bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wheat Lodging Direction Detection for Combine Harvesters Based on Improved K-Means and Bag of Visual Words
Authors: Zhang Qian , Chen Qingshan , Xu Lizhang , Xu Xiangqian , Liang Zhenwei
Published: August 2023

For the inconsistent lodging of wheat with dense growth and overlapped organs, it is difficult to detect lodging direction accurately and quickly using vehicle vision for harvesters. Therefore, in this paper, the k-means algorithm is improved by designing a validity evaluation function, selecting initial clustering centers by distance, constructing a multidimensional feature vector, and simplifying calculations using triangle inequality. An adaptive image grid division method based on perspective mapping and inverse perspective mapping with a corrected basic equation is proposed for constructing a dataset of wheat lodging directions. The improved k-means algorithm and direction dataset are used to construct a bag of visual words. Based on scale-invariant feature transform, pyramid word frequency, histogram intersection kernel, and support vector machine, the wheat lodging directions were detected in the grid. The proposed method was verified through experiments with images acquired on an intelligent combine harvester. Compared with single-level word frequencies with existing and improved k-means, the mean accuracy of wheat lodging direction detection by pyramid word frequencies with improved k-means increased by 6.71% and 1.11%, respectively. The average time of detection using the proposed method was 1.16 s. The proposed method can accurately and rapidly detect wheat lodging direction for combine harvesters and further realize closed-loop control of intelligent harvesting operations.
Nociception in Chicken Embryos, Part I: Analysis of Cardiovascular Responses to a Mechanical Noxious Stimulus
Authors: Weiss Larissa , Saller Anna M. , Werner Julia , Süß Stephanie C. , Reiser Judith , Kollmansperger Sandra , Anders Malte , Potschka Heidrun , Fenzl Thomas , Schusser Benjamin , Baumgartner Christine
Published: August 2023

Although it is assumed that chicken embryos acquire the capacity for nociception while developing in the egg, an exact time point has not yet been specified. The present research was an exploratory study aiming to determine when the capacity of nociception emerges during embryonic development in chickens. Changes in blood pressure and heart rate (HR) in response to a noxious mechanical stimulus at the base of the beak versus a light touch on the beak were examined in chicken embryos between embryonic days (EDs) 7 and 18. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was the most sensitive parameter for assessing cardiovascular responses. Significant changes in MAP in response to a noxious stimulus were detected in embryos at ED16 to ED18, whereas significant changes in HR were observed at ED17 and ED18. Infiltration anesthesia with the local anesthetic lidocaine significantly reduced the response of MAP on ED18, so the measured cardiovascular changes may be interpreted as nociceptive responses.
Antibiotic Resistance Mediated by Escherichia coli in Kuwait Marine Environment as Revealed through Genomic Analysis
Authors: Al-Sarawi Hanan A. , Habibi Nazima , Uddin Saif , Jha Awadhesh N. , Al-Sarawi Mohammed A. , Lyons Brett P.
Published: August 2023

Antibiotic-resistance gene elements (ARGEs) such as antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs), integrons, and plasmids are key to the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in marine environments. Kuwait’s marine area is vulnerable to sewage contaminants introduced by numerous storm outlets and indiscriminate waste disposal near recreational beaches. Therefore, it has become a significant public health issue and warrants immediate investigation. Coliforms, especially Gram-negative Escherichia coli, have been regarded as significant indicators of recent fecal pollution and carriers of ARGEs. In this study, we applied a genome-based approach to identify ARGs’ prevalence in E. coli isolated from mollusks and coastal water samples collected in a previous study. In addition, we investigated the plasmids and intl1 (class 1 integron) genes coupled with the ARGs, mediating their spread within the Kuwait marine area. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) identified genes resistant to the drug classes of beta-lactams (blaCMY-150, blaCMY-42, blaCTX-M-15, blaDHA-1, blaMIR-1, blaOKP-B-15, blaOXA-1, blaOXA-48, blaTEM-1B, blaTEM-35), trimethoprim (dfrA14, dfrA15, dfrA16, dfrA1, dfrA5, dfrA7), fluroquinolone (oqxA, oqxB, qnrB38, qnrB4, qnrS1), aminoglycoside (aadA2, ant(3’’)-Ia, aph(3’’)-Ib, aph(3’)-Ia, aph(6)-Id), fosfomycin (fosA7, fosA_6, fosA, fosB1), sulfonamide (sul1, sul2, sul3), tetracycline (tet-A, tet-B), and macrolide (mph-A). The MFS-type drug efflux gene mdf-A is also quite common in E. coli isolates (80%). The plasmid ColRNAI was also found to be prevalent in E. coli. The integron gene intI1 and gene cassettes (GC) were reported to be in 36% and 33%, respectively, of total E. coli isolates. A positive and significant (p < 0.001) correlation was observed between phenotypic AMR-intl1 (r = 0.311) and phenotypic AMR-GC (r = 0.188). These findings are useful for the surveillance of horizontal gene transfer of AMR in the marine environments of Kuwait.
Malondialdehyde Serum Levels in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Relate to Dyslipidemia and Low Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Authors: Ibrahim-Achi Zeina , Jorge-Pérez Pablo , Abreu-González Pedro , López-Mejías Raquel , Martín-González Candelaria , González-Gay Miguel , Ferraz-Amaro Iván
Published: August 2023

