bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Switching Trackers for Effective Sensor Fusion in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Authors: Deo Ankur , Palade Vasile
Published: November 2022

Modern cars utilise Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in several ways. In ADAS, the use of multiple sensors to gauge the environment surrounding the ego-vehicle offers numerous advantages, as fusing information from more than one sensor helps to provide highly reliable and error-free data. The fused data is typically then fed to a tracker algorithm, which helps to reduce noise and compensate for situations when received sensor data is temporarily absent or spurious, or to counter the offhand false positives and negatives. The performances of these constituent algorithms vary vastly under different scenarios. In this paper, we focus on the variation in the performance of tracker algorithms in sensor fusion due to the alteration in external conditions in different scenarios, and on the methods for countering that variation. We introduce a sensor fusion architecture, where the tracking algorithm is spontaneously switched to achieve the utmost performance under all scenarios. By employing a Real-time Traffic Density Estimation (RTDE) technique, we may understand whether the ego-vehicle is currently in dense or sparse traffic conditions. A highly dense traffic (or congested traffic) condition would mean that external circumstances are non-linear; similarly, sparse traffic conditions would mean that the probability of linear external conditions would be higher. We also employ a Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) algorithm, which is able to monitor for construction zones, junctions, schools, and pedestrian crossings, thereby identifying areas which have a high probability of spontaneous, on-road occurrences. Based on the results received from the RTDE and TSR algorithms, we construct a logic which switches the tracker of the fusion architecture between an Extended Kalman Filter (for linear external scenarios) and an Unscented Kalman Filter (for non-linear scenarios). This ensures that the fusion model always uses the tracker that is best suited for its current needs, thereby yielding consistent accuracy across multiple external scenarios, compared to the fusion models that employ a fixed single tracker.
Exploring the Effects of Climate-Adaptive Building Shells: An Applicative Time-Saving Algorithm on a Case Study in Bologna, Italy
Authors: Gaspari Jacopo , Fabbri Kristian
Published: November 2022

Adaptive façades represent a viable and effective technological solution to reduce the building energy demand for cooling while achieving interesting aesthetic effects on the building envelope to screen solar radiation. During the last decade, many different design solutions, including those based on shape memory alloys, have been experimented to obtain appropriate responses without being dependent on electro-mechanically actuated systems. Several recent and ongoing studies have been published in the scientific literature regarding the different actuator typologies, as well as the different properties of the materials used, which usually determine the adaptive solution characteristics after a series of complex and time-consuming simulations using specialised dynamic modelling software. Due to the time and resources required, this kind of evaluation is usually delivered during the last and more advanced design stage as a form of assessment of already-taken architectural and technological choices. The study reported in the paper aims to offer a quick, time-saving simplified algorithm to calculate the response of an adaptive façade, according to the ISO 13790 standards, to be adopted during the early design stage to evaluate the possible effects of design decisions. The study includes three main steps: (a) the conceptualisation of the adaptive solution considering the context conditions; (b) the definition of the calculation algorithm; (c) the application of the method to a test room in a case study building located in Bologna for supporting the discussion of the related outcomes.
The Development of a Cross-Border Energy Trade Cooperation Model of Interconnected Virtual Power Plants Using Bilateral Contracts
Authors: Ullah Zahid , Arshad  , Ahmad Jawad
Published: November 2022

By coordinating the operation of regionally interconnected virtual power plants (VPPs), the growing penetration problem of renewable energy sources (RESs) into the power system can be addressed. This study presents an interactive trading cooperation model of regionally interconnected VPPs using bilateral contracts. The proposed model maximizes overall electricity market social welfare (SW) (i.e., maximization of consumer benefits while minimizing energy costs). The focus of the proposed approach is to design and develop a parallel energy exchange cooperation model of interconnected VPPs, ensuring the operational efficiency and reliability of interconnected power systems over the planning horizon. Given that adjacent VPPs may have differences in their energy generation and usage patterns, a scenario tree method is used to model the uncertainties associated with solar irradiation and load demand. A case study of two interconnected VPPs is used, the operational scenario is designed, and the corresponding computational model is developed. The results highlight that the proposed approach gives VPPs the option to utilize their internal network’s maximum capacity. As a result, there will be less reliance on the main grid for interconnected VPPs, and an improvement in key performance indicators, including the cost of the VPPs systems and renewable power variations.
Hammer Impact-Driven Power Generator Using Buzzer-Type Piezoelectric Energy Converter for Wind Power Generator Applications
Authors: Na Yonghyeon , Nahm Sahn , Jeong Young Hun
Published: November 2022

