bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tear Production, Intraocular Pressure, Ultrasound Biometric Features and Conjunctival Flora Identification in Clinically Normal Eyes of Two Italian Breeds of Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Authors: Nardi Samanta , Puccini Leoni Federico , Monticelli Viola , Ebani Valentina Virginia , Bertelloni Fabrizio , Marzoni Margherita , Mancianti Francesca , Citi Simonetta , Barsotti Giovanni
Published: October 2021

Given the abundance of chickens in Italy, it is important for veterinarians to know the normal state of chickens’ eyes in order to identify any ophthalmic pathological changes. The aim of this study was to determine the normal values of select ocular parameters and to evaluate conjunctival microflora in two Italian chicken breeds. Sixty-six healthy chickens underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, which included a phenol red thread test (PRTT) for the evaluation of tear production and the assessment of intraocular pressure by rebound tonometry. B-mode ultrasound biometric measurements and conjunctival microflora identification were also performed in twenty-seven chickens. Mean PRTT was 23.77 ± 2.99 mm/15 s in the Livorno breed and 19.95 ± 2.81 mm/15 s in the Siciliana breed. Mean intraocular pressure was 14.3 ± 1.17 mmHg in the Livorno breed and 14.06 ± 1.15 mmHg in the Siciliana breed. Reference ranges for morphometric parameters were reported in the two breeds. Twenty-three chickens (85.18%) were bacteriologically positive. Chlamydia spp. antigen was detected in 14.81% of chickens. No positive cultures were obtained for fungi. Normal reference range values for selected ophthalmic parameters were obtained in clinically healthy chickens, which could facilitate accurate diagnosis and better management of ophthalmic diseases in these animals.
Efficacy of a Synergistic Blend of Organic Acids and ß-1,4 Mannobiose on Cecal Salmonella Counts and Growth Performance in Salmonella Challenged Broiler Chickens: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: van Kuijk Sandra J. A. , Han Yanming
Published: October 2021

This study aimed at investigating the effect of a functional synergistic feed additive blend, containing organic acids and ß-1,4 mannobiose, on cecal Salmonella counts and growth performance of broiler chickens. A meta-analysis combining 13 individual studies, executed in Salmonella-challenged broilers comparing a control diet with and without the synergistic blend, was performed. Cecal Salmonella colonies and overall growth performance were measured. Raw data from all studies were combined and analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS, taking the within and between-study variation into account. In the first 14 days post-inoculation (DPI), cecal Salmonella was reduced by 0.429 log CFU/g (p = 0.011, n = 10 comparisons from five studies) when feeding the synergistic blend compared to the control group. During 15–34 DPI, the overall means were not different between treatments (0.069 log CFU/g; p = 0.519, n = 12 comparisons from eight studies). The feed conversion ratio was improved when feeding the synergistic blend compared to the control diet (1.474 vs. 1.482, respectively; p = 0.002). In conclusion, feeding a synergistic blend, containing organic acids and ß-1,4 mannobiose amongst other ingredients, reduced cecal Salmonella counts during the first 14 DPI and improved growth performance of Salmonella challenged broilers compared to a control diet.
Determination of the Minimum Infusion Rate of Alfaxalone Combined with Electroacupuncture in Goats
Authors: Liu Lingling , Abouelfetouh Mahmoud M. , Salah Eman , Sun Rui , Nan Sha , Ding Mingxing , Ding Yi
Published: October 2021

