bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of NBPT and NPPT Application as a Urease Carrier in Fertilization of Maize (Zea mays L.) for Ensiling
Authors: Szulc Piotr , Krauklis Daniel , Ambroży-Deręgowska Katarzyna , Wróbel Barbara , Zielewicz Waldemar , Niedbała Gniewko , Kardasz Przemysław , Selwet Marek , Niazian Mohsen
Published: March 2023

The study presents the results of a 3-year field trial aimed at assessing the yield and quality of raw material for ensiling in the cultivation of three maize varieties differing in their agronomic and genetic profile, conditioned by the selection of nitrogen fertilizer. Maize cultivar ES Metronom showed a significant advantage over other cultivars when fertilized with UltraGrain stabile, or alternatively Super N-46. The application of nitrogen-stabilized fertilizers or urea + N-Lock significantly increased the yield of maize green fodder for ensiling. The “stay-green” maize cultivars were characterized by a higher content of non-structural carbohydrates, including starch and water-soluble sugars, and a lower content of structural carbohydrates, compared to the conventional cultivar, which increased their suitability for ensiling. The negative effect of maize fertilization with ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrate + N-Lock on the chemical composition of green fodder was demonstrated by a reduced starch content and increased structural carbohydrate contents, including crude fiber and NDF. In turn, the positive effect of maize fertilization with urea and urea + N-Lock on the chemical composition of maize fodder was shown by increased starch content and reduced structural carbohydrate contents, including crude fiber and its NDF and ADF fractions. The analysis of the number and weight of leaves may indicate a highly effective utilization of nitrogen (“stay-green” maize hybrids), leading to the faster formation of leaves with a larger assimilation surface, which is the basis for the efficient absorption of solar radiation. The results obtained clearly show that only the correct choice of maize variety for silage cultivation, combined with nitrogen fertilizer guaranteeing access to N during the growing season, can guarantee a high yield for ensiling.
A Two-Factor Thermal Screen Control Strategy for Chinese Solar Greenhouses in High-Latitude Areas
Authors: Liu Hanlin , Lu Liangchen , Sun Dapeng , Liu Peng , Li Yiming , Li Tianlai , Liu Xingan
Published: March 2023

Covering thermal screen on the front roof is one of the most general methods to improve the thermal performance of the solar greenhouse in China. Thermal screen control, however, is operator-dependent and based on empirical strategies. In order to more effectively manage the thermal screen, an optimal control method based on solar radiation and temperature difference between indoor and outdoor was established. The influence of different factors on the control of greenhouse thermal screen is systematically analyzed and the control function of the greenhouse thermal screen was calculated. The empirical control formula was established based on simulation which lasted for 62 days. As a result, the two-factor control method can significantly improve the air temperature when the thermal screen is controlled, and it can increase the average air temperature by 0.53 °C. Comparing with temperature difference, solar radiation has a greater impact on the control of thermal screen. The control method based on temperature difference and solar radiation can save 7.2% energy in winter. The research can provide reference for energy saving and automatic control of Chinese solar greenhouse.
Modelling Leverage of Different Soil Properties on Selenium Water-Solubility in Soils of Southeast Europe
Authors: Galić Lucija , Galić Vlatko , Ivezić Vladimir , Zebec Vladimir , Jović Jurica , Đikić Mirha , Filipović Adrijana , Manojlović Maja , Almås Åsgeir Rossebø , Lončarić Zdenko
Published: March 2023

Selenium (Se) is a nonmetal that is essential for humans and other animals, and is considered beneficial for plants. The bioavailability of Se strongly influences its content in the food chain. Soils are the main source of Se, and their Se content primarily influences its availability, along with other soil properties. A field survey was conducted on soils of Southeast Europe, specifically in Croatia (Osijek), Bosnia and Herzegovina (Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Mostar, and Prud), and Serbia (Novi Sad). Soil samples were taken from the arable soil layer (0–30 cm depth), and two types of Se availability were measured: Se extracted using pure HNO3 (SeTot) and Se readily extracted in water (SeH2O). Only soils from the Mostar area had Se concentrations above deficit levels (0.5 mg kg−1), with the highest values of cation exchange capacity (CEC), soil organic matter (SOM) measured as loss of ignition (LOI), total C, total N, ZnTot and CdTot. The connections between the chemical characteristics of the soil and SeH2O were investigated. Principal component analysis (PCA) explained 73.7% of the variance in the data set in the first three principal components (PCs). Using the provided data, we developed a partial least squares (PLS) regression model that predicted the amount of SeH2O in the soil, with an accuracy ranging from 77% to 90%, depending on the input data. The highest loadings in the model were observed for LOI, CEC, total C, total N, and SeTot. Our results indicate the need for biofortification in these key agricultural areas to supplement the essential dietary requirements of humans and livestock. To efficiently and economically implement biofortification measures, we recommend utilizing regression models to accurately predict the availability of Se.
Contrasting Key Bacteria and Fungi Related to Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) with Different Resistances to Beet Rot under Two Farming Modes
Authors: Lin Ming , Zhou Yuanhang , Xu Runlai , Du Chenghang , Wang Ronghua , Lu Weidan , Abudukadier Kuerban , Sun Zhencai
Published: March 2023