A novel hammer-impact-driven power generator that uses a buzzer-type piezoelectric energy converter (BPEC) for wind-power-generator applications was designed, and the dynamic motions and output characteristics were analyzed. As the active material, Sm0.025-Pb0.9625[(Mg1/3Nb2/3)0.71Ti0.29]O3 (Sm-PMN-PT)ceramic was used; this material has a high piezoelectric charge constant of 1100 pC/N and an electromechanical coupling factor of 58%. A rotational impeller triggered an impact between one end of the bar-type hammer, and, thereby, impact energy transferred to the BPECs. The manufactured power generator was tested from 50 RPM to 250 RPM, using the handmade evaluation system; it was able to operate with small impact force and greatly improved output performance as rotation speed increased. The maximum output of the generator was 10.4 W at a load resistance of 500 Ω and rotation speed of 250 RPM. For improvement of the output characteristics, the generators were arranged such that they could operate simultaneously. Moreover, the proposed model was applied to a Savonius–Darrieus turbine, and the output performance was evaluated at various wind conditions in a wind tunnel.
Form of the Occurrence of Aluminium in Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Residue—Even Hydrogen Is Lost
Authors: Michalik Marek , Kasina Monika , Kajdas Bartłomiej , Kowalski Piotr
Published: November 2022

In the bottom ash (BA) of municipal solid waste incineration, the content of iron and aluminum is relatively high. The efficiency of eddy current extraction of non-ferrous metals (including aluminium) routinely used in incineration plants is limited. The determination of the form of occurrence of aluminium or aluminium-rich components in BA is important in terms of its recovery or utilisation. BA from a newly built incineration plant in Poland was analysed using chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with chemical microanalysis. Samples of water-quenched BA were analysed. For comparison, a non-quenched sample (collected above a water tank) was analysed. The obtained results indicate that aluminium-rich components in BA are present in both the melt phase and quench phase. In the melt phase (glassy material), the content of aluminium is low (usually below 2 wt%). Aluminium-rich components present in glass, inherited after aluminium products are usually oxidised, and occur as platy or irregular forms. Aluminium components in the quench phase are significantly transformed with the common presence of Cl− and SO42− phases formed during reaction with the quench water. Secondary phases form simple or complex rims around metallic or slightly oxidised cores, of which the size is significantly reduced during transformations. The variety in the forms of aluminium occurrence in BA makes its recovery challenging and inefficient. The reduced content of metallic aluminium indicates that the potential for hydrogen generation of BA is low.
Hybrid DC–AC Microgrid Energy Management System Using an Artificial Gorilla Troops Optimizer Optimized Neural Network
Authors: Murugan Sathesh , Jaishankar Mohana , Premkumar Kamaraj
Published: November 2022

In this research, we introduce an artificial gorilla troop optimizer for use in artificial neural networks that manage energy consumption in DC–AC hybrid distribution networks. It is being proposed to implement an energy management system that takes into account distributed generation, load demand, and battery-charge level. Using the profile data, an artificial neural network was trained on the charging and discharging characteristics of an energy storage system under a variety of distribution-network power situations. As an added bonus, the percentage of mistakes was maintained far below 10%. An artificial neural network is used in the proposed energy management system, and it has been taught to operate in the best possible manner by using an optimizer inspired by gorillas called artificial gorilla troops. The artificial gorilla troops optimizer optimize the weights and bias of the neural network based on the power of the distributed generator, the power of the grid, and the reference direct axis current to obtain most suitable energy management system. In order to simulate and evaluate the proposed energy management system, small-scale hybrid DC/AC microgrids have been created and tested. When compared to other systems in the literature, the artificial gorilla troops optimizer enhanced neural network energy management system has been shown to deliver 99.55% efficiency, making it the clear winner.
Perspective of Thermal Analysis and Management for Permanent Magnet Machines, with Particular Reference to Hotspot Temperatures
Authors: Zhu Zi-Qiang , Liang Dawei
Published: November 2022

Permanent magnet (PM) machines have been extensively used for various applications. Nevertheless, thermal effect, particularly hotspot temperature, not only severely restricts power/torque density but also leads to deteriorations in electromagnetic performance, service life, and reliability. Starting with foundations of PM machines and heat transfer mechanisms, this paper reviews the development of thermal analysis methods over the last thirty years and the state-of-the-art research achievements, and the hotspot temperatures of winding and PM are particularly evaluated. In the overview, various machine losses and cooling techniques are first introduced, which are the essential reasons for temperature rise and the most straightforward way to remove the generated heat. Afterwards, the mainstream thermal analysis techniques, i.e., numerical techniques, lumped-parameter thermal model, and hybrid thermal models, as well as the online electrical parameter-based and thermal model-based temperature monitoring techniques, are reviewed and assessed in depth. In addition, this paper also reviews the analytical thermal modelling methods for winding and PM. Finally, future research trends are highlighted.
Impact on Heat Transfer Rate Due to an Extended Surface on the Passage of Microchannel Using Cylindrical Ribs with Varying Sector Angle
Authors: Dash Ayush , Alam Tabish , Siddiqui Md , Blecich Paolo , Kumar Mukesh , Gupta Naveen , Ali Masood , Yadav Anil
Published: November 2022