Total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) is increasingly used in companion animals. The effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on alfaxalone-based TIVA has not been previously reported in goats. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the minimum infusion rate (MIR) of alfaxalone required to prevent purposeful movement of the extremities in response to standardized noxious stimulation during its combination with EA in goats. Twelve clinically healthy goats weighing 18.5 ± 2 kg were randomly assigned to two groups (six goats/group). Alfaxalone alone (ALF group) and alfaxalone combined with EA (EA-ALF group). In the EA-ALF, alfaxalone was administered 30 min after EA stimulation. For induction of anesthesia, a bolus of alfaxalone was given at 3 mg/kg IV, and an infusion dose of 9.6 mg/kg/h was initially set for maintenance. The MIR of alfaxalone in both groups was determined by testing for responses to stimulation (clamping on a digit with Vulsellum forceps) at 10-min intervals after induction of anesthesia till the entire period of the experiment. Cardiopulmonary parameters and nociceptive threshold were measured throughout anesthesia. The median alfaxalone MIR was significantly lower in the EA-ALF group than the ALF group [9 (4.8–9.6) and 12 (11.4–18)], respectively; p = 0.0035). In the ALF group, goats anesthetized with MIR showed a significant increase in heart rate and cardiac output (p < 0.0001 and 0.0312, respectively), and decrease in respiratory rate (p < 0.0001), hemoglobin oxygen saturation (p = 0.0081), and rectal temperature (p = 0.0046) compared with those in the EA-ALF. Additionally, goats in the EA-ALF showed a higher nociceptive threshold than those in the ALF group (p < 0.0001). EA provided analgesia, reduced the MIR of alfaxalone-based IV anesthesia and thereby alleviated the adverse cardiorespiratory effects associated with alfaxalone anesthesia in goats.
The Assessment of a Multifactorial Score for the Adaptability Evaluation of Six Poultry Genotypes to the Organic System
Authors: Cartoni Mancinelli Alice , Mattioli Simona , Menchetti Laura , Dal Bosco Alessandro , Ciarelli Claudia , Guarino Amato Monica , Castellini Cesare
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to develop an adaptability score (AS) for chicken strains, which includes behavioral, plumage conditions, and body lesion indicators through a multifactorial approach. A total of 600 male chickens from 6 poultry genotypes—Ranger Classic (R1), Ranger Gold (R2), Rowan Ranger (R3), Hubbard Red JA (A), CY Gen 5 × JA87 (CY), and M22 × JA87 (M)—were reared under organic conditions, fed ad libitum, and individually weighed weekly to calculate the daily weight gain (DWG). The behavioral observations consisted of the explorative attitude (EA), recorded at 21 days, and the behavioral patterns (BPs) recorded the week before the slaughter. The AS was established by a principal component analysis, and the AS of these genotypes was compared. Moreover, the effect of DWG and genotype on the AS was evaluated by univariable and multivariable regression models. Although the DWG and genotype were strictly dependent, genotype was the most important factor affecting the AS. In fact, its effect was significant both in univariable (p < 0.001) and multivariable models (p < 0.001). Conversely, the DWG was significant only in the univariable and lost significance when the effect of genotype was introduced in the model.
The Impact of Differences in Surveillance Definitions of Hospital Acquired Urinary Tract Infections (HAUTI)
Authors: Levi Yossef , Ben-David Debby , Estrin Inna , Saadon Hodaya , Krocker Maya , Goldstein Lili , Klafter Dan , Zilberman-Itskovich Shani , Marchaim Dror
Published: October 2021

Hospital-acquired urinary tract infections (HAUTI) are common and most cases are related to catheters (CAUTI). HAUTI and CAUTI surveillance is mandatory in many countries as a measure to reduce the incidence of infections and appropriately direct the allocation of preventable resources. The surveillance criteria issued by the Israeli Ministry of Health (IMOH), differ somewhat from that of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Our study aims were to query and quantify the impact of these differences. In a retrospective cohort study conducted at Shamir Medical Center, for calendar year 2017, the surveillance criteria of both IMOH and CDC were applied on 644 patient-unique adults with “positive” urine cultures (per similar definitions). The incidence of HAUTI per IMOH was significantly higher compared to CDC (1.24/1000 vs. 1.02/1000 patient-days, p = 0.02), with no impact on hospitalization’s outcomes. The agreement rate between methods was high for CAUTI (92%), but much lower for all HAUTI (83%). The major error rate, i.e., patients diagnosed with HAUTI per IMOH but had no UTI per CDC, was 31%. To conclude, in order for surveillance to reflect the relative situation and direct allocation of preventable resources based on scientific literature, the process should be uniform worldwide.
Antimicrobial Profile of Actinomycin D Analogs Secreted by Egyptian Desert Streptomyces sp. DH7
Authors: Amin Dina H. , Sayed Hayam A. E. , Elissawy Ahmed M. , EL-Ghwas Dina E. , Singab Abdel Nasser B.
Published: October 2021

Egyptian deserts are an underexplored ecological niche, especially the Sinai Peninsula. In our recent study, we explored this extreme environment and shed light on the bioactive capabilities of desert Actinobacteria isolated from Sinai. Fifty desert Actinobacteria were isolated from the Sinai desert using mineral salt media, basal media, and starch casein media. The filtrate of Streptomyces sp. DH 7 displayed a high inhibitory effect against multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains. The 16S rDNA sequencing confirmed that isolate DH7 belongs to the genus Streptomyces. The NJ phylogenetic tree showed relatedness to the Streptomyces flavofuscus strain NRRL B-2594 and Streptomyces pratensis strain ch24. The minimum inhibitory concentrations against MRSA were 16 and 32 μg/μL. Chemical investigation of the ethyl acetate extract of Streptomyces sp. DH7 led to the isolation and purification of natural products 1–4. Structure elucidation of the purified compounds was performed using detailed spectroscopic analysis including 1 and 2D NMR, and ESI-MS spectrometry. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report for the isolation of compounds 1–4 from a natural source, while synthetic analogs were previously reported in the literature. Compounds 3–4 were identified as actinomycin D analogues and this is the first report for the production of actinomycin D analogs from the Sinai desert with an inhibitory effect against MRSA. We indorse further study for this analog that can develop enhanced antimicrobial activities. We confirm that the desert ecosystems in Egypt are rich sources of antibiotic-producing Actinobacteria.
Identification of Three Novel PmGRI1 Genomic Resistance Islands and One Multidrug Resistant Hybrid Structure of Tn7-like Transposon and PmGRI1 in Proteus mirabilis
Authors: Ma Boheng , Wang Xuechun , Lei Changwei , Tang Yizhi , He Juan , Gao Yufeng , Zhang Yu , Wang Hongning
Published: October 2021

