bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Naoxintong capsule for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases: from bench to bedside
Authors: Zhang Wei-jian , Chen Rui-qi , Tang Xuan , Li Pei-bo , Wang Jian , Wu Hai-ke , Xu Ning , Zou Ming-fei , Luo Sen-rong , Ouyang Zi-qi , Chen Zhi-kai , Liao Xu-xing , Wu Hao
Published: June 2024

Naoxintong Capsule (NXT), a renowned traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation, has been broadly applied in China for more than 30 years. Over decades, accumulating evidences have proven satisfactory efficacy and safety of NXT in treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVD). Studies have been conducted unceasingly, while this growing latest knowledge of NXT has not yet been interpreted properly and summarized comprehensively. Hence, we systematically review the advancements in NXT research, from its chemical constituents, quality control, pharmacokinetics, to its profound pharmacological activities as well as its clinical applications in CCVD. Moreover, we further propose specific challenges for its future perspectives: 1) to precisely clarify bioactivities of single compound in complicated mixtures; 2) to evaluate the pharmacokinetic behaviors of NXT feature components in clinical studies, especially drug-drug interactions in CCVD patients; 3) to explore and validate its multi-target mechanisms by integrating multi-omics technologies; 4) to re-evaluate the safety and efficacy of NXT by carrying out large-scale, multicenter randomized controlled trials. In brief, this review aims to straighten out a paradigm for TCM modernization, which help to contribute NXT as a piece of Chinese Wisdom into the advanced intervention strategy for CCVD therapy.
Why Is It so Hard to Resist Marshmallows?
Authors: Colyer-Patel Karis , Back Sammie Marie , Rebouillon Marc Andre , van Oeveren Roos , Vis Jill Véronique , El Marroun Hanan
Published: June 2024

Have you ever wondered why it is so hard to resist soft, sweet, and melty marshmallows? There are two brain processes that play a role in situations like this: cognitive control and reward. Cognitive control helps us to make choices, and rewards are things we want to have because they make us feel good—like eating a marshmallow! The brain has complex systems to control both these processes. The systems can communicate with each other and with the rest of the body using tiny chemical messengers. When one of the two systems speaks louder than the other, this can cause all kinds of problems! Understanding how cognitive control and reward work, and how we can influence these brain processes, can help us make better choices in the future.
Adoption of precision livestock farming technologies has the potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from beef production
Authors: McNicol Louise C. , Bowen Jenna M. , Ferguson Holly J. , Bell Julian , Dewhurst Richard J. , Duthie Carol-Anne
Published: June 2024

To meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit the increase in global temperature to 1.5°C, significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions will be needed across all sectors. This includes agriculture which accounts for a significant proportion of global GHG emissions. There is therefore a pressing need for the uptake of new technologies on farms to reduce GHG emissions and move towards current policy targets. Recently, precision livestock farming (PLF) technologies have been highlighted as a promising GHG mitigation strategy to indirectly reduce GHG emissions through increasing production efficiencies. Using Scotland as a case study, average data from the Scottish Cattle Tracing System (CTS) was used to create two baseline beef production scenarios (one grazing and one housed system) and emission estimates were calculated using the Agrecalc carbon footprinting tool. The effects of adopting various PLF technologies on whole farm and product emissions were then modelled. Scenarios included adoption of automatic weigh platforms, accelerometer-based sensors for oestrus detection (fertility sensors) and accelerometer-based sensors for early disease detection (health sensors). Model assumptions were based on validated technologies, direct experience from farms and expert opinion. Adoption of all three PLF technologies reduced total emissions (kg CO2e) and product emissions (kg CO2e/kg deadweight) in both the grazing and housed systems. In general, adoption of PLF technologies had a larger impact in the housed system than in the grazing system. For example, while health sensors reduced total emissions by 6.1% in the housed system, their impact was slightly lower in the grazing system at 4.4%. The largest reduction in total emissions was seen following the adoption of an automatic weight platform which reduced the age at slaughter by 3 months in the grazing system (6.8%) and sensors for health monitoring in the housed system (6.1%). Health sensors also resulted in the largest reduction in product emissions for both the housed (12.0%) and grazing systems (10.5%). These findings suggest PLF could be an effective GHG mitigation strategy for beef systems in Scotland. Although this study utilised data from beef farms in Scotland, comparable emission reductions are likely attainable in other European countries with similar farming systems.
Impact of baby spinach as a carrier for the development of sustainable probiotics prior to consumption
Authors: Xie Kangkang , Ling Jiayi , Mishra Awdhesh Kumar , Farooq Muhammad Adil , Ahsan Samreen , Hassan Sadia , El-Sherbeeny Ahmed M. , Abukhadra Mostafa R. , He Shan , Liu Huaxia , Zheng Shengle , Ahmad Nabeel
Published: June 2024