Sugar beet production is threatened by beetroot rot, which can be triggered by consecutive monoculture. Previous studies have shown the beneficial function of microbes affiliated with different plant compartments in inhibiting various plant pathogens. However, whether sugar beet root can recruit particular microbes at the risk of beet rot is still unclear. Therefore, this study explored the composition and community structure of bacteria and fungi of the different compartments (endosphere root, rhizosphere, bulk soil) under two farming modes (monoculture and rotation). Our result showed that the farming mode significantly affected the community structure of bacteria and fungi in bulk soil. In the rhizosphere, the community structures of bacteria between the two varieties were similar under rotation mode, and markedly different under monoculture mode. The bacterial and fungal diversity in the rhizosphere and endophytic root of the rot-suppressive variety was higher than in the rot-conducive variety. Under monoculture mode, the beneficial microbes as biomarkers were enriched in the rot-resistant variety, e.g., operational taxonomic units (OTUs) affiliated to the genus of Sordariomycetes, Cordycipitaceae, Lecanicillium, Plectosphaerellaceae, S085, Pedosphaeraceae in the rhizosphere and the genus of Actinobacteria, and Pseudonocardia, Exobasidiomycetes in the endophytic root, while for the rot-conducive variety, OTUs affiliated to the genus of Chitinophagaceae, Flavisolibacter in the rhizosphere and the Novosphingobium, Sphingobacterium, Tilletiopsis_washingtonensis, and Flavobacterium in the endophytic root. The network analysis showed that OTUs affiliated to the order of Saccharimonadales, Anaerolineae, the family of Saprospiraceae, the genus of Subgroup_10 (belonging to the family of Thermoanaerobaculaceae), Lysobacter, and AKYG587 were the keystone taxa in the rot-suppressive variety, while both beneficial and harmful microbes in the rot-conducive variety, such as Pedobacter, Ferruginibacter, and P3OB-42, were present. The variation in soil pH was shown to be the critical contributor to the microbial difference. In summary, the farming mode is critical in shaping bulk soil microbial structure by changing soil pH. Under monoculture mode, the rot-suppressive variety has more microbial diversity in both the rhizosphere and endophytic root, and enriched different beneficial microbes relative to the rot-conducive variety; the underlying mechanisms and associations of critical microbes are worth further investigation.
Exploring the Influences of Water-Saving Practices on the Spatiotemporal Evolution of Groundwater Dynamics in a Large-Scale Arid District in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Yue Weifeng , Zhao Hangzheng , Zan Ziyi , Guo Mengshen , Wu Fengyan , Zhai Lini , Wu Jin
Published: March 2023

Water-saving practices (WSPs) have been recognized as an effective measure for reducing agricultural water use and alleviating regional water shortages in arid irrigation districts. However, WSPs have also reduced groundwater recharge, thereby causing the depth to groundwater table (DGT) to increase. Therefore, characterizing the impact of WSPs on the spatiotemporal variability in the DGT is of paramount importance for protecting limited groundwater resources. Based on monthly DGT observation data collected from 1990 to 2015 at 206 observation wells in the Hetao Irrigation District (HID), located in Northwest China with an arid climate, the spatiotemporal variations in DGT before and after the application of WSPs were analyzed using the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) method, and the major driving factors of the spatiotemporal DGT changes were also identified using comprehensive approaches. The EOF method revealed four major spatiotemporal DGT patterns both before and after WSPs were applied; these patterns explained 71.39% and 73.99% of the total variability in the HID before and after WSPs application, respectively. In addition, the main controlling factors affecting the DGT dynamics were different before and after WSPs were applied. In terms of the associations of the DGT with the impacting factors, the meteorological factors had the strongest impact on the DGT changes on the long-term scale of 64 months; however, irrigation played a leading role at the seasonal and semiannual scales, especially after WSPs application. The soil texture significantly impacted the spatial DGT patterns, particularly at depths above 150 cm. This study provides a scientific basis for the rational development of local groundwater resources and the scientific management of water-saving irrigation measures.
Design of a Virtual Multi-Interaction Operation System for Hand–Eye Coordination of Grape Harvesting Robots
Authors: Liu Jizhan , Liang Jin , Zhao Shengyi , Jiang Yingxing , Wang Jie , Jin Yucheng
Published: March 2023

In harvesting operations, simulation verification of hand–eye coordination in a virtual canopy is critical for harvesting robot research. More realistic scenarios, vision-based driving motion, and cross-platform interaction information are needed to achieve such simulations, which are very challenging. Current simulations are more focused on path planning operations for consistency scenarios, which are far from satisfying the requirements. To this end, a new approach of visual servo multi-interaction simulation in real scenarios is proposed. In this study, a dual-arm grape harvesting robot in the laboratory is used as an example. To overcome these challenges, a multi-software federation is first proposed to establish their communication and cross-software sending of image information, coordinate information, and control commands. Then, the fruit recognition and positioning algorithm, forward and inverse kinematic model and simulation model are embedded in OpenCV and MATLAB, respectively, to drive the simulation run of the robot in V-REP, thus realizing the multi-interaction simulation of hand–eye coordination in virtual trellis vineyard. Finally, the simulation is verified, and the results show that the average running time of a string-picking simulation system is 6.5 s, and the success rate of accurate picking point grasping reached 83.3%. A complex closed loop of “scene-image recognition-grasping” is formed by data processing and transmission of various information. It can effectively realize the continuous hand–eye coordination multi-interaction simulation of the harvesting robot under the virtual environment.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in Solanum nigrum Based on Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) Markers
Authors: Li Jinhui , Wei Shouhui , Huang Zhaofeng , Zhu Yuyong , Li Longlong , Zhang Yixiao , Ma Ziqing , Huang Hongjuan
Published: March 2023