The widespread use of antibiotics in large-scale livestock production has led to serious antibiotic resistance. Proteus mirabilis is an important pathogenic bacterium on large-scale farms. Chromosomally localized mobilizable genetic elements (genomic islands) and mobile genetic elements (Tn7-like transposons) play an important role in the acquisition and transmission of resistance genes by P. mirabilis. To study the prevalence and resistance characteristics of antibiotic-resistant genomic islands in P. mirabilis of animal origin in China, we performed whole genome sequencing of P. mirabilis isolated from large-scale pig and chicken farms. Three new variants of PmGRI1 (HN31, YN8, and YN9), and a hybrid structure (HN2p) formed by the multidrug-resistant Tn7-like-HN2p transposon and a genomic island PmGRI1-HN2p, were identified from P. mirabilis. All variants underwent homologous recombination mediated by insertion sequence IS26. A genomic rearrangement in the chromosome between the Tn7-like-HN2p transposon and PmGRI1-HN2p occurred in HN2p. The heterozygous structure contained various antimicrobial resistance genes, including three copies of fluoroquinolone resistance gene qnrA1 and 16S rRNA methylase gene rmtB, which are rarely found in P. mirabilis. Our results highlight the structural genetic diversity of genomic islands by characterizing the novel variants of PmGRI1 and enrich the research base of multidrug resistance genomic islands.
Protein Persulfidation in Plants: Function and Mechanism
Authors: Wang Peng , Fang Hua , Gao Rong , Liao Weibiao
Published: October 2021

As an endogenous gaseous transmitter, the function of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been extensively studied in plants. Once synthesized, H2S may be involved in almost all life processes of plants. Among them, a key route for H2S bioactivity occurs via protein persulfidation, in which process oxidizes cysteine thiol (R-SH) groups into persulfide (R-SSH) groups. This process is thought to underpin a myriad of cellular processes in plants linked to growth, development, stress responses, and phytohormone signaling. Multiple lines of emerging evidence suggest that this redox-based reversible post-translational modification can not only serve as a protective mechanism for H2S in oxidative stress, but also control a variety of biochemical processes through the allosteric effect of proteins. Here, we collate emerging evidence showing that H2S-mediated persulfidation modification involves some important biochemical processes such as growth and development, oxidative stress, phytohormone and autophagy. Additionally, the interaction between persulfidation and S-nitrosylation is also discussed. In this work, we provide beneficial clues for further exploration of the molecular mechanism and function of protein persulfidation in plants in the future.
Applying Wearable Technology and a Deep Learning Model to Predict Occupational Physical Activities
Authors: Yan Yishu , Fan Hao , Li Yibin , Hoeglinger Elias , Wiesinger Alexander , Barr Alan , O’Connell Grace D. , Harris-Adamson Carisa
Published: October 2021

Many workers who engage in manual material handling (MMH) jobs experience high physical demands that are associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Quantifying the physical demands of a job is important for identifying high risk jobs and is a legal requirement in the United States for hiring and return to work following injury. Currently, most physical demand analyses (PDAs) are performed by experts using observational and semi-quantitative methods. The lack of accuracy and reliability of these methods can be problematic, particularly when identifying restrictions during the return-to-work process. Further, when a worker does return-to-work on modified duty, there is no way to track compliance to work restrictions conflating the effectiveness of the work restrictions versus adherence to them. To address this, we applied a deep learning model to data from eight inertial measurement units (IMUs) to predict 15 occupational physical activities. Overall, a 95% accuracy was reached for predicting isolated occupational physical activities. However, when applied to more complex tasks that combined occupational physical activities (OPAs), accuracy varied widely (0–95%). More work is needed to accurately predict OPAs when combined into simulated work tasks.
Protective Effects of Annatto Tocotrienol and Palm Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction on Chondrocytes Exposed to Monosodium Iodoacetate
Authors: Pang Kok-Lun , Ghafar Norzana Abd , Soelaiman Ima Nirwana , Chin Kok-Yong
Published: October 2021

Background: This study aimed to compare the chondroprotective efficacy and mechanism of annatto tocotrienol (AnTT) and palm tocotrienol-rich fraction (PT3) using SW1353 chondrocytes treated with monosodium iodoacetate (MIA). Methods: The chondrocytes were incubated with AnTT or PT3 in advance or concurrently with MIA for 24 h. The viability of the cells was tested with an MTT assay. The 8-isoprostane F2-α, extracellular matrix proteins, metalloproteinase and sex-determining region Y box protein 9 (SOX9) levels were determined using immunoassays. Results: AnTT and PT3 reversed an MIA-induced decrease in chondrocyte viability when incubated together with MIA (p < 0.05). Prior incubation with both mixtures did not produce the same effects. AnTT and PT3 cotreatment could suppress 8-isoprostane F2-α level in chondrocytes exposed to MIA (p < 0.01). Co-exposure to tocotrienols and MIA increased the type II collagen/type I collagen ratio in chondrocytes (p < 0.01). In addition, the co-exposure of AnTT and MIA for 24 h significantly upregulated SOX9, type II collagen and aggrecan levels (p < 0.05), which was not observed with co-exposure of PT3 and MIA, AnTT or PT3 exposure alone. Conclusion: AnTT and PT3 could prevent a reduction in chondrocyte viability following MIA exposure by reducing oxidative stress. In addition, AnTT might induce self-repair and anabolic activities in chondrocytes challenged with MIA.
Measuring Avalanche Properties on RC4 Stream Cipher Variants
Authors: Madarro-Capó  Evaristo José , Legón-Pérez  Carlos Miguel , Rojas Omar , Sosa-Gómez Guillermo
Published: October 2021

