bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of the Environment on the Case Hardening Characteristics of AISI 1018 Steel during Cassava Leaf Pack Cyaniding
Authors: Gordon Renee Erica , Kalu Egwu Eric , Adetunji Adelana Rasak , Campbell Dorr , Kalu Peter N.
Published: December 2023

As part of a comprehensive study on eco-friendly processing techniques, the influence of the heat treatment environment on the case hardening of AISI 1018 steel using pulverized cassava leaf was studied. The process was carried out at two different temperatures (850 °C and 950 °C) and under three environmental conditions: Process 1, the control experiment, was carried out in air only; in Process 2, the medium comprised pulverized cassava leaves; and in Process 3 a combination of pulverized cassava leaves plus barium carbonate (BaCO3) was used as an energizer (CBC mixture). Vickers microhardness testing and scanning electron microscopy were used to evaluate the effect of the processing environment on the case hardening of the steel. As expected, regardless of the processing temperature, Process 1 resulted in little or no hardening of the steel surface. However, notable case hardening occurred when the steel specimens were subjected to either Process 2 or Process 3. Furthermore, the inclusion of barium carbonate in Process 3 significantly enhanced the case hardening effectiveness of the cassava leaf in terms of the rate of and maximum hardness achieved. A maximum enhancement was observed at 950 °C. After 1 h, the increase in hardness was 160% and 280% for Process 2 and Process 3, respectively. Upon increasing the processing time to 5 h, the increase in hardness due to Process 2 was raised to 254%, while that of Process 3 remained at approximately 280%. The diffusivity of AISI 1018 was calculated using the microhardness data. The diffusivity was highest in Process 2 samples with values of 1.568 × 10−9 m2/s at 850 °C and 1.893 × 10−9 m2/s at 950 °C. Effective case hardening of AISI 1018 steel was carried out using the medium of cassava leaf, without the addition of barium carbonate (BaCO3) as an energizer.
Optimising Electroporation Condition for CRISPR/Cas-Mediated Knockout in Zona-Intact Buffalo Zygotes
Authors: Punetha Meeti , Kumar Dharmendra , Saini Sheetal , Chaudhary Suman , Bajwa Kamlesh Kumari , Sharma Surabhi , Mangal Manu , Yadav Prem S. , Green Jonathan A. , Whitworth Kristin , Datta Tirtha K.
Published: December 2023

Somatic cell nuclear transfer or cytoplasm microinjection has widely been used to produce genome-edited farm animals; however, these methods have several drawbacks which reduce their efficiency. In the present study, we describe an easy adaptable approach for the introduction of mutations using CRISPR-Cas9 electroporation of zygote (CRISPR-EP) in buffalo. The goal of the study was to determine the optimal conditions for an experimental method in which the CRISPR/Cas9 system is introduced into in vitro-produced buffalo zygotes by electroporation. Electroporation was performed using different combinations of voltage, pulse and time, and we observed that the electroporation in buffalo zygote at 20 V/mm, 5 pulses, 3 msec at 10 h post insemination (hpi) resulted in increased membrane permeability and higher knockout efficiency without altering embryonic developmental potential. Using the above parameters, we targeted buffalo POU5F1 gene as a proof of concept and found no variations in embryonic developmental competence at cleavage or blastocyst formation rate between control, POU5F1-KO, and electroporated control (EC) embryos. To elucidate the effect of POU5F1-KO on other pluripotent genes, we determined the relative expression of SOX2, NANOG, and GATA2 in the control (POU5F1 intact) and POU5F1-KO-confirmed blastocyst. POU5F1-KO significantly (p ≤ 0.05) altered the expression of SOX2, NANOG, and GATA2 in blastocyst stage embryos. In conclusion, we standardized an easy and straightforward protocol CRISPR-EP method that could be served as a useful method for studying the functional genomics of buffalo embryos.
Thermoregulation during Field Exercise in Horses Using Skin Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Verdegaal Elisabeth-Lidwien J. M. M. , Howarth Gordon S. , McWhorter Todd J. , Delesalle Catherine J. G.
Published: December 2023

Hyperthermia and exertional heat illness (EHI) are performance and welfare issues for all exercising horses. Monitoring the thermoregulatory response allows for early recognition of metabolic heat accumulation during exercise and the possibility of taking prompt and effective preventative measures to avoid a further increase in core body temperature (Tc) leading to hyperthermia. Skin temperature (Tsk) monitoring is most used as a non-invasive tool to assess the thermoregulatory response pre- and post-exercise, particularly employing infrared thermographic equipment. However, only a few studies have used thermography to monitor skin temperature continuously during exercise. This commentary provides an overview of studies investigating surface skin temperature mainly by infrared thermography (IRT) during exercise. The scientific evidence, including methodologies, applications, and challenges associated with (continuous) skin temperature monitoring in horses during field exercise, is discussed. The commentary highlights that, while monitoring Tsk is straightforward, continuous Tsk alone does not always reliably estimate Tc evolvement during field exercise. In addition, inter-individual differences in thermoregulation need to be recognized and accounted for to optimize individual wellbeing. With the ongoing development and application of advanced wearable monitoring technology, there may be future advances in equipment and modeling for timely intervention with horses at hyperthermic risk to improve their welfare. However, at this point, infrared thermographic assessment of Tsk should always be used in conjunction with other clinical assessments and veterinary examinations for a reliable monitoring of the welfare of the horse.
Conservation Genetics of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Caretta caretta, from the Central Mediterranean: An Insight into the Species’ Reproductive Behaviour in Maltese Waters
Authors: Vella Adriana , Vella Noel
Published: December 2023