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease characterized by vasculopathy with the involvement of dysfunctional microcirculatory vessels. Features of the disease include progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs and systemic inflammation characterized by the presence of circulating autoantibodies and proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, macrovascular disease and atherosclerosis are more common in patients with SSc than in the general population. Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of several processes, including endothelial dysfunction, cancer, inflammation, and atherogenesis. Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a well-established marker of oxidative stress. In this work, we have analyzed the relationship between serum MDA levels and clinical, laboratory, and vascular characteristics in a well-characterized cohort of 53 patients with SSc. A multivariable analysis was performed to study the relationship between circulating MDA and disease characteristics in patients with SSc. Cardiovascular assessment was also performed, including ultrasonography of the carotid and aorta, and echocardiography. MDA showed a significant and positive relationship with the serum levels of lipid profile molecules such as total cholesterol (β coefficient = 0.006 (95% CI: 0.0004 to 0.01), nmol/mL, p = 0.037) and LDL cholesterol (β coefficient = 0.008 (95% CI: 0.001 to 0.01) nmol/mL, p = 0.017). On the contrary, most manifestations of the disease, including skin, lung, and joint involvement, as well as the presence of digital ulcers, were not related to MDA. However, high MDA levels were significantly and independently associated with lower ventricular ejection fraction after adjustment for covariates (β coefficient = −0.04 (95% CI: −0.06 to −0.02), nmol/mL, p = 0.001). In conclusion, serum MDA levels were related to higher levels of total and LDL cholesterol and a lower left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with SSc. MDA could serve as a potential biomarker of dyslipidemia and heart failure in SSc.
Exploring the Antioxidant Properties of Caffeoylquinic and Feruloylquinic Acids: A Computational Study on Hydroperoxyl Radical Scavenging and Xanthine Oxidase Inhibition
Authors: Boulebd Houssem , Carmena-Bargueño Miguel , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio
Published: August 2023

Caffeoylquinic (5-CQA) and feruloylquinic (5-FQA) acids, found in coffee and other plant sources, are known to exhibit diverse biological activities, including potential antioxidant effects. However, the underlying mechanisms of these phenolic compounds remain elusive. This paper investigates the capacity and mode of action of 5-CQA and 5-FQA as natural antioxidants acting as hydroperoxyl radical scavengers and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitors. The hydroperoxyl radical scavenging potential was investigated using thermodynamic and kinetic calculations based on the DFT method, taking into account the influence of physiological conditions. Blind docking and molecular dynamics simulations were used to investigate the inhibition capacity toward the XO enzyme. The results showed that 5-CQA and 5-FQA exhibit potent hydroperoxyl radical scavenging capacity in both polar and lipidic physiological media, with rate constants higher than those of common antioxidants, such as Trolox and BHT. 5-CQA carrying catechol moiety was found to be more potent than 5-FQA in both physiological environments. Furthermore, both compounds show good affinity with the active site of the XO enzyme and form stable complexes. The hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) mechanism was found to be exclusive in lipid media, while both HAT and SET (single electron transfer) mechanisms are possible in water. 5-CQA and 5-FQA may, therefore, be considered potent natural antioxidants with potential health benefits.
Decreased Klotho Expression Causes Accelerated Decline of Male Fecundity through Oxidative Injury in Murine Testis
Authors: Wang Ya-Yun , Lin Ying-Hung , Wu Vin-Cent , Lin Yu-Hua , Huang Chia-Yen , Ku Wei-Chi , Sun Chiao-Yin
Published: August 2023

Oxidative stress is the etiology for 30–80% of male patients affected by infertility, which is a major health problem worldwide. Klotho protein is an aging suppressor that functions as a humoral factor modulating various cellular processes including antioxidation and anti-inflammation, and its dysregulation leads to human pathologies. Male mice lacking Klotho are sterile, and decreased Klotho levels in the serum are observed in men suffering from infertility with lower sperm counts. However, the mechanism by which Klotho maintains healthy male fertility remains unclear. Klotho haplodeficiency (Kl+/−) accelerates fertility reduction by impairing sperm quality and spermatogenesis in Kl+/− mice. Testicular proteomic analysis revealed that loss of Klotho predominantly disturbed oxidation and the glutathione-related pathway. We further focused on the glutathione-S-transferase (GST) family which counteracts oxidative stress in most cell types and closely relates with fertility. Several GST proteins, including GSTP1, GSTO2, and GSTK1, were significantly downregulated, which subsequently resulted in increased levels of the lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxynonenal and apoptosis in murine testis with low or no expression of Klotho. Taken together, the loss of one Kl allele accelerates male fecundity loss because diminished antioxidant capability induces oxidative injury in mice. This is the first study that highlights a connection between Klotho and GST proteins.
Fuzzy Multivariate Regression Models for Seismic Assessment of Rocking Structures
Authors: Gkountakou Fani I. , Bantilas Kosmas E. , Kavvadias Ioannis E. , Elenas Anaxagoras , Papadopoulos Basil K.
Published: August 2023