In the last three decades, the RC4 has been the most cited stream cipher, due to a large amount of research carried out on its operation. In this sense, dissimilar works have been presented on its performance, security, and usability. One of the distinguishing features that stand out the most is the sheer number of RC4 variants proposed. Recently, a weakness has been reported regarding the existence of statistical dependence between the inputs and outputs of the RC4, based on the use of the strict avalanche criterion and the bit independence criterion. This work analyzes the influence of this weakness in some of its variants concerning RC4. The five best-known variants of RC4 were compared experimentally and classified into two groups according to the presence or absence of such a weakness.
Durability and Abrasion Resistance of Innovative Recycled Pervious Concrete with Recycled Coarse Aggregate of Different Quality under Sulfate Attack
Authors: Hua Minqi , Chen Bo , Liu Yun , Liu Hui , Zhu Pinghua , Chen Chunhong , Wang Xinjie
Published: October 2021

Construction and demolition wastes (C&DWs) have raised a large number of ecological and environmental problems. Recycling C&DWs into arecycled concrete aggregate (RCA) will help save natural resources effectively and reduce the negative impact of C&DW on the environment. Innovative pervious concrete (IPC) can mitigate extreme weather disasters, such as rainstorms, and overcome the low strength and poor durability of traditional pervious concrete. In this study, innovative recycled pervious concrete (IRPC) is prepared by combining RCA with IPC, which has broad application prospects and ecological friendliness. This study investigates the effect of RCA quality grades and replacement rates on the mechanical property, permeability, sulfate resistance and abrasion resistance of IRPC. IRPC mixtures were prepared with three different quality grades (high, medium and low qualities) of aggregates named as NA, RCA1 and RCA2. Moreover, the replacement rate of RCA for NA varied as 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. The IRPC specimens were tested for compressive strength, mass loss and abrasion resistance after different sulfate wetting-drying cycles of 0, 30 and 60. The results exhibited that the initial compressive strength of all types of IRPC was more than 40 MPa. The compressive strength and mass of most IRPC increased first and then decreased slightly with the passage of a number of sulfate wetting-drying cycles, indicating IRPC has good resistance to sulfate attack. Sulfate attack and the addition of RCA will reduce the abrasion resistance of IRPC. However, when the replacement rate is lower than 50%, and the RCA quality is better (attached mortar content < 25%), the abrasion resistance of IRPC will be improved under sulfate attack. The experimental results might be useful as a reference and design methodology for employing IRPC in pavement applications in the future.
Converting Biomedical Text Annotated Resources into FAIR Research Objects with an Open Science Platform
Authors: Kanterakis Alexandros , Kanakaris Nikos , Koutoulakis Manos , Pitianou Konstantina , Karacapilidis Nikos , Koumakis Lefteris , Potamias George
Published: October 2021

Today, there are excellent resources for the semantic annotation of biomedical text. These resources span from ontologies, tools for NLP, annotators, and web services. Most of these are available either in the form of open source components (i.e., MetaMap) or as web services that offer free access (i.e., Whatizit). In order to use these resources in automatic text annotation pipelines, researchers face significant technical challenges. For open-source tools, the challenges include the setting up of the computational environment, the resolution of dependencies, as well as the compilation and installation of the software. For web services, the challenge is implementing clients to undertake communication with the respective web APIs. Even resources that are available as Docker containers (i.e., NCBO annotator) require significant technical skills for installation and setup. This work deals with the task of creating ready-to-install and run Research Objects (ROs) for a large collection of components in biomedical text analysis. These components include (a) tools such as cTAKES, NOBLE Coder, MetaMap, NCBO annotator, BeCAS, and Neji; (b) ontologies from BioPortal, NCBI BioSystems, and Open Biomedical Ontologies; and (c) text corpora such as BC4GO, Mantra Gold Standard Corpus, and the COVID-19 Open Research Dataset. We make these resources available in OpenBio.eu, an open-science RO repository and workflow management system. All ROs can be searched, shared, edited, downloaded, commented on, and rated. We also demonstrate how one can easily connect these ROs to form a large variety of text annotation pipelines.
A Theoretical Analysis of Magnetic Particle Alignment in External Magnetic Fields Affected by Viscosity and Brownian Motion
Authors: Krafcik Andrej , Babinec Peter , Strbak Oliver , Frollo Ivan
Published: October 2021