Solanum nigrum is a noxious weed in agricultural ecosystem that limits many crops’ production. The aim of the present study was to understand the level of genetic diversity and population structure of S. nigrum in China. A specific-locus amplified fragment (SLAF) sequencing method was conducted to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genomes of S. nigrum from 66 populations in China. A total of 616,533 high-quality SNPs were identified from 189,840 SLAFs, with an average sequencing depth of 10.59× fold and a Q30 value of 93% and a GC content of 42.78%. It showed a considerable amount of genetic diversity and genetic variability of S. nigrum among samples. The genetic differentiation of S. nigrum indicated that there was a low level of genetic differentiation (Fst < 0.1000) among geographical populations. A cluster analysis showed that populations of S. nigrum were divided into two subgroups, with some samples from adjacent position roughly clustered together, which showed some correlation between geographic origins. A population structure analysis suggested the 66 S. nigrum samples could have originated from three different genetic clusters. The Xinjiang site was the only location where all genetic clusters were found, which suggested these populations were genetically diverse. These results showed that there was a high degree of genetic diversity and low difference among the different geographical populations of S. nigrum. The results from the genetic structure of the SNP markers indicated that wide genetic variability exists among the population of S. nigrum in China, which may contribute to the adaptation and infestation of this weed species.
Ammonia Volatilization and Marandu Grass Production in Response to Enhanced-Efficiency Nitrogen Fertilizers
Authors: Cassimiro Juliana Bonfim , de Oliveira Clayton Luís Baravelli , Boni Ariele da Silva , Donato Natália de Lima , Meirelles Guilherme Constantino , da Silva Juliana Françoso , Ribeiro Igor Virgilio , Heinrichs Reges
Published: March 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate dry matter (DM) production of Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu and ammonia volatilization in response to rates and sources of enhanced-efficiency N fertilizers. The experiment was took place in a pasture area, two growing seasons. A randomized block design with four replications was used, in a 4 × 2 + 1 factorial arrangement, consisting of four N sources (Urea—UrConv; Ammonium nitrate—AN; Urea + NBPT—UrNBPT; Urea + Duromide—UrDuromide) and two nitrogen rates (100 and 200 kg ha−1 year), plus a treatment without nitrogen fertilization (control). At both N rates, ammonia volatilization from UrConv100/200 was greatest. Ammonia volatilization was less after UrNBPT and UrDuromide application, with values similar to AN. Ammonia losses from UrDuromide tend to be lower than from UrNBPT. The N use efficiency in dry matter production of Marandu was influenced by the N sources and rates. At both N rates, the efficiency of UrDuromide and UrNBPT was greater than that of UrConv. With regard to total DM and leaf percentage in response to N rates, DM production increased after 200 kg N ha−1 rates in response to all sources, in both years. The UrDuromide reduce N losses by volatilization compared to UrNBPT and Urconv, and resulted in greater total DM production and relative leaf production of Marandu, in comparison to UrNBPT, AN and Urconv.
Morphometric Study of the Eyeball of the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) Using Computed Tomography (CT)
Authors: Fumero-Hernández Marcos , Encinoso Quintana Mario , Ramírez Ana S. , Morales Fariña Inmaculada , Calabuig Pascual , Jaber José Raduan
Published: March 2023

The short bibliography referring to the anatomy and pathology of the eyeball of turtles poses a challenge for veterinarians and conservationists given the increasing presence of this type of turtle in veterinary and wildlife centres. Although they nest on land, these animals spend a large part of their lives in the ocean, which entails a series of eye adaptations such as well-developed nictitating membranes, palpebral scales, highly sensitive corneas, or sclerotic rings to protect the eye. In our study, we performed a morphometric analysis of the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) eyeball and its internal structures using advanced imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT). To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there have been no studies published that describe the CT intraocular measurements of presumed normal loggerhead turtle eyes.
Exploring Rotational Grazing and Crossbreeding as Options for Beef Production to Reduce GHG Emissions and Feed-Food Competition through Farm-Level Bio-Economic Modeling
Authors: Mertens Alexandre , Kokemohr Lennart , Braun Emilie , Legein Louise , Mosnier Claire , Pirlo Giacomo , Veysset Patrick , Hennart Sylvain , Mathot Michaël , Stilmant Didier
Published: March 2023

