bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Living Grass Mulch on Soil Properties and Assessment of Soil Quality in Chinese Apple Orchards: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tang Wenzheng , Yang Haosheng , Wang Wene , Wang Chunxia , Pang Yaoyue , Chen Dianyu , Hu Xiaotao
Published: August 2022

Soil degradation has exacerbated the gap between crop yield and increasing food demands, and unreasonable field management is one of the main reasons for soil degradation. As a classic orchard soil management mode, living grass mulch can effectively change the hydrothermal environment and soil physicochemical properties of the ‘soil–vegetation–atmosphere’ microclimate of apple orchards. However, these improvement effects are mainly affected by climatic conditions, mulch methods, vegetation varieties and continuous grass-growing years. To evaluate the different effects of living grass mulch and the main influencing factors on soil physicochemical properties of apple orchards in China, in this study, we conducted a meta-analysis using data from 53 peer-reviewed publications to carry out soil quality assessment. The results showed that compared with clear tillage, continuous living grass mulch in apple orchards could improve soil function and performance by about 56% and increase soil enzyme activities by 10–120%, on average, whereas the soil organic matter under the effect of artificial grass and natural grass significantly increased by 29.6% and 14.6%, respectively. Artificial grass in temperate and warm, temperate, semi-humid climate regions had a greater overall improvement effect on the soil physicochemical environment than natural grass. Clover was found to be the most suitable for planting in apple orchards in temperate, semi-humid climate regions, whereas both clover and ryegrass were the best choices in warm, temperate, semi-humid climate regions. The interaction effects of different soil physicochemical properties in apple orchards in warm, temperate, semi-humid climate regions were greater than those in warm, temperate, arid climates and temperate, semi-humid climate regions. The response sensitivity of soil organic matter, organic carbon, urease, catalase, sucrose and cellulase to the living grass mulch effect of apple orchards was greater than that of other soil properties.
Pruritus in Chronic Kidney Disease: An Update
Authors: Wang Claire C. Y. , Wu Henry H. L. , Ponnusamy Arvind , Pye Isobel , Woywodt Alexander
Published: August 2022

Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKDaP) is an often under-diagnosed and under-recognized condition, despite its considerable prevalence within the chronic kidney disease (CKD) population. Universally accepted guidelines are also lacking. The true prevalence of CKDaP worldwide therefore remains unknown, although its negative impact on mortality and health-related quality of life outcomes is very clear. The pathophysiological mechanisms leading to the onset of CKDaP are only partly understood. CKDaP is currently believed to be caused by a multifactorial process, from local skin changes, metabolic alterations, the development of neuropathy and dysregulation of opioid pathways, and psychological factors. Much work has been carried out towards a more systematic and structured approach to clinical diagnosis. Various tools are now available to assess the severity of CKDaP. Many of these tools require greater validation before they can be incorporated into the guidelines and into routine clinical practice. Further efforts are also needed in order to increase the awareness of clinicians and patients so that they can identify the CKDaP signs and symptoms in a timely manner. Currently established treatment options for CKDaP focus on the prevention of xerosis via topical emollients, the optimization of dialysis management, early referral to kidney transplantation if appropriate, oral antihistamine, and a variety of neuropathic agents. Other novel treatment options include the following: topical analgesics, topical tacrolimus, cannabinoid-containing compounds, antidepressants, oral leukotrienes, opioids, and non-pharmacological alternative therapies (i.e., phototherapy, dietary supplements, acupuncture/acupressure). We provide an updated review on the evidence relating to the epidemiology, the pathophysiology, the clinical assessment and diagnosis, and the management of CKDaP.
Island Life: Use of Activity Budgets and Visibility to Evaluate a Multi-Species Within-Zoo Exhibit Move
Authors: Finch Katherine , Waterman James O. , Cowl Veronica B. , Marshall Ashleigh , Underwood Lydia , Williams Leah J. , Davis Nick , Holmes Lisa
Published: August 2022

Modern zoos strive to construct habitats which both enable and encourage animals to engage in species-specific behaviour, without compromising their visibility to visitors. Here, we present the findings of a within-zoo move to a custom-built exhibit (Islands at Chester Zoo, UK) with respect to the behaviour of four mammal species; the Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii), crested macaque (Macaca nigra), Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus) and the Malayan sun bear (Helarctos malayanus). We used full activity budgets along with Compositional Data Analysis (CoDA) to gain insight into how the move to a more naturalistic exhibit influenced behaviour. Engagement in abnormal behaviour remained low during the study period for all four species, suggesting no adverse responses to the change in environment. Following the move, both the non-human primate species spent more time engaged in positive social interactions with conspecifics, highlighting the importance of social support during enclosure moves. Time spent visible to the public was largely unaffected by the enclosure move for the Sumatran orangutan, whilst the movement to a new environment increased visibility for the Malayan sun bear and decreased visibility for the crested macaque and Malayan tapir. We demonstrate the value of monitoring behaviour throughout the translocation of zoo-housed species and outline the positive behavioral impacts of providing individuals with naturalistic, species-appropriate environments.
Genome-Wide Associative Study of Phenotypic Parameters of the 3D Body Model of Aberdeen Angus Cattle with Multiple Depth Cameras
Authors: Ruchay Alexey , Kolpakov Vladimir , Kosyan Dianna , Rusakova Elena , Dorofeev Konstantin , Guo Hao , Ferrari Giovanni , Pezzuolo Andrea
Published: August 2022

