bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gamma Function derived from Natural Logarithm and Pi Function
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: May 2023

Several professors of mathematics from the renowned universities in Australia, Canada, Europe, India, USA, etc. argue with me that the gamma function was not derived from the factorial function. For them, this paper presents the derivation of gamma function from the natural logarithm and Euler’s factorial function, also known as Pi function.
The Liberating Transformation of Jesus from Greek-Roman Imperialism
Authors: Hetharie Yosa Marianta
Published: May 2023

This paper offers a postcolonial feminist reading of John 7:53-8:11, which focuses on the imperialistic background behind the text. The issue is that the violence experienced by the women in the text is not solely influenced by patriarchal culture. The aim of this paper is to analyze the background of the text more deeply, particularly the influence of the Roman Empire during that time. The method used is the postcolonial feminist hermeneutics developed by Musa W. Dube. The new perspective offered is that women are not deserving of violence, neither by culture nor by the binding imperial system.
Aksi Bersama Cegah Stunting Melalui Kuliah Kerja Nyata di Kabupaten Gowa
Authors: Rachmat Muhammad , Citrakesumasari Citrakesumasari , Gandi Gandi , Nasrah Nasrah , Kurnia Muhammad
Published: May 2023

The stunting locus village in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, has become the location of the Real Work Lecture on Community Learning and Empowerment of Hasanuddin University (KKN-PPMUH) program. The program aimed to empower society by enhancing knowledge, strengthening intentions and skills. The program focused on the stunting prevention behaviors of pregnant women, breastfeeding women, toddler moms, young women, elementary school students, and health cadres. The methods of KKN-PPMUH activities included health counseling, trainings, simulations, practices, and social mapping of the stunting prevention targets. This program was conducted in July to August 2022 in the villages of Pakatto, Je'nemadinging, Pacellekang, and Panaikang. The KKN-PPMUH consisted of stages such as program preparation, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and program reporting. Pre-test and post-test questionnaires are used to evaluate the activities. Based on the results of KKN-PPMUH activities, there was an increase in knowledge and reinforcement of intentions and skills on targets, particularly those about anemia in young women and pregnant women, exclusive breastfeeding in breastfeeding women, innovation of weaning food (MP-ASI) and stunting prevention food on toddler moms, the behavior of a clean and healthy life (PHBS) in elementary school students, and interpersonal communication (KAP) on posyandu cadres. Besides that, both the fish farming in buckets (Budikdamber) and the planting of moringa activities were done properly. The Stunting Thematic KKN-PPMUH activities in Gowa Regency have enhanced the knowledge and reinforced the intentions and skills of the targets. The stunting prevention programs in the stunting locus villages should be conducted continuously by doing university partnership work in their area
Uncovering the link between the SpnIII restriction modification system and LuxS in Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis isolates
Authors: Agnew Hannah N. , Atack John M. , Fernando Ann R.D. , Waters Sophie N. , van der Linden Mark , Smith Erin , Abell Andrew D. , Brazel Erin B. , Paton James C. , Trappetti Claudia
Published: May 2023

Streptococcus pneumoniae is capable of randomly switching their genomic DNA methylation pattern between six distinct bacterial subpopulations (A-F) via recombination of a type 1 restriction-modification locus, spnIII. These pneumococcal subpopulations exhibit phenotypic changes which favor carriage or invasive disease. In particular, the spnIIIB allele has been associated with increased nasopharyngeal carriage and the downregulation of the luxS gene. The LuxS/AI-2 QS system represent a universal language for bacteria and has been linked to virulence and biofilm formation in S. pneumoniae. In this work, we have explored the link between spnIII alleles, the luxS gene and virulence in two clinical pneumococcal isolates from the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of one pediatric meningitis patient. The blood and CSF strains showed different virulence profiles in mice. Analysis of the spnIII system of these strains recovered from the murine nasopharynx showed that the system switched to different alleles commensurate with the initial source of the isolate. Of note, the blood strain showed high expression of spnIIIB allele, previously linked with less LuxS protein production. Importantly, strains with deleted luxS displayed different phenotypic profiles compared to the wildtype, but similar to the strains recovered from the nasopharynx of infected mice. This study used clinically relevant S. pneumoniae strains to demonstrate that the regulatory network between luxS and the type 1 restriction-modification system play a key role in infections and may support different adaptation to specific host niches.
Fucose ameliorates the proinflammatory property of Fusobacterium nucleatum in colitis via altering its metabolism
Authors: Duan Caihan , Hou Lingzhi , Deng Xiaohua , Wu Junhao , Qian Wei , Han Chaoqun , Hou Xiaohua
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Previous studies reported that fucose plays a protective role in inhibiting pathogens. Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) was recently found to promote the progression of colitis. However, the effects of fucose on Fn are poorly understood. This study aimed to explore whether fucose could ameliorate the proinflammatory property of Fn in colitis and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

To validate our hypothesis, mice were administrated with Fn and fucose-treated Fn (Fnf) before dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) treatment to establish Fn related colitis model. The metabolism variation of Fn was detected by metabolomic analysis. To verify the effects of bacterial metabolites on intestinal epithelial cells (IECs), Caco-2 cells were treated with bacterial supernatant.

