bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Landscape of Relaxation and Interaction of an Amino Acid, Glutamine (L), on Pristine and Au/Ag/Cu-Doped TiO2 Surfaces
Authors: Jovanović Dušica , Schön Johann Christian , Zagorac Dejan , Zarubica Aleksandra , Matović Branko , Zagorac Jelena
Published: October 2023

Studying the interaction of inorganic systems with organic ones is a highly important avenue for finding new drugs and treatment methods. Tumor cells show an increased demand for amino acids due to their rapid proliferation; thus, targeting their metabolism is becoming a potential oncological therapeutic strategy. One of the inorganic materials that show antitumor properties is titanium dioxide, while its doping was found to enhance interactions with biological systems. Thus, in this study, we investigated the energy landscape of glutamine (L), an amino acid, on pristine and doped TiO2 surfaces. We first locally optimized 2D-slab structures of pristine and Au/Ag/Cu-doped anatase (001 and 101 surfaces) and similarly optimized a single molecule of glutamine in vacuum. Next, we placed the pre-optimized glutamine molecule in various orientations and on a variety of locations onto the relaxed substrate surfaces (in vacuum) and performed ab initio relaxations of the molecule on the substrate slabs. We employed the DFT method with a GGA-PBE functional implemented in the Quantum Espresso code. Comparisons of the optimized conformations and electronic structures of the amino acid in vacuum and on the surfaces yield useful insights into various biological processes.
Inverse Modulation of Aurora Kinase A and Topoisomerase IIα in Normal and Tumor Breast Cells upon Knockdown of Mitochondrial ASncmtRNA
Authors: Bendek Maximiliano F. , Fitzpatrick Christopher , Jeldes Emanuel , Boland Anne , Deleuze Jean-François , Farfán Nicole , Villegas Jaime , Nardocci Gino , Montecino Martín , Burzio Luis O. , Burzio Verónica A.
Published: October 2023

Breast cancer is currently the most diagnosed form of cancer and the leading cause of death by cancer among females worldwide. We described the family of long non-coding mitochondrial RNAs (ncmtRNAs), comprised of sense (SncmtRNA) and antisense (ASncmtRNA) members. Knockdown of ASncmtRNAs using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) induces proliferative arrest and apoptotic death of tumor cells, but not normal cells, from various tissue origins. In order to study the mechanisms underlying this selectivity, in this study we performed RNAseq in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells transfected with ASncmtRNA-specific ASO or control-ASO, or left untransfected. Bioinformatic analysis yielded several differentially expressed cell-cycle-related genes, from which we selected Aurora kinase A (AURKA) and topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A) for RT-qPCR and western blot validation in MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 breast cancer cells, as well as normal breast epithelial cells (HMEC). We observed no clear differences regarding mRNA levels but both proteins were downregulated in tumor cells and upregulated in normal cells. Since these proteins play a role in genomic integrity, this inverse effect of ASncmtRNA knockdown could account for tumor cell downfall whilst protecting normal cells, suggesting this approach could be used for genomic protection under cancer treatment regimens or other scenarios.
Deterioration of Cough, Respiratory, and Vocal Cord Functions in Patients with Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Asakawa Takashi , Ogino Mieko , Tominaga Naomi , Ozaki Naoto , Kubo Jin , Kakuda Wataru
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to clarify changes in cough function in patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA). Seventeen probable patients with MSA were studied. Peak cough flow (PCF), respiratory function (percentage of vital capacity, percentage of forced vital capacity, and percentage of predicted forced expiratory volume in one second), respiratory muscle strength (percentage of maximal inspiratory mouth pressure and percentage of maximal expiratory mouth pressure), and maximum phonation time (MPT) were assessed. Walking ability, disease duration, possibility of air stacking, Unified MSA Rating Scale (UMSARS), and Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) Part III were also assessed. Data were separately analyzed for ambulatory and non-ambulatory groups categorized by Functional Ambulation Categories. PCF, respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, and MPT were significantly lower in the non-ambulatory group than in the ambulatory group. On the other hand, no correlation between PCF and disease duration was observed. A significant number of patients in the non-ambulatory group were unable to hold their breath. The UMSARS and MDS-UPDRS Part III in the non-ambulatory group were significantly higher than in the ambulatory group. It was concluded that ambulatory dysfunction is associated with the decline of cough function and respiratory-related function in patients with MSA.
Ex Vivo Colonic Fermentation of NUTRIOSE® Exerts Immuno-Modulatory Properties and Strong Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Authors: Perreau Caroline , Thabuis Clementine , Verstrepen Lynn , Ghyselinck Jonas , Marzorati Massimo
Published: October 2023

