bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of Electropulsing Treatment Technology for Flow Stress of Metal Material: A Review
Authors: Lu Bobo , Tang Kai , Wu Mingxia , Yang Yi , Yang Gang
Published: March 2024

Residual stress is caused by non–uniform deformation caused by non–uniform force, heat and composition, which is of great significance in engineering applications. It is assumed that the residual stress is always the upper limit of the elastic limit, so the reduction of the flow stress will reduce the residual elastic stress. It is particularly important to control the flow stress in metal materials. Compared with traditional methods, the use of electropulsing treatment (EPT) technology stands out due to its energy–efficient, highly effective, straightforward and pollution–free characteristics. However, there are different opinions about the mechanism of reducing flow stress through EPT due to the conflation of the effects from pulsed currents. Herein, a clear correlation is identified between induced stress levels and the application of pulsed electrical current. It was found that the decrease in flow stress is positively correlated with the current density and the duration of electrical contact and current action time. We first systematically and comprehensively summarize the influence mechanisms of EPT on dislocations, phase, textures and recrystallization. An analysis of Joule heating, electron wind effect, and thermal–induced stress within metal frameworks under the influence of pulsed currents was conducted. And the distribution of electric, thermal and stress fields under EPT are discussed in detail based on a finite element simulation (FES). Finally, some new insights into the issues and challenges of flow stress drops caused by EPT are proposed, which is critically important for advancing related mechanism research and the revision of theories and models.
Pedigree-Based Genetic Diversity in the South African Boerboel Dog Breed
Authors: Mabunda Ripfumelo Success , Nephawe Khathutshelo Agree , Mtileni Bohani , Makgahlela Mahlako Linah
Published: March 2024

The Boerboel dog breed (BBD) is indigenous to South Africa (SA) and plays an important role in safeguarding homes and farms. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) classifies the BBD as a protected species, and it is valued for its intelligence, boldness, and strength, as well as for continually ensuring the safety of its owners. The aim of this study was to investigate genetic diversity within the BBD population using pedigree information. The original BBD data, which contained 87,808 records, were obtained from the Integrated Registration and Genetic Information System (INTERGIS). After editing, the pedigree data included 87,755 records of animals born between 1971 and 2019. Pedigree analyses were performed using PEDIG (Fortran 77 software) to determine the completeness, inbreeding coefficients, and genetic diversity as defined by the genetic contributions of the most important ancestors of the current animals. This study identified 91.2% inbred animals in the BBD population, with an average and maximum inbreeding of 7.5% and 50% of inbred animals, respectively. The estimated inbreeding rate per year was 0.20% with an effective population size of 83.1. The most influential ancestors explained 82.63% and 80.92% of the total genetic variation for males and females in the studied populations, respectively. Only 10 important ancestors explained more than 50% of the entire population’s genetic diversity. The numbers of founders (f) were 348 and 356, and the effective numbers of founders (fe) were 57.4 and 60.1, respectively, for males and females. The numbers of founders were higher than the effective numbers of founders, implying a loss of genetic diversity due to unequal founder contributions. The BBD population was not critically endangered based on the inbreeding rates and effective population size; however, the population experienced a significant loss of genetic variability, unequal genetic contributions by founders, and a genetic bottleneck. Future breeding strategies could benefit from using equal proportions of parent stock and including new genetically distant breeds.
Assessment of the Effective Tissue Concentrations of Injectable Lidocaine and a Lidocaine-Impregnated Latex Band for Castration in Calves
Authors: Ross Joseph A. , Roche Steven M. , Beaugrand Kendall , Schatz Crystal , Hammad Ann , Ralston Brenda J. , Hanson Andrea M. , Allan Nicholas , Olson Merle
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to assess the effective tissue concentrations of the current standard of care for pain mitigation in calves during castration (injectable lidocaine) and to assess the ability of a lidocaine-loaded elastration band (LLB) to deliver effective concentrations into the scrotal tissue over time. This study comprised two different trials: (1) effective concentrations of injectable lidocaine in the scrotal tissue; and (2) the in vivo delivery of effective concentrations of lidocaine from LLBs placed on the calf scrotums. Sensation in the scrotal tissue was assessed by electrocutaneous stimulation. Injectable lidocaine allowed for short-term anesthesia for up to 60 min, highlighting the importance of finding additional strategies to mitigate long-term pain. An elastomeric ligation band impregnated with lidocaine could provide a suitable alternative, as it yielded tissue levels of lidocaine that approached EC50 and exceeded EC95 at 2 and 72 h following application, respectively, and remained above those levels for at least 28 days after application. Further studies are warranted to compare the use of LLBs to injectable local anesthetics.
Successful Control of Mycobacterium avium Subspecies paratuberculosis Infection in a Dairy Herd within a Decade—A Case Study
Authors: Donat Karsten , Einax Esra , Rath Doreen , Klassen Anne
Published: March 2024

