bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fault Recovery of Distribution Network with Distributed Generation Based on Pigeon-Inspired Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Liu Mingyang , Wu Jiahui , Zhang Qiang , Zheng Hongjuan
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a fault recovery strategy for a distribution network based on a pigeon-inspired optimization (PIO) algorithm is proposed to improve the recoverability of the network considering the increased proportion of distributed energy resources. First, an improved Kruskal algorithm-based island partitioning scheme is proposed considering the electrical distance and important load level during the island partitioning process. Secondly, a mathematical model of fault recovery is established with the objectives of reducing active power losses and minimizing the number of switching actions. The conventional PIO algorithm is improved using chaos, reverse strategy, and Cauchy perturbation strategy, and the improved pigeon-inspired optimization (IPIO) algorithm is applied to solve the problem of fault recovery of the distribution network. Finally, simulation analysis is carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed PIO algorithm considering a network restauration problem after fault. The results show that compared with traditional algorithms, the proposed PIO algorithm has stronger global search capability, effectively improving the node voltage after restauration and reducing circuit loss.
A Systematic Review of the Design of Serious Games for Innovative Learning: Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, or Mixed Reality?
Authors: Lee Lap-Kei , Wei Xiaodong , Chui Kwok Tai , Cheung Simon K. S. , Wang Fu Lee , Fung Yin-Chun , Lu Angel , Hui Yan Keung , Hao Tianyong , U Leong Hou , Wu Nga-In
Published: February 2024

The recent integration of educational technologies and emerging learning approaches into education systems has been driven largely by the pandemic. This paper conducts a systematic review and delves into the new wave of research on serious games designed for innovative learning using augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR). The review was referenced to the review protocol, PRISMA 2020. Using the Scopus Database with a time filter from 2007 to 2023 (27 July), we searched 329 articles and shortlisted 273 relevant studies. Notably, European countries contributed the most (62.9%) to this research area. Among the most frequent keywords, VR (90.9%) was commonly used in AR/VR/MR, while e-learning (95.3%) was among the popular innovative learning approaches. Further research studies are needed to employ AR and MR technologies, as well as other innovative learning approaches, to enable performance evaluation and comparison of various educational technologies and learning approaches. We conducted an in-depth analysis of the relevant studies and their basic characteristics. Additionally, we introduced 15 essential and recently published AR/VR/MR standards to ensure better reliability, quality, and safety of architectures, systems, products, services, and processes. To facilitate performance evaluation and analysis, we surveyed 15 recently published benchmark education datasets. This review suggested four future research directions, including multisensory experiences, generative artificial intelligence, personalization and customization, and real-time interaction.
Intelligent High-Awareness and Channel-Efficient Adaptive Beaconing Based on Density and Distribution for Vehicular Networks
Authors: Alhameed Mohammed , Mahgoub Imad , Limouchi Elnaz
Published: February 2024

In vehicle ad hoc networks (VANETs), a beacon is a periodic message sent to nearby vehicles containing essential details like the sender’s vehicle ID, location, speed, and direction. Maintaining the freshness of this information without causing network congestion requires adaptive beaconing to adjust to changes in mobility and network density. Our research, based on extensive simulation experiments, identifies specific parameter sets optimal for adapting beaconing rates to different scenarios. From this analysis, we introduce a novel scheme called high-awareness and channel-efficient adaptive beaconing (HACEAB), employing fuzzy logic to adapt to various environments and conditions. Initially, the protocol gauges network density using an adaptive threshold function, followed by estimating the node spatial distribution through the quadrat statistic method to discern uniform distribution or clustering. Utilizing these data, the protocol adjusts beaconing rates via appropriate input parameters for the fuzzy logic system. Remarkably, HACEAB represents the first beaconing scheme capable of simultaneously adjusting to changes in network density and spatial distribution. Furthermore, the protocol enhances performance by adapting transmission power to fluctuations in node density and distribution. NS-3 simulations validate the efficacy of these improvements.
Parallel Implementation of Lightweight Secure Hash Algorithm on CPU and GPU Environments
Authors: Choi Hojin , Choi SeongJun , Seo SeogChung
Published: February 2024

Currently, cryptographic hash functions are widely used in various applications, including message authentication codes, cryptographic random generators, digital signatures, key derivation functions, and post-quantum algorithms. Notably, they play a vital role in establishing secure communication between servers and clients. Specifically, servers often need to compute a large number of hash functions simultaneously to provide smooth services to connected clients. In this paper, we present highly optimized parallel implementations of Lightweight Secure Hash (LSH), a hash algorithm developed in Korea, on server sides. To optimize LSH performance, we leverage two parallel architectures: AVX-512 on high-end CPUs and NVIDIA GPUs. In essence, we introduce a word-level parallel processing design suitable for AVX-512 instruction sets and a data parallel processing design appropriate for the NVIDIA CUDA platform. In the former approach, we parallelize the core functions of LSH using AVX-512 registers and instructions. As a result, our first implementation achieves a performance improvement of up to 50.37% compared to the latest LSH AVX-2 implementation. In the latter approach, we optimize the core operation of LSH with CUDA PTX assembly and apply a coalesced memory access pattern. Furthermore, we determine the optimal number of blocks/threads configuration and CUDA streams for RTX 2080Ti and RTX 3090. Consequently, in the RTX 3090 architecture, our optimized CUDA implementation achieves about a 180.62% performance improvement compared with the initially ported LSH implementation to the CUDA platform. As far as we know, this is the first work on optimizing LSH with AVX-512 and NVIDIA GPU. The proposed implementation methodologies can be used alone or together in a server environment to achieve the maximum throughput of LSH computation.
Managing Feral Swine: Thoughts of Private Landowners in the West Gulf Region
Authors: Tian Nana , Mineau Alyssa , Gan Jianbang
Published: February 2024