Loggerhead sea turtle, Caretta caretta (Linnaeus, 1758), nestlings were investigated through specimens found dead either after hatching or unhatched (n = 120) from eight nests around the Maltese islands (Central Mediterranean). Molecular genetics was used to conduct maternity and paternity tests of the collected specimens utilizing expanded mitochondrial DNA sequences from the control region (858 bp) and 25 microsatellite loci (12 dinucleotide loci and 13 tetranucleotide loci). Mitochondrial data produced two haplotypes, CC-A2.1 and CC-A3.1, with the most common haplotype being present in seven nests. Microsatellite data revealed the identity of six different females that were involved in the deposition of the eggs in the eight turtle nests analysed. This confirms that two females laid multiple nests. Additionally, microsatellite data allowed for the determination of multiple paternity, with one clutch being sired by two fathers. These results are useful for monitoring the genetic diversity of loggerhead sea turtle nestlings and of the turtle mothers and fathers contributing to future turtle offspring, which rely on Maltese sandy beaches for their successful start to life. Effective conservation management benefits from merging scientific knowledge with effective measures at potential nesting sites to avoid losses of nestlings caused by human negligence.
Effects of Curcumin on the Egg Quality and Hepatic Lipid Metabolism of Laying Hens
Authors: Li Chenxuan , Gao Jiang , Guo Shihui , He Bin , Ma Wenqiang
Published: December 2023

Curcumin, the major active compound of turmeric, has shown potential benefits for poultry health and production in various studies. However, its specific role in enhancing the egg quality and liver health of laying hens, as well as its underlying mechanisms, have yet to be determined. Here, a total of 600 Su Qin No.1 Laying hens, aged 55 weeks and with similar laying rates, were randomly placed into five groups, with 10 replicates of 12 hens each. Curcumin doses of 0, 100, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg were added to the basal diet to form the experimental groups. After an 8-week feeding period, no significant changes were observed in the production performance of laying hens due to curcumin supplementation. However, additional tests revealed that a 200 mg/kg curcumin supplementation improved albumen height, yolk color, Haugh unit, and eggshell thickness, while reducing the thin albumen’s weight and proportion. This was accompanied by a significant down-regulation of the mRNA expression level of the Prolactin Receptor (Prlr) in the oviduct magnum. Furthermore, the number of hepatic lipid droplets and the hepatic triglyceride (TG) content, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly reduced, indicating improved hepatic lipid metabolism and oxidative status. This was accompanied by a significant reduction in the expressions of sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 gene (Srebp-1), fatty acid synthase gene (Fasn), as well as fatty acid synthase (FASN), which are closely related to fatty acid synthesis in the liver. Overall, these findings suggest that curcumin supplementation at a dosage of 200 mg/kg could lead to significant improvements in egg quality and hepatic lipid metabolism.
Effects of Dietary Fat Level of Concentrate Mix on Growth Performance, Rumen Characteristics, Digestibility, Blood Metabolites, and Methane Emission in Growing Hanwoo Steers
Authors: Cho Hyunjin , Jeong Sinyong , Kang Kyewon , Lee Mingyung , Jeon Seoyoung , Kang Hamin , Kim Hanbeen , Seo Jakyeom , Oh Joonpyo , Seo Seongwon
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the effect of different dietary fat levels in concentrate mixes on the growth performance, rumen characteristics, digestibility, blood metabolites, and methane emissions in growing Hanwoo steers. Thirty steers (386 ± 24.6 kg of body weight [BW]; 12 months old), blocked by BW, were randomly assigned to three dietary treatments with varying fat concentrations in concentrate mix (48, 74, and 99 g of ether extract per kg dry matte [DM]). The fat intake of the low-fat treatment represented 4.15% of the total dry matter intake (DMI), while the medium- and high-fat treatments accounted for 5.77% and 7.23% of total DMI, respectively. Concentrate mix DMI decreased with increasing fat level (p < 0.01). The growth rate and digestibility did not significantly differ based on the fat level (p > 0.05). As the fat level increased, propionate in the total ruminal volatile fatty acids increased, and butyrate and acetate-to-propionate decreased (p < 0.01). Cholesterol in blood serum increased significantly with increasing dietary fat levels (p < 0.01). Methane emissions exhibited a linear decrease with increasing fat level (p < 0.05). In conclusion, elevating fat content in the concentrates up to 100 g/kg DM reduced methane emissions without compromising the growth performance of growing Hanwoo steers.
Agroecological Zone-Specific Diet Optimization for Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) through Nutritional and In Vitro Fermentation Studies
Authors: Singh Sultan , Koli Pushpendra , Kushwaha B. P. , Anele Uchenna Y. , Bhattacharya Sumana , Ren Yonglin
Published: December 2023

