bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional and potential health benefits of chufa oil, olive oil, and anhydrous milk fat against gallstone disease in a C57BL/6N mouse model
Authors: Zommara Mohsen A. , Swelam Seham , Raya-Álvarez Enrique , Imaizumi Katsumi , Elmahdy Ahmed , Alkhudhayri Dalal A. , Aljehani Abeer A. , Agil Ahmad , Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb
Published: September 2024

Dietary lipids play a major role in many diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases. Recently, the health value of plant oils, particularly heart health, has been recognized. Despite these facts, limited information is available on the potential nutritional and anti-arteriolosclerosis effects of chufa oil, olive oil, and anhydrous milk fat in C57BL/6N mice. In the present study, the effects of olive oil (OO), chufa oil (CO), and anhydrous milk fat (AMF) on 4-week-old C57BL/6N male mice, a model for studies of diet-induced atherosclerosis, were investigated. The AIN-93G-based diet was supplemented with 15% of either OO, CO, or AMF. The final mixture of the diets contained 15% fat, approximately 1.25% cholesterol, and 0.5% sodium cholate. The data obtained showed that most mice had gallstone disease. The highest percentage of the gallstones formed were found in AMF groups (approximately 85.7% of the mice). However, the lowest one was found in the chufa oil group (42.9%), followed by the olive oil group (57.1%). Although the mice’s food intake significantly differed, their body weights did not change during the feeding period. The diet supplemented with CO resulted in a significant reduction in serum cholesterol compared with the other groups. Livers from the CO-fed group showed higher triglyceride levels than those from the AMF group. No significant differences were found in atherosclerotic lesions in the aortic valve between the groups. Collectively, our results show no deleterious nutritional effects of the fats used on C57BL/6N mice fed cholesterol-rich diets. Chufa oil improved cholesterol metabolism and atherogenic index in mice. However, the major issue is the formation of gallstones in all mice, which is most prominent in AMF, followed by olive oil and chufa oil diets.
Comparison of the PlusoptiX A16 and vision screener V100
Authors: Jorge Jorge , Fernandes Paulo
Published: September 2024

Clinical relevance

This study compares a novel photoscreening device with a previously validated one in a school-age population. It highlights a tendency of the new device to underestimate myopic spherical equivalent and overestimate hyperopic cases.

Purpose

To compare the PlusoptiX A16 and Vision Screener V100 photoscreeners in a study population of school-age children.

Methods

One hundred and thirty-three children, with a mean age of 6.4 ± 0.5 years, were evaluated using both the PlusoptiX A16 and Vision Screener V100 photoscreeners. The measurements were taken in random order in a room with diminished ambient lighting.

Results

The mean refractive error values for the M component were 0.27 ± 0.67D (PlusoptiX A16) and 0.21 ± 0.58D (Vision Screener V100). For the J0 component, means were 0.16 ± 0.38D (PlusoptiX A16) and 0.06 ± 0.33D (Vision Screener V100) and for theJ45 component the means were 0.03 ± 0.17D (PlusoptiX A16) and 0.06 ± 0.22D (Vision Screener V100). When compared both instruments, statistically significant differences were observed for the M (p=0.017) and J0 (p=0.004) components. The agreement rates between PlusoptiX A16 and Vision Screener V100 across different refractive components were 80.5% for sphere, 82.0% for cylinder, and 40.6% for axis when considering a range of ±0.75 D for sphere and cylinder and ±25.0 degrees for cylinder axis. Simultaneously considering all three conditions, the overall agreement was 73.7%.

Conclusion

The Vision Screener V100, while generally aligning well with PlusoptiX A16, tends to underestimate myopic spherical equivalent, overestimate hyperopic cases, and underestimate J0 astigmatism.
Global research on sufentanil use in anesthesiology from 2003 to 2023: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Huang Duoqin , Luo Zixin , Song Xinyue , Zou Kang
Published: September 2024

Objective

The application of sufentanil of anesthesiology has become a popular research area. However, literature-based bibliometric analyses on sufentanil are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to review the application of sufentanil in anesthesiology, and evaluate the research status and trends in this field.

Methods

We searched the SCI-Expanded, SSCI, and CPCI-S databases from the Web of Science core collection as data sources for articles published from 1 January2003, to 31 December2023, and bibliometric and VOSviewer software were used to visualize and analyze the literature in terms of authors, journals, countries, institutions, and their collaborative networks, as well as keyword networks.

Results

Our analysis included 1,473 relevant publications on the application of sufentanil in anesthesiology. The overall number of publications is on the rise; the top three countries of study were China, the US and France; the top three universities that published relevant articles were Anhui Medical University, Capital Medical University and Zhejiang University; the largest number of publications focused on Anesthesia and analgesia; At present, the studies in this field mainly focus on the application scope, mode, and advantages; adverse reactions; and combined effects of sufentanil in combination with other drugs. The adverse factors for the use of sufentanil in anesthesiology and ways to improve its safety and efficacy are hot topics of research. Future research should explore the applicability of population and dose utilization, novel drug combinations, non-opioid adjuncts, and technological innovations.

