bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Off-Farm Employment, Outsourced Machinery Services, and Farmers’ Ratoon Rice Production Behavior: Evidence from Rice Farmers in Central China
Authors: Shen Xue , Yang Quanyu , Qiu Ting , Ao Rongjun
Published: September 2023

Promoting ratoon rice is a critical measure for ensuring food security in China. Understanding the mechanism underlying farmers’ decision-making involving ratoon rice production may contribute to the design and implementation of extension policies. This study examined the impact of off-farm employment and outsourced machinery services on farmers’ ratoon rice production behavior. We used a representative household survey of 1752 rice farmers in Hubei province in central China and a multinomial endogenous treatment effect model to address potential self-selection biases from both observable and unobservable factors. Our estimates suggest that the probability of ratoon rice production decreases by 17.2% for farmers with off-farm employment, while the probability of ratoon rice production increases by 78.9% and 57% for farmers with outsourced machinery services and those with simultaneous off-farm employment and outsourced machinery services, respectively. Moreover, we found that outsourced machinery services can mitigate the negative impact of agricultural labor aging and feminization on ratoon rice production to some extent. Outsourced machinery services have regional heterogeneity effects as farmers in non-plain areas are more likely to engage in ratoon rice production.
Application of Artificial Neural Networks to Predict Genotypic Values of Soybean Derived from Wide and Restricted Crosses for Relative Maturity Groups
Authors: Amaral Lígia de Oliveira , Miranda Glauco Vieira , Souza Jardel da Silva , Moitinho Alyce Carla Rodrigues , Cristeli Dardânia Soares , Silva Hortência Kardec da , Anjos Rafael Silva Ramos dos , Alliprandini Luis Fernando , Unêda-Trevisoli Sandra Helena
Published: September 2023

The primary objective of soybean-breeding programs is to develop cultivars that offer both high grain yield and a maturity cycle tailored to the specific soil and climatic conditions of their cultivation. Therefore, predicting the genetic value is essential for selecting and advancing promising genotypes. Among the various analytical approaches available, deep machine learning emerges as a promising choice due to its capability to predict the genetic component of phenotypes assessed under field conditions, thereby enhancing the precision of breeding decisions. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of artificial neural networks (ANNs) in predicting the genetic values of soybean genotypes belonging to populations derived from crosses between parents of different relative maturity groups (RMGs). We characterized populations with broad and restricted genetic bases for RMG traits. Data from three soybean populations, evaluated over three different agricultural years, were used. Genetic values were predicted using the multilayer perceptron (MLP) artificial neural network and compared to those obtained using the best unbiased linear prediction from variance components using restricted maximum likelihood (RR-BLUP). The MLP neural network efficiently predicted genetic values for the relative maturity group trait for genotypes belonging to populations of broad and restricted crosses, with an R2 of 0.999 and root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 0.241, and for grain yield, there was an R2 of 0.999 and an RMSE of 0.076. While the percentage of coincident superior genotypes remained relatively consistent, a significant difference was observed in their ranking order. The genetic gain with selection estimated using MLP was higher by 30–110% compared to RR-BLUP for the relative maturity group trait and 90–500% for grain yield. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) showed higher efficiency than RR-BLUP in predicting the genetic values of the soybean population. Local selection at intermediate latitudes is conducive to developing lines adaptable for regions at higher and lower latitudes.
DUOX2-Induced Oxidative Stress Inhibits Intestinal Angiogenesis through MMP3 in a Low-Birth-Weight Piglet Model
Authors: Zou Dongbin , Yang Yun , Ji Fengjie , Lv Renlong , Xu Tieshan , Hu Chengjun
Published: September 2023

Intestinal vessels play a critical role in nutrient absorption, whereas the effect and mechanism of low birth weight (LBW) on its formation remain unclear. Here, twenty newborn piglets were assigned to the control (CON) group (1162 ± 98 g) and LBW group (724 ± 31 g) according to their birth weight. Results showed that the villus height and the activity of maltase in the jejunum were lower in the LBW group than in the CON group. LBW group exhibited a higher oxidative stress level and impaired mitochondrial function in the jejunum and was lower than the CON group in the intestinal vascular density. To investigate the role of oxidative stress in intestinal angiogenesis, H2O2 was employed to induce oxidative stress in porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). The results showed that the conditioned media from IPEC-J2 with H2O2 treatment decreased the angiogenesis of porcine vascular endothelial cells (PVEC). Transcriptome analysis revealed that a higher expression level of dual oxidase 2 (DUOX2) was found in the intestine of LBW piglets. Knockdown of DUOX2 in IPEC-J2 increased the proliferation and decreased the oxidative stress level. In addition, conditioned media from IPEC-J2 with DUOX2-knockdown was demonstrated to promote the angiogenesis of PVEC. Mechanistically, the knockdown of DUOX2 decreased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, thus increasing the angiogenesis in a matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) dependent manner. Conclusively, our results indicated that DUOX2-induced oxidative stress inhibited intestinal angiogenesis through MMP3 in a LBW piglet model.
Knowledge Reasoning via Jointly Modeling Knowledge Graphs and Soft Rules
Authors: Lan Yinyu , He Shizhu , Liu Kang , Zhao Jun
Published: September 2023