In this paper, the impact of an extended surface on the passage of a microchannel using cylindrical ribs with variable sector angles on heat transfer rate is presented using computer simulation. Extended surfaces in the form of cylindrical ribs of varying sector angles in the passage of microchannel in a staggered manner have been designed. The sidewalls of a new kind of microchannel incorporating five distinct ribs with sector angles ranging from 45° to 80° have been analyzed. Ansys Fluent workbench software has been exploited to simulate this novel design of a microchannel heat sink. A three-dimensional heat transfer and fluid flow model of the microchannel heat sink (MCHS) was developed, and the fluid and solid regions were discretized in very fine meshes. All CFD simulations were performed for Reynolds numbers between 100 and 900. Nusselt numbers are varied in the following ranges: 6.93 to 13.87, 6.93 to 14.38, 6.93 to 17.80, 7.15 to 27.86, and 7.20 to 37.38 at sector angles of 45°, 50°, 60°, 70°, and 80°, respectively. It is concluded that the Nusselt number is strongly influenced by the Reynolds number. At an angle of 80°, the maximum friction factor and pumping power requirements were observed. Additionally, a 45° angle has been proven to be the minimal friction factor and pumping power requirement. It is revealed that the THPP has all values larger higher than 1. At angles of 80° and 45°, the maximum and minimum values of THPP have been discovered, respectively. In addition, thermo-hydraulic performance parameters have been evaluated, which are greater than one for all sector angles.
Modeling and Investigation of the Effect of a Wind Turbine on the Atmospheric Boundary Layer
Authors: Kovalnogov Vladislav N. , Fedorov Ruslan V. , Chukalin Andrei V. , Tsvetova Ekaterina V. , Kornilova Mariya I.
Published: November 2022

Wind power engineering is one of the environmentally safe areas of energy and certainly makes a significant contribution to the fight against CO2 emissions. The study of the air masses movement in the zone of wind turbines and their influence on the boundary layer of the atmosphere is a fundamental basis for the efficient use of wind energy. The paper considers the theory of the movement of air masses in the rotation zone of a wind turbine, and presents an analytical review of applied methods for modeling the atmospheric boundary layer and its interaction with a wind turbine. The results of modeling the boundary layer in the wind turbine zone using the STAR CCM+ software product are presented. The wind speed and intensity of turbulence in the near and far wake of the wind turbine at nominal load parameters are investigated. There is a significant decrease in the average wind speed in the near wake of the wind generator by 3 m/s and an increase in turbulent intensity by 18.3%. When considering the long-distance track behind the wind turbine, there is a decrease in the average speed by 0.6 m/s, while the percentage taken from the average value of the turbulent intensity is 7.2% higher than in the section in front of the wind generator. The influence of a wind turbine on the change in the temperature stratification of the boundary layer is considered. The experiments revealed a temperature change (up to 0.5 K), which is insignificant, but at night the stratification reaches large values due to an increase in the temperature difference in the surface boundary layer. In the long term, the research will contribute to the sustainable and efficient development of regional wind energy.
Racial/Ethnic Disparities of Cancer, Metabolic Syndrome, and Lifestyle Behaviors in People under 50: A Cross-Sectional Study of Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Zhu Lin , Rahman Areebah , Yeh Ming-Chin , Ma Grace X.
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Recent epidemiological studies have suggested a trend of increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and certain types of cancer among adults under age 50. How MetS is associated with cancer in adults under the age of 50, however, remains unclear. Furthermore, it remains unknown whether associations between MetS and cancer vary by racial/ethnic group and whether modifiable lifestyle factors influence MetS–cancer relationships. Methods: We used data from the 2011–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to define a case-control sample to examine potential racial/ethnic disparities associated with MetS and cancer of any type. We used a chi-square test and binary logistic regression to examine the MetS and cancer association. Results: From a total sample of 10,220 cases, we identified 9960 no-cancer cases and 260 cancer cases. Binary logistic regression results showed that MetS was significantly associated with a cancer risk among non-Hispanic whites (odds ratio = 1.48, 95% confidence interval = 1.00–2.19); however, it was not associated with a risk among non-Hispanic Blacks, Hispanic/Latinos, or Asian Americans. We also found several significant predictors of cancer, including age, gender, tobacco use, and sleep duration, with their roles varying by racial/ethnic subgroup. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that racial/ethnic differences are involved in the association between MetS and cancer, and highlight the potential mediating effects of lifestyle and behavioral factors. Future research should leverage the existing longitudinal data or data from cohort or case-control studies to better examine the causal link between MetS and cancer among racial/ethnic minorities.
Pan HDACi Valproic Acid and Trichostatin A Show Apparently Contrasting Inflammatory Responses in Cultured J774A.1 Macrophages
Authors: Ubah Ubah Dominic Babah , Triyasakorn Korawin , Roan Brandon , Conlin Minsyusheen , Lai James C. K. , Awale Prabha S.
Published: November 2022