In beef cattle breeding, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) arrays can reveal many loci of various production traits, such as growth, productivity, and meat quality. With the development of genome sequencing technologies, new opportunities are opening up for more accurate identification of areas associated with these traits. This article aims to develop a novel approach to the lifetime evaluation of cattle by 3-D visualization of economic-biological and genetic features. The purpose of this study was to identify significant variants underlying differences in the qualitative characteristics of meat, using imputed data on the sequence of the entire genome. Samples of biomaterial of young Aberdeen-Angus breed cattle (n = 96) were the material for carrying out genome-wide SNP genotyping. Genotyping was performed using a high-density DNA chip Bovine GPU HD BeadChip (Illumina Inc., San Diego, CA, USA), containing ~150 thousand SNPs. The following indicators were selected as phenotypic features: chest width and chest girth retrieved by 3-D model and meat output on the bones. Correlation analysis showed a reliable positive relationship between chest width and meat output on the bones, which can potentially be used for lifetime evaluation of meat productivity of animals.
Effect of Different Ambient Temperatures on Reproductive Outcome and Stress Level of Lactating Females in Two Mouse Strains
Authors: Kolbe Thomas , Lassnig Caroline , Poelzl Andrea , Palme Rupert , Auer Kerstin E. , Rülicke Thomas
Published: August 2022

Ambient temperature is an important non-biotic environmental factor influencing immunological and oncological parameters in laboratory mice. It is under discussion which temperature is more appropriate and whether the commonly used room temperature in rodent facilities of about 21 °C represents a chronic cold stress or the 30 °C of the thermoneutral zone constitutes heat stress for the animals. In this study, we selected the physiological challenging period of lactation to investigate the influence of a cage temperature of 20 °C, 25 °C, and 30 °C, respectively, on reproductive performance and stress hormone levels in two frequently used mouse strains. We found that B6D2F1 hybrid mothers weaned more pups compared to C57BL/6N mothers, and that the number of weaned pups was reduced when mothers of both strains were kept at 30 °C. Furthermore, at 30 °C, mothers and pups showed reduced body weight at weaning and offspring had longer tails. Despite pronounced temperature effects on reproductive parameters, we did not find any temperature effects on adrenocortical activity in breeding and control mice. Independent of the ambient temperature, however, we found that females raising pups showed elevated levels of faecal corticosterone metabolites (FCMs) compared to controls. Peak levels of stress hormone metabolites were measured around birth and during the third week of lactation. Our results provide no evidence of an advantage for keeping lactating mice in ambient temperatures near the thermoneutral zone. In contrast, we found that a 30 °C cage temperature during lactation reduced body mass in females and their offspring and declined female reproductive performance.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Circulating Leukocytes Obtained during the Recovery from Clinical Mastitis Caused by Escherichia coli in Holstein Dairy Cows
Authors: Cheng Zhangrui , Palma-Vera Sergio , Buggiotti Laura , Salavati Mazdak , Becker Frank , Werling Dirk , Wathes D. Claire ,   GplusE Consortium
Published: August 2022

The risk and severity of clinical infection with Escherichia coli as a causative pathogen for bovine mastitis is influenced by the hosts’ phenotypic and genotypic variables. We used RNA-Seq analysis of circulating leukocytes to investigate global transcriptomic profiles and genetic variants from Holstein cows with naturally occurring cases of clinical mastitis, diagnosed using clinical symptoms and milk microbiology. Healthy lactation-matched cows served as controls (CONT, n = 6). Blood samples were collected at two time periods during the recovery phase post diagnosis: EARLY (10.3 ± 1.8 days, n = 6) and LATE (46.7 ± 11 days, n = 3). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the groups were identified using CLC Genomics Workbench V21 and subjected to enrichment analysis. Variant calling was performed following GATKv3.8 best practice. The comparison of E. coli(+) EARLY and CONT cows found the up-regulation of 1090 DEGs, mainly with immune and inflammatory functions. The key signalling pathways involved NOD-like and interleukin-1 receptors and chemokines. Many up-regulated DEGs encoded antimicrobial peptides including cathelicidins, beta-defensins, S100 calcium binding proteins, haptoglobin and lactoferrin. Inflammation had largely resolved in the E. coli(+) LATE group, with only 29 up-regulated DEGs. Both EARLY and LATE cows had up-regulated DEGs encoding ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters and haemoglobin subunits were also up-regulated in LATE cows. Twelve candidate genetic variants were identified in DEGs between the infected and CONT cows. Three were in contiguous genes WIPI1, ARSG and SLC16A6 on BTA19. Two others (RAC2 and ARHGAP26) encode a Rho-family GTPase and Rho GTPase-activating protein 26. These results show that the initial inflammatory response to E. coli continued for at least 10 days despite prompt treatment and provide preliminary evidence for genetic differences between cows that may predispose them to infection.
Genetic Diversity of Virulent Polymyxin-Resistant Klebsiella aerogenes Isolated from Intensive Care Units
Authors: da Silva Kesia Esther , de Almeida de Souza Gleyce Hellen , Moura Quézia , Rossato Luana , Limiere Letícia Cristina , Vasconcelos Nathalie Gaebler , Simionatto Simone
Published: August 2022