Knowledge graphs (KGs) play a crucial role in many applications, such as question answering, but incompleteness is an urgent issue for their broad application. Much research in knowledge graph completion (KGC) has been performed to resolve this issue. The methods of KGC can be classified into two major categories: rule-based reasoning and embedding-based reasoning. The former has high accuracy and good interpretability, but a major challenge is to obtain effective rules on large-scale KGs. The latter has good efficiency and scalability, but it relies heavily on data richness and cannot fully use domain knowledge in the form of logical rules. We propose a novel method that injects rules and learns representations iteratively to take full advantage of rules and embeddings. Specifically, we model the conclusions of rule groundings as 0–1 variables and use a rule confidence regularizer to remove the uncertainty of the conclusions. The proposed approach has the following advantages: (1) It combines the benefits of both rules and knowledge graph embeddings (KGEs) and achieves a good balance between efficiency and scalability. (2) It uses an iterative method to continuously improve KGEs and remove incorrect rule conclusions. Evaluations of two public datasets show that our method outperforms the current state-of-the-art methods, improving performance by 2.7% and 4.3% in mean reciprocal rank (MRR).
The Design of Automotive Interior for Chinese Young Consumers Based on Kansei Engineering and Eye-Tracking Technology
Authors: Song Wenfang , Xie Xinze , Huang Wenyue , Yu Qianqian
Published: September 2023

The reasonable CMF (Color, Material and Finishing) design for automotive interiors could bring positive psychophysical and affective responses of customers, providing an important guideline for automobile enterprises making differentiated products. However, current studies mainly focus on an aspect of CMF design or a single style of the automotive interior, and examined the design mainly through human visual perception. There lack systematic studies on the design and evaluation of automobile interior CMF, and more scientific evaluation of the design through human visual and touching perception was required. Therefore, this study systematically designed the automobile interior CMF based on Kansei engineering and eye-tracking technology. The study consists of five steps: (1) Product positioning: the Chinese young consumers, the new energy vehicles, and bridge and seat are the target users, the automotive model and the key interior components. (2) Kansei physiological measurement: nine groups of Kansei words and thirty-three interior samples were selected, and the interior samples were scored by the Kansei words. (3) Kansei data analysis: three design types were determined, i.e., “hard and stately”, “concise and technological” and “comfortable and safe”. Meanwhile, the CMF design elements of the automotive interiors under the three styles were obtained through mathematical methods. (4) Design practice: four CMF samples under each design style (12 samples) were developed. (5) Kansei evaluation: the design themes were conducted using eye-tracking technology, and the optimal sample that mostly satisfy the user’s Kansei requirements under each style was obtained. The proposed design process of automotive interior CMF may have great implications in the design of automotive interiors.
Corn-Based Gluten-Free Snacks Supplemented with Various Dried Fruits: Characteristics of Physical Properties and Effect of Variables
Authors: Różańska-Boczula Monika , Wójtowicz Agnieszka , Piszcz Magdalena , Soja Jakub , Lewko Piotr , Ignaciuk Szymon , Milanowski Marek , Kupryaniuk Karol , Kasprzak-Drozd Kamila
Published: September 2023

The market of extruded products is constantly growing and the incorporation of fruit items into their recipe, can made a crisp snack product a healthy one of acceptable flavor. The subject of this work is the evaluation of the effects of production screw speed, fruit type and amount on selected physical properties (expansion index, bulk density, water absorption and solubility, texture profile and color balance) of corn-based gluten-free crisps supplemented with various amounts (0–20%) of dried fruits (apple, white mulberry, goji berry, elderberry, blackberry) processed at variable screw speeds (80, 100 and 120 rpm). This work demonstrates that it is possible to obtain marketable extruded snacks with natural color coming from the incorporated dried fruits and with adequate expansion and texture if addition was up to 10% of all the tested fruits. Moreover, very good aeration, crispy texture and acceptable natural color was found if dried elderberry and blackberry were added to snacks even at 15 and 20%. Application of 15 or 20% of apple, white mulberry and goji berries showed similar color profiles and caused decrease in texture and expansion of snacks. The rotational screw speed effect differs significantly only in hardness and cutting force of the supplemented corn crisps.
Countermovement Rebound Jump: A Comparison of Joint Work and Joint Contribution to the Countermovement and Drop Jump Tests
Authors: Xu Jiaqing , Turner Anthony , Comyns Thomas M. , Harry John R. , Chavda Shyam , Bishop Chris
Published: September 2023