NUTRIOSE® (Roquette, Lestrem, France) is a resistant dextrin with well-established prebiotic effects. This study evaluated the indirect effects of pre-digested NUTRIOSE® on host immune response and gut barrier integrity. Fecal samples from eight healthy donors were inoculated in a Colon-on-a-plate® system (ProDigest, Ghent, Belgium) with or without NUTRIOSE® supplementation. Following 48 h fermentation, colonic suspensions were tested in a Caco-2/THP1-Blue™ co-culture system to determine their effects on gut barrier activity (transepithelial electrical resistance) and immune response following lipopolysaccharide stimulation. Additionally, changes in short-chain fatty acid levels (SCFA) and microbial community composition following a 48 h fermentation in the Colon-on-a-plate® system were measured. Across all donors, immune-mediated intestinal barrier damage was significantly reduced with NUTRIOSE®-supplemented colonic suspensions versus blank. Additionally, IL-6 and IL-10 levels were significantly increased, and the level of the neutrophil chemoattractant IL-8 was significantly decreased with NUTRIOSE®-supplemented colonic suspensions versus blank in the co-culture models following lipopolysaccharide stimulation. These beneficial effects of NUTRIOSE® supplementation were likely due to increased acetate and propionate levels and the enrichment of SCFA-producing bacteria. NUTRIOSE® was well fermented by the colonic bacteria of all eight donors and had protective effects on inflammation-induced disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier and strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Associations between Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Serum Uric Acid and Their Sex Differences: The Nagahama Study
Authors: Sunadome Hironobu , Murase Kimihiko , Tabara Yasuharu , Matsumoto Takeshi , Minami Takuma , Kanai Osamu , Nagasaki Tadao , Takahashi Naomi , Hamada Satoshi , Tanizawa Kiminobu , Togawa Jumpei , Uiji Sayaka , Wakamura Tomoko , Komenami Naoko , Setoh Kazuya , Kawaguchi Takahisa , Morita Satoshi , Takahashi Yoshimitsu , Nakayama Takeo , Hirai Toyohiro , Sato Susumu , Matsuda Fumihiko , Chin Kazuo
Published: October 2023

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is often accompanied by noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including gout. However, the association between serum uric acid (sUA) levels and NCDs is complicated in patients with SDB. We aimed to clarify this issue utilizing large-scale epidemiological data. This community-based study included 9850 inhabitants. SDB and its severity were assessed by a 3% oxygen desaturation index (3% ODI) corrected for sleep duration using wrist actigraphy. The associations between sUA and moderate to severe SDB (MS-SDB) and sUA and NCDs in patients with MS-SDB were analyzed. A total of 7895 subjects were eligible. In females, the prevalence of MS-SDB increased according to an elevation in sUA levels even after adjusting for confounders, and sUA ≥ 5 mg/dL was the threshold. These were not found in males. There was a positive interaction between sUA ≥ 5 mg/dL and female sex for MS-SDB. In females with MS-SDB, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) increased according to an elevation in sUA levels, and those with sUA ≥ 5 mg/dL showed a higher prevalence of DM than their counterparts. There is a clear correlation between sUA levels and the severity of SDB, and elevated sUA poses a risk for DM in females with MS-SDB.
The Effect of Nattokinase-Monascus Supplements on Dyslipidemia: A Four-Month Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Liu Xiaoming , Zeng Xuejiao , Mahe Jinli , Guo Kai , He Panpan , Yang Qianwen , Zhang Zhiwei , Li Zhongxia , Wang Di , Zhang Zheqing , Wang Lei , Jing Lipeng
Published: October 2023

Dyslipidemia, a condition implying high cardiovascular risks, has been widely studied on its potential nutrition interventions, including functional foods. This study aims to examine the effect of nattokinase monascus supplements (NMSs) on cardiovascular biomarkers and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in patients with dyslipidemia. A total of 113 eligible subjects were randomly assigned to receive either NMSs or a placebo (55 and 58, respectively). After a 120-day intervention, there were significant mean absolute changes in total cholesterol (TC), low-density cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high-density cholesterol (non-HDL-C), and low-density cholesterol to high-density cholesterol ratio (LDL-C to HDL-C ratio), with values of −0.52 (95% CI: −0.51 to −0.54) mmol/L, −0.43 (95% CI: −0.45 to −0.41) mmol/L, −0.52 (95% CI: −0.52 to −0.52) mmol/L, and −0.29 (95% CI: −0.30 to −0.28) mmol/L, respectively, between the two groups. However, no significant differences were found in triglycerides (TGs), high-density cholesterol (HDL-C), and CIMT. Furthermore, the results for lipids and CIMT remained essentially unchanged after adjusting for various confounding factors using the analysis of covariance model. There were no significant differences in coagulation, liver function, renal function, or other indicators. No intervention-related adverse events, such as mouth ulcers, drooling, and stomach pain, were reported. The study results demonstrate that NMSs can ameliorate lipid levels (TC, LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and the LDL-C to HDL-C ratio) without the occurrence of adverse events. However, it did not significantly affect serum TG, HDL-C, and CIMT.
Understanding the Thermal Degradation Mechanism of High-Temperature-Resistant Phthalonitrile Foam at Macroscopic and Molecular Levels
Authors: Yang Xulin , Li Yi , Lei Wenwu , Bai Zhongxiang , Zhan Yingqing , Li Ying , Li Kui , Wang Pan , Feng Wei , Liu Qi
Published: October 2023

