bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RESEARCH OF THE STABILITY OF TRANSPARENT FACADE STRUCTURES UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF HIGH TEMPERATURES
Authors: Maiboroda R. , Rashkevіch N. , Otrosh Yu. , Kirichenko D.
Published: December 2024

The authors in the scientific work described the results of studies of the stability of translucent structures of high-rise buildings under the influence of high temperatures. The researchers analyzed the mechanism of glass destruction in fire conditions, in particular, studied its reaction to sharp temperature fluctuations, the formation of cracks and subsequent destruction under the influence of thermal loads. The mechanism of fire propagation through window openings on the facade of a high-rise building was studied. The authors emphasize the importance of external factors, such as wind, on the spread of flames on glass facades, as well as the influence of structural features of buildings on the speed and nature of fire development. Using the PyroSim software package, a model of the destruction of transparent structures of high-rise buildings during a fire was developed. The main stages of simulating the destruction of translucent structures are: preparation of the building model; setting fire scenarios; simulation of thermal processes; structural integrity analysis; fire spread calculation. The model allows predicting the behavior of structures. According to the simulation results of a probable fire, it should be noted that a double-glazed unit made of non-tempered glass with a thickness of 6 mm is destroyed by fire 260(±10) seconds before the arrival of fire and rescue units. After the destruction of the double-glazed windows, thermal convection of the heated combustion products and flames occurs vertically, and the glazing of the upper floor located above the fire site is exposed to high temperatures. The maximum temperature, which is recorded using thermocouples, is on average 300-330 ºC, which is quite close to the temperature values of 350 ºC at which there is a high probability of destruction of a double-glazed unit made of untempered glass 6 mm thick. As a result, there is a high probability of fire spreading through the glazing to the floors above.
STATE INSTITUTION «NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTER FOR RADIATION MEDICINE, HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES OF UKRAINE» – RESEARCH ACTIVITIES AND SCIENTIFIC ADVANCE IN 2023
Authors:   State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Bazyka D. , Sushko V. ,   State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Chumak A. ,   State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Fedirko P. ,   State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Talko V. ,   State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», Yanovych L. ,   State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine»
Published: December 2024

Research activities and scientific advance achieved in 2023 at the State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine» (NRCRM) concerning medical problems of the Chornobyl disaster, radiation medicine, radiobiology, radiation hygiene and epidemiology in collaboration with the WHO network of medical preparedness and assistance in radiation accidents are outlined in the annual report. The report presents the results of fundamental and applied research works of the study of radiation effects and health effects of the Chornobyl accident. The institution has been reorganized and since December 2023 has been called the State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology» (NRCRM).
The report also shows the results of scientific-organizational and health care work, staff training.
The Scientific Council meeting of NAMS approved the NRCRM Annual Report.
Key words: NRCRM; Chornobyl; radiation effects; epidemiology; radiation hygiene; treatment of victims; international cooperation; personnel.
Вплив конфліктологічної компетентності на професійну ідентичність педагогів: структурно-функціональний підхід
Authors: Варварук Христина
Published: December 2024

У статті аналізується значення конфліктологічної компетентності в процесі формування професійної ідентичності вчителів. Основна увага приділяється вивченню впливу конфліктологічних знань та навичок на розвиток особистісних і професійних якостей вчителів.
Досліджуються ключові складові конфліктологічної компетентності, які включають знання про природу конфліктів, уміння застосовувати різноманітні техніки вирішення конфліктів, а також навички медіації та асертивності. В статті обґрунтовується, що висока конфліктологічна компетентність сприяє формуванню позитивної професійної ідентичності, що, в свою чергу, підвищує ефективність педагогічної діяльності.
Структурно-функціональний підхід використовується для аналізу взаємозв’язку між цими двома аспектами, зокрема, шляхом вивчення того, як різні компоненти конфліктологічної компетентності впливають на когнітивні, емоційні та поведінкові складові професійної ідентичності. Дослідження має практичне значення для освітніх установ, які прагнуть вдосконалити підготовку педагогічних кадрів, а також для науковців, які досліджують питання професійної ідентичності та конфліктології в освіті.
Ключові слова:конфліктологічна компетентність, професійна ідентичність, структурно-функціональний підхід, модель, конфлікт, асертивність.
Yaşlı diyabetli bireylerin sağlık algısının incelenmesi
Authors: Zengin Neriman , Demirtaş Selin
Published: December 2024