The kinetic analysis of joint work and joint contribution provides practitioners with information regarding movement characteristics and strategies of any jump test that is undertaken. This study aimed to compare joint works and contributions, and performance metrics in the countermovement jump (CMJ), drop jump (DJ), and countermovement rebound jump CMRJ. Thirty-three participants completed 18 jumps across two testing sessions. Jump height and strategy-based metrics (time to take-off [TTTO], countermovement depth [CM depth], and ground contact time [GCT]) were measured. Two-way analysis of variance assessed systematic bias between jump types and test sessions (α = 0.05). Reliability was evaluated via intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] and coefficient of variation [CV]. Jump height and strategy-based metrics demonstrated good to excellent reliability (ICC = 0.82–0.98) with moderate CV (≤8.64%). Kinetic variables exhibited moderate to excellent reliability (ICC = 0.64–0.93) with poor to moderate CV (≤25.04%). Moreover, apart from TTTO (p ≤ 0.027, effect size [ES] = 0.49–0.62) that revealed significant differences between jump types, CM depth (p ≤ 0.304, ES = 0.27–0.32) and GCT (p ≤ 0.324, ES = 0.24) revealed nonsignificant trivial to small differences between three jumps in both sessions. Finally, the negative and positive hip and knee works, and positive ankle contribution measured in the CMRJ showed significant differences from the CMJ and DJ (p ≤ 0.048, g ≤ 0.71), with no significant difference observed in other kinetic variables between the three jump actions (p ≥ 0.086). Given the consistent joint works and joint contributions between jump types, the findings suggest that practitioners can utilize the CMRJ as a viable alternative to CMJ and DJ tests, and the CMRJ test offers valuable insights into movement characteristics and training suggestions.
What Indicators Are Shaping China’s National World-Class High-Tech Zones? Constructing a Feature Indicator System Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Feng Sida , Park Hyunseok , Han Fang
Published: September 2023

China’s high-tech parks have significant effects on driving national ecological innovation. Among them, ten world-class high-tech parks represent the highest level of development in China’s high-tech industry. Understanding the development characteristics of national world-class high-tech parks is of great significance for guiding the construction of other parks and achieving the high-quality development of parks. Based on the evaluation data of over 200 indicators of national high-tech parks from 2013 to 2017, this study used the XGBoost classic machine learning algorithm to select the characteristic indicators of national world-class high-tech parks and establish an evaluation indicator system, and it identified four primary indicators of the world-class high-tech parks, including innovation development, enterprise development, international development, and economic development. The indicators cover 30 important sub-indicators and highlight the importance of innovation resource input indicators, such as “use of technology activity funding from government departments”, “full-time equivalent of R&D personnel”, and “financial technology expenditure in high-tech parks”. Compared to the expert analysis, the application of the machine learning method in the evaluation of national high-tech parks improves the efficiency of selecting important indicators and makes the selection results more objective. The results of this research provide a reference value for guiding and promoting national high-tech parks to become world-class parks.
An Integrated Optimization Method of High-Speed Railway Rescheduling Problem at the Network Level
Authors: Zhao Wenqiang , Zhou Leishan , Guo Bin , Yue Yixiang , Han Chang , Wang Zeyu , Mo Yuxin
Published: September 2023

For high-speed railway operations at the network level, unforeseen events that lead to operation interruptions are inevitable, which should be handled within a short period of time to reduce the influence of the events as much as possible. This paper introduces an integrated optimization method to deal with rescheduling problems at the railway network level under emergencies, rescheduling the train timetable, and utilizing the train sets. train set A three-objective optimization model is proposed with the aim of minimizing additional operation costs, total delay, and the number of transfer passengers. Then, an algorithm based on NSGA-III is proposed to solve the model. Computational experiments on real data are conducted to show the adaptability of the model and algorithm. The average optimization rate of the three objectives is 12.12%, 14.12%, and 10.57%, indicating the effectiveness of the method. Moreover, more experiments on a railway network in China are being conducted to analyze which section and which time have the greatest impact on the railway network when emergencies occur. According to the experiment, the bottleneck section is section 15, and the bottleneck time is 11:00 am. In addition, the importance of all the depots is discussed, and depot II is selected as the most important depot.
Optimizing Moss and Lichen Transplants as Biomonitors of Airborne Anthropogenic Microfibers
Authors: Capozzi Fiore , Sorrentino Maria Cristina , Granata Angelo , Vergara Alessandro , Alberico Miriam , Rossi Manuela , Spagnuolo Valeria , Giordano Simonetta
Published: September 2023

Anthropogenic microfibers (mfs) are synthetic particles composed of cellulose (cotton, rayon, acetate, etc.) or petrochemical-based polymers (i.e., microplastics—MPs) that are less than 5 mm in length. The accumulation of mfs, including MPs, in the moss Hypnum cupressiforme and the lichen Pseudevernia furfuracea was compared in a transplant experiment lasting 6 weeks. We also tested the effects of the bag used for transplants on the accumulation of mfs. Anthropogenic particles trapped by both biomonitors were mostly filamentous (99% mfs), and their number was overall higher in the moss (mean ± s.d. 102 ± 24) than in the lichen (mean ± s.d. 87 ± 17), at parity of sample weight. On average, mfs found in lichen were significantly longer than those found in moss bags, suggesting that lichens are less efficient at retaining smaller mfs. Exposure without the net yielded a higher mfs number accumulation in both species, indicating that “naked” transplants provide greater sensitivity. The calculation of daily fluxes evidenced a loss of mfs in the lichen, suggesting the presence of more stable bonds between moss and mfs. Raman microspectroscopy carried out on about 100 debris confirms the anthropogenic nature of mfs, of which 20% were MPs. Overall results indicate that moss is preferable to lichen in the biomonitoring of airborne mfs especially when exposed naked.
Reactive Oxygen Species-Dependent Activation of EGFR/Akt/p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase and JNK1/2/FoxO1 and AP-1 Pathways in Human Pulmonary Alveolar Epithelial Cells Leads to Up-Regulation of COX-2/PGE2 Induced by Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Yan-Jyun , Yang Chien-Chung , Lee I-Ta , Wu Wen-Bin , Lin Chih-Chung , Hsiao Li-Der , Yang Chuen-Mao
Published: September 2023

