bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Trajectory-Based Immigration Strategy Genetic Algorithm to Solve a Single-Machine Scheduling Problem with Job Release Times and Flexible Preventive Maintenance
Authors: Huang Shenquan , Tsai Ya-Chih , Chou Fuh-Der
Published: April 2023

This paper considers the single-machine problem with job release times and flexible preventive maintenance activities to minimize total weighted tardiness, a complicated scheduling problem for which many algorithms have been proposed in the literature. However, the considered problems are rarely solved by genetic algorithms (GAs), even though it has successfully solved various complicated combinatorial optimization problems. For the problem, we propose a trajectory-based immigration strategy, where immigrant generation is based on the given information of solution extraction knowledge matrices. We embed the immigration strategy into the GA method to improve the population’s diversification process. To examine the performance of the proposed GA method, two versions of GA methods (the GA without immigration and the GA method with random immigration) and a mixed integer programming (MIP) model are also developed. Comprehensive experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed GA method by comparing the MIP model with two versions of GA methods. Overall, the proposed GA method significantly outperforms the other GA methods regarding solution quality due to the trajectory-based immigration strategy.
A Modular Soft Gripper with Combined Pneu-Net Actuators
Authors: Zhang Xinjie , Yu Shouyi , Dai Jianlong , Oseyemi Ayobami Elisha , Liu Linlin , Du Ningyu , Lv Fangrui
Published: April 2023

Soft Pneumatic-Network (Pneu-Net) Actuators (SPAs) have been used extensively in making soft grippers, due to their simple driving forms and large bending deformation. However, the capabilities of the regular SPAs in complex soft gripping application environments are alone insufficient. This work, thus, proposes a modular soft gripper that combines the functionalities of regular and herringbone actuators. The bending deformation characteristics of the two actuators under pneumatic pressures are verified by finite element (FE) simulations and experiments. The functional characteristics of the two actuators are investigated experimentally through a series of methods including the blocking force test, lifting test, grasping strength test, and suction force test. The experimental results show that the regular actuator has the advantages of greater longitudinal bending deformation and higher blocking force; while, the herringbone actuator has better lifting stability and grasping strength due to its conformal deformations both in longitudinal and transverse directions. In addition, the vacuum experiments demonstrate that the actuators can lift heavy plate-like objects through vacuum suction. Based on the functional behaviors of the two actuators, the proposed modular gripper is loaded onto automatic equipment, and the gripper is tested to hook, grasp, or lift various objects with different shapes, sizes, and weights. In essence, the modular and multi-functional characteristics of the design make it a promising candidate for relatively complex and advanced gripping applications.
Comparing the Carbon Storage Potential of Naturally Regenerated Tea Trees with Default New Zealand Carbon Look-Up Tables: A Case Study
Authors: Wilson Thomas , Grafton Miles , Irwin Matthew
Published: April 2023

The New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme allows landowners to be remunerated for the carbon sequestration capabilities of eligible forests established post 1990. For afforested areas of 100 hectares or fewer, carbon sequestration is estimated with the use of default carbon look-up tables administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries. However, a disparity exists between exotic pines (Pinus radiata), where carbon sequestration predictions are regionally differentiated, and native species, where carbon sequestration estimations are neither distinguished by species or locality. This paper aims to highlight this inequality by comparing the calculated carbon storage of endemic tree species with the ‘Indigenous Forest’ category in the carbon look-up tables. The carbon storage of 12-year-old naturally regenerated tea trees (Leptospermum scoparium and Kunzea ericoides) was calculated using allometric measurements and compared to the look-up tables. The results suggest that carbon look-up tables underestimate the carbon sequestration of native tea trees by 81.8%. A bimodal data distribution suggests that carbon sequestration is heavily dependent on light interception levels. It is recommended that carbon sequestration data for specific native species in different environments are collected and integrated into such tables.
Multi-Year QTL Mapping and RNA-seq Reveal Candidate Genes for Early Floret-Opening Time in Japonica Rice
Authors: Hu Xiaozhou , Chen Guoliang , Zhang Rui , Xu Mengxuan , Zhao Ling , Tang Hailong , Ni Jinlong , Zhou Ming
Published: April 2023

Floret-opening time (FOT) refers to the time between florets opening and closing within a day, and is a crucial agricultural trait for reproductive development, thermal tolerance and hybrid breeding in rice. However, little is known about the genetic basis and genes controlling FOT in rice. Here, we report the genetic mapping and transcriptome analysis of FOT in the japonica rice cultivar G23. Combining the QTLseqr and GradedPool-seq (GPS) methods, we located a major quantitative trait locus (QTL), qFOT6, on chromosome 6 in multiple years and under different environments. Integrating RNA-seq analysis, we selected 13 potential candidate genes in the qFOT6 interval that might be associated with FOT in G23. Taken together, our work uncovers a major QTL and potential candidate genes for FOT in rice, thus providing invaluable clues for rice breeding.
Determining Pollinizer Success Rates among Several Apple (Malus domestica L.) Cultivars Using Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Gasi Fuad , Pojskić Naris , Stroil Belma Kalamujić , Frøynes Oddmund , Fotirić Akšić Milica , Meland Mekjell
Published: April 2023