Amaç: Araştırma yaşlı diyabetli bireylerde sağlık algısını incelemek amacı ile tanımlayıcı kesitsel bir çalışma olarak gerçekleştirildi. Yöntem: Araştırmanın evrenini, Ağustos 2023- Ocak 2024 tarihlerinde bir eğitim araştırma hastanesi iç hastalıkları kliniğine başvuran 65 yaş ve üzeri diyabetli bireyler, örneklemini ise 65 yaş ve üzeri, tip 1 ve tip 2 diyabet tanısı olan, soruları anlayabilecek bilişsel yeterlilikte, iletişim ve iş birliğine açık olan 253 birey oluşturdu. Araştırma veri toplam aracı olarak Hasta Bilgi Formu, Sağlık Algısı Ölçeği (SAÖ) kullanılarak yüz yüze görüşme tekniği ile toplandı. Veriler tanımlayıcı istatistiksel analizler, fark analizleri ile incelendi. Bulgular: Yaş ortalaması 72.93 ± 5.67 olan yaşlı diyabetli bireylerin ortalama hastalık süreleri 21.10±9.74 yıl ve %68’i tip 2 diyabet olduğu belirlendi. SAÖ toplam puanı 44.28±5.34 olarak bulundu. SAÖ puanı sosyo-demografik özelliklere göre incelendiğinde yaş ile arasında negatif yönde zayıf düzeyde anlamlı ilişki ve öğrenim düzeyine göre istatistiksel anlamlı farklılık olduğu belirlendi. Diyabetle ilgili özelliklere göre SAÖ puanı incelendiğinde HbA1c düzeyi, evde düzenli kan şekeri ölçümü yapma durumu ve diyabet nedeni ile kontrolle gitme ve diyabet nedeni ile hastaneye yatma durumuna göre istatistiksel anlamlı farklılık gösterdiği saptandı. Sonuç: Yaşlı diyabetik bireylerde yaş artarken sağlık algının azaldığı, öğrenim düzeyi artarken olumlu yönde sağlık algısının arttığı ve HbA1c düzeyi %7.5 altında olan, evde düzenli kan şekeri ölçümü yapan, altı ayda bir kontrolle giden ve diyabet nedeni ile hastaneye yatışı olmayan diyabetli yaşlı bireylerin sağlık algısının yüksek olduğu belirlendi. Sağlık algısı yaşlı diyabetli bireylerde tedaviye uyumu etkilemektedir.
Proposals for an algorithm for determining combat losses of personnel for the purpose of predicting changes in the combat efficiency of weapons and military equipment
Authors: Kudrytskyi Maksym , Pater Nadiya , Kostrytsia Viktoriya
Published: December 2024

The article presents proposals for an algorithm for determining combat sanitary and irreversible losses of personnel in order to predict changes in the effectiveness of the combat use of weapons and military equipment.
To do this, the authors proposed a coefficient for maintaining the effectiveness of combat use, which takes into account the results of the joint functioning of such systems: provision of workable samples of weapons and military equipment (subsystems of production and procurement, restoration, reserve); provision of expendable material and technical means (missiles and ammunition, fuels and lubricants): training systems for military personnel (crews).
The coefficient theoretically confirms the fact that the effectiveness of combat use of a unit (subdivision) during military operations depends on the availability of combat-ready weapons and military equipment, including those equipped with trained crews, consumable material and technical resources (missiles and ammunition, materials, etc.).
 Based on this, the authors proposed an algorithm for determining combat sanitary and irretrievable losses based on the use of the expert assessment method.
The fundamental novelty of the proposed proposals is that the determination of combat sanitary and irretrievable losses is carried out taking into account the amount of average daily losses of weapons and military equipment during combat operations and their structure. That is, the authors have established a relationship between the degree of damage to a weapon and military equipment sample (weak, medium and strong damage to a weapon and military equipment sample received as a result of fire from the enemy) and combat sanitary and irretrievable losses of personnel.
This allows for a more accurate determination of the number of combat-ready weapons and military equipment samples (working weapons and military equipment samples, equipped with a crew and expendable material and technical means) in a unit (subdivision), which allows for forecasting changes in the effectiveness of their combat use.
In the future, the proposed proposals can be used in headquarters (services) for planning the use of troops (forces) during combat operations.
Analysis of the application potential of the "Kanonir" computer artillery range in the training of ground artillery specialists
Authors: Balandin Maksim , Dorokhov Oleg , Kliui Vadym , Milochkin Victor , Podliesnyi Oleh , Volkov Ihor
Published: December 2024

An analysis of the technical capabilities of the computer artillery range (the "Kanonir" product) has been conducted to support the training of cadets and officers in artillery units on topics such as optical and aerial reconnaissance, target detection and acquisition, and execution of fire missions against moving and stationary targets using various methods to determine fire settings. The accuracy of object placement, structures, local landmarks, and characteristic landscape points on the simulator's 3D terrain map was verified by comparing coordinates and elevations. The accuracy of determining topographic data for targets, calculating corrections for deviations from standard firing conditions, and determining fire settings for various artillery systems with standard ammunition was also checked. The possibilities of using this computer range for performing individual fire missions on simulation tools were evaluated. A comprehensive analysis of this software product's capabilities for use in the training of cadets and officers of artillery units was performed. Based on the analysis results, the primary training areas in which the "Kanonir" product is appropriate to use were identified. The results of a pedagogical experiment conducted using the "Kanonir" product in the training of cadets in the "Shooting and Fire Control" course were presented. Additionally, practical recommendations were provided for preparing, setting up, using, and, overall, improving the effectiveness of this software in the training of cadets and artillery officers.
FINANCIAL LITERACY, SOCIAL CAPITAL, DEMOGRAPHY, FINANCIAL INCLUSION, AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: THE ROLE OF THE ALIGNMENT USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Suyanto
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the influence of financial literacy, social capital, demography, and financial inclusion on financial performance and the role of alignment moderation in information technology (IT). The samples used in this study were 701 respondents from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The data were analyzed using the regression method and test of Moderated Regression Analysis Interaction. The results show that the financial performance of those MSMEs might be positively influenced by financial literacy, social capital, and financial inclusion. The financial inclusion of SMEs cannot be influenced by demography. The financial inclusion of MSMEs might be positively influenced by financial literacy, social capital, and financial inclusion in financial performance. However, the alignment of IT usage cannot promote the demographic influence on financial performance. This study also includes some consideration of the effectivity of the application of IT as a moderating factor for the influence of financial literacy, social capital, demography, and financial inclusion on the financial performance of those MSMEs.
KEY FACTORS INFLUENCING CONSUMER PURCHASE INTENTIONS FOR CHINESE BRAND ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Authors: Thoo Ai Chin  , Fu Yu  , Lo Ying Tuan  , Huam Hon Tat
Published: December 2024