The risk of lung exposure to silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) and related lung inflammatory injury is increasing with the wide application of SiNPs in a variety of industries. A growing body of research has revealed that cyclooxygenase (COX)-2/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) up-regulated by SiNP toxicity has a role during pulmonary inflammation. The detailed mechanisms underlying SiNP-induced COX-2 expression and PGE2 synthesis remain unknown. The present study aims to dissect the molecular components involved in COX-2/PGE2 up-regulated by SiNPs in human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiCs) which are one of the major targets while SiNPs are inhaled. In the present study, we demonstrated that SiNPs induced COX-2 expression and PGE2 release, which were inhibited by pretreatment with a reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger (edaravone) or the inhibitors of proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2, PF-431396), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, AG1478), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K, LY294002), protein kinase B (Akt, Akt inhibitor VIII), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) (p38 MAPK inhibitor VIII), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK)1/2 (SP600125), Forkhead Box O1 (FoxO1, AS1842856), and activator protein 1 (AP-1, Tanshinone IIA). In addition, we also found that SiNPs induced ROS-dependent Pyk2, EGFR, Akt, p38 MAPK, and JNK1/2 activation in these cells. These signaling pathways induced by SiNPs could further cause c-Jun and FoxO1 activation and translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus. AP-1 and FoxO1 activation could increase COX-2 and PGE2 levels induced by SiNPs. Finally, the COX-2/PGE2 axis might promote the inflammatory responses in HPAEpiCs. In conclusion, we suggested that SiNPs induced COX-2 expression accompanied by PGE2 synthesis mediated via ROS/Pyk2/EGFR/PI3K/Akt/p38 MAPK- and JNK1/2-dependent FoxO1 and AP-1 activation in HPAEpiCs.
Gut Microbiota Alteration and Its Modulation with Probiotics in Celiac Disease
Authors: Saviano Angela , Petruzziello Carmine , Brigida Mattia , Morabito Loprete Maria Rita , Savioli Gabriele , Migneco Alessio , Ojetti Veronica
Published: September 2023

Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic inflammation of the small intestine triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed people. Recent literature studies highlight the possible role of the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of this disease. The gut microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms that can interact with the innate and adaptative immune systems. A condition of dysbiosis, which refers to an alteration in the composition and function of the human gut microbiota, can lead to a dysregulated immune response. This condition may contribute to triggering gluten intolerance, favoring the development and/or progression of CD in genetically susceptible patients. Interestingly, studies on children and adults with CD showed a different microbiome profile in fecal samples, with a different degree of “activity” for the disease. From this point of view, our review aimed to collect and discuss modern evidence about the alteration of the gut microbiota and its modulation with probiotics, with possible future indications in the management of patients affected by CD.
Crossroad between the Heat Shock Protein and Inflammation Pathway in Acquiring Drug Resistance: A Possible Target for Future Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Somu Prathap , Basavegowda Nagaraj , Gomez Levin Anbu , Jayaprakash Hulikunte Veeranna , Puneetha Gangadahosahalli Krishnegowda , Yadav Akhilesh Kumar , Paul Subhankar , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: September 2023

