bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Important role of precipitation in controlling a more uniform spring phenology in the Qinba Mountains, China
Authors: Li Jianhao , Guan Jingyun , Han Wangqiang , Tian Ruikang , Lu Binbin , Yu Danlin , Zheng Jianghua
Published: February 2023

Under global warming, the gradual pattern of spring phenology along elevation gradients (EG) has significantly changed. However, current knowledge on the phenomenon of a more uniform spring phenology is mainly focused on the effect of temperature and neglected precipitation. This study aimed to determine whether a more uniform spring phenology occurs along EG in the Qinba Mountains (QB) and explore the effect of precipitation on this pattern. We used Savitzky-Golay (S-G) filtering to extract the start of season (SOS) of the forest from the MODIS Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) during 2001-2018 and determined the main drivers of the SOS patterns along EG by partial correlation analyses. The SOS showed a more uniform trend along EG in the QB with a rate of 0.26 ± 0.01 days 100 m-1 per decade during 2001-2018, but there were differences around 2011. A delayed SOS at low elevations was possibly due to the reduced spring precipitation (SP) and spring temperature (ST) between 2001 and 2011. Additionally, an advanced SOS at high elevations may have been caused by the increased SP and reduced winter temperature (WT). These divergent trends contributed to a significant uniform trend of SOS with a rate of 0.85 ± 0.02 days 100 m-1 per decade. Since 2011, significantly higher SP (especially at low elevations) and rising ST advanced the SOS, and the SOS at lower altitudes was more advanced than at higher altitudes, resulting in greater SOS differences along EG (0.54 ± 0.02 days 100 m-1 per decade). The SP determined the direction of the uniform trend in SOS by controlling the SOS patterns at low elevations. A more uniform SOS may have important effects on local ecosystem stability. Our findings could provide a theoretical basis for establishing ecological restoration measures in areas experiencing similar trends.
GoSAMTs are required for pectin methyl-esterification and mucilage release in seed coat epidermal cells
Authors: Parra-Rojas Juan Pablo , Sepúlveda-Orellana Pablo , Sanhueza Dayan , Salinas-Grenet Hernán , Temple Henry , Dupree Paul , Saez-Aguayo Susana , Orellana Ariel
Published: February 2023

Introduction

GoSAMTs play a role in the methylation of polysaccharides synthesized by the Golgi. Pectin homogalacturonan (HG) methyl-esterification is essential for the proper function of this polysaccharide in cell walls. In order to better understand the role of GoSAMTs in HG biosynthesis, we analyzed mucilage methyl-esterification in gosamt mutants.

Methods

To determine the function of GoSAMT1 and GoSAMT2 in HG methyl-esterification we utilized epidermal cells of seed coats, as these structures produce mucilage, which is a pectic matrix. We evaluated differences in seed surface morphology and quantified mucilage release. We measured methanol release, and used antibodies and confocal microscopy to analyze HG methyl-esterification in mucilage.

Results

We observed morphological differences on the seed surface and delayed, uneven mucilage release in gosamt1-1gosamt2-1 double mutants. We also found changes in the distal wall length indicating abnormal cell wall breakage in this double mutant. Using methanol release and immunolabeling, we confirmed that GoSAMT1 and GoSAMT2 are involved in HG methyl-esterification in mucilage. However, we did not find evidence of decreasing HG in the gosamt mutants. Confocal microscopy analyses detected different patterns in the adherent mucilage and a greater number of low-methyl-esterified domains near the seed coat surface, which correlates with a greater number of “egg-box” structures in this region. We also detected a shift in the partitioning between the Rhamnogalacturonan-I soluble and adherent layers of the double mutant, which correlated with increased amounts of arabinose and arabinogalactan-protein in the adherent mucilage.

Discussion

The results show that the HG synthesized in gosamt mutant plants is less methyl esterified, resulting in more egg-box structures, which stiffen the cell walls in epidermal cells and change the rheological properties of the seed surface. The increased amounts of arabinose and arabinogalactan-protein in adherent mucilage, also suggests that compensation mechanisms were triggered in the gosamt mutants.
A novel gene SpCTP3 from the hyperaccumulator Sedum plumbizincicola redistributes cadmium and increases its accumulation in transgenic Populus × canescens
Authors: Li Shaocui , Zhuo Renying , Yu Miao , Lin Xiaoyu , Xu Jing , Qiu Wenmin , Li Haiying , Han Xiaojiao
Published: February 2023