This study evaluated the scope and genetic basis of polymyxin-resistant Klebsiella aerogenes in Brazil. Eight polymyxin-resistant and carbapenemase-producing K. aerogenes strains were isolated from patients admitted to the ICU of a tertiary hospital. Bacterial species were identified by automated systems and antimicrobial susceptibility profile was confirmed using broth microdilution. The strains displayed a multidrug resistant profile and were subjected to whole-genome sequencing. Bioinformatic analysis revealed a variety of antimicrobial resistance genes, including the blaKPC-2. No plasmid-mediated colistin resistance gene was identified. Nonetheless, nonsynonymous mutations in mgrB, pmrA, pmrB, and eptA were detected, justifying the colistin resistance phenotype. Virulence genes encoding yersiniabactin, colibactin, and aerobactin were also found, associated with ICEKp4 and ICEKp10, and might be related to the high mortality observed among the patients. In fact, this is the first time ICEKp is identified in K. aerogenes in Brazil. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the strains into two clonal groups, belonging to ST93 and ST16. In summary, the co-existence of antimicrobial resistance and virulence factors is deeply worrying, as it could lead to the emergence of untreatable invasive infections. All these factors reinforce the need for surveillance programs to monitor the evolution and dissemination of multidrug resistant and virulent strains among critically ill patients.
Rapid Detection of Plasmid AmpC Beta-Lactamases by a Flow Cytometry Assay
Authors: Martins-Oliveira Inês , Pérez-Viso Blanca , Silva-Dias Ana , Gomes Rosário , Peixe Luísa , Novais Ângela , Cantón Rafael , Pina-Vaz Cidália
Published: August 2022

Plasmidic AmpC (pAmpC) enzymes are responsible for the hydrolysis of extended-spectrum cephalosporins but they are not routinely investigated in many clinical laboratories. Phenotypic assays, currently the reference methods, are cumbersome and culture dependent. These methods compare the activity of cephalosporins with and without class C inhibitors and the results are provided in 24–48 h. Detection by molecular methods is quicker, but several genes should be investigated. A new assay for the rapid phenotypic detection of pAmpC enzymes of the Enterobacterales group-I (not usually AmpC producers) based on flow cytometry technology was developed and validated. The technology was evaluated in two sites: FASTinov, a spin-off of Porto University (Portugal) where the technology was developed, and the Microbiology Department of Ramón y Cajal University Hospital in Madrid (Spain). A total of 100 strains were phenotypically screened by disk diffusion for the pAmpC with the new 2 h assay. Molecular detection of the pAmpC genes was also performed on discrepant results. Forty-two percent of the strains were phenotypically classified as pAmpC producers using disk diffusion. The percentage of agreement of the flow cytometric assay was 93.0%, with 95.5% sensitivity and 91.1% specificity. Our proposed rapid assay based on flow cytometry technology can, in two hours, accurately detect pAmpC enzymes.
Knowledge and Attitudes about Antibiotics and Antibiotic Resistance of 2404 UK Healthcare Workers
Authors: Ashiru-Oredope Diane , Casale Ella , Harvey Eleanor , Umoh Eno , Vasandani Sagar , Reilly Jacqui , Hopkins Susan
Published: August 2022

Background: Using the COM-B model as a framework, an EU-wide survey aimed to ascertain multidisciplinary healthcare workers’ (HCWs’) knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards antibiotics, antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance. The UK findings are presented here. Methods: A 43-item questionnaire was developed through a two-round modified Delphi consensus process. The UK target quota was 1315 respondents. Results: In total, 2404 participants responded. The highest proportion were nursing and midwifery professionals (42%), pharmacists (23%) and medical doctors (18%). HCWs correctly answered that antibiotics are not effective against viruses (97%), they have associated side effects (97%), unnecessary use makes antibiotics ineffective (97%) and healthy people can carry antibiotic-resistant bacteria (90%). However, fewer than 80% correctly answered that using antibiotics increases a patient’s risk of antimicrobial resistant infection or that resistant bacteria can spread from person to person. Whilst the majority of HCWs (81%) agreed there is a connection between their antibiotic prescribing behaviour and the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, only 64% felt that they have a key role in controlling antibiotic resistance. The top three barriers to providing advice or resources were lack of resources (19%), insufficient time (11%) and the patient being uninterested in the information (7%). Approximately 35% of UK respondents who were prescribers prescribed an antibiotic at least once in the previous week to responding to the survey due to a fear of patient deterioration or complications. Conclusion: These findings highlight that a multifaceted approach to tackling the barriers to prudent antibiotic use in the UK is required and provides evidence for guiding targeted policy, intervention development and future research. Education and training should focus on patient communication, information on spreading resistant bacteria and increased risk for individuals.
Evaluation of Usnea barbata (L.) Weber ex F.H. Wigg Extract in Canola Oil Loaded in Bioadhesive Oral Films for Potential Applications in Oral Cavity Infections and Malignancy
Authors: Popovici Violeta , Matei Elena , Cozaru Georgeta Camelia , Bucur Laura , Gîrd Cerasela Elena , Schröder Verginica , Ozon Emma Adriana , Karampelas Oana , Musuc Adina Magdalena , Atkinson Irina , Rusu Adriana , Petrescu Simona , Mitran Raul-Augustin , Anastasescu Mihai , Caraiane Aureliana , Lupuliasa Dumitru , Aschie Mariana , Badea Victoria
Published: August 2022