In the context of a growing population, beef production is expected to reduce its consumption of human-edible food and its contribution to global warming. We hypothesize that implementing the innovations of fast rotational grazing and redesigning existing production systems using crossbreeding and sexing may reduce these impacts. In this research, the bio-economic model FarmDyn is used to assess the impact of such innovations on farm profit, workload, global warming potential, and feed-food competition. The innovations are tested in a Belgian system composed of a Belgian Blue breeder and a fattener farm, another system where calves raised in a French suckler cow farm are fattened in a farm in Italy, and third, a German dairy farm that fattens its male calves. The practice of fast rotational grazing with a herd of dairy-to-beef crossbred males is found to have the best potential for greenhouse gas reduction and a reduction of the use of human-edible food when by-products are available. Crossbreeding with early-maturing beef breeds shows a suitable potential to produce grass-based beef with little feed-food competition if the stocking rate considers the grassland yield potential. The results motivate field trials in order to validate the findings.
Differences in the Natural Swimming Behavior of Schizothorax prenanti Individual and Schooling in Spatially Heterogeneous Turbulent Flows
Authors: Li Minne , Chen Min , Wu Weixiong , Li Jia , An Ruidong
Published: March 2023

Spatially heterogeneous turbulent flow refers to nonuniform flow with coexisting multiple flow velocities, which is widely distributed in fish natural or husbandry environments, and its hydraulic parameters affect fish swimming behavior. In this study, a complex hydrodynamic environment with three flow velocity regions (low, medium, and high) coexisting in an open-channel flume was designed to explore volitional swimming ability, the spatial-temporal distribution of fish swimming trajectories, and the range of preferred hydrodynamic parameters of Schizothorax prenanti individual and schooling (three fish). The results showed that the swimming speed of individual fish during upstream migration was significantly higher than that of fish schools (p < 0.05). The swimming trajectories of fish schooling showed that they spent more time synchronously exploring the flow environment during upstream migration compared with individual fish. By superimposing the fish swimming trajectories on the environmental flow field, the range of hydrodynamic environments preferred by fish in complex flow fields was quantified. This research provides a novel approach for investigating the natural swimming behavior of fish species, and a theoretical reference for the restoration of fish natural habitats or flow enrichment of husbandry environments.
Individualized Housing Modifies the Immune–Endocrine System in CD1 Adult Male Mice
Authors: Ortega-Saez Iván , Díez-Solinska Alina , Grífols Roger , Martí Cristina , Zamora Carolina , Muñoz-Culla Maider , Vegas Oscar , Azkona Garikoitz
Published: March 2023

In the last years, different research groups have made considerable efforts to improve the care and use of animals in research. Mice (Mus musculus) are the most widely used animal species in research in the European Union and are sociable and hierarchical creatures. During experiments, researchers tend to individualize males, but no consideration is given to whether this social isolation causes them stress. The aim of this study was, therefore, to explore whether 4 weeks of social isolation could induce changes in different physiological parameters in adult Crl:CD1(ICR) (CD1) males, which may interfere with experimental results. Body weight, blood cells, and fecal corticosterone metabolites levels were the analyzed parameters. Blood and fecal samples were collected at weeks 1 and 4 of the experimental procedure. Four weeks of single housing produced a significant time-dependent decrease in monocytes and granulocytes. Fecal corticosterone metabolite levels were higher in single-housed mice after 1 week and then normalized after 4 weeks of isolation. Body weight, red blood cells, and platelets remained unchanged in both groups during this period. We can, therefore, conclude that social isolation affects some immune and endocrine parameters, and that this should be taken into account in the interpretation of research data.
Sock and Environmental Swabs as an Efficient, Non-Invasive Tool to Assess the Salmonella Status of Sow Farms
Authors: Lillie-Jaschniski Kathrin , Wähner Christoph , Viehmann Miriam , Hauf Silke , Gale Christina , Rohde Judith , Hennig-Pauka Isabel
Published: March 2023

Salmonellosis is the second most reported gastrointestinal infection in humans after campylobacteriosis and a common cause of foodborne outbreaks in the European Union (EU). In addition to consumption of contaminated animal-based foods, such as poultry, beef and eggs, pork is an important source of human salmonellosis outbreaks; therefore, Salmonella (S.) control should start in the early stages of pig production. To be able to implement effective control measures to reduce the risk of pigs being infected by Salmonella, it is important to identify the serovars circulating on farm within the different stages of production, including as early as sow and piglet breeding. The aim of the present study was to assess the Salmonella status of sow farms either producing their own finishers or delivering piglets to fattening farms with a known high serological prevalence identified within the QS Salmonella monitoring system. Overall, 97 (92.4%) of 105 investigated piglet-producing farms across Germany tested positive in at least one sample. Salmonella was detected in 38.2% of the sock and 27.1% of the environmental swab samples. S. Typhimurium was the most frequent serovar. In conclusion, sock and environmental swab samples are well suited for non-invasive Salmonella detection in different production units in farrowing farms. To establish a holistic Salmonella control program, all age classes of pig production should be sampled to enable intervention and implementation of countermeasures at an early stage if necessary.
Evolutionary and Genomic Diversity of True Polyploidy in Tetrapods
Authors: Mezzasalma Marcello , Brunelli Elvira , Odierna Gaetano , Guarino Fabio Maria
Published: March 2023