Results

More severe inflammation, intestinal barrier damage, autophagy block, and apoptosis in the colon were noted in DSS mice that were administrated with Fn or Fnf. However, the severity degree in Fnf+DSS group was less compared to Fn+DSS group. Metabolic pathways of Fn were altered after fucose treatment and proinflammatory metabolites were decreased. The supernatant of Fnf induced a lower level of inflammation than Fn in Caco-2 cells. One of the decreased metabolites, homocysteine thiolactone (HT), was proven to induce inflammatory effects in Caco-2 cells.

Discussion

In conclusion, fucose ameliorates the proinflammatory property of Fn via altering its metabolism and these findings provide evidence for the application of fucose as functional food or prebiotic in the treatment of Fn related colitis.
Biomarkers for immunotherapy in esophageal cancer
Authors: Wang Xuelian , Wang Ping , Huang Xiang , Han Yanan , Zhang Pei
Published: May 2023

The development of immunotherapy, especially immune-checkpoint inhibitors targeting PD-1/PD-L1, has improved the outcomes of patients with esophageal cancer. However, not all population derives benefit from the agents. Recently, kinds of biomarkers were introduced to predict the response to immunotherapy. However, the effects of these reported biomarkers are controversial and many challenges remain. In this review, we aim to summarize the current clinical evidence and provide a comprehensive understanding of the reported biomarkers. We also discuss the limits of the present biomarkers and propose our own opinions on which viewers’ discretion are advised.
A high-concentrate diet induces inflammatory injury via regulating Ca2+/CaMKKβ-mediated autophagy in mammary gland tissue of dairy cows
Authors: Meng Meijuan , Li Xuerui , Wang Zihan , Huo Ran , Ma Nana , Chang Guangjun , Shen Xiangzhen
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase β (CaMKKβ) is closely related to Ca2+ concentration. An increase in Ca2+ concentration in the cytoplasm activates CaMKKβ, and activated CaMKKβ affects the activities of AMPK and mTOR and induces autophagy. A high-concentrate diet leads to Ca2+ disorder in mammary gland tissue.

Objectives

Therefore, this study mainly investigated the induction of mammary gland tissue autophagy by a high-concentrate diet and the specific mechanism of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced autophagy in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs).

Material and Methods

Twelve mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows were fed with a 40% concentrate diet (LC) and a 60% concentrate diet (HC) for 3 weeks. At the end of the trial, rumen fluid, lacteal vein blood, and mammary gland tissue were collected. The results showed that the HC diet significantly decreased rumen fluid pH, with a pH lower than 5.6 for more than 3 h, indicating successfully induction of subacute rumen acidosis (SARA). The mechanism of LPS-induced autophagy in BMECs was studied in vitro. First, the cells were divided into a Ctrl group and LPS group to study the effects of LPS on the concentration of Ca2+ and autophagy in BMECs. Then, cells were pretreated with an AMPK inhibitor (compound C) or CaMKKβ inhibitor (STO-609) to investigate whether the CaMKKβ–AMPK signaling pathway is involved in LPS-induced BMEC autophagy.

Results

The HC diet increased the concentration of Ca2+ in mammary gland tissue and pro-inflammatory factors in plasma. The HC diet also significantly increased the expression of CaMKKβ, AMPK, and autophagy-related proteins, resulting in mammary gland tissue injury. In vitro cell experiments showed that LPS increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration and upregulated protein expression of CaMKKβ, AMPK, and autophagy-related proteins. Compound C pretreatment decreased the expression of proteins related to autophagy and inflammation. In addition, STO-609 pretreatment not only reversed LPS-induced BMECs autophagy but also inhibited the protein expression of AMPK, thereby alleviating the inflammatory response in BMECs. These results suggest that inhibition of the Ca2+/CaMKKβ–AMPK signaling pathway reduces LPS-induced autophagy, thereby alleviating inflammatory injury of BMECs.

Conclusion

Therefore, SARA may increase the expression of CaMKKβ by increasing Ca2+ levels and activate autophagy through the AMPK signaling pathway, thereby inducing inflammatory injury in mammary gland tissue of dairy cows.
Changes in the molecular profiles of large-vessel vasculitis treated with biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and Janus kinase inhibitors
Authors: Matsumoto Kotaro , Suzuki Katsuya , Takeshita Masaru , Takeuchi Tsutomu , Kaneko Yuko
Published: May 2023

Giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis are two types of primary large-vessel vasculitis (LVV). Although glucocorticoids (GC) are the standard treatment for LVV, the disease relapse rates are high. Recent clinical trials on biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have demonstrated their efficacy in reducing LVV relapse rates and GC dosages. However, the control of residual inflammation and degenerative alterations in the vessel wall remains an outstanding requirement in the clinical management of LVV. The analysis of immune cell phenotypes in patients with LVV may predict their response to treatment with bDMARDs and JAK inhibitors and guide their optimal use. In this mini-review, we focused on molecular markers, including the immune cell proportions and gene expression, in patients with LVV and in mouse models of LVV treated with bDMARDs and JAK inhibitors.
Instance segmentation ship detection based on improved Yolov7 using complex background SAR images
Authors: Yasir Muhammad , Zhan Lili , Liu Shanwei , Wan Jianhua , Hossain Md Sakaouth , Isiacik Colak Arife Tugsan , Liu Mengge , Islam Qamar Ul , Raza Mehdi Syed , Yang Qian
Published: May 2023