The development of multidrug resistance (MDR) against chemotherapeutic agents has become a major impediment in cancer therapy. Understanding the underlying mechanism behind MDR can guide future treatment for cancer with better therapeutic outcomes. Recent studies evidenced that crossroads interaction between the heat shock proteins (HSP) and inflammatory responses under the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in modulating drug responsiveness and drug resistance through a complex cytological process. This review aims to investigate the interrelationship between inflammation and HSP in acquiring multiple drug resistance and investigate strategies to overcome the drug resistance to improve the efficacy of cancer treatment. HSP plays a dual regulatory effect as an immunosuppressive and immunostimulatory agent, involving the simultaneous blockade of multiple signaling pathways in acquiring MDR. For example, HSP27 shows biological effects on monocytes by causing IL10 and TNFα secretion and blocking monocyte differentiation to normal dendritic cells and tumor-associated macrophages to promote cancer progression and chemoresistance. Thus, the HSP function and immune-checkpoint release modalities provide a therapeutic target for a therapeutically beneficial approach for enhancing anti-tumor immune responses. The interconnection between inflammation and HSP, along with the tumor microenvironment in acquiring drug resistance, has become crucial for rationalizing the effect of HSP immunomodulatory activity with immune checkpoint blockade. This relationship can overcome drug resistance and assist in the development of novel combinatorial cancer immunotherapy in fighting cancer with decreasing mortality rates.
Hydrocortisone Mitigates Alzheimer’s-Related Cognitive Decline through Modulating Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Li Jinran , Chen Long , Liu Sai , Sun Yuan , Zhen Le , Zhu Zheying , Wang Guangji , Li Xinuo
Published: September 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), an age-related degenerative disorder, is characterized by β-amyloid deposition, abnormal phosphorylation of tau proteins, synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Despite extensive research, there are no medications or therapeutic interventions to completely treat and reverse AD. Herein, we explore the potential of hydrocortisone (HC), a natural and endogenous glucocorticoid known to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, in an Aβ1–42-induced AD mouse model. Our investigation highlights the beneficial effects of HC administration on cognitive impairment, synaptic function enhancement, and neuronal protection in Aβ1–42-induced AD mice. Notably, HC treatment effectively suppresses the hyperactivation of microglia and astrocytes, leading to a reduction in proinflammatory factors and alleviation of neuroinflammation. Furthermore, HC intervention demonstrates the capacity to mitigate the generation of ROS and oxidative stress. These compelling findings underscore the potential therapeutic application of HC in AD and present promising opportunities for its utilization in AD prevention and treatment. The implications drawn from our findings indicate that hydrocortisone holds promise as a viable candidate for adjunctive use with other anti-AD drugs for the clinical management of patients presenting with moderate to severe AD.
Asserting a Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder with a Complementary Diagnostic Approach: A Brief Report
Authors: Ogrizek Anais , Ros Thomas , Ludot Maude , Moro Marie-Rose , Hatchuel Yves , Gomez Nicolas Garofalo , Radjack Rahmeth , Felix Arthur
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD) is a common diagnosis among adolescents. However, we feel it is a difficult diagnosis to assess because of the diversity of its clinical manifestations, the rapid changes in its nosography over the years, and its common imbrication with established somatic diagnoses. We would like to illustrate this hypothesis through a case presentation and the original diagnostic process that emerged from it. Methods: We chose to present our diagnosis approach through the case of an 11-year-old boy who showed a progressive loss of motor and sensory function to the point of total dependency, and then suddenly switched between this state and a “normal” physical presentation, while deliriously claiming to be an angel. Results: All possible infectious, autoimmune, metabolic, and toxic disorders were ruled out. After the successive therapeutic failures of antidepressants and neuroleptics, FNSD was diagnosed. Conclusion: The DSM-5-TR classification was insufficient to explain the full clinical picture and a complementary approach (biblical, psychoanalytical, and historical) was used to analyze the cause of this atypical presentation.
Global Riverine Archaeology and Cultural Heritage: Flood-Risk Management and Adaptation for the Anthropogenic Climate Change Crisis
Authors: Carmichael Bethune , Daly Cathy , Fatorić Sandra , Macklin Mark , McIntyre-Tamwoy Sue , Pittungnapoo Witiya
Published: September 2023

Significant riverine archaeological sites around the world are vulnerable to flooding associated with climate change. However, identifying sites most at risk is not straightforward. We critically review the parameters used in 22 published analyses of risk to riverine archaeology from climate change (ARRACC). Covering 17 countries globally, the ARRACC’s risk parameters are highly variable. Proximity to rivers and projected changes to extreme flood frequency are the most commonly employed. However, to be robust, future ARRACC should select from a wider range of hazard parameters, including channel mobility/type, erosion/sedimentation patterns, land use and engineering works, as well as parameters for site sensitivity to flooding and heritage significance. To assist in this, we propose a basic field survey for ARRACC, to be treated primarily as a conceptual checklist or as a starting point for a bespoke ARRACC method adapted for a particular river and the objectives of local stakeholders. The framework proposes a pathway to optimal prioritisation of sites most in need of adaptation so that scarce management resources can be targeted.
Can Hydrogen Water Enhance Oxygen Saturation in Patients with Chronic Lung Disease? A Non-Randomized, Observational Pilot Study
Authors: Singh Ram B. , Tarnava Alex , Fatima Ghizal , Fedacko Jan , Mojto Viliam , LeBaron Tyler W.
Published: September 2023

Background: Recently, chronic lung diseases have been found to be associated with marked inflammation and oxidative stress, which leads to fibrosis in the lungs and chronic respiratory failure. This study aims to determine if hydrogen-rich water (HRW) can enhance oxygen saturation among patients with chronic lung diseases. Methods: Ten patients with chronic lung diseases due to COPD (n = 7), bronchial asthma (n = 2), and tuberculosis of the lung (n = 1) with oxygen saturation of 90–95% were provided high-concentration (>5 mM) HRW using H2-producing tablets for 4 weeks. Oxygen saturation was measured via oximeter and blood pressure via digital automatic BP recorder. Results: HRW administration was associated with a significant increase in oxygen saturation (SpO2) and decrease in TBARS, MDA, and diene conjugates, with an increase in vitamin E and nitrite levels, compared to baseline levels. Physical training carried out after HRW therapy appeared to increase exercise tolerance and decrease hypoxia, as well as delay the need for oxygen therapy. Conclusion: Treatment with HRW in patients with hypoxia from chronic lung diseases may decrease oxidative stress and improve oxygen saturation in some patients. HRW therapy may also provide increased exercise tolerance in patients with chronic hypoxia, but further research is needed.
Fostering Perceptions of Gender through Cooperative Learning
Authors: Puiggalí Joan , Tesouro Montse , Cañabate Dolors , Colomer Jordi
Published: September 2023