The development of baby spinach as a vehicle to transfer Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (LP299v) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is quite promising and may address the research regarding the absence of suitable whole vegetable carriers in the current probiotic food industry. The objective of this study was to observe the effects of food storage and preparation on Lp299v and LGG viability in baby spinach before consumption. The strains were sequentially introduced into baby spinach by dipping leaves in probiotic suspension to achieve an attachment of approximately 8 log 10 CFU/g spinach. Then, probiotic viability was tested using serial dilutions. Furthermore, data processing and ANOVA during 7-day storage, with or without salad dressing, were performed using Tukey’s test. In the 7-day storage trials, LP299v and LGG viability on baby spinach declined after 7 days with significant differences by 0.19 and 0.39 log10 CFU/g, respectively. In salad dressing trials, LP299v (p value = 0.79 > 0.05) and LGG (p value = 0.58 > 0.05) survivability on baby spinach after the addition of salad dressing fluctuated approximately 8.27 and 8.40 log10 CFU/g with no statistically significant difference, respectively. LP299V and LGG viability on baby spinach in both trials was greater than 8 log10 CFU/g and close to FDA requirements, showing that food storage and preparation do not affect their viability and can be used commercially.
The Efficacy of Organic Amendments on Maize Productivity, Soil Properties and Active Fractions of Soil Carbon in Organic-Matter Deficient Soil
Authors: Abbas Aown , Naveed Muhammad , Shehzad Khan Khuram , Ashraf Muhammad , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Abbas Nazar , Mustafa Adnan , Ali Liaqat
Published: June 2024

The decline in soil productivity due to intensive cultivation, unbalanced fertilization and climate change are key challenges to future food security. There is no significant research conducted on the effect of organic amendments on soil properties and active carbon fractions in organic-matter deficient soils under changing climate. Biochar (BC) is a stabilized organic amendment produced from organic materials and is increasingly recognized as being able to improve soil health and crop productivity. The present study was conducted to determine the efficacy of compost (CM) (0.5%, 1%) (w/w) and animal manure (AM) (0.5%, 1%) (w/w) alone and combined with 3% (w/w) biochar, on soil carbon fractions, soil properties, and crop growth in a low-fertile soil. The results revealed significant increased 46% plant height, 106% and 114% fresh and dry shoot weight respectively, and 1,000-grain weight increased up to 40% when 3% BC with 1% CM was applied, compared to a control. Similarly, substantial increases in 69% soil organic matter, and 70% carbon pool index were observed at 3% BC, and under 3% BC with 1% CM increased 11% microbial biomass carbon compared to the control. Overall, the results suggest that 3% BC addition along with 1% CM and AM (1%) had greater potential to improve the soil carbon pool, microbial biomass, and soil health, all of which will ultimately enhance maize yield when grown in low-fertility soil. The application of BC, CM, and AM are a viable green approach, that not only boosts crop yields and improves soil properties and but also contributes to a circular economy.
Optimizing Automated Brain Extraction for Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: The Role of Intensity Normalization and Bias-Field Correction
Authors: Carbone Patrick , Alba Celina , Bennett Alexis , Kriukova Kseniia , Duncan Dominique
Published: June 2024

Accurate brain extraction is crucial for the validity of MRI analyses, particularly in the context of traumatic brain injury (TBI), where conventional automated methods frequently fall short. This study investigates the interplay between intensity normalization, bias-field correction (also called intensity inhomogeneity correction), and automated brain extraction in MRIs of individuals with TBI. We analyzed 125 T1-weighted Magnetization-Prepared Rapid Gradient-Echo (T1-MPRAGE) and 72 T2-weighted Fluid-Attenuated Inversion Recovery (T2-FLAIR) MRI sequences from a cohort of 143 patients with moderate to severe TBI. Our study combined 14 different intensity processing procedures, each using a configuration of N3 inhomogeneity correction, Z-score normalization, KDE-based normalization, or WhiteStripe intensity normalization, with 10 different configurations of the Brain Extraction Tool (BET) and the Optimized Brain Extraction Tool (optiBET). Our results demonstrate that optiBET with N3 inhomogeneity correction produces the most accurate brain extractions, specifically with one iteration of N3 for T1-MPRAGE and four iterations for T2-FLAIR, and pipelines incorporating N3 inhomogeneity correction significantly improved the accuracy of BET as well. Conversely, intensity normalization demonstrated a complex relationship with brain extraction, with effects varying by the normalization algorithm and BET parameter configuration combination. This study elucidates the interactions between intensity processing and the accuracy of brain extraction. Understanding these relationships is essential to the effective and efficient preprocessing of TBI MRI data, laying the groundwork for the development of robust preprocessing pipelines optimized for multi-site TBI MRI data.
Identifying Cassava Genotypes Resistant to the African Cassava Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius)
Authors: Atim Jackie , Kalyebi Andrew , Bohorquez-Chaux Adriana , Lopez-Lavalle Luis Augusto Becerra , Omongo Christopher Abu , Colvin John , Maruthi M. N.
Published: June 2024

The whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, is a major pest of cassava in Africa. Developing whitefly-resistant cassava can control both whiteflies and viral diseases. The main aim of this study was to identify cassava genotypes resistant to four B. tabaci populations, sub-Saharan Africa 1—subgroups 1, 2, and 3 (SSA1-SG1, SSA1-SG2, and SSA1-SG3) and sub-Saharan Africa 2 (SSA2) that colonize cassava, as well as understand the mechanisms of resistance. Utilizing the antixenosis and antibiosis techniques in the choice and no-choice tests, respectively, to screen for whitefly resistance, we tested 46 cassava genotypes. Of these, 11 (Njule Red, Nase 3, Nase 1, Kibandameno, Sagonja, Aladu, Kiroba, Magana, 72-TME-14, Sauti, and PER 415) exhibited antixenosis, as they were least preferred for oviposition by all four whiteflies population in choice tests. Ten genotypes exhibited antibiosis (nymph mortality) against SSA1-SG1 and SSA1-SG3 in no-choice tests, and these were, Pwani, Nase 14, Kalawe, Eyope, NGA11, CoI2246, Mkumbozi, KBH2002/0066, Yizaso, and PER 608. Eight genotypes—Tongolo, Mbundumali, Colicanana, Orera, Ofumbachai, Nam 130, Tajirika, and MECU72—exhibited both antixenosis and antibiosis mechanisms against SSA1-SG1 and SSA1-SG3. And these can be considered the best sources of resistance for the potential development of whitefly-resistant cassava varieties in African countries.
Impact of Soil Organic Bioregeneration Amendments on Maize Biomass and Soil Physical Quality
Authors: Głąb Tomasz , Gondek Krzysztof , Mierzwa-Hersztek Monika
Published: June 2024

Combining inorganic and organic soil amendments with mineral fertilizers is promising for soil quality enhancement in modern agronomy systems. In this research, four main organic components were used in fertilizer formulations: coconut coir, biochar, lignite, and leonardite (enriched with microelements, tryptophan, and bacterial metabolic products). The treatments were assigned to the completely randomized design with a control object, without any soil amendments, and with only mineral fertilization. Aboveground biomass and root characteristics of maize (root length density, mean root diameter, root surface area density, specific root length, root volume density, and root dry matter) and water retention and characteristics of soil pores were determined. Compared to the control, all fertilizer formulations applied deteriorated the water retention properties of the soil. The highest plant available water content value was obtained for the control without any fertilizers. The addition of organic fertilizer formulations consisting of coconut coir, biochar, lignite, leonardite, microelements, tryptophan, and metabolic products of Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus subtilis did not play a significant role in improving soil physical characteristics. The lowest productivity was characterized for maize without any fertilizers and amendments. All soil organic amendments resulted in lower yields than the one with only mineral fertilization. The highest root dry matter was obtained when lignite and leonardite were used as main components. Organic amendments can be recommended for soil bioregeneration, but their main effect on maize productivity is attributed to the mineral component.
Short-Term Effects of Poultry Litter and Cattle Manure on Soil’s Chemical Properties and Bacterial Community
Authors: Sant’Anna Gustavo Souza Lima , de Carvalho Lucas Amoroso Lopes , da Silva Maura Santos Reis de Andrade , Gonçalves João Vitor da Silva , Pinheiro Daniel Guariz , Zonta Everaldo , Coelho Irene da Silva
Published: June 2024

The expansion of animal husbandry for food production has necessitated effective management of livestock waste, including cattle manure and poultry litter. Using these byproducts as organic fertilizers in agriculture represents a sustainable approach to their disposal. While these residues offer known benefits for soil health and crop productivity, further studies are needed to explore the effect of different manure microbiota on soil composition. The objective of this study was to address this gap and contribute to the advancement of this area. A randomized block design experiment was set up in the field with three replications per treatment, including the application of cattle manure, poultry litter, and a control treatment without fertilizer. After a 60 day period, the chemical characteristics and bacterial population composition of the soil were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Organic carbon, phosphorus (P), aluminum (Al), and the pH level played pivotal roles in changing the structure of the soil’s bacterial community. Notably, the incorporation of poultry litter induced more pronounced changes in both the chemical properties and bacterial community composition compared with cattle manure. Bacterial groups were enriched in the soils treated with poultry litter, which may indicate enhanced soil fertility. This association may stem from both the chemical alterations resulting from poultry litter application and the direct transfer of microorganisms from this organic fertilizer to the soil.
Genomic Identification of Callose Synthase (CalS) Gene Family in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and Comparative In Silico Expression Analysis under Aphid (Melanaphis sacchari) Infestation
Authors: Zou Kunliang , Liu Yang , Wang Tonghan , Guan Minghui , Li Xiaofei , Li Jieqin , Yu Haibing , Wu Degong , Du Junli
Published: June 2024

Callose is widely present in higher plants and plays a significant role in plant growth, development, and response to various stresses. Although numerous studies have highlighted the importance of the callose synthase (CalS) genes, their role in the resistance of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) to aphids (Melanaphis sacchari) remains limitedly understood. This study identified 11 sorghum callose synthase genes (SbCalS), unevenly distributed across four chromosomes of sorghum. All SbCalS proteins contain glucan synthase and Fks1 domains, with segmental duplication playing a major role in gene diversification. Cis-element prediction revealed the presence of numerous stress-responsive elements, indicating that this gene family is primarily involved in stress resistance. Using published RNA-seq data, we discovered the differential expression of the SbCalS5 gene between resistant and susceptible sorghum varieties. Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis confirmed the relative expression levels of all SbCalS members under aphid stress. To further verify the role of callose in sorghum, we measured the callose content in both resistant and susceptible sorghum varieties. The results indicated that callose plays a critical role in aphid resistance in sorghum, particularly the SbCalS5 gene. This study provides a reference for further investigation into the role of callose synthase genes in sorghum aphid resistance.
A Review of the Research Status and Prospects of Regional Crop Yield Simulations
Authors: Zhao Rongkun , Ma Yujing , Wu Shangrong
Published: June 2024