It is significant for port ship scheduling and traffic management to be able to obtain more precise location and shape information from ship instance segmentation in SAR pictures. Instance segmentation is more challenging than object identification and semantic segmentation in high-resolution RS images. Predicting class labels and pixel-wise instance masks is the goal of this technique, which is used to locate instances in images. Despite this, there are now just a few methods available for instance segmentation in high-resolution RS data, where a remote-sensing image’s complex background makes the task more difficult. This research proposes a unique method for YOLOv7 to improve HR-RS image segmentation one-stage detection. First, we redesigned the structure of the one-stage fast detection network to adapt to the task of ship target segmentation and effectively improve the efficiency of instance segmentation. Secondly, we improve the backbone network structure by adding two feature optimization modules, so that the network can learn more features and have stronger robustness. In addition, we further modify the network feature fusion structure, improve the module acceptance domain to increase the prediction ability of multi-scale targets, and effectively reduce the amount of model calculation. Finally, we carried out extensive validation experiments on the sample segmentation datasets HRSID and SSDD. The experimental comparisons and analyses on the HRSID and SSDD datasets show that our model enhances the predicted instance mask accuracy, enhancing the instance segmentation efficiency of HR-RS images, and encouraging further enhancements in the projected instance mask accuracy. The suggested model is a more precise and efficient segmentation in HR-RS imaging as compared to existing approaches.
Seasonal and spatial patterns in diazotroph community composition at Station ALOHA
Authors: Turk-Kubo Kendra A. , Henke Britt A. , Gradoville Mary R. , Magasin Jonathan D. , Church Matthew J. , Zehr Jonathan P.
Published: May 2023

Dinitrogen (N2) fixation is carried out by specialized microbes, called diazotrophs, and is a major source of nitrogen supporting primary production in oligotrophic oceans. One of the best-characterized diazotroph habitats is the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (NPSG), where warm, chronically N-limited surface waters promote year-round N2 fixation. At Station ALOHA (A Long-Term Oligotrophic Habitat Assessment) in the NPSG, N2 fixation is typically ascribed to conspicuous, filamentous cyanobacterial diazotrophs (Trichodesmium and Richelia), unicellular free-living Crocosphaera, and the UCYN-A/haptophyte symbiosis, based on using microscopy and quantitative PCR (qPCR). However, the diazotroph community in this ecosystem is diverse and includes non-cyanobacterial diazotrophs (NCDs). We investigated the diversity, depth distributions, and seasonality of diazotroph communities at Stn. ALOHA using high throughput sequencing (HTS) of nifH gene fragments from samples collected throughout the euphotic zone (0-175 m) at near-monthly intervals from June 2013 to July 2016. The UCYN-A symbioses and Trichodesmium sp. consistently had the highest relative abundances and seasonal patterns that corroborated qPCR-based analyses. Other prevalent community members included a new Crocosphaera-like species, and several NCDs affiliated with γ- and δ-proteobacteria. Notably, some of the NCDs appear to be stable components of the community at Stn. ALOHA, having also been reported in prior studies. Depth and temporal patterns in microdiversity within two major diazotroph groups (Trichodesmium and UCYN-A) suggested that sub-populations are adapted to time- and depth-dependent environmental variation. A network analysis of the upper euphotic (0-75 m) HTS data identified two modules that reflect a diazotroph community structure with seasonal turnover between UCYN-A/Gamma A, and Trichodesmium/Crocosphaera. It also reveals the seasonality of several important cyanobacteria and NCDs about which little is known, including a putative δ-proteobacterial phylotype originally discovered at Stn. ALOHA. Collectively, these results underscore the importance of coupling nifH gene HTS with other molecular techniques to obtain a comprehensive view of diazotroph community composition in the marine environment and reveal several understudied diazotroph groups that may contribute to N2 fixation in the NPSG.
Hcprismatin-14 of Hyriopsis cumingii, a novel matrix protein is crucial for framework recognition and crystal deposition during prismatic layer formation
Authors: Jin Can , Zhang Yihang , Cheng Kang , Jiang Rui , Jiang Shangning , Shi Yezhong , Ren Gang , Luo Wen
Published: May 2023

Mollusk shells are characterized by hierarchical aggregation of calcium carbonate and organic matrix, and matrix protein is considered as a key active ingredient to understand shell biomineralization. In this study, a total of 21 proteins, including a novel matrix protein Hcprismatin-14 were identified in the EDTA-soluble matrix of the prismatic layer of the mussel Hyriopsis cumingii by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The full length of Hcprismatin-14 cDNA was cloned from the mantle of H. cumingii. Hcprismatin-14 contains a high proportion of Gly, Tyr, Arg and Asp residues, their concentrated distribution forms three structurally characteristic regions: a Gly/Tyr-rich region, a WDD-repeat region and a C-terminal basic tail. Hcprismatin-14 expression was high in mantle edge tissue in a tissue-specific analysis, and during disordered crystal deposition in a saibo transplantation assay. Knocking down Hcprismatin-14 expression with double-stranded RNA induced subgrains deposition inhibition and lost contact with chitinous scaffold. In addition, the WDD-repeat region polypeptide was involved in morphological regulation of calcite and had dose-dependent inhibitory activity against aragonite deposition in vitro. Based on these results, Hcprismatin-14 appears to be a dual-function prismatic-layer matrix protein, responsible for both framework recognition and crystal deposition. These findings contribute to understanding the relationship between the modular structure of matrix protein and their regulation mechanism during shell biomineralization in mollusks.
Sources and pathways of halomethoxybenzenes in northern Baltic estuaries
Authors: Bidleman Terry , Agosta Kathleen , Andersson Agneta , Brugel Sonia , Ericson Lars , Hansson Katarina , Nygren Olle , Tysklind Mats
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Thousands of halogenated natural products (HNPs) are generated in the ocean and on land. A subset of these, halomethoxybenzenes (HMBs), are released from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Here we consider: 1. Brominated anisoles (BAs), transformation products of bromophenols. 2. Drosophilin A methyl ether (DAME: 1,2,4,5-tetrachloro-3,6-dimethoxybenzene), a secondary metabolite of terrestrial fungi. 3. Tetrachloroveratrole (TeCV: 1,2,3,4-tetrachloro-5,6-dimethoxybenzene), a lignin byproduct found in bleached kraft mill effluent. 4. Pentachloroanisole (PeCA), a metabolite of the wood preservative pentachlorophenol.