A cadmium (Cd) tolerance protein (SpCTP3) involved in the Sedum plumbizincicola response to Cd stress was identified. However, the mechanism underlying the Cd detoxification and accumulation mediated by SpCTP3 in plants remains unclear. We compared wild-type (WT) and SpCTP3-overexpressing transgenic poplars in terms of Cd accumulation, physiological indices, and the expression profiles of transporter genes following with 100 μmol/L CdCl2. Compared with the WT, significantly more Cd accumulated in the above-ground and below-ground parts of the SpCTP3-overexpressing lines after 100 μmol/L CdCl2 treatment. The Cd flow rate was significantly higher in the transgenic roots than in the WT roots. The overexpression of SpCTP3 resulted in the subcellular redistribution of Cd, with decreased and increased Cd proportions in the cell wall and the soluble fraction, respectively, in the roots and leaves. Additionally, the accumulation of Cd increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content. The activities of three antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase) increased significantly in response to Cd stress. The observed increase in the titratable acid content in the cytoplasm might lead to the enhanced chelation of Cd. The genes encoding several transporters related to Cd2+ transport and detoxification were expressed at higher levels in the transgenic poplars than in the WT plants. Our results suggest that overexpressing SpCTP3 in transgenic poplar plants promotes Cd accumulation, modulates Cd distribution and ROS homeostasis, and decreases Cd toxicity via organic acids. In conclusion, genetically modifying plants to overexpress SpCTP3 may be a viable strategy for improving the phytoremediation of Cd-polluted soil.
Is the myth of left-wing authoritarianism itself a myth?
Authors: Conway III Lucian Gideon , Zubrod Alivia , Chan Linus , McFarland James D. , Van de Vliert Evert
Published: February 2023

Is left-wing authoritarianism (LWA) closer to a myth or a reality? Twelve studies test the empirical existence and theoretical relevance of LWA. Study 1 reveals that both conservative and liberal Americans identify a large number of left-wing authoritarians in their lives. In Study 2, participants explicitly rate items from a recently-developed LWA measure as valid measurements of authoritarianism. Studies 3–11 show that persons who score high on this same LWA scale possess the traits associated with models of authoritarianism: LWA is positively related to threat sensitivity across multiple areas, including general ecological threats (Study 3), COVID disease threat (Study 4), Belief in a Dangerous World (Study 5), and Trump threat (Study 6). Further, high-LWA persons show more support for restrictive political correctness norms (Study 7), rate African-Americans and Jews more negatively (Studies 8–9), and show more cognitive rigidity (Studies 10 and 11). These effects hold when controlling for political ideology and when looking only within liberals, and further are similar in magnitude to comparable effects for right-wing authoritarianism. Study 12 uses the World Values Survey to provide cross-cultural evidence of Left-Wing Authoritarianism around the globe. Taken in total, this large array of triangulating evidence from 12 studies comprised of over 8,000 participants from the U.S. and over 66,000 participants world-wide strongly suggests that left-wing authoritarianism is much closer to a reality than a myth.
Physical activity reduces internet addiction among “post-00” college students: The mediating role of coping styles
Authors: Cheng Meichao , Wang Shun , Wang Ya , Zhang Rong , Qin Likai
Published: February 2023

Objective

To explore the role of coping styles (CS) in mediating the relationship between physical activity (PA) and internet addiction (IA), and to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of IA among Chinese “post-00” college students.

Methods

A total of 410 university students from five universities in Anhui Province were surveyed using the Chinese Internet addiction scale, the Coping Styles Scale for Chinese University Students, and the International Physical Activity Scale Short Form.

Results

(1) Boys are better than girls in PA. However, there was no significant difference between male and female students on CS and IA. (2) PA was positively correlated with CS (r = 0.278, p < 0.01), PA was negatively correlated with IA (r = −0.236, p < 0.01), CS was negatively correlated with IA (r = −0.560, p < 0.01). (3) PA was negatively predicted IA (B = −0.198, p < 0.01), PA was positively predicted CS (B = 0.986, p < 0.01), CS was negatively predicted IA (B = −0.065, p < 0.01). (4) CS plays a partially mediating role between PA and IA, with a mediating effect proportion of 48.33%.

Conclusion

PA can improve IA not only directly for university students, but also indirectly by increasing CS. The intervention for IA of “post-00” college students can start by increasing PA and improving CS.
Well-being and quality of life in people with disabilities practicing sports, athletes with disabilities, and para-athletes: Insights from a critical review of the literature
Authors: Puce Luca , Okwen Patrick Mbah , Yuh Mirabel Nain , Akah Ndum Okwen Gloria , Pambe Miong Rigobert Hanny , Kong Jude Dzevela , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi
Published: February 2023

Global well-being (GWB) is a complex, multi-dimensional, and multi-faceted construct that can be explored from two different, but often overlapping, complementary perspectives: the subjective and the objective ones. The subjective perspective, in turn, is comprised of two dimensions: namely, the hedonic and the eudaimonic standpoints. Within the former dimension, researchers have developed the concept of subjective hedonic well-being (SHWB), whereas, within the latter, they have built the framework of psychological and social well-being (PSWB). Disabled people have poorer well-being due to their pathology and may more frequently suffer from anxiety and depressive disorders than their able-bodied counterparts. Sports participation is an essential way to cope with disability. On the other hand, compared with their able-bodied peers, athletes with disabilities and para-athletes undergo a unique series of stressors. Little is known in terms of hedonic and eudaimonic well-being and quality of life in this specific population. Here, we review the literature, with an emphasis on the current state-of-art and gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed by future research. High-quality, large-scale investigations are needed to have a better understanding of the self-perceived (hedonic) and objective (eudaimonic) well-being and quality of life of disabled people practicing sports, athletes with disabilities, and para-athletes.
Effects of online mindfulness-based interventions on the mental health of university students: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gong Xiao-Gang , Wang Le-Peng , Rong Guang , Zhang Dao-Ning , Zhang A-Yuan , Liu Chao
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Mental health problems among university students are a cause of widespread concern. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) delivered online have considerable potential to help university students manage mental health challenges. However, there is no consensus regarding the efficacy of online MBIs. This meta-analysis aims to determine whether MBIs are feasible and effective for improving university students’ mental health.