To better promote the research and development of regional crop yield simulations, we review related research on regional crop yield simulations over the past ten years, summarize the research progress on regional crop yield simulations at home and abroad from the three aspects of crop growth models, remote sensing technology, and data assimilation technology, and propose three future development directions for regional crop yield simulations: (1) Based on the agronomic mechanism of crop yield estimation, it is necessary to fully consider crop growth characteristics and yield formation mechanisms. (2) With respect to the remote sensing mechanism of crop yield estimation, we can consider combining radar stereo lateral view measurement technology to determine crop characteristics and remote sensing information. (3) From the perspective of combining agronomy and remote sensing, the crop yield spatiotemporal simulation assimilation algorithm should be optimized, and the yield simulation unit should be extended. It is expected that these considerations can provide new ideas for regional crop yield simulations with high accuracy, a large scale, and full coverage.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bone and Dental Lesions in Neotropical Deer
Authors: Silva Tamires Ataides , Martins Andressa da Silva , Alves Lisandra Rodrigues , Pereira Luana Wenceslau Bittencourt , Saraiva Júlia Rebecca , Duarte José Maurício Barbanti , Zanetti Eveline dos Santos , Schweitzer Christiane Marie , Dutra Iveraldo Santos , Borsanelli Ana Carolina
Published: June 2024

Bone and dental lesions have been documented in various deer species globally, affecting the efficiency of ingestion and digestion, consequently influencing their general health and leading to a decline in survival and reproductive performance. The present study aimed to characterize bone and dental lesions in the dry skulls of individual deer, estimate the prevalence of these lesions, and assess potential risk factors associated with the development of bone and dental alterations. This study assessed bone and dental lesions in 180 dry skulls of eleven neotropical deer species, originating from both captivity and wildlife conditions, through direct visual inspection. A high prevalence of bone and dental lesions was observed in all analyzed species. Dental calculus was the most common alteration (96.7%), followed by dental wear (71.1%). Animal age positively correlated with most bone and dental alterations, indicating that older animals showed more lesions. Additionally, the prevalence of these alterations was similar between sexes. Moreover, all lesions were more common in captive-bred animals, likely attributed to their older age and a less diverse diet. Blastocerus dichotomus and Mazama americana were most affected by bone resorption and dental trauma and had the highest dental calculus prevalence, along with Subulo gouazoubira and Passalites nemorivagus. All eleven species evaluated in the present study were susceptible to the occurrence of bone and dental lesions. Therefore, monitoring oral health and diet in captivity are fundamental practices for the conservation of these species.
Reversible Sterilization of Channel Catfish via Overexpression of Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase Gene
Authors: Ye Zhi , Elaswad Ahmed , Su Baofeng , Alsaqufi Ahmed , Shang Mei , Bugg William S. , Qin Guyu , Drescher David , Li Hanbo , Qin Zhenkui , Odin Ramjie , Makhubu Nonkonzo , Abass Nermeen , Dong Sheng , Dunham Rex
Published: June 2024

The confinement of transgenic fish is essential to prevent their escape and reproduction in natural ecosystems. Reversible transgenic sterilization is a promising approach to control the reproduction of transgenic fish. Therefore, the present study was conducted to develop a reversibly sterile channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) via the transgenic overexpression of the goldfish (Carassius auratus) glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) gene driven by the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) β-actin promoter to disrupt normal gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) regulation. Three generations of GAD-transgenic fish were produced. All studied generations showed repressed reproductive performance; however, this was not always statistically significant. In F1, 5.4% of the transgenic fish showed a sexual maturity score ≥ 4 (maximum = 5) at five years of age, which was lower (p = 0.07) than that of the control group (16.8%). In the spawning experiments conducted on F1 transgenic fish at six and nine years of age, 45.5% and 20.0% of fish spawned naturally, representing lower values (p = 0.09 and 0.12, respectively) than the percentages in the sibling control fish of the same age (83.3% and 66.7%, respectively). Four of six pairs of the putative infertile six-year-old fish spawned successfully after luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analog (LHRHa) therapy. Similar outcomes were noted in the three-year-old F2 fish, with a lower spawning percentage in transgenic fish (20.0%) than in the control (66.7%). In one-year-old F2-generation transgenic fish, the observed mean serum gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) levels were 9.23 ± 2.49 and 8.14 ± 2.21 ng/mL for the females and males, respectively. In the control fish, the mean levels of GnRH were 11.04 ± 4.06 and 9.03 ± 2.36 ng/mL for the females and males, respectively, which did not differ significantly from the control (p = 0.15 and 0.27 for females and males, respectively). There was no significant difference in the estradiol levels of the female transgenic and non-transgenic fish in the one- and four-year-old F2-generation fish. The four-year-old F2-generation male transgenic fish exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) lower levels of GnRH and testosterone than the control fish. In conclusion, while overexpressing GAD repressed the reproductive abilities of channel catfish, it did not completely sterilize transgenic fish. The sterilization rate might be improved through selection in future generations.
Surgical Site Infiltration with Comfort-in Device and Traditional Syringe in Dogs Undergoing Regional Mastectomy: Evaluation of Intra- and Postoperative Pain and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Costa Giovanna Lucrezia , Bruno Fabio , Leonardi Fabio , Licata Patrizia , Macrì Francesco , Fernández Parra Rocío , Bruschetta Giuseppe , Nava Vincenzo , Pugliese Michela , Spadola Filippo
Published: June 2024