In light of the escalating environmental pollution and the pressing issue of climate change attributed to vehicle emissions, a growing number of electric vehicle companies have emerged in China. Despite various study endeavors focusing on consumers' purchase intention for electric vehicles, there remains a significant gap when it comes to exploring the purchase intentions specifically related to Chinese brand electric vehicles. This study seeks to bridge this gap by examining the relationship between brand image, perceived benefits, attitude, and the purchase intention of potential consumers in the context of Chinese brand electric vehicles. The study was conducted through the distribution of questionnaires, both in offline stores specializing in Chinese brand electric vehicles and online via WenJuanXing, a survey platform. To ensure the data collected is reflective of the target audience, a purposive sampling technique was employed, gathering 187 valid questionnaires from individuals between the ages of 18 and 70 who have a genuine interest in electric vehicles and intend to make a purchase in the near future. The gathered data was analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS. This study's results prove that brand image, encompassing functional, symbolic, and experiential aspects, plays a crucial role in shaping consumers' perceived benefits and attitude, thereby significantly positively influencing their purchase intention. This study holds immense significance for car sellers and industry stakeholders. By unraveling the dynamics of brand image, perceived benefits, and consumer attitude toward Chinese brand electric vehicles, the findings provide essential insights to empower companies to align their strategies, thereby significantly motivating potential consumers to make their purchase intention a reality. Ultimately, this study contributes to the growing field of electric vehicles, particularly within the unique context of the Chinese market.
Bimbingan Teknis Formulasi Pakan Ayam Kampung Berbasis Pakan Lokal (Ampas Sagu) Di Kelurahan Alolama Kecamatan Mandonga Kota Kendari
Authors: Abadi Musram , Nafiu La Ode , Asminaya Nur Santy , Auza Fuji Astuty , Biokimestri Asma , Kusuma Prasanjaya Putu Nara , Putri Ilahude Meygi Caesarika , Nur Afandy Muhammad , Syamsul Alam Andi
Published: December 2024

Program ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pengetahuan tentang pakan ternak ayam kampung yang terdiri dari campuran ampas sagu. Program dilaksanakan selama 81 hari, yaitu pada bulan 14 September-30 November 2024 di Kelurahan Alolama Kecamatan Mandonga Kota Kendari. Pelaksanaan program dilakukan dalam bentuk Bimbingan Teknis (Bimtek) dan Penyuluhan kepada Kelompok Ternak Bina Karya. Adapun materi pelatihan pada program pengabdian ini, yaitu formulasi pakan ayam kampung berbasis pakan lokal (ampas sagu) di Kelurahan Alolama Kecamatan Mandonga Kota Kendari. Hasil yang diperoleh bahwa penyuluhan tentang formulasi pakan ayam kampung bebasis sumbedaya lokal (ampas sagu) dapat meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan peternak ayam kampung di Kelurahan Alolama Kecamatan Mandonga Kota Kendari. Oleh karena itu, perlu dilakukan pembinaan dan pendampingan lanjutan secara rutin dan berkala dengan model terintegrasi antara Perguruan Tinggi dan Pemerintah Daerah, agar usaha peternak ayam kampung dapat berkembang lebih baik dan produktivitasnya dapat meningkat serta menjadi sumber pendapatan rumah tangga peternak ayam kampung di Perkota
Organic Amendments Enhance the Remediation Potential of Economically Important Crops in Weakly Alkaline Heavy Metal-Contaminated Bauxite Residues
Authors: Zhang Xingfeng , Yu Qiankui , Gao Bo , Hu Maosheng , Chen Hongxu , Liang Yexi , Yi Haifeng
Published: December 2024

