other hand, the sensitivity of SPI and SPEI has the limitation for specific purposes such as in the agricultural sector when applied to Southeast Asia. In the end, we highlighted the potential of future research applying quasi-biennial oscillation and South Western Indian Ocean as well as El Niño Southern Oscillation climate indices.
Bioluminescent-Inhibition-Based Biosensor for Full-Profile Soil Contamination Assessment
Authors: Kolosova Elizaveta M. , Sutormin Oleg S. , Shpedt Aleksandr A. , Stepanova Ludmila V. , Kratasyuk Valentina A.
Published: May 2022

A bioluminescent-enzyme-inhibition-based assay was applied to predict the potential toxicity of the full profile of the following soil samples: agricultural grassland, 10-year fallow land (treated with remediation processes for 10 years) and uncontaminated (virgin) land. This assay specifically detects the influence of aqueous soil extracts from soils on the activity of a coupled enzyme system of luminescent bacteria: NAD(P)H:FMN-oxidoreductase + luciferase (Red + Luc). It was shown that the inhibitory effect of the full-profile soil samples on the Red + Luc system decreased with depth for the 10-year fallow-land and virgin-land samples, which correlated with a decrease in the humic organic matter content in the soils. The inhibitory effect of the agricultural grassland on the Red + Luc enzyme system activity was more complex and involved the presence of the humic organic matter content, as well as the presence of pollutants in the whole-soil profile. However, if the interfering effect of humic organic substances on the Red + Luc system’s activity is taken into account during full-profile soil toxicity assessments, it might help to detect pollutant mobility and its leaching into the subsoil layer. Thus, this bioluminescent method, due to the technical simplicity, rapid response time and high sensitivity, has the potential to be developed as a biological part of the inhibition-based assay and/or biosensors for the preventive tracing of potential full-profile soil contamination.