In order to determine the pollinizer success rates between twelve apple cultivars in 2021 and 2022, 671 apple embryos were collected from 19 different orchards in Ullensvang (southwestern Norway) and Svelvik (southeastern Norway). Genomic DNA was extracted from the collected embryos and, afterward, a genetic characterization with 15 polymorphic microsatellite markers was conducted. An identical set of markers was also used on all twelve mother cultivars, as well as on six crabapple pollinizers, which were found in the investigated orchards. The obtained molecular data enabled paternity analyses to be performed with the objective of assigning a male parent to each embryo. The paternity analyses identified pollen donors for all, except for 3% of the embryos. In most cases, it was possible to identify the most successful pollinizers for each cultivar, with ‘Aroma’ and ‘Discovery’ being the most efficient pollen donors overall. Tree abundance seems to be a major factor in pollinizer success, while semi-cross-compatible characteristics represent a hindrance. Only 7% of the analyzed embryos were determined to have been fertilized by pollinizers outside the orchard, confirming the significance of pollinizer proximity for efficient pollination.
A Method to Predict CO2 Mass Concentration in Sheep Barns Based on the RF-PSO-LSTM Model
Authors: Cen Honglei , Yu Longhui , Pu Yuhai , Li Jingbin , Liu Zichen , Cai Qiang , Liu Shuangyin , Nie Jing , Ge Jianbing , Guo Jianjun , Yang Shuo , Zhao Hangxing , Wang Kang
Published: April 2023

In large-scale meat sheep farming, high CO2 concentrations in sheep sheds can lead to stress and harm the healthy growth of meat sheep, so a timely and accurate understanding of the trend of CO2 concentration and early regulation are essential to ensure the environmental safety of sheep sheds and the welfare of meat sheep. In order to accurately understand and regulate CO2 concentrations in sheep barns, we propose a prediction method based on the RF-PSO-LSTM model. The approach we propose has four main parts. First, to address the problems of data packet loss, distortion, singular values, and differences in the magnitude of the ambient air quality data collected from sheep sheds, we performed data preprocessing using mean smoothing, linear interpolation, and data normalization. Second, to address the problems of many types of ambient air quality parameters in sheep barns and possible redundancy or overlapping information, we used a random forests algorithm (RF) to screen and rank the features affecting CO2 mass concentration and selected the top four features (light intensity, air relative humidity, air temperature, and PM2.5 mass concentration) as the input of the model to eliminate redundant information among the variables. Then, to address the problem of manually debugging the hyperparameters of the long short-term memory model (LSTM), which is time consuming and labor intensive, as well as potentially subjective, we used a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to obtain the optimal combination of parameters, avoiding the disadvantages of selecting hyperparameters based on subjective experience. Finally, we trained the LSTM model using the optimized parameters obtained by the PSO algorithm to obtain the proposed model in this paper. The experimental results show that our proposed model has a root mean square error (RMSE) of 75.422 μg·m−3, a mean absolute error (MAE) of 51.839 μg·m−3, and a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.992. The model prediction curve is close to the real curve and has a good prediction effect, which can be useful for the accurate prediction and regulation of CO2 concentration in sheep barns in large-scale meat sheep farming.
Effects of Phage Cocktail, Probiotics, and Their Combination on Growth Performance and Gut Microbiota of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Shaufi Mohd Asrore Mohd , Sieo Chin Chin , Chong Chun Wie , Geok Hun Tan , Omar Abdul Rahman , Han Ming Gan , Wan Ho Yin
Published: April 2023