This study was initiated as an attempt to clarify some of the apparent conflicting data regarding the so-called anti-inflammatory versus proinflammatory properties of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis). In cell culture, typically, chronic pretreatment with the HDACi valproic acid (VPA) and trichostatin A (TSA) exhibits an anti-inflammatory effect. However, the effect of acute treatment with VPA and TSA on the levels of inflammatory cytokines in J774A.1 macrophage cell line is unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of acute treatment with VPA and TSA on levels of key inflammatory cytokines in maximally stimulated J774A.1 cells. J774A.1 macrophages were treated with either VPA or TSA for 1 h (acute treatment), followed by maximal stimulation with LPS + IFNγ for 24 h. ELISA was used to measure the levels of proinflammatory cytokines TNFα, NO and IL-1β from the culture medium. Acute treatment with VPA showed a dose-dependent increase in levels of all three cytokines. Similar to VPA, TSA also showed a dose-dependent increase in levels of IL-1β alone. This study sheds new light on the conflicting data in the literature that may partly be explained by acute or short-term exposure versus chronic or long-term exposure to HDACi.
Applying a Hybrid Kano/Quality Function Deployment Integration Approach to Wood Desk Designs for Open-Plan Offices
Authors: Lyu Jianhua , Chen Ran , Yang Lingyun , Wang Jialei , Chen Ming
Published: November 2022

In order to better serve the users of wood desks in open-plan offices, the Kano model is used to analyze the problems encountered by users in the office. Combined with quality function deployment (QFD), this study conducted an analysis of the weighted average of users’ needs and the importance of engineering measures of product technical characteristics. The proposed system uses an integrated Kano–QFD model to identify users’ specific needs and scene experience with a more complete service system. Through the hybrid approach of the Kano model and QFD development and design technology, the wood desks in open-plan offices are optimized to improve the rationality and scientific nature of office furniture and enhance its market competitiveness.
Influence of Leaf Litter and Humus Composition on the Development of Black Spruce Seedlings: A Greenhouse Experimentation
Authors: De Noronha Maísa , Ouimet Rock , Barrette Martin , Leduc Alain , Bergeron Yves
Published: November 2022

In boreal forests in Canada, broadleaf stands are characterized by generally well-drained soils and a humus-rich layer. In contrast, spruce-moss stands are often characterized by more poorly drained soils and acidic humus layer. However, presence of these two forest types in various degrees of mixture in stands can be beneficial to spruce seedlings productivity. It was hypothesized that leaf litter and humus from pure spruces-moss stands, pure broadleaf stands, and mixed stand may influence Black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP) seedling growth and development differently. A greenhouse experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of different leaf litter and different humus on spruces seedlings. Our results suggest better development for seedlings grown in humus from mixed stands and pure broadleaf stands compared to humus from pure B. spruce or standard forest nursery substrate. Furthermore, leaf litter from broadleaf trees species, such as species Speckle alder (Alnus rugosa (Du Roi) R.T. Clausen), T. aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx), Willows (Salix spp.) and Paper birch (Betula papyrifera Marsh.), has shown distinct results in the growth and development of B. spruce seedlings in greenhouse. Furthermore, promotion of mixed stand can increase B. spruce productivity by improving the physicochemical composition of the forest floor.
Temporal Variation and Hysteresis of Soil Respiration and Sap Flow of Pinus densiflora in a Cool Temperate Forest, Japan
Authors: Adachi Minaco , Hobara Yudai , Saitoh Taku M. , Hirota Mitsuru
Published: November 2022

Soil respiration (Rs) consists of autotrophic (Ra) and heterotrophic (Rh) respiration, and the metabolic responses of Ra and Rh are supposedly affected by environmental factors. Our hypothesis was that the contribution of Ra and Rh would be affected by seasons. To characterize seasonal patterns of Rs, sap flow (as an indicator of photosynthetic activity), and environmental factors, we continuously measured temporal variation in Rs using an automated opening and closing chamber system in a cool temperate forest. Rs had counterclockwise hysteresis (Rs: spring < autumn) with soil temperature at a depth of 5 cm. Daily maximum Rs had a significant positive relationship with daily maximum sap flow over three seasons, and daily maximum sap flow was lower in autumn than in spring (Ra: spring > autumn). The amount of leaf litterfall increased significantly from August to October; the high Rs in autumn would be due to an increase in Rh (Rh: spring < autumn). These results suggest that Ra contributes more in spring than in autumn, and the contribution of Rh is high from summer through autumn.
Factors Affecting Port Users’ Behavioral Intentions to Adopt Financial Technology (Fintech) in Ports in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case of Ports in Ghana
Authors: Antwi-Boampong Ahmed , Boison David , Doumbia Musah , Boakye Afia , Osei-Fosua Linda , Owiredu Sarbeng Kwame
Published: November 2022