Methods

We examined several ecosystem compartments to determine sources and exchange processes for these HMBs: air, precipitation, rivers, forest fungi and litter, and water from northern Baltic estuaries and offshore. Samples were analyzed for HMBs by capillary gas chromatography – quadrupole mass spectrometry.

Results and discussion

All four types of HMBs were found in air, and BAs, DAME and TeCV were also present in precipitation. BAs and DAME were common in rivers and estuaries, whereas TeCV was low and PeCA was below detection. DAME was identified in several species of fungi and in forest litter; TeCV was occasionally present, but BAs and PeCA were below detection. Concentrations of BAs were higher in estuaries than in rivers or offshore waters, showing that estuaries are hot spots for production. BAs were negatively or not correlated with chlorophyll-a, suggesting contribution by heterotrophic bacteria as well as known production by phytoplankton and macroalgae. DAME was negatively or not correlated with BAs and did not appear to be produced in the estuaries; fungi and forest litter containing fungal mycelia are suggested as sources. HMBs volatilize from sea and land, disperse through the atmosphere, and return via precipitation and rivers. Production and biogeochemical cycles are influenced by climate change and we suggest BAs and DAME for following partitioning and exchange processes.
Endoscopic total parathyroidectomy via anterior chest approach with forearm autotransplantation for secondary hyperparathyroidism: a comparison of surgical results with open total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation
Authors: Hua Tebo , Lou Jinfeng , Zhu Ye , Luo Yong , Zhang Hai , Yang Jiahui
Published: May 2023

Objective

This paper aimed to evaluate the clinical value of performing an endoscopic total parathyroidectomy through anterior chest approach with autotransplantation (EACtPTx+AT) in treating secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) to summarize and share the clinical experience.

Methods

24 patients with SHPT were retrospectively analyzed:11 patients underwent open total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation (OtPTx+AT Group) and 13 patients underwent endoscopic parathyroidectomy through anterior chest approach with autotransplantation (EACtPTx+AT Group). Comparing the two groups regarding the following factors: (1) operating conditions, such as the blood loss during the operation, the length of time spent on the operating table, the number of parathyroid glands removed, postoperative drainage volume and hospital stay. (2) clinical efficacy, parathyroid hormone (PTH) and serum calcium (Ca) levels. (3) postoperative complications.

Results

First, there were no significant differences in the number of parathyroid gland resection, operation time, intraoperative blood loss and hospital stay between the two groups. While there were significant differences in postoperative drainage volume between the two groups. Second, the two groups preoperative PTH and preoperative serum calcium decreased significantly compared with those of the two groups after surgery and there was a statistically significant difference. Thirdly, there was no postoperative bleeding, hoarseness or choking in the two groups and no conversion to open surgery case in EACtPTx+AT group.

Conclusion

Endoscopic treatment of SHPT using the anterior chest approach with forearm autotransplantation significantly improves clinical symptoms and lowers levels of PTH and serum calcium after the operation. The results confirm the operation’s safety and effectiveness.
Combining energy-based focal ablation and immune checkpoint inhibitors: preclinical research and clinical trials
Authors: Jiang Minhan , Fiering Steven , Shao Qi
Published: May 2023

Energy-based focal therapy (FT) uses targeted, minimally invasive procedures to destroy tumors while preserving normal tissue and function. There is strong emerging interest in understanding how systemic immunity against the tumor can occur with cancer immunotherapy, most notably immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). The motivation for combining FT and ICI in cancer management relies on the synergy between the two different therapies: FT complements ICI by reducing tumor burden, increasing objective response rate, and reducing side effects of ICI; ICI supplements FT by reducing local recurrence, controlling distal metastases, and providing long-term protection. This combinatorial strategy has shown promising results in preclinical study (since 2004) and the clinical trials (since 2011). Understanding the synergy calls for understanding the physics and biology behind the two different therapies with distinctive mechanisms of action. In this review, we introduce different types of energy-based FT by covering the biophysics of tissue-energy interaction and present the immunomodulatory properties of FT. We discuss the basis of cancer immunotherapy with the emphasis on ICI. We examine the approaches researchers have been using and the results from both preclinical models and clinical trials from our exhaustive literature research. Finally, the challenges of the combinatory strategy and opportunities of future research is discussed extensively.
Deep Cross-Network Alignment with Anchor Node Pair Diverse Local Structure
Authors: Wang Yinghui , Wang Wenjun , Shao Minglai , Sun Yueheng
Published: May 2023