This longitudinal case study provides an in-detail report of the process towards the elimination of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) from a closed 450-head commercial dairy herd. In parallel, two diagnostic approaches were applied to all cows in annual intervals during 2012–2022: detection of MAP in individual faecal samples by bacteriological cultivation on solid medium and detection of MAP-specific antibodies by ELISA. For each annual sampling, the kappa coefficients for test agreement and the survival rates of MAP-positive and MAP-negative cows were calculated. Applying a multivariable linear regression model revealed a significantly lower fat-corrected 305-day milk yield for MAP-positive cows. The true prevalence of MAP shedders reduced from 24.2% in 2012 to 0.4% in 2019 and during 2020–2022, no MAP shedder was identified. Test agreement was generally low and bacteriological cultivation showed positive results earlier than the ELISA. In the first years of control, the survival of MAP shedders was longer than in the final stage. In conclusion, the elimination of MAP from a dairy herd might be feasible within a decade. Changes in the test agreement must be considered. Timely removal of MAP shedders, hygienic calf rearing, and colostrum supply are key for successful control.
High-Loading-Dose Colistin with Nebulized Administration for Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Pneumonia in Critically Ill Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Katip Wasan , Rayanakorn Ajaree , Sornsuvit Chuleegone , Wientong Purida , Oberdorfer Peninnah , Taruangsri Puntapong , Nampuan Teerapong
Published: March 2024

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) infections pose a serious threat, with high morbidity and mortality rates. This retrospective cohort study, conducted at Nakornping Hospital between January 2015 and October 2022, aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a high loading dose (LD) of colistin combined with nebulized colistin in critically ill patients with CRAB pneumonia. Of the 261 patients included, 95 received LD colistin, and 166 received LD colistin with nebulized colistin. Multivariate Cox regression analysis, adjusted for baseline covariates using inverse probability weighting, showed no significant difference in 30-day survival between patients who received LD colistin and those who received LD colistin with nebulized colistin (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.80–1.72, p = 0.418). Likewise, there were no significant differences in clinical response (aHR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.66–1.31, p = 0.688), microbiological response (aHR: 1.21, 95% CI: 0.85–1.73, p = 0.279), or nephrotoxicity (aHR: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.79–1.64, p = 0.492) between the two treatment groups. No significant adverse events related to nebulized colistin were reported. These findings suggest that the addition of nebulized colistin may not offer additional benefits in terms of 30-day survival, clinical or microbiological response, or nephrotoxicity in these patients.
Towards Sustainable Agriculture: A Critical Analysis of Agrobiodiversity Assessment Methods and Recommendations for Effective Implementation
Authors: Marcelino Sara , Gaspar Pedro , do Paço Arminda , Lima Tânia , Monteiro Ana , Franco José , Santos Erika , Campos Rebeca , Lopes Carlos
Published: March 2024

Agriculture intensification has driven the loss of biodiversity at a global level. The implementation of strategies to conserve and promote biodiversity in agricultural areas can be favoured by adequate assessment methods that foster the awareness of decision makers about the impact of management practices. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of assessment methods of the overall biodiversity in agricultural systems, focusing on the quantitative methods applied, indicators of biodiversity, and functionalities. It was concluded that compensation effects and difficulties in interpretation are associated with currently common methodologies of composite indicator calculation to assess biodiversity performance. This review allowed for the identification and critical analysis of current methodologies for biodiversity assessments in the agricultural sector, and it highlighted the need for more implementation-oriented approaches. By providing recommendations on what should be considered when formulating biodiversity assessment methods, this study can contribute to the formulation of appropriate assessment frameworks for agricultural management policies and strategies.
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of the Solar Collector with Stainless Steel Scourers Added to the Absorber Surface
Authors: Can Omer Faruk , Celik Nevin , Ozgen Filiz , Kistak Celal , Taskiran Ali
Published: March 2024