The assessment of rocking response is a challenging task due to its high nonlinearity. The present study investigates two methodologies to evaluate finite rocking rotations and overturn of three typical rocking systems. In particular, fuzzy linear regression (FLR) with triangular fuzzy numbers and a hybrid model combining logistic regression and fuzzy logic were adopted. To this end, three typical rocking structures were considered, and nonlinear time history analyses were performed to obtain their maximum response. Eighteen seismic intensity measures (IMs) extracted from recorded seismic accelerograms were considered to predict the responses. In the absence of rocking overturn, the finite rocking rotations and similarity ratios were calculated by adopting the FLR method. Moreover, extensive analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of each IM on the model’s predictions. On the other hand, rocking overturn was evaluated by logistic regression to compute the probability of collapse, followed by the FLR method to estimate the similarity between the different rocking-based structural systems. The root mean square error (RMSE) parameter and the log loss function were determined for every model to assess the predictions that emerged from the two fuzzy methods. As indicated, both methods demonstrated satisfactory results, presenting minimal deviations from the observed values. Finally, in the case of finite rocking rotation predictive models, remarkably high similarity ratios were observed among the various structures, with a median value of 0.96.
Exploring Analytical Hierarchy Process for Multicriteria Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Slabs
Authors: Salomão Ítalo Linhares , Pinheiro Placido Rogério
Published: August 2023

The decision regarding which slab type should be used in a building is generally made by the structural engineer, considering structural efficiency and compatibility with the architectural design, as well as the costs related to the amount of material used in each option. Because of the technical responsibilities inherent to this specialty, the decision-making process neglects to encompass various other factors of consequence that influence the construction process. These considerations include productivity, the visual and aesthetic characteristics of the slab, waste generation, and thermal and acoustic comfort. This paper aims to develop a multicriteria method to assist stakeholders in selecting the most suitable structural system for slabs based on project needs and objectives. The study utilized the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and information from bibliographic research, expert opinion using the Delphi Method, and machine learning on a dataset of over 2000 previously constructed slabs to achieve this goal. The analysis showed that the conventional solid slab type was the top priority, followed by the two-way waffle slab, one-way waffle slab, solid flat slab, and waffle slab. Additionally, the proposed AHP method was effective in developing a decision-making model for companies and the construction sector.
A Study on the Soil Passivation of Nano-Manganese Dioxide-Modified Biochar under High-Arsenic Water Irrigation
Authors: Li Yuepeng , Xiao Shunyu , Zhang Xin , Qu Jihong , Ren Yu
Published: August 2023

[Objective] The irrigation area in northern Henan is an important grain producing area in China. Native high arsenic groundwater exists in the area and has long been used for agricultural irrigation. Increased soil arsenic (As) content under long-term irrigation threatens the quality and safety of crop products. Soil passivation is the use of adding passivators to the soil to fix pollutants to achieve the purpose of limiting their migration. Therefore, the preparation of an efficient and clean passivator and its arsenic fixation effect in soil are important research areas to reduce the risk of high arsenic groundwater. [Method] Firstly, nano-manganese dioxide (MnO2)-modified biochar was prepared via the pyrolysis of sawdust biochar, potassium permanganate and manganese sulfate monohydrate at a mass ratio of 1:0.18:0.29. Secondly, the adsorption characteristics were explored using adsorption kinetics and adsorption isothermal experiments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) feature mapping and other characterization methods were used to study its physical properties and adsorption mechanism. Finally, a potting experiment was designed to explore the changes in arsenic content in soil when the passivator dosages were 0%, 1% and 5%. [Results] (1) The nano-MnO2 modified biochar could reach the adsorption dynamic equilibrium after 180 min, and its maximum adsorption capacity was 58.12 μg/g. (2) When the dosing ratio was 1%, the fixed efficiency of soil effective As content in potted crops of unplanted crops and planted crops was 4.18–5.51% and 1.99–3.83%. When the dosing ratio was 5%, it was 7.48–8.75% and 5.58–9.58%. [Conclusions] The results show that when the addition ratio is 0–5%, the passivation effect of soil effective As is positively correlated with the passivator dosage.
Low-Temperature Sintering and Infiltration of High-W Contacts
Authors: Zhao Jincheng , Xie Ming , Li Hongmei
Published: August 2023