The water buffalo faces challenges in optimizing nutrition due to varying local feed resources. In response to this challenge, the current study introduces originality by addressing the lack of region-specific feeding strategies for water buffaloes. This is achieved through the formulation of 30 different diets based on locally available resources, offering a tailored approach to enhance nutritional optimization in diverse agroecological contexts. These diets were segmented into three groups of ten, each catering to the maintenance (MD1 to MD10), growth (GD1 to GD10), and lactation/production (PD1 to PD10) needs of buffaloes. Utilizing local feed ingredients, each diet was assessed for its chemical composition, in vitro gas and methane emissions, and dry matter (DM) disappearance using buffalo rumen liquor. The production diets (127 and 32.2 g/kg DM) had more protein and fats than the maintenance diets (82.0 and 21.0 g/kg DM). There was less (p < 0.05) fiber in the production diets compared to the maintenance ones. Different protein components (PB1, PB2) were lower (p < 0.05) in the maintenance diets compared to the growth and production ones, but other protein fractions (PB3, Pc) were higher (p < 0.05) in the maintenance diet. Furthermore, the growth diets had the highest amount of other protein components (PA), while the maintenance diets had the highest amount of soluble carbohydrates (586 g/kg DM), whereas the carbohydrate fraction (CB1) was highest (p < 0.05) in the production diets (187 g/kg DM), followed by the growth (129 g/kg DM) and maintenance diets (96.1 g/kg DM). On the contrary, the carbohydrate CA fraction was (p < 0.05) higher in the maintenance diets (107 g/kg DM) than in the growth (70.4 g/kg DM) and production diets (44.7 g/kg DM). The in vitro gas production over time (12, 24, and 48 h) was roughly the same for all the diets. Interestingly, certain components (ether extract, lignin, NDIN, ADIN, and PB3 and CC) of the diets seemed to reduce methane production, while others (OM, NPN, SP, PA and PB1, tCHO and CB2) increased it. In simple words, this study reveals that different diets affect gas production during digestion, signifying a significant step towards a promising future for buffalo farming through tailored, region-specific formulations.
A Comparison of the Intrarectal and Intramuscular Effects of a Dexmedetomidine, Ketamine and Midazolam Mixture on Tear Production in Cats: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Paolini Andrea , Vignoli Massimo , Bernabò Nicola , Bianchi Amanda , Tamburro Roberto , Pincelli Maria Cristina , Del Signore Francesca , De Bonis Andrea , Rosto Martina , Collivignarelli Francesco , Distefano Clelia , Cerasoli Ilaria
Published: December 2023

Cats are often easily stressed and uncooperative. The use of sedative agents in the feline species is widely used to perform even minor clinical and diagnostic procedures. The aim of this study is to assess the impact on tear film production of the intrarectal route (IR) administration of a mixture of dexmedetomidine, ketamine and midazolam in comparison with the intramuscular (IM) one. A group of twenty cats were involved in a randomized and blinded clinical trial. A clinical and ophthalmological examination was conducted on the cats. The IR group received dexmedetomidine 0.003 mg kg−1, ketamine 4 mg kg−1 and midazolam 0.4 mg kg−1; the IM group received dexmedetomidine 0.003 mg kg−1, ketamine 2 mg kg−1 and midazolam 0.2 mg kg−1. A Shirmer tear test I (STT- I) was conducted 1 h before sedation and 2′, 10′, 20′, 30′, 40′, and 80′ post drug administration. The reaction to STT-I administration was also evaluated. The IM group has a lower mean tear production than the IR group for all time points evaluated. Cats in the IM group showed less reaction to STT-I administration. This study may suggest that the effect of sedative agents administered by the IR route has a lower incidence on tear production than the IM one. The use of eye lubricant is recommended in any case.
The Use of Cefiderocol as Salvage Therapy in an Infant Receiving ECMO and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Mercadante Stefania , Tripiciano Costanza , Romani Lorenza , Di Nardo Matteo , Bottari Gabriella , Goffredo Bianca Maria , Simeoli Raffaele , Guzzo Isabella , Lancella Laura , Antachopoulos Charalampos , De Luca Maia
Published: December 2023

Background: Infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens are increasing worldwide, representing a serious global public health issue with high morbidity and mortality rates The treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infections has become a significant challenge due to its ability to develop resistance to many of the currently available antibiotics, especially in intensive care unit (ICU) settings. Among the very few therapeutic lines available against extensively drug-resistant (XDR)-PA and/or with difficult-to-treat resistance (DTR)-PA, cefiderocol is an injectable siderophore cephalosporin not licensed for use in pediatric patients. There are only a few case reports and two ongoing trials describing the administration of this cephalosporin in infants. Case presentation: This report describes the case of a critically ill 8-month-old girl affected by ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) infection complicated by bloodstream infection (BSI) sustained by VIM-producing PA. She was treated with cefiderocol as a salvage therapy during ECMO and CRRT support. Conclusions: In healthcare settings, treating multidrug-resistant, Gram-negative bacteria poses a serious challenge, especially in pediatric patients. Our findings suggest that cefiderocol can be considered as an off-label rescue therapy in selected pediatric cases.
Enhanced Chinese Domain Named Entity Recognition: An Approach with Lexicon Boundary and Frequency Weight Features
Authors: Guo Yan , Feng Shixiang , Liu Fujiang , Lin Weihua , Liu Hongchen , Wang Xianbin , Su Junshun , Gao Qiankai
Published: December 2023