Polymer foam, a special form of polymer, usually demonstrates some unexpected properties that rarely prevail in the bulky polymer. Studying the thermal degradation behavior of a specific polymer foam is important for its rational design, quick identification, objective evaluation, and industrial application. The present study aimed to discover the thermal degradation mechanism of high-temperature-resistant phthalonitrile (PN) foam under an inert gas atmosphere. The macroscopic thermal decomposition of PN foam was carried out at the cost of size/weight loss, resulting in an increasing number of open cells with pyrolyzation debris. Using the TGA/DTG/FTIR/MS technique, it was found that PN foam involves a three-stage thermal degradation mechanism: (I) releasing gases such as H2O, CO2, and NH3 generated from azo-containing intermediate decomposition and these trapped in the closed cells during the foaming process; (II) backbone decomposition from C-N, C-O, and C-C cleavage in the PN aliphatic chain with the generation of H2O, CO2, NH3, CO, CH4, RNH2, HCN, and aromatic gases; and (III) carbonization into a final N-hybrid graphite. The thermal degradation of PN foam was different from that of bulky PN resin. During the entire pyrolysis of PN foam, there was a gas superposition phenomenon since the release of the decomposition volatile was retarded by the closed cells in the PN foam. This research will contribute to the general understanding of the thermal degradation behavior of PN foam at the macroscopic and molecular levels and provide a reference for the identification, determination, and design of PN material.
A High-Generalizability Machine Learning Framework for Analyzing the Homogenized Properties of Short Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Zhao Yunmei , Chen Zhenyue , Jian Xiaobin
Published: October 2023

This study aims to develop a high-generalizability machine learning framework for predicting the homogenized mechanical properties of short fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The ensemble machine learning model (EML) employs a stacking algorithm using three base models of Extra Trees (ET), eXtreme Gradient Boosting machine (XGBoost), and Light Gradient Boosting machine (LGBM). A micromechanical model of a two-step homogenization algorithm is adopted and verified as an effective approach to composite modeling with randomly distributed fibers, which is integrated with finite element simulations for providing a high-quality ground-truth dataset. The model performance is thoroughly assessed for its accuracy, efficiency, interpretability, and generalizability. The results suggest that: (1) the EML model outperforms the base members on prediction accuracy, achieving R2 values of 0.988 and 0.952 on the train and test datasets, respectively; (2) the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis identifies the Young’s modulus of matrix, fiber, and fiber content as the top three factors influencing the homogenized properties, whereas the anisotropy is predominantly determined by the fiber orientations; (3) the EML model showcases good generalization capability on experimental data, and it has been shown to be more effective than high-fidelity computational models by significantly lowering computational costs while maintaining high accuracy.
Design and Optimization of Sugarcane Spiral Fertilizer Applicator Based on Response Surface Methodology and Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Peng Mingda , Zhang Zhigang , Zhang Wenyu , Huang Haixiang , Zhang Guocheng , Liu Wenkai , Wu Xinluo , Zhang Jiarui
Published: October 2023

To address the challenges of poor fluidity and low uniformity in conventional sugarcane fertilizer applicators, a novel dual-directional spiral fertilizer applicator has been developed. The working principle of the applicator is explained, and, after analyzing the agronomic requirements for sugarcane, the parameter range for key components of the applicator is determined. The spiral blade’s diameter, pitch, and rotational velocity are chosen as the experimental factors, with the average fertilizer discharge uniformity as the evaluation criterion. Virtual simulation experiments are conducted using the discrete element method and a quadratic regression orthogonal rotating combined design. Regression models for the evaluation criterion and various experimental factors are obtained. Additionally, a dataset created from these experiments was then used to construct an artificial neural network (ANN) prediction model. Response surface methodology (RSM) and the ANN were both used to analyze and predict the outcomes. The results indicate that the artificial neural network outperforms response surface methodology in terms of better fitting capability and higher prediction accuracy. The determination coefficient, mean squared error, and root mean square error are 0.99629, 0.99163, 0.07763, 0.17498, 0.27862, and 0.41831, respectively. When comparing the two models, the optimal parameter combination is determined to be a diameter of 90.1669 mm, a pitch of 59.7407 mm, and a rotational speed of 53.8944 r/min, resulting in an average fertilizer discharge uniformity of 92.0670%. An experiment with these parameters confirmed the simulated findings, revealing a maximum discrepancy of 2.4%. This study offers valuable insights into optimizing spiral fertilizer applicators.
Actinic Radiation, Viruses, Bacteria, the Open Air Factor (OAF) and Indoor Sterilization with UV-C Radiation
Authors: Tuck Adrian F.
Published: October 2023