Feral swine (Sus scrofa) have extensive harmed private landowners throughout the southern United States, especially in the West Gulf Region. Managing feral swine on private land is becoming increasingly critical and challenging to reduce both ecological and economic damage. To better understand private landowners’ experience and preferences for various feral swine management measures, we surveyed private landowners across the West Gulf Region (WGR) including Arkansas (AR), Louisiana (LA), and East Texas (ETX) in 2021. A total of 4500 surveys were mailed across the three states, with 2000 questionnaires sent in AR, 1500 in LA, and 1000 in ETX. Using descriptive analysis and principal components analysis (PCA), we analyzed private landowners’ experiences and preferences in feral swine management across this region. The tesults revealed that most private landowners (>85%) in the region were familiar with feral swine, and over 80% of them had ever seen the intrusion of feral swine onto their properties. Regarding the potential management measures, these landowners strongly supported lethal control methods such as capture and kill; in addition, they expressed a strong desire to receive education on and technical assistance with controlling feral swine. These findings provide a better understanding of private landowners’ familiarity and experiences with feral swine presence on their properties and their preference and support for various feral swine control measures, aiding in developing more effective feral swine management and control policies and programs in the West Gulf Region and beyond.
Application of Geoinformatics in Forest Planning and Management
Authors: Xing Jiani , Sun Shufa , Huang Qiuhua , Chen Zhuchenxi , Zhou Zixuan
Published: February 2024

Rational forest planning and management is the key to a forest’s systematic construction. It is beneficial to many aspects, such as the cultivation and preservation of a forest’s ecological resources, sustainability, forest fire prevention, and others. In recent years, some effective strategies and tactics for the planning and management of forests’ systematic construction have been established. Among them, the application of geoinformatics in forest planning and management (AGFPM) is one of the most effective and promising strategies. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive summary and analysis of the current situation. AGFPM has effectively applied in logging operations, forest road development, forest material transport, and forest fire prevention. An analysis of the research results in the past 20 years showed that decision support tools are the most used solutions to problems related to forest planning and management, especially the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) is the second most popular method. With the development of geoinformatics, it will play an increasingly important role in forest planning and management in the future.
Responses of Soil Phosphorus Cycling-Related Microbial Genes to Thinning Intensity in Cunninghamia lanceolata Plantations
Authors: Ma Dongxu , Wang Jiaqi , Chen Kuaiming , Lan Weili , Ye Yiquan , Ma Xiangqing , Lin Kaimin
Published: February 2024

Background: Microorganisms are important regulators of soil phosphorus cycling and phosphorus availability in Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook) plantations. However, the effects of thinning on soil phosphorus cycling by microbes in C. lanceolata plantations remain unclear. Methods: We performed a metagenomic sequencing analysis to investigate how thinning intensities (weak, moderate, and heavy) alter phosphorus cycling related microbial genes and their regulatory effects on soil phosphorus availability in C. lanceolata plantations. Results: Following heavy thinning, the contents of available and labile phosphorus increased by 13.8% and 36.9%, respectively, compared to moderate and weak thinning. Moreover, the relative abundance of genes associated with inorganic phosphorus solubilization increased significantly with the increase in thinning intensity, whereas genes associated with phosphorus uptake and transport significantly decreased. The metagenomic analysis results indicate that Acidobacteria (47.6%–53.5%), Proteobacteria (17.9%–19.1%), and Actinobacteria (11.7%–12.8%) are the major contributors to the functional phosphorus cycling genes in the soil. The random forest analysis results suggested that gcd, plc, phoN, ugpA, and phoR were the critical genes involved in the transformation and use of phosphorus, which in turn increased soil phosphorus availability. Structural equation modeling revealed that soil pH was the primary factor influencing changes in functional genes associated with phosphorus cycling in C. lanceolata plantations. Specifically, soil pH (ranging from 4.3 to 4.9) were positively correlated with genes involved in inorganic phosphate solubilization and organic phosphate mineralization, while negatively correlated with genes related to phosphorus uptake and transport. Conclusions: Taken together, our results demonstrate that the enhanced microbe-mediated mineralization of organic phosphorus and solubilization of inorganic phosphorus are suppressed when uptake and transportation are the mechanisms responsible for the increased soil phosphorus availability under appropriate thinning intensities. Changes in the soil microbial community and phosphorus cycling genes in response to different thinning intensities may maintain soil functionality and nutrient balance in C. lanceolata plantations. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the microbial mediation of phosphorus cycling in the soil of C. lanceolata plantations.
Identification and Expression Profile Analysis of WOX Family Genes in the Formation of Eucalyptus Adventitious Root
Authors: Chen Mingqiu , Luo Jianzhong , Lin Yan , Huang Anying , Liu Guo
Published: February 2024