AgW materials exhibit excellent properties and are widely used as contact materials in low- and medium-voltage switches. In this study, a pre-sintering and infiltration method was employed to pre-sinter W powder with Cu, Ni, and (Cu+Ni) additions in the low temperature range of 950–1050 °C. The low-temperature sintering behaviours of W skeletons with different additives were investigated. Subsequently, AgW (70 wt%), AgW (75 wt%), AgW (80 wt%), and AgW (85 wt%) materials were prepared through infiltration at 1050 °C. The microstructure morphology and physical properties of high-W contact materials were investigated using a metallographic microscope and scanning electron microscope. The mechanism of low-temperature sintering–infiltration of high-W contact materials was elucidated. The results indicate that pure W and 1% Cu-added W skeletons experience minimal linear shrinkage within the temperature range of 950–1050 °C. The linear shrinkage curves of W skeletons with different additives coincided under the conditions of 950–1000 °C/90 min. At 1050 °C, after sintering for 150 min, the particle boundaries in the W skeleton were fully spheroidised, with a dihedral angle of 120°. At 1050 °C and after 150 min of infiltration, cross-sectional micrographs of the AgW material revealed the presence of irregular Ni layers, where Ni spatially enveloped/encapsulated Ag. With an increase in the W content, the electrical conductivity and relative density of AgW (70–85) materials decreased, whereas the hardness of the materials increased.
Experimental Study on the Permeability of Ecological Slopes under Rainfall Infiltration Conditions
Authors: Zhan Chuanhai , Yang Zhiyong , Wu Wenbing
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates the influence of different vegetation on the permeability of the shallow soil layers of slopes under rainfall infiltration. Firstly, four large slopes are filled in an outdoor natural environment, and the overburdens of the four slopes are Magnolia multiflora, Cynodon dactylon, Magnolia multiflora mixed with Cynodon dactylon, and no vegetation. Secondly, the four slopes are cultivated in an outdoor natural environment for one year. After the vegetation overburdens are matured, the field artificial rainfall test is carried out through a self-developed artificial rainfall device to monitor the water migration law inside the four slopes in real time. Finally, the unsaturated permeability coefficients of the shallow soil layers of slopes are calculated. The results show that the infiltration rate of rainwater in each overburden slope from fastest to slowest is Magnolia multiflora overburden slope, no vegetation slope, Cynodon dactylon overburden slope, and Magnolia multiflora mixed with Cynodon dactylon overburden slope. In the early stage of rainfall, Magnolia multiflora increases the permeability coefficient of the shallow soil layer of the slope, thus weakening the anti-seepage ability of the slope, but the influence of Magnolia multiflora is not obvious in the later stage. Cynodon dactylon and Magnolia multiflora mixed with Cynodon dactylon can significantly reduce the permeability coefficient of the shallow soil layers of the slopes, thereby increasing the anti-seepage ability of the slopes, and the mixed planting of Magnolia multiflora and Cynodon dactylon can minimize the permeability coefficient of the shallow soil of the slope, resulting in the best anti-seepage effect.
Numerical Study on a Diesel/Dissociated Methanol Gas Compression Ignition Engine with Exhaust Gas Recirculation
Authors: Li Bo , Chen Yihua , Zhong Fei , Xu Hao
Published: August 2023

Hydrogen is the most promising alternative fuel in the field of engines. Exhaust heat-assisted methanol dissociation is an attractive approach for generating hydrogen. In this work, simulations are conducted on a compression ignition engine fueled with different proportions of diesel-dissociated methanol gas (DMG) blends at intermediate engine speed, full load, and 0% EGR ratio. The results reveal that the indicated thermal efficiency and indicated mean effective pressure are greatly enhanced, combustion efficiency is increased, and regular emissions of CO, HC, and soot are reduced, while NOx emissions are reduced with increased DMG substitution. In addition, a simulation is conducted at an intermediate engine speed, full load, 15% DMG substitution ratio, and varying EGR ratios of 0–20%. The results indicate that the dual-fuel engine outperforms the original engine with respect to power, fuel economy, and regular emissions, once an optimal EGR rate is adopted.
Anaerobic Digestion of Olive Mill Wastewater and Process Derivatives—Biomethane Potential, Operation of a Continuous Fixed Bed Digester, and Germination Index
Authors: Pluschke Jonas , Faßlrinner Katharina , Hadrich Fatma , Loukil Slim , Chamkha Mohamed , Geißen Sven-Uwe , Sayadi Sami
Published: August 2023

Olive mill wastewater (OMW) management is an economic and environmental challenge for olive oil-producing countries. The recovery of components with high added value, such as antioxidants, is a highly researched approach that could help refinance performant wastewater treatment systems. Anaerobic (co-)digestion is a suitable process to valorize the energetic and nutritional content of OMW and OMW-derived waste streams from resource recovery processes. Issues of process stability, operation, and yields discourage industrial application. Deepening the understanding of biomethane potential, continuous anaerobic digester operational parameters, and co-substrates is key to large-scale implementation. The biomethane potential of different OMW-derived samples and organic solid market waste as co-substrate was 106–350 NL methane per kg volatile solids (VS). The highest yields were obtained with the co-substrate and depolyphenolized OMW mixed with retentate from an ultrafiltration pretreatment. Over 150 days, an anaerobic fixed-bed 300 L digester was operated with different OMW-derived substrates, including OMW with selectively reduced polyphenol concentrations. Different combinations of organic loading rate and hydraulic retention time were set. The biogas yields ranged from 0.97 to 0.99 L of biogas per g of volatile solids (VS) eliminated, with an average methane content in the produced biogas of 64%. Potential inhibition of the process due to high polyphenol concentrations or over-acidification through volatile fatty acids was avoided in the continuous process through process and substrate manipulation. High concentrations of potassium and low concentrations of nitrogen and phosphate end up in the digestate. Sulfate reduction results in high H2S concentrations in the biogas. The digestate was tested for phytotoxic properties via the germination index. Diluted digestate samples improved germination by up to 50%.
Data-Completion and Model Correction by Means of Evanescent Regularization
Authors: Ghnatios Chady , Jiang Di , Tourbier Yves , Cimetière Alain , Chinesta Francisco
Published: August 2023