Usnea lichens are known for their beneficial pharmacological effects with potential applications in oral medicine. This study aims to investigate the extract of Usnea barbata (L.) Weber ex F.H. Wigg from the Călimani Mountains in canola oil as an oral pharmaceutical formulation. In the present work, bioadhesive oral films (F-UBO) with U. barbata extract in canola oil (UBO) were formulated, characterized, and evaluated, evidencing their pharmacological potential. The UBO-loaded films were analyzed using standard methods regarding physicochemical and pharmacotechnical characteristics to verify their suitability for topical administration on the oral mucosa. F-UBO suitability confirmation allowed for the investigation of antimicrobial and anticancer potential. The antimicrobial properties against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27353, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, and Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019 were evaluated by a resazurin-based 96-well plate microdilution method. The brine shrimp lethality assay (BSL assay) was the animal model cytotoxicity prescreen, followed by flow cytometry analyses on normal blood cells and oral epithelial squamous cell carcinoma CLS-354 cell line, determining cellular apoptosis, caspase-3/7 activity, nuclear condensation and lysosomal activity, oxidative stress, cell cycle, and cell proliferation. The results indicate that a UBO-loaded bioadhesive film’s weight is 63 ± 1.79 mg. It contains 315 µg UBO, has a pH = 6.97 ± 0.01, a disintegration time of 124 ± 3.67 s, and a bioadhesion time of 86 ± 4.12 min, being suitable for topical administration on the oral mucosa. F-UBO showed moderate dose-dependent inhibitory effects on the growth of both bacterial and fungal strains. Moreover, in CLS-354 tumor cells, F-UBO increased oxidative stress, diminished DNA synthesis, and induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1. All these properties led to considering UBO-loaded bioadhesive oral films as a suitable phytotherapeutic formulation with potential application in oral infections and neoplasia.
Anti-Fibrotic Potential of Tomentosenol A, a Constituent of Cerumen from the Australian Native Stingless Bee, Tetragonula carbonaria
Authors: Hamilton Karina , Czajkowski Daniel , Kong Nicolas , Tran Trong , Gustafson Kirk , Pauly Gary , Boyle Glen , Simmons Jacinta , Steadman Robert , Moseley Ryan , Brooks Peter , Ogbourne Steven , Russell Fraser
Published: August 2022

Bioactivity-guided fractionation was used to isolate two compounds, tomentosenol A (1) and torellianone A (2), from a cerumen extract from Tetragonula carbonaria. The anti-fibrotic activity of these compounds was examined using human cultured neonatal foreskin fibroblasts (NFF) and immortalised keratinocytes (HaCaTs). Tomentosenol A (1), inhibited NFF and HaCaT cell proliferation and prevented NFF and HaCaT scratch wound repopulation at 12.5–25 µM concentrations. These inhibitory effects were associated with reduced cell viability, determined by tetrazolium dye (MTT) and sulforhodamine B (SRB) assays. Compound 1 further inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-stimulated, NFF-myofibroblast differentiation and soluble collagen production; and was an effective scavenger of the model oxidant, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH·), with an EC50 value of 44.7 ± 3.1 µM. These findings reveal significant anti-fibrotic potential for cerumen-derived tomentosenol A (1).
Oxidative and Inflammatory Imbalance in Placenta and Kidney of sFlt1-Induced Early-Onset Preeclampsia Rat Model
Authors: Santana-Garrido Álvaro , Reyes-Goya Claudia , Espinosa-Martín Pablo , Sobrevia Luis , Beltrán Luis M. , Vázquez Carmen M. , Mate Alfonso
Published: August 2022