The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) gene family are key players in the rooting process. Eucalyptus is an important plant species of artificial forests in China. It is mainly grown through tissue culture of many excellent clonal materials, in which rooting is a key step. In the present study, by using the genome data of Eucalyptus grandis, Corymbia citriodora, E. pellita, and E. urophylla × E. grandis, the members of the eucalyptus WOX gene family were identified and analyzed by bioinformatics techniques. The eucalyptus WOX gene family members are unstable proteins, with 7 acidic proteins and 24 basic proteins, and no signal peptide region was detected. Subcellular localization prediction indicated that all these proteins are localized in the nucleus. Motif analysis showed that eucalyptus WOX genes share the same motifs. Phylogenetic tree and gene expression analyses revealed that the eucalyptus WOX genes are highly conserved during the evolution process. Moreover, the WOX protein sequences are also highly conserved within the species, with higher similarity between woody plants. The EupWOX gene showed tissue-specific expression, with EupWOX1 and EupWOX11 specifically expressed in the roots of E. urophylla × E. pellita clonal tissue culture during the late-stage rooting. This finding suggests that EupWOX1 may be a key regulatory gene induced by the root primordium and is critically related to the rooting rate. EupWOX1, EupWOX5, and EupWOX13 could be the key regulatory genes for adventitious root formation. EupWOX1, EupWOX5, and EupWOX13 could be the key regulatory genes for the elongation of adventitious roots and the growth of adventitious lateral roots. EupWOX5 and EupWOX13 could play a critical role, not only in the formation of adventitious roots and adventitious lateral roots of E. urophylla clonal tissue culture but also in the root elongation process. These results will help us understand the complexity of rooting in different lines and provide valuable information for future functional characterization of specific genes in eucalyptus clones.
Nitrogen Metabolism during Anaerobic Fermentation of Actual Food Waste under Different pH Conditions
Authors: Zhao Chuyun , Yang Luxin , Li Huan , Deng Zhou
Published: February 2024

Acidogenic fermentation can convert food waste (FW) into small molecules of acids and alcohols, and the broth can be used as a carbon source of denitrification in wastewater treatment plants. However, the soluble nitrogen-containing substances generated in fermentation influence the quality of the carbon source, and microbial nitrogen transformation under different pH conditions has rarely been reported. In this study, four FW fermentation systems were operated continuously with a focus on nitrogen transformation, and metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses were used to reveal the metabolic pathways. The results showed that approximately 70% of nitrogen existed in solid organic matter, and the dissolution of solid proteins was limited at pH 4.0–5.0. The concentration of soluble nitrogen, encompassing both soluble organic nitrogen and ammonium, remained relatively stable across various pH conditions. However, high pH values promoted the conversion of soluble nitrogen-containing substances to ammonium, and its concentration increased by 122%, 180%, 202%, and 267% at pH 4.00, pH 4.27, pH 4.50, and pH 5.00. Lactobacillus played a crucial role in ammonium production via the arginine deiminase pathway at pH 4.0–4.5, and Prevotella was the key contributor with the assistance of glutamate dehydrogenase at pH 5.0. The findings provide insights into organic nitrogen transformation in acidogenic fermentation for optimizing FW treatment processes.
The Electronic Medical Record—A New Look at the Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Lederman Reeva , Brainin Esther , Ben-Assuli Ofir
Published: February 2024

Electronic medical record (EMR) systems possess the potential to enable smart healthcare by serving as a hub for the transformation of medical data into meaningful information, knowledge, and wisdom in the health care sector [...]
A Lightweight Neural Network Model for Disease Risk Prediction in Edge Intelligent Computing Architecture
Authors: Zhou Feng , Hu Shijing , Du Xin , Wan Xiaoli , Wu Jie
Published: February 2024

In the current field of disease risk prediction research, there are many methods of using servers for centralized computing to train and infer prediction models. However, this centralized computing method increases storage space, the load on network bandwidth, and the computing pressure on the central server. In this article, we design an image preprocessing method and propose a lightweight neural network model called Linge (Lightweight Neural Network Models for the Edge). We propose a distributed intelligent edge computing technology based on the federated learning algorithm for disease risk prediction. The intelligent edge computing method we proposed for disease risk prediction directly performs prediction model training and inference at the edge without increasing storage space. It also reduces the load on network bandwidth and reduces the computing pressure on the server. The lightweight neural network model we designed has only 7.63 MB of parameters and only takes up 155.28 MB of memory. In the experiment with the Linge model compared with the EfficientNetV2 model, the accuracy and precision increased by 2%, the recall rate increased by 1%, the specificity increased by 4%, the F1 score increased by 3%, and the AUC (Area Under the Curve) value increased by 2%.
A Review on Decentralized Finance Ecosystems
Authors: Alamsyah Andry , Kusuma Gede Natha Wijaya , Ramadhani Dian Puteri
Published: February 2024