Conclusion

An increasing number of publications indicates that researchers are showing interest in the field of sufentanil use in anesthesiology, and ongoing research is at a relatively mature level. While the international community has established a strong foundation for cooperation, the cooperation among researchers, institutions, and countries needs to be enhanced. Simultaneously, efforts must be made to explore and strengthen personnel cooperation, expand the coverage of funding support, and improve the quality of the literature.
The onset and the development of cardiometabolic aging: an insight into the underlying mechanisms
Authors: Sarkar Sulogna , Prasanna Vani S. , Das Pamelika , Suzuki Hiroshi , Fujihara Kazuya , Kodama Satoru , Sone Hirohito , Sreedhar Remya , Velayutham Ravichandiran , Watanabe Kenichi , Arumugam Somasundaram
Published: September 2024

Metabolic compromise is crucial in aggravating age-associated chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, increased LDL and triglycerides, and elevated blood pressure. Excessive adiposity, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance due to aging are associated with elevated levels of damaging free radicals, inducing a proinflammatory state and hampering immune cell activity, leading to a malfunctioning cardiometabolic condition. The age-associated oxidative load and redox imbalance are contributing factors for cardiometabolic morbidities via vascular remodelling and endothelial damage. Recent evidence has claimed the importance of gut microbiota in maintaining regular metabolic activity, which declines with chronological aging and cardiometabolic comorbidities. Genetic mutations, polymorphic changes, and environmental factors strongly correlate with increased vulnerability to aberrant cardiometabolic changes by affecting key physiological pathways. Numerous studies have reported a robust link between biological aging and cardiometabolic dysfunction. This review outlines the scientific evidence exploring potential mechanisms behind the onset and development of cardiovascular and metabolic issues, particularly exacerbated with aging.
The oxygen uptake efficiency slope does not accurately predict V˙O2peak of children – the Arkansas Active Kids study
Authors: Edwards Timothy , Børsheim Elisabet , Weber Judith L. , Diaz Eva C.
Published: September 2024

Background

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a vital indicator of health. However, accurately measuring peak oxygen consumption (V˙O2peak) to determine CRF in children can be challenging. The oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) has been proposed as an alternative metric for predicting V˙O2peak in children, but its accuracy and agreement with measured V˙O2peak remain unclear.

Methods

A post hoc analysis was conducted in 94 children (ages 7–10 years) who completed an incremental cycle ergometer test to measure V˙O2peak. Body composition (Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) was measured, and fat mass index (FMI, kg/m2) and fat-free mass index (FFMI, kg/m2) were calculated. OUES was determined using all respiratory data (OUES100%) collected during the cycle ergometer test and using data only up to 60% of heart rate reserve (OUES60%HRR). Regression equations to predict V˙O2peak (Pred-V˙O2peak) were derived from simple and multiple linear regression analysis. Bland-Altman analysis assessed the level of agreement between Pred-V˙O2peak and measured V˙O2peak.

Results

OUES60%HRR (β = 0.46, p < 0.0001), age (β = 56.0, p = 0.0004), White race (β = 173.3, p < 0.0003), FFMI (β = 0.98.6, p < 0.000), and FMI (β = −0.40.8, p < 0.000) were retained in the final model. The difference between measured V˙O2peak and Pred-V˙O2peak was not different from zero (p = 0.999). There was a positive association between the difference of measured V˙O2peak and Pred-V˙O2peak and the average of the two methods (β = 0.79, p = 0.0028).

Conclusion

There was no mean bias between measured V˙O2peak and Pred-V˙O2peak. However, magnitude bias was present even after considering other significant predictors of V˙O2peak (FMI, FFMI, race, and age) in the regression equation. Caution is advised when using OUES to predict V˙O2peak in children.
Dysfunctional eating attitudes and behaviors among French elite athletes: the impact of psychological characteristics and the sporting calendar
Authors: Daubresse Amandine , Meignie Alice , Antero Juliana , Hanon Christine , Mériaux-Scoffier Stéphanie
Published: September 2024

Background

Research on sport psychology suggests that athletes are at risk of developing dysfunctional eating attitudes and behaviors (DEAB), however the origins of these behaviors remain largely unexplored. The present study aims to identify factors (i.e., personality traits, anxiety levels, eating attitudes and behaviors, the internalization of sport thinness norms, and resilience) associated with the development of DEAB among female endurance athletes, in training and competition.

Method

A longitudinal follow-up study was conducted among 14 elite female athletes who were tested daily, weekly, and quarterly over 12 months in 2022, for a total of 545 measures. Participants completed questionnaires assessing personality traits, anxiety levels, eating attitudes and behaviors, the internalization of sport thinness norms, and resilience. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all study data, and odds ratios were conducted to compare the variance of psychological factors and sporting factors depending on the level of DEAB and the sport period. Significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Overall, 28% of our sample of athletes were identified with DEAB. Among those with DEAB, scores for agreeableness, anxiety, and competitive anxiety were significantly higher, while scores for resilience were significantly lower than those without DEAB. During the competitive season, scores for self-regulatory eating attitudes and the internalization of thinness norms were significantly higher than during the training period.