The interaction of an external magnetic field with magnetic objects affects their response and is a fundamental property for many biomedical applications, including magnetic resonance and particle imaging, electromagnetic hyperthermia, and magnetic targeting and separation. Magnetic alignment and relaxation are widely studied in the context of these applications. In this study, we theoretically investigate the alignment dynamics of a rotational magnetic particle as an inverse process to Brownian relaxation. The selected external magnetic flux density ranges from 5μT to 5T. We found that the viscous torque for arbitrary rotating particles with a history term due to the inertia and friction of the surrounding ambient water has a significant effect in strong magnetic fields (range 1–5T). In this range, oscillatory behavior due to the inertial torque of the particle also occurs, and the stochastic Brownian torque diminishes. In contrast, for weak fields (range 5–50μT), the history term of the viscous torque and the inertial torque can be neglected, and the stochastic Brownian torque induced by random collisions of the surrounding fluid molecules becomes dominant. These results contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of magnetic particle alignment in external magnetic fields and have important implications in a variety of biomedical applications.
Application of Anti-Moisture Technologies in Historical Constructions from the Perspective of Sustainability
Authors: Šťastný Patrik , Gašparík Jozef , Makýš Oto , Chamulová Barbara , Szalayová Sylvia
Published: October 2021

Restoration of landmarks hit by rising moisture is in conjunction with the concept of sustainability by a very current theme. This problem needs to be addressed from a global point of view. The article discusses individual remediation technologies (invasive and non-invasive), which were applied and long-term investigated on several historical buildings within Slovakia. It describes the costs of their implementation, efficiency rate and importance from the perspective of the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage and from the perspective of sustainability and the possibility of using these objects. From the perspective of sustainability, it is also shown that some interventions helped with remediation of the moist structure. This step results in a positive impact on the surroundings and protection of persons located in the vicinity of these buildings. It also helps to sustainability in terms of an environmental point of view because the demolition of renewed buildings is not necessary. The Article conclusion notes the level of efficiency of individual technologies. It also provides recommendations that could also be applied to many other historic buildings.
Short-Term Effects of the Repeated Exposure to Trip-like Perturbations on Inter-Segment Coordination during Walking: An UCM Analysis
Authors: Monaco Vito , Zabban Clara , Miyake Tamon
Published: October 2021

The minimum toe clearance (MTC) results from the coordination of all bilateral lower limb body segments, i.e., a redundant kinematic chain. We tested the hypothesis that repeated exposure to trip-like perturbations induces a more effective covariation of limb segments during steady walking, in accordance with the uncontrolled manifold (UCM) theory, to minimize the MTC across strides. Twelve healthy young adults (mean age 26.2 ± 3.3 years) were enrolled. The experimental protocol consisted of three identical trials, each involving three phases carried outin succession: steady walking (baseline), managing trip-like perturbations, and steady walking (post-perturbation). Lower limb kinematics collected during both steady walking phases wereanalyzed in the framework of the UCM theory to test the hypothesis that the reduced MTC variability following the perturbation can occur, in conjunction with more effective organization of the redundant lower limb segments. Results revealed that, after the perturbation, the synergy underlying lower limb coordination becomes stronger. Accordingly, the short-term effects of the repeated exposure to perturbations modify the organization of the redundant lower limb-related movements. In addition, results confirm that the UCM theory is a promising tool for exploring the effectiveness of interventions aimed at purposely modifying motor behaviors.
Evaluating the Intertwined Relationships of the Drivers for University Technology Transfer
Authors: Sun Chia-Chi
Published: October 2021

Universities are the best places to gather knowledge and innovation, but the basis of technological development lies in talented R&D personnel who provide services to enterprise R&D activities, research institutions, and universities. Universities also gather many elites who cultivate talent for the country. However, universities do not have adequate technology transfer experience and do not network in industrial circles, which results in a huge gap between the concept and the practical result. This research determined the critical success factors and explored the causal relationships influencing the technology transfer from universities. We found that the main impact of the key factors was the technology market dimension. University technology transfer activities had to be classified as top priority. Technology industrial applicability was the main key evaluation factor, along with inventor attitude. In the organizational culture dimension, the attitude and ability of top management were the main evaluation factors. We attempted to draw upon our analysis results to make recommendations related to technology transfer to assist universities in successfully transferring their research results.
Fast Performance Modeling across Different Database Versions Using Partitioned Co-Kriging
Authors: Cao Rong , Bao Liang , Wei Shouxin , Duan Jiarui , Wu Xi , Du Yeye , Sun Ren
Published: October 2021

Database systems have a large number of configuration parameters that control functional and non-functional properties (e.g., performance and cost). Different configurations may lead to different performance values. To understand and predict the effect of configuration parameters on system performance, several learning-based strategies have been recently proposed. However, existing approaches usually assume a fixed database version such that learning has to be repeated once the database version changes. Repeating measurement and learning for each version is expensive and often practically infeasible. Instead, we propose the Partitioned Co-Kriging (PCK) approach that transfers knowledge from an older database version (source domain) to learn a reliable performance prediction model fast for a newer database version (target domain). Our method is based on the key observations that performance responses typically exhibit similarities across different database versions. We conducted extensive experiments under 5 different database systems with different versions to demonstrate the superiority of PCK. Experimental results show that PCK outperforms six state-of-the-art baseline algorithms in terms of prediction accuracy and measurement effort.
Forecasting Taxi Demands Using Generative Adversarial Networks with Multi-Source Data
Authors: Naji Hasan A. H. , Xue Qingji , Zhu Huijun , Li Tianfeng
Published: October 2021