The future of the internet is moving toward decentralization, with decentralized networks and blockchain technology playing essential roles in different sectors. Decentralized networks offer equality, accessibility, and security at a societal level, while blockchain technology guarantees security, authentication, and openness. Integrating blockchain technology with decentralized characteristics has become increasingly significant in finance; we call this “decentralized finance” (DeFi). As of January 2023, the DeFi crypto market capitalized USD 46.21 billion and served over 6.6 million users. As DeFi continues to outperform traditional finance (TradFi), it provides reduced fees, increased inclusivity, faster transactions, enhanced security, and improved accessibility, transparency, and programmability; it also eliminates intermediaries. For end users, DeFi presents asset custody options, peer-to-peer transactions, programmable control features, and innovative financial solutions. Despite its rapid growth in recent years, there is limited comprehensive research on mapping DeFi’s benefits and risks alongside its role as an enabling technology within the financial services sector. This research addresses these gaps by developing a DeFi classification system, organizing information, and clarifying connections among its various aspects. The research goal is to improve the understanding of DeFi in both academic and industrial circles to promote comprehension of DeFi taxonomy. This well-organized DeFi taxonomy aids experts, regulators, and decision-makers in making informed and strategic decisions, thereby fostering responsible integration into TradFi for effective risk management. This study enhances DeFi security by providing users with clear guidance on existing mechanisms and risks in DeFi, reducing susceptibility to misinformation, and promoting secure participation. Additionally, it offers an overview of DeFi’s role in shaping the future of the internet.
Enabling Vehicle-to-Vehicle Trust in Rural Areas: An Evaluation of a Pre-Signature Scheme for Infrastructure-Limited Environments
Authors: Almani Dimah , Muller Tim , Carpent Xavier , Yoshizawa Takahito , Furnell Steven
Published: February 2024

This research investigates the deployment and effectiveness of the novel Pre-Signature scheme, developed to allow for up-to-date reputation being available in Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communications in rural landscapes, where the communications infrastructure is limited. We discuss how existing standards and specifications can be adjusted to incorporate the Pre-Signature scheme to disseminate reputation. Addressing the unique challenges posed by sparse or irregular Roadside Units (RSUs) coverage in these areas, the study investigates the implications of such environmental factors on the integrity and reliability of V2V communication networks. Using the widely used SUMO traffic simulation tool, we create and simulate real-world rural scenarios. We have conducted an in-depth performance evaluation of the Pre-Signature scheme under the typical infrastructural limitations encountered in rural scenarios. Our findings demonstrate the scheme’s usefulness in scenarios with variable or constrained RSUs access. Furthermore, the relationships between the three variables, communication range, amount of RSUs, and degree of home-to-vehicle connectivity overnight, are studied, offering an exhaustive analysis of the determinants influencing V2V communication efficiency in rural contexts. The important findings are (1) that access to accurate Reputation Values increases with all three variables and (2) the necessity of Pre-Signatures decreases if the amount and range of RSUs increase to high numbers. Together, these findings imply that areas with a low degree of adoption of RSUs (typically rural areas) benefit the most from our approach.
Deterministic K-Identification for Future Communication Networks: The Binary Symmetric Channel Results
Authors: Salariseddigh Mohammad Javad , Dabbabi Ons , Deppe Christian , Boche Holger
Published: February 2024

Numerous applications of the Internet of Things (IoT) feature an event recognition behavior where the established Shannon capacity is not authorized to be the central performance measure. Instead, the identification capacity for such systems is considered to be an alternative metric, and has been developed in the literature. In this paper, we develop deterministic K-identification (DKI) for the binary symmetric channel (BSC) with and without a Hamming weight constraint imposed on the codewords. This channel may be of use for IoT in the context of smart system technologies, where sophisticated communication models can be reduced to a BSC for the aim of studying basic information theoretical properties. We derive inner and outer bounds on the DKI capacity of the BSC when the size of the goal message set K may grow in the codeword length n. As a major observation, we find that, for deterministic encoding, assuming that K grows exponentially in n, i.e., K=2nκ, where κ is the identification goal rate, then the number of messages that can be accurately identified grows exponentially in n, i.e., 2nR, where R is the DKI coding rate. Furthermore, the established inner and outer bound regions reflects impact of the input constraint (Hamming weight) and the channel statistics, i.e., the cross-over probability.
An Apple and Acáchul Berry Snack Rich in Bioaccessible Antioxidants and Folic Acid: A Healthy Alternative for Prenatal Diets
Authors: Corfield Rocío , Allievi Mariana C. , Rivero Roy , López Tamara A. , Pérez Oscar E. , Salvatori Daniela , Schebor Carolina
Published: February 2024