The surgical site infiltration of a local anesthetic is defined as the direct injection of a drug. This study aimed to compare the effects of surgical site infiltration with 4 mg kg−1 lidocaine using a Comfort-in device and traditional syringe on oxidative status and intra- and postoperative pain in dogs undergoing regional mastectomy. Sixty adult female dogs divided into C (Comfort-in device), S (traditional syringe), and CTR (control) groups received 2 µg kg−1 dexmedetomidine and 4 mg kg−1 tramadol IM, 5 mg kg−1 tiletamine/zolazepam IV, and isoflurane. The physiological and anesthesiological parameters were measured. The assessment of intra- and postoperative responses to the surgical stimulus was performed using a cumulative pain scale (CPS score of 0–4) and the Colorado Pain Scale (CSU-CAPS score of 0–4). The hematological and biochemical parameters and inflammatory oxidative status were measured. The CPS scores showed no significant differences between the C and S groups (p = 0.236), while the comparison between the CTR, C, and S groups, respectively, showed a significant difference (p < 0.001). The postoperative analgesia scores were significantly lower in the C group compared to those of the S and CTR groups (p < 0.001). In the C group, no subject received rescue analgesia during the intra- and postoperative periods. The level of oxidative inflammatory stress was lower in group C than those in S and CTR groups, and no side effects were observed in all the groups.
The Effects of Enrichment on Zoo-Housed Scarlet Ibis Behavior
Authors: Rachinas-Lopes Patrícia , Rocha Inês C. , Dias Tiago , Tavares Maria , Neto Ricardo , Flanagan Carla , Neves João
Published: June 2024

Good zoo animal welfare is commonly promoted with environmental enrichment; however, some species are less likely to be offered enrichment than others. This study tested the effect of enrichment on a group of scarlet ibises from Zoomarine Algarve, Portugal. The study consisted of a first baseline condition, followed by four types of enrichment displays with individual presentations, a post-enrichment condition, and a post-enrichment with all enrichment types presented simultaneously. The enrichment types chosen were physical, with a tidal simulation in the lakes of the enclosure; nutritional, presenting mussels in a plastic mesh tube; sensory, by playing scarlet ibises calls; and tactile, with brushes through the habitat. The data collection was performed for 21 days between January and March 2021, 3 times a day, using scan sampling and instantaneous time sampling every 2 min. The comparison between conditions revealed that most behaviors showed similarity between the baseline and post-enrichment conditions, suggesting that after removing the enrichment, the behaviors returned to their initial baseline. It was also found that each enrichment influenced different types of behaviors and these behaviors also changed depending on the time of day. Exploratory behavior was only associated with the presence of enrichment, and vocalizations were only heard after the sensory enrichment was performed. This study demonstrates that the use of physical and tactile enrichments increased activity and decreased stationary behaviors in this group of ibises and may be used to improve their lives in zoological contexts if included in the housing and husbandry protocols.
Behavior, Intake, Digestion and Milk Yield of Early Lactation Holstein Dairy Cows with Two Levels of Environmental Exposure and Feeding Strategy
Authors: Méndez Maria Noel , Swanepoel Nadia , Robinson Peter H. , Pons Victoria , Jasinsky Alejandra , Adrien Maria de Lourdes , Chilibroste Pablo
Published: June 2024

Eighty-four autumn (ACS, n = 45)- and spring (SCS, n = 39)-calved multiparous early lactation Holstein cows were assigned to groups of either: (a) grazing + mixed ration (MR) during partial confinement in outdoor soil-bedded pens with shade (OD-GRZ); (b) grazing + MR during partial confinement in a compost-bedded pack barn with cooling (CB-GRZ); or (c) total confinement fed a totally mixed ration (CB-TMR) in a compost-bedded pack barn. Data were analyzed using the SAS MIXED procedure with significance at p ≤ 0.05. In both seasons, despite behavioral differences (p < 0.05) between the OD-GRZ and CB-GRZ groups (i.e., standing, first grazing meal length, bite rate), the milk and component yields, DM intake, microbial CP output (MCP) and NE efficiency were unaffected by the housing conditions, possibly due to mild weather conditions. The milk yield was substantially higher in the CB-TMR group versus the OD-TMR and CB-TMR groups (p < 0.01) in both ACS (~35%) and SCS (~20%) despite there being no intake differences, without any impact on milk component levels. In ACS, this was associated with a higher MCP, likely due to the higher nutritional value of TMR compared to pasture, which was not the case in SCS. In conclusion, the OD-GRZ group achieved the same milk production as the CB-GRZ group through behavior adaptation, under mild weather conditions, in both calving seasons. The CB-TMR group outperformed the grazing systems in both calving seasons, regardless of the MCP.
Unraveling the Microbial Symphony: Impact of Antibiotics and Probiotics on Infant Gut Ecology and Antibiotic Resistance in the First Six Months of Life
Authors: Qi Qi , Wang Liang , Zhu Yingze , Li Shaoru , Gebremedhin Mitslal Abrha , Wang Baozhu , Zhu Zhonghai , Zeng Lingxia
Published: June 2024