System components are often regarded as part of a whole system, especially when it comes to data-driven modeling. Thus, subsystem modeling is disregarded in general when building a data-driven response, especially since multiple subsystem outputs are never measured in real applications. However, subsystem knowledge and accurate modeling are of utmost importance when aiming to repair, tune or troubleshoot a system. This work proposes a holistic modeling of subsystems in an embedded system setting. A hybrid modeling starting from the physics-based model is proposed in this work, correcting or enhancing the model, and predicting output variables, even when a measurement is never available for some of those variables. The process relies on the variables’ history, and employs an adjoint-free neural ordinary differential equation technique, along with evanescent regularization to enhance the convergence on the unmeasurable variables. The updated model converges to the exact measurements, for both the measurable and the unmeasurable variables. Multiple examples are presented using synthetic data, to allow an easy evaluation of the hidden or unmeasurable variables. The relative error offered by the updated model is around 0.001% for the measurable quantities and 0.1% for the unmeasurable ones.
Analysis of Vibration and Acoustic Radiation Characteristics of Reinforced Laminated Cylindrical Shell Structure
Authors: Li Bin , Wang Ning , Tian Ying , Kuang Wenjian , Wei Langlang , Zheng Zilai
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates the acoustic radiation characteristics of reinforced laminated cylindrical shell structures in the medium-low frequency range (1~1000 Hz) of aircrafts, submarines, and deepwater thrusters by combining simulation analysis and experimental testing. The research focuses on reinforced laminated plates, where experimental setup is established to measure structural modal parameters and structural acoustic power, and a finite element model is developed to verify the reliability of the finite element modeling method through comparison with experimental and simulation results. Simultaneously, a finite element model of the reinforced laminated cylindrical shell structure is established, and finite element simulation analysis is conducted to investigate the effects of different reinforcement methods, reinforcement quantities, reinforcement lengths, and reinforcement thicknesses on the acoustic radiation characteristics of the structure. The results indicate that in the frequency range of 1~1000 Hz, ribbed reinforcement exhibits better performance in reducing structural noise radiation compared to longitudinal reinforcement. With the increase in reinforcement quantity and thickness, the structural acoustic radiation decreases. Meanwhile, with the increase in reinforcement length, the overall sound power level of the structure shows a trend of first increasing and then decreasing.
Electroencephalographic Characterization by Covariance Analysis in Men with Parkinson’s Disease Reveals Sex- and Age-Related Differences
Authors: González-González Gabriela , Velasco Herrera Víctor Manuel , Ortega-Aguilar Alicia
Published: August 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the fastest growing neurological disease associated with ageing; its symptomatology varies between sexes. Several quantitative electroencephalography analyses have been used to study the early stages and progression of PD. In this study, we aim to characterize the brain activity by considering the five brainwaves in an eyes-closed resting state, using covariance wavelet analysis (CWA) of electroencephalographic records (EEGs) to analyze the influence of sex and age. To effectively eliminate artifacts from the EEG dataset and extract pertinent brain activity, we employ the inverse wavelet analysis. EEGs from men with PD were divided into two age groups (PD < 60 and PD > 60 years old) with their respective age-matched controls (CL). Brain activity patterns in frequency and power domains were analyzed with the CWA. Main frequency profiles, global wavelet curves, power anomalies, and power per brainwave were used to illustrate the CWA patterns. Power anomalies were used to generate anteroposterior power gradients. In PD < 60 men, frequency and power for the α brainwave decreased, while the δ brainwave increased. The θ brainwave increased and was dominant over the α brainwave in PD > 60 men. The anteroposterior power gradient in PD < 60 men had a positive slope, but it was negative in CL. In both PD and CL > 60 men, the anteroposterior gradient was negative. In PD > 60 men, the θ brainwave increased and became dominant. Men with PD had twice the θ brainwave increase. An inverse relationship between α and δ brainwaves was detected in a PD < 60 sex comparison. A conventional EEG spectral analysis using CWA indicated significant differences in brain activity patterns in the PD/CL groups affected by sex and age, yielding previously unknown information.
Utilizing Text Mining for Labeling Training Models from Futures Corpus in Generative AI
Authors: Chou Hsien-Ming , Cho Tsai-Lun
Published: August 2023