The study evaluated factors influencing port users’ intentions to participate in Financial Technology (Fintech) in the ports of Ghana. The study used non-experimental quantitative correlational design and the Extended Unified Theory of the Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) as the theoretical foundation to assess whether performance expectancy (PE), behavioral intention (BI), effort expectancy (EE), social influence (SI), facilitating conditions (FC), hedonic motivation (HM), price value (PV), and habit (HT) were predictors of the intention of port users to participate in a Fintech program with age as a moderating factor. The sample comprised 407 individuals who work in the port industry and are between 18 and 64 years old; these were randomly selected through the SurveyMonkey platform. The study used principal component analysis (PCA), confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling to analyze and report the results. Findings show that PE, EE, and HT were predictors of the behavioral intention of port users to participate in a Fintech in the maritime and ports in Ghana. FC, SI, HM, and PV values could not predict BI for port users to enroll on a Fintech program. Neither did age have a moderating effect on the predictors variable influence on behavioral intention. This study offers a deeper insight into the adoption of Fintech in the port industry and sub-Saharan Africa. The findings can help researchers explain the variations in the UTAUT2 theoretical framework predictions relative to different sectors and disciplines. Researchers who intend to use the UTAUT2 theoretical framework to influence port users BI to enroll in the Fintech program will now consider PE, EE, and HT the most effective adoption factors. From a practical perspective, the study will help managers and stakeholders in ports in Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa focus on the critical constructs as the first steps to implementing a Fintech program. On the other side, port users will also understand their role relative to performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and the habit to cultivate toward Fintech.
Deep Learning Forecasts a Strained Turbulent Flow Velocity Field in Temporal Lagrangian Framework: Comparison of LSTM and GRU
Authors: Hassanian Reza , Helgadóttir Ásdís , Riedel Morris
Published: November 2022

The subject of this study presents an employed method in deep learning to create a model and predict the following period of turbulent flow velocity. The applied data in this study are extracted datasets from simulated turbulent flow in the laboratory with the Taylor microscale Reynolds numbers in the range of 90 < Rλ< 110. The flow has been seeded with tracer particles. The turbulent intensity of the flow is created and controlled by eight impellers placed in a turbulence facility. The flow deformation has been conducted via two circular flat plates moving toward each other in the center of the tank. The Lagrangian particle-tracking method has been applied to measure the flow features. The data have been processed to extract the flow properties. Since the dataset is sequential, it is used to train long short-term memory and gated recurrent unit model. The parallel computing machine DEEP-DAM module from Juelich supercomputer center has been applied to accelerate the model. The predicted output was assessed and validated by the rest of the data from the experiment for the following period. The results from this approach display accurate prediction outcomes that could be developed further for more extensive data documentation and used to assist in similar applications. The mean average error and R2 score range from 0.001–0.002 and 0.9839–0.9873, respectively, for both models with two distinct training data ratios. Using GPUs increases the LSTM performance speed more than applications with no GPUs.
Occurrence and Estimated Daily Intake of Cortisone and Cortisol in Aquatic Food from China TDS
Authors: Yang Yi , Shi Jiachen , Yin Jie , Yang Yunjia , Shao Bing , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2022

Glucocorticoids (GCs) widely exist in animal food including aquatic food. This study aimed to survey the occurrences of cortisone and cortisol in aquatic food and the estimated daily intake (EDI) of cortisone and cortisol due to different habits of aquatic food consumption. The mean levels of cortisone and cortisol in freshwater fish purchased from market were 14.59 μg/kg and 69.15 μg/kg, respectively, which were markedly higher than the levels in marine fish. A test using Zebrafish was performed to compare the concentration of GCs by different killing methods. The results suggested that physically traumatic killing methods are one of the reasons why the levels of GCs in freshwater fish were higher than those in marine fish. The concentrations of cortisone and cortisol in composite aquatic food samples from 12 provincial districts of the fourth China Total Diet Study (TDS) were 0.72~15.75 μg/kg and 4.90~66.13 μg/kg, respectively, which were positively correlated with the distance from the coastline. Further, the correlation coefficient between the levels of cortisone and cortisol in aquatic food and the percentages of freshwater fish consumption were 0.758 (p < 0.01) and 0.908 (p < 0.01), respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between the levels of cortisone and cortisol in aquatic food in the fourth TDS and the percentages of freshwater fish consumption. The calculated average EDIs of cortisone and cortisol from aquatic food in the fourth TDS were 0.16 μg/d and 0.72 μg/d, respectively.
Insoluble Fiber in Barley Leaf Attenuates Hyperuricemic Nephropathy by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Li Yongmei , Li Lu , Tian Jinhong , Zheng Fengxin , Liao Hui , Zhao Zean , Chen Yanyu , Pang Jianxin , Wu Ting
Published: November 2022

Hyperuricemia (HUA), characterized by abnormal serum uric acid (UA) levels, is recognized as an important risk factor for hyperuricemic nephropathy (HN), which is strongly linked to gut microbiota. This study investigated the protective effects and regulatory mechanisms of insoluble fiber from barley leaves (BL) against HN, induced by adenine (Ad) and potassium oxonate (PO). The results showed that BL dramatically reduced the levels of serum UA and creatinine (CR) and alleviated renal injury and fibrosis. Moreover, BL modulated oxidative stress and downregulated the expression of urate transporter 1 (URAT1) and glucose transporter 9 (GLUT9) in the kidneys of mice with HN. In addition, the 16S rRNA sequence data showed that BL also increased the relative abundance of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria, including Bacteroides, Alloprevotella, and Eisenbergiella. Besides, BL treatment also increased SCFAs levels. Of interest, the application of SCFAs in hyperuricemic mice effectively reduced their serum UA. Furthermore, SCFAs dose-dependently inhibited URAT1 and GLUT9 in vitro and potently interacted with URAT1 and GLUT9 in the docking analysis. When taken together, our results indicate that BL and its metabolite SCFAs may be potential candidates for relieving HUA or HN.
Effect of Narrowband UV-B Irradiation on the Growth Performance of House Crickets
Authors: Psarianos Marios , Fricke Anna , Ojha Shikha , Baldermann Susanne , Schreiner Monika , Schlüter Oliver K.
Published: November 2022