Methods

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase and the US National Library of Medicine (Clinical Trial Registry) published through August 31, 2022, were searched. Two reviewers selected the trials, conducted a critical appraisal, and extracted the data. Nine RCTs met our inclusion criteria.

Results

This analysis showed that online MBIs were effective in improving depression (standardised mean difference [SMD] = −0.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.48 to −0.07; P = 0.008), anxiety (SMD = −0.47; 95% CI, −080 to −0.14; P = 0.006), stress (SMD = −0.58; 95% CI, −0.79 to −0.37; P < 0.00001), and mindfulness (SMD = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.17 to 1.25; p = 0.009) in university students. No significant effect was found on wellbeing (SMD = 0.30; 95% CI, −0.00 to 0.60; P = 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings indicated that online MBIs could effectively improve the mental health of university students. Nevertheless, additional rigorously designed RCTs are required.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-9-0099/, identifier INPLASY202290099.
Product presentation in the live-streaming context: The effect of consumer perceived product value and time pressure on consumer’s purchase intention
Authors: Zhang Nan
Published: February 2023

Live streaming is conducive to consumers obtaining rich and accurate product information, by displaying products through real-time video technology. Live streaming provides a new type of product presentation method, such as showing products from different perspectives, interacting with consumers by trying the products out, and answering consumers’ questions in real time. Other than the current research focus on anchors (or influencers) and consumers in live-streaming marketing, this article tried to explore the way of the product presentation and its effect and mechanism on consumers’ purchase intention. Three studies were conducted. Study 1 (N = 198, 38.4% male) used a survey to explore the main effect of product presentation on consumers’ purchase intention and the mediating effect of the perceived product value. Study 2 (N = 60, 48.3% male) was a survey-based behavioral experiment, and it tested the above effects in the scenario of food consumption. Study 3 (N = 118, 44.1% men) tried to deeply discuss the above relationship in the appeal consumption scenario by priming different levels of the product presentation and time pressure. The results found that the product presentation positively affected consumers’ purchase intention. The perceived product value played a mediating role in the relationship between product presentation and purchase intention. In addition, different levels of time pressure in the living room moderated the above mediation effect. When time pressure is high, the positive impact of product presentation on purchase intention is strengthened. This article enriched the theoretical research on product presentation by exploring product presentation in the context of live-streaming marketing. It explained how product presentation could improve consumers’ perceived product value and the boundary effect of time pressure on consumers’ purchase intention. In practice, this research guided brands and anchors on designing product displays to improve consumers’ purchase decisions.
The relationship between oral health status, loneliness, and sleep quality among the migrant elderly following children in Weifang, Shandong Province, China: A comparative analysis on different migration types
Authors: Jiang Xiaoxu , Liu Guangwen , Xu Jing , Li Hexian , Wang Jieru , Pang Mingli , Li Shixue , Xu Lingzhong , Guo Xiaolei , Kong Fanlei
Published: February 2023

Background

The migrant elderly following children (MEFC) are a vulnerable group that emerged during fast urbanization in China. The MEFC faced physical and psychological discomfort upon their arrival in the inflow city, particularly those who came from rural areas.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the relationship between oral health status, loneliness, and sleep quality among the MEFC in China and to clarify the disparities in the above mentioned relationship by migration type.

Methods

In 2021, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Weifang, Shandong Province, using multistage cluster random sampling to collect data from the MEFC aged 60 years and over. In total, 613 respondents [525 rural-to-urban (RTU) and 88 urban-to-urban (UTU)] were included in the final database. The chi-square test, t-test, and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to investigate the relationship between oral health status, loneliness, and sleep quality among the RTU and UTU MEFC.

Results

Total scores [mean ± standard deviation (SD)] for oral health status, loneliness, and sleep quality were 54.95 ± 6.47, 8.58 ± 3.03, and 4.47 ± 3.60, respectively. SEM revealed that, among the RTU and UTU MEFC, oral health status was positively and significantly related to sleep quality; however, the correlation was slightly stronger in the UTU MEFC. In both groups, there was a significant negative correlation between oral health status and loneliness, which was stronger in the UTU MEFC. In the RTU MEFC, a significant negative correlation between loneliness and sleep quality was observed, and in the UTU MEFC, no significant association between loneliness and sleep quality was observed.