In this study, a numerical and experimental analysis of a solar collector with roughness elements in the form of stainless-steel scourers on the absorber surface is presented. According to the location type and number of the stainless steel scourers, the absorber surfaces are referred to as the complex surface (C1), less complex surface (C2), and flat surface (C3). A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis was carried out using ANSYS-CFX-R18.2 commercial software. The results were verified with the experimental study. After the numerical study was confirmation with the experimental study, then the detailed investigation was performed by numerical simulations. The extracted results of the numerical and experimental analysis concerned the air temperature and velocity, and thermal efficiency, which varied with respect to the type of collector. As a result, the C1 type yielded the highest air velocity and air temperature, while the lowest values of air velocity and temperature were recorded for the C3 type, according to both the numerical analysis and experimental tests. This trend was similar for the efficiencies. The efficiency was nearly 80% for collectors with stainless-steel scourers, whilst it was 55% for the flat plate collector. The results showed that the experimental and numerical results agreed well.
Isoline Tracking in Particle-Based Fluids Using Level-Set Learning Representation
Authors: Kim Jun Yeong , Song Chang Geun , Lee Jung , Kim Jong-Hyun , Lee Jong Wan , Kim Sun-Jeong
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we propose a learning model for tracking the isolines of fluid based on the physical properties of particles in particle-based fluid simulations. Our method involves analyzing which weights, closely related to surface tracking among the various physical properties of fluid particles, are significant. These weights are used as input values for the learning algorithm, enabling relatively accurate isoline tracking. In addition, compared to existing learning models such as linear regression, LSTM (long short-term memory), and learning representation (1-layer) models, our method obtained superior surface tracking results without accumulating errors. By using our proposed network structure to track the fluid surface, it learns and predicts values derived from existing fluid simulation algorithms, eliminating the need for computational processes for level-set values and enabling real-time surface tracking. As the scale of the simulation increases, our method significantly reduces the time and resources consumed compared to traditional methods and can track the fluid surface without additional resource consumption. Furthermore, due to our method’s simple network structure, the time consumed in the initial process of loading the model into memory is faster than models such as CNN and LSTM. Our proposed model occupies less than 30 kb of storage space, making it suitable for use in middleware. Lastly, to verify the generality of our method, we conducted tests in a total of five scenes, and in all test scenes, visually natural fluid isolines were represented.
Dynamic and Energy Consumption Characteristics of Sandstone Ring Specimens under Dry and Wet Cycling
Authors: Ping Qi , Wu Shiwei , Li Xiangyang , Xu Yijie , Hu Jing , Sun Shijia
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of sandstone ring specimens with different inner diameters on dynamic compression mechanical characteristics after dry and wet circulation. To carry out our study, we subjected a sandstone ring specimen with a 50 mm outer diameter and a 0~25 mm inner diameter to 10 cycles of dry and wet circulation. Afterward, we recorded the specimen’s basic physical parameters and used a split-Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test device to perform an impact compression test. Following dry and wet circulation, our results showed that the mass loss rate increased and the volume expansion rates and density decreased with the increase in the inner diameter of the sandstone ring sample. Simultaneously, with the increase in the inner diameter of the specimen ring, the dynamic compressive strength of the specimen presented an exponential negative correlation, the dynamic elastic modulus presented a quadratic negative correlation, and the dynamic peak strain presented a quadratic positive correlation. Concurrently, the average particle size of the specimen decreased, and the degree of breakage increased with the increase in the sandstone sample’s inner diameter. Regarding the energy analysis performed in this study, the sandstone ring sample’s energy dissipation increased, and its kinetic performance evidently weakened with the increase in the ring sample’s inner diameter. The results of this study have certain reference values for the construction and maintenance of natural cavity rock and underground hard rock roadways.
ADMM-1DNet: Online Monitoring Method for Outdoor Mechanical Equipment Part Signals Based on Deep Learning and Compressed Sensing
Authors: Hu Jingyi , Guo Junfeng , Rui Zhiyuan , Wang Zhiming
Published: March 2024

To solve the problem that noise seriously affects the online monitoring of parts signals of outdoor machinery, this paper proposes a signal reconstruction method integrating deep neural network and compression sensing, called ADMM-1DNet, and gives a detailed online vibration signal monitoring scheme. The basic approach of the ADMM-1DNet network is to map the update steps of the classical Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM) into the deep network architecture with a fixed number of layers, and each phase corresponds to an iteration in the traditional ADMM. At the same time, what differs from other unfolded networks is that ADMM-1DNet learns a redundant analysis operator, which can reduce the impact of outdoor high noise on reconstruction error by improving the signal sparse level. The implementation scheme includes the field operation of mechanical equipment and the operation of the data center. The empirical network trained by the local data center conducts an online reconstruction of the received outdoor vibration signal data. Experiments are conducted on two open-source bearing datasets, which verify that the proposed method outperforms the baseline method in terms of reconstruction accuracy and feature preservation, and the proposed implementation scheme can be adapted to the needs of different types of vibration signal reconstruction tasks.
Comprehensive Evaluation of NIMBY Phenomenon with Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process and Radar Chart
Authors: Wu Jian , Wang Ziyu , Bai Xiaochun , Duan Nana
Published: March 2024

The risk level of the NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) phenomenon is crucial for the safety and economy of transmission and transformation projects which is rarely studied, especially for site selection and the construction of transmission lines and substations. In order to effectively evaluate the risk level to solve the dilemma caused by the NIMBY phenomenon, an evaluation method for quantifying the level of the NIMBY phenomenon is proposed. In this paper, thirty-one evaluation criteria and a risk model are put forward according to relevant laws and regulations that should be followed in the transmission and transformation project in China, then the scores corresponding to these criteria are obtained by a questionnaire survey. The radar chart method and minimum area method are applied to determine the weights of the element and unit layers. Furthermore, the overall risk level is evaluated by the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. In addition, a transmission and transformation project in Xi’an City, China, is used as an example to verify the correction of the risk model and its evaluation method. The results show that the weaknesses in the transmission and transformation project are analyzed, and suggestions for decreasing the risk level are put forward to minimize losses due to the NIMBY phenomenon.
Digital Technologies for Quality Assurance in the Construction Industry: Current Trend and Future Research Directions towards Industry 4.0
Authors: Ghansah Frank , Edwards David
Published: March 2024