Indoor co-cultivation systems can answer to the need for sustainable and resilient food production systems. Rearing organisms under light-emitting diodes (LEDs) irradiation provides the possibility to control and shape the emitted light spectra. UV-B-irradiation (280–315 nm) can positively affect the nutritional composition of different plants and other organisms, whereas information on edible insects is scarce. To evaluate the potential effect of the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and LED-emitting LEDs on the rearing and nutritional quality of edible insects, house crickets (Acheta domesticus) were reared from the age of 21 days under controlled LED spectra, with an additional UV-B (0.08 W/m2) dose of 1.15 KJm2 d−1 (illuminated over a period for 4 h per day) for 34 days. UV-B exposure showed no harm to the weight of the crickets and significantly increased their survival by ca. 10% under narrowband UV-B treatment. The nutritional composition including proteins, fat and chitin contents of the insects was not affected by the UV-B light and reached values of 60.03 ± 10.41, 22.38 ± 2.12 and 9.33 ± 1.21%, respectively, under the LED irradiation. Therefore, house crickets can grow under LED irradiation with a positive effect of narrowband UV-B application on their survival.
Twenty Significant Problems in AI Research, with Potential Solutions via the SP Theory of Intelligence and Its Realisation in the SP Computer Model
Authors: Wolff J. Gerard
Published: November 2022

This paper highlights 20 significant problems in AI research, with potential solutions via the SP Theory of Intelligence (SPTI) and its realisation in the SP Computer Model. With other evidence referenced in the paper, this is strong evidence in support of the SPTI as a promising foundation for the development of human-level broad AI, aka artificial general intelligence. The 20 problems include: the tendency of deep neural networks to make major errors in recognition; the need for a coherent account of generalisation, over- and under-generalisation, and minimising the corrupting effect of ‘dirty data’; how to achieve one-trial learning; how to achieve transfer learning; the need for transparency in the representation and processing of knowledge; and how to eliminate the problem of catastrophic forgetting. In addition to its promise as a foundation for the development of AGI, the SPTI has potential as a foundation for the study of human learning, perception, and cognition. And it has potential as a foundation for mathematics, logic, and computing.
Sensitivity of Fractional-Order Recurrent Neural Network with Encoded Physics-Informed Battery Knowledge
Authors: Wang Yanan , Han Xuebing , Lu Languang , Chen Yangquan , Ouyang Minggao
Published: November 2022

In the field of state estimation for the lithium-ion battery (LIB), model-based methods (white box) have been developed to explain battery mechanism and data-driven methods (black box) have been designed to learn battery statistics. Both white box methods and black box methods have drawn much attention recently. As the combination of white box and black box, physics-informed machine learning has been investigated by embedding physic laws. For LIB state estimation, this work proposes a fractional-order recurrent neural network (FORNN) encoded with physics-informed battery knowledge. Three aspects of FORNN can be improved by learning certain physics-informed knowledge. Firstly, the fractional-order state feedback is achieved by introducing a fractional-order derivative in a forward propagation process. Secondly, the fractional-order constraint is constructed by a voltage partial derivative equation (PDE) deduced from the battery fractional-order model (FOM). Thirdly, both the fractional-order gradient descent (FOGD) and fractional-order gradient descent with momentum (FOGDm) methods are proposed by introducing a fractional-order gradient in the backpropagation process. For the proposed FORNN, the sensitivity of the added fractional-order parameters are analyzed by experiments under the federal urban driving schedule (FUDS) operation conditions. The experiment results demonstrate that a certain range of every fractional-order parameter can achieve better convergence speed and higher estimation accuracy. On the basis of the sensitivity analysis, the fractional-order parameter tuning rules have been concluded and listed in the discussion part to provide useful references to the parameter tuning of the proposed algorithm.
Proteomic Analysis of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) Roots in Response to Rhizobium Nodulation and Salt Stress
Authors: Wang Yafang , Zhang Pan , Li Le , Li Danning , Liang Zheng , Cao Yuman , Hu Tianming , Yang Peizhi
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Alfalfa is an important legume forage throughout the world. Although alfalfa is considered moderately tolerant to salinity, its production and nitrogen-fixing activity are greatly limited by salt stress. (2) Methods: We examined the physiological changes and proteomic profiles of alfalfa with active nodules (NA) and without nodules (NN) under NaCl treatment. (3) Results: Our data suggested that NA roots showed upregulation of the pathways of abiotic and biotic stress responses (e.g., heat shock proteins and pathogenesis-related proteins), antioxidant enzyme synthesis, protein synthesis and degradation, cell wall degradation and modification, acid phosphatases, and porin transport when compared with NN plants under salt stress conditions. NA roots also upregulated the processes or proteins of lipid metabolism, heat shock proteins, protein degradation and folding, and cell cytoskeleton, downregulated the DNA and protein synthesis process, and vacuolar H+-ATPase proteins under salt stress. Besides, NA roots displayed a net H+ influx and low level of K+ efflux under salt stress, which may enhance the salt tolerance of NA plants. (4) Conclusions: The rhizobium symbiosis conferred the host plant salt tolerance by regulating a series of physiological processes to enhance stress response, improve antioxidant ability and energy use efficiency, and maintain ion homeostasis.
Integrative Transcriptomic Analysis Identify Potential m6A Pathway-Related Drugs That Inhibit Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Yi Jingkun , Liu Rucong , Liu Yu , Guo Ting , Li Yang , Zhou Yuan
Published: November 2022