Conclusion

The sleep quality among the MEFC in this study was higher compared to previous studies. Oral health status was negatively correlated with loneliness and positively associated with sleep quality, whereas loneliness was negatively correlated with sleep quality. These three associations differed significantly between the UTU and RTU MEFC. The government, society, and families should take measures to improve oral health and reduce loneliness among the MEFC to improve their sleep quality.
Geosocial networking mobile applications use and HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men in Southern China: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Guo Zhihui , Feng Anping , Zhou Yiguo , Gao Yanxiao , Sun Yinghui , Chen Yuanyi , Zhou Xinyi , Zou Huachun
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are increasingly using geosocial networking (GSN) mobile applications (apps) to socialize in the community. Our study aimed to compare sexual behaviors between app-using MSM (app users) and non-app-using MSM (non-app users), and evaluate the association between app use and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Methods

Eligible MSM were recruited from January to August 2017 in three metropolitan cities: Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Wuxi. A self-completed tablet-based questionnaire was collected about socio-demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors and app use. Blood samples were collected to test for HIV and syphilis. Rectal swabs taken by nurses and urine samples taken by participants themselves were collected to test for gonorrhea and chlamydia. Anogenital warts were checked by a clinician. Chi square tests and logistic regression were used to compare the prevalence of STIs and the characteristics between app users and non-app users.

Results

A total of 572 MSM were included in our analysis, 59.9, 25.7, and 23.4% MSM were recruited from Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Wuxi, respectively. The majority of participants were 20–29 years old (61.7%). 89.0% of MSM had ever used at least one GSN app, and 63.8% MSM had anal intercourse (AI) partners found via apps. Among app users, 62.7% spent <30 min on apps per day on average in the past 6 months. Compared with non-app users, app users were more likely to have an education level of college and above [adjusted OR (AOR) 3.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.65–7.03], have regular sex partners (2.40, 1.16–5.19), have two or more casual sex partners (2–5: 2.90, 1.21–6.90; ≥6: 13.91, 3.13–82.90), have condomless anal intercourse (CAI) with casual sex partners in the past 6 months (2.50, 1.28–5.04), do not know their last sex partners' HIV status (2.16, 1.13–4.21), have tested for HIV in the past year (2.09, 1.07–4.09) and be circumcised (4.07, 1.29–18.42). Prevalence of HIV (8.3 vs. 7.9%, P = 0.93), syphilis (6.9 vs. 11.1%, P = 0.34), gonorrhea (5.1 vs. 6.3%, P = 0.90), chlamydia (18.5 vs. 12.7%, P = 0.36), and anogenital warts (4.9 vs. 4.8%, P = 1.00) were similar between app users and non-app users.

Conclusions

GSN app users were more likely to have high-risk sexual behaviors, but the prevalence of HIV and other STIs were similar to non-app users. Longitudinal studies comparing the incidence of HIV/STIs between long-term app users and non-app users may be necessary to clarify the impact of app use on HIV/STIs risk.
Changes in health communication in the age of COVID-19: A study on the dissemination of preprints to the public
Authors: Zeng Li
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Preprints have become an important tool for meeting the challenges of health communication in the context of COVID-19. They allow scientists to disseminate their results more quickly due to the absence of a peer review process. Preprints have been well-received by scientists, however, there have been concerns about the exposure of wider public audiences to preprints due in part to this lack of peer review.

Methods

The aim of this study is to examine the dissemination of preprints on medRxiv and bioRxiv during the COVID-19 pandemic using content analysis and statistical analysis.

Results

Our findings show that preprints have played an unprecedented role in disseminating COVID-19-related science results to the public.

Discussion

While the overall media coverage of preprints is unsatisfactory, digital native news media performed better than legacy media in reporting preprints, which means that we could make the most of digital native media to improve health communication. This study contributes to understanding how science communication has evolved in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and provides some practical recommendations.
Feasibility of cross-calibrating ocean-color sensors in polar orbit using an intermediary geostationary sensor of reference
Authors: Tan Jing , Frouin Robert , Murakami Hiroshi
Published: February 2023