Two issues embedded in air pollution research are considered to be the long-observed effect of outdoor exposure to sunlight having a germicidal effect—the Open Air Factor (OAF)—and the wavelength dependence and implications of the use of UV-C light indoors to achieve germicidal action. Suggestions are made about the mechanism of the OAF and about the possible emergence of resistant strains indoors.
Integrating Renewable-Based Solar Energy into Sustainable and Resilient Urban Furniture Coupled with a Logical Multi-Comparison Study of Cyprus and Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alotaibi Badr Saad , Khalifa Khaled Ramah Mohammed , Abuhussain Mohammed Awad , Dodo Yakubu Aminu , Alshenaifi Mohammad , Yahuza Mukhtar Sabiu , Algamadi Mohammed , Al-Tamimi Nedhal , Maghrabi Ammar , Abba Sani. I.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this research is to analyze and evaluate the urban furniture in the public space of Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park in Nicosia and compare it with a logical Saudi Arabian case study. As such, the focus is on sustainability and renewable energy sources, especially the application of solar energy technologies in urban furniture, in order to determine the feasibility of using sustainable energy to operate the park. A qualitative research approach was chosen, using both secondary and primary data, along with images from the park. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, and this applies to both primary and secondary data used in this study. This research used six types of urban furniture, which are lighting, public art, benches, trash cans, bike stands, and billboards. The study showed that only the lights are efficient in using solar energy in the garden, while the rest of the furniture does not have it. The study assesses the integration of solar energy technologies in urban furniture at Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park in Nicosia, contrasting it with a Saudi Arabian case. The study’s scope encompasses six urban furniture types, emphasizing sustainability. The findings suggest actionable insights for enhancing furniture to align with international sustainable development standards. Therefore, it was concluded that more efforts are needed to upgrade the urban furniture in Dr. Fazil Kucuk Park to meet international standards to achieve sustainable development.
Integration of Bayesian Adaptive Exponentially Weighted Moving Average Control Chart and Paired Ranked-Based Sampling for Enhanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Process Monitoring
Authors: Liu Botao , Noor-ul-Amin Muhammad , Khan Imad , Ismail Emad A. A. , Awwad Fuad A.
Published: October 2023

Exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) and Shewhart control charts are commonly utilized to detect the small to moderate and large shifts in the process mean, respectively. This article introduces a novel Bayesian AEWMA control chart that employs various loss functions (LFs), including square error loss function (SELF) and LINEX loss function (LLF). The control chart incorporates an informative prior for posterior and posterior predictive distributions. Additionally, the control chart utilizes various paired ranked set sampling (PRSS) schemes to improve its accuracy and effectiveness. The average run length (ARL) and standard deviation of run length (SDRL) are used to evaluate the performance of the suggested control chart. Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to compare the performance of the proposed approach to other control charts. The results show that the proposed method outperforms in identifying out-of-control signals, particularly under PRSS schemes compared to simple random sampling (SRS). The proposed CCs effectiveness was validated using a real-life semiconductor manufacturing application, utilizing different PRSS schemes. The performance of the Bayesian AEWMA CC was evaluated, demonstrating its superiority in detecting out-of-control signs compared to existing CCs. This study introduces an innovative method incorporating various LFs and PRSS schemes, providing an enhanced and efficient approach for identifying shifts in the process mean.
Special Issue on “Technologies for Production, Processing, and Extractions of Nature Product Compounds”
Authors: Crupi Pasquale
Published: October 2023

Natural bioactive compounds include a plethora of structures and functionalities providing a consistent pool of molecules to produce nutraceuticals, functional foods, and food additives [...]
Debunking Divine Command Theory
Authors: Van Eyghen Hans
Published: October 2023

The divine command theory holds that morality finds its origin in God or that God is somehow closely connected to morality. Many people across the world hold a related, though different belief that Religious belief is required for proper moral behavior. In this paper, I look at a number of evolutionary and cognitive explanations (supernatural punishment theory, big gods theory, moral dyad, and costly signaling) that purport to explain why people hold beliefs concerning a close connection between God and morality. I assess whether any of these theories provide a reason for epistemic concern.
Media, Religion, and the Public Sphere
Authors: Mihai Coman
Published: October 2023

In the present study, I undertake to show that the public sphere can be constructed within the frames of a discourse loaded with religious symbols, either as part of religious institutions and manifestations, or, in a more interesting case, through the media discourse. I want to show that media functions as a ritualizing agent, which builds symbolic spaces of action and thinking. Journalists accomplish this by presenting events as if they had pre-established and immutable order and meaning, set within a religious system. The ritualization of the journalistic performance and the mythologization of the representation of events are some of the strongest tools for promoting a representation of events in a language loaded with religious symbols and to outline a public sphere constructed in a religious frame. Thus, using a sacralizing language, media creates a religious public sphere, which function as a liminal, subjunctive framework: it is possible to assume that now a new type of public sphere, defined by a religious frame, is developed, in a social context and symbolical frame that are totally different to the usual circumstances of a religious experience.
Spatio-Temporal Dynamic of Disturbances in Planted and Natural Forests for the Saihanba Region of China
Authors: Tao Chienwei , Guo Tong , Shen Miaogen , Tang Yanhong
Published: October 2023