Despite the growing rich and fragmented literature focusing on quality assurance (QA) and Industry 4.0, the implementation of associated individual digital technologies has not been fully evaluated and synthesised to achieve adequate QA in the construction industry; hence, it has received limited focus. This study, thus, aimed to organise, evaluate, and synthesise the current literature on individual digital technology applications in QA in the construction industry and propose future research directions. A literature review approach was adopted for this study along with Deming’s cycle framework to address four research questions: (1) What is the status of the state-of-the-art in the literature? (2) What digital technologies have been applied for QA in the construction industry? (3) Which areas in QA processes have experienced digital technology applications, and what are the applications? (4) What are the limitations of the existing studies and future research directions of digital technologies for QA in the construction industry? The findings showed an increasing trend of research on digital technology for QA in construction since 2017. This cuts across 23 countries with six different research methods published across 18 different publication sources. Four categories of digital technologies were revealed to have been adopted for QA in construction based on the functionality of the technologies: data collection technologies, decision-oriented technologies, collaborative technologies, and transparency and security-related technologies. Evaluation with Deming’s cycle framework revealed that digital technologies have a high level of application at the “do” phase, improving the quality management process during construction towards achieving pre-stated quality requirements. This includes mostly collaborative technologies, consisting of BIM technologies. Limitations of the existing studies were further identified, and this led to five research directions: interoperability of technology development, integrated digital technologies for QA of prefabricated and modular construction, integrated digital technologies for QA of cross-border construction logistics and supply chain, digital innovation for sustainable QA, and moving beyond the technical solution. The study showed a significant contribution to both academia and the industry in the built environment.
Exhibition Space Circulation in Museums from the Perspective of Pedestrian Simulation
Authors: Liu Yuzhe , Chen Libo , Xu Yusu , Yang Jingqiu
Published: March 2024

Contemporary studies largely concentrate on the physical aspects of architecture, yet within the sphere of design, the gap between user experience and the designer’s intention is an undeniable fact. This gap, illustrating the contrast between the spatial perception and the actual physical space, to some degree, mirrors preferences in human spatial behavior. It accentuates the complex relationship between human cognitive functions and spatial layout, underlining the critical role of spatial perception in architectural design and planning. This prompts the question of whether perceptions of internal traffic flow within buildings also suffer from spatial distortions. Focusing on museums, and by examining circulation paths and spatial features, a virtual museum model is devised. The research employs a holistic and reductionist approach (complex systems theory) to forge a link between circulation components and the spatial experience of architecture. Utilizing agent-based modeling tools for simulating pedestrian movements, it investigates how different circulation patterns and spatial relationships influence pedestrian behavior. The study proposes a museum circulation optimization strategy, grounded in quantifying spatial experience through Anylogic software analysis. This strategy is aimed at enhancing the design of internal traffic flows in future museum projects, offering fresh insights into museum design research, and probing into new possibilities for using pedestrian simulation software.
Treatment Strategies for Glioblastoma in the Elderly: What Should We Focus on Compared to Younger Patients
Authors: Gull Hanah Hadice , Von Riegen Antonia Carlotta , Beckmann Greta Theresa , Ketelauri Pikria , Walbrodt Sebastian , Santos Alejandro N. , Oster Christoph , Schmidt Teresa , Glas Martin , Jabbarli Ramazan , Özkan Neriman , Dammann Philipp , Scheffler Björn , Sure Ulrich , Ahmadipour Yahya
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Although the incidence of glioblastoma (GB) has a peak in patients aged 75–84 years, no standard treatment regimen for elderly patients has been established so far. The goal of this study was to analyze the outcome of GB patients ≥ 65 years to detect predictors with relevant impacts on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). (2) Methods: Medical records referred to our institution from 2006 to 2020 were analyzed. Adult GB patients with clinical data, postoperative MRI data, and ≥1 follow-up investigation after surgical resection were included. The complete cohort was divided into a younger (<65) and an elderly group (≥65 years). Multiple factors regarding OS and PFS were scanned using univariate and multivariable regression with p < 0.05. (3) Results: 1004 patients were included with 322 (61.0%) male individuals in the younger and 267 (56.1%) males in the older cohort. The most common tumor localization was frontal in both groups. Gross total resection (GTR) was the most common surgical procedure in both groups, followed by subtotal resection (STR) (145; 27.5%) in the younger group, and biopsy (156; 32.8%) in the elderly group. Multivariate analyses detected that in the younger cohort, MGMT promoter methylation and GTR were predictors for a longer OS, while MGMT methylation, GTR, and hypofractionated radiation were significantly associated with a longer OS in the elderly group. (4) Conclusions: Elderly patients benefit from surgical resection of GB when they show MGMT promoter methylation, undergo GTR, and receive hypofractionated radiation. Furthermore, MGMT methylation seems to be associated with a longer PFS in elderly patients. Further investigations are required to confirm these findings, especially within prospective radiation therapy studies and molecular examinations.
Quality of Life, Sarcopenia and Nutritional Status in Patients with Esophagogastric Tumors before and after Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Schooren Lena , Oberhoff Grace H. , Koch Alexander , Kroh Andreas , Ulmer Tom F. , Vondran Florian , Bednarsch Jan , Neumann Ulf P. , Schmitz Sophia M. , Alizai Patrick H.
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) gains importance as novel treatment options for individuals with esophagogastric tumors to improve long-term survival. Impaired HRQoL has been shown to be a predictor of overall survival. Sarcopenia is a known prognostic factor for postoperative complications. As the regular control of sarcopenia through CT scans might not always be possible and HRQoL and nutritional scores are easier to obtain, this study aimed to assess the relationship between nutritional scores, HRQoL and skeletal muscle mass in patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract. (2) Methods: Eighty patients presenting with tumors of the upper GI tract were included and asked to fill out the standardized HRQoL questionnaire, EORTC’s QLQ-C30. Nutritional status was assessed using the MNA, MUST and NRS 2002 scores. Sarcopenia was determined semi-automatically based on the skeletal muscle index at the L3 vertebrae level in staging CT scans. (3) Results: In chemo-naïve patients, HRQoL summary scores correlated significantly with nutritional scores and SMI. SMI and HRQoL prior to neoadjuvant therapy correlated significantly with SMI after treatment. (4) Conclusions: HRQoL is a helpful tool for assessing patients’ overall constitution. The correlation of HRQoL summary scores and SMI might allow for a rough assessment of skeletal muscle status through HRQoL assessment in chemo-naïve patients.
Correction: Reschke, R.; Olson, D.J. Leveraging STING, Batf3 Dendritic Cells, CXCR3 Ligands, and Other Components Related to Innate Immunity to Induce a “Hot” Tumor Microenvironment That Is Responsive to Immunotherapy. Cancers 2022, 14, 2458
Authors: Reschke Robin , Olson Daniel J.
Published: March 2024