Phages, which are often used therapeutically, have begun to receive interest as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) for enhancing chicken growth. Another option that has been extensively studied as a growth promoter in chickens is probiotics. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no study available on the use of phages and probiotics in combination as potential feed additives for broiler chickens. Therefore, this study demonstrated the effects of a phage cocktail, probiotics, and their combination on the growth performance and gut microbiota of broiler chickens. A total of 288 one-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers were randomly allotted to one of six treatments in a completely randomised design. The treatments were (i) C (basal diet (BD) only), (ii) 1ϕ (BD + 0.1% phage cocktail), (iii) 2ϕ (BD + 0.2% phage cocktail), (iv) P (BD + 0.1% probiotic), (v) 1ϕP (BD + 0.1% phage cocktail + 0.1% probiotic), and (vi) 2ϕP (BD + 0.2% phage cocktail + 0.1% probiotic). The 1ϕP treatment had significantly (p < 0.05) better BW (35 days), BWG (22–35 days, 1–35 days), and FCR (1–21 days, 22–35 days, 1–35 days) compared to C. Unique gut microbiota diversity was also found between the ϕP (1ϕP and 2ϕP) and non-ϕP groups (C, 1ϕ, 2ϕ, and P) in ilea, particularly in the 35-day-old chickens. Microorganisms associated with short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) producers were significantly (p < 0.05) more present in the ϕP group than in the non-ϕP group. The predicted genes related to carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism were significantly upregulated in ϕP groups compared to non-ϕP groups. These genes were involved in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, as well as the production of energy. Our findings showed that the 1ϕP treatment could be a potential alternative to AGPs for poultry, as growth performance was enhanced, and gut microbiota was positively modulated.
The Behavior of Some Bacterial Strains Isolated from Fallow Deer Compared to Antimicrobial Substances in Western Romania
Authors: Tîrziu Emil , Bulucea Alexandrina V. , Imre Kalman , Nichita Ileana , Muselin Florin , Dumitrescu Eugenia , Tîrziu Andreea , Mederle Narcisa G. , Moza Alexandru , Bucur Iulia M. , Cristina Romeo T.
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: The resistance levels of Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., etc., isolated from the nasal cavity and the rectum of Dama dama deer from three hunting grounds in Western Romania were assessed. (2) Methods: The analysis was completed using the diffusimetric method, compliant with CLSI reference standards, and with Vitek-2 (BioMérieux, France), on 240 samples. (3) Results: The results were statistically analyzed (by one-way ANOVA) revealing that in four of the ten E. coli strains isolated from animals, 87.5% (p < 0.001) resistance was found. E. coli strains were resistant to cephalexin (100%); seven strains were resistant to cephalothin and ampicillin; six were resistant to cefquinome and cefoperazone; five were resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid; and four were resistant to ceftiofur. However, E. coli was sensitive to amikacin (100%). The most efficient structures were beta-lactams, amikacin, and imipenem, to which all 47 strains studied (100%) were sensitive, followed by nitrofurantoin, to which 45 strains (95.7%) were sensitive, neomycin, to which 44 strains (93.6%) were sensitive, ceftiofur, to which 43 strains (91.5%) were sensitive, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and marbofloxacin, to which 42 strains (89.4%) were sensitive. (4) Conclusions: In wild animal populations, where a human presence is frequently reported, including a constant presence of domestic animals, despite the perceived low risk of emerging resistance to antimicrobials, resistance is likely to develop frequently.
Prevalence and Characterization of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli Isolated from Dogs and Cats in South Korea
Authors: Choi Ji-Hyun , Ali Md. Sekendar , Moon Bo-Youn , Kang Hee-Young , Kim Su-Jeong , Song Hyun-Ju , Mechesso Abraham Fikru , Moon Dong-Chan , Lim Suk-Kyung
Published: April 2023

Overall, 836 Escherichia coli isolates (695 isolates from dogs and 141 from cats) were recovered from the diarrhea, skin/ear, urine, and genitals of dogs and cats between 2018 and 2019. Cefovecin and enrofloxacin resistance were noted in 17.1% and 21.2% of E. coli isolates, respectively. The cefovecin and enrofloxacin resistance rates were higher in dog isolates (18.1% and 22.9%) compared with the rates in cat isolates (12.1%, 12.8%). Interestingly, resistance to both antimicrobials was noted in 10.8% (90/836) of the isolates, predominantly in isolates from dogs. blaCTX-M-14, blaCTX-M-15, and blaCMY-2 were the most frequent extended-spectrum β-lactamase/plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamase (ESBL/AmpC)- gene types. The co-existence of blaCTX-M andblaCMY-2 was noted in six E. coli isolates from dogs. Sequencing analysis demonstrated that S83L and D87N in gyrA and S80I in parC were the most frequent point mutations in the quinolone resistance-determining regions of the cefovecin and enrofloxacin-resistant isolates. A total of 11 isolates from dogs carried the plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes (six aac(6’)-Ib-cr, four qnrS, and one qnrB), while only two cat isolates carried the qnrS gene. Multilocus sequence typing of the cefovecin and enrofloxacin-resistant isolates revealed that sequence type (ST)131 E. coli carrying blaCTX-M-14 and blaCTX-M-15 genes and ST405 E. coli carrying blaCMY-2 gene were predominant among the isolated E. coli strains. The majority of the ESBL/AmpC-producing isolates displayed diverse pulsed-field gel electrophoresis profiles. This study demonstrated that third-generation cephalosporin- and fluoroquinolone-resistant E. coli were widely distributed in companion animals. The detection of the pandemic ST131 clone carrying blaCTX-M-14/15 in companion animals presented a public health threat.
Oxidative-Stress-Related Genes in Osteoporosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: León-Reyes Guadalupe , Argoty-Pantoja Anna D. , Becerra-Cervera Adriana , López-Montoya Priscilla , Rivera-Paredez Berenice , Velázquez-Cruz Rafael
Published: April 2023

Osteoporosis is characterized by a decline in bone mineral density (BMD) and increased fracture risk. Free radicals and antioxidant systems play a central role in bone remodeling. This study was conducted to illustrate the role of oxidative-stress-related genes in BMD and osteoporosis. A systematic review was performed following the PRISMA guidelines. The search was computed in PubMed, Web of Sciences, Scopus, EBSCO, and BVS from inception to November 1st, 2022. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist tool. A total of 427 potentially eligible articles exploring this search question were detected. After removing duplicates (n = 112) and excluding irrelevant manuscripts based on screenings of their titles and abstracts (n = 317), 19 articles were selected for full-text review. Finally, 14 original articles were included in this systematic review after we applied the exclusion and inclusion criteria. Data analyzed in this systematic review indicated that oxidative-stress-related genetic polymorphisms are associated with BMD at different skeletal sites in diverse populations, influencing the risk of osteoporosis or osteoporotic fracture. However, it is necessary to look deep into their association with bone metabolism to determine if the findings can be translated into the clinical management of osteoporosis and its progression.
Mitofilin Heterozygote Mice Display an Increase in Myocardial Injury and Inflammation after Ischemia/Reperfusion
Authors: Feng Yansheng , Imam Aliagan Abdulhafiz , Tombo Nathalie , Bopassa Jean C.
Published: April 2023