Heavy metal (HM) pollution in soil has emerged as a global concern. This study introduces a novel approach to ameliorate HM-contaminated bauxite residues (BRs) characterized by weak alkalinity and low nutrient levels. By cultivating economically important crops, this method aims to enhance the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated BR while simultaneously promoting economically important crop production. Using a pot experiment, we investigated the effects of four organic amendments (peat, cow dung, bagasse, and microbial fertilizer) on the growth and BR properties of four economically important crops (castor, ramie, sugarcane, and cassava). The application of these organic amendments obviously reduced the BRs pH by 0.6–2.22%. Organic amendment applications significantly increased the soil organic matter (SOM) content and cation exchange capacity (CEC) by 14.35 to 179.94% and 6.87 to 12.14%, respectively. Additionally, the use of organic amendments enhanced BR enzyme activity, with microbial fertilizer demonstrating a substantial increase in BR invertase activity from 131.49 to 687.61%. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content remarkably increased, whereas catalase (CAT) activity did not show significant differences. HM content analysis in different plant parts revealed HMs primarily found in the plant roots. Organic amendments mitigate the transfer of HMs from roots to shoots, thereby reducing HM content in the available parts of economically important crops. The pot experiment results demonstrated the effectiveness of the four combinations in achieving both the repair and production objectives. These combinations include planting castor and ramie with cow dung, sugarcane with peat, and cassava with bagasse. These findings underscore the feasibility of cultivating economically important crops in HM-contaminated BRs, enhancing BR quality, and augmenting farmers’ incomes. This study provides a scientific basis for mine remediation and reclamation using BRs.
Effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Fermentation Time on the Quality, Bacterial Community, and Functional Prediction of Silage from Lotus corniculatus L. in Karst Regions
Authors: Wang Yang , Yang Yang , Yang Xiaoyu , Huang Lei , Wang Puchang , Zhao Lili
Published: December 2024

Abstract: To improve the silage quality of Lotus corniculatus L. and expedite the promotion of cultivated varieties, this study investigates the impact of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on the fermentation characteristics, bacterial community, and functional aspects of silage. The experiment included a control (CK) and a Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP) treatment, with sampling conducted at 3, 7, 15, and 45 days of fermentation to monitor nutritional value and fermentation quality, as well as changes in the bacterial community at 3 and 45 days. The results indicated that compared to the CK, the addition of LP significantly increased the lactic acid, dry matter, and crude protein content (p < 0.05) while substantially decreasing the water-soluble carbohydrates, pH, NH3-N, and acetic acid levels (p < 0.05). And the effect of adding LP was the most significant after 45 days of fermentation. LP promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibited harmful bacteria, with LP becoming the predominant genus and species after 45 days of fermentation. The metabolic pathway analysis revealed that the addition of LP enhanced carbohydrate metabolism and improved the replication and repair, translation, transcription, and membrane transport functions of the bacterial community. In summary, the addition of LP significantly enhances the silage quality of L. corniculatus and may serve as an effective method for promoting the application of L. corniculatus in karst regions.
Rwandan Farmers’ Perceptions of the Acoustic Environment and the Potential for Acoustic Monitoring
Authors: Amenyedzi Destiny Kwabla , Kazeneza Micheline , Nzanywayingoma Frederic , Nsengiyumva Philibert , Bamurigire Peace , Ndashimye Emmanuel , Vodacek Anthony
Published: December 2024

Monitoring the farm acoustic environment can provide important information about processes affecting crop production. This paper assesses farmers’ knowledge and attitudes toward acoustic technology for farm monitoring in Rwanda. Stratified random sampling was used to select 430 farmers from 3 sectors. Demographic, farm, and technical knowledge data were collected from farmers with a survey. Cross-tabulation results show farmers with secondary and university education are more interested in acoustic technology than those with a primary education and farmers engaged in commercial farming are more interested in technology for monitoring acoustic sources than subsistence farmers. However, nearly all farmers are willing to deploy a listening technology to monitor the acoustic environment. Farmers have a clear priority to listen to animals on the farm, whether they are pests (specifically, birds) or livestock. A chi-square test of independence indicates a significant relationship between farmers’ consideration of technology for farm monitoring and their attitudes toward sound monitoring. Farmers want a technological solution, but demand that the solution be low-cost and provide a simple alert. The results inform system requirements for an Internet of Things acoustic network that can deliver this information to the farmer.
Improved YOLOv8 Model for Phenotype Detection of Horticultural Seedling Growth Based on Digital Cousin
Authors: Song Yuhao , Yang Lin , Li Shuo , Yang Xin , Ma Chi , Huang Yuan , Hussain Aamir
Published: December 2024

Crop phenotype detection is a precise way to understand and predict the growth of horticultural seedlings in the smart agriculture era to increase the cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency of agricultural production. Crop phenotype detection requires the consideration of plant stature and agricultural devices, like robots and autonomous vehicles, in smart greenhouse ecosystems. However, collecting the imaging dataset is a challenge facing the deep learning detection of plant phenotype given the dynamic changes among leaves and the temporospatial limits of camara sampling. To address this issue, digital cousin is an improvement on digital twins that can be used to create virtual entities of plants through the creation of dynamic 3D structures and plant attributes using RGB image datasets in a simulation environment, using the principles of the variations and interactions of plants in the physical world. Thus, this work presents a two-phase method to obtain the phenotype of horticultural seedling growth. In the first phase, 3D Gaussian splatting is selected to reconstruct and store the 3D model of the plant with 7000 and 30,000 training rounds, enabling the capture of RGB images and the detection of the phenotypes of the seedlings, overcoming temporal and spatial limitations. In the second phase, an improved YOLOv8 model is created to segment and measure the seedlings, and it is modified by adding the LADH, SPPELAN, and Focaler-ECIoU modules. Compared with the original YOLOv8, the precision of our model is 91%, and the loss metric is lower by approximately 0.24. Moreover, a case study of watermelon seedings is examined, and the results of the 3D reconstruction of the seedlings show that our model outperforms classical segmentation algorithms on the main metrics, achieving a 91.0% mAP50 (B) and a 91.3% mAP50 (M).
Determination of Wheat Growth Stages Using Image Sequences and Deep Learning
Authors: Wang Chunying , Song Xubin , Pan Weiting , Yu Haixia , Li Xiang , Liu Ping
Published: December 2024