Conclusion

Our results suggest a greater probability of DEAB among athletes who exhibit the trait of agreeableness, experience anxiety during competition, and lack resilience. The competitive season was also identified as a period conducive for developing DEAB compared with the training period. Based on these results our study suggests preventive measures that can be implemented with athletes displaying these traits, with a particular emphasis during the competitive phase.
Integrating mental health literacy into Chinese college student mental health education in the post-COVID-19 era
Authors: Gao Tao , Gao Bo , Wang Linzhao , Qing Zaihua
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the influence of COVID-19 on the mental health of Chinese college students and evaluates the current status of mental health literacy (MHL) education. With mental health issues among students becoming increasingly prominent due to the pandemic and rapid social changes, enhancing MHL is critical. The research highlights the necessity of integrating mental health education with MHL to foster resilience and effective coping strategies. It proposes a model combining online and offline education to maximize accessibility and engagement. By examining both domestic and international perspectives, the study underscores the importance of comprehensive mental health education reform in the post-pandemic era. This integrated approach aims to improve students’ mental well-being, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking behaviors, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more supportive campus environment.
ESG systems and financial performance in industries with significant environmental impact: a comprehensive analysis
Authors: Li Qingwen , Tang Waifan , Li Zhaobin
Published: September 2024

Research background and significance

As China's economy continues its rapid expansion, the issue of environmental degradation has escalated, particularly within industries with significant environmental impact, such as steel, chemical, pharmaceutical sectors. These sectors are confronted with profound environmental and social responsibility challenges. The development of robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) systems has therefore become essential for improving environmental performance, meeting social responsibilities, and optimizing corporate governance structures. This study investigates the impact of ESG system implementation on the financial performance of enterprises within these environmentally impactful industries, offering a scientific foundation and practical guidance for corporate leaders and policymakers to facilitate green transformation and sustainable development.

Methods and data

This research integrates empirical analysis with case studies, employing a dataset of 2,376 observations from 792 listed companies within industries with significant environmental impact, spanning the period from 2019 to 2021. The data, sourced from the Wind database, were analyzed using multiple regression techniques. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between overall ESG scores and corporate performance, measured by Return on Equity (ROE) and Return on Assets (ROA). All three ESG dimensions—environmental (E), social (S), and governance (G)—exhibit positive impacts on corporate performance. Furthermore, factors such as company size and growth rate are positively correlated with performance, whereas leverage ratio is negatively correlated. To further substantiate the empirical findings, a case study of Hunan Valin Steel Co., Ltd. was conducted.

Results and conclusions

The findings of this study demonstrate that the implementation of ESG systems substantially enhances the financial performance of enterprises within industries characterized by significant environmental impacts. Specifically, investments in environmental protection led to greater resource utilization efficiency, social responsibility initiatives foster enhanced employee productivity and customer loyalty, and strong corporate governance improves management structures and decision-making processes. The case study of Hunan Valin Steel Co., Ltd. reinforces these results, illustrating that a comprehensive ESG framework not only helps such enterprises achieve their environmental and social responsibility objectives but also markedly improves their financial outcomes. This research provides robust empirical evidence and actionable management recommendations for ESG system implementation in environmentally impactful industries, along with scientific support for informed policymaking.
Comparing fourth-year medical students’ procedural surgical skill learning outcomes between third-person point-of-view video lectures and first-person point-of-view immersive virtual reality: a pilot study of surgically implanting a subdermal drain on cadavers
Authors: Neuwirth Lorenz S. , Ng Sam , Devors Sandrine , Lonjon Nicolas , Ros Maxime
Published: September 2024

The use of virtual reality (VR) training in medical school education has increased over the last decade partly due to coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) and due to technology advancements in this integrative area. As medical students are being trained in new pedagogical interventions, it is important to drill-down and focus on the areas of most translational concern for assessing their competency and proficiency. Thus, the present pilot study sought to evaluate a group of fourth-year medical students’ ability to learn a modified medical school curriculum on implementing a subdermal drain by first learning how to stitch on a silicone model (i.e., proper stitching only) and then being randomly assigned to either a third-person point-of-view (TP-POV) or first-person point-of-view (FP-POV) immersive VR group to learn how to conduct the surgical procedure (i.e., conceptually and procedurally). Then, the participants’ surgical procedural motor skills were assessed on a single attempt to demonstrate their competency and proficiency on a cadaver. The results showed that the pedagogical learning differences in FP-POV immersive VR improved the cleanliness and accuracy of the surgical dissection movement and drain placement with 100% proficiency in the first attempt at implementing this surgical technique on a cadaver. Additionally, there was statistically significant improvement in the dissection movement (p < 0.05*) and the tension test (p < 0.01**) in the FP-POV group compared to the TP-POV group, even with a small sample size in the present pilot study. These findings offer unique training opportunities to be considered when designing future VR curriculum with the suggested use of repeated-measures designs on the surgical procedural motor skills to assess learning curves and their potential translations in reducing operating room errors, costs, planning and scheduling times, and surgery overlaps, thereby positively contributing to a more efficient and safer OR surgical experience by staff and patients in the near future.
In Silico Optimization of a Fed-Batch Bioreactor for Tryptophan Production Using a Structured Hybrid Model and Several Algorithms Including a Pareto-Optimal Front
Authors: Maria Gheorghe , Gheorghe Daniela
Published: September 2024