A fruit leather (apple and acáchul berry) oriented toward women of reproductive age was developed. The snack was supplemented with an ingredient composed of folic acid (FA) and whey proteins (WPI) to ensure the required vitamin intake to prevent fetal neural tube defects. In order to generate a low-calorie snack, alternative sweeteners were used (stevia and maltitol). The fruit leather composition was determined. Also, an in vitro digestion process was carried out to evaluate the bioaccessibility of compounds with antioxidant capacity (AC), total polyphenols (TPCs), total monomeric anthocyanins (ACY), and FA. The quantification of FA was conducted by a microbiological method and by HPLC. The leather contained carbohydrates (70%) and antioxidant compounds, mainly from fruits. Bioaccessibility was high for AC (50%) and TPCs (90%), and low for ACY (17%). Regarding FA, bioaccessibility was higher for WPI-FA (50%) than for FA alone (37%), suggesting that WPI effectively protected the vitamin from processing and digestion. Furthermore, the product was shown to be non-cytotoxic in a Caco-2 cell model. The developed snack is an interesting option due to its low energy intake, no added sugar, and high content of bioactive compounds. Also, the supplementation with WPI-FA improved the conservation and bioaccessibility of FA.
Exploring the Impact of Infusion Parameters and In Vitro Digestion on the Phenolic Profile and Antioxidant Capacity of Guayusa (Ilex guayusa Loes.) Tea Using Liquid Chromatography, Diode Array Detection, and Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kelebek Hasim , Sasmaz Hatice Kubra , Aksay Ozge , Selli Serkan , Kahraman Ozan , Fields Christine
Published: February 2024

Guayusa tea is derived from the leaves of the Ilex guayusa Loes. plant, which is native to the Amazon rainforest. Beyond its pleasant sensory properties, Guayusa tea is rich in antioxidants, phenolics, and minerals. In this study, the effects of infusion time, temperature, and solvent conditions on the color, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, phenolic profile, and antimicrobial activity of Guayusa (Ilex guayusa Loes.) tea were investigated. Guayusa tea samples were prepared using two different solvents, ethanol and water, with 4, 6, and 8-h infusions at 60 and 70 °C. Liquid chromatography, diode array detection, and electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS) were used to determine a comprehensive profile of phenolic compounds and to detect differences due to infusion conditions. Moreover, after the Guayusa tea infusion with the highest bioactive properties was determined, the effects of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and phenolic compounds of the Guayusa tea infusion were measured. Phenolic profile analysis identified 29 compounds, among which chlorogenic acid and its derivatives were predominant. The increase in infusion time was correlated with an elevation in total phenolic content. Significant differences were observed between water and ethanol infusions of Guayusa in terms of phenolics and antioxidants. The total amount of phenolic compounds in the samples prepared with both solvents was found to increase after oral intake, depending on the digestion stage; meanwhile, the amounts of flavonoid compounds and di-O-caffeoylquinic acid derivatives decreased during digestion.
Effects of Fish Protein Hydrolysate on the Nutritional, Rheological, Sensorial, and Textural Characteristics of Bread
Authors: Oprea Oana Bianca , Sannan Sigurd , Tolstorebrov Ignat , Claussen Ingrid Camilla , Gaceu Liviu
Published: February 2024

The potential enhancement of the protein content in bakery products is studied by adding fish protein hydrolysate (FPH) flour in varying proportions (1.5%, 3%, 4.5%, and 6%) within the production recipe. The mixtures of wheat flour and FPH obtained were comprehensively analysed using Mixolab equipment, evaluating the nutritional, rheological, and enzymatical aspects. The results underscore the substantial potential of FPH as a high-quality protein source evidenced by its polyphenol content and antioxidant value. Moreover, the utilisation of hydrolysed proteins from fish emerges as a viable strategy for reducing the water footprint in food production. Thus, FPH flour showed a protein content of 80.21%, a polyphenol content of 1452 mg GAE/100 g, and an antioxidant activity of 294 mg TE/100 g. While the bread samples made from wheat flour mixed with FPH exhibited a satisfactory rheological behaviour, the presence of an aftertaste and the pronounced fish aroma impacted consumer acceptance. Notably, only the bread sample with 1.5% added FPH met the organoleptic preferences of the consumers, receiving a commendable total acceptability score of 6.2. Additionally, this sample demonstrated favourable results in texture analysis and exhibited an extended shelf life compared to that of the control sample.
Food Waste and Lunar Phases: Evidence from a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Shan Peng , Zhang Lei , Jiang Shiyan
Published: February 2024

To examine a potential correlation between food waste and lunar phases, we have devised a randomized controlled trial. The experiment spanned from 31 March to 10 July 2022, during which we employed the direct weighing method to collect 1903 valid data points on food waste. Utilizing propensity score matching, we meticulously controlled for various factors, including dining dates, the number of diners, dining times, spending levels, and store activities. The study revealed a close relationship between lunar phases and food waste. During the new moon phase, there was an increase in both orders and waste generated by consumers. Specifically, individuals, on average, squandered an additional 6.27% of animal protein (0.79 g), 24.5% of plant protein (1.26 g), 60.95% of starchy foods (3.86 g), and 61.09% of vegetables (5.12 g), resulting in an aggregate food waste of 32.14% (10.79 g). Conversely, during the full moon phase, consumers decreased their orders and subsequently decreased food waste. On average, individuals wasted 44.65% less animal protein (5.76 g), 43.36% less plant protein (2.5 g), 85.39% less seafood (0.73 g), and 8.43% less vegetables (0.93 g), resulting in a 20.52% (7.81 g) reduction in food waste. Furthermore, we validated our conclusions through various validation methods, including model replacement, to ensure robustness and reliability.
Flavor Characteristics, Antioxidant Activity and In Vitro Digestion Properties of Bread with Large-Leaf Yellow Tea Powder
Authors: Zhang Gexing , Zhong Yang , Zhang Xinzhen , Wang Yuqi , Sun Yue , Li Xueling , Liu Zhengquan , Liang Jin
Published: February 2024