The growth stage of wheat is key information for critical decision-making related to cultivar screening of wheat and farming activities. In order to solve the problem that it is difficult to determine the growth stages of a large number of wheat breeding materials grown in an artificial climate room accurately and quickly, the first attempt was made to determine the growth stages of wheat using image sequences of growth and development. A hybrid model (DenseNet–BiLSTM) based on the DenseNet and Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory was proposed for determining the growth stage of wheat. The spatiotemporal characteristics of wheat growth and development were modeled by DenseNet–BiLSTM synthetically to classify the growth stage of each wheat image in the sequence. The determination accuracy of the growth stages obtained by the proposed DenseNet–BiLSTM model was 98.43%. Of these, the determination precisions of the tillering, re-greening, jointing, booting, and heading period were 100%, 97.80%, 97.80%, 85.71%, and 95.65%, respectively. In addition, the accurate determination of the growth stages and further analysis of its relationship with meteorological conditions will help biologists, geneticists, and breeders to breed, screen, and evaluate wheat varieties with ecological adaptability.
Effects of Microbial Fertilizer Application on Soil Ecology in Saline–Alkali Fields
Authors: Tian Xingguo , Zhang Xiu , Yang Guoping , Wang Yu , Liu Qianru , Song Jingjing
Published: December 2024

Microbial fertilizer is an environment-friendly fertilizer that can effectively improve the microecological environment of soil, playing an important role in the remediation of saline–alkali soil and promoting sustainable agricultural development. In this study, we examined the impact of microbial fertilizer application on saline–alkali field improvement over two years. The results indicated that, compared to NS0 and NS2 (the initial sowing period without microbial fertilizer addition), the soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC) levels significantly decreased by 4.1% and 8.49% and 60.56% and 39.66% for NS1 (after the first harvest) and NS3 (after the second harvest), respectively. Compared to NS0, the concentrations of Na+ and Cl−, among the eight major ions in the soil, decreased significantly by 87.23% and 80.91% in the second year, while Ca2+ increased significantly in NS1 and NS3, being 5.27 times and 2.46 times higher than before sowing. Comparing NS3 to NS0, the sodium adsorption ratio decreased by 87.04%. The activities of soil urease, alkaline phosphatase, and invertase in NS3 increased significantly by 90.18%, 45.67%, and 82.31% compared to those in NS0. In contrast, the activity of catalase decreased by 2.79% (p < 0.05). Alpha diversity analysis demonstrated that the Ace, Chao1, and Sobs indices for both bacteria and fungi were significantly higher at NS3 than before sowing, indicating the highest species richness at this stage. The Shannon index exhibited an ascending trend, and the difference in the Simpson index was not significant. After applying microbial fertilizer in the saline–alkali field, the number of bacterial and fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) significantly increased. In the bacteria, the proportion of Proteobacteria rose, while Actinobacteriota exhibited a significant reduction. Among fungi, the proportion of Ascomycota decreased and Basidiomycota increased. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed distinct separation among treatments, indicating significant differences in microbial communities. Redundancy analysis (RDA) identified that the key physicochemical factors influencing bacterial community structure were available phosphorus (AP), electrical conductivity (EC), and pH, whereas for fungi, they were AP, available potassium (AK), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). This research presents the effects of microbial fertilizer application on the improvement in a saline–alkali field over two years. It provides a scientific basis for the remediation of the saline–alkali field via microbe-induced changes in soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activity, microbial diversity, and community structure at different periods.
An Interpretable Model for Salinity Inversion Assessment of the South Bank of the Yellow River Based on Optuna Hyperparameter Optimization and XGBoost
Authors: Liu Xia , Hu Yu , Li Xiang , Du Ruiqi , Xiang Youzhen , Zhang Fucang
Published: December 2024