For highly time-constrained, very short-term investors, reading and extracting valuable information from financial news poses significant challenges. The wide range of topics covered in these news articles further compounds the difficulties for investors. The diverse content adds complexity and uncertainty to the text, making it arduous for very short-term investors to swiftly and accurately extract valuable insights. Variations between authors, media sources, and cultural backgrounds also introduce additional complexities. Hence, performing a bull–bear semantic analysis of financial news using text mining technologies can alleviate the volume, time, and energy pressures on very short-term investors, while enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of their investment decisions. This study proposes labeling bull–bear words using a futures corpus detection method that extracts valuable information from financial news, allowing investors to quickly understand market trends. Generative AI models are trained to provide real-time bull–bear advice, aiding investors in adapting to market changes and devising effective trading strategies. Experimental results show the effectiveness of various models, with random forest and SVMs achieving an impressive 80% accuracy rate. MLP and deep learning models also perform well. By leveraging these models, the study reduces the time spent reading financial articles, enabling faster decision making and increasing the likelihood of investment success. Future research can explore the application of this method in other domains and enhance model design for improved predictive capabilities and practicality.
Efficient Resource Allocation in Blockchain-Assisted Health Care Systems
Authors: Alfakeeh Ahmed S. , Javed Muhammad Awais
Published: August 2023

Smart health care will be a major application in future smart cities. Timely and precise delivery of patients’ data to their medical consultant, to allow the necessary actions, is one of the basic needs in health care systems. Blockchain technology, with the provisioning of recording and tracking of data blocks, guarantees secure and error-free data delivery. The vital sign data from patients’ sensors are placed in different data blocks. To become a part of the blockchain, the block must contain a valid key, based on a hash function. Mining nodes with high processing capabilities generate the required key using a 32-bit number, known as a nonce, which is changed for every new block. Finding a nonce that meets the hash function requirements is a time-intensive process in blockchain technology and is performed by several fog mining nodes. However, an efficient resource allocation that results in the fair placement of data in these fog mining nodes, while maintaining the priority and sensitivity of patients’ data, is a challenge. This work proposes two algorithms for the resource allocation of mining nodes. The first algorithm uses a load balancing technique to distribute the load of nonce computing tasks. The second algorithm utilizes the knapsack algorithm to allocate the caching space of the mining nodes. The simulation results highlighted that the proposed resource allocation techniques outperformed the existing techniques, in terms of quick mining of the most sensitive patient data blocks.
Effect of Fortification of Tahini with Natural Plant Origin Raw Materials on Its Bioactivity
Authors: Achilladelis Panagiotis , Petsas Andreas Stergios , Karantonis Haralabos Christos
Published: August 2023

Food fortification is a strategic approach to enhance the nutritional quality of food by incorporating bioactive compounds derived from food by-products. The objective of this study was to assess the impact on bioactivity of tahini enriched with a 4% (w/w) lyophilized microwave-ultrasound assisted extract of red grape pomace from the Limnio variety and a 6% (w/w) freeze-dried aquafaba obtained from Lemnian chickpeas of the Panagia variety. The evaluation was conducted through in vitro experiments. The samples under study were extracted by the Bligh and Dyer method and analyzed for their polyphenolic content, as well as for their content in total flavonoids. Assessment of the antioxidant capacity of the extracts was determined in vitro by the ABTS, DPPH, CUPRAC, FRAP and human blood plasma oxidation inhibition (hBPOxi) assays, while the antiplatelet activity of the extracts was determined by the Platelet Activating Factor inhibition assay (PAFi). The bioactivity of fortified tahini (LAC) was increased compared to plain tahini (Control sample). Total phenolics and total flavonoids were increased by 76% and 78%, respectively (10.7 ± 0.2 vs. 6.02 ± 0.3 and 8.5 ± 0.14 vs. 4.76 ± 0.1 μmol Trolox/g, respectively). Antioxidant activities based on ABTS, DPPH, CUPRAC, FRAP and hBPOxi were increased by 101%, 65%, 77%, 73% and 110%, respectively (52.8 ± 0.7 vs. 26.3 ± 0.4; 20.1 ± 1.6 vs. 12.2 ± 0.2; 81.9 ± 0.4 vs. 46.1 ± 2.1; 46.4 ± 4.0 vs. 26.8 ± 0.8; and 12.2 ± 0.9 vs. 5.8 ± 0.2 μmol Trolox/g, respectively), and antiplatelet activity based on PAFi was also increased by 41% (0.19 ± 0.01 vs. 0.32 ± 0.02 mg, respectively). Red grape pomace extract and aquafaba boosted tahini’s in vitro antioxidant and antiplatelet capabilities. The results indicate that the valorization of grape and chickpea processing residuals may reduce waste and improve the nutritional value of tahini. Due to its antioxidant and antiplatelet activities, fortified tahini may contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases where oxidation and thrombosis play critical roles. This study exemplifies sustainable resource use and waste reduction, as well as the importance of circular economy strategies in enhancing diets and human welfare.
Optimizing Friction Block Location on Brake Pads for High-Speed Railway Vehicles Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Hong Hee Rok , Ha Chang-Wan
Published: August 2023