Foods containing tea could be widely utilized due to the addition of good tea ingredients, especially large-leaf yellow tea, which is rich with a good flavor. Applying this change to bread containing tea would improve its product quality. In this research, large-leaf yellow tea bread (LYB), possessing a special flavor, was developed using ultrafine large-leaf yellow tea powder and flour as the main raw materials. The amount of ultrafine large-leaf yellow tea powder added to bread was optimized using texture, sensation, and specific volume as comprehensive evaluation indicators. At the optimal dosage, the free amino acids, volatile flavor compounds, antioxidant activity, and in vitro starch digestibility of LYB were measured. Response surface optimization experimental results showed that the comprehensive score of bread was highest when the added amount of ultrafine large-leaf yellow tea powder was 3%. In particular, compared to blank bread (BB), adding ultrafine large-leaf yellow tea powder into bread could effectively increase its amino acid composition, enhance its volatile flavor compounds, improve the antioxidant capacity, and reduce the digestibility of starch.
Review of the Uses of Acoustic Emissions in Monitoring Cavitation Erosion and Crack Propagation
Authors: Fernández-Osete Ismael , Bermejo David , Ayneto-Gubert Xavier , Escaler Xavier
Published: February 2024

Nowadays, hydropower plants are being used to compensate for the variable power produced by the new fluctuating renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and to stabilise the grid. Consequently, hydraulic turbines are forced to work more often in off-design conditions, far from their best efficiency point. This new operation strategy increases the probability of erosive cavitation and of hydraulic instabilities and pressure fluctuations that increase the risk of fatigue damage and reduce the life expectancy of the units. To monitor erosive cavitation and fatigue damage, acoustic emissions induced by very-high-frequency elastic waves within the solid have been traditionally used. Therefore, acoustic emissions are becoming an important tool for hydraulic turbine failure detection and troubleshooting. In particular, artificial intelligence is a promising signal analysis research hotspot, and it has a great potential in the condition monitoring of hydraulic turbines using acoustic emissions as a key factor in the digitalisation process. In this paper, a brief introduction of acoustic emissions and a description of their main applications are presented. Then, the research works carried out for cavitation and fracture detection using acoustic emissions are summarised, and the different levels of development are compared and discussed. Finally, the role of artificial intelligence is reviewed, and expected directions for future works are suggested.
A Class of Sixth-Order Iterative Methods for Solving Nonlinear Systems: The Convergence and Fractals of Attractive Basins
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Li Wenshuo
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a Newton-type iterative scheme for solving nonlinear systems is designed. In the process of proving the convergence order, we use the higher derivatives of the function and show that the convergence order of this iterative method is six. In order to avoid the influence of the existence of higher derivatives on the proof of convergence, we mainly discuss the convergence of this iterative method under weak conditions. In Banach space, the local convergence of the iterative scheme is established by using the ω-continuity condition of the first-order Fréchet derivative, and the application range of the iterative method is extended. In addition, we also give the radius of a convergence sphere and the uniqueness of its solution. Finally, the superiority of the new iterative method is illustrated by drawing attractive basins and comparing them with the average iterative times of other same-order iterative methods. Additionally, we utilize this iterative method to solve both nonlinear systems and nonlinear matrix sign functions. The applicability of this study is demonstrated by solving practical chemical problems.
The Finite Difference Method and Analysis for Simulating the Unsteady Generalized Maxwell Fluid with a Multi-Term Time Fractional Derivative
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Tianzeng , Zhao Yu
Published: February 2024

The finite difference method is used to solve a new class of unsteady generalized Maxwell fluid models with multi-term time-fractional derivatives. The fractional order range of the Maxwell model index is from 0 to 2, which is hard to approximate with general methods. In this paper, we propose a new finite difference scheme to solve such problems. Based on the discrete H1 norm, the stability and convergence of the considered discrete scheme are discussed. We also prove that the accuracy of the method proposed in this paper is O(τ+h2). Finally, some numerical examples are provided to further demonstrate the superiority of this method through comparative analysis with other algorithms.
Powdered Cross-Linked Gelatin Methacryloyl as an Injectable Hydrogel for Adipose Tissue Engineering
Authors: De Maeseneer Tess , Van Damme Lana , Aktan Merve Kübra , Braem Annabel , Moldenaers Paula , Van Vlierberghe Sandra , Cardinaels Ruth
Published: February 2024