Various disturbances like extreme climate events, fires, and insect outbreak severely impact forest ecosystems, and differences are expected between planted and natural forests. However, there is little information on the spatio-temporal dynamics of the disturbances in terms of both forest types. In this study, we used the LandTrendr algorithm to detect disturbances in planted and natural forests in a temperate region of Northern China from 1985 to 2020 using Landsat and Sentinel 2 satellite data. The planted and natural forests suffered severe disturbances in 1994 in the south (park establishment) and in 2012 in the north (severe drought). More than one third of the area of planted (37.5%) or natural (35.8%) forests was highly disturbed. The duration of forest disturbances was mostly 1 to 3 years in terms of planted or natural forests. The NDVI anomaly of the planted forests decreased from 0.24 to −0.08 after drought events, while the reduction was from 0.22 to −0.06 for natural forests. Afterwards, the NDVI anomaly of the planted forests showed a slow upward variation but not for the natural forests. This study allows us to evaluate the response of various forest types to disturbance regimes.
Delineating and Reconstructing 3D Forest Fuel Components and Volumes with Terrestrial Laser Scanning
Authors: Xi Zhouxin , Chasmer Laura , Hopkinson Chris
Published: October 2023

Predictive accuracy in wildland fire behavior is contingent on a thorough understanding of the 3D fuel distribution. However, this task is complicated by the complex nature of fuel forms and the associated constraints in sampling and quantification. In this study, twelve terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) plot scans were sampled within the mountain pine beetle-impacted forests of Jasper National Park, Canada. The TLS point clouds were delineated into eight classes, namely individual-tree stems, branches, foliage, downed woody logs, sapling stems, below-canopy branches, grass layer, and ground-surface points using a transformer-based deep learning classifier. The fine-scale 3D architecture of trees and branches was reconstructed using a quantitative structural model (QSM) based on the multi-class components from the previous step, with volume attributes extracted and analyzed at the branch, tree, and plot levels. The classification accuracy was evaluated by partially validating the results through field measurements of tree height, diameter-at-breast height (DBH), and live crown base height (LCBH). The extraction and reconstruction of 3D wood components enable advanced fuel characterization with high heterogeneity. The existence of ladder trees was found to increase the vertical overlap of volumes between tree branches and below-canopy branches from 8.4% to 10.8%.
Analyzing Changes in Urban Green Spaces and Their Effect on Land Temperature from the Perspective of Surface Radiation Energy Balance in Rizhao City, the Central Coast of China
Authors: Pan Tao , He Shanfeng , Liu Zhaoyu , Jiang Liming , Zhao Qinglei , Hamdi Rafiq
Published: October 2023

The greening of land plays a meaningful role in improving human settlements by regulating ecosystem functions in the central coast region of China. However, research on the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of green land changes in different urbanized regions and the cooling temperature effect of the different green land densities are still lacking in this region, which limits the understanding of the effect of greening of land on land thermal properties. To address this issue, we integrated several approaches to establish a comprehensive way of ‘human–computer interactive interpretation method—urban interior mixed pixel model—surface radiation energy balance model’ using data from remote sensing images and the national land use/cover database of China, focusing on Rizhao city. The conclusions are as follows: The total greening of land from 2000 to 2022 was monitored, and it was found that its cover improved within the built-up area of the city, with the proportion of green land increasing from 25.34% in 2000 to 42.98% in 2022. Differences in the amount of green spaces in different urbanized regions were first observed, namely, the urban greening rate was 37.78% in the old urban area in 2022, while it was as high as 46.43% in the newly expanded urban area in 2022, showing that more attention should be given to the construction of urban green spaces during urban expansion. Thermal comfort indicators in the study area were evaluated in terms of latent heat flux (0–457.83 W/m2), sensible heat flux (0–645.09 W/m2), and total available energy (254.07–659.42 W/m2). We also found that the cooling temperature effect in the middle- and high-density green land regions were 1.05 °C and 2.12 °C higher than those in the low-density region, and the established comfort/discomfort zones in terms of land surface temperature were depicted. These results provide a new practical reference for exploring the spatiotemporal heterogeneity change in green land and its impact on land-surface thermal properties in coastal regions.
Forest-PointNet: A Deep Learning Model for Vertical Structure Segmentation in Complex Forest Scenes
Authors: Ma Zhibin , Dong Yanqi , Zi Jiali , Xu Fu , Chen Feixiang
Published: October 2023

The vertical structure of forest ecosystems influences and reflects ecosystem functioning. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) enables the rapid acquisition of 3D forest information and subsequent reconstruction of the vertical structure, which provides new support for acquiring forest vertical structure information. We focused on artificial forest sample plots in the north-central of Nanning, Guangxi, China as the research area. Forest sample point cloud data were obtained through TLS. By accurately capturing the gradient information of the forest vertical structure, a classification boundary was delineated. A complex forest vertical structure segmentation method was proposed based on the Forest-PointNet model. This method comprehensively utilized the spatial and shape features of the point cloud. The study accurately segmented four types of vertical structure features in the forest sample location cloud data: ground, bushes, trunks, and leaves. With optimal training, the average classification accuracy reaches 90.98%. The results indicated that segmentation errors are mainly concentrated at the branch intersections of the canopy. Our model demonstrates significant advantages, including effective segmentation of vertical structures, strong generalization ability, and feature extraction capability.
Across-Track and Multi-Aperture InSAR for 3-D Glacier Velocity Estimation of the Siachen Glacier
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Høgda Kjell Arild , Larsen Yngvar
Published: October 2023

Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) remote sensing generally lacks deformation sensitivity in the along-track direction. In this proposed approach, across-track observations from conventional InSAR, using both ascending and descending passes, were superimposed with the along-track movement derived from multi-aperture InSAR (MAI) to determine the full three-dimensional (3-D) velocity of the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram range of the Himalayas. The along-track velocity signal is essential for estimating the movement component in the north/south direction, which is needed for a complete delineation of 3-D deformation. The velocity observed was improved using the MAI technique in comparison to the conventional ascending/descending 3-D velocity estimation approach, and substantial differences were noticed between these two methods, particularly in the lower part of the glacier, which is moving almost in an along-track (north/south) direction. Glacier velocity varied from 0.3 md−1 in the accumulation zone to 0.60 md−1 in the terminus zone of the Siachen Glacier using this newly proposed approach. This study presents a 3-D velocity estimation without any preconceived assumptions regarding the flow conditions of glaciers and without any azimuth ambiguity.
Hybrid Convolutional Network Combining Multiscale 3D Depthwise Separable Convolution and CBAM Residual Dilated Convolution for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Hu Yicheng , Tian Shufang , Ge Jia
Published: October 2023

In recent years, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been increasingly leveraged for the classification of hyperspectral imagery, displaying notable advancements. To address the issues of insufficient spectral and spatial information extraction and high computational complexity in hyperspectral image classification, we introduce the MDRDNet, an integrated neural network model. This novel architecture is comprised of two main components: a Multiscale 3D Depthwise Separable Convolutional Network and a CBAM-augmented Residual Dilated Convolutional Network. The first component employs depthwise separable convolutions in a 3D setting to efficiently capture spatial–spectral characteristics, thus substantially reducing the computational burden associated with 3D convolutions. Meanwhile, the second component enhances the network by integrating the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) with dilated convolutions via residual connections, effectively counteracting the issue of model degradation. We have empirically evaluated the MDRDNet’s performance by running comprehensive experiments on three publicly available datasets: Indian Pines, Pavia University, and Salinas. Our findings indicate that the overall accuracy of the MDRDNet on the three datasets reached 98.83%, 99.81%, and 99.99%, respectively, which is higher than the accuracy of existing models. Therefore, the MDRDNet proposed in this study can fully extract spatial–spectral joint information, providing a new idea for solving the problem of large model calculations in 3D convolutions.
The Effect of Acute Physical Exercise on Natural Killer Cells Populations and Cytokine Levels in Healthy Women
Authors: Quintana-Mendias Estefania , Rodríguez-Villalobos Judith M. , Gastelum-Arellanez Argel , Cervantes Natanael , Carrasco-Legleu Claudia E. , Espino-Solis Gerardo Pavel
Published: October 2023

Physical exercise generates a systemic response in the immune system. It has been observed that cell populations respond to exercise stimuli, especially Natural Killer cells, whose number increase within minutes of starting physical exertion. This study aimed to evaluate the acute effect of moderate- and high-intensity exercise on immunological markers in healthy women. As specific objectives, the percentages of CD3-CD56+ Natural Killer total cells, CD56brightCD16dim effector subpopulation, CD56dimCD16bright cytotoxic subpopulation, NKG2A inhibition receptor, NKG2D activation receptor, and NKT cells were analyzed. In addition, the levels of the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, and TNF and the chemokines CCL5/RANTES, CXCL9/MIG, CCL2/MCP-1, and CXCL10/IP-10 were also analyzed. Natural Killer total cells showed an increase in their percentage in both exercise protocols (p = 0.001 for the moderate-intensity group and p = 0.023 for the high-intensity group); however, only in the high-intensity exercise session was there an increase in the CD56dimCD16bright cytotoxic subpopulation (p = 0.014), as well as a decrease in CD56brightCD16dim effector subpopulation (p = 0.001) and their NKG2A inhibition receptor (p = 0.043). An increase in IL-6 was observed after the high-intensity exercise session (p = 0.025). Conclusions. Physical exercise influences immunological markers and shows an acute response to moderate- or high-intensity exercise.
Addressing Volterra Partial Integro-Differential Equations through an Innovative Extended Cubic B-Spline Collocation Technique
Authors: Ali Ishtiaq , Yaseen Muhammad , Khan Sana
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces a novel collocation scheme based on an extended cubic B-spline for approximating the solution of a second-order partial integro-differential equation. The proposed scheme employs new extended cubic B-splines to discretize the second-order derivatives in the spatial domain, while discretization of spatial derivatives of lower orders is achieved using extended cubic B-spline functions. Temporal derivatives are discretized using the forward difference formula. The stability of the algorithm is assessed using the von Neumann stability method to ensure that error magnification is avoided. Furthermore, convergence analysis of the scheme is provided. Numerical experiments are conducted to validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed scheme. The free parameter is optimized using L2 and L∞ norms. The computed results are compared with those obtained from various standard numerical schemes found in the literature. Mathematical 12 is used to obtain numerical results.
The Backward Shift and Two Infinite-Dimension Phenomena in Banach Spaces
Authors: Novosad Zoriana , Zagorodnyuk Andriy
Published: October 2023