Hybrid kinetic models, linking structured models of cell (nano-scale) metabolic processes to the dynamics of macroscopic variables of the bioreactor, are proven to lead to more precise predictions of all key-species dynamics under variable operating conditions, being of an exceptional importance in engineering evaluations to in-silico (math-model-based) determine the optimal operating mode of a fed-batch bioreactor (FBR). Even if such extended dynamic models require more experimental and computational efforts, their use has proven to be advantageous. The approached probative example refers to the simulation of the dynamics of some key species of the central carbon metabolism (CCM) of a modified E. coli cell, linked to the state variables of a FBR used for the tryptophan (TRP) production. By using several optimization algorithms, and an original application of the Pareto-optimal front technique, this paper compares various operating alternatives by using multiple control variables, aiming to maximize TRP production, with minimum substrate consumption. The used E. coli strain was modified to drastically amplify the glucose (GLC) uptake into the cell.
Improving Re-Identification by Estimating and Utilizing Diverse Uncertainty Types for Embeddings
Authors: Eisenbach Markus , Gebhardt Andreas , Aganian Dustin , Gross Horst-Michael
Published: September 2024

In most re-identification approaches, embedding vectors are compared to identify the best match for a given query. However, this comparison does not take into account whether the encoded information in the embedding vectors was extracted reliably from the input images. We propose the first attempt that illustrates how all three types of uncertainty, namely model uncertainty (also known as epistemic uncertainty), data uncertainty (also known as aleatoric uncertainty), and distributional uncertainty, can be estimated for embedding vectors. We provide evidence that we do indeed estimate these types of uncertainty, and that each type has its own value for improving re-identification performance. In particular, while the few state-of-the-art approaches that employ uncertainty for re-identification during inference utilize only data uncertainty to improve single-shot re-identification performance, we demonstrate that the estimated model uncertainty vector can be utilized to modify the feature vector. We explore the best method for utilizing the estimated model uncertainty based on the Market-1501 dataset and demonstrate that we are able to further enhance the performance above the already strong baseline UAL. Additionally, we show that the estimated distributional uncertainty resembles the degree to which the current sample is out-of-distribution. To illustrate this, we divide the distractor set of the Market-1501 dataset into four classes, each representing a different degree of out-of-distribution. By computing a score based on the estimated distributional uncertainty vector, we are able to correctly order the four distractor classes and to differentiate them from an in-distribution set to a significant extent.
Non-Monotonic Variation of Acoustic Spectrum with the Mass or Thickness of a Layered Structure
Authors: Cojocaru Sergiu
Published: September 2024

We are examining the behavior of resonance frequencies and their response to variations of material parameters such as thicknesses, masses, and bulk velocities for certain Rayleigh–Lamb acoustic modes in a multilayered structure. The treatment is based on recent explicit analytic solutions that have allowed us to explore the entire parametric space using dimensionless ratios. This exploration has revealed a complex parametric dependence of the phase velocities and their mass loading response. Specifically, for the fundamental flexural modes in a bilayer, we have shown that both quantities change in a strongly non-monotonic way with thickness, density, or bulk velocity ratios. Even in the regime of thin coating, commonly encountered in acoustic sensing applications, we have found important differences from previously known results, e.g., that response to loading may switch its sign multiple times when the velocity of the deposited material is increased. We have also discovered that the fundamental dilatational modes can be highly effective in stabilizing resonant frequencies against even large variations of the thickness or mass of the exposed layer. This property is demonstrated in an explicit form by the derived expression for the mass coefficient of frequency for an arbitrary number of layers.
Emic and Etic Perspectives on HR Practice for Managing Human Resource Issues Affected by the Prevalence of Informal Networks in Arab Countries
Authors: Ali Sa’ad , Weir David , AlQahtani Munirah Sarhan , Mrabet Mansour
Published: September 2024