Named entity recognition (NER) plays a crucial role in information extraction but faces challenges in the Chinese context. Especially in Chinese paleontology popular science, NER encounters difficulties, such as low recognition performance for long and nested entities, as well as the complexity of handling mixed Chinese–English texts. This study aims to enhance the performance of NER in this domain. We propose an approach based on the multi-head self-attention mechanism for integrating Chinese lexicon-level features; by integrating Chinese lexicon boundary and domain term frequency weight features, this method enhances the model’s perception of entity boundaries, relative positions, and types. To address training prediction inconsistency, we introduce a novel data augmentation method, generating enhanced data based on the difference set between all and sample entity types. Experiments on four Chinese datasets, namely Resume, Youku, SubDuIE, and our PPOST, show that our approach outperforms baselines, achieving F1-score improvements of 0.03%, 0.16%, 1.27%, and 2.28%, respectively. This research confirms the effectiveness of integrating Chinese lexicon boundary and domain term frequency weight features in NER. Our work provides valuable insights for improving the applicability and performance of NER in other Chinese domain scenarios.
Aloe Vera-Based Concrete Superplasticizer for Enhanced Consolidation with Limestone Calcined Clay Cement
Authors: Nyabuto Andrew Onderi , Abuodha Silvester Ochieng , Mwero John Nyiro , Scheinherrová Lenka , Marangu Joseph Mwiti
Published: December 2023

Self-consolidating concrete (SCC) is renowned for its outstanding workability and ability to seamlessly flow into intricate structures with minimal vibrations, achieved through the incorporation of chemical admixtures. This study pioneers an innovative approach by exploring the use of the cost-effective and readily available plant extract aloe vera mucilage (AVM) as a bio-admixture for SCC. The primary objective is to assess the impact of AVM on SCC formulations, including those comprising ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and blended cement LC3 (clinker 50%, calcined waste clay 30%, limestone 15%, gypsum 5%). AVM is applied at varying dosages at up to 10%. Findings reveal that LC3 exhibits lower consistency, reduced slump values, and extended initial and final setting times compared to OPC. With increasing plasticizer dosage, V-funnel and L-box values decrease. Notably, OPC samples with both plasticizers outperform LC3 in compressive strength at 7, 14, and 28 days. Significantly, a 2.5% AVM dosage demonstrates enhanced compressive strength in both OPC and LC3 samples. In summary, this research positions AVM as an innovative and comparable alternative to commercial plasticizers, contributing to reduced yield stress and increased slump flow in SCC.
Effect of Thermal Aging and Chemical Disinfection on the Microhardness and Flexural Strength of Flexible Resins
Authors: Nascimento Inês , Rodrigues dos Santos Nuno , Anes Vitor , Neves Cristina Bettencourt , Santos Virgínia
Published: December 2023

This article examines the effects of thermal aging and chemical disinfection on the microhardness and flexural strength of flexible resins. The influence of the resin type on the mechanical properties was also investigated. Two flexible resins, Deflex Classic SR and Deflex Supra SF, produced by the injection method, and a thermopolymerizable acrylic resin—ProBase Hot, produced by the flasking method, were subjected to 1000 cycles of thermal aging and three chemical disinfection protocols (n = 8), with daily immersion and during a recommended time, in Corega Whitening, Corega Oxygen Bio-Active, 2.5% sodium hypochlorite, and distilled water (control). Knoop microhardness and three-point flexural strength were evaluated. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon, Mann–Whitney and Kruskal Wallis tests (α = 0.05). The results varied between 14.5 KHN and 80.1 MPa for ProBase Hot and 7.3 KHN for Deflex Classic SR and 52.5 MPa for Deflex Supra SF. Thermal aging reduced the microhardness of the flexible resins, but not their flexural strength. The microhardness of Deflex Classic SR was influenced by chemical disinfection with Corega Bio-active (p < 0.001). The flexural strength of Deflex Supra SF was influenced by chemical disinfection with Corega Whitening (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that chemical disinfection led to changes in the flexible resins and should be used with caution to maintain the mechanical properties of the resins. Flexible resins showed reduced resistance to physical and chemical environmental influences, which can affect their longevity.
Effects of Sprouted Barley with Different Cultivation Stages on Fermentation Characteristics and Degradation Kinetics in the Rumen
Authors: Kim Ji-Yoon , Paradhipta Dimas Hand Vidya , Joo Young-Ho , Seo Myeong-Ji , Baeg Chang-Hyun , Jeong Seung-Min , Kim Sam-Churl
Published: December 2023