We consider the backward shift operator on a sequence Banach space in the context of two infinite-dimensional phenomena: the existence of topologically transitive operators, and the existence of entire analytic functions of the unbounded type. It is well known that the weighted backward shift (for an appropriated weight) is topologically transitive on 1≤p<∞ and on c0. We construct some generalizations of the weighted backward shift for non-separable Banach spaces, which remains topologically transitive. Also, we show that the backward shift, in some sense, generates analytic functions of the unbounded type. We introduce the notion of a generator of analytic functions of the unbounded type on a Banach space and investigate its properties. In addition, we show that, using this operator, one can obtain a quasi-extension operator of analytic functions in a germ of zero for entire analytic functions. The results are supported by examples.
Perfluorooctanoic Acid Promotes Recruitment and Exocytosis of Rodlet Cells in the Renal Hematopoietic Tissue of Common Carp
Authors: Manera Maurizio , Castaldelli Giuseppe , Giari Luisa
Published: October 2023

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants, with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) being a prominent member. PFOA poses a risk to aquatic ecosystems and human health due to its presence in water, environmental persistence, and bioaccumulation. Since rodlet cells (RCs) have emerged as potential biomarkers for chemical stressors, this study aimed to investigate the effects of sub-chronic PFOA exposure on RCs in the renal hematopoietic tissue of common carp. Three groups of fish were used: an unexposed control group and two groups exposed to environmentally relevant (200 ng L−1) and elevated (2 mg L−1) PFOA concentrations. Light and transmission electron microscopy were employed to assess RCs’ distribution patterns and exocytosis, while biometry quantified RCs in the hematopoietic tissue. The results showed that, even at environmentally relevant concentrations, PFOA significantly influenced RCs’ distribution patterns, leading to increased occurrence and cluster formation, as well as heightened exocytosis activity. This research highlights PFOA’s immunotoxicity in fish and suggests the potential of RCs as sentinel cells in the immunological response to environmental contaminants. These findings enhance our understanding of PFAS toxicity and emphasise the importance of monitoring their impact on fish as representative vertebrates and reliable animal models.
An Effective Sign Switching Dark Energy: Lotka–Volterra Model of Two Interacting Fluids
Authors: Ong Yen Chin
Published: October 2023

One of the recent attempts to address the Hubble and S8 tensions is to consider that the Universe started out not as a de Sitter-like spacetime, but rather anti-de Sitter-like. That is, the Universe underwent an “AdS-to-dS” transition at some point. We study the possibility that there are two dark energy fluids, one of which gave rise to the anti-de Sitter-like early Universe. The interaction is modeled by the Lotka–Volterra equations commonly used in population biology. We consider “competition” models that are further classified as “unfair competition” and “fair competition”. The former involves a quintessence in competition with a phantom, and the second involves two phantom fluids. Surprisingly, even in the latter scenario it is possible for the overall dark energy to cross the phantom divide. The latter model also allows a constant w “AdS-to-dS” transition, thus evading the theorem that such a dark energy must possess a singular equation of state. We also consider a “conversion” model in which a phantom fluid still manages to achieve “AdS-to-dS” transition even if it is being converted into a negative energy density quintessence. In these models, the energy density of the late time effective dark energy is related to the coefficient of the quadratic self-interaction term of the fluids, which is analogous to the resource capacity in population biology.
Variations in Pulsating Aurora Emission in 337 nm and 391 nm Nitrogen Spectral Lines during Geomagnetic Substorms
Authors: Klimov Pavel , Nikolaeva Vera , Belov Alexander , Kozelov Boris , Murashov Alexei , Roldugin Alexei , Sharakin Sergei
Published: October 2023

Spectroscopic measurements of aurora emissions provide valuable insights into the altitude of electron atmospheric penetration and their maximum energy. To achieve this, the photometers used in the PAIPS (Pulsating Aurora Imaging Photometers System) project are equipped with spectrometers. These spectrometers enable the measurement of auroral emissions in narrow spectral lines with a temporal resolution of milliseconds. In this study, we present two cases of PsA (Pulsating Aurora) measurements in the 337 nm and 391 nm spectral lines. We demonstrate that during quiet geomagnetic conditions the ratio of night sky emissions in these bands is close to one and significantly increases during substorms. We propose and implement a special procedure for estimating this ratio. Our findings reveal that the intensity of emissions in both spectral lines correlates with the AL index of geomagnetic activity. However, the ratio between the emissions fluctuates around constant values over time and does not undergo significant changes throughout the entire PsA event, which can last for more than an hour.
Analogue Gravitational Lensing in Bose-Einstein Condensates
Authors: Ma Decheng , Jia Chenglong , Solano Enrique , Céleri Lucas Chibebe
Published: October 2023

We consider the propagation of phonons in the presence of a particle sink with radial flow in a Bose–Einstein condensate. Because the particle sink can be used to simulate a static acoustic black hole, the phonon would experience a considerable spacetime curvature at appreciable distance from the sink. The trajectory of the phonons is bended after passing by the particle sink, which can be used as a simulation of the gravitational lensing effect in a Bose–Einstein condensate. Possible experimental implementations are discussed.
Novel Antiviral Agents: Synthesis, Molecular Modelling Studies and Biological Investigation
Authors: Brogi Simone
Published: October 2023