The tissue engineering field is currently advancing towards minimally invasive procedures to reconstruct soft tissue defects. In this regard, injectable hydrogels are viewed as excellent scaffold candidates to support and promote the growth of encapsulated cells. Cross-linked gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) gels have received substantial attention due to their extracellular matrix-mimicking properties. In particular, GelMA microgels were recently identified as interesting scaffold materials since the pores in between the microgel particles allow good cell movement and nutrient diffusion. The current work reports on a novel microgel preparation procedure in which a bulk GelMA hydrogel is ground into powder particles. These particles can be easily transformed into a microgel by swelling them in a suitable solvent. The rheological properties of the microgel are independent of the particle size and remain stable at body temperature, with only a minor reversible reduction in elastic modulus correlated to the unfolding of physical cross-links at elevated temperatures. Salts reduce the elastic modulus of the microgel network due to a deswelling of the particles, in addition to triple helix denaturation. The microgels are suited for clinical use, as proven by their excellent cytocompatibility. The latter is confirmed by the superior proliferation of encapsulated adipose tissue-derived stem cells in the microgel compared to the bulk hydrogel. Moreover, microgels made from the smallest particles are easily injected through a 20G needle, allowing a minimally invasive delivery. Hence, the current work reveals that powdered cross-linked GelMA is an excellent candidate to serve as an injectable hydrogel for adipose tissue engineering.
Transcriptomic Profiling at the Maternal-to-Zygotic Transition in Leech, Helobdella austinensis
Authors: Hsaio Samuel , Saglam Naim , Morrow David , Shain Daniel H.
Published: February 2024

The glossiphoniid leech, Helobdella austinensis, is an experimentally tractable member of the superphylum, Lophotrochozoa. Its large embryonic cells, stereotyped asymmetric cell divisions and ex vivo development capabilities makes it a favorable model for studying the molecular and cellular events of a representative spiralian. In this study, we focused on a narrow developmental time window of ~6–8 h, comprising stages just prior to and immediately following zygote deposition. Employing RNA-Seq methodology, we identified differentially expressed transcripts at this fundamental ontogenic boundary, known as the maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT). Gene expression changes were characterized by the massive degradation of maternal RNAs (~45%) coupled with the rapid transcription of ~5000 zygotic genes (~20% of the genome) in the first mitotic cell cycle. The latter transcripts encoded a mixture of cell maintenance and regulatory proteins that predictably influence downstream developmental events.
Erythrokeratodermia Variabilis-like Phenotype in Patients Carrying ABCA12 Mutations
Authors: Hotz Alrun , Fölster-Holst Regina , Oji Vinzenz , Bourrat Emmanuelle , Frank Jorge , Marrakchi Slaheddine , Ennouri Mariem , Wankner Lotta , Komlosi Katalin , Alter Svenja , Fischer Judith
Published: February 2024

Erythrokeratodermia variabilis (EKV) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by well-demarcated erythematous patches and hyperkeratotic plaques. EKV is most often transmitted in an autosomal dominant manner. Until recently, only mutations in connexins such as GJB3 (connexin 31), GJB4 (connexin 30.3), and occasionally GJA1 (connexin 43) were known to cause EKV. In recent years, mutations in other genes have been described as rare causes of EKV, including the genes KDSR, KRT83, and TRPM4. Features of the EKV phenotype can also appear with other genodermatoses: for example, in Netherton syndrome, which hampers correct diagnosis. However, in autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI), an EKV phenotype has rarely been described. Here, we report on seven patients who clinically show a clear EKV phenotype, but in whom molecular genetic analysis revealed biallelic mutations in ABCA12, which is why the patients are classified in the ARCI group. Our study indicates that ARCI should be considered as a differential diagnosis in EKV.
Heat-Resistant Inbred Lines Coordinate the Heat Response Gene Expression Remarkably in Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Xue Ming , Han Xiaoyue , Zhang Luyao , Chen Saihua
Published: February 2024

High temperatures are increasingly becoming a prominent environmental factor accelerating the adverse influence on the growth and development of maize (Zea mays L.). Therefore, it is critical to identify the key genes and pathways related to heat stress (HS) tolerance in maize. Great challenges have been faced in dissecting genetic mechanisms and uncovering master genes for HS tolerance. Here, Z58D showed more thermotolerance than AF171 at the seedling stage with a lower wilted leaf rate and H2O2 accumulation under HS conditions. Transcriptomic analysis identified 3006 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in AF171 and 4273 DEGs in Z58D under HS treatments, respectively. Subsequently, GO enrichment analysis showed that commonly upregulated genes in AF171 and Z58D were significantly enriched in the following biological processes, including protein folding, response to heat, response to temperature stimulus and response to hydrogen peroxide. Moreover, the comparison between the two inbred lines under HS showed that response to heat and response to temperature stimulus were significantly over-represented for the 1234 upregulated genes in Z58D. Furthermore, more commonly upregulated genes exhibited higher expression levels in Z58D than AF171. In addition, maize inbred CIMBL55 was verified to be more tolerant than B73, and more commonly upregulated genes also showed higher expression levels in CIMBL55 than B73 under HS. These consistent results indicate that heat-resistant inbred lines may coordinate the remarkable expression of genes in order to recover from HS. Additionally, 35 DEGs were conserved among five inbred lines via comparative transcriptomic analysis. Most of them were more pronounced in Z58D than AF171 at the expression levels. These candidate genes may confer thermotolerance in maize.
A Scalable and Robust Chloroplast Genotyping Solution: Development and Application of SNP and InDel Markers in the Maize Chloroplast Genome
Authors: Wang Rui , Yang Yang , Tian Hongli , Yi Hongmei , Xu Liwen , Lv Yuanda , Ge Jianrong , Zhao Yikun , Wang Lu , Zhou Shiliang , Wang Fengge
Published: February 2024