Mitochondrial inner membrane protein (Mitofilin/Mic60) is part of a big complex that constituent the mitochondrial inner membrane organizing system (MINOS), which plays a critical role in maintaining mitochondrial architecture and function. We recently showed that Mitofilin physically binds to Cyclophilin D, and disruption of this interaction promotes the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) and determines the extent of I/R injury. Here, we investigated whether Mitofilin knockout in the mouse enhances myocardial injury and inflammation after I/R injury. We found that full-body deletion (homozygote) of Mitofilin induces a lethal effect in the offspring and that a single allele expression of Mitofilin is sufficient to rescue the mouse phenotype in normal conditions. Using non-ischemic hearts from wild-type (WT) and Mitofilin+/− (HET) mice, we report that the mitochondria structure and calcium retention capacity (CRC) required to induce the opening of mPTP were similar in both groups. However, the levels of mitochondrial dynamics proteins involved in both fusion/fission, including MFN2, DRP1, and OPA1, were slightly reduced in Mitofilin+/− mice compared to WT. After I/R, the CRC and cardiac functional recovery were reduced while the mitochondria structure was more damaged, and myocardial infarct size was increased in Mitofilin+/− mice compared to WT. Mitofilin+/− mice exhibited an increase in the mtDNA release in the cytosol and ROS production, as well as dysregulated SLC25As (3, 5, 11, and 22) solute carrier function, compared to WT. In addition, Mitofilin+/− mice displayed an increase in the transcript of pro-inflammatory markers, including IL-6, ICAM, and TNF-α. These results suggest that Mitofilin knockdown induces mitochondrial cristae damage that promotes dysregulation of SLC25As solute carriers, leading to an increase in ROS production and reduction in CRC after I/R. These effects are associated with an increase in the mtDNA release into the cytosol, where it activates signaling cascades leading to nuclear transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines that aggravate I/R injury.
KDELC2 Upregulates Glioblastoma Angiogenesis via Reactive Oxygen Species Activation and Tumor-Associated Macrophage Proliferation
Authors: Tsai Yu-Ling , Chen Ying , Chen Ying-Chuan , Tsai Wen-Chiuan
Published: April 2023

Glioblastoma is notorious for its rapid progression and neovascularization. In this study, it was found that KDEL (Lys-Asp-Glu-Leu) containing 2 (KDELC2) stimulated vasculogenic factor expression and induced human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation. The NLRP3 inflammasome and autophagy activation via hypoxic inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was also confirmed. The application of the NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor MCC950 and autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) indicated that the above phenomenon activation correlated with an endothelial overgrowth. Furthermore, KDELC2 suppression decreased the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress factors’ expression. The ER stress inhibitors, such as salubrinal and GSK2606414, significantly suppressed HUVEC proliferation, indicating that ER stress promotes glioblastoma vascularization. Finally, shKDELC2 glioblastoma-conditioned medium (CM) stimulated TAM polarization and induced THP-1 cells to transform into M1 macrophages. In contrast, THP-1 cells co-cultured with compensatory overexpressed (OE)-KDELC2 glioblastoma cells increased IL-10 secretion, a biomarker of M2 macrophages. HUVECs co-cultured with shKDELC2 glioblastoma-polarized THP-1 cells were less proliferative, demonstrating that KDELC2 promotes angiogenesis. Mito-TEMPO and MCC950 increased caspase-1p20 and IL-1β expression in THP-1 macrophages, indicating that mitochondrial ROS and autophagy could also interrupt THP-1-M1 macrophage polarization. In conclusion, mitochondrial ROS, ER stress, and the TAMs resulting from OE-KDELC2 glioblastoma cells play important roles in upregulating glioblastoma angiogenesis.
A Method Based on Blackbody to Estimate Actual Radiation of Measured Cooperative Target Using an Infrared Thermal Imager
Authors: Yang Mingyu , Xu Liang , Tan Xin , Shen Honghai
Published: April 2023