Representing more than 20% of all deaths occurring worldwide, infectious diseases remain one of the main factors in both human and animal morbidity and mortality [...]
Seroprevalence of Swine Influenza A Virus (swIAV) Infections in Commercial Farrow-to-Finish Pig Farms in Greece
Authors: Papatsiros Vasileios G. , Papakonstantinou Georgios I. , Meletis Eleftherios , Koutoulis Konstantinos , Athanasakopoulou Zoi , Maragkakis Georgios , Labronikou Georgia , Terzidis Ilias , Kostoulas Polychronis , Billinis Charalambos
Published: October 2023

Swine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza A virus infection. Pigs play an important role in the overall epidemiology of influenza because of their ability to transmit influenza viruses of avian and human origin, which plays a potential role in the emergence of zoonotic strains with pandemic potential. The aim of our study was to assess the seroprevalence of Swine Influenza Viruses (swIAVs) in commercial pig farms in Greece. A total of 1416 blood samples were collected from breeding animals (gilts and sows) and pigs aged 3 weeks to market age from 40 different swIAV vaccinated and unvaccinated commercial farrow-to-finish pig farms. For the detection of anti-SIV antibodies, sera were analyzed using an indirect ELISA kit CIVTEST SUIS INFLUENZA®, Hipra (Amer, Spain). Of the total 1416 animals tested, 498 were seropositive, indicating that the virus circulates in both vaccinated (54% seroprevalence) and unvaccinated Greek pig farms (23% seroprevalence). In addition, maternally derived antibody (MDA) levels were lower in pigs at 4 and 7 weeks of age in unvaccinated farms than in vaccinated farms. In conclusion, our results underscore the importance of vaccination as an effective tool for the prevention of swIAV infections in commercial farrow-to-finish pig farms.
Two-Parameter Probability Distributions: Methods, Techniques and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Anghel Cristian Gabriel , Stanca Stefan Ciprian , Ilinca Cornel
Published: October 2023

Considering the wide applicability of two-parameter distributions in the frequency analysis of extreme events, this article presents new elements regarding the use of thirteen two-parameter probability distributions, using three parameter estimation methods. All the necessary elements for the application of these distributions are presented using the method of ordinary moments (MOM), the method of linear moments (L-moments) and the method of high order linear moments (LH-moments). Only these three methods are analyzed, because they are usually applied in the analysis regarding the regionalization of extreme events. As a case study, the frequency analysis of the maximum annual flows on the Siret River, Lungoci station, Romania, was made. For the recommended methods (L- and LH-moments), from the thirteen analyzed distributions, the log-normal distribution had the best results, with the theoretical values L-coefficient of variation and L-kurtosis (0.297, 0.192, 0.323, 0.185, 0.336, and 0.185) best approximating the corresponding values of the recorded data (0.339, 0.185, 0.233, 0.199, 0.198, and 0.205).
Engaging Stakeholders to Solve Complex Environmental Problems Using the Example of Micropollutants
Authors: Hillenbrand Thomas , Tettenborn Felix , Bloser Marcus , Luther Stephan , Eisenträger Adolf , Kubelt Janek , Rechenberg Jörg
Published: October 2023

Current and future challenges such as the climate crisis, demographic change and achieving the objectives of the Water Framework Directive require holistic and precautionary approaches within the framework of national and supranational strategies. Specific measures and projects resulting from these strategic activities are required to successfully meet the challenges. In 2016, the German Environment Agency (UBA) and the Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV) commissioned the process for the development of the Federal Government’s micropollutants strategy, which was later named the Trace Substance Strategy. The essential core instrument herein was a multi-stakeholder dialogue aimed at giving sufficient consideration to the different interests of the various stakeholders. The goal was to develop a balanced mix of measures and to initiate implementations in order to reduce emissions of micropollutants as effectively and efficiently as possible, at the source, in their application and in the downstream areas. The various measures were tested in a pilot phase, and the activities were evaluated before being transferred into the subsequent consolidation phase. This article describes the outcomes of the stakeholder dialogue as an instrument. This is complemented by the results of a stakeholder evaluation of the process itself and the results achieved. Important outcomes of the stakeholder dialogue are a Committee for the Identification of Relevant Micropollutants and the use of roundtables as an important instrument in which the manufacturers and the users of the substances can make an important contribution to reducing emissions. To address the opportunities and necessities of additional wastewater treatment, an “orientation framework” for municipal wastewater treatment plants was also established. Additionally, the German Centre for Micropollutants (SZB) was founded to continuously organize, support and accompany the various outcomes that became relevant pillars of the German government’s Trace Substance Strategy. The evaluation has shown that new approaches and new instruments have been created within the framework of the stakeholder dialogue, which enable flexible and short-term options for action and allow for the involvement of stakeholders in a manner appropriate to the polluter-pays principle. Specific emission reductions could not be expected within the time frame of the dialogue. However, stakeholders agreed that the strategic process chosen is preferable to purely regulatory steps due to the holistic approach involving all stakeholders concerned in this complex matter. It is expected that in the future, if implemented consistently, the approach could achieve a lasting and sustainable impact on a broad scale.