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-specific disorder characterized by the new onset of hypertension plus proteinuria and/or end-organ dysfunction. Here, we investigate the role of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase system as a major component of reactive oxygen species generation, in a rodent model of early-onset preeclampsia induced by excess sFlt1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1). Placenta and kidney samples were obtained from normal pregnant and PE rats to measure the sFlt1/PlGF (placental growth factor) ratio in addition to oxidative stress-related parameters, including the activities and expressions of NADPH oxidase isoforms (NOX1, NOX2, and NOX4), components of nitric oxide (NO) metabolism, and antioxidant enzymes. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα, PPARγ) and cytokines IL1β, IL3, IL6, IL10, and IL18 were also measured to evaluate the inflammation status in our experimental setting. Excessive O2●− production was found in rats that were treated with sFlt1; interestingly, this alteration appears to be mediated mainly by NOX2 in the placenta and by NOX4 in the kidney. Altered NO metabolism and antioxidant defense systems, together with mitochondrial dysfunction, were observed in this model of PE. Preeclamptic animals also exhibited overexpression of proinflammatory biomarkers as well as increased collagen deposition. Our results highlight the role of NADPH oxidase in mediating oxidative stress and possibly inflammatory processes in the placenta and kidney of an sFlt1-based model of early-onset preeclampsia.
A Comparative Study of Hesperetin, Hesperidin and Hesperidin Glucoside: Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antibacterial Activities In Vitro
Authors: Choi Sung-Sook , Lee Sun-Hyung , Lee Kyung-Ae
Published: August 2022

The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities of hesperetin, hesperidin and hesperidin glucoside with different solubility were compared in vitro. Hesperetin was prepared by enzymatic hydrolysis from hesperidin, and hesperidin glucoside composed of hesperidin mono-glucoside was prepared from hesperidin through enzymatic transglycosylation. Solubility of the compounds was different: the partition coefficient (log P) was 2.85 ± 0.02 for hesperetin, 2.01 ± 0.02 for hesperidin, and −3.04 ± 0.03 for hesperidin glucoside. Hesperetin showed a higher effect than hesperidin and hesperidin glucoside on radical scavenging activity in antioxidant assays, while hesperidin and hesperidin glucoside showed similar activity. Cytotoxicity was low in the order of hesperidin glucoside, hesperidin, and hesperetin in murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells. Treatment of the cells with each compound reduced the levels of inflammatory mediators, nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Hesperetin was most effective at relatively low concentrations, however, hesperidin glucoside was also effective at higher concentration. Hesperetin showed higher antibacterial activity than hesperidin in both Gram-positive and -negative bacteria, and hesperidin glucoside showed similarly higher activity with hesperetin depending on the bacterial strain. In conclusion, hesperetin in the form of aglycone showed more potent biological activity than hesperidin and hesperidin glucoside. However, hesperidin glucoside, the highly soluble form, has been shown to increase the activity compared to poorly soluble hesperidin.
Analysis of Thioredoxins and Glutaredoxins in Soybean: Evidence of Translational Regulation under Water Restriction
Authors: Sainz María Martha , Filippi Carla Valeria , Eastman Guillermo , Sotelo-Silveira José , Borsani Omar , Sotelo-Silveira Mariana
Published: August 2022

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) establishes symbiosis with rhizobacteria, developing the symbiotic nodule, where the biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) occurs. The redox control is key for guaranteeing the establishment and correct function of the BNF process. Plants have many antioxidative systems involved in ROS homeostasis and signaling, among them a network of thio- and glutaredoxins. Our group is particularly interested in studying the differential response of nodulated soybean plants to water-deficit stress. To shed light on this phenomenon, we set up an RNA-seq experiment (for total and polysome-associated mRNAs) with soybean roots comprising combined treatments including the hydric and the nodulation condition. Moreover, we performed the initial identification and description of the complete repertoire of thioredoxins (Trx) and glutaredoxins (Grx) in soybean. We found that water deficit altered the expression of a greater number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) than the condition of plant nodulation. Among them, we identified 12 thioredoxin (Trx) and 12 glutaredoxin (Grx) DEGs, which represented a significant fraction of the detected GmTrx and GmGrx in our RNA-seq data. Moreover, we identified an enriched network in which a GmTrx and a GmGrx interacted with each other and associated through several types of interactions with nitrogen metabolism enzymes.
Investigation of the Scale Factor Impact on the Results of Acoustic Emission Monitoring of the Steel Specimens Tension Process
Authors: Marchenkov Artem , Chernov Dmitriy , Zhgut Daria , Pankina Anastasia , Rudenko Ekaterina , Poroykov Anton , Kulikova Ekaterina , Kovaleva Tatiana
Published: August 2022

The research is devoted to steel structure diagnostics by the acoustic emission (AE) method. The existing regulatory documents for AE diagnostics of metals and alloys do not take into account some critical factors, among which one is the scale factor should be highlighted. As a result, this can lead to an unreliable assessment of the danger degree of defects in structures when using standard AE diagnostic criteria. This paper presents a quantitative assessment of the scale factor impact on the AE data during the static tension test of steel specimens to failure. Experimental studies were carried out on flat specimens of various thicknesses with a side notch made of high-quality alloyed steel 30 KhGSA. It was established that AE data changed (rise in the AE signals amplitudes and AE activity) within the increase of specimen thickness. Growth in the recorded AE signals cumulative energy was registered with a greater specimen thickness. Partial correlation dependences of the mean count frequency and cumulative energy of AE signals on the specimen thickness were obtained. It was shown that such an effect occurred due to both a general increase in the deformed metal volume and greater strain intensity during the tension of thick specimens. The obtained dependences may contribute to the development of AE diagnostics of metallic materials which is invariant to the scale factor impact.
Assessing HapHop-Physio: An Exer-Learning Game to Support Therapies for Children with Specific Learning Disorders
Authors: Rico-Olarte Carolina , Narváez-Muñoz Nathalia , López Diego M. , Becker Linda , Tovar-Ruiz Luz Ángela
Published: August 2022