We aimed to examine the effects of antibiotic and probiotic usage on the gut microbiota structure and the presence of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) in infants during the first six months of life. Questionnaires and fecal samples were collected within three days of birth, two months, and six months to assess antibiotic and probiotic exposure. Gut microbiotas were sequenced via 16S rRNA, and ARGs were conducted by qPCR, including beta-lactam (mecA, blaTEM), tetracycline (tetM), fluoroquinolone (qnrS), aminoglycoside (aac(6′)-Ib), and macrolide (ermB). Infants were categorized by antibiotic and probiotic usage and stratified by delivery mode, microbial composition, and ARG abundances were compared, and potential correlations were explored. A total of 189 fecal samples were analyzed in this study. The gut microbiota diversity (Chao1 index) was significantly lower in the “only probiotics” (PRO) group compared to the “neither antibiotics nor probiotics” (CON) group at six months for the CS stratification (p = 0.029). Compositionally, the abundance of core genus Bifidobacterium_pseudocatenulatum was less abundant for the antibiotic during delivery (IAP) group than that in the CON group within the first three days (p = 0.009), while core genus Enterococcus_faecium was more abundant in the PRO than that in the CON group (p = 0.021) at two months. ARGs were highly detected, with Enterococcus hosting tetM and Escherichia associated with blaTEM within three days of birth, though no correlation was found between Bifidobacterium and ARGs. These findings emphasized the critical importance of carefully managing antibiotic and probiotic exposures in early life, with implications for promoting lifelong health through preserving a healthy infant gut ecosystem.
An Experimental Study on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Granite after High-Temperature Treatment Considering Anisotropy
Authors: Qin Yan , Wu Linqing , Wu Qiong , Xu Nengxiong , Cai Guanjun , Guo Yuxi , Zhou Wenjing
Published: June 2024

The deep burial disposal of nuclear waste and dry hot rock mining relates to the effects of high temperatures on the physical and mechanical properties of granite. Previous studies have shown that due to the anisotropy of mineral arrangements during granite formation, the physical and mechanical properties of granite vary greatly with different temperatures. We conducted wave velocity tests, optical mirror tests, and uniaxial and conventional triaxial compression tests on granite in three orthogonal directions before and after high-temperature treatment. The main innovative conclusions are as follows: (1) High temperatures can cause the density of thermal cracks in the cross-section of granite, which varies with different sampling directions. Temperatures below 400 °C increase the anisotropy of granite, and there are obvious advantages in the development direction. (2) Under the same temperature conditions, granite samples taken parallel to the dominant direction of cracks exhibit the best mechanical properties. (3) In uniaxial compression tests, granite samples after high-temperature treatment are mostly subjected to tensile splitting failure. When the heating temperature is higher than 400 °C, a large number of transgranular cracks are generated during the thermal damage of granite at this temperature stage. Rock samples taken perpendicular to the dominant direction of the crack can generate radial cracks near the main failure surface, while rock samples taken parallel to the dominant direction of the crack can generate more axial cracks.
Course of Cumulative Cost Curve (CCCC) as a Method of CAPEX Prediction in Selected Construction Projects
Authors: Szóstak Mariusz , Stachoń Tomasz , Konior Jarosław
Published: June 2024

Forecasting the actual cost of the implementation of a construction project is of great importance in the case of technical management and enables financial resources to be initially maintained in a controlled manner and in a way that is as close as possible to the actual state. Based on the analysis of the developed knowledge base, which contains data from 612 reports of the Bank Investment Supervision regarding 45 construction projects from 2006 to 2023 with a total value of over PLN 1,300,000,000, best-fit curves were determined, and the expected area of the cumulative actual cost of selected construction projects was specified. The obtained polynomial functions and graphs of real areas of cost curves (in the form of nomograms) constitute a reliable graphical representation that enables the application of research results in typologically similar groups/sectors of the construction industry. The elaborated course of the cumulative cost curve (CCCC) as a method of CAPEX prediction in selected construction projects stands for a combined approach of the S-curve, polynomial functions, and the best-fit area of cumulative earned cost. The research used scientific tools that can be practically and easily used by both managers and participants of the investment process.
A Review and Evaluation of the State of Art in Image-Based Solar Energy Forecasting: The Methodology and Technology Used
Authors: Travieso-González Carlos M. , Cabrera-Quintero Fidel , Piñán-Roescher Alejandro , Celada-Bernal Sergio
Published: June 2024