Whilst research on Wasta has been improving in quantity and quality, there is still much more to know about the interactions between the different parties in Wasta transactions, the role of power in this process and how it impacts HR functions. As such, this research aims to address this gap by exploring the use of Wasta in human resources (HR) functions, drawing on 17 semi-structured interviews with HR, recruitment and line managers working in the Jordanian banking sector. This paper focuses on the roles of trust and power in the organizational transactions in which Wasta is positioned and identifies recruitment and selection (R&S) as one of the main human resource (HR) practices and procedures that are affected by Wasta. The findings shed light on the impact of Wasta on HRM practice on the micro and macro levels, highlighting the complex socio-economic needs for this practice which, whilst they might be beneficial on the micro level in terms of securing employment for job seekers and benefits for organizations in the Wasta exchange process, can also have some substantive negative outcomes in the forms of social and economic exclusion of others outside the Wasta network. By doing so, it develops the conceptualization beyond the often-simplistic view of Wasta as a negative (and sometimes positive) practice as viewed by previous research extending it to a practice that could have either impact on different stakeholders.
Supplemental Xylooligosaccharide Attenuates Growth Retardation and Intestinal Damage in Broiler Chickens Challenged by Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Ren Lulu , Cao Qingyun , Ye Hui , Dong Zemin , Zhang Changming , Feng Dingyuan , Zuo Jianjun , Wang Weiwei
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the protective effects of xylooligosaccharide (XOS) on the growth performance and intestinal health of broilers challenged by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC). A total of 144 newly hatched male Lingnan yellow-feathered broilers were randomly divided into three groups (six replicates/group): a control (CON) group, an APEC group and an XOS group (APEC-challenged broilers supplemented with 1600 mg/kg XOS). Birds in the APEC and XOS groups were orally challenged with APEC from 7 to 12 d of age. Growth performance and intestinal health-related parameters were determined on d 13 and 17. The reductions (p < 0.05) in final body weight, average daily gain and elevation (p < 0.05) in intestinal APEC colonization in challenged broilers were counteracted by the XOS addition, which also alleviated the APEC-induced reductions (p < 0.05) in jejunal goblet cell count and density in broilers on d 17. Supplementing with XOS increased (p < 0.05) jejunal villus height and crypt depth, coupled with occludin and zonula occluden-1 expression, on d 17, and diminished the change (p < 0.05) in the jejunal inflammatory cytokine expression profile in a time-dependent manner. Moreover, cecal counts of total bacteria and Lactobacillus in challenged broilers were augmented (p < 0.05) by the XOS addition, which also mitigated APEC-induced reductions (p < 0.05) in cecal acetate, butyrate and valerate concentrations in broilers on d 13 or 17. Supplementing with XOS blocked the increases (p < 0.05) in the expression of cecal E. coli virulence genes relA and ompR on d 13 along with the expression of fimH and csgA on d 17. XOS alleviated APEC-induced growth retardation and intestinal disruption in broilers partially by restraining the intestinal colonization of APEC. Furthermore, the improvements in cecal microbiota and fermentation pattern, along with attenuation of cecal E. coli virulence resulting from XOS supplementation, could also support the maintenance of intestinal health in APEC-challenged broilers.
Quantitative Analysis of Vertical and Temporal Variations in the Chlorophyll Content of Winter Wheat Leaves via Proximal Multispectral Remote Sensing and Deep Transfer Learning
Authors: Zhang Changsai , Yi Yuan , Zhang Shuxia , Li Pei
Published: September 2024

Quantifying the vertical distribution of leaf chlorophyll content (LCC) is integral for a comprehensive understanding of the physiological status and function of winter wheat crops, having significant implications for crop management and yield optimization. In this study, we investigated the vertical LCC trait of winter wheat during two consecutive field growth seasons using proximal multispectral imaging measurements to evaluate vertical variations of LCC within winter wheat canopies. The results revealed the non-uniform vertical LCC distribution varied across the entire growth season. The effects of nitrogen fertilization rate on LCC among vertical layers increased gradually from upper to lower layers of canopy. To enhance LCC prediction accuracy, this study proposes a deep transfer learning network model for leaf trait estimation (LeafTNet). It integrates the advantages of physical radiative transfer simulations with deep neural network through transfer learning. The results demonstrate that the LeafTNet achieved remarkable predictive performance and strong robustness. Furthermore, the proposed method exhibits superior estimation accuracy compared to empirical statistical method and traditional machine learning method. This study highlights the performance of LeafTNet in accurately and efficiently quantifying LCC from proximal multispectral data, which provide technical support for the estimation of the vertical distribution of leaf traits and improve crop management.
SA-SRYOLOv8: A Research on Star Anise Variety Recognition Based on a Lightweight Cascaded Neural Network and Diversified Fusion Dataset
Authors: Chen Haosong , Zhang Fujie , Guo Chaofan , Yi Junjie , Ma Xiangkai
Published: September 2024