Soil salinization is a serious land degradation phenomenon, posing a severe threat to regional agricultural resource utilization and sustainable development. It has been a mainstream trend to use machine-learning methods to achieve monitoring of large-scale salinized soil quickly. However, machine learning model training requires many samples and hyper-parameter optimization and lacks solvability. To compare the performance of different machine-learning models, this study conducted a soil sampling experiment on saline soils along the south bank of the Yellow River in Dalate Banner. The experiment lasted two years (2022 and 2023) during the spring bare soil period, collecting 304 soil samples. The soil salinity was estimated with the multi-source remote sensing satellite data by combining the extreme gradient boosting model (XGBoost), Optuna hyper-parameter optimization, and Shapley addition (SHAP) interpretable model. Correlation analysis and continuous variable projection were employed to identify key inversion factors. The regression effects of partial least squares regression (PLSR), geographically weighted regression (GWR), long short-term memory networks (LSTM), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) were compared. The optimal model was selected to estimate soil salinity in the study area from 2019 to 2023. The results showed that the XGBoost model fitted optimally, the test set had high R2 (0.76) and the ratio of performance to deviation (2.05), and the estimation results were consistent with the measured salinity values. SHAP analysis revealed that the salinity index and topographic factors were the primary inversion factors. Notably, the same inversion factor influenced varying soil salinity estimates at different locations. The saline soils of the study area in 2019 and 2023 were 65% and 44%, respectively, and the overall trend of soil salinization decreased. From the viewpoint of spatial distribution, the degree of soil salinization showed a gradually increasing trend from south to north, and it was most serious on the side near the Yellow River. This study is of great significance for the quantitative estimation of salinized soil in the irrigated area on the south bank of the Yellow River, the prevention and control of soil salinization, and the sustainable development of agriculture.
Measurement of Seed Cotton Color Using RGB Imaging and Color-Unet
Authors: Li Hao , Li Qingxu , Zhou Wanhuai , Zhang Ruoyu , Hong Shicheng , Zhang Mengyun , Zhai Zhiqiang
Published: December 2024

Color is a key indicator in evaluating seed cotton quality. Accurate and rapid detection of seed cotton color is essential for its storage, processing, and trade. In this study, an RGB imaging and semantic segmentation-based method was proposed for seed cotton color detection. First, a color detection system utilizing machine vision technology was developed to capture seed cotton images. Next, a Color-Unet model, incorporating convolutional block attention and improved inception E modules based on Unet, was applied to effectively remove impurities and shadows from the images, resolving the over-segmentation issue commonly encountered in traditional threshold segmentation. The results demonstrated that the pixel accuracy of segmentation reached 97.20%, the mean intersection over union was 91.81%, and the average segmentation speed was 322.3 ms per image. The Color-Unet model effectively addressed the over-segmentation problem. Subsequently, seed cotton color indexes were calculated using Hunter color formulas based on the segmented images. To evaluate the accuracy of color measurement obtained with the proposed method, a regression analysis was performed, comparing the results of those from the HX-410 measurement. The coefficient of determination of yellowness was 0.883, with a root mean square error of 0.150 and a mean relative error of 2.61%. The coefficient of determination of reflectance degree was 0.832, with a root mean square error of 1.56% and a mean relative error of 1.84%. The proposed method allows for the rapid and accurate assessment of seed cotton color from RGB images, providing a valuable technical reference for seed cotton color evaluation.
Dog–Owner Relationship and Its Association with Social Cognition in French Bulldogs
Authors: Peterca Lara , Gobbo Elena , Zupan Šemrov Manja
Published: December 2024

Our understanding of social cognition in brachycephalic dog breeds is limited. This study focused specifically on French Bulldogs and hypothesized that a closer relationship between dog and owner would improve the dogs’ understanding of nonverbal cues, particularly pointing gestures. To investigate this, we tested twenty-six dogs and their owners in a two-way object choice test in which the familiar person pointed to the bowl. As understanding of pointing gestures is influenced by human–animal interaction, we used the Monash Dog Owner Relationship Scale (MDORS) to assess various aspects of the dog–owner relationship, including dog–owner interaction, emotional closeness, and negative aspects of dog ownership and measured salivary oxytocin levels. This study examined the dogs’ correct choices and their straight approach patterns to a reward bowl. Several factors influenced the two measures of social cognition, such as the age and sex of the dog, dog–owner interaction, emotional closeness, and the choice time (time it took the dog to reach the reward bowl), but also that neutered dogs and those with no training history showed better cognitive performance. We found a very high number of correct choices, which could be attributed to the owners’ high scores on the dog–owner interaction scale. Oxytocin showed no direct effect on these measures. To increase the generalizability of the results, we suggest future studies focus on more than one breed to capture the temporal development of the owner–dog relationship and social cognitive abilities.
Rat as a Predictive Model for Human Clearance and Bioavailability of Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Robarge Jason D. , Budge Kevin M. , Her Lucy , Patterson Andrea M. , Brown-Augsburger Patricia
Published: December 2024

Background: The prediction of human clearance (CL) and subcutaneous (SC) bioavailability is a critical aspect of monoclonal antibody (mAb) selection for clinical development. While monkeys are a well-accepted model for predicting human CL, other preclinical species have been less-thoroughly explored. Unlike CL, predicting the bioavailability of SC administered mAbs in humans remains challenging as contributing factors are not well understood, and preclinical models have not been systematically evaluated. Methods: Non-clinical and clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were mined from public and internal sources for rats, cynomolgus monkeys, and humans. Intravenous (IV) and SC PK was determined in Sprague Dawley rats for fourteen mAbs without existing PK data. Together, we obtained cross-species data for 25 mAbs to evaluate CL and SC bioavailability relationships among rats, monkeys, and humans. Results: Rat and monkey CL significantly correlated with human CL and supported the use of species-specific exponents for body-weight-based allometric scaling. Notably, rat SC bioavailability significantly correlated with human SC bioavailability, while monkey SC bioavailability did not. Bioavailability also correlated with clearance. Conclusions: The rat model enables an early assessment of mAb PK properties, allowing discrimination among molecules in the discovery pipeline and prediction of human PK. Importantly, rat SC bioavailability significantly correlated with human SC bioavailability, which has not been observed with other species. Rats are cost-effective and efficient relative to monkeys and provide a valuable tool for pharmacokinetic predictions in therapeutic antibody discovery.
Multivariate Time Series Clustering with State Space Dynamical Modeling and Grassmann Manifold Learning: A Systematic Review on Human Motion Data
Authors: Heo Sebin , Teoh Andrew Beng Jin , Yu Sunjin , Oh Beom-Seok
Published: December 2024