A generic methodology is presented to cross-calibrate satellite ocean-color sensors in polar orbitviaan intermediary geostationary sensor of reference. In this study, AHI onboard Hiwamari-8 is used as the intermediary sensor to cross-calibrate SGLI onboard GCOM-C and MODIS onboard Aqua and Terra (MODIS-A and MODIS-T) after system vicarious calibration (SVC). Numerous coincidences were obtained near the Equator using 3 days of imagery, i.e., 11 May 2018, 22 January 2019, and 25 January 2020. Spectral matching to AHI spectral bands was first performed for a wide range of angular geometry, aerosol conditions, and Case 1 waters using a single band or multiple bands of SGLI, MODIS-A and MODIS-T, yielding root mean square differences of 0.1–0.7% in the blue and green and 0.7%–3.7% in the red depending on the band combination. Limited by the inherent AHI instrument noise and the system vicarious calibration of individual polar-orbiting sensors, cross-calibration was only performed for equivalent AHI bands centered on at 471, 510, and 639 nm. Results show that MODIS-A and MODIS-T are accurately cross-calibrated, with cross-calibration ratios differing by 0.1%–0.8% in magnitude. These differences are within or slightly outside the estimated uncertainties of ±0.6% to ±1.0%. In contrast, SGLI shows larger cross-calibration differences, i.e., 1.4%, 3.4%, and 1.1% with MODIS-A and 1.5%, 4.6%, and 1.5% with MODIS-T, respectively. These differences are above uncertainties of ±0.8–1.0% at 471 and 510 nm and within uncertainties of ±2.3% and ±1.9% at 639 nm. Such differences may introduce significant discrepancies between ocean-color products generated from SGLI and MODIS data, although some compensation may occur because different atmospheric correction schemes are used to process SGLI and MODIS imagery, and SVC is based on the selected scheme. Geostationary sensors with ocean color capability have potential to improve the spectral matching and reduce uncertainties, as long as they provide imagery at sufficient cadence over equatorial regions. The methodology is applicable to polar-orbiting optical sensors in general and can be implemented operationally to ensure consistency of products generated by individual sensors in establishing long-term data records for climate studies.
State-of-the-art review of porous polymer membrane formation characterization—How numerical and experimental approaches dovetail to drive innovation
Authors: Bohr Sven Johann , Wang Fei , Metze Michael , Vukušić Josipa Lisičar , Sapalidis Andreas , Ulbricht Mathias , Nestler Britta , Barbe Stéphan
Published: February 2023

Porous polymer membranes substantially contribute to an acceleration of sustainability transformation based on the energy efficient separation of liquid and gaseous mixtures. This rapid shift toward sustainable industrial processes leads to an increased demand for specifically tailored membranes. In order to predict membrane performance factors like permeability, selectivity and durability, the membrane formation process by film casting and phase inversion needs to be understood further. In recent years, computational models of the membrane formation process have been studied intensely. Their high spatial and temporal resolution allows a detailed quantitative description of phase inversion phenomena. New experimental techniques complement this development, as they provide quantitative data, e.g., on compositional changes of the polymer solution during membrane formation as well as the kinetic progression of the phase separation process. This state-of-the-art review compiles computational and experimental approaches that characterize the phase inversion process. We discuss how this methodological pluralism is necessary for improving the tailoring of membrane parameters, but that it is unlikely to be the way to the ultimate goal of a complete description of the evolution of the membrane structure from the initial demixing to the final solidification. Alternatively, we formulate an approach that includes a database of standardized and harmonized membrane performance data based on previously publicized data, as well as the application of artificial neural networks as a new powerful tool to link membrane production parameters to membrane performance.
Psychological mechanisms and interventions directed at vaccination attitudes
Authors: Ann Sidonie , Baumann Oliver
Published: February 2023

Attitudes about vaccination impact not only the individual but also society. Therefore, understanding the underlying psychological processes of those who disagree with vaccination is critical for creating compassion through understanding and change through promoting autonomy. The current review aimed to fill a gap in the literature, outlining the state of the recent research on vaccination attitudes, specifically on the underlying mechanisms driving anti-vaccination movements and individuals' thoughts and behaviors. In addition, we aimed to evaluate current research on the effectiveness of interventions targeting these mechanisms. Overall, results indicated that those declining vaccines had beliefs related to distrust in the scientific community and pharmaceutical companies and moral preferences for purity and liberty. In addition, our review identified the potential for utilizing motivational interviewing techniques as an intervention. This literature review provides a platform for further research and enhances the current understanding of vaccination attitudes.
What is the heliopause? Importance of magnetic reconnection and measurement requirements
Authors: Lavraud B. , Opher M. , Dialynas K. , Turner D. L. , Eriksson S. , Provornikova E. , Kornbleuth M. Z. , Mostafavi P. , Fedorov A. , Richardson J. D. , Fuselier S. A. , Drake J. , Swisdak M. , Eubanks M. , Chen T. Y. , Kucharek H. , Kollmann P. , Blanc M. , André N. , Génot V. , Wimmer-Schweingruber R. F. , Barabash S. , Brandt P. , McNutt R.
Published: February 2023

We highlight the importance of magnetic reconnection at the heliopause, both as one of the key processes driving the interaction between solar and interstellar media, but also as an element of the definition of the heliopause itself. We highlight the main observations that have fed the current debates on the definition, location and shape of the heliopause. We explain that discriminating between the current interpretations of plasma and magnetic field structures near the heliopause necessitates appropriate measurements which are lacking on Voyager 1 and 2, and describe some of the ensuing requirements for thermal plasma measurements on a future Interstellar Probe. The content of this article was submitted as a white paper contribution to the Decadal Survey for Solar and Space Physics 2024–2033 of the National Academy of Sciences.
Reconstruction of complex knee wounds with a distally based gracilis flap and gastrocnemius myocutaneous flap: A case report
Authors: Kwon Hyeokjae , Lee Seokui , Kim Sunje , Song Seung Han , Oh Sang-Ha , Kim Joo-hak , Kyung Hyunwoo , Yang Ho Jik , Ha Yooseok
Published: February 2023