Network alignment (NA) offers a comprehensive way to build associations between different networks by identifying shared nodes. While the majority of current NA methods rely on the topological consistency assumption, which posits that shared nodes across different networks typically have similar local structures or neighbors, we argue that anchor nodes, which play a pivotal role in NA, face a more challenging scenario that is often overlooked. In this paper, we conduct extensive statistical analysis across networks to investigate the connection status of labeled anchor node pairs and categorize them into four situations. Based on our analysis, we propose an end-to-end network alignment framework that uses node representations as a distribution rather than a point vector to better handle the structural diversity of networks. To mitigate the influence of specific nodes, we introduce a mask mechanism during the representation learning process. In addition, we utilize meta-learning to generalize the learned information on labeled anchor node pairs to other node pairs. Finally, we perform comprehensive experiments on both real-world and synthetic datasets to confirm the efficacy of our proposed method. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms the state-of-the-art methods significantly.
Novel Adaptive Magnetic Springs for Reliable Industrial Variable Stiffness Actuation
Authors: Mrak Branimir , Willems Jeroen , Baake Jonathan , Ganseman Chris
Published: May 2023

Parallel elastic actuation is a highly promising concept for assisting preplanned trajectories such as repetitive tasks in industrial machines and robots. Nevertheless, due to the persisting challenges on spring lifetime, its full potential has yet to be leveraged in the industry. We propose a novel adaptive magnetic spring as a fatigue-free spring mechanism to enable variable stiffness actuators in long lifetime applications. The spring is designed to flexibly deal with variations in operating conditions, i.e., mass customization. We propose a co-design methodology which simultaneously optimizes the sizing of the magnetic spring (for the given machine and its operating conditions), together with the controls and ideal dynamic response of the system. This mechanism and the methodology are applied to a design problem of a weaving machine drivetrain, where the benefits of the adaptive magnetic spring are highlighted with respect to a fixed stiffness magnetic spring, and the current industrial benchmark without springs. Experimentally validated findings show a consistent and considerable improvement with respect to energy consumption and peak torque reduction of up to 47% and 64%, respectively, when comparing to the current industrial benchmark.
Analytical Redundancy for Variable Cycle Engine Based on Variable-Weights-Biases Neural Network
Authors: Ran Pengyu , Huang Xianghua , Zhang Zihao , Hao Xuanzhang
Published: May 2023

Due to the complex nature of a variable cycle engine (VCE), which has numerous control variables and working modes across a broad flight envelope, coupled with the whole engine’s degradation, the analytical redundancy method based on component-level models may not provide an accurate estimation of the sensors. Variable-weights-biases neural network (VWB Net) is proposed to construct VCE’s analytical redundancy. Unlike conventional networks whose weights and biases are fixed, VWB Net’s variable-weights and variable-biases are functions of input which greatly increase its nonlinear mapping capability by integrating input information. Variable-biases can also be used to eliminate the error between actual sensor output and estimated value quickly at the terminal node. Compared with the BP network and Dense net, VWB Net has fewer parameters, faster calculation speed, and higher accuracy. Digital simulation results of VCE parameter estimation demonstrate that VWB Net’s average relative errors are under 0.27% with calculation and parameter efficiency at least 166 times higher than that of Dense net. Hardware in the loop simulation further verifies VWB Net’s estimation accuracy and real-time calculation.
Aerodynamic Optimization Design of Supersonic Wing Based on Discrete Adjoint
Authors: Rao Hanyue , Shi Yayun , Bai Junqiang , Chen Yifu , Yang Tihao , Li Junfu
Published: May 2023

Reducing fuel consumption and improving the economy by effectively reducing cruising drag is the main objective of the aerodynamic design of supersonic civil aircraft. In this paper, the aerodynamic optimization design system based on the Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equation and discrete adjoint theory is applied to supersonic wing design. Based on this system, a single-point optimization design study of aerodynamic drag reduction in cruise conditions was carried out for two typical supersonic wing layouts, subsonic leading edge and supersonic leading edge, and the drag reduction reached 3.78% and 4.53%, respectively. The aerodynamic design characteristics of different types of supersonic wings were explored from the perspectives of wing load, twist angle distribution, pressure distribution, airfoil shape characteristics, and flow field characteristics. The optimization results show that the drag reduction of the subsonic leading edge configuration is dominated by the induced drag, while the optimizer mainly focuses on reducing the shock wave drag for the supersonic leading edge configuration. By comparing the sensitivity analysis of lift and drag coefficients to airfoil deformation with the optimization results, the optimized dominant directions of two types of supersonic wings are qualitatively analyzed. The derivatives obtained from discrete adjoint equations are useful to elaborate the design tendency and the reason for the trade-off generation of supersonic wings under specific layouts and engineering constraints, which provides a reference for the design of supersonic wings in the future.
Metabolic, Nutritional and Morphophysiological Behavior of Eucalypt Genotypes Differing in Dieback Resistance in Field When Submitted to PEG-Induced Water Deficit
Authors: Caetano-Madeira Débora Durso , Omena-Garcia Rebeca Patricia , Elerati Tamiris Lopes , da Silva Lopes Camila Batista , Corrêa Thais Roseli , de Souza Genaína Aparecida , Oliveira Leonardo Araujo , Cruz Cosme Damião , Bhering Leonardo Lopes , Nunes-Nesi Adriano , da Costa Weverton Gomes , Picoli Edgard Augusto de Toledo
Published: May 2023