Multivariate time series (MTS) clustering has been an essential research topic in various domains over the past decades. However, inherent properties of MTS data—namely, temporal dynamics and inter-variable correlations—make MTS clustering challenging. These challenges can be addressed in Grassmann manifold learning combined with state-space dynamical modeling, which allows existing clustering techniques to be applicable using similarity measures defined on MTS data. In this paper, we present a systematic overview of Grassmann MTS clustering from a geometrical perspective, categorizing the methods into three approaches: (i) extrinsic, (ii) intrinsic, and (iii) semi-intrinsic. Consequently, we outline 11 methods for Grassmann clustering and demonstrate their effectiveness through a comparative experimental study using human motion gesture-derived MTS data.
Post-Traumatic Segmental Tibial Defects Management: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Marrara Giovanni , Zampogna Biagio , Schick Viktor Dietrich , Larizza Leone , Rizzo Paolo , Sanzarello Ilaria , Nanni Matteo , Leonetti Danilo
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Segmental tibial defects pose significant challenges in orthopedic surgery due to their complexity and high complication rates. This systematic review aimed to evaluate both the effectiveness and outcomes of distraction osteogenesis (D.O.) and the Masquelet technique in treating post-traumatic segmental tibial defects. Materials and Methods: A literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane. Relevant retrospective and prospective observational studies with a minimum of 12 months follow-up were included. The primary outcome was bone union rate; the secondary outcomes were the type and rate of complications and the clinical and radiological outcomes. Results: Twenty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria, 18 studies reported data on D.O. and 9 on the Masquelet technique. D.O. demonstrated an overall union rate of 79.4% across 422 patients, and the Masquelet technique demonstrated an overall bone union rate of 85% across 113 patients. For D.O., on average, there was one complication per patient, and with the Masquelet technique, there were 0.5 complications per patient. Conclusions: D.O. and the Masquelet technique are the main treatment options for post-traumatic segmental tibial defects. Although union rates are similar, the Masquelet technique showed fewer complications. Treatment choice should consider patient-specific factors and more comparative studies are needed.
Risk Assessment of Soil Heavy Metals in the Jiahe River Basin of Yantai City, China
Authors: Chen Xizhuo , Zhao Pengfei , Huang Jiaxin , Liu Jun , Cao Xiaoli , Che Jing , Liao Hui , Zhu Xiaolong , Gong Qingjie
Published: December 2024

The issues related to soil environmental contamination caused by heavy metals have garnered increasing attention. In particular, the soil pollution risk in the eastern coastal regions of China has attracted widespread concern. This study surveyed heavy metals in the soils near the Jiahe River Basin of Yantai City in Shandong Province, China. A total of 213 soils were sampled and analyzed for 12 items: Cr, Hg, As, Pb, Cd, Cu, Ni, Zn, Co, V, Mn, and pH. The 11 heavy metals were evaluated using the national standard GB15618-2018, with three risk levels of background, screening, and intervention, and using pollution indices, including the contamination factor (Cf), ecological risk factor (Er), enrichment factor (EF), and index of geo-accumulation (Igeo), with different respective risk levels. The results indicate a strong consistency between the evaluations both for the index Igeo and for GB15618-2018 on five metals (i.e., Cr, Hg, As, Pb, and Cd). Therefore, the index Igeo may serve as a supplementary indicator for assessing the pollution risks of heavy metals in agricultural soils regarding samples of Cu, Ni, and Zn that exceed the screening values in GB15618-2018, as well as for Co, V, and Mn, which have not yet been established in GB15618-2018. According to the three-level classification of risk in GB15618-2018, the seven commonly used levels of the index Igeo are also incorporated into the three levels of background, screening, and intervention. The overall pollution risk of 11 heavy metals in the soils of the Jiahe River Basin of Yantai City belongs to the background level. Specifically, Hg and Pb in the total area are classified at the background level. Manganese, V, Co, Zn, Ni, and Cr are recognized at the screening level sporadically, while Cu, As, and Cd are found at the screening level in small areas. No areas within the region are classified at the intervention level.
Assessment of Body Composition, Bone Density, and Biochemical Markers of a Natural Bodybuilder During Contest Preparation
Authors: Michailidis Konstantinos , Zaras Nikolaos , Balampanos Dimitrios , Avloniti Alexandra , Stampoulis Theodoros , Protopapa Maria , Pantazis Dimitrios , Retzepis Nikolaos-Orestis , Smilios Ilias , Chatzinikolaou Athanasios
Published: December 2024