A gastrocnemius muscle flap is a versatile option for covering the proximal one-third of the lower leg and around the knee. On the other hand, it is of limited use in patients with short gastrocnemius muscle or insufficient volume. The authors present a case in which a knee soft tissue defect occurred in a very thin patient and was reconstructed using a gastrocnemius myocutaneous flap and a distally based gracilis flap as a supplementary flap.
The relationship between spino-pelvic alignment and primary dysmenorrhea
Authors: Wang Juehan , He Xin , Zhu Ce , Ding Hong , Feng Ganjun , Yang Xi , Liu Limin , Song Yueming
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Most women of reproductive age suffered from the primary dysmenorrhea (PD). Up to date, most studies on the etiology of dysmenorrhea focused on endocrine factors while ignored the effect of spino-pelvic bony anatomy on uterus. In this study, we innovatively shed light on the relationship between primary dysmenorrhea and sagittal spino-pelvic alignment.

Materials and Methods

120 patients diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea and a control group of 118 healthy volunteers were enrolled into this study. All subjects received the standing full-length posteroanterior plain radiography to evaluate the sagittal spino-pelvic parameters. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess pain rating of primary dysmenorrhea patients. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Student's t test was performed to measure statistical significance between differences.

Results

There was a significant difference in pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), lumbar lordosis (LL) and thoracic kyphosis (TK) between PD group and Normal group (P<0.05). Furthermore, in PD group, the PI and SS was significant different between mild pain group and moderate pain group (P<0.05) and there was a significant negative correlation between pain rating and SS. From the perspective of sagittal spinal alignment, the majority of PD patients were classified with Roussouly type 2, meanwhile most normal people were classified with Roussouly type 3.

Conclusion

Sagittal spino-pelvic alignment was related to primary dysmenorrhea symptoms. Lower SS and PI angles may contribute to a worsen pain in PD patients.
Redesigning the Wheel for Systematic Travelling Salesmen
Authors: Strutz Tilo
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the systematic and complete usage of k-opt permutations with k=2…6 in application to local optimization of symmetric two-dimensional instances up to 107 points. The proposed method utilizes several techniques for accelerating the processing, such that good tours can be achieved in limited time: candidates selection based on Delaunay triangulation, precomputation of a sparse distance matrix, two-level data structure, and parallel processing based on multithreading. The proposed approach finds good tours (excess of 0.72–8.68% over best-known tour) in a single run within 30 min for instances with more than 105 points and specifically 3.37% for the largest examined tour containing 107 points. The new method proves to be competitive with a state-of-the-art approach based on the Lin–Kernigham–Helsgaun method (LKH) when applied to clustered instances.
A Hybrid Direct Search and Model-Based Derivative-Free Optimization Method with Dynamic Decision Processing and Application in Solid-Tank Design
Authors: Huang Zhongda , Ogilvy Andy , Collins Steve , Hare Warren , Hilts Michelle , Jirasek Andrew
Published: February 2023

A derivative-free optimization (DFO) method is an optimization method that does not make use of derivative information in order to find the optimal solution. It is advantageous for solving real-world problems in which the only information available about the objective function is the output for a specific input. In this paper, we develop the framework for a DFO method called the DQL method. It is designed to be a versatile hybrid method capable of performing direct search, quadratic-model search, and line search all in the same method. We develop and test a series of different strategies within this framework. The benchmark results indicate that each of these strategies has distinct advantages and that there is no clear winner in the overall performance among efficiency and robustness. We develop the Smart DQL method by allowing the method to determine the optimal search strategies in various circumstances. The Smart DQL method is applied to a problem of solid-tank design for 3D radiation dosimetry provided by the UBCO (University of British Columbia—Okanagan) 3D Radiation Dosimetry Research Group. Given the limited evaluation budget, the Smart DQL method produces high-quality solutions.
A Comparison of Different Topic Modeling Methods through a Real Case Study of Italian Customer Care
Authors: Papadia Gabriele , Pacella Massimo , Perrone Massimiliano , Giliberti Vincenzo
Published: February 2023

The paper deals with the analysis of conversation transcriptions between customers and agents in a call center of a customer care service. The objective is to support the analysis of text transcription of human-to-human conversations, to obtain reports on customer problems and complaints, and on the way an agent has solved them. The aim is to provide customer care service with a high level of efficiency and user satisfaction. To this aim, topic modeling is considered since it facilitates insightful analysis from large documents and datasets, such as a summarization of the main topics and topic characteristics. This paper presents a performance comparison of four topic modeling algorithms: (i) Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA); (ii) Non-negative Matrix Factorization (NMF); (iii) Neural-ProdLDA (Neural LDA) and Contextualized Topic Models (CTM). The comparison study is based on a database containing real conversation transcriptions in Italian Natural Language. Experimental results and different topic evaluation metrics are analyzed in this paper to determine the most suitable model for the case study. The gained knowledge can be exploited by practitioners to identify the optimal strategy and to perform and evaluate topic modeling on Italian natural language transcriptions of human-to-human conversations. This work can be an asset for grounding applications of topic modeling and can be inspiring for similar case studies in the domain of customer care quality.
Aerodynamic Design Optimization and Analysis of Ducted Fan Blades in DEP UAVs
Authors: Li Huiling , Liu Kun
Published: February 2023