The present study investigated the effects of sprouted barley (SB) with different cultivation stages on fermentation characteristics and degradation kinetics in the rumen. The SB was cultivated in three different stages as follows: 0, 4, and 8 days. Dried samples from each cultivation stage of SB were incubated in the rumen buffer at 39 °C for 48 h in quadruplicate with three blanks. Dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent soluble carbohydrate concentrations of SB decreased linearly (p = 0.001) by increasing the cultivation stage, while crude protein, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber, and hemicellulose concentrations increased linearly (p ≤ 0.001). Total volatile fatty acid and butyrate in the rumen decreased linearly (p ≤ 0.020) by increasing the cultivation stage, while pH and propionate increased linearly (p < 0.001). The total degradation fraction of DM and NDF increased quadratically (p ≤ 0.003). The fraction degradation rate of DM and NDF decreased linearly (p ≤ 0.001) by increasing the cultivation stage, while the lag phase increased linearly (p ≤ 0.010). The present study concluded that cultivated SB at 4 days was recommended for animal feed due to the highest nutrient degradation in the rumen without any adverse effects on fermentation characteristics.
Detection and Mitigation of Security Threats Using Virtualized Network Functions in Software-Defined Networks
Authors: Domínguez-Dorado Manuel , Calle-Cancho Jesús , Galeano-Brajones Jesús , Rodríguez-Pérez Francisco-Javier , Cortés-Polo David
Published: December 2023

The evolution of interconnected systems and the evolving demands in service requirements have led to data centers integrating multiple heterogeneous technologies that must coexist. Consequently, the resource management and the security of the infrastructure are becoming more complex than in traditional scenarios. In this context, technologies such as Software-Defined Networking (SDN) or Network Function Virtualization (NFV) are being embraced as mechanisms that facilitate communication management. The integration of both technologies into a single framework, termed Software-Defined NFV (SDNFV) introduces a multitude of tools for managing the security of the data center’s resources. This work delineates the primary characteristics of the evolution of these communication networks and their application to information security and communications within a data center. It presents an illustrative use case demonstrating the application of these next-generation technologies to detect and mitigate a security issue through virtualized network functions deployed in containers.
Innovative Power Smoothing Technique for Enhancing Renewable Integration in Insular Power Systems Using Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Authors: Villa-Ávila Edisson , Arévalo Paul , Ochoa-Correa Danny , Iñiguez-Morán Vinicio , Jurado Francisco
Published: December 2023

The reliance on imported fuels for electricity generation and internal transportation in insular electrical systems has historically posed a significant challenge due to their geographic isolation. The vulnerability of insular ecosystems to pollution has driven the need to transition toward renewable energy sources. Despite their inherent variability, wind and solar energy have gained acceptance. Integrating these renewable technologies into insular grids presents technical challenges that impact the quality of the power supply, particularly with the increasing presence of electric vehicles. Nevertheless, the batteries of these vehicles provide an opportunity to enhance network performance. This article introduces an innovative power smoothing technique that utilizes electric vehicle batteries to optimize self-consumption and reduce power fluctuations. The proposed method is an enhanced version of the ramp-rate energy smoothing method, incorporating adaptability through real-time control of the ramp-rate using fuzzy logic. It employs an aggregated model of lithium-ion batteries with a bidirectional power electronic converter. Experimental validation is carried out in the Micro-Grid Laboratory of the University of Cuenca, Ecuador. Experimental results demonstrate a significant 14% reduction in energy generation variability, resulting in a more stable electrical supply profile. Additionally, there is a marginal improvement in energy delivery, with an additional injection of 0.23 kWh compared to scenarios without the participation of electric vehicle batteries in power smoothing tasks. These findings support the effectiveness of the proposed approach in optimizing the integration of intermittent renewable generators and electric vehicle charging in insular energy systems.
Applying a Method for Augmenting Data Mixed from Two Different Sources Using Deep Generative Neural Networks to Management Science
Authors: Watanuki Shinya , Nomura Yumiko , Kiyota Yuki , Kubo Minami , Fujimoto Kenji , Okada Junko , Edo Katsue
Published: December 2023

Although a multimodal data analysis, comprising physiological and questionnaire survey data, provides better insights into addressing management science concerns, such as challenging the predictions of consumer choice behavior, studies in this field are scarce because of two obstacles: limited sample size and information privacy. This study addresses these challenges by synthesizing multimodal data using deep generative models. We obtained multimodal data by conducting an electroencephalography (EEG) experiment and a questionnaire survey on the prediction of skilled nurses. Subsequently, we validated the effectiveness of the synthesized data compared with real data regarding the similarities between these data and the predictive performance. We confirmed that the synthesized big data were almost equal to the real data using the trained models through sufficient epochs. Conclusively, we demonstrated that synthesizing data using deep generative models might overcome two significant concerns regarding multimodal data utilization, including physiological data. Our approach can contribute to the prevailing combined big data from different modalities, such as physiological and questionnaire survey data, when solving management issues.
An Edge-Based Approach to Partitioning and Overlapping Graph Clustering with User-Specified Density
Authors: Tariq Rohi , Lavangnananda Kittichai , Bouvry Pascal , Mongkolnam Pornchai
Published: December 2023