Infrared signature of targets is one important approach for target detection and recognition. When measuring the infrared signature of a target in the atmosphere, it is necessary to take the atmospheric transmittance and atmospheric radiation between the measured target and the observer into account. In this study, a blackbody-based approach for estimating atmospheric transmittance and atmospheric radiation is proposed to improve accuracy. Radiometric calibration is first carried out in the laboratory for the infrared thermal imager to determine the slope and offset used in the linear regression. With a set of different temperatures, radiance of the blackbody and digital number value of images are calculated. Finally, according to the analytical expressions derived, the atmospheric transmittance and atmospheric radiation are determined, and actual radiance for the cooperative target is calculated. Results demonstrate that the uncertainty of the actual radiance of measured cooperative target calculated via the proposed method is lower than that by MODTRAN, from MODTRAN at 5.7% and 16.7%, from proposed method at 2.56% and 10.2% in two experiments.
A Method Improves Speech Recognition with Contrastive Learning in Low-Resource Languages
Authors: Sun Lixu , Yolwas Nurmemet , Jiang Lina
Published: April 2023

Building an effective automatic speech recognition system typically requires a large amount of high-quality labeled data; However, this can be challenging for low-resource languages. Currently, self-supervised contrastive learning has shown promising results in low-resource automatic speech recognition, but there is no discussion on the quality of negative sample sets in speech contrastive learning. In this paper, we propose the false negatives impact elimination (FNIE) method to filter false negative samples and improve the quality of the negative sample set in speech. FNIE compares the support vector with the negative sample vector set and optimizes the corresponding loss function, allowing the model to learn better speech representations and achieve superior results in low-resource speech recognition. Experiments demonstrate that FNIE effectively filters negative samples, enhances the quality of the negative sample set, and improves the accuracy of speech recognition. The quality of the negative sample set significantly affects the model’s learning ability, and using too many negative samples can deteriorate it. In a low-resource setting, our FNIE method achieved a relative improvement of 2.98% in WER on the English dataset, 14.3% in WER on the Uyghur dataset, and 4.04% in CER on the Mandarin dataset compared to the baseline model.
Calculation Method of Stable Bearing Capacity of Fastener-Type Steel Pipe Formwork Support Upright Rod
Authors: Ji Meng , Zeng Fankui , Dong Yiping , Fan Yuchuan
Published: April 2023

In this paper, the torsional moment of the right-angle fastener bolt is taken as the main research parameter, and the torsional stiffness performance of the right-angle fastener under different working conditions is studied experimentally. By establishing the moment–rotation relationship model of the node, the mechanical performance and rotation characteristics of the semirigid connection of the node are studied. According to the joint stiffness value determined by the experimental study and the theory of semirigid connection frame with lateral displacement, the calculation formulas of the stiffness correction coefficient αu of the transverse bar and the constraint coefficient K at the end of the vertical bar are derived, and the effective length coefficient μ of the vertical bar and the theoretical value of the stable bearing capacity of the vertical bar under different working conditions are given. Compared with the current standard values, it is found that the theoretical calculation results of the percentage increase of the stable bearing capacity of the vertical bar are 3 to 4 times larger than the standard calculation results when the step distance is reduced. The theoretical calculation method can better consider the semirigid characteristics of the joint and the influence of adjacent members on the stable bearing capacity of the vertical bar.
Seismic Interferometry Method Based on Hierarchical Frequency Fusion and Its Application in Microtremor Survey
Authors: Mou Xingang , Wan Xingyuan , Liu Hongyue , Zheng Jinhuo , Zhou Xiao , Zhou Bin
Published: April 2023

Site velocity structure determination and stratigraphic division are important purposes of microtremor survey, and the precision of dispersion curves is an important factor affecting the accuracy of microtremor survey. In order to obtain more accurate dispersion curve and S-wave velocity structure, this paper proposed a dispersion curve processing method based on hierarchical frequency fusion of seismic interferometry. Analysis was performed on the link between station pair spacing and frequency component of the collected microtremor signal dependability and exploration depth. A mathematical model of station distances and reliable frequencies of the dispersion curves were achieved through a hierarchical relationship between station distances. Then, a fusion criterion was proposed to determine the fusion boundary based on the reliable frequency, and the dispersion curves of station pairs with different distances were fused to obtain the final dispersion curve. Finally, a more accurate velocity structure was obtained through s-wave velocity conversion from shallow layers to deep ones. The method was applied to the microtremor survey of the proposed high-rise building site in Xiamen. The rectangular observation array was arranged, and the dispersion curves were extracted and processed using hierarchical frequency fusion and traditional superimposed averaging method, and the S-wave velocity and stratigraphic structure were obtained. The experimental results show that the S-wave velocity and stratigraphic structure obtained using the hierarchical frequency fusion method are in better agreement with the borehole results than the superimposed averaging method, which shows its effectiveness and application prospect.
Aerothermoelastic Analysis of Conical Shell in Supersonic Flow
Authors: Wang Min , Zeng Leilei , Zhao Changying , Sun Shupeng , Yang Yang
Published: April 2023

The aerothermoelastic behavior of a conical shell in supersonic flow is studied in the paper. According to Love’s first approximation shell theory, the kinetic energy and strain energy of the conical shell are expressed and the aerodynamic model is established by using the linear piston theory with a curvature correction term. By taking the characteristic orthogonal polynomial series as the admissible functions, the mode function of conical shell under different boundary conditions can be obtained using the Rayleigh–Ritz method. Then, the dynamic model of the conical shell is derived by using the Lagrange equation. Based on the model, variations in the natural frequencies with respect to temperature and free-stream static pressure are analyzed. Additionally, the effects of the length-to-radius ratio, the thickness-to-radius ratio, and semi-vertex angle, as well as the thermal and aerodynamic loads on the aerothermoelastic stability of the structure are investigated in detail.
Configuration Optimization and Response Prediction Method of the Clamping Robot for Vibration Suppression of Cantilever Workpiece
Authors: Wang Pinzhang , Tian Wei , Li Bo , Miao Yunfei
Published: April 2023