Star anise, a widely popular spice, benefits from classification that enhances its economic value. In response to the low identification efficiency and accuracy of star anise varieties in the market, as well as the scarcity of related research, this study proposes an efficient identification method based on non-similarity augmentation and a lightweight cascaded neural network. Specifically, this approach utilizes a Siamese enhanced data network and a front-end SRGAN network to address sample imbalance and the challenge of identifying blurred images. The YOLOv8 model is further lightweight to reduce memory usage and increase detection speed, followed by optimization of the weight parameters through an extended training strategy. Additionally, a diversified fusion dataset of star anise, incorporating open data, was constructed to further validate the feasibility and effectiveness of this method. Testing showed that the SA-SRYOLOv8 detection model achieved an average detection precision (mAP) of 96.37%, with a detection speed of 146 FPS. Ablation experiment results showed that compared to the original YOLOv8 and the improved YOLOv8, the cascade model’s mAP increased by 0.09 to 0.81 percentage points. Additionally, when compared to mainstream detection models such as SSD, Fast R-CNN, YOLOv3, YOLOv5, YOLOX, and YOLOv7, the cascade model’s mAP increased by 1.81 to 19.7 percentage points. Furthermore, the model was significantly lighter, at only about 7.4% of the weight of YOLOv3, and operated at twice the speed of YOLOv7. Visualization results demonstrated that the cascade model accurately detected multiple star anise varieties across different scenarios, achieving high-precision detection targets. The model proposed in this study can provide new theoretical frameworks and ideas for constructing real-time star anise detection systems, offering new technological applications for smart agriculture.
Evaluation of Giant Knotweed Extract, Regalia, and Antibiotics in Control of Shoot Blight and Fire Blight Canker Phases on Apple
Authors: Boeckman Nathanial , Borba Matheus Correa , Aćimović Srđan G.
Published: September 2024

We evaluated the effectiveness of three different treatment groups at managing apple shoot blight, and the resulting canker incidence and canker length on wood caused by Erwinia amylovora. Preventative foliar sprays or trunk injections of giant knotweed extract (Regalia), oxytetracycline (Arbor-OTC or FireLine + Regulaid), or streptomycin (Agri-mycin/FireWall + Regulaid) were applied to mature ‘Fuji’ trees. Regalia and oxytetracycline were ineffective at reducing shoot blight severity, showing poor disease reductions of 18.2% and 24.3% compared to untreated controls across both years. Streptomycin was effective at controlling shoot blight severity when applied as a spray application, reducing necrosis by up to 93.9% across both years. Canker incidence was also poorly reduced by Regalia and oxytetracycline with an average decrease of 33.3% and 52.4%, respectively. Again, spray applications of streptomycin were most effective at reducing canker incidence (95.2%). When present, canker length was best controlled by spray applications of streptomycin, showing an average reduction of 95.7%. The effectiveness of Regalia and oxytetracycline was poor, reducing canker length by only 30.4% and 43.5%, respectively. Trunk injections of Regalia were consistently less effective than spray applications. Compared to their spray application counterpart, Regalia injections were, on average, 12.5%, 26.3%, and 25.1% less effective at reducing shoot blight severity, canker incidence, and canker length, respectively. Injected Arbor-OTC was more effective than spray applications of oxytetracycline. On average, Arbor-OTC injections were up to 28.3%, 40.1%, and 30% more effective at reducing shoot blight severity, canker incidence, and canker length compared to spray applications. Overall, Regalia and oxytetracycline were not as effective as streptomycin at controlling fire blight. The search for organic antibiotic alternatives for shoot blight and canker control continues, as cankers are increasing in economic importance by causing bearing wood and young tree death.
Optimizing Nitrogen Fertilizer Application for Synergistic Enhancement of Economic and Ecological Benefits in Rice–Crab Co-Culture Systems
Authors: Xu Yang , Li Hao , Wang Hongyuan , Du Xinzhong , Bashir Muhammad Amjad , Zhang Xiushuang , Sun Wentao , An Miaoying , Liu Hongbin
Published: September 2024