Recent studies have found that m6A modification of mRNA may play important roles in the progression of various types of cancers. However, current knowledge about drugs that can interfere with m6A methylation and inhibit cancer cell proliferation is still far from comprehensive. To this end, we performed integrative analysis on transcriptome data with perturbation of m6A writers or erasers and identified consensus m6A-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Comparative analysis of these m6A-related DEGs with Connectivity Map signatures highlight potential m6A-targeted drugs. Among them, we experimentally verified the inhibitory effects of AZ628 on the proliferation of human breast cancer cell lines and R428 on the proliferation of human melanoma cell lines. Both drugs can significantly reduce the cellular level of m6A modification. These results suggest an m6A-related new target pathway by AZ628 and R428 and provide new candidate m6A-related drugs that inhibit cancer cell proliferation.
Seropositivity-Dependent Association between LINE-1 Methylation and Response to Methotrexate Therapy in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Ravaei Amin , Pulsatelli Lia , Assirelli Elisa , Meliconi Riccardo , Ciaffi Jacopo , Gremese Elisa , Tolusso Barbara , Salvarani Carlo , Govoni Marcello , Rubini Michele
Published: November 2022

Background: Methotrexate (MTX) is considered the first choice among disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment. However, response to it varies as approximately 40% of the patients do not respond and would lose the most effective period of treatment time. Therefore, having a predictive biomarker before starting MTX treatment is of utmost importance. Methylation of long interspersed nucleotide element-1 (LINE-1) is generally considered a surrogate marker for global genomic methylation, which has been reported to associate with disease activity after MTX therapy. Methods: We performed a prospective study on 273 naïve early RA (ERA) patients who were treated with MTX, followed up to 12 months, and classified according to their therapy response. The baseline LINE-1 methylation levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of cases were assessed by bisulfite pyrosequencing. Results: Baseline LINE-1 methylation level per se turned out not to predict the response to the therapy, nor did age, sex, body mass index, or smoking status. However, if cases were stratified according to positivity to rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) or seronegativity, we observed an opposite association between baseline LINE-1 methylation levels and optimal response to MTX therapy among responders. The best response to MTX therapy was associated with hypermethylated LINE-1 among double-positive ERA cases (p-value: 0.002) and with hypomethylated LINE-1 in seronegative ERA patients (p-value: 0.01). Conclusion: The LINE-1 methylation level in PBMCs of naïve ERA cases associates with the degree of response to MTX therapy in an opposite way depending on the presence of RF and ACPA antibodies. Our results suggest LINE-1 methylation level as a new epigenetic biomarker for predicting the degree of response to MTX in both double-positive and seronegative ERA patients.
Comprehensive Analysis of NAC Genes Reveals Differential Expression Patterns in Response to Pst DC3000 and Their Overlapping Expression Pattern during PTI and ETI in Tomato
Authors: Xu Songzhi , Zhang Zhiyao , Zhou Jiajing , Han Xiao , Song Kun , Gu Haiying , Zhu Suqin , Sun Lijun
Published: November 2022