Dieback is a physiological disorder that has caused losses on eucalyptus plantations. Thinking that water stress is one of the triggers for the physiological disorder and aiming at the early identification of tolerant genotypes, we evaluated plantlets of four commercial clones with divergent behavior in field conditions. The plantlets were grown in a greenhouse where the drought conditions were provided by the application of polyethylene glycol 6000 solutions at 100 and 300 g L−1. After water deficit treatments, the morphological, physiological, nutritional and metabolic analyses were performed. SuzT maintained the carbon fixation and the instantaneous water use efficiency, even under water deficit, while sustaining growth. This resulted in higher leaf area and total dry mass in SuzT. Despite higher photosynthetic rate, SuzS exhibited reduced dry biomass accumulation, implying less efficient carbon use. SuzT revealed a higher level of calcium that supports cell structure and homeostasis and indicates higher capacity to manage specific resources and survival under water deficit. SuzT suffered reduction in some free amino acids; however, there was no significant variation for total amino acid content. The principal component and cluster analyses indicated that SuzMT and SuzTP genotypes behave similarly to SuzT under water deficit, while SuzS clustered in isolation. Our results support that there are common trends in water deficit responses for contrasting eucalypt genotypes. The existence of other strategies coping with water deficit resistance is not discarded and should be further evaluated.
Multi-Stage Corn Yield Prediction Using High-Resolution UAV Multispectral Data and Machine Learning Models
Authors: Kumar Chandan , Mubvumba Partson , Huang Yanbo , Dhillon Jagman , Reddy Krishna
Published: May 2023

Timely and cost-effective crop yield prediction is vital in crop management decision-making. This study evaluates the efficacy of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based Vegetation Indices (VIs) coupled with Machine Learning (ML) models for corn (Zea mays) yield prediction at vegetative (V6) and reproductive (R5) growth stages using a limited number of training samples at the farm scale. Four agronomic treatments, namely Austrian Winter Peas (AWP) (Pisum sativum L.) cover crop, biochar, gypsum, and fallow with sixteen replications were applied during the non-growing corn season to assess their impact on the following corn yield. Thirty different variables (i.e., four spectral bands: green, red, red edge, and near-infrared and twenty-six VIs) were derived from UAV multispectral data collected at the V6 and R5 stages to assess their utility in yield prediction. Five different ML algorithms including Linear Regression (LR), k-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Deep Neural Network (DNN) were evaluated in yield prediction. One-year experimental results of different treatments indicated a negligible impact on overall corn yield. Red edge, canopy chlorophyll content index, red edge chlorophyll index, chlorophyll absorption ratio index, green normalized difference vegetation index, green spectral band, and chlorophyll vegetation index were among the most suitable variables in predicting corn yield. The SVR predicted yield for the fallow with a Coefficient of Determination (R2) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.84 and 0.69 Mg/ha at V6 and 0.83 and 1.05 Mg/ha at the R5 stage, respectively. The KNN achieved a higher prediction accuracy for AWP (R2 = 0.69 and RMSE = 1.05 Mg/ha at V6 and 0.64 and 1.13 Mg/ha at R5) and gypsum treatment (R2 = 0.61 and RMSE = 1.49 Mg/ha at V6 and 0.80 and 1.35 Mg/ha at R5). The DNN achieved a higher prediction accuracy for biochar treatment (R2 = 0.71 and RMSE = 1.08 Mg/ha at V6 and 0.74 and 1.27 Mg/ha at R5). For the combined (AWP, biochar, gypsum, and fallow) treatment, the SVR produced the most accurate yield prediction with an R2 and RMSE of 0.36 and 1.48 Mg/ha at V6 and 0.41 and 1.43 Mg/ha at the R5. Overall, the treatment-specific yield prediction was more accurate than the combined treatment. Yield was most accurately predicted for fallow than other treatments regardless of the ML model used. SVR and KNN outperformed other ML models in yield prediction. Yields were predicted with similar accuracy at both growth stages. Thus, this study demonstrated that VIs coupled with ML models can be used in multi-stage corn yield prediction at the farm scale, even with a limited number of training data.
Spring-Planted Cover Crop Impact on Weed Suppression, Productivity, and Feed Quality of Forage Crops in Northern Kazakhstan
Authors: Stybayev Gani , Zargar Meisam , Serekpayev Nurlan , Zharlygassov Zhenis , Baitelenova Aliya , Nogaev Adilbek , Mukhanov Nurbolat , Elsergani Mohamed Ibrahim Mohamed , Abdiee Aldaibe Ahmed Abdalbare
Published: May 2023