The increasing penetration of solar energy into the grid has led to management difficulties that require high accuracy forecasting systems. New techniques and approaches are emerging worldwide every year to improve the accuracy of solar power forecasting models and reduce uncertainty in predictions. This article aims to evaluate and compare various solar power forecasting methods based on their characteristics and performance using imagery. To achieve this goal, this article presents an updated analysis of diverse research, which is classified in terms of the technologies and methodologies applied. This analysis distinguishes studies that use ground-based sensor measurements, satellite data processing, or all-sky camera images, as well as statistical regression approaches, artificial intelligence, numerical models, image processing, or a combination of these technologies and methods. Key findings include the superior accuracy of hybrid models that integrate multiple data sources and methodologies, and the promising potential of all-sky camera systems for very short-term forecasting due to their ability to capture rapid changes in cloud cover. Additionally, the evaluation of different error metrics highlights the importance of selecting appropriate benchmarks, such as the smart persistence model, to enhance forecast reliability. This review underscores the need for continued innovation and integration of advanced technologies to meet the challenges of solar energy forecasting.
Research on Fault Detection and Automatic Diagnosis Technology of Water Hammer in Centrifugal Pump
Authors: Chen Lei , Li Zhenao , Shi Wenxuan , Li Wenlong
Published: June 2024

Centrifugal pumps are important equipment in industrial production, and their safe and reliable operation is of great significance to water supply and industrial safety. During the use of centrifugal pumps, faults such as bearing damage, blade wear, shaft imbalance, shaft misalignment and water hammer often occur. Among them, although water hammer faults occur at a low frequency, they are difficult to monitor and pose significant risks to valve and pipeline interfaces. This article analyzes the causes, mechanisms and phenomena of water hammer faults in centrifugal pumps, designs a monitoring method to effectively monitor the vibration signal of the centrifugal pumps, extracts vibration characteristics to determine and record water hammer events, designs monitoring and diagnostic models for the edge layer and server side, and establishes an experimental verification testing system. The test results show that, under the conditions of simulating water hammer faults, after high-pass filtering of the collected vibration data, the kurtosis index, pulse index and margin index all exceed twice the threshold, and both sensors emit water hammer alarms. The designed data acquisition method can capture water hammer signals in a timely manner, and the analysis model can automatically identify water hammer faults based on existing fault knowledge and rules. This fully demonstrates the scientific and effective nature of the proposed centrifugal pump fault monitoring method and system, which is of great significance for ensuring the safe operation and improving the design of centrifugal pumps.
Assessment of Fiber Corrosion Influence in the Flexural Performance of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Fernandes Mauro , Neves Rui
Published: June 2024

Fiber corrosion impacts on the mechanical performance of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) have been considered minor. However, this may be true only for ordinary corrosion conditions. For severe corrosion conditions, such as stray currents, the impacts must be investigated. This study addresses the influence of corrosion at different levels, including severe corrosion, on the flexural performance of SFRC. An experimental study focused on a three-point bending test, considering as variables the corrosion level, the fiber content, and the fiber aspect ratio. It was confirmed that corrosion can shift fiber failure from pullout to rupture, and it was found that corrosion can shorten flexural performance by as much as 80%. Therefore, corrosion impacts, in certain conditions, cannot be considered minor; rather, they have to be considered significant.
Applying Design Thinking to Develop AI-Based Multi-Actor Decision-Support Systems: A Case Study on Human Capital Investments
Authors: Marocco Silvia , Talamo Alessandra , Quintiliani Francesca
Published: June 2024

Artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning, has revolutionized organizational decision-making processes by assuming many decision responsibilities traditionally allocated to humans. In this scenario, decision-support systems based on AI have gained considerable relevance, although the attitudes of managers toward intelligent agents are still unbalanced towards human intervention in decision-making. An additional level of complexity arises when the development of these systems occurs within the context of investments in human capital, such as startup funding or organizational development. In this field, decision-making becomes even more critical, since it implies the will, goals, and motivations of every human actor involved: the investors and those seeking investments. termed multi-actor decision-making, this process involves multiple individuals or groups of individuals who, starting from non-coincident objectives, must reach a mutual agreement and converge toward a common goal for the success of the investment. Considering these challenges, this study aims to apply the design thinking technique as a human-centered methodology to support the design of an AI-based multi-actor decision-support system, conceived by Mylia (The Adecco Group), in the field of organizational development. Additionally, the integration of strategic organizational counseling will be introduced to facilitate the modeling of internal DM processes within the provider organization, enabling the seamless flow of internal behaviors from the decision-support system’s conceptualization to its integration in the external market.
The Relationship between the Time Difference of Formation Water Infiltration Rate, Tectonic Movement, and the Formation Pressure Coefficient
Authors: Mao Xiaoping , Li Shuxian , Chen Xiurong , Li Xuehui , Yang Fan , Yang Yuexing , Li Zhen
Published: June 2024