As a popular transportation mode in urban regions, taxis play an essential role in providing comfortable and convenient services for travelers. For the sake of tackling the imbalance between supply and demand, taxi demand forecasting can help drivers plan their routes and reduce waiting time and oil pollution. This paper proposes a deep learning-based model for taxi demand forecasting with multi-source data using Generative Adversarial Networks. Firstly, main features were extracted from multi-source data, including GPS taxi data, road network data, weather data, and points of interest. Secondly, Generative Adversarial Network, comprised of the recurrent network model and the conventional network model, is adopted for fine-grained taxi demand forecasting. A comprehensive experiment is conducted based on a real-world dataset of the city of Wuhan, China. The experimental results showed that our model outperforms state-of-the-art prediction methods and validates the usefulness of our model. This paper provides insights into the temporal, spatial, and external factors in taxi demand-supply equilibrium based on the results. The findings can help policymakers alter the taxi supply and the taxi lease rents for periods and increase taxi profit.
Thin Film Gas Sensors Based on Planetary Ball-Milled Zinc Oxide Nanoinks: Effect of Milling Parameters on Sensing Performance
Authors: Sapkota Raju , Duan Pengjun , Kumar Tanay , Venkataraman Anusha , Papadopoulos Chris
Published: October 2021

Planetary ball-milled zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle suspensions (nanoinks) were used to produce thin film chemiresistive gas sensors that operate at room temperature. By varying milling or grinding parameters (speed, time, and solvent) different thin film gas sensors with tunable particle sizes and porosity were fabricated and tested with dry air/oxygen against hydrogen, argon, and methane target species, in addition to relative humidity, under ambient light conditions. Grinding speeds of up to 1000 rpm produced particle sizes and RMS thin film roughness below 100 nm, as measured by atomic force and scanning electron microscopy. Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and X-ray analysis confirmed the purity and structure of the resulting ZnO nanoparticles. Gas sensor response at room temperature was found to peak for nanoinks milled at 400 rpm and for 30 min in ethylene glycol and deionized water, which could be correlated to an increased film porosity and enhanced variation in electron concentration resulting from adsorption/desorption of oxygen ions on the surfaces of ZnO nanoparticles. Sensor response and dynamic behavior was found to improve as the temperature was increased, peaking between 100 and 150 °C. This work demonstrates the use of low-cost PBM nanoinks as the active materials for solution-processed thin film gas/humidity sensors for use in environmental, medical, food packaging, laboratory, and industrial applications.
Renal Ultrasound Elastography: A Review of the Previous Reports on Chronic Kidney Diseases
Authors: Iyama Takuji , Sugihara Takaaki , Takata Tomoaki , Isomoto Hajime
Published: October 2021

The early detection of a kidney injury is essential to protect against the progression of kidney damage owing to the progressive nature of chronic kidney disease. A renal biopsy is the gold standard for the assessment of pathological alterations such as interstitial fibrosis and glomerulosclerosis. However, there are concerns regarding potential complications including bleeding and a reduction in renal function. Ultrasound elastography is an ideal modality for assessing the alterations in various organs and diagnosing malignant tumors. This technique has the potential to help detect early changes in renal function and pathological alterations. However, the careful application and interpretation of this technique in the kidney is required because of its complex hemodynamics and architecture. Shear wave elastography is the most widely investigated technique among ultrasound elastography. This review aims to summarize the previous investigations of the kidney using shear wave elastography, particularly for renal malignancy, kidney transplantation, and chronic kidney disease. Additionally, we have highlighted the influencing factors concerning the practical measurement of renal elasticity.
Cortisol Reactivity to a Digital Version of Trier Social Stress Test and Eating Behavior in Non-Overweight and Overweight Adolescents: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gotca Ioan , Druica Andrada , Timofte Daniel V. , Preda Cristina , Anton-Paduraru Dana-Teodora , Ghiciuc Cristina Mihaela , Ungureanu Maria Christina , Leustean Letitia , Mocanu Veronica
Published: October 2021