Integrating cover crops into crop rotation could provide options for herbicide-resistant weed control in farming systems. To evaluate the potential effectiveness of spring-planted cover crop oats (Avena sativa L.) on weed suppression, productivity, and feed quality of annual forage crops as sole crops and intercrops in order to determine the best agroecological technique, two-year experiments were laid out under arid conditions in the Akmolinsk region in northern Kazakhstan. Three annual forage crops, namely, (Piper) Stapf.-Sudan grass (Sorghum sudanense) (control), common millet (Panicum miliaceum L.), and Japanese millet (Echinochloa frumentacea L.), and three annual intercropping systems, i.e., 50% pea (Pisum sativum L.) + 50% barley (Hordeum vulgare L.); 40% pea (Pisum sativum L.) + 30% (Piper) Stapf.-Sudan grass (Sorghum Sudanense) + 30% barley (Hordeum vulgare L.); and 50% pea (Pisum sativum L.) + 50% (Piper) Stapf.-sudan grass (Sorghum Sudanense), as well as the six mentioned treatments with the sole crops and intercrops plus cover crop oats (Avena sativa L.) were used. Japanese millet is a promising newly introduced crop in northern Kazakhstan. It was revealed that the cover crop significantly reduced weed density in the forage sole crops and their intercrops. In all cases, integrating the cover crop with annual forage crops showed higher quality and productivity than non-covered treatments. A highly productive annual crop grown with and without cover intercrop was Sudan grass. The highest yield among the three intercropping systems was recorded with the intercrop constituting 40% pea + 30% Sudan grass + 30% barley. The crude protein content was higher in biomass from sole crops and intercrops constituting cover crops. The overall view was that the use of oats as a cover crop on sole annual forage crops and their intercrops including methods that could be integrated with chemical and non-chemical methods in the field could be a valuable way to reduce weed pressure and improve quality and productivity during the vegetation period.
Review of the Genesis of Plant Pathology and Its Relation to the Phytiatry as a Necessary Element in the Sustainable Development of Agronomy
Authors: Del Moral de la Vega José , Del Moral Martínez Jerónimo
Published: May 2023

The origin of plant pathology as a scientific discipline can be traced back to botany in the 18th century. In the following century, with the contributions of De Bary and Kühn, this discipline was able to identify the causes of diseases, learn about their development, and propose therapeutic measures, which is why these two researchers are considered to be the fathers of plant pathology. This account of its genesis is the one that appears in the histories currently published about it, but the discoveries of other authors who participated in its origin, whose work had not been taken into account, modify their knowledge. Among these authors are De Candolle and Blanco Fernández. The establishment of plant pathology, with a generalist, multidisciplinary, and integrative sense, as an academic discipline in the nineteenth century, disappeared together with some of the historical figures responsible for it, when other disciplines were born from it, and yet it is coincident with the current concept of phytiatry of the twenty-first century. The power to re-establish the characters and facts responsible for this historical moment allows us to review the current concept of phytiatry so that it fits with the greatest possible precision as a necessary tool for the sustainable development of agronomy as well as food security and is established as an indispensable part of a single global health concept.
The Impact of Foliar Fertilization on the Physiological Parameters, Yield, and Quality Indices of the Soybean Crop
Authors: Bărdaş Marius , Rusu Teodor , Russu Florin , Șimon Alina , Chețan Felicia , Ceclan Ovidiu Adrian , Rezi Raluca , Popa Alin , Cărbunar Mihai Marcel
Published: May 2023

Presented research was carried out in 2021 and 2022 on the Felix soybean variety at the Agricultural Research and Development Station Turda, located in the Transylvanian Plain, Romania. In this experiment, complex fertilizer NPK 20:20:0 was applied as a basic fertilizer in a dose of 200 kg ha−1 at the sowing stage, to which foliar fertilizer Agro Argentum Forte treatment was added in different doses and at different application stages. The main purpose of the study was to identify the suitable stages of foliar application in soybean cultivation for effective vegetative development, yield, and quality purposes. The impacts of the fertilization system and the climatic conditions on the physiological parameters, assimilation, yield, and quality were evaluated. Technology showed that the physiological parameters were positively influenced, following the foliar fertilization with Agro Argentum Forte, with average assimilation values recorded above 23.0 μmol CO2 m−2s−1 in the year 2021 and 22.4 μmol CO2 m−2s−1 in the year 2022. Soybean crop was influenced by climatic conditions and the application of foliar fertilizers in different phases of growth and development, obtaining higher yields, as well as higher protein and oil content. The soybean yield and quality indices (protein, oil, and mass of a thousand seeds) were higher in 2021 than in 2022 for the variants treated with foliar fertilizers compared to the control, resulting in an improvement in seed quality in 2021 with a yield of 3560 kg ha−1, while 2022 saw a lower yield of 1805 kg ha−1. The application of basic mineral fertilizers in combination with foliar fertilization had a significantly positive impact on the quality indicators of soybean seeds. The highest yields were achieved when the foliar treatment was applied in the early pod formation stage.
Assessing Within-Field Variation in Alfalfa Leaf Area Index Using UAV Visible Vegetation Indices
Authors: Hammond Keegan , Kerry Ruth , Jensen Ryan R. , Spackman Ross , Hulet April , Hopkins Bryan G. , Yost Matt A. , Hopkins Austin P. , Hansen Neil C.
Published: May 2023