Cantilever workpieces are widely used in the aerospace field; they produce vibrations easily and affect machining quality under the action of external forces. Enhancing the stiffness of the workpiece using a robot as a fixture is an effective means to solve this problem. However, the vibration suppression effect of the clamping system depends on the dynamics performance of different configurations of the robot. Therefore, in order to obtain the optimal clamping robot configuration, the system dynamics model composed of automated guided vehicle (AGV)-robot-gripper-workpiece (ARGW) is established based on the transfer matrix method of the multibody system (MSTMM), and the vibration responses of the workpiece under different configurations are analyzed. Then, a robot configuration optimization method based on workpiece response was proposed. Finally, the effectiveness of the optimization method is verified through simulations and experiments at different clamping robot configurations. The dynamics model and optimization method in this paper can be used to predict the workpiece vibration response and choose a reasonable clamping robot configuration, avoiding the reduction in workpiece machining quality due to the improper configuration of the clamping robot.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Electric Vehicle Charging Station Deployment Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Lazari Vasiliki , Chassiakos Athanasios
Published: April 2023

The incorporation of electric vehicles into the transportation system is imperative in order to mitigate the environmental impact of fossil fuel use. This requires establishing methods for deploying the charging infrastructure in an optimal way. In this paper, an optimization model is developed to identify both the number of stations to be deployed and their respective locations that minimize the total cost by utilizing Genetic Algorithms. This is implemented by combining these components into a linear objective function aiming to minimize the overall cost of deploying the charging network and maximize service quality to users by minimizing the average travel distance between demand spots and stations. Several numerical and practical considerations have been analyzed to provide an in-depth study and a deeper understanding of the model’s capabilities. The optimization is done through commercial software that is appropriately parametrized to adjust to the specific problem. The model is simple yet effective in solving a variety of problem structures, optimization goals and constraints. Further, the quality of the solution seems to be marginally affected by the shape and size of the problem area, as well as the number of demand spots, and this may be considered one of the strengths of the algorithm. The model responds expectedly to variations in the charging demand levels and can effectively run at different levels of grid discretization.
Toxic and Biodegradation Potential of Waste Tires for Microorganisms Based on Two Experimental Designs
Authors: Kobetičová Klára , Fořt Jan , Černý Robert
Published: April 2023

Waste tires from traffic are a well-known environmental problem today. For this reason, the toxicity and potential biodegradation of crushed tires were tested in a respiration test with microorganisms. A non-specific soil microbial community was used. Two experimental designs and their effect on the results were compared—a test with the eluate from tires and a contact test, i.e., the solution containing tire particles during the test. The consumption of dissolved oxygen was measured in the assay over 28 days. The values obtained indicated zero biodegradation of all samples, but the toxicity of the eluates to microorganisms was different depending on whether the microorganisms were exposed only to the leachate or whether tire shred particles were still present in the leachate. In the presence of particles in solutions, the toxicity of the samples for microorganisms was higher. Additionally, the MTT (methyl tetrazolium test) viability assay was performed. The results indicated a 28% inhibition of the viability of microorganisms in samples with tire particles in comparison with eluate, where 9% inhibition was observed. The results confirmed that the contact assay (with the presence of particles) is a more natural and thorough method than the use of leachate.
The Plasma Ozonizer System for Mangosteen Storage Container to Preserve the Quality of Mangosteen
Authors: Chankuson Pitchasak , Chumsri Paramee
Published: April 2023

This research aims to produce ozone using a dielectric barrier discharge to extend the shelf life and preserve the quality of mangosteen. The optimum condition of this system was a minimum breakdown voltage of about 6 kVp-p, a resonance frequency of 224 kHz, and an oxygen flow rate of 2 L/min. The findings demonstrate that the maximal ethylene concentration value of treated fruit with ozone from oxygen flow rates 2 L/min lower than untreated fruit was approximately 11-fold. The L*, a*, b*, weight loss percentage, pericarp firmness value, and sensory evaluation were used to assess the quality of mangosteen. Compared to control fruit at 15 °C, fruit treated with ozone can have a prolonged shelf life of 9 days. Furthermore, assessing the quality and sensory score indicates that ozonation preserves the sensory quality of mangosteen. The weight loss percentage and pericarp firmness of fruit-treated ozone compared with the control were decreased by 3.34% and increased by 11.18 N, respectively. The sensory score of the fruit treated with ozone was higher than the control fruit, significantly different (p < 0.05).
Bioavailability of Citrulline in Watermelon Flesh, Rind, and Skin Using a Human Intestinal Epithelial Caco-2 Cell Model
Authors: Gu Inah , Balogun Olugbenga , Brownmiller Cindi , Kang Hye Won , Lee Sun-Ok
Published: April 2023