Brake discs play a crucial role in braking railway vehicles, but the frictional heat generated during the braking process can lead to high temperatures on the disc. Changes in the friction block location on the brake pad result in variations in the temperature distribution across the brake disc. This study aims to optimize the positioning of friction blocks on the brake pad using artificial neural networks (ANN) and the Design of Experiments (DOE) approach based on the Taguchi methodology. The primary objective of this study is to mitigate temperature discrepancies in the frictional heating rate among distinct sectors along a radius from the center of the brake disc. To analyze the temperature variations caused by frictional heat, finite element analysis (FEA) is executed to account for the thermomechanical characteristics of the brake disc. The optimized brake pad, obtained through the ANN, is evaluated based on the temperature and thermal stress applied to the brake disc. The optimized model displays a larger hot band on the brake disc compared to the original model, leading to a more even distribution of thermal stress across the brake disc. In conclusion, the use of optimized pads offers significant performance benefits, resulting in a reduced maximum temperature and thermal stress, thus improving the overall braking performance of railway vehicles.
Indoor Clutter Object Removal Method for an As-Built Building Information Model Using a Two-Dimensional Projection Approach
Authors: Bae Sung-Jae , Kim Jung-Yeol
Published: August 2023

Point cloud data are used to create an as-built building information model (as-built BIM) that reflects the actual status of any building, whether being constructed or already completed. However, indoor clutter objects in the point cloud data, such as people, tools, and materials, should be effectively eliminated to create the as-built BIM. In this study, the authors proposed a novel method to automatically remove indoor clutter objects based on the Manhattan World assumption and object characteristics. Our method adopts a two-dimensional (2D) projection of a 3D point cloud approach and utilizes different properties of indoor clutter objects and structural elements in the point cloud. Voxel-grid downsampling, density-based spatial clustering (DBSCAN), the statistical outlier removal (SOR) filter, and the unsupervised radius-based nearest neighbor search algorithm were applied to our method. Based on the evaluation of our proposed method using six actual scan datasets, we found that our method achieved a higher mean accuracy (0.94), precision (0.97), recall (0.90), and F1 core (0.93) than the commercial point cloud processing software. Our method shows better results than commercial point cloud processing software in classifying and removing indoor clutter objects in complex indoor environments acquired from construction sites. As a result, assumptions about the different properties of indoor clutter objects and structural elements are being used to identify indoor clutter objects. Additionally, it is confirmed that the parameters used in the proposed method could be determined by the voxel size once it is decided during the downsampling process.
The Power of Glass: Craft Scotland Conference, 2022
Authors: Rothwell Sarah , Kelly Jessamy
Published: August 2023

In 2022, the UN marked the International Year of Glass, celebrating the essential role glass has, and will continue to have, in society. One element of this celebration was the importance of glass within art and its history, which the Craft Scotland 2022 Conference: The Power of Glass looked to explore. The aim of the conference was to allow a range of individuals, be they academics, researchers, or students of glass and art history within Scotland and the UK, to access contemporary thought within an under-represented field in the UK craft sector. In this paper, we look to highlight the links between the aims of the International Year of Glass and the proceedings of The Power of Glass Conference, demonstrating how glass artists, makers, and designers are part of a growing international body of creatives who are using the communicative possibilities of glass as a vehicle in which to raise pertinent questions and platform unheard and overlooked narratives. Moreover, they seek to overturn perceived biases of what glass is and its future potential by placing their craft within an arena of judgement beyond discussions of process and technique and by elevating socio-political glass art on par with other forms of artistic protest and commentary.
Process and Product Change Management as a Predictor and Innovative Solution for Company Performance: A Case Study on the Optimization Process in the Automotive Industry
Authors: Pop (Uifălean) Bianca Oana , Popescu Catalin , Gabor Manuela Rozalia
Published: August 2023

Change and innovation are increasingly exerting a significant influence on the daily activities of companies. To ensure optimal control, innovative solutions are employed that are encapsulated in the concept of change management. In the engineering change sector, the proposed approach involves developing solutions and making continuous adjustments to the manufacturing process to enhance productivity and to meet customer needs. Within the automotive industry, companies utilize innovations and process change management to continuously improve and strengthen their position in the market, such as KPI/KPRS and PCI. To achieve this, the present study gathers real digital data from the Romanian branches of two renowned automotive companies. The data regarding change requests include 215 registrations for the first company and 734 registrations for the second company. By employing complex statistical methods such as ANOVA, Student’s t-test, the Mann–Whitney test, and a regression model, the primary objective of this study is to model and to identify the best predictor of change request status. Additionally, this study aims to explore how this change process influences the economic performances of the companies and the performance indicators of change management in manufacturing processes. The findings indicate that, both in the organizations in general and within the automotive industry, when products experience high demand in the market, the number of change requests increases. This highlights the importance of internal optimization of the automation system. Moreover, the study results underscore the crucial role of an effective smart manufacturing and optimal change management system to uphold and to enhance the economic performance of automotive companies.
Some Relations on the rRs(P,Q,z) Matrix Function
Authors: Shehata Ayman , Khammash Ghazi S. , Cattani Carlo
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we derive some classical and fractional properties of the rRs matrix function by using the Hilfer fractional operator. The theory of special matrix functions is the theory of those matrices that correspond to special matrix functions such as the gamma, beta, and Gauss hypergeometric matrix functions. We will also show the relationship with other generalized special matrix functions in the context of the Konhauser and Laguerre matrix polynomials.
Role of NFE2L1 in the Regulation of Proteostasis: Implications for Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Chandran Aswathy , Oliver Haley Jane , Rochet Jean-Christophe
Published: August 2023