Maize(Zea mays. L) is a globally important crop, and understanding its genetic diversity is crucial for plant breeding phylogenetic analyses and comparative genetics. While nuclear markers have been extensively used for mapping agriculturally important genes, they are limited in recognizing characteristics, such as cytoplasmic male sterility and reciprocal cross hybrids. In this study, we performed next-generation sequencing of 176samples, and the maize cultivars represented five distinct groups. A total of 89 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 11 insertion/deletion polymorphisms (InDels) were identified. To enable high-throughput detection, we successfully amplified and confirmed 49 SNP and InDel markers, which were defined as a Varietal Chloroplast Panel (VCP) using the Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP). The specific markers provided a valuable tool for identifying chloroplast groups. The verification experiment, focusing on the identification of reciprocal cross hybrids and cytoplasmic male sterility hybrids, demonstrated the significant advantages of VCP markers in maternal inheritance characterization. Furthermore, only a small subset of these markers is needed to provide useful information, showcasing the effectiveness of these markers in elucidating the artificial selection process of elite maize lines.
Genome-Wide Association Study Revealed Putative SNPs and Candidate Genes Associated with Growth and Meat Traits in Japanese Quail
Authors: Volkova Natalia A. , Romanov Michael N. , Abdelmanova Alexandra S. , Larionova Polina V. , German Nadezhda Yu. , Vetokh Anastasia N. , Shakhin Alexey V. , Volkova Ludmila A. , Sermyagin Alexander A. , Anshakov Dmitry V. , Fisinin Vladimir I. , Griffin Darren K. , Sölkner Johann , Brem Gottfried , McEwan John C. , Brauning Rudiger , Zinovieva Natalia A.
Published: February 2024

The search for SNPs and candidate genes that determine the manifestation of major selected traits is one crucial objective for genomic selection aimed at increasing poultry production efficiency. Here, we report a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for traits characterizing meat performance in the domestic quail. A total of 146 males from an F2 reference population resulting from crossing a fast (Japanese) and a slow (Texas White) growing breed were examined. Using the genotyping-by-sequencing technique, genomic data were obtained for 115,743 SNPs (92,618 SNPs after quality control) that were employed in this GWAS. The results identified significant SNPs associated with the following traits at 8 weeks of age: body weight (nine SNPs), daily body weight gain (eight SNPs), dressed weight (33 SNPs), and weights of breast (18 SNPs), thigh (eight SNPs), and drumstick (three SNPs). Also, 12 SNPs and five candidate genes (GNAL, DNAJC6, LEPR, SPAG9, and SLC27A4) shared associations with three or more traits. These findings are consistent with the understanding of the genetic complexity of body weight-related traits in quail. The identified SNPs and genes can be used in effective quail breeding as molecular genetic markers for growth and meat characteristics for the purpose of genetic improvement.
Multiple Transitions between Y Chromosome and Autosome in Tago’s Brown Frog Species Complex
Authors: Miura Ikuo , Shams Foyez , Ohki Jun’ichi , Tagami Masataka , Fujita Hiroyuki , Kuwana Chiao , Nanba Chiyo , Matsuo Takanori , Ogata Mitsuaki , Mawaribuchi Shuuji , Shimizu Norio , Ezaz Tariq
Published: February 2024

Sex chromosome turnover is the transition between sex chromosomes and autosomes. Although many cases have been reported in poikilothermic vertebrates, their evolutionary causes and genetic mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we report multiple transitions between the Y chromosome and autosome in the Japanese Tago’s brown frog complex. Using chromosome banding and molecular analyses (sex-linked and autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs, from the nuclear genome), we investigated the frogs of geographic populations ranging from northern to southern Japan of two species, Rana tagoi and Rana sakuraii (2n = 26). Particularly, the Chiba populations of East Japan and Akita populations of North Japan in R. tagoi have been, for the first time, investigated here. As a result, we identified three different sex chromosomes, namely chromosomes 3, 7, and 13, in the populations of the two species. Furthermore, we found that the transition between the Y chromosome (chromosome 7) and autosome was repeated through hybridization between two or three different populations belonging to the two species, followed by restricted chromosome introgression. These dynamic sex chromosome turnovers represent the first such findings in vertebrates and imply that speciation associated with inter- or intraspecific hybridization plays an important role in sex chromosome turnover in frogs.