The HapHop-Physio exer-learning game is a cognitive rehabilitation solution for children with learning disorders to train memory and attention functions. Therefore, HapHop-Physio must be assessed as an appropriate tool developed to support the enhancement of essential cognitive skills. In this paper, we aim to establish the validity of HapHop-Physio in a healthcare setting with children receiving training with this tool. HapHop-Physio was developed through interaction between clinical experts, one graphic designer, and game developers. Following an assessment framework for serious games in healthcare, the game’s rationale, functionality, validity, and data safety are described. Particularly, the validity was assessed with experts through a case study conducted in three phases with 12 children diagnosed with Specific Learning Disorders. The baseline of the cognitive profile of the children was obtained and trained with HapHop-Physio. General trends and findings were obtained through an exploratory analysis of the gathered results from the phases. The validity aspects were achieved through continuous feedback from the experts, allowing to improve the game in five features: game structure, scoring system, avatars, login system, and clinicians’ dashboard. The application of the assessment framework in HapHop-Physio guarantees end users that the game is safe and effective enough to be used for supporting memory and attention training. One relevant finding from the case study was that cognitive performance improved in 11 out of 12 children at the end of the training. The positive outcomes of this assessment indicate the game’s appropriateness for a healthcare setting. However, the improvement in cognitive performance cannot be associated with HapHop-Physio in this case study. Consequently, it needs to be evaluated in a controlled experiment (including a control group) to ensure that it leads to cognitive rehabilitation in reality.
Special Issue on Ultrasonic Transducers and Related Apparatus and Applications
Authors: Svilainis Linas
Published: August 2022

This article belongs to the Special Issue “Ultrasonic Transducers and Related Apparatus and Applications” [...]
Determinants of Top Speed Sprinting: Minimum Requirements for Maximum Velocity
Authors: Clark Kenneth P.
Published: August 2022

Faster top sprinting speeds require shorter ground contact times, larger vertical forces, and greater thigh angular velocities and accelerations. Here, a framework using fundamental kinematic and kinetic relationships is presented that explores the effect of body dimensions on these mechanical determinants of sprinting performance. The analysis is applied to three hypothetical runners of different leg lengths to illustrate how these mechanical determinants of speed vary with body dimensions. Specific attention is focused on how the following variables scale with leg length and top speed: ground contact time, step rate, step length, ratio of step length to leg length, ratio of vertical force to body weight, total thigh range of motion, average thigh angular velocity, and maximum thigh angular acceleration. The analysis highlights the inherent biological tradeoffs that interplay to govern the optimal dimensions for sprinting speed and underscores that accounting for leg length may facilitate interpretation in future investigations examining the relationship between these mechanical variables and top speed. Furthermore, for athletes with given body dimensions and sprinting performance goals, this framework could help to establish the minimum requirements for maximum velocity.
Ear Centering for Accurate Synthesis of Near-Field Head-Related Transfer Functions
Authors: Urviola Ayrton , Sakamoto Shuichi , Salvador César D.
Published: August 2022

The head-related transfer function (HRTF) is a major tool in spatial sound technology. The HRTF for a point source is defined as the ratio between the sound pressure at the ear position and the free-field sound pressure at a reference position. The reference is typically placed at the center of the listener’s head. When using the spherical Fourier transform (SFT) and distance-varying filters (DVF) to synthesize HRTFs for point sources very close to the head, the spherical symmetry of the model around the head center does not allow for distinguishing between the ear position and the head center. Ear centering is a technique that overcomes this source of inaccuracy by translating the reference position. Hitherto, plane-wave (PW) translation operators have yield effective ear centering when synthesizing far-field HRTFs. We propose spherical-wave (SW) translation operators for ear centering required in the accurate synthesis of near-field HRTFs. We contrasted the performance of PW and SW ear centering. The synthesis errors decreased consistently when applying SW ear centering and the enhancement was observed up to the maximum frequency determined by the spherical grid.
Feedforward Loops: Evolutionary Conserved Network Motifs Redesigned for Synthetic Biology Applications
Authors: Weldemichael Tsigereda , Asemoloye Michael Dare , Marchisio Mario Andrea
Published: August 2022