In order to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels, the concept of distributed electric propulsion (DEP) has been introduced. At present, there are a few studies on the small electric propulsion engines of DEP vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAVs. According to the design requirements of DEP VTOL UAV ducted fans, the aerodynamic design of a ducted fan is carried out in this paper. Firstly, the initial model is established by referring to theoretical derivations. Then, Bezier curves are used to control the mid-arc and thickness distributions of the blade profiles at different blade heights in order to realize the parameterization as design variables. Finally, the objective function that can represent the performance of the rotor is selected, and a multi-objective genetic algorithm is used to optimize the performance. The optimal results are obtained, and the aerodynamic characteristics are analyzed. Compared with the initial model, the total pressure ratio and isentropic efficiency of the optimized model are increased by 5.3% and 7.8%, respectively, reaching 1.20 and 90.37%. Meanwhile, the aerodynamic performance of the optimized model is improved, indicating that the performance of the rotor is significantly enhanced and that the design task is completed.
HCF and LCF Analysis of a Generic Full Admission Turbine Blade
Authors: Riccius Jörg R. , Zametaev Evgeny B.
Published: February 2023

A numerical turbine-blade fatigue-life analysis method is suggested. This method comprises a stationary thermal 3D finite element (FE) analysis of the hot run for the combined high-cycle fatigue (HCF) and creep analysis, and a follow-on (one-way coupled) quasi-stationary structural 3D FE analysis (including six load steps) of a single and two half turbine blades and the related disk and rotor section and a (modified Goodman equation based) post-processing fatigue life analysis for the highest HCF-loaded point of the turbine blade. For the low-cycle fatigue (LCF) analysis, this includes a transient thermal 3D FE analysis of two full loading cycles, a follow-on (one-way coupled) quasi-stationary structural 3D finite element analysis of a single and two half turbine blades and the related disk and rotor section and a (modified-Langer-equation-based) post-processing fatigue life analysis approach for the highest LCF-loaded point of the turbine blade. Finally, this approach is demonstrated by the numerical HCF, LCF and creep analysis of a generic turbine blade of the first rotor row of a full admission hydrogen turbo pump of a 1 MN thrust class gas generator LOX-LH2 liquid rocket engine (LRE). For this numerical example, the LCF loading turned out to be dominant. Creep turned out to be negligible.
Design and Test of Air-Assisted Seed-Guiding Device of Precision Hill-Seeding Centralized Seed-Metering Device for Sesame
Authors: Wang Baoshan , Liao Qingxi , Wang Lei , Shu Caixia , Cao Mei , Du Wenbin
Published: February 2023

Sesame seeds are flat and oval, with poor mobility, easily blocking a seed tube and reducing seeding quality. An air-assisted seed-guiding device was designed for a hill-seeding centralized seed-metering device for sesame. The core of the seed-guiding device is a distribution manifold that could restrict the trajectory of seeds and make seeds move in the same direction as airflow. Six-factor three-level orthogonal tests were carried out using CFD–DEM coupling simulation to study the influence of the structure and operation parameters of the seed-guiding device on airflow field, seed transport, and seeding performance. The simulation results derived optimal parameters: the depth of the circular section of the seed slide was 2.62 mm, the length of the expansion and contraction section was 188 mm and the length of the contraction section was 20 mm, the seed tube diameter was 19 mm, the airflow velocity was 6.3 m/s, and the rotation speed of the roller was 25 r/min. Under the optimal parameters, the positive pressure required for the seed-guiding device was 256.77 Pa, the time of seeds passing through the seed-guiding device was 0.77 ± 0.02 s, and the velocity of seeds when they came out of the seed tubes was 2.24 ± 0.30 m/s. The qualified rate was 88.33% (2 ± 1 seeds/hill), and the miss-seeding rate was 5.00% (0 seeds/hill). Bench test showed that the qualified rate was 86.80%, and the miss-seeding rate was 6.00%. The seeding performance of the bench test was consistent with the simulation results. Field tests showed that the average number of seedlings per hill was 1.32. The seed-guiding device could meet the requirements of precision hill-seeding for sesame. This study provides a reference for design of a seed-guiding device of a centralized seed-metering device for sesame.
Application of Smart Techniques, Internet of Things and Data Mining for Resource Use Efficient and Sustainable Crop Production
Authors: Ali Awais , Hussain Tajamul , Tantashutikun Noramon , Hussain Nurda , Cocetta Giacomo
Published: February 2023