This article explores, quantitatively and qualitatively, how gender-neutral groups of pre-service teachers in homogenous and heterogeneous cooperative learning prioritize individual responsibility, promotive interaction, and positive interdependence. The study took place in the 2022–2023 academic year. The participants in this study were 535 pre-service teachers registered on Kindergarten, Primary, and Secondary Education undergraduate degree courses in the Faculty of Education and Psychology (FEP) at the University of Girona. In the study, the CAC instrument (20 items) was applied along with 11 items that were added. The results indicated that the participants scored higher in all the categories of cooperative learning when they were in homogenous groups than when in heterogeneous ones. Female students scored higher than male or non-binary students in all the cooperative learning categories in both types of cooperative structure. In both settings, female students valued individual responsibility higher, while non-binary individuals valued it lowest. Male students valued individual responsibility higher when working in heterogeneous groups. Most students believed that their role did not change when carrying out cooperative challenges. However, among those who did believe that their role altered, the majority were female. The study shows that while female, non-binary, and male pre-service teachers are equally sociable, they develop social skills differently. Diversity in educational institutions should therefore be taken into account as an influence on tertiary students’ development and success in later life.
Teachers’ Perceptions of the Cultural Capital of Children and Families with Immigrant Backgrounds in Early Childhood Education
Authors: Lavanti Lassi , Harju-Luukkainen Heidi , Kuusisto Arniika
Published: September 2023

Finnish society has become increasingly diverse relatively recently, notably during the past few decades. This paper explores the perceptions of early childhood education and care (ECEC) teachers (n = 11) about the cultural capital of those children and families growing up in immigrant background families and their sense of belonging in early childhood settings in Finland. We draw on curriculum frameworks to understand these constructs. The paper utilises Bourdieu’s concept of cultural capital to conceptualise the sense of belonging for children and families with an immigrant background in Finnish ECEC. The interviews consisted of two pairs and two group interviews with teachers from four ECEC centres, each including two to four ECEC teachers. The data analysis is based on a constructivist grounded theory (CGT) informed content analysis. This approach shows how ECEC teachers’ pedagogical practices guide immigrant families and children in Finland towards a national identity. The findings indicate that play and language learning facilitated the development of cultural capital. Nonetheless, it is crucial to investigate the family viewpoint in the future.
Siamese Neural Network for User Authentication in Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) for Wearable Applications
Authors: Choi Hyun-Sik
Published: September 2023

User authentication has traditionally been performed using methods such as passwords or fingerprints. However, passwords have security vulnerabilities, and fingerprints may hinder user convenience. To address these issues, a novel user authentication method based on biosignals, specifically electromyogram (EMG) signals, is proposed. Using biosignals like EMG offers several advantages, including the ability to acquire data without user awareness, independence from the user’s environment, rapid acquisition, and enhanced security. However, one challenge with using EMG signals for authentication has been their relatively low accuracy. In this paper, a neural network is implemented using a small number of parameters (fewer than 7000) to produce a wearable device using biosignals, and user authentication accuracy is secured using the maximal overlap discrete wavelet transform (MODWT) method and the Siamese network. The MODWT method is highly effective for the time and frequency analysis of time series data, and the Siamese network is a representative method for few-shot learning. The proposed neural network is verified using Chosun University’s user authentication dataset, encompassing data from 100 individuals. Finally, this proposed network is implemented on an edge device such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) so that it can be applied to a wearable user authentication system. By implementing the Siamese network in FPGA-based edge devices, it was possible to secure user authentication performance at 94% accuracy and an authentication speed within 1.5 ms. In the case of accuracy, it is expected to be further improved by using the multimodal technique of biosignals. Also, the proposed system can be easily fabricated for digital integrated chips (ICs).
Explicit Definitions for the Electromagnetic Energies in Electromagnetic Radiation and Mutual Coupling
Authors: Xiao Gaobiao , Liu Rui
Published: September 2023

It is still difficult to accurately evaluate the reactive electromagnetic energy and the radiative electromagnetic energy of a radiator, because there are no explicit expressions for them. This paper proposes to borrow the energy concept in the charged particle theory and separate the total electromagnetic energy of a radiator into three parts: a Coulomb–velocity energy, a radiative energy and a macroscopic Schott energy. Consequently, the Poynting vector is considered to include a real radiative power flow by the radiative energy and a pseudo power flow caused by the fluctuation of the reactive energy. The energies involved in the electromagnetic mutual coupling are separated in a similar way. All energies are defined with explicit expressions in which the vector potential plays an important role. The time domain formulation and the frequency domain formulation of the theory are consistent with each other. The theory is verified with the Hertzian dipole. Numerical examples demonstrate that this theory may provide proper interpretations for electromagnetic radiation and mutual coupling problems.
A Dual-Band Low-Profile Microstrip Antenna with Fan-Shaped and Rectangular Beams
Authors: Li Xue-Ping , Li Meng-Meng , Ji Jun-Fei , Sun Qian-Qian , Li Wei , Zhang An-Xue
Published: September 2023