True polyploid organisms have more than two chromosome sets in their somatic and germline cells. Polyploidy is a major evolutionary force and has played a significant role in the early genomic evolution of plants, different invertebrate taxa, chordates, and teleosts. However, the contribution of polyploidy to the generation of new genomic, ecological, and species diversity in tetrapods has traditionally been underestimated. Indeed, polyploidy represents an important pathway of genomic evolution, occurring in most higher-taxa tetrapods and displaying a variety of different forms, genomic configurations, and biological implications. Herein, we report and discuss the available information on the different origins and evolutionary and ecological significance of true polyploidy in tetrapods. Among the main tetrapod lineages, modern amphibians have an unparalleled diversity of polyploids and, until recently, they were considered to be the only vertebrates with closely related diploid and polyploid bisexual species or populations. In reptiles, polyploidy was thought to be restricted to squamates and associated with parthenogenesis. In birds and mammals, true polyploidy has generally been considered absent (non-tolerated). These views are being changed due to an accumulation of new data, and the impact as well as the different evolutionary and ecological implications of polyploidy in tetrapods, deserve a broader evaluation.
Serotonin and Dopamine Blood Levels in ADHD-Like Dogs
Authors: González-Martínez Ángela , Muñiz de Miguel Susana , Graña Noemi , Costas Xiana , Diéguez Francisco Javier
Published: March 2023

As with humans, dogs can suffer from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder-like (ADHD-like) behaviors naturally and exhibit high levels of hyperactivity/impulsivity and attention deficit problems, making the domestic dog a potential animal model for ADHD. ADHD has a very complex pathophysiology in which many neurotransmitters are involved, such as serotonin and dopamine. The aim of the study was to evaluate serum serotonin and dopamine levels in dogs with ADHD-like symptomatology. Fifty-eight dogs were studied, of which, thirty-six were classified as ADHD-like after physical and behavioral assessments. Additionally, the dogs’ owners performed a series of scientifically validated questionnaires which included C-BARQ, the Dog Impulsivity Assessment Scale, and the Dog-ADHD rating scale. Serum from every animal was collected after the behavioral assessments and analyzed with commercial ELISA tests for serotonin and dopamine determination. Kruskal–Wallis tests and Lasso regressions were applied to assess the relationships between both neurotransmitters and the ADHD-like behaviors (as assessed by clinical evaluation and through the different questionnaires). The dogs clinically classified as ADHD-like showed lower serotonin and dopamine concentrations. Further, serotonin and dopamine levels were also linked to aggression, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Decreased serotonin concentrations were also related to fear, attachment, and touch sensitivity. Finally, it must be noted that our data suggested a strong relationship between serotonin and dopamine and ADHD-like behaviors.
Novel Lactotransferrin-Derived Antimicrobial Peptide LF-1 Inhibits the Cariogenic Virulence Factors of Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Luo Junyuan , Feng Zening , Lyu Xiaohui , Zhang Linglin
Published: March 2023

We previously developed a novel lactotransferrin-derived antimicrobial peptide, LF-1, with selective antibacterial activity against the characteristic cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans. This study further investigated the effects of LF-1 on the cariogenic virulence factors of S. mutans and evaluated the changes in virulence-associated enzymes and genes; the viability, acidogenicity, and aciduricity of planktonic S. mutans; and initial colonisation and biofilm formation after treatment with LF-1. The method of qRT-PCR was used to evaluate S. mutans virulence-associated gene expression. LF-1 interfered with the cell viability of S. mutans within 6 h. LF-1 inhibited the acidogenicity and aciduricity of S. mutans, with reduced lactic acid production and survival in a lethal acidic environment, and inactivated lactate dehydrogenase and F1F0-ATPase activity. LF-1 decreased surface-adherent S. mutans within 60 min and inhibited S. mutans biofilm formation, where scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy showed reduced extracellular matrix and bacteria. LF-1 downregulates S. mutans virulence-associated gene expression. LF-1 inhibited the growth and cariogenic virulence factors of S. mutans in vitro with a reduction in key enzymatic activity and downregulation of virulence-associated gene expression. LF-1 has promising application prospects in the fight against S. mutans and dental caries.
The Influence of the Magnetic Field Line Curvature on Wall Erosion near the Hall Thruster Exit Plane
Authors: Quan Lulu , Cao Yong , Tian Bin , Gong Keyu
Published: March 2023

One of the main factors that limit the lifetime of the Hall effect Thrusters (HETs) is the erosion of the acceleration channel caused by the flux of energetic ions. The magnetic field that is curved and convex towards the anode has been widely used in HETs because of its role in reducing the divergence angle of the ion beam and the channel wall erosion. However, the mechanism of the influence of the magnetic field line curvature on the wall erosion is not clear. Therefore, in this paper, a 2D3V numerical model based on the immersed-finite-element and particle-in-cell (IFE-PIC) method is established to simulate the radial-azimuthal plane near the exit of the Hall thruster. The effect of the tilt angle of the magnetic field line on the wall sputtering erosion rate is analyzed. The results show that compared to the case with the electric field E perpendicular to the magnetic field B, the energy of the ions hitting the channel wall is smaller and the wall erosion is weaker when the magnetic field lines are convex to the anode. As the tilt angle of the magnetic field lines increases from 0° to 60°, the erosion rate is reduced by 90%. Conversely, when the magnetic field lines are convex to the exit plane of the channel, the wall erosion is much more serious compared to the case with the orthogonal electric field E and the magnetic field B. As the tilt angle of the magnetic field line changes from 0° to 60°, the erosion rate is enhanced by 171%. The results in this paper are instructive for the design and optimization of the magnetic field of the HETs.
Real-Time Behaviour of Dredged Slurry Treated by Air-Booster Vacuum Consolidation
Authors: Yao Kang , Cheng Da , Sheng Junhui , Shi Li , Hu Lijian , Yu Yanming
Published: March 2023