Feedforward loops (FFLs) are relatively simple network motifs, made of three interacting genes, that have been found in a large number in E. coli and S. cerevisiae. More recently, they have also been discovered in multicellular eukaryotes. FFLs are evolutionary favored motifs because they enable cells to survive critical environmental conditions. Among the eight types of possible FFLs, the so-called coherent 1 and incoherent 1 FFL are the most abundant. The former carries out a sign-sensitive delay in gene expression; the latter is a pulse generator and a response time accelerator. So far, only few synthetic FFLs have been engineered, either in cell-free systems or in vivo. In this work, we review the main experimental works published on FFLs, with particular focus on novel designs for synthetic FFLs. They are, indeed, quite different from the natural ones that arose during the course of evolution.
Detecting DDoS Attacks in IoT-Based Networks Using Matrix Profile
Authors: Alzahrani Mohammed Ali , Alzahrani Ali M. , Siddiqui Muhammad Shoaib
Published: August 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a swiftly developing technology in all sectors, with the number of devices that connect to the Internet has increased remarkably in recent years. However, most of these devices use cheap hardware and lack a concrete security defence system. This may encourage hackers to recruit these devices and use them to launch Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, which is one of the main causes of concern among security engineers. This paper investigates the possibility of using a matrix profile to detect DDoS attacks in an IoT-based environment. According to our empirical experiments, the preliminary findings illustrate that the matrix profile algorithm can efficiently detect IoT-based DDoS attacks.
Identifying Coastal Wetlands Changes Using a High-Resolution Optical Images Feature Hierarchical Selection Method
Authors: Wu Ruijuan , Wang Jing
Published: August 2022

Coastal wetlands are dynamic and fragile ecosystems where complex changes have taken place. As they are affected by environmental changes and human activities, it is of great practical significance to monitor coastal wetlands changes regularly. High-resolution optical data can observe changes in coastal wetlands, however, the impact of different optical features on the identification of changes in coastal wetlands is not clear. Simultaneously, the combination of many features could cause the “dimension disaster” problem. In addition, only small amounts of training samples are accessible at pre- or post-changed time. In order to solve the above problems, the feature hierarchical selection method is proposed, taking into account the jumping degree of different image features. The influence of different optical features on wetland classification was analyzed. In addition, a training samples transfer learning strategy was designed for wetland classification, and the classification result at pre- and post-changed times were compared to identify the “from-to” coastal wetlands changes. The southeastern coastal wetlands located in Jiangsu Province were used as a study area, and ZY-3 images in 2013 and 2018 were used to verify the proposed methods. The results show that the feature hierarchical selection method can provide a quantitative reference for optimal subset feature selection. A training samples transfer learning strategy was used to classify post-changed optical data, the overall accuracy of transferred training samples was 91.16%, and it ensures the accuracy requirements for change identification. In the study area, the salt marsh increased mainly from the sea area, because salt marshes expand rapidly throughout coastal areas, and aquaculture ponds increased from the sea area and salt marshes, because of the considerable economic benefits of the aquacultural industry.
Method for the Analysis of Health Personnel Availability in a Pandemic Crisis Scenario through Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Pando-Ezcurra Tamara , Auccahuasi Wilver , Saenz Arenas Esther Rosa , Rosario Pacahuala Emilio Augusto , González Ponce de León Erica Rojana , Olaya Cotera Sandro , Flores Castañeda Rosalynn Ornella , Herrera Lucas
Published: August 2022

During pandemic times, difficulties and problems related to the health sector are evident as the number of patients coming to health centers is higher compared to normal situations. This increase in the number of patients is typical of the pandemic, due to the high level of contagion in the population. Health personnel have a higher risk of infection, due to their sharing the work of caring for positive patients, so the infection rate is much higher. Hence, it remains necessary to understand the behavior of infection of health personnel, in order to be prepared to deal with the care of patients. Accordingly, in this research, we present a method to estimate different scenarios of infection and assess the probability of occurrence, so we can estimate the infection rate of health personnel. We present a simulation of 21 possible scenarios with 100 workers and a minimum of 80% needed to guarantee patient care. The results show that it is more likely that a 50% contagion scenario will occur, with an acceptable probability of 20%.
Appraisal of Water Security in Asia: The Pentagonal Framework for Efficient Water Resource Management
Authors: Park Seo-Yeon , Kim Jong-Suk , Lee Seungho , Lee Joo-Heon
Published: August 2022

Swathes of global water challenges, such as water shortages, water pollution, water-related disasters, and degradation of water environments, have seriously threatened human development. The discussion of water security or insecurity has been instrumental in drawing the attention of political leaders thanks to its political nature and strategic and urgent messages for society to take action. This study introduces a modified concept and definition of water security and a water security assessment framework based on a review of previous works on water security; the water security framework intends to shed light on five core areas: (1) social equity; (2) economic efficiency; (3) environmental sustainability; (4) resilience to water-related disasters; and (5) government competency. A total of 28 countries in Asia and the Pacific have been chosen and appraised for their level of water security. The assessment result unveils that Japan, Malaysia, and South Korea show high levels of water security. In contrast, India, Pakistan, and the Philippines are regarded as the countries with water insecurity. The magnitude of the study lies in critically assessing good or challenging aspects of water security so that the countries can start to consider possible policy options for achieving sustainable water resource management.
A Novel Approach for Send Time Prediction on Email Marketing
Authors: Araújo Carolina , Soares Christophe , Pereira Ivo , Coelho Duarte , Rebelo Miguel Ângelo , Madureira Ana
Published: August 2022