Watermelon produces many byproducts (watermelon rind and skin) even though those components contain various bioactive compounds, including citrulline. This study evaluated the citrulline concentration, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP assays) of different parts of watermelon and investigated the bioavailability of citrulline from different parts of watermelon using an in vitro human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cell monolayer model. Solid-phase extracted watermelon flesh, rind, and skin samples were treated on a Caco-2 cell monolayer for 1, 2, and 4 h. The collected basolateral solution at each time point was analyzed for the percentage of citrulline transport. Watermelon flesh had the highest citrulline content, but the watermelon skin had the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant activity compared to other watermelon parts. The citrulline bioavailability showed greater % transport in watermelon skin than in watermelon flesh, rind, and L-citrulline standard. It may be due to the different food matrices of watermelon parts. This suggests that the utilization of watermelon by-products such as skin would help develop value-added products with better bioavailability of citrulline. However, since this study was conducted with an in vitro cell model, more extensive research with in vivo studies will be needed.
Rainfall Similarity Search Based on Deep Learning by Using Precipitation Images
Authors: Yu Yufeng , He Xingu , Zhu Yuelong , Wan Dingsheng
Published: April 2023

Precipitation images play an important role in meteorological forecasting and flood forecasting, but how to characterize precipitation images and conduct rainfall similarity analysis is challenging and meaningful work. This paper proposes a rainfall similarity research method based on deep learning by using precipitation images. The algorithm first extracts regional precipitation, precipitation distribution, and precipitation center of the precipitation images and defines the similarity measures, respectively. Additionally, an ensemble weighting method of Normalized Discounted Cumulative Gain-Improved Particle Swarm Optimization (NDCG-IPSO) is proposed to weigh and fuse the three extracted features as the similarity measure of the precipitation image. During the experiment on similarity search for daily precipitation images in the Jialing River basin, the NDCG@10 of the search results reached 0.964, surpassing other methods. This indicates that the method proposed in this paper can better characterize the spatiotemporal characteristics of the precipitation image, thereby discovering similar rainfall processes and providing new ideas for hydrological forecasting.
Impact Testing on the Pristine and Repaired Composite Materials for Aerostructures
Authors: Hall Zoe E. C. , Liu Jun , Brooks Richard A. , Liu Haibao , Dear John P.
Published: April 2023

Aircraft technologies and materials have been developing and improving drastically over the last hundred years. Over the last three decades, an interest in the use of composites for external structures has become prominent. For this to be possible, thorough research on the performance of composite materials, specifically the impact performance, have been carried out. For example, research of impact testing for pristine carbon-reinforced epoxy composites mentions matrix cracks, fibre fracture, and delamination as the failure modes that require monitoring. In addition, thorough testing has been carried out on composites repaired with an adhesive bond to observe the effects of conditioning on the adhesively bonded repair. The results suggest there are no major changes in the adhesive under the testing condition. By reviewing the impact testing on the pristine and repaired composite materials for aerostructures, this paper aims to illustrate the main findings and also explore the potential future work in this research scope.
An Experimental Framework of Particulate Matter Emission Factor Development for Traffic Modeling
Authors: Zhu Sicong , Qiao Yongdi , Peng Wenjie , Zhao Qi , Li Zhen , Liu Xiaoting , Wang Hao , Song Guohua , Yu Lei , Shi Lei , Lan Qing
Published: April 2023

To estimate traffic facility-oriented particulate matter (PM) emissions, emission factors are both necessary and critical for traffic planners and the community of traffic professionals. This study used locally calibrated laser-scattering sensors to collect PM emission concentrations in a tunnel. Emission factors of both light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles were found to be higher in autumn compared to summer. Based on this study’s data analysis, PM emissions, in terms of mass, have a strong seasonal effect. The study also conducted a PM composition test on normal days and during haze events. Preliminary results suggested that the transformation of gaseous tailpipe emissions to PM is significant within the tunnel during a haze event. This study, therefore, recommends locally calibrated portable devices to monitor mobile-source traffic emissions. The study suggests that emission factor estimation of traffic modeling packages should consider the dynamic PM formation mechanism. The study also presents traffic policy implications regarding PM emission control.
Predicting Colorectal Cancer Using Machine and Deep Learning Algorithms: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Alboaneen Dabiah , Alqarni Razan , Alqahtani Sheikah , Alrashidi Maha , Alhuda Rawan , Alyahyan Eyman , Alshammari Turki
Published: April 2023