The authors would like to make the following corrections to their published paper [...]
Genetic Insights into the Extremely Dwarf Hibiscus syriacus var. micranthus: Complete Chloroplast Genome Analysis and Development of a Novel dCAPS Marker
Authors: Kwon Soon-Ho , Kwon Hae-Yun , Shin Hanna
Published: March 2024

This study explored the chloroplast (cp) genomes of three Hibiscus syriacus (HS) specimens endemic to Korea possessing unique ornamental and conservation values: the dwarf H. syriacus var. micranthus (HSVM), renowned for its small stature and breeding potential; HS ‘Tamra’, a cultivar from Korea’s southernmost islands, noteworthy for its distinctive beauty; and HS Natural Monument no. 521 (N.M.521), a specimen of significant lifespan and height. Given the scarcity of evolutionary studies on these specimens, we assembled and analyzed their cp genomes. We successfully assembled genomes spanning 160,000 to 160,100 bp and identified intraspecific variants. Among these, a unique ATA 3-mer insertion in the trnL-UAA region was identified in HSVM, highlighting its value as a genetic resource. Leveraging this finding, we developed a novel InDel dCAPS marker, which was validated across 43 cultivars, enhancing our ability to distinguish HSVM and its derivatives from other HS cultivars. Phylogenetic analysis involving 23 Malvaceae species revealed that HSVM forms a clade with woody Hibiscus species, closely associating with N.M.520, which may suggest a shared ancestry or parallel evolutionary paths. This investigation advances our understanding of the genetic diversity in Korean HS and offers robust tools for accurate cultivar identification, aiding conservation and breeding efforts.
Hydrophobic Modification of Bi2O3-Doped Si-Ti Composite Film on a Wood Surface
Authors: Liu Zhigao , Gan Linshuang , Cheng Si , Fu Yunlin , Wei Penglian
Published: March 2024

In order to improve the hydrophobicity of the composite film on the wood surface, the wettability of the wood surface and its morphology, chemical structure, roughness and free energy changes were investigated in this paper after modification treatments with different volume fractions of octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). It can be found that the water contact angle and surface roughness of the hydrophobically modified wood increased with the increase in volume fraction, but the overall effect of OTS hydrophobic modification was better than that of PDMS, and a maximum water contact angle of up to 140.8° could be obtained at a volume fraction of 2% of OTS. In addition, the intensity of the stretching vibration peak of -OH was weakened after the modification, while the intensity of the stretching vibration peak of -CH2- was enhanced, resulting in an increase in hydrophobicity. At the same time, it can be found that the surface free energy of the modified wood specimens was reduced, which shows that OTS and PDMS improve the surface hydrophobicity of the wood by increasing the surface roughness and decreasing the surface free energy together. Finally, the hydrophobically modified Bi2O3-doped silica–titanium composite film still possessed high photocatalytic degradation activity for rhodamine B and gas formaldehyde, and the degradation rate could reach more than 90%.
Microstructure and Properties of Al-Cu-Fe-Ce Quasicrystalline-Reinforced 6061 Aluminum Matrix Composites after Aging
Authors: Wang Juan , He Yanhu , Yang Zhong
Published: March 2024