(1) Background: In the present pilot study, we examined the response of cortisol to a digital version of the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and corresponding eating preferences in non-overweight and overweight adolescents. (2) Methods: The experimental study group included 35 adolescents aged 15.7 ± 0.5 years (16 boys and 19 girls). The participants were split into two groups: non-overweight (N = 24) and overweight (N = 11), according to the Body Mass Index (BMI). We induced acute stress in all participants, using a digital version of the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), with three different digital tasks. We measured salivary cortisol before the test (T0), during the stress induction by digital tasks (T5, T10, T15), and 25 min after the stress test (T40). The Health Behavior in School-Aged Children Questionnaire (HBSC) was administered to assess the influence of stress on eating behavior: the consumption of fruit, vegetables, sweets, and soft drinks and the frequency of snacks. (3) Results: Among the entire group of adolescents, we observed a significant difference between the sexes in terms of cortisol response, girls being predominantly hyperreactive (13 girls compared to 5 boys, p = 0.03). In overweight adolescents, the cortisol reactivity was lower in boys and higher in girls (p = 0.05). The overweight hyperreactive adolescents, as compared to the hyporeactive ones, had a higher frequency of daily consumption of sweets (25% vs. 0%) and soft drink (25% vs. 0). (4) Conclusions: The individual patterns of cortisol reactivity to laboratory-induced stress could be associated with an increased risk of unhealthy eating behavior in adolescents.
Multiple-Criteria Decision Analysis Using TOPSIS: Sustainable Approach to Technical and Economic Evaluation of Rocks for Lining Canals
Authors: Ali Mahrous A. M. , Kim Jong-Gwan , Awadallah Zakaria H. , Abdo Ahmed M. , Hassan Abbas M.
Published: October 2021

One of the crucial projects underway in Egypt is the lining of watercourses to withstand the outflow of water through their beds and flanks. Various materials have been used in this project, including limestone, sandstone, basalt, and dolomite, along with other building materials. This study focused on the evaluation of rock characteristics to determine their suitability for the construction of a canal lining. All rock characteristics should be classified in terms of technical and economic concerns related to mining rock specifications, such as mechanical and physical properties, and evaluated according to their weights and ratings. As a rule of decision making, management stakeholders select the rock types. The primary purpose of canal linings is to reduce water loss due to seepage. Methodologically, we adopted the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), and derived an improved TOPSIS method based on experimental testing. This study attempted the first application of TOPSIS to canal linings and relevant construction materials. The analysis shows that limestone L1 is the best rock-building material for canal linings in Upper Egypt. Limestone L1 has the shortest geometric distance from the positive ideal solution and the longest geometric distance from the negative ideal solution. The results provide decision makers with strategic indicators to select among different rock types based on the total points assigned to all rock specifications.
Three-Dimensional Modeling and 3D Printing of Biocompatible Orthodontic Power-Arm Design with Clinical Application
Authors: Thurzo Andrej , Kočiš Filip , Novák Bohuslav , Czako Ladislav , Varga Ivan
Published: October 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) printing with biocompatible resins offers new competition to its opposition—subtractive manufacturing, which currently dominates in dentistry. Removing dental material layer-by-layer with lathes, mills or grinders faces its limits when it comes to the fabrication of detailed complex structures. The aim of this original research was to design, materialize and clinically evaluate a functional and resilient shape of the orthodontic power-arm by means of biocompatible 3D printing. To improve power-arm resiliency, we have employed finite element modelling and analyzed stress distribution to improve the original design of the power-arm. After 3D printing, we have also evaluated both designs clinically. This multidisciplinary approach is described in this paper as a feasible workflow that might inspire application other individualized biomechanical appliances in orthodontics. The design is a biocompatible power-arm, a miniature device bonded to a tooth surface, translating significant bio-mechanical force vectors to move a tooth in the bone. Its design must be also resilient and fully individualized to patient oral anatomy. Clinical evaluation of the debonding rate in 50 randomized clinical applications for each power-arm-variant showed significantly less debonding incidents in the improved power-arm design (two failures = 4%) than in the original variant (nine failures = 18%).
Analysis of the Water Quality Characteristics of Urban Streams Using the Flow–Pollutant Loading Relationship and a Load Duration Curve (LDC)
Authors: Jang Ji-Yun , Kim Dae-Woong , Choi Ye-Ji , Jang Dong-Woo
Published: October 2021

For urban streams, wastewater inflow makes water quality management difficult. This study attempted to analyze the water quality characteristics and pollution sources for the efficient management of water quality in the upper, middle, and lower Gul-po stream reaches. The water quality and flow characteristics for each point were analyzed using five-year water quality and flow discharge data at Gul-po stream from 2016 to 2020. The results showed that the flow increased and the water quality improved in the upper part of the stream, under the influence of a treated water discharge. The flow–pollutant loading equation revealed that the flow coefficient (slope of the regression equation) values of the water quality characteristics, except T-N, were lower than 1 in the upper part, indicating that the water quality decreased as the flow increased. In the middle and lower parts, the flow index values of the water quality characteristics, except T-N, were greater than 1, indicating that the water quality increased with the flow. For the middle and lower parts, the overage rate of target water quality by the Ministry of Environment was high for high-flow discharge sections, indicating the significant influence of nonpoint pollution sources. These results show that it is necessary to consider different pollution sources at each point for urban stream quality management.
Robust Static Structural System Identification Using Rotations
Authors: Lei Jun , Lozano-Galant José Antonio , Xu Dong , Zhang Feng-Liang , Turmo Jose
Published: October 2021