In this article, a dual-frequency microstrip antenna capable of radiating sector beams and rectangular beams is designed. Firstly, the characteristic mode of microstrip antennas is analyzed, and the principle of half-power beam width (HPBW) enhancement of microstrip antennas is studied from the mode combination theory. Studies have shown that when multiple eigenmodes are excited simultaneously at the same frequency point, the radiation modes can be combined to widen the E-plane HPBW. The measurement results indicate that the S11 of the antenna in the two frequency bands is less than −25 dB. In particular, the microstrip antenna E-plane HPBW of the design received a 60° extension. While radiating a wide fan bundle at low frequency points, the HPBW of the E plane extends significantly to 141°. Radiate rectangular beams at high frequency points have an H-plane HPBW beam width of 90° and an E-plane HPBW beam width of 100°.
Exploration of the Wild Edible Plants Used for Basic Health Care by Local People of Bahawalpur and Adjacent Regions, Pakistan
Authors: Anwar Tauseef , Qureshi Huma , Naeem Hafsa , Shahzadi Sumbal , Sehar Zobia , Hassan Rubeena
Published: September 2023

The current study aimed to explore the traditional knowledge and practices of indigenous communities in Bahawalpur and adjacent regions, Pakistan, to treat a variety of diseases with a particular focus on the usage of ethnomedicinal wild plants. The objective of the study was to collect and evaluate local and indigenous knowledge regarding the quantity, variety, use and management of resources by the people. Data were gathered using Rapid Appraisal Approach (RAA), which involved in-person interviews. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics methods as well as common ethnobotanical analytical techniques viz. use value (UV), relative frequency of citation (RFC), informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), relative importance (RI), frequency index (FI), family use value (FUV), family importance value (FIV), popular therapeutic use value (POPUT), plant part value (PPV), preference ranking (PR), cultural significance index (CSI), rank order priority (ROP) and Jaccard index (JI). A total of 158 plant species from 49 families were identified. The perennial herbs made up 72% of the documented species of therapeutic plants. There were 21 different species in each of the two major plant families i.e., Fabaceae and Poaceae. The maximum ICF were calculated for gonorrhea and paralysis (1.0) and maximum POPUT was calculated for skin disorders (0.088) and cough (0.077), respectively. The maximum UV was found for Rumex crispus (0.57) and RI for Leucaena leucocephala (4.38). Heliotropium crispum had the highest FL value (83%) and is used to treat kidney diseases. Alhagi maurorum had the greatest RFC (0.009) and FI (0.93). Arecaceae (0.45) and Fabaceae (13.39%) had the greatest FUV while Poaceae and Fabaceae had the highest FIV (13.29 for each). Leaves were the most frequently used plant part (35%). Alhagi maurorum (4.0) and Rumex crispus (32.57) had the highest CSI and ROP, respectively. The maximum JI (28.31) was calculated for Cholistan desert. These results showed the local population’s reliance on herbal remedies to treat prevalent illnesses. To demonstrate the viability of species, it′s crucial to emphasize both the use and conservation of these species. Adopting innovative applications, enhancing their value, and prioritizing the protection of multipurpose wild plants in inhabited environments is vital.
Advancements in Sample Preparation Methods for the Chromatographic and Mass Spectrometric Determination of Zearalenone and Its Metabolites in Food: An Overview
Authors: Lou Yifeng , Xu Qingyang , Chen Jiaqi , Yang Sen , Zhu Zheng , Chen Di
Published: September 2023

Zearalenone and its metabolites are mycotoxins generated by Fusarium species while crops are growing and can typically be found in various foods, posing a risk to human health. Governments have implemented stricter regulations concerning the permissible levels of zearalenone in food products to safeguard public health. Stricter regulations on zearalenone levels in food have been implemented. However, detecting zearalenone and its metabolites remains challenging due to sample complexity and interference. Surprisingly few reviews of sample preparation methods for zearalenone in food have appeared in the past decade. In this overview, we outline the most recent developments in the sample pre-treatment technology of zearalenone and its metabolites in food samples based on chromatography–mass spectrometry methods since 2012. This review covers some prominent technologies, such as liquid–liquid extraction-based methods, solid-phase extraction-based methods, and QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe) extraction, providing valuable insights into their advantages and limitations for potential applications. The assessment of the methods discussed, along with an overview of current challenges and prospects, will guide researchers in advancing the field and ensuring safer food quality for consumers worldwide.
Edible Coatings as a Natural Packaging System to Improve Fruit and Vegetable Shelf Life and Quality
Authors: Perez-Vazquez Ana , Barciela Paula , Carpena Maria , Prieto Miguel
Published: September 2023