In the digital world, the demand for better interactions between subscribers and companies is growing, creating the need for personalized and individualized experiences. With the exponential growth of email usage over the years, broad flows of campaigns are sent and received by subscribers, which reveals itself to be a problem for both companies and subscribers. In this work, subscribers are segmented by their behaviors and profiles, such as (i) open rates, (ii) click-through rates, (iii) frequency, and (iv) period of interactions with the companies. Different regressions are used: (i) Random Forest Regressor, (ii) Multiple Linear Regression, (iii) K-Neighbors Regressor, and (iv) Support Vector Regressor. All these regressions’ results were aggregated into a final prediction achieved by an ensemble approach, which uses averaging and stacking methods. The use of Long Short-Term Memory is also considered in the presented case. The stacking model obtained the best performance, with an R2 score of 0.91 and a Mean Absolute Error of 0.204. This allows us to estimate the week’s days with a half-day error difference. This work presents promising results for subscriber segmentation based on profile information for predicting the best period for email marketing. In the future, subscribers can be segmented using the Recency, Frequency and Monetary value, the Lifetime Value, or Stream Clustering approaches that allow more personalized and tailored experiences for subscribers. The latter tracks segments over time without costly recalculations and handles continuous streams of new observations without the necessity to recompile the entire model.
Flocculating Activity of a Bioflocculant from Bacillus megaterium BMBF in Treatment of Domestic and Coal Mine Wastewater
Authors: Selepe Tlou Nelson , Akanbi Remilekun , Maliehe Tsolanku Sidney , Moganedi Kgabo , Masoko Peter
Published: August 2022

Attention has been paid to bioflocculants production because of their effectiveness, innocuousness and environmental friendliness. This study aimed to characterise a bioflocculant from Bacillus megaterium BMBF and apply it in wastewater treatment. The proteins, carbohydrates and uronic acid were calculated using the Bradford, phenol–sulphuric acid and carbazole assays, respectively. An energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) and infrared spectrometry were employed for the identification of the elemental composition and effective units, respectively. Cytotoxicity was carried out against Vero (African green monkey kidney) and bovine dermis cells using a colorimetric cytotoxicity assay. The reduction in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biological oxygen demand (BOD) in domestic and coal mine wastewater was studied using the Jar test. The flocculant was composed of 12% protein, 27% carbohydrates and 61% uronic acid. Infrared spectrometry indicated hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino groups. EDX indicated C (61%) and O (17.5%) as the main elements. The bioflocculant revealed the mean inhibition concentration of 59 ug/mL against bovine dermis and 240 µg/mL on Vero cells. Maximum COD and BOD removal percentages of 97% and 99.3% were recorded on coal mine wastewater treatment and about 99.2% (COD) and 93% (BOD) on domestic wastewater. In conclusion, the bioflocculant from B. megaterium has potential industrial utility.
Effect of Acid Whey in Combination with Sodium Ascorbate on Selected Parameters Related to Proteolysis in Uncured Dry-Fermented Sausages
Authors: Karwowska Małgorzata , Kononiuk Anna , Stasiak Dariusz M.
Published: August 2022

The studies concern the effect of the addition of acid whey in combination with sodium ascorbate on selected parameters related to proteolysis in uncured dry-fermented sausages. Four sausage samples (with different additives: curing mixture (C); sea salt (S); sea salt and liquid acid whey (SAW); sea salt, liquid acid whey and sodium ascorbate (SAWA)) were taken at day 0, 7, 14 and 21 of ripening to assess basic physicochemical properties, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), peptides content, antioxidant properties and biogenic amines content. It was indicated that the addition the acid whey caused greater acidification of fermented sausages during processing and significantly lower level of biogenic amines and lipid oxidation. At 21 days, the pH and water activity of sausages ranged from 4.74 ± 0.01 to 5.04 ± 0.04 and from 0.868 ± 0.002 to 0.875 ± 0.003, respectively. The synergistic effect of whey and sodium ascorbate was particularly noticeable in the reduction of lipid oxidation products and antioxidant activity of peptides. The results showed a beneficial effect of the addition of acid whey in combination with sodium ascorbate on the quality features of fermented sausage.
A Novel Coordinated Control Strategy for Parallel Hybrid Electric Vehicles during Clutch Slipping Process
Authors: Xu Shanzhen , Tian Xiang , Wang Cheng , Qin Youning , Lin Xiaohu , Zhu Jingxuan , Sun Xiaodong , Huang Tiandong
Published: August 2022

For parallel hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), the clutch serves as a vital enabling actuator element during mode transitions. The expected drivability and smoothness of parallel HEVs are difficult to be achieve owing to the neglect of clutch-torque-induced disturbance and different response characteristics of power sources during clutch slipping. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel control strategy to coordinate the engine and motor during the clutch slipping process. A sliding mode control strategy based on a group-preserving scheme was applied to control the motor. The vehicle dynamic equation was constructed by the sliding surface with the Lagrange function. The equation solutions obtained by introducing the Runge–Kutta method were used as motor control inputs. Meanwhile, an adaptive PI controller was designed to regulate engine speed for the reduction in the speed difference of the clutch. The hardware-in-the-loop simulations were conducted to validate the outstanding performance of the proposal strategy. The verification results indicate that the proposed strategy not only reduces the vehicle jerk and frictional losses effectively, but also improves vehicle driving comfort and reliability.