One of the three most serious and deadly cancers in the world is colorectal cancer. The most crucial stage, like with any cancer, is early diagnosis. In the medical industry, artificial intelligence (AI) has recently made tremendous strides and showing promise for clinical applications. Machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) applications have recently gained popularity in the analysis of medical texts and images due to the benefits and achievements they have made in the early diagnosis of cancerous tissues and organs. In this paper, we intend to systematically review the state-of-the-art research on AI-based ML and DL techniques applied to the modeling of colorectal cancer. All research papers in the field of colorectal cancer are collected based on ML and DL techniques, and they are then classified into three categories: the aim of the prediction, the method of the prediction, and data samples. Following that, a thorough summary and a list of the studies gathered under each topic are provided. We conclude our study with a critical discussion of the challenges and opportunities in colorectal cancer prediction using ML and DL techniques by concentrating on the technical and medical points of view. Finally, we believe that our study will be helpful to scientists who are considering employing ML and DL methods to diagnose colorectal cancer.
Different SO2 Doses and the Impact on Amino Acid and Volatile Profiles of White Wines
Authors: Santos Cátia V. Almeida , Pereira Catarina , Martins Nuno , Cabrita Maria João , Gomes da Silva Marco
Published: April 2023

SO2 is a preservative often used in the food industry, particularly in the wine industry. However, regulatory authorities and consumers have been strongly suggesting its reduction or even its replacement. In order to understand the impact of SO2 on the profiles of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as well as amino acids (AAs), the aging of two white wines (one being a varietal and another being a blend) under identical conditions and in the presence of different doses of total SO2 was studied. After alcoholic fermentation (t = 0), either no SO2 was added (0 mg/L), or 30, 60, 90, or 120 mg/L of SO2 was applied. The samples under study were kept on fine lees for 3 months (t = 3). After 3 months (t = 6) and 9 months (t = 12), the wines were bottled and analyzed. For t = 0 and t = 3, the samples were submitted to HS-SPME-GC/MS for VOC analysis and LC-DAD for AA analysis. From the principal component analysis of the detected VOCs, it was observed that the blended wine in comparison with the varietal wine, was less impacted by the applied SO2 doses and aging time. From the AA profile, it was also observed in this study that maturation on fine lees resulted in an increase in the total concentration of AAs as would be expected.
Walking Stability and Risk of Falls
Authors: Promsri Arunee , Cholamjiak Prasit , Federolf Peter
Published: April 2023

Walking stability is considered a necessary physical performance for preserving independence and preventing falls. The current study investigated the correlation between walking stability and two clinical markers for falling risk. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to extract the three-dimensional (3D) lower-limb kinematic data of 43 healthy older adults (69.8 ± 8.5 years, 36 females) into a set of principal movements (PMs), showing different movement components/synergies working together to accomplish the walking task goal. Then, the largest Lyapunov exponent (LyE) was applied to the first five PMs as a measure of stability, with the interpretation that the higher the LyE, the lower the stability of individual movement components. Next, the fall risk was determined using two functional motor tests—a Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and a Gait Subscale of Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA-G)—of which the higher the test score, the better the performance. The main results show that SPPB and POMA-G scores negatively correlate with the LyE seen in specific PMs (p ≤ 0.009), indicating that increasing walking instability increases the fall risk. The current findings suggest that inherent walking instability should be considered when assessing and training the lower limbs to reduce the risk of falling.
Analysis of Dental Enamel Remineralization: A Systematic Review of Technique Comparisons
Authors: Malcangi Giuseppina , Patano Assunta , Morolla Roberta , De Santis Matteo , Piras Fabio , Settanni Vito , Mancini Antonio , Di Venere Daniela , Inchingolo Francesco , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Dipalma Gianna , Inchingolo Angelo Michele
Published: April 2023

The demineralization process conditions the structure of the enamel and begins with a superficial decalcification procedure that makes the enamel surface porous and gives it a chalky appearance. White spot lesions (WSLs) are the first clinical sign that can be appreciated before caries evolves into cavitated lesions. The years of research have led to the testing of several remineralization techniques. This study’s objective is to investigate and assess the various methods for remineralizing enamel. The dental enamel remineralization techniques have been evaluated. A literature search on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed. After screening, identification, and eligibility processes 17 papers were selected for the qualitative analysis. This systematic review identified several materials that, whether used singly or in combination, can be effective in the process of remineralizing enamel. All methods have a potential for remineralization when they come into contact with tooth enamel surfaces that have early-stage caries (white spot lesions). From the studies conducted in the test, all of the substances used to which fluoride has been added contribute to remineralization. It is believed that by developing and researching new remineralization techniques, this process might develop even more successfully.
The Emerging Role of IL-9 in the Anticancer Effects of Anti-PD-1 Therapy
Authors: Vinokurova Daria , Apetoh Lionel
Published: April 2023

PD-1 blockade rescues failing anticancer immune responses, resulting in durable remissions in some cancer patients. Cytokines such as IFNγ and IL-2 contribute to the anti-tumor effect of PD-1 blockade. IL-9 was identified over the last decade as a cytokine demonstrating a potent ability to harness the anticancer functions of innate and adaptive immune cells in mice. Recent translational investigations suggest that the anticancer activity of IL-9 also extends to some human cancers. Increased T cell-derived IL-9 was proposed to predict the response to anti-PD-1 therapy. Preclinical investigations accordingly revealed that IL-9 could synergize with anti-PD-1 therapy in eliciting anticancer responses. Here, we review the findings suggesting an important contribution of IL-9 in the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy and discuss their clinical relevance. We will also discuss the role of host factors like the microbiota and TGFβ in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the regulation of IL-9 secretion and anti-PD-1 treatment efficacy.