A hallmark of aging and neurodegenerative diseases is a disruption of proteome homeostasis (“proteostasis”) that is caused to a considerable extent by a decrease in the efficiency of protein degradation systems. The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is the major cellular pathway involved in the clearance of small, short-lived proteins, including amyloidogenic proteins that form aggregates in neurodegenerative diseases. Age-dependent decreases in proteasome subunit expression coupled with the inhibition of proteasome function by aggregated UPS substrates result in a feedforward loop that accelerates disease progression. Nuclear factor erythroid 2- like 1 (NFE2L1) is a transcription factor primarily responsible for the proteasome inhibitor-induced “bounce-back effect” regulating the expression of proteasome subunits. NFE2L1 is localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), where it is rapidly degraded under basal conditions by the ER-associated degradation (ERAD) pathway. Under conditions leading to proteasome impairment, NFE2L1 is cleaved and transported to the nucleus, where it binds to antioxidant response elements (AREs) in the promoter region of proteasome subunit genes, thereby stimulating their transcription. In this review, we summarize the role of UPS impairment in aging and neurodegenerative disease etiology and consider the potential benefit of enhancing NFE2L1 function as a strategy to upregulate proteasome function and alleviate pathology in neurodegenerative diseases.
Efforts to Minimise the Bacterial Genome as a Free-Living Growing System
Authors: Aida Honoka , Ying Bei-Wen
Published: August 2023

Exploring the minimal genetic requirements for cells to maintain free living is an exciting topic in biology. Multiple approaches are employed to address the question of the minimal genome. In addition to constructing the synthetic genome in the test tube, reducing the size of the wild-type genome is a practical approach for obtaining the essential genomic sequence for living cells. The well-studied Escherichia coli has been used as a model organism for genome reduction owing to its fast growth and easy manipulation. Extensive studies have reported how to reduce the bacterial genome and the collections of genomic disturbed strains acquired, which were sufficiently reviewed previously. However, the common issue of growth decrease caused by genetic disturbance remains largely unaddressed. This mini-review discusses the considerable efforts made to improve growth fitness, which was decreased due to genome reduction. The proposal and perspective are clarified for further accumulated genetic deletion to minimise the Escherichia coli genome in terms of genome reduction, experimental evolution, medium optimization, and machine learning.
Exposure to Roundup and Antibiotics Alters Gut Microbial Communities, Growth, and Behavior in Rana berlandieri Tadpoles
Authors: Villatoro-Castañeda Melissa , Forsburg Zachery R. , Ortiz Whitney , Fritts Sarah R. , Gabor Caitlin R. , Carlos-Shanley Camila
Published: August 2023

The gut microbiome is important for digestion, host fitness, and defense against pathogens, which provides a tool for host health assessment. Amphibians and their microbiomes are highly susceptible to pollutants including antibiotics. We explored the role of an unmanipulated gut microbiome on tadpole fitness and phenotype by comparing tadpoles of Rana berlandieri in a control group (1) with tadpoles exposed to: (2) Roundup® (glyphosate active ingredient), (3) antibiotic cocktail (enrofloxacin, sulfamethazine, trimethoprim, streptomycin, and penicillin), and (4) a combination of Roundup and antibiotics. Tadpoles in the antibiotic and combination treatments had the smallest dorsal body area and were the least active compared to control and Roundup-exposed tadpoles, which were less active than control tadpoles. The gut microbial community significantly changed across treatments at the alpha, beta, and core bacterial levels. However, we did not find significant differences between the antibiotic- and combination-exposed tadpoles, suggesting that antibiotic alone was enough to suppress growth, change behavior, and alter the gut microbiome composition. Here, we demonstrate that the gut microbial communities of tadpoles are sensitive to environmental pollutants, namely Roundup and antibiotics, which may have consequences for host phenotype and fitness via altered behavior and growth.
Cellular Stress: Modulator of Regulated Cell Death
Authors: Lamichhane Prem Prasad , Samir Parimal
Published: August 2023

Cellular stress response activates a complex program of an adaptive response called integrated stress response (ISR) that can allow a cell to survive in the presence of stressors. ISR reprograms gene expression to increase the transcription and translation of stress response genes while repressing the translation of most proteins to reduce the metabolic burden. In some cases, ISR activation can lead to the assembly of a cytoplasmic membraneless compartment called stress granules (SGs). ISR and SGs can inhibit apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis, suggesting that they guard against uncontrolled regulated cell death (RCD) to promote organismal homeostasis. However, ISR and SGs also allow cancer cells to survive in stressful environments, including hypoxia and during chemotherapy. Therefore, there is a great need to understand the molecular mechanism of the crosstalk between ISR and RCD. This is an active area of research and is expected to be relevant to a range of human diseases. In this review, we provided an overview of the interplay between different cellular stress responses and RCD pathways and their modulation in health and disease.