Graph clustering has received considerable attention recently, and its applications are numerous, ranging from the detection of social communities to the clustering of computer networks. It is classified as an NP-class problem, and several algorithms have been proposed with specific objectives. There also exist various quality metrics for evaluating them. Having clusters with the required density can be beneficial because it permits the effective deployment of resources. This study proposes an approach to partitioning and overlapping clustering of undirected unweighted graphs, allowing users to specify the required density of resultant clusters. This required density is achieved by means of ‘Relative Density’. The proposed algorithm adopts an edge-based approach, commencing with the determination of the edge degree for each edge. The main clustering process is then initiated by an edge with an average degree. A cluster is expanded by considering adjacent edges that can be included while monitoring the relative density of the cluster. Eight empirical networks with diverse characteristics are used to validate the proposed algorithm for both partitioning and overlapping clustering. Their results are assessed using an appropriate metric known as the mean relative density deviation coefficient (MRDDC). This is the first work that attempts to carry out partitioning and overlapping graph clustering, which allows user-specified density.
A Thermal Error Prediction Method of High-Speed Motorized Spindle Based on Pelican Optimization Algorithm and CNN-LSTM
Authors: Gao Ying , Xia Xiaojun , Guo Yinrui
Published: December 2023

Given motorized spindles’ extensive periods of prolonged high-velocity operation, they are prone to temperature changes, which leads to the problem of thermal error, leading to diminished precision in machining operations. To address the thermal error issue in motorized spindles of computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools, this study proposes a pelican optimization algorithm (POA)-optimized convolutional neural network (CNN)–long short-term memory (LSTM) hybrid neural network model (POA-CNN-LSTMNN). Initially, the identification of temperature-sensitive locations in the spindle system is performed using a combination of hierarchical clustering, the K-medoids algorithm, and Pearson’s coefficient calculation. Subsequently, the temperature data from these identified points, along with real-time collected spindle thermal error data, are employed to construct the model. The Pelican optimization algorithm is used to enhance the model parameters to achieve the best performance. Finally, the proposed model is subjected to a comparative analysis with other thermal error prediction models. Drawing from the experimental findings, it is evident that the POA-CNN-LSTMNN model exhibits superior prediction performance.
In Vitro and In Vivo Testing of Stereolithography (SLA)-Manufactured Haemocompatible Photopolymers for Blood Pump
Authors: Major Roman , Gawlikowski Maciej , Surmiak Marcin , Janiczak Karolina , Więcek Justyna , Kurtyka Przemysław , Schwentenwein Martin , Jasek-Gajda Ewa , Kopernik Magdalena , Lackner Juergen M.
Published: December 2023

A major medical problem of state-of-the-art heart ventricular assist devices (LVADs) is device-induced thrombus formation due to inadequate blood-flow dynamics generated by the blood pump rotor. The latter is a highly complex device, with difficulties during conventional manufacturing through milling or casting. Therefore, the additive manufacturing technology relying on stereo-lithography (SLA) capable of producing parts of significantly increased freedom for a blood-flow-compatible, thrombus-risk-free design was chosen as novel and flexible technology for that type of application. However, as yet state-of-the-art SLA is not suitable to produce fully safe blood-contacting devices. Therefore, the present experiment covered chemical, mechanical, rheological, tribological, and complex biocompatibility characterization in accordance with i.a. ISO 10993 standards, including hemolysis and an acute thrombogenicity blood test on fresh animal blood (both as innovative laboratory tests to avoid animal usage in preclinical studies) with a special focus on testing demonstrators of miniaturized blood pump rotors. The conducted tests indicated acceptable biocompatibility of the material and a slight improvement in biocompatibility with surface modification. Additionally, a high biocompatibility of the tested materials was confirmed. Based on studies and simulations, stereolithography (SLA) as an additive manufacturing technology with significantly increased freedom for a blood-flow-compatible, thrombus-risk-free design was chosen as a novel and flexible technology basis in the 4DbloodROT project to enable future manufacturing of rotors with exceptional biomimetic complexity.
Quantum Information with Integrated Photonics
Authors: Piergentili Paolo , Amanti Francesco , Andrini Greta , Armani Fabrizio , Bellani Vittorio , Bonaiuto Vincenzo , Cammarata Simone , Campostrini Matteo , Cornia Samuele , Dao Thu Ha , De Matteis Fabio , Demontis Valeria , Di Giuseppe Giovanni , Ditalia Tchernij Sviatoslav , Donati Simone , Fontana Andrea , Forneris Jacopo , Francini Roberto , Frontini Luca , Gunnella Roberto , Iadanza Simone , Kaplan Ali Emre , Lacava Cosimo , Liberali Valentino , Marzioni Francesco , Nieto Hernández Elena , Pedreschi Elena , Prete Domenic , Prosposito Paolo , Rigato Valentino , Roncolato Carlo , Rossella Francesco , Salamon Andrea , Salvato Matteo , Sargeni Fausto , Shojaii Jafar , Spinella Franco , Stabile Alberto , Toncelli Alessandra , Trucco Gabriella , Vitali Valerio
Published: December 2023

Since the 1980s, researchers have taken giant steps in understanding how to use quantum mechanics for solving real problems—for example, making a computer that works according to the laws of quantum mechanics. In recent decades, researchers have tried to develop a platform for quantum information and computation that can be integrated into digital and telecom technologies without the need of a cryogenic environment. The current status of research in the field of quantum integrated photonics will be reviewed. A review of the most common integrated photonic platforms will be given, together with the main achievements and results in the last decade.
Antibacterial Activity of Endodontic Gutta-Percha—A Systematic Review
Authors: Kowalski Jakub , Rygas Joanna , Homa Karolina , Dobrzyński Wojciech , Wiglusz Rafal J. , Matys Jacek , Dobrzyński Maciej
Published: December 2023