Deflections are commonly measured in the static structural system identification of structures. Comparatively less attention has been paid to the possibility of measuring rotations for structural system identification purposes, despite the many advantages of using inclinometers, such as a high resolution and being reference free. Although some work using rotations can be found in the literature, this paper, for the very first time, proposes a statistical analysis that justifies the theoretical advantage of measuring rotations. The analytical expressions for the target parameters are obtained via static structural system identification using the constrained observability method first. Combined with the inverse distribution theory, the probability density function of the estimations of the target parameters can be obtained. Comparative studies on a simply supported bridge and a frame structure demonstrate the advantage of measuring rotations regarding the unbiasedness and the extent of variation in the estimations. To achieve robust parameter estimations, four strategies to use redundant rotations are proposed and compared. Numerical verifications on a bridge structure and a high-rise building have shown promising results.
Properties of Fibre-Reinforced High-Strength Concrete with Nano-Silica and Silica Fume
Authors: Karimipour Arash , Ghalehnovi Mansour , Edalati Mahmoud , de Brito Jorge
Published: October 2021

This study intends to assess the influence of steel fibres (SF) and polypropylene fibres (PPF) on the hardened and fresh state properties of high-strength concrete (HSC). For this purpose, 99 concrete mixes were designed and applied. SF and PPF were used at six-volume replacement contents of 0%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% and 0.5%. Moreover, nano-silica (NS) was used at three contents, 0%, 1% and 2%, and silica fume powder (SP) was also used at three weight ratios (0%, 5% and 10%). The slump, compressive and tensile strength, elasticity modulus, water absorption and the electric resistivity of concrete specimens were examined. The results showed that using 1% NS and 10% SP together with 0.5% PPF improved the compressive strength of HSC by about 123%; however, the effect of SF on tensile strength is more significant and adding 0.5% SF with both 2% NS and 10% SP increased the tensile strength by 104%. Moreover, increasing the SF content reduces the electric resistivity while using PPF improves this property especially when 1% NS was employed, and it was enhanced by about 68% when 0.5% SF and 1% NS were utilized with 10% SP.
The Role of Graphene Monolayers in Enhancing the Yield of Bacteriorhodopsin Photostates for Optical Memory Applications
Authors: Patel Roma , Salamone Gregory , Macwan Isaac
Published: October 2021

Bacteriorhodopsin (bR) is a photoactive protein that has gained increasing importance as a tool for optical memory storage due to its remarkable photochemical and thermal stability. The two stable photostates (bR and Q) obtained during the bR photocycle are appropriate to designate the binary bit 0 and 1, respectively. Such devices, however, have limited success due to a low quantum yield of the Q state. Many studies have used genetic and chemical modification as optimization strategies to increase the yield of the Q state. Nonetheless, this compromises the overall photochemical stability of bR. This paper introduces a unique way of stabilizing the conformations of bacteriorhodopsin and, thereby, the bR and Q photostates through adsorption onto graphene. All-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with NAMD and CHARMM force fields have been used here to understand the interactive events at the interface of the retinal chromophore within bR and a single-layer graphene sheet. Based on the stable RMSD (~4.5 Å), secondary structure, interactive van der Waals energies (~3000 kcal/mol) and electrostatic energies (~2000 kcal/mol), it is found that the adsorption of bR onto graphene can stabilize its photochemical behavior. Furthermore, the optimal adsorption distance for bR is found to be ~4.25 Å from the surface of graphene, which is regulated by a number of interfacial water molecules and their hydrogen bonds. The conformations of the key amino acids around the retinal chromophore that are responsible for the proton transport are also found to be dependent on the adsorption of bR onto graphene. The quantity and lifetime of the salt bridges also indicate that more salt bridges were formed in the absence of graphene, whereas more were broken in the presence of it due to conformational changes. Finally, the analysis on the retinal dihedrals (C11 = C12-C13 = C14, C12-C13 = C14-C15, C13 = C14-C15 = NZ and C14-C15 = NZ-CE) show that bacteriorhodopsin in the presence of graphene exhibits increased stability and larger dihedral energy values.
Engineering Properties of New-Age (Nano) Modified Emulsion (NME) Stabilised Naturally Available Granular Road Pavement Materials Explained Using Basic Chemistry
Authors: Jordaan Gerrit J. , Steyn Wynand J. vdM.
Published: October 2021

Nanoscale organofunctional silanes have been developed, tested and successfully applied to protect stone buildings in Europe against climatic effects since the 1860s. The same nanotechnologies can also be used in pavement engineering to create strong chemical bonds between a stabilising agent and granular material. The attachment of the organofunctional silane to a material also changes the surface of the material to become hydrophobic, thereby considerably reducing future chemical weathering. These properties allow naturally available materials to be used in any pavement layer at a low risk. In the built environment, scientists soon determined that the successful use of an organo-silane depends on the type and condition of the stone to be treated. The same principles apply to the implementation of applicable nanotechnologies in pavement engineering. Understanding the basic chemistry, determining the properties of the stabilising agent and the organofunctional modifying agent and the chemical interaction with the primary and secondary minerals of the material are essential for the successful application of these technologies in pavement engineering. This paper explains some basic chemistry, which fundamentally influences engineering outputs that can be achieved using New-age (Nano) Modified Emulsions (NME) stabilising agents with naturally available granular materials in all road pavement layers below the surfacing.