The air-booster vacuum preloading method has been applied to slurry ground improvement. It is based on the conventional vacuum preloading method but with an additional injection of pressurised air into the soil via pre-installed conductors. The drainage effect of air-booster vacuum preloading has been demonstrated by past studies; however, direct observations of the real-time behaviour of slurries subjected to boosted air remain lacking. This study used a combined monitoring technique that included particle image velocimetry, pore water/air pressure gauges, a vortex flowmeter and an electronic balance to conduct a laboratory test of air-booster vacuum consolidation of dredged slurry. The tests allowed analyses of (1) the real-time displacement field of the slurry, (2) the pressure–flux relationship of the pressurised air, and (3) the pore water pressure responses during air boosting. The first aspect allowed direct observation of small-crack initialisation and propagation during pressurisation; while the latter two confirmed the crack initiation based on drops in air and pore water pressures. The measured crack initiation pressure was verified by comparison with theoretical predictions. The results demonstrate that pressurised air induces cracks in soil, which promote the drainage consolidation of dredged slurry.
Prediction of Landslide Deformation Region Based on the Improved S-Growth Curve Model
Authors: Li Yuyang , Nie Wen , Li Qihang , Zhu Yang , Yuan Canming , Dai Bibo , Kong Qiuping
Published: March 2023

Quantitative research on and the prediction of a landslide deformation area is an important point to accurately and comprehensively understand the failure mechanism of landslides and the degree of slope failure. This study uses image processing techniques to quantitatively identify the area and volume of deformation regions during rainfall-type landslide destabilization under multifactor conditions. The findings revealed that (1) an increase in rainfall intensity and slope angle, as well as the existence of slope crest, will accelerate the process of slope instability. In our study, when the rainfall intensity was 140 mm/h and the landslide volume reached 35.68%, the landslide failure was the most serious. (2) Slopes with high compaction of subsoil as well as those without perimeter pressure are relatively more damaged. (3) The higher the density of vegetation cover, the stronger the protection ability of the slope, and the higher the wind speed, the greater the failure to the slope. Furthermore, an improved S-growth curve model was proposed to predict landslide volumes in 16 sets of experiments. In detail, the proposed S-growth curve model predicted landslide volumes with an average absolute percentage error of 4.34–16.77%. Compared with the time series analysis moving-average method (average absolute percentage error of 6.39–68.89%), the S-growth curve model not only has higher prediction accuracy but also can describe the three stages of deformation region development from a physical perspective and can be applied to the volume during landslide change prediction.
PC-Allocation: Performance Cliff-Aware Two-Level Cache Resource Allocation Scheme for Storage System
Authors: Liu Song , Zhang Chen , Nie Shiqiang , Duan Keqiang , Wu Weiguo
Published: March 2023

Using the MRC (Miss Rate Curve) to guide cache capacity allocation is a common method in the storage system. However, optimal resource allocation is an NP-complete problem due to the cache performance cliff. Existing studies ignore this phenomenon or they use partitioning technology to eliminate it without considering the performance potential behind the cliff. This paper delves into this potential and proposes a cliff-aware cache resource allocation algorithm based on the inherent relationship between the capacity and the hit rate. Experiments show that these requests where the latency is less than 130 µs is increased by 33.3%. The proposed method obtains a significant cost reduction in DRAM and improves the hitting ratio of the cache layer.
Aircraft Wake Recognition Based on Improved ParNet Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Ma Yuzhao , Zhao Jiangbei , Han Haoran , Chan Pak-wai , Xiong Xinglong
Published: March 2023

The occurrence of wake can pose a threat to the flight safety of aircraft and affect the runway capacity and airport operation efficiency. To effectively identify aircraft wake, this paper proposes a novel convolutional neural network (CNN) method of aircraft wake recognition based on the improved parallel network (ParNet). Depthwise separable convolution (DSC) was introduced into the ParNet to make the wake recognition model lightweight. In addition, the convolutional block attention module (CBAM) was introduced into the wake recognition model to improve the capacity of the model to extract the spatial features of the wind field. The proposed aircraft wake recognition method was used to identify the aircraft wake based on the lidar wind field scanning image of Hong Kong International Airport. The best wake recognition effect was obtained with a recognition accuracy of 98.91% and an F1 value of 98.90%. As the number of parameters of the model was only 0.46 M, the aircraft wake could be identified on an ordinary computer. Thus, the proposed method can effectively identify aircraft wake.
Methods of Automated Music Comparison Based on Multi-Objective Metrics of Network Similarity
Authors: Muszynski Szymon , Tarapata Zbigniew
Published: March 2023