Numerous failures in root canal treatment (RCT), attributed to the persistence of adverse microbiota, prompted researchers to develop a biomaterial with effective antibacterial and antifungal properties. In our systematic review, emphasis was placed on examining the antimicrobial properties of gutta-percha, the most used material for root canal obturation. The review aimed to determine whether gutta-percha demonstrated adequate antibacterial and antifungal features. Additionally, it sought to identify specific substances added to gutta-percha’s composition that could enhance the success rate of root canal obturation. On October 30, 2023, electronic searches were systematically performed in the PubMed, Web of Science (WoS), and Scopus databases using the specified keywords: ((antibacterial) OR (antimicrobial)) AND ((gutta-percha) OR guttapercha)). A thorough evaluation commenced, with an initial pool of 330 studies, from which 174 duplicates were methodically identified and removed. The ultimate dataset for qualitative synthesis consisted of 26 studies. The results of the compared studies did not unequivocally indicate whether the use of gutta-percha alone exhibits antibacterial or antifungal effects. Among the six studies demonstrating results supporting gutta-percha’s antimicrobial activity, five showed activity against Enterococcus faecalis. Conversely, six studies concluded that gutta-percha lacks any discernible antimicrobial features. One study even suggested that gutta-percha might promote the progression of bacterial development. However, eight out of nine studies demonstrated an increase in gutta-percha’s antimicrobial properties after the addition of chlorhexidine. Furthermore, calcium hydroxide and iodoform also improved gutta-percha’s properties, showing promising results. Unfortunately, none of the materials added to gutta-percha displayed comprehensive improvement in its antimicrobial efficacy, including activity against Enterococcus faecalis. The review demonstrated the benefit of enhancing gutta-percha with chlorhexidine, calcium hydroxide, and iodoform. Nevertheless, achieving the inactivation of Enterococcus faecalis posed a challenge.
Numerical Study on the Flow Characteristics of High Attack Angle around the Submarine’s Vertical Plane
Authors: Xiang Guo , Ou Yongpeng , Chen Junjie , Wang Wei , Wu Hao
Published: December 2023

When a submarine encounters an emergency situation, it should take emergency-surfacing actions by moving upward with a large angle of attack in the vertical plane. Previous research has often neglected the effect of vertical plane motion on the lateral force (Fy), rolling moment (Mx), and yawing moment (Mz). To examine the flow characteristics of submarines at high angles of attack on the vertical plane, the SST-DDES method is adopted in conjunction with adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) technology, and the new Omega vortex detection method is employed as the AMR criterion for numerical calculations. The obtained results are then appropriately verified by conducting water tank experiments, and the effects of different angles of attack and heel angles on Fy, Mx, and Mz are methodically examined. The results reveal that, in the flow around the vertical plane of a submarine, the influence of Fy and Mz cannot be ignored. In addition, when the vertical velocity of the hull is greater than 0.6 m/s, the influence of Mx cannot be overlooked either. When the angle of attack on the vertical plane of the submarine is greater than 25°, the effects of Fy, Mx, and Mz cannot be neglected, and the effect of Mz is particularly prominent, with its amplitude close to or greater than the average value of the pitch moment (My). The obtained results reveal that the presence of the heel angle (θ) intensifies the forces on the hull for Fy, Mx, and Mz, and the forces caused by the vertical velocity at Fy, Mx, and Mz cannot be neglected. These findings can provide a mechanical analysis basis for the analysis of nonlinear motion phenomena during submarine surfacing.
Growth and Metabolism of Clostridioides difficile in Hungate-Style Media
Authors: Lakes Jourdan E. , Ferrell Jessica L. , Flythe Michael D.
Published: December 2023

Clostridioides difficile is a clinically and agriculturally important organism with diverse metabolic capabilities. Commercially available media types to cultivate C. difficile typically include multiple growth substrates and often selective agents. Under these conditions, it is difficult to determine what the bacteria utilized and which products are derived from which substrates. These experiments compared a commercial broth (Reinforced Clostridium Medium/RCM) to simpler, defined, carbonate-based media types influenced by Robert Hungate. Peptides (tryptone peptone), amino acids (casamino acids), and/or glucose were added to evaluate the growth of C. difficile strains 9689, BAA-1870, and 43597, and the metabolism of the type strain 9689. C. difficile grew to the greatest optical density in the rich RCM broth but produced less ammonia than the tryptone-containing media types. C. difficile utilized all glucose in RCM and T+G media in addition to performing amino acid fermentations, though the volatile fatty acids produced were not necessarily consistent across media type. When cultured in CAA-containing media, 9689 performed very little metabolism and did not grow regardless of supplementation with glucose. These data demonstrated that C. difficile could metabolize substrates and grow in defined, anaerobic, and carbonate-buffered media. Hungate-style media appear to be an acceptable choice for reliable culturing of C. difficile.
Choreographing Multiraciality: Mixed-Race Methods in North American Contemporary Dance
Authors: Shaffer Miya
Published: December 2023