Technological advancements have led to an increased use of the internet of things (IoT) to enhance the resource use efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness of agricultural production systems, particularly under the current scenario of climate change. Increasing world population, climate variations, and propelling demand for the food are the hot discussions these days. Keeping in view the importance of the abovementioned issues, this manuscript summarizes the modern approaches of IoT and smart techniques to aid sustainable crop production. The study also demonstrates the benefits of using modern IoT approaches and smart techniques in the establishment of smart- and resource-use-efficient farming systems. Modern technology not only aids in sustaining productivity under limited resources, but also can help in observing climatic variations, monitoring soil nutrients, water dynamics, supporting data management in farming systems, and assisting in insect, pest, and disease management. Various type of sensors and computer tools can be utilized in data recording and management of cropping systems, which ensure an opportunity for timely decisions. Digital tools and camera-assisted cropping systems can aid producers to monitor their crops remotely. IoT and smart farming techniques can help to simulate and predict the yield production under forecasted climatic conditions, and thus assist in decision making for various crop management practices, including irrigation, fertilizer, insecticide, and weedicide applications. We found that various neural networks and simulation models could aid in yield prediction for better decision support with an average simulation accuracy of up to 92%. Different numerical models and smart irrigation tools help to save energy use by reducing it up to 8%, whereas advanced irrigation helped in reducing the cost by 25.34% as compared to soil-moisture-based irrigation system. Several leaf diseases on various crops can be managed by using image processing techniques using a genetic algorithm with 90% precision accuracy. Establishment of indoor vertical farming systems worldwide, especially in the countries either lacking the supply of sufficient water for the crops or suffering an intense urbanization, is ultimately helping to increase yield as well as enhancing the metabolite profile of the plants. Hence, employing the advanced tools, a modern and smart agricultural farming system could be used to stabilize and enhance crop productivity by improving resource use efficiency of applied resources i.e., irrigation water and fertilizers.
Bulbil Formation on Water Yam (Dioscorea alata L.) Is Promoted by Waterlogged Soil
Authors: Hamaoka Norimitsu , Moriyama Takahito , Taniguchi Takatoshi , Suriyasak Chetphilin , Ishibashi Yushi
Published: February 2023

The formation of bulbils, which are storage organs, is an important agronomic trait and a unique morphological feature in the vegetative reproduction of yam. We found a landrace of water yam (Dioscorea alata L.), which rarely forms bulbils, that produces bulbils during periods of high rainfall. We investigated the physiological mechanism of bulbil formation in response to over-moist soil and relevant factors at the single plant level. Waterlogging (WL) treatment markedly increased the number of bulbils initiated, predominantly toward the upper nodes. This formed-bulbil was an accessory bud developed as a storage organ in leaf axils. Photosynthetic capacity decreased under WL, attributed to stress-induced stomatal closure. WL stress also reduced dry matter partitioning to the belowground organs. During tuber enlargement in WL plants, photosynthetic products accumulated in the aboveground organs and were transported to the bulbils as a result of reduced translocation to belowground organs. We investigated the effect of abscisic acid (ABA) on bulbil formation on the basis of changes in the sink–source balance in response to WL stress. ABA treatment of leaf axils enhanced bulbil formation in unstressed plants, suggesting that increased ABA is one of the factors that initiate bulbils. Our study shows that bulbil initiation occurs as a result of changes in physiological conditions in response to WL stress. This finding may provide fundamental information for the control of bulbil production. This response of bulbil formation, as an environmentally adaptive trait of the tropical water yam, may underlie the survival strategy of vegetatively propagated plants.
Multi-Objective Optimization Water–Nitrogen Coupling Zones of Maize under Mulched Drip Irrigation: A Case Study of West Liaohe Plain, China
Authors: Feng Yayang , Shi Haibin , Jia Yanhui , Li Ruiping , Miao Qingfeng , Jia Qiong
Published: February 2023

The impact of different combinations of water–nitrogen coupling on maize yield and the environment needs investigation. Low, medium, and high levels of irrigation and N application gradients were studied through field experiments to elucidate the suitable water–nitrogen coupling zone for spring maize in the West Liaohe Plain during three hydrological year patterns under drip irrigation with plastic film. The effects of different water–nitrogen couplings on maize yield, water- and nitrogen-use efficiencies (WUE and NUE), and post-harvest soil alkali-hydrolyzable N residues were studied under integrated drip irrigation by varying the application rates of water and fertilizer. A multi-objective optimization of water–nitrogen coupling zones was performed by integrating maize yield, harvest index, WUE, and soil environmental effects. Results show that with an increase in irrigation and N application rate, the residual amount of alkali-hydrolyzable N increased slowly within a certain range. Upon exceeding a certain amount, residual N increased rapidly, and more N entered the soil environment. The NUE of moderate water–nitrogen coupling treatment was high, with lower environmental risk of residual alkali-hydrolyzable N. Moderate irrigation yielded the highest harvest index in the normal hydrological year. Irrigation rate had a higher impact on yield compared to nitrogen application, because of drip irrigation under plastic film. An appropriate irrigation amount results in a higher WUE and the application of N application must be adjusted according to the rainfall in a particular year. This study highlights the need for structuring water–nitrogen coupling zones specifically for different hydrological years.