This paper describes methods and techniques of measuring similarity of musical pieces. This topic is crucial in plagiarism control and arrangement evaluation as these processes depend in particular on a previous experience and subjective aesthetical feelings of a researcher. Although there are some common frameworks for comparing musical pieces (i.e., some characteristics of compared pieces and details to consider), having a set of comprehensive metrics would allow to make such comparisons more unbiased. We show that such a comparison can be made using a network representation of a track. Tracks are compared using a structural and quantitative similarity between matrices corresponding to these musical pieces. In this article, we describe network representations of music. We introduce a set of specific methods of calculating this similarity and study their characteristics. We also evaluate them on the set of test pieces and provide results. We show that this method can be especially used for detecting instances of plagiarism between pieces and evaluating similarity of created arrangements, thus measuring their “innovativeness”.
A Statistical Risk Assessment Model of the Hazard Chain Induced by Landslides and Its Application to the Baige Landslide
Authors: Yang Feng-Yuan , Zhuo Li , Xiao Ming-Li , Xie Hong-Qiang , Liu Huai-Zhong , He Jiang-Da
Published: March 2023

Landslides are usually caused by rainstorms and geological processes such as earthquakes and may have a massive impact on human production and life. The hazard chain of landslide–river blockage–outburst flood is the most common hazard chain caused by landslides. A database based on existing landslide cases was established in this study to investigate the assessment formulas of the risk of river blockage, dam stability, and peak flood discharge after a dam has broken. A risk assessment model of the landslide–river blockage–breaching hazard chain was established, including the downstream vulnerability. The case of the Baige landslide verified the applicability of the model. This model can be used in a landslide-prone area to predict whether a relatively massive river blockage will form after the landslide occurs, whether the landslide dam formed by the river blockage will breach in a short time, and the impact of the outburst flood on the downstream area.
Transposed Convolution as Alternative Preprocessor for Brain-Computer Interface Using Electroencephalogram
Authors: Machida Kenshi , Nambu Isao , Wada Yasuhiro
Published: March 2023

The implementation of a brain–computer interface (BCI) using electroencephalography typically entails two phases: feature extraction and classification utilizing a classifier. Consequently, there are numerous disordered combinations of feature extraction and classification techniques that apply to each classification target and dataset. In this study, we employed a neural network as a classifier to address the versatility of the system in converting inputs of various forms into outputs of various forms. As a preprocessing step, we utilized a transposed convolution to augment the width of the convolution and the number of output features, which were then classified using a convolutional neural network (CNN). Our implementation of a simple CNN incorporating a transposed convolution in the initial layer allowed us to classify the BCI Competition IV Dataset 2a Motor Imagery Task data. Our findings indicate that our proposed method, which incorporates a two-dimensional CNN with a transposed convolution, outperforms the accuracy achieved without the transposed convolution. Additionally, the accuracy obtained was comparable to conventional optimal preprocessing methods, demonstrating the effectiveness of the transposed convolution as a potential alternative for BCI preprocessing.
Sediment Contamination and Toxicity in the Guadalquivir River (Southwest, Spain)
Authors: Riba Inmaculada , Luque-Escalona Angel , Costa Maria Helena
Published: March 2023

A segment of the Guadalquivir River was assessed between the Alcalá del Río dam and Seville through an integrative sediment quality assessment. Chemical concentrations of metals and toxicity under laboratory conditions were used as lines of evidence. A battery of bioassays with four organisms (the amphipod Ampelisca brevicornis, the bacteria Vibrio fischeri, the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus, and the oligochaete Tubifex tubifex) exposed to sediment made it possible to determine the potential risk associated. The sediments from Seville and Alcalá del Río showed higher values of the concentration of most metals than the Algaba station, with Cu (35–37 µg/g), Zn (70–75 µg/g), Ni (23–26 µg/g), and Pb (27–30 µg/g) being the most abundant metals. An increasing toxicity gradient was shown downstream among the bioassays with the amphipod A. brevicornis, the fertilization test using the sea urchin P. lividus, and the freshwater worm growth T. tubifex. Conversely, an increasing toxicity gradient was shown upstream in the embryo-larval P. lividus development. The link between sediment contamination and toxicity makes it possible to obtain a gradient of contaminant concentration comparable with nationally and internationally widely accepted sediment quality guidelines in order to establish the risk associated with this area of study.
Hybrid Strategy to Improve the High-Dimensional Multi-Target Sparrow Search Algorithm and Its Application
Authors: Ren Lu , Zhang Wenyu , Ye Yunrui , Li Xinru
Published: March 2023