This study examines the use of leaf area index (LAI) to inform variable-rate irrigation (VRI) for irrigated alfalfa (Medicago sativa). LAI is useful for predicting zone-specific evapotranspiration (ETc). One approach toward estimating LAI is to utilize the relationship between LAI and visible vegetation indices (VVIs) using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery. This research has three objectives: (1) to measure and describe the within-field variation in LAI and canopy height for an irrigated alfalfa field, (2) to evaluate the relationships between the alfalfa LAI and various VVIs with and without field average canopy height, and (3) to use UAV images and field average canopy height to describe the within-field variation in LAI and the potential application to VRI. The study was conducted in 2021–2022 in Rexburg, Idaho. Over the course of the study, the measured LAI varied from 0.23 m2 m−2 to 11.28 m2 m−2 and canopy height varied from 6 cm to 65 cm. There was strong spatial clustering in the measured LAI but the spatial patterns were dynamic between dates. Among eleven VVIs evaluated, the four that combined green and red wavelengths but excluded blue wavelengths showed the most promise. For all VVIs, adding average canopy height to multiple linear regression improved LAI prediction. The regression model using the modified green–red vegetation index (MGRVI) and canopy height (R2 = 0.93) was applied to describe the spatial variation in the LAI among VRI zones. There were significant (p < 0.05) but not practical differences (<15%) between pre-defined zones. UAV imagery coupled with field average canopy height can be a useful tool for predicting LAI in alfalfa.
Identification and Cloning of a Putative Male Fertility Gene Encoding an Oxidosqualene Cyclase in Qingke
Authors: Lin Dian , Xu Zhibin , Feng Bo , Zhou Qiang , Fan Xiaoli , Wang Tao
Published: May 2023

Anther development is crucial for controlling crop fertility. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of reproductive development of highland barley (called Qingke in Chinese), two main Qingke cultivars, Zangqing 2000 and Ximala 22, were utilized. Transcriptome analysis showed that lipid, sugar and phenylpropane metabolisms might be the major pathways associated with Qingke male fertility by analyzing the possible common DEGs before anther maturation in both varieties. Additionally, 26 genes related to crop genic male sterility were screened to identify homologous genes for Qingke male sterile lines. Among them, HORVU.MOREX.r3.7HG0634780 (HvtOSC12), an oxidosqualene cyclase, was highlighted as a candidate gene for affecting Qingke male fertility, as it is highly and especially expressed before Qingke anther maturation. Furthermore, HvtOSC12 (including promoter sequence) was cloned by homology-based cloning. The further bioinformatic analysis deduced that MYBs might be one of the transcription factors affecting expression of HvtOSC12 by responding to environmental changes. These results might lay a foundation for the potential applications for the creation of environment-sensitive genic male sterility in Qingke.
Modeling Co-Infection by Streptococcus suis and Haemophilus parasuis Reveals Influences on Biofilm Formation and Host Response
Authors: Gao Mengxia , Zuo Jing , Shen Yamin , Yuan Shuo , Gao Shuji , Wang Yuxin , Wang Yang , Yi Li
Published: May 2023

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) and Haemophilus parasuis (H. parasuis) are two primary pathogens currently affecting the porcine industry. They often cause encephalitis and arthritis. They also frequently co-infect in clinical settings. In the current study, we identified significant correlations between S. suis and H. parasuis. The results from CI versus RIR suggested that S. suis and H. parasuis were competitive in general. Compared to mono-species biofilm, the biomass, bio-volume, and thickness of mixed-species biofilms were significantly higher, which was confirmed using crystal violet staining, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Compared to mono-species biofilm, the viable bacteria in the mixed-species biofilms were significantly lower, which was confirmed using the enumeration of colony-forming units (CFU cm−2). The susceptibility of antibiotics in the co-culture decreased in the planktonic state. In contrast, biofilm state bacteria are significantly more difficult to eradicate with antibiotics than in a planktonic state. Whether in planktonic or biofilm state, the expression of virulence genes of S. suis and H. parasuis in mixed culture was very different from that in single culture. Subsequently, by establishing a mixed infection model in mice, we found that the colonization of the two pathogens in organs increased after mixed infection, and altered the host’s inflammatory response. In summary, our results indicate that S. suis and H. parasuis compete when co-cultured in vitro. Surprisingly, S. suis and H. parasuis synergistically increased colonization capacity after co-infection in vivo. This study elucidated the interaction between S. suis and H. parasuis during single infections and co-infections. Future studies on bacterial disease control and antibiotic treatment should consider the interaction of mixed species.
Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in Sheep and Goats in Austria: Seroprevalence, Risk Factors and Detection from Boot Swab Samples
Authors: Schrott Juliane , Sodoma Eva , Dünser Michael , Tichy Alexander , Khol Johannes Lorenz
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) in small ruminants in Austria by testing 22,019 serum samples with ELISA for the presence of specific antibodies. Furthermore, detailed investigations in five MAP-infected goat herds were carried out by ELISA, qPCR and bacterial culture. The found animal-level apparent MAP seroprevalence was 2.0% for goats and 0.7% for sheep (calculated true prevalence 3.5% and 1.2%, respectively). Herd-level apparent MAP seroprevalence was 11.1% for goat herds and 8.9% for sheep flocks. Significant risk factors for seropositivity in goat herds were: herd size, animal trading, farmed as a dairy herd, Animal Health Service membership and cohabitation with farmed game. For sheep flocks, seroprevalence was significantly higher in flocks with animal trading and where cattle or goats were kept in the flock, respectively. The overall apparent within-herd MAP seroprevalence in the five goat farms investigated was 21.8% (11.7%–28.0%, calculated true seroprevalence 38.6%) and an overall rate of MAP shedding of 12.3% was detected (5.0%–24.7%). It was possible to identify MAP by culture using boot swab samples in each herd. The results indicated a moderate MAP infection rate in small ruminants in Austria.