The study of formation pressure holds great significance for both exploration and development. The formation pressure coefficient is a crucial parameter in geology, encompassing various aspects. Numerous models exist to explore its influencing factors, yet they remain highly controversial. Our research has gathered data on formation pressure states and tectonic movement rates from dozens of large sedimentary basins worldwide. We delved into the patterns of formation pressure changes during basin deposition, subsidence, and tectonic uplift, taking into account the permeability of formation water. The findings reveal that during the Neogene and beyond, rapid deposition or tectonic uplift can cause the infiltration of formation water to lag behind tectonic movements, resulting in overpressure. Conversely, if recent tectonic movements are slow, formation water will complete its infiltration process ahead of tectonic changes, bringing the formation pressure to a hydrostatic state. Consequently, we have concluded that abnormal formation pressure primarily depends on the rate of tectonic movements during the Neogene and Quaternary periods. This study also proposes four formation pressure models, paving the way for a comprehensive understanding of formation pressure within a unified theoretical framework.
A Review of Distribution Grid Consumption Strategies Containing Distributed Photovoltaics
Authors: Zhou Shouhang , Ge Lijuan , Zheng Zilong , Wang Mingyang , Xu Zhiwei
Published: June 2024

With the growing energy crisis and environmental problems, distributed photovoltaic (PV), as a clean and renewable form of energy, is receiving more and more attention. However, the large-scale access to distributed PV brings a series of challenges to the distribution network, such as voltage fluctuation, frequency deviation, protection coordination, and other problems. In order to solve these problems, this paper provides a research overview of distribution network consumption strategies containing distributed PV. Firstly, this paper introduces the characteristics of distributed PV and its impact on the distribution grid. Then, the difficulties and challenges of distributed PV consumption are analyzed from the technical and economic levels. On this basis, a comprehensive consumption strategy is proposed, including the following aspects: firstly, it is mentioned to optimize the access method of distributed PV and to reduce the impact on the distribution grid by reasonably choosing the access point and access capacity of distributed PV. Secondly, it summarizes the ways to improve the regulation capacity of distribution networks and improve the consumption capacity of distribution networks for distributed PV through the introduction of energy storage equipment, flexible loads, and other means. Finally, advanced control strategies are summarized to improve the stability and reliability of the distribution network by implementing measures such as power prediction, voltage control, and protection coordination for distributed PV. Overall, this paper synthesizes the research on distribution network consumption strategies containing distributed PV from various aspects, which provides certain theoretical guidance and practical reference for solving distributed PV consumption problems.
Thermal–RGB Imagery and Computer Vision for Water Stress Identification of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)
Authors: Rajwade Yogesh A. , Chandel Narendra S. , Chandel Abhilash K. , Singh Satish Kumar , Dubey Kumkum , Subeesh A. , Chaudhary V. P. , Ramanna Rao K. V. , Manjhi Monika
Published: June 2024

Crop canopy temperature has proven beneficial for qualitative and quantitative assessment of plants’ biotic and abiotic stresses. In this two-year study, water stress identification in okra crops was evaluated using thermal–RGB imaging and AI approaches. Experimental trials were developed for two irrigation types, sprinkler and flood, and four deficit treatment levels (100, 50, 75, and 25% crop evapotranspiration), replicated thrice. A total of 3200 thermal and RGB images acquired from different crop stages were processed using convolutional neural network architecture-based deep learning models (1) ResNet-50 and (2) MobileNetV2. On evaluation, the accuracy of water stress identification was higher with thermal imagery inputs (87.9% and 84.3%) compared to RGB imagery (78.6% and 74.1%) with ResNet-50 and MobileNetV2 models, respectively. In addition, irrigation treatment and levels had significant impact on yield and crop water use efficiency; the maximum yield of 10,666 kg ha−1 and crop water use efficiency of 1.16 kg m−3 was recorded for flood irrigation, while 9876 kg ha−1 and 1.24 kg m−3 were observed for sprinkler irrigation at 100% irrigation level. Developments and observations from this study not only suggest applications of thermal–RGB imagery with AI for water stress quantification but also developing and deploying automated irrigation systems for higher crop water use efficiency.
High-Resolution Modeling of Air Quality in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire) Using a New Urban-Scale Inventory
Authors: Gnamien Sylvain , Liousse Cathy , Keita Sekou , Kumar Rajesh , Yoboué Véronique
Published: June 2024

In West African cities, the impacts of the air quality on the health of the population is expected to increase significantly in the near future. For the first time to our knowledge, we conducted a high-resolution modeling study over Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire) using the WRF-Chem model and the simplified GOCART model to simulate carbonaceous aerosols BC and OC, sulfate, dust, sea salt, PM2.5, and PM10. The simulations were carried out during January and February 2019, a period over which there are databases of observations available. The DACCIWA inventory provided anthropogenic emissions at the regional scale, whereas a new emission inventory has been developed for the city of Abidjan. In 2019, the emissions were 4986.8 Gg for BC, 14,731.4 Gg for OC, and 7751.6 Gg for SO2. Domestic fires were the primary OC source (7719.5 Gg), while road traffic was the largest BC emitter (2198.8 Gg). Our modeling results generally overestimate urban particle concentrations, despite having a better agreement for those based on the inventory of the city of Abidjan. Modeled concentrations of BC are higher in administrative centers due to road traffic, while OC concentrations are significant in densely populated neighborhoods.