In the past years, consumers have increased their interest in buying healthier food products, rejecting those products with more additives and giving preference to the fresh ones. Moreover, the current environmental situation has made society more aware of the importance of reducing the production of plastic and food waste. In this way and considering the food industry’s need to reduce food spoilage along the food chain, edible coatings have been considered eco-friendly food packaging that can replace traditional plastic packaging, providing an improvement in the product’s shelf life. Edible coatings are thin layers applied straight onto the food material’s surface that are made of biopolymers that usually incorporate other elements, such as nanoparticles or essential oils, to improve their physicochemical properties. These materials must provide a barrier that can prevent the passage of water vapor and other gasses, microbial growth, moisture loss, and oxidation so shelf life can be extended. The aim of this review was to compile the current data available to give a global vision of the formulation process and the different ways to improve the characteristics of the coats applied to both fruits and vegetables. In this way, the suitability of compounds in by-products produced in the food industry chain were also considered for edible coating production.
Effect of Different Temperatures on the Storage Stability of Flaxseed Milk
Authors: Meng Chen , Chen Yashu , Wang Xintian , Chen Hongjian , Deng Qianchun
Published: September 2023

In this study, the physical and oxidative stability of flaxseed milk without food additives at different temperatures (25 °C and 37 °C) was assessed. Over in 206 days in storage, the particle size, Turbiscan stability index (TSI), centrifugal sedimentation rate, and primary and secondary oxidation products of flaxseed milk increased, viscosity decreased, and the absolute value of the potential first decreased and then increased. These phenomena indicated a gradual decrease in the physical stability of flaxseed milk, accompanied by drastic oxidative changes. The antioxidant capacity of flaxseed milk was related to the location of the physical distribution of flaxseed lignin, which was more effective in the aqueous phase compared to the non-aqueous phase. Interestingly, after 171 days in storage at 37 °C, the particle size of flaxseed milk was approximately doubled (6.98 μm → 15.27 μm) and the absolute value of the potential reached its lowest point (−13.49 mV), when the content of primary oxidation products reached its maximum (8.29 mmol/kg oil). The results showed that temperature had a significant effect on the stability of flaxseed milk and that stability decreased with increasing temperature and shortened shelf life. This work provides a theoretical basis for elucidating the stabilization–destabilization mechanism of flaxseed milk.
Directed Modification of a GHF11 Thermostable Xylanase AusM for Enhancing Inhibitory Resistance towards SyXIP-I and Application of AusMPKK in Bread Making
Authors: Zhang Dong , Huang Jing , Liu Youyi , Chen Xingyi , Gao Tiecheng , Li Ning , Huang Weining , Wu Minchen
Published: September 2023

To reduce the inhibition sensitivity of a thermoresistant xylanase AusM to xylanase inhibitor protein (XIP)-type in wheat flour, the site-directed mutagenesis was conducted based on the computer-aided redesign. First, fourteen single-site variants and one three-amino acid replacement variant in the thumb region of an AusM-encoding gene (AusM) were constructed and expressed in E. coli BL21(DE3), respectively, as predicted theoretically. At a molar ratio of 100:1 between SyXIP-I/xylanase, the majority of mutants were nearly completely inactivated by the inhibitor SyXIP-I, whereas AusMN127A retained 62.7% of its initial activity and AusMPKK retained 100% of its initial activity. The optimal temperature of the best mutant AusMPKK was 60 °C, as opposed to 60–65 °C for AusM, while it exhibited improved thermostability, retaining approximately 60% of its residual activity after heating at 80 °C for 60 min. Furthermore, AusMPKK at a dosage of 1000 U/kg was more effective than AusM at 4000 U/kg in increasing specific bread loaf volume and reducing hardness during bread production and storage. Directed evolution of AusM significantly reduces inhibition sensitivity, and the mutant enzyme AusMPKK is conducive to improving bread quality and extending its shelf life.
Orthodontic Internal Resorption Assessment in Periodontal Breakdown—A Finite Elements Analysis (Part II)
Authors: Moga Radu Andrei , Delean Ada Gabriela , Buru Stefan Marius , Botez Mircea Daniel , Olteanu Cristian Doru
Published: September 2023

This finite elements analysis (FEA) assessed the accuracy of maximum shear stress criteria (Tresca) in the study of orthodontic internal surface resorption and the absorption–dissipation ability of dental tissues. The present study was conducted over eighty-one models totaling 324 simulations with various bone loss levels (0–8 mm), where 0.6 N and 1.2 N were applied in the intrusion, extrusion, rotation, tipping, and translation movements. Tresca criteria displayed localized high-stress areas prone to resorption for all situations, better visible in the dentine component. The internal resorptive risks are less than external ones, seeming to increase with the progression of the periodontal breakdown, especially after 4 mm. The internal and external surface high-stress areas are strictly correlated. The qualitative stress display for both forces was almost similar. The rotation and tipping displayed the highest resorptive risks for the pulp chamber, decreasing with bone loss. The resorptive risks seem to increase along with the progression of periodontal breakdown if the same applied force is kept. The dentine resemblance to ductile based on its high absorption–dissipation ability seems correct. Tresca seems to supply a better predictability of the prone-to-resorption areas than the other failure criteria.