Multiracialism, or the concept of “mixed-race”, remains a key racial discourse within twenty-first-century North American societies. Scholarly and mainstream studies of multiracial people often highlight the function of speech in theorizing mixed-race experiences, where interviews or other first-person narratives resist racialized stereotypes and express complex multiracial identities. Yet these studies often overlook the body as a comparable analytical site, ignoring how the body’s mobilization—in dance, choreography, and everyday actions—might further nuance mixed-race subjecthood. My article emphasizes experimental dance and choreography as alternative methods for imagining multiracial subjects, where these body-based approaches reject both stereotypical depictions of multiracial people in mainstream media and “transparent” representations in interviews. Drawing on the concept of “opacity,” which describes unknowable, illegible difference, I propose that experimental dance enables the expression of “opaque” multiracial subjectivities. This article then offers a choreographic analysis of Glenn Potter-Takata’s Yonsei f*ck f*ck, an experimental dance that produces opacities for its performers, who are of mixed Japanese heritage. Through movement scores, stand-up comedy, and a re-created “late-night” talk show, the dance invites audiences to move beyond the desire to recognize, categorize, and “know” the mixed-race Asian American performer.
Broader Terms Curriculum Mapping: Using Natural Language Processing and Visual-Supported Communication to Create Representative Program Planning Experiences
Authors: Duarte Rogério , Lacerda Nobre Ângela , Pimentel Fernando , Jacquinet Marc
Published: December 2023

Accreditation bodies call for curriculum development processes that are open to all stakeholders, reflecting viewpoints of students, industry, university faculty, and society. However, communication difficulties between faculty and non-faculty groups leave an immense collaboration potential unexplored. Using the classification of learning objectives, natural language processing, and data visualization, this paper presents a quantitative method that delivers program plan representations that are universal, self-explanatory, and empowering; promoting stronger links between program courses and curriculum development open to all stakeholders. A simple example shows how the method contributes to representative program planning experiences and a case study is used to confirm the method’s accuracy and utility.
The Heat Budget of the Tropical Pacific Mixed Layer during Two Types of El Niño Based on Reanalysis and Global Climate Model Data
Authors: Osipov Alexander , Gushchina Daria
Published: December 2023

The heat budget of the equatorial Pacific mixed layer during El Niño formation was studied based on reanalysis (GLORYS2V4) and model data for the modern climate. The focus of the study is on the so-called El Niño diversity, i.e., the existence of different types of events that are characterized by different locations and intensities, as well as significantly different teleconnection all around the world. The analysis of the processes that participate in the formation of different El Niño types may serve for a better understanding of the El Niño dynamic and contribute to improving its forecast. Two classifications, based on the location and intensity of the events, were considered: strong/moderate and Eastern Pacific (EP)/Central Pacific (CP). The analysis did not reveal a significant difference in the heat budget of the mixed layer between strong and EP El Niño events, as well as between moderate and CP events. The major difference in the generation mechanism of strong (EP) and moderate (CP) El Niño events consists of the magnitude of heating produced by ocean heat budget components with higher heating rates for strong (EP) events. The evolution of sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) is governed primarily by oceanic advection. The vertical advection (due to the thermocline feedback) is the main contributor to SSTA growth in the eastern Pacific regardless of El Niño’s type. In the Central Pacific, horizontal advection is more important than vertical one, with a stronger impact of meridional processes for both strong and moderate regimes. Furthermore, the evaluation of the CMIP5 model’s skill in the simulation of the processes responsible for the formation of different El Niño types was carried out. The analysis of the heat budget of the mixed layer in the CMIP5 ensemble demonstrated that the most successful models are CCSM4, CESM1-BGC, CMCC-CMS, CNRM-CM5, GFDL-ESM2M, and IPSL-CM5B-LR. They are capable of reproducing the most important contribution of the advection terms in the SSTA tendency, keeping the major role of the thermocline feedback (and vertical advection) in the eastern Pacific, and do not overestimate the contribution of zonal advective feedback. These models are recommended to be used for the analysis of El Niño mechanism modification in the future climate.
Iron Oxide and Hydroxide Speciation in Emissions of Brake Wear Particles from Different Friction Materials Using an X-ray Absorption Fine Structure
Authors: Hagino Hiroyuki , Iwata Ayumi , Okuda Tomoaki
Published: December 2023

Iron (Fe), the main component of non-exhaust particulates, is known to have variable health effects that depend on the chemical species of iron. This study characterized the possible contribution of iron oxides and hydroxides to airborne brake wear particles under realistic vehicle driving and braking conditions with different brake pad friction materials. We found significant differences in wear factors and PM10 and PM2.5 emissions between non-asbestos organic (NAO) and European performance (ECE) brake pads. Iron was the dominant contributor to PM10 and PM2.5 brake wear particles for both NAO and ECE. The iron concentration ratio in the particle mass (PM) was comparable to the disc-to-pads ratio measured by wear mass. The fact that magnetite, which is of interest with respect to health effects, was less abundant in NAO than in ECE suggested that tribo-oxidations occurred in NAO. Metallic iron is generated not only from abrasive wear but also from tribo-chemical reduction with magnetite as the starting material. We found that there were differences in PM emissions between brake friction materials, and that the phase transformations of iron differed between friction materials. These differences were apparent in the distribution of iron oxides and hydroxides. Heat, tribo-oxidation, and tribo-reduction are intricately involved in these reactions.