The rice–crab co-culture (RC) system is a multidimensional integrated farming model with significant potential for balancing ecological and economic benefits in paddy fields. However, improper nitrogen (N) fertilizer application exacerbates greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, degrades water quality, and disrupts the balance of the RC ecosystem. Therefore, optimizing and improving N management strategies for the RC system is crucial to maximize its ecological and economic benefits. This study conducted a two-year field experiment to assess the impact of optimizing N application on the productivity, sustainability, and economic benefits in RC systems. Comparisons were made to compare rice and crab productions, GHG emissions, and net ecosystem economic benefit (NEEB) between the RC and rice monoculture (RM) systems under different N application rates (0, 150, 210, and 270 kg ha−1) with the aim of identifying the optimal N application rate for the RC system. The results showed that the N application rate of 210 kg ha−1 in the RC system improved the agronomic traits and N use efficiency, leading to a 0.4% increase in rice yield (7603.1 kg ha−1) compared to the maximum rice yield in the RM system at 270 kg ha−1. At this application rate, surface water quality was optimal for crabs, resulting in the highest crab yields (370.1 kg ha−1) and average weights (81.1 g). The lower N application reduced the greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) of the RC system by 13.7% compared to the RM system. The NEEB at the optimal N application rate of 210 kg ha−1 in the RC system reached 8597.5 CNY ha−1, which was 1265.7% higher than that of the RM system at 270 kg ha−1. In summary, optimizing N application in the RC system conserves N fertilizer resources, increases rice and crab yields, and reduces GHG emissions, thereby synergistically enhancing both economic and ecological benefits. Optimizing the N application rate has greater potential in other innovative RC models, and the productivity, sustainability, and economic efficiency should be further investigated.
Transnasal Brain Sampling for Human Rabies Diagnosis
Authors: Djimatey Moses Barima , Abubakar Abdul-Rahim , Sylverken Augustina Angelina , Odoom Theophilus , Abubakari Braimah Baba , Ohemeng John Akwasi , Yale Gowri , Lohr Frederic , Gamble Luke , Mahadevan Anita
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Rabies remains a significant global threat, yet accurate estimations of its impact are hindered by the lack of confirmatory diagnoses. Postmortem diagnosis of rabies traditionally involves invasive brain tissue testing, a process met with resistance from deceased patients’ families, impeding consent. This paper presents and evaluates an innovative yet unpublished transnasal approach for postmortem brain tissue collection, offering a minimally invasive, easier, faster, and safer method. This method preserves the cadaver’s integrity, potentially easing family reluctance towards autopsies. The limited testing of both human and animal rabies in Ghana highlights the challenges in diagnosing this fatal disease. Scarce diagnostic resources and the complexity of obtaining brain tissue samples exacerbate the issue. Cultural and religious beliefs surrounding autopsies contribute to familial hesitation, as families view these procedures as disruptive and disfiguring, further complicating consent. Methodology: The transnasal technique involves approaching the brain tissue through the nostrils and cribriform plate without any superficial manipulation of the patient’s head and face, thereby preserving the aesthetics and natural features of the person. Results: Technological advancements and seamless One Health collaboration among governmental, non-governmental, and research entities locally and globally have culminated in Ghana’s first confirmed rabies diagnosis using this method of brain tissue collection. This success emphasizes the efficiency and feasibility of the transnasal brain collection approach and the invaluable role of the One Health approach and collaborative efforts in overcoming diagnostic challenges in rabies control.
Characterisation of Ovine KRTAP19-3 and Its Impact on Wool Traits in Chinese Tan Sheep
Authors: Bai Lingrong , Zhou Huitong , Tao Jinzhong , Hickford Jon G. H.
Published: September 2024

Wool, a natural fibre derived from sheep, can present a challenge to wool processing and manufacturing industries because of the variation in fibre traits. Genetic improvement offers one solution to this challenge, and having a better understanding of the genes that affect wool fibre traits is therefore important. Here, we describe ovine KRTAP19-3, a new member of the KAP19 gene family. Phylogenetic analysis revealed its relationship to other known KRTAP19 gene sequences, and an analysis of the nucleotide sequence variation in KRTAP19-3 from 288 sheep of a variety of breeds revealed six unique variant sequences. Among these variants, eleven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected, with six located in the coding region. Three of these coding region SNPs were non-synonymous and would result in amino acid changes. Associations were observed between the presence of specific sequence variants in Chinese Tan sheep and wool trait variation, particularly an increase in fibre diameter variability in the heterotypic hair fibres. These findings enhance our understanding of the genes that encode sheep wool proteins.
Dietary Fermented Blueberry Pomace Supplementation Improves Small Intestinal Barrier Function and Modulates Cecal Microbiota in Aged Laying Hens
Authors: Qin Binghua , Li Zhihua , Zhu Qian , Chen Ting , Lan Wei , Cui Yadong , Azad Md. Abul Kalam , Kong Xiangfeng
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of fermented blueberry pomace (FBP) on the intestinal barrier function and cecal microbiome of aged laying hens. A total of 320 Yukou Jingfen No. 8 laying hens (345-day-old) were randomly divided into a control group, 0.25% FBP group, 0.5% FBP group, or 1.0% FBP group. The results showed that the villus height (VH) in the jejunum of the 0.25–0.5% FBP groups and villus surface area in the jejunum of the 0.25% FBP group were higher (p < 0.05), while 0.25% FBP supplementation displayed a higher (p = 0.070) VH in the ileum compared to the control group. Mucin-2 expression was upregulated (p < 0.05) in the jejunum of the 0.5% FBP group and the ileum of the 0.25–0.5% FBP groups. Compared to the control group, interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 expressions were upregulated (p < 0.05) in the 1.0% FBP group. Microbiota analysis revealed that Prevotella abundance in the cecum of the 0.5–1.0% FBP groups was higher (p < 0.05) than in the 0.25% FBP group. In addition, microbial function prediction analysis showed that cecal microbiota in the 0.25% FBP group were mainly enriched by alanine/aspartate/glutamate metabolism and methane metabolism. Moreover, Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed the potential correlations between the abundance of the cecal microbiota and intestinal-barrier-function-related gene expressions, as well as the short-chain fatty acid content, of laying hens. In summary, dietary FBP supplementation enhanced intestinal barrier function by improving intestinal morphology, upregulating gene expressions related to barrier function, and altering the cecal microbiota of aged laying hens.
Beyond Antibiotics: What the Future Holds
Authors: Benyamini Payam
Published: September 2024

The prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) and stagnant drug-development pipelines have led to the rapid rise of hard-to-treat antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. These infectious diseases are no longer just nosocomial but are also becoming community-acquired. The spread of MDR has reached a crisis level that needs immediate attention. The landmark O’Neill report projects that by 2050, mortality rates associated with MDR bacterial infections will surpass mortality rates associated with individuals afflicted with cancer. Since conventional antimicrobials are no longer very reliable, it is of great importance to investigate different strategies to combat these life-threatening infectious diseases. Here, we provide an overview of recent advances in viable alternative treatment strategies mainly targeting a pathogen’s virulence capability rather than viability. Topics include small molecule and immune inhibition of virulence factors, quorum sensing (QS) quenching, inhibition of biofilm development, bacteriophage-mediated therapy, and manipulation of an individual’s macroflora to combat MDR bacterial infections.
Design of a Feed Array Antenna to Obtain a Uniform Near-Field Distribution on a Virtual Surface Placed within a Specified Wavelength
Authors: Hwang Minsu , Jang Doyoung , Choo Hosung
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a novel feed array antenna to achieve a uniform electric field distribution in the near-field region for feeding a large-aperture antenna. The feed antenna has a 4 × 4 rectangular array configuration to obtain uniform near-field distribution on a virtual target surface. Each element of the array consists of a Vivaldi radiator and parasitic rings, and these two components have different radiating modes. In particular, the near-field pattern of the parasitic rings can be varied by adjusting their radii. Thus, the required near-field distribution on the virtual target surface can be achieved by optimizing the radii of the parasitic rings. To further enhance the uniformity of the electric field, the input phase of each Vivaldi radiator is adjusted by applying different transmission line lengths to the Vivaldi radiators depending on their positions in the array. To verify the feasibility of the proposed antenna, the electric field distributions are measured in an electromagnetic anechoic chamber. The results demonstrate that the proposed feed array antenna can achieve uniform near-field distribution with an average of 1.7 dB and a deviation of 6.8 dB on the virtual target surface placed within half a wavelength from the antenna aperture.
Lightweight Robust Image Classifier Using Non-Overlapping Image Compression Filters
Authors: Wang Mingde , Liu Zhijing
Published: September 2024

Machine learning systems, particularly in the domain of image recognition, are susceptible to adversarial perturbations applied to input data. These perturbations, while imperceptible to humans, have the capacity to easily deceive deep learning classifiers. Current defense methods for image recognition focus on using diffusion models and their variants. Due to the depth of diffusion models and the large amount of computations generated during each inference process, the GPU and storage performance of the device are extremely high. To address this problem, we propose a new defense-based non-overlapping image compression filter for image recognition classifiers against adversarial attacks. This method inserts a non-overlapping image compression filter before the classifier to make the results of the classifier invariant under subtle changes in images. This method does not weaken the adversarial robustness of the model and can reduce the computational cost during the training process of the image classification model. In addition, our method can be easily integrated with existing image classification training frameworks with only some minor adjustments. We validate our results by performing a series of experiments under three different convolutional neural network architectures (VGG16, ResNet34, and Inception-ResNet-v2) and on different datasets (CIFAR10 and CIFAR100). The experimental results show that under the Inception-ResNet-v2 architecture, our method achieves an average accuracy of up to 81.15% on the CIFAR10 dataset, fully demonstrating its effectiveness in mitigating adversarial attacks. In addition, under the WRN-28-10 architecture, our method achieves not only 91.28% standard accuracy on the CIFAR10 dataset but also 76.46% average robust accuracy. The test experiment on the model training time consumption shows that our defense method has an advantage in time cost, proving that our defense method is a lightweight and efficient defense strategy.
Seismic Damage Assessment of Existing Planar Steel X- or V-Braced Frames Using the Hybrid “M and P” Technique
Authors: Makarios Triantafyllos , Bakalis Athanasios , Efthymiou Evangelos
Published: September 2024

The effectiveness of a hybrid technique for identifying seismic damage in planar, multistory, steel X- or V-braced frames is demonstrated here through an example of a six-story frame. This proposed technique, referred to as “M and P”, combines the instrumental monitoring (M) with pushover analysis (P). According to the methodology, the diagram of stepping eigenfrequencies of the frame in the inelastic region is initially plotted against seismic roof displacement. The fundamental natural frequency, detected through monitoring, is then utilized in this key diagram to reveal the inelastic roof displacement that corresponds to the damage state of the steel-braced frame. This displacement is subsequently used as the target in the pushover analysis, facilitating the identification of seismic damage within the existing steel-braced frame. Finally, the damage image is correlated with the damage stiffness matrix of the frame at the same inelastic roof displacement. The investigation results indicate that combining instrumental monitoring with pushover analysis using the eigenfrequencies curves established by the “M and P” technique allows for accurate identification of the seismic damage potential in existing damaged steel-braced frames. The “M and P” technique is a straightforward method for immediate damage assessment in steel structures after damage occurs, regardless of the cause.