Al-Cu-Fe-Ce quasicrystalline-reinforced 6061 aluminum matrix composites were prepared through hot press sintering and treated with a solid solution and aging treatments. The influence of the solid solution and aging treatments on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the composites was investigated by XRD, EDS, SEM, and TEM. The results show that using Al-Cu-Fe-Ce quasicrystalline intermediate alloy as the reinforcing phase increases the interfacial areas of the composites and enhances the grain boundary strengthening effect, which is conducive to the improvement of the mechanical properties of the composites. And through the solid solution and aging treatment, the β phase and the Al2CuMg phase belonging to the orthorhombic crystal system, as well as the β″ phase and a small amount of the β′ precipitated phase, were formed in aluminum matrix composites, and these precipitated phases all existed in the composites in a fine and uniform distribution, which ensured the consistency of the mechanical properties of the materials and improved the mechanical properties of the composites. Meanwhile, the deficiency of quasicrystalline particle-reinforced 6061 aluminum matrix composites in age-hardening was solved and the age-hardening capability of the composites was further developed. This method provides a feasible process route for the preparation of high-performance aluminum matrix composites. The application of this process is expected to improve the mechanical properties and durability of this composite and offer a more reliable option for the application of aluminum matrix composites in aerospace, transportation, and other fields.
A Seamless Deep Learning Approach for Apple Detection, Depth Estimation, and Tracking Using YOLO Models Enhanced by Multi-Head Attention Mechanism
Authors: Sekharamantry Praveen Kumar , Melgani Farid , Malacarne Jonni , Ricci Riccardo , de Almeida Silva Rodrigo , Marcato Junior Jose
Published: March 2024

Considering precision agriculture, recent technological developments have sparked the emergence of several new tools that can help to automate the agricultural process. For instance, accurately detecting and counting apples in orchards is essential for maximizing harvests and ensuring effective resource management. However, there are several intrinsic difficulties with traditional techniques for identifying and counting apples in orchards. To identify, recognize, and detect apples, apple target detection algorithms, such as YOLOv7, have shown a great deal of reflection and accuracy. But occlusions, electrical wiring, branches, and overlapping pose severe issues for precisely detecting apples. Thus, to overcome these issues and accurately recognize apples and find the depth of apples from drone-based videos in complicated backdrops, our proposed model combines a multi-head attention system with the YOLOv7 object identification framework. Furthermore, we provide the ByteTrack method for apple counting in real time, which guarantees effective monitoring of apples. To verify the efficacy of our suggested model, a thorough comparison assessment is performed with several current apple detection and counting techniques. The outcomes adequately proved the effectiveness of our strategy, which continuously surpassed competing methods to achieve exceptional accuracies of 0.92, 0.96, and 0.95 with respect to precision, recall, and F1 score, and a low MAPE of 0.027, respectively.
Improving the Quality of Spontaneously Growing HviGH11 Crystals by Increasing the Viscosity Using Polyethylene Glycols
Authors: Nam Ki Hyun
Published: March 2024

Proteins can form crystals spontaneously without crystallization experiments. These crystals can be used to determine three-dimensional structures. However, when X-ray diffraction is poor, crystal optimization is required to obtain a high-resolution crystal structure. Endo-1,4-β-xylanase from the fungus Hypocrea virens (HviGH11) spontaneously formed microcrystals after affinity purification and concentration; however, most HviGH11 microcrystals showed poor diffraction in the synchrotron X-ray and X-ray free-electron laser, so a complete three-dimensional structure could not be obtained. This study presents a method to improve the crystal quality of spontaneously grown HviGH11 microcrystals. The crystallization screening results revealed that temperature, pH, and salt were not crucial factors in increasing the solubility or preventing the spontaneous crystal growth of HviGH11. Conversely, the addition of polyethylene glycols (PEGs) as a precipitant facilitated the growth of larger HviGH11 crystals. The improved large HviGH11 crystal showed a diffraction of up to 1.95 Å when exposed to synchrotron X-rays, providing a complete three-dimensional structural dataset. Based on the nucleation rate equation, it was suggested that PEG increases the viscosity of the protein solution rather than promoting nucleation. This increase in viscosity reduced nucleation and facilitated the growth of larger HviGH11 crystals. These results provide valuable insights for future experiments aimed at increasing the size of spontaneously grown crystals.
What Cluster Headache Patients Would Like Their Relatives to Know: Results from a Qualitative Study
Authors: Saravanamuthu Papitha , Wegener Susanne , Pohl Heiko
Published: March 2024