This research combines the improved reference point selection strategy and the sparrow search algorithm with an enhanced competition mechanism to create a high-dimensional multi-objective sparrow search algorithm with an incorporated improved reference point selection strategy. First, the reference point selection approach is utilized to establish the reference points and sparrow populations, and the most important reference points are dynamically chosen to increase the global search ability. Then, the size of the search population and the method of searcher position updating are dynamically adjusted according to the size of the entropy difference between two adjacent generations of the population. Following, the convergence speed is increased by improving the follower position formula and extending the competition mechanism to high-dimensional multi-objective optimization. The Corsi variation operator improves the algorithm’s capacity to break out of its local optimum. Finally, we have used 12 standard benchmark test functions to evaluate the MaOISSA (Many/Multi-Objective Sparrow Search Algorithm based on Improved reference points) and compared it with many high-dimensional multi-objective algorithms. There were nine with substantial IGD values and eight with significant HV values. The findings revealed that MaOISSA had convergence and variety. The simulated results of the performance model for the defense science and technology innovation ecosystem demonstrate that MaOISSA offers a superior solution for tackling the high-dimensional, multi-objective issue, demonstrating the method’s efficacy.
Complex Job Shop Simulation “CoJoSim”—A Reference Model for Simulating Semiconductor Manufacturing
Authors: Bauer Dennis , Umgelter Daniel , Schlereth Andreas , Bauernhansl Thomas , Sauer Alexander
Published: March 2023

The manufacturing industry is facing increasing volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, while still requiring high delivery reliability to meet customer demands. This is especially challenging for complex job shops in the semiconductor industry, where the manufacturing process is highly intricate, making it difficult to predict the consequences of changes. Although simulation has proven to be an effective tool for optimizing manufacturing processes, reference data sets and models often produce disparate and incomparable results. CoJoSim is introduced in this article as a reference model for semiconductor manufacturing, along with an associated reference implementation that accelerates the implementation and application of the reference model. CoJoSim can serve as a testbed and gold standard for other implementations. Using CoJoSim, different dispatching rules are evaluated to demonstrate an improvement of almost 15 percentage points in adherence to delivery dates compared to the reference. Findings emphasize the importance of optimizing setup time, particularly in products with high variance, as it significantly impacts adherence to delivery dates and throughput. Moving forward, future applications of CoJoSim will evaluate additional dispatching rules and use cases. Combining CoJoSim with dispatching methods that integrate manufacturing and supply networks to optimize production planning and control through reinforcement-learning-based agents is also planned. In conclusion, CoJoSim provides a reliable and effective tool for optimizing semiconductor manufacturing and can serve as a benchmark for future implementations.
Eye Health Screening in Migrant Population: Primary Care Experience in Lazio (Italy) from the PROTECT Project
Authors: Bruscolini Alice , Visioli Giacomo , Marenco Marco , Cherubini Veronica , Comberiati Anna Maria , Palaia Gaspare , Ralli Massimo , Ottolenghi Livia , Lambiase Alessandro , Polimeni Antonella
Published: March 2023

Italy is a natural corridor for entry into Europe, receiving thousands of refugees and migrants needing socio-economic and health assistance yearly. Impaired vision due to eye disease is estimated to affect at least 2.2 billion people worldwide, especially in this underprivileged population. To overcome this deep disparity, new intervention strategies, such as the PROTECT project, were planned with the aim of assessing, in the context of the head–neck area, the eye health in vulnerable applicants and holders of international protection. A total of 3023 migrants were involved in the project. Demographic factors and eye history were collected using a questionnaire. Using portable diagnostic instruments, an eye screening including monocular visual acuity, intraocular pressure, anterior segment, and ocular fundus was performed. The mean age was 31.6 ± 13.1 years and more than 50% underwent the first eye evaluation. Vision impairment was claimed by 16.6% of subjects and the most frequent diseases diagnosed were: refractive errors (11%), strabismus (6%), red eye (6%), cataract (5.3%), and ocular hypertension (1%). Retinal alterations were observed in 5% of migrants. The PROTECT project allows us to increase the accessibility of head–neck disease prevention care. Moreover, our results confirm the utility of an eye screening assessment for early identification of the most relevant and preventable ocular diseases, especially in disadvantaged populations.
Straightness Perception Mechanism of Scraper Conveyor Based on the Three-Dimensional Curvature Sensing of FBG
Authors: Wu Gang , Qiao Fukang , Fang Xinqiu , Liang Minfu , Song Yang
Published: March 2023

In order to solve the key technical problem of accurate perception of the straightness of a scraper conveyor in intelligent mining of coal mines, a three-dimensional (3D) curvature sensor of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) is designed and developed based on the curvature sensing principle of FBG. The grating string embedded in the FBG curvature sensor is simulated under the radius of curvature of 100 m, 200 m, 300 m, 400 m and 500 m. The results show that the strain of the built-in FBG string is linearly related to the curvature at the bend of the FBG string. The simulation results are consistent with the theoretical results, which verifies the rationality of the sensor design. Based on the discrete curvature information obtained by the 3D curvature sensor of FBG, the curve reconstruction algorithm is derived by using the method of fitting recursion, and the bending shape fitting perception and curve reconstruction of the scraper conveyor is realized. A test platform for the three-dimensional bending of the scraper conveyor is set up. The measuring effect of perceived and actual shape at the straight and bending states of the scraper conveyor is verified. The test results show that the measured curve is basically the same as the perceptual curve in the three-dimensional bending configuration of the scraper conveyor, and the error of the direction of each coordinate axis is not more than ±15 mm, which can meet the requirements of the accuracy of detecting the straightness of the intelligent work.