NAC (NAM/ATAF/CUC) transcription factors belong to a unique gene family in plants, which play vital roles in regulating diverse biological processes, including growth, development, senescence, and in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), as the most highly valued vegetable and fruit crop worldwide, is constantly attacked by Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (Pst DC3000), causing huge losses in production. Thus, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive identification of the SlNAC genes involved in response to Pst DC3000 in tomato. In this study, a complete overview of this gene family in tomato is presented, including genome localization, protein domain architectures, physical and chemical features, and nuclear location score. Phylogenetic analysis identified 20 SlNAC genes as putative stress-responsive genes, named SSlNAC 1–20. Expression profiles analysis revealed that 18 of these 20 SSlNAC genes were significantly induced in defense response to Pst DC3000 stress. Furthermore, the RNA-seq data were mined and analyzed, and the results revealed the expression pattern of the 20 SSlNAC genes in response to Pst DC3000 during the PTI and ETI. Among them, SSlNAC3, SSlNAC4, SSlNAC7, SSlNAC8, SSlNAC12, SSlNAC17, and SSlNAC19 were up-regulated against Pst DC3000 during PTI and ETI, which suggested that these genes may participate in both the PTI and ETI pathway during the interaction between tomato and Pst DC3000. In addition, SSlNAC genes induced by exogenous hormones, including indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), and methyl jasmonic acid (MeJA), were also recovered. These results implied that SSlNAC genes may participate in the Pst DC3000 stress response by multiple regulatory pathways of the phytohormones. In all, this study provides important clues for further functional analysis and of the regulatory mechanism of SSlNAC genes under Pst DC3000 stress.
Plasma miRNA Profile in High Risk of Preterm Birth during Early and Mid-Pregnancy
Authors: Illarionov Roman , Pachuliia Olga , Vashukova Elena , Tkachenko Alexander , Maltseva Anastasia , Postnikova Tatyana , Nasykhova Yulia , Bespalova Olesya , Glotov Andrey
Published: November 2022

In recent years evidence has been accumulated showing that miRNAs can act as potential biomarkers or targets for therapy of preterm birth, one of the most important problems in modern obstetrics. We have performed a prospective study of the miRNA profile in the plasma during the first and second trimesters in pregnant women with high risk of preterm birth (n = 13 cases and n = 11 controls). For the study group plasma blood samples at 9–13 weeks before diagnosis and at 22–24 weeks after start of therapy were selected. Using high-throughput sequencing technology we detected differences in the levels of 15 miRNAs (3 upregulated—hsa-miR-122-5p, hsa-miR-34a-5p, hsa-miR-34c-5p; 12 downregulated—hsa-miR-487b-3p, hsa-miR-493-3p, hsa-miR-432-5p, hsa-miR-323b-3p, hsa-miR-369-3p, hsa-miR-134-5p, hsa-miR-431-5p, hsa-miR-485-5p, hsa-miR-382-5p, hsa-miR-369-5p, hsa-miR-485-3p, hsa-miR-127-3p) (log2(FC) ≥ 1.5; FDR ≤ 0.05) during the first trimester compared with the control (non-high-risk of preterm birth pregnant women). All downregulated miRNAs in the first trimester from the placenta-specific C14MC cluster. During the second trimester no differentially expressed miRNAs were found. Our results suggest that the miRNA profile in plasma during early pregnancy may predict a high risk of preterm birth, which is important in preventing gestational problems as early as possible.
Gene Expression Profile in the Sandhoff Mouse Brain with Progression of Age
Authors: Singh Kshitiz , Quinville Brianna M. , Mitchell Melissa , Chen Zhilin , Walia Jagdeep S.
Published: November 2022

Sandhoff disease (SD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder belonging to the family of diseases called GM2 Gangliosidosis. There is no curative treatment of SD. The molecular pathogenesis of SD is still unclear though it is clear that the pathology initiates with the build-up of ganglioside followed by microglial activation, inflammation, demyelination and apoptosis, leading to massive neuronal loss. In this article, we explored the expression profile of selected immune and myelination associated transcripts (Wfdc17, Ccl3, Lyz2, Fa2h, Mog and Ugt8a) at 5-, 10- and 16-weeks, representing young, pre-symptomatic and late stages of the SD mice. We found that immune system related genes (Wfdc17, Ccl3, Lyz2) are significantly upregulated by several fold at all ages in Hexb-KO mice relative to Hexb-het mice, while the difference in the expression levels of myelination related genes is not statistically significant. There is an age-dependent significant increase in expression of microglial/pro-inflammatory genes, from 5-weeks to the near humane end-point, i.e., 16-week time point; while the expression of those genes involved in myelination decreases slightly or remains unchanged. Future studies warrant use of new high-throughput gene expression modalities (such as 10X genomics) to delineate the underlying pathogenesis in SD by detecting gene expression changes in specific neuronal cell types and thus, paving the way for rational and precise therapeutic modalities.
The Technology Acceptance Model and Older Adults’ Exercise Intentions—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Yau Yi , Hsiao Chia-Huei
Published: November 2022

Aging is a global phenomenon, and the use of exercise technology by older adults can help them to prevent disease, achieve good health, and ultimately achieve successful aging. In the past, there literature compilation studies have been conducted on sports technology and young people or on the use of technology by the older adults; however, no studies have determined the attitudes of older adults toward sports technology. This review applied a systematic literature analysis to determine the factors that correlate the technology acceptance model with the older population’s exercise attitudes. A total of 10 studies were identified as contributing to the use of exercise technology by older adults. The main findings of this review are that, of the 28 factors identified in the 10 studies, only 18 were identified as factors influencing older adults’ use of sports technology in the technology acceptance model (TAM). Among these, fifteen factors affected intention, four factors affected perceived ease of use, three factors affected perceived usefulness, and two factors affected attitudes. Finally, discussing the related factors affecting TAM allows us to provide suggestions for future research directions.