Many patients with cluster headaches report that their relatives do not understand what they are going through. This qualitative study aimed to collect patients’ recommendations and wishes on how others should respond to those suffering from cluster headaches. We recruited 22 patients with episodic or chronic cluster headaches for this cross-sectional study. They responded to seven questions that assessed the disease’s impact on their relationships with relatives and their wishes for others’ behaviour towards them. Seven recommendations for relatives emerged: (i) withdraw during attacks, (ii) respect post-ictal exhaustion, (iii) do not insist on discussing the disorder, (iv) help the patient to lead a “normal” life, (v) support preserving social contacts, (vi) show being aware of the disease severity, and (vii) expect the disease to take up space in patients’ lives and minds. Two recommendations for the interictal period indicate avoidance, which is considered a negative coping strategy. Conversely, the suggestion to support preserving social contacts might mean confronting the disease, which is likely associated with more favourable outcomes. Still, adhering to all patients’ requests might increase suffering instead of reducing it. Thus, further research is needed to develop strategies suited to improve well-being.
Water Reserves for the Environment: A Strategic and Temporal Analysis (2012–2022) for the Implementation of Environmental Flows in Mexico
Authors: Salinas-Rodríguez Sergio A. , Martínez Pacheco Anuar I.
Published: March 2024

In Mexico, the evaluations of environmental flows are regulated by the Mexican Norm NMX-AA-159-SCFI-2012, and they warrant the establishment of water reserves for the environment. However, the pressure or demand for water use limits the establishment of said reserves because their implementation is generally conditioned to water availability. This research aimed to evaluate the changes through time of the variables that serve as a basis for the implementation strategy by the Mexican government. A geographical information system was built with updated information on water availability, conservation values, and pressures for all basins nationwide. Their desired conservation status was analyzed, and the potential reserves were estimated based on the reference values. The results were examined according to the ranking changes in environmental water reserves enactment feasibility and desired conservation status of Mexican basins, the progress achieved to date, and the potential contribution to the conservation of protected areas and their connectivity if the gaps of reserves were implemented. The outcomes point towards an administrative implementation strategy with positive results despite the growing demand for water use, with a change rate higher than the one for the creation of new protected areas. Currently, basins with low demand and high conservation value have the potential to meet people’s and the environment’s water needs, and contribute to 86% of the goal set by the present administration without affecting water availability. Finally, reserving water in the priority basins would guarantee the legal protection of the flow regime in 48–50% of the hydrographic network (63,760–66,900 km) in a desired conservation status, 43–49% of wetlands of international importance (48,650–49,600 km2) and other protected areas (128,700–136,500 km2) in 85–89% of the global ecoregions represented in Mexico (780,500–852,200 km2).
Assessing Serum Vaspin Dynamics in Dairy Cows during Late Pregnancy and Early Lactation in Relation to Negative Energy Balance
Authors: Naji Hala Abbas , Rhyaf Atiaf Ghanim , ALyasari Noora Khadhim Hadi , Al-Karagoly Hassan
Published: March 2024

The periparturient period, which spans late pregnancy to early lactation in dairy cows, is a crucial phase characterized by complex metabolic and endocrine adjustments necessary for sustained milk production. This research focused on the relationship between serum vaspin, inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, TNF), and markers of negative energy balance (NEB) in 100 primiparous and multiparous Holstein dairy cows. The results demonstrated that one month post-calving, both groups had a significant decrease in serum vaspin levels but increased NEFA levels, indicating possible consequences for lipid metabolism and energy balance. Multiparous cows showed significant elevations in cholesterol, IL-1, and TNF concentrations after calving, indicating increased inflammatory responses. Primiparous cows, on the other hand, responded differently, indicating the role of parity in metabolic adjustments. The study acknowledges limitations such as sample size and its observational nature. Future research should investigate the long-term effects of these metabolic changes on herd health and lactational performance, using advanced technologies to gain a molecular understanding. Despite limitations, this study provides valuable insights into how adipokines, inflammatory markers, and energy balance interact during the periparturient period, offering the potential for improved dairy cow management and productivity while ensuring animal welfare.
Skin Lesions with Loss of Tissue and Cutaneous-Onset Sepsis: The Skin Infection–Sepsis Relationship
Authors: Pătrașcu Adriana-Ionela , Vâță Dan , Temelie-Olinici Doinița , Mocanu Mădălina , Guguluș Dumitrița-Lenuța , Marinescu Mădălina , Stafie Liviu , Tarcău Bogdan-Marian , Creţu Ioana , Popescu Ioana-Adriana , Cimpoeșu Carmen-Diana , Gheucă-Solovăstru Laura
Published: March 2024