This case study aimed to evaluate the body composition and several biochemical markers during a 7-month pre-competition training period of a natural male bodybuilder. The athlete monitored his nutrition, training variables, and daily physical activity during the preparation phase. At the beginning (W31), in the middle (W18), and one week before the contest (W1), measurements included body composition via DEXA, testosterone and cortisol hormonal concentrations, and lipid, blood, and liver biochemical markers via an automated hematology analyzer. A gradual decrease in energy intake (−27.6%) and increased daily activity (169.0%) was found. Fat mass decreased from 17.9 kg (W31) to 13.1 kg (W18) and 4.2 kg (W1), while lean body mass decreased from 69.9 kg (W31) to 68.2 kg (W18) and 66.7 kg (W1). Bone density decreased linearly, and bone mass decreased from W31 to W1 by 1.7%. Testosterone decreased from 5.4 ng·mL−1 (W31) to 5.3 ng·mL−1 (W18) and 4.4 ng·mL−1 (W1), while cortisol increased from 21.3 μg·dL−1 (W31) to 20.3 μg·dL−1 (W18) and 24.4 μg·dL−1 (W1). In conclusion, a slow rate of weight loss and training with repetitions nearly to failure, combined with weekly monitoring of training and nutrition, may significantly improve body composition. However, hormone concentration and bone mass will experience mild negative effects.
Simulation of the Advection Process of Stokes Flow Inside a Rectangular Cavity Under Constant Velocities
Authors: Sobchuk Valentyn , Kurylko Oleksandr , Boryseiko Oleksandr , Perehuda Oleh , Lebedyeva Iryna , Ulitko Igor , Vashchilina Olena
Published: December 2024

A two-dimensional periodic Stokes flow of viscous incompressible fluid in a rectangular cavity with constant velocities applied to the top and bottom walls is considered. The study of advection regimes is reduced to the sequential solving of two problems. To solve the first problem, the analytical method of superposition, which allows one to obtain any desired accuracy of the velocity field, is used. To solve the second problem, which is associated with obtaining the trajectories of individual fluid particles, numerical calculations of the Cauchy problem were performed. An analysis of the boundary conditions accuracy was performed based on the control of local integration. The advection of the selected volume of fluid in the rectangular cavity under the periodic motion of walls for a finite period time based on piecewise spline cubic interpolation is modeled. The obtained numerical results agree with well-known experimental data.
Ensuring Safety and Reliability: An Overview of Lithium-Ion Battery Service Assessment
Authors: Comanescu Cezar
Published: December 2024

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are fundamental to modern technology, powering everything from portable electronics to electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems. As their use expands across various industries, ensuring the reliability and safety of these batteries becomes paramount. This review explores the multifaceted aspects of LIB reliability, highlighting recent advancements and ongoing challenges. The importance of safety has been underscored by numerous incidents, such as the well-known smartphone battery explosions and more than 10,000 fires a year at facilities throughout Australia, both linked to LIB failures. These events emphasize the need for robust reliability and safety measures to ensure consistent performance and longevity. Factors like battery chemistry, design, manufacturing, and operating conditions can all influence the reliability of LIBs. Despite their widespread use, the mechanisms of failure, failure rates, and consequences of LIB failures are still not well understood, raising significant safety concerns. Current reliability assessment techniques include experimental methods, computational models, and data-driven approaches. Emerging trends, such as advanced characterization techniques and standardized testing protocols, advocate for improved practices to enhance the reliability and safety of LIBs across all applications.
Meeting Challenges in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Glaucoma
Authors: Kooner Karanjit S. , Choo Dominic M. , Mekala Priya
Published: December 2024

Glaucoma, a progressive and multifactorial optic neurodegenerative disease, still poses significant challenges in both diagnosis and management and remains a perpetual enigma [...]
The Role of Neuroglia in the Development and Progression of Schizophrenia
Authors: Rawani Neha S. , Chan Allen W. , Todd Kathryn G. , Baker Glen B. , Dursun Serdar M.
Published: December 2024

Schizophrenia is a complex heterogenous disorder thought to be caused by interactions between genetic and environmental factors. The theories developed to explain the etiology of schizophrenia have focused largely on the dysfunction of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and glutamate with their receptors, although research in the past several decades has indicated strongly that other factors are also involved and that the role of neuroglial cells in psychotic disorders including schizophrenia should be given more attention. Although glia were originally thought to be present in the brain only to support neurons in a physical, metabolic and nutritional capacity, it has become apparent that these cells have a variety of important physiological roles and that abnormalities in their function may make significant contributions to the symptoms of schizophrenia. In the present paper, we review the interactions of brain microglia, astrocytes and oligodendroglia with aspects such as transmitter dysregulation, neuro-inflammation, oxidative stress, synaptic function, the gut microbiome, myelination and the blood–brain barrier that appear to affect the cause, development and treatment of schizophrenia. We also review crosstalk between microglia, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes and the effects of antipsychotics on neuroglia. Problems associated with studies on specific biomarkers for glia in schizophrenia are discussed.