Infectious and inflammatory dermatoses featuring skin lesions with loss of tissue expose skin layers to microbial invasions, disrupt the normal skin microbiome, and potentially lead to sepsis. However, literature data on the incidence of cutaneous-onset sepsis are scarce. This retrospective observational study assessed hospital admissions for primary skin lesions without bacterial infections and sepsis during 2020–2022 in the largest emergency hospital in NE Romania. Of 509 patients, 441 had infected lesions, 78 had sepsis caused by venous ulcers from microbial eczema cellulitis, superinfected bullous dermatoses, erysipelas, and erythroderma. Cultured samples revealed S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli; and K. pneumoniae and S. β-hemolytic associated with sepsis, even if this was rarer. Clinical manifestations included ulcerations, erosions, fissures, excoriations, bullae, vesicles, pruritus, tumefaction, edema, fever, chills, pain, adenopathy, and mildly altered mental status. Underlying chronic heart failure, atrial fibrillation, anemia, and type-1 diabetes mellitus were comorbidities associated with infection and sepsis. Significant associations and risk factors, including their combined effects, are discussed to draw attention to the need for further research and adequate management to prevent sepsis in adult patients of any age presenting with infected skin lesions (especially cellulitis) and comorbidities (especially type 1 diabetes mellitus and anemia).
Differences in Histological Subtypes of Invasive Lobular Breast Carcinoma According to Immunohistochemical Molecular Classification
Authors: Ilić Ivan , Cvetković Jana , Ilić Ratko , Cvetković Ljubiša , Milićević Aleksandar , Todorović Stefan , Ranđelović Pavle
Published: March 2024

The technical complexity of gene expression profiling in routine practice has necessitated the use of surrogate molecular classification of breast cancer, based on immunohistochemical analyses. Background and objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the differences between histological and molecular subtypes of invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) of the breast, in order to be able to predict the behavior and prognosis of the disease, as well as to effectively determine therapy. Material and Methods: This study included 263 cases of breast ILC diagnosed over a seven-year period. The diagnosis of invasive lobular carcinoma is based on the characteristic growth pattern and phenotype of cancer cells with the respective subtypes: classic, alveolar, solid, tubulolobular, pleomorphic and mixed lobular type. The examined cases were divided into five groups according to molecular classification based on the expression of ER, PR, HER2 and Ki67 immunohistochemical markers. Results: It was found that the pleomorphic subtype occurred statistically significantly less often as the luminal A subtype compared to others (p = 0.00027), and the HER2-enriched subtype occurred statistically significantly more often in the pT4 stage (p = 0.024). Conclusions: The results of this study significantly singled out the luminal A subtype, and among them classic ILC, as the subtype with the most favorable expression ratio of the investigated predictive/prognostic immunohistochemical markers.
Osteoporosis Is Associated with an Increased Risk of Colorectal Neoplasms Regardless of Sex: Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Yoo Seung Heon , Nam Ji Hyung , Oh Dong Jun , Park Geun U , Kim Sang Hoon , Kang Hyoun Woo , Kim Jae Hak , Lim Yun Jeong
Published: March 2024

Vitamin D may have anticancer effects against colorectal cancer (CRC). Bone mineral density (BMD) reflects the long-term vitamin D status. This study investigated the association between osteoporosis and colorectal neoplasms (CRN). The data were obtained from the National Health Insurance Service sample cohort, which included 60,386 osteoporosis patients and 8224 controls who underwent BMD in 2002–2019. The logistic regression models included age, sex, income level, and comorbidity. Sensitivity tests were performed using the data from the National Health Screening Program. In total, 7706 (11.2%) patients were diagnosed with CRN, and the proportion was significantly higher in osteoporosis patients than in controls (11.7% vs. 8.1%). In the multivariate analysis, osteoporosis was associated with an increased risk of CRN (odds ratio (OR) = 1.91, 95% confidence interval = 1.75–2.09, p < 0.0001), which was significant for both colorectal adenomas and CRC (OR = 1.88 and 1.83, respectively). A subgroup analysis by sex revealed a significant association between osteoporosis and CRN in both women and men (OR = 2.06 and 1.66, respectively). The sensitivity tests revealed results similar to those of the original dataset. In conclusion, osteoporosis is significantly associated with CRN risk in both sexes. In high-risk patients with low BMD, appropriate screening for CRN and vitamin D supplementation are required, regardless of sex.
Collaborating with Families for Innovative School Mental Health
Authors: Bachman Hadley F. , Cunningham Patrick D. , Boone Barbara J.
Published: March 2024

In this study, a comprehensive narrative literature review is presented, examining the cross-section between family engagement and student mental health. Guided by two research questions and grounded in resiliency theory, the overlapping spheres of influence framework, and the literature on protective factors and positive childhood experiences, this study unveiled five primary themes: emphasizing the importance of educators promoting supportive relationships at home, engaging families in building teacher–student connections, collaborating to establish routines and rituals, nurturing a sense of belonging at home and at school, and fostering collaborative problem solving and self-regulation. These themes are illuminated through practical vignettes. This study guides school-based mental health practitioners and educators and provides a roadmap for future research in family–school partnership for enhancing student well-being.