bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problems and Opportunities within the Wine Industry in Terms of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Synák František
Published: March 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected and still affects various sectors, including the agricultural sector. A specific industry deriving from agriculture is the wine industry. The purpose of this article is to find out and analyse the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the wine sector, especially regarding the Slovakia wine sector. To achieve this, a wide literary research study was conducted through which an overview of the global wine industry situation was obtained. Subsequently, the impact of COVID-19 on a selected wine business in the Slovak Republic was determined via interviewing. The findings were further analysed and compared with the situations of other Slovak and foreign wineries. It follows from the observations that both risk diversification within supplying and purchasing relations and the business’s essential need to adapt to new circumstances under adverse conditions are very important factors. The article’s contribution lies in a summarization of the problems and opportunities within the wineries as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, based on a wide literary research review and interviews with an employee of the large wine company, and the conclusions can also be applied to other agricultural industries.
Using Digital Image Analysis to Estimate Corn Ear Traits in Agrotechnical Field Trials: The Case with Harvest Residues and Fertilization Regimes
Authors: Dunđerski Dušan , Jaćimović Goran , Crnobarac Jovan , Visković Jelena , Latković Dragana
Published: March 2023

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the feasibility of digital image analysis (DIA) as a substitute for standard analysis (SA) in assessing corn ear traits in agrotechnical field trials. Accurate and timely prediction of corn yield through corn ear traits can lead to precise agricultural management recommendations for the improvement of production. Four replications with 10 plots each were subjected to different fertilization regimes and analyzed using DIA and SA to determine the kernel number per ear (KN), ear length (EL), and ear diameter (ED). For both methods, the results showed that only nitrogen doses had a significant effect on the examined corn ear traits, and the correlation matrix revealed a strong and significant relationship between yield and corn ear traits. The post-hoc test showed no discrepancy in cases between the two methods for KN and EL, with a 6.7% discrepancy for ED. For both methods, a linear plateau was the best fit for KN and EL with increasing nitrogen doses, whereas a quadratic plateau was the best fit for ED. The regression equations for both methods provided similar recommendations regarding nitrogen requirements. The findings suggest that DIA can be used as a substitute for SA of corn ear traits obtained from different fertilization variants and can provide nitrogen fertilization recommendations for optimal corn yields.
Exploring the Research Challenges and Perspectives in Ecophysiology of Plants Affected by Salinity Stress
Authors: Trușcă Mădălina , Gâdea Ștefania , Vidican Roxana , Stoian Vlad , Vâtcă Anamaria , Balint Claudia , Stoian Valentina Ancuța , Horvat Melinda , Vâtcă Sorin
Published: March 2023

Soil salinization processes have increased over the years and affect large parts of agricultural fields. The purpose of this review was to highlight the most important aspects regarding the potential effects of soil salinity on plants. In the current context of climate change, extreme weather and increased drought periods can lead to plant metabolic dysfunctionalities and accumulation of salt ions because of the increasing need for irrigation. The most important limiting factor, salinity, has a highly negative impact on plant growth independent of the appearance of either natural or anthropic status. The negative aspects include decreased leaf development rate, a low water level in all parts of the plant, reduced cell division and elongation, and low-intensity photosynthetic rate. Other negative aspects are directly related to stomata closure, reduced transpiration, low CO2 level, and limitations on seed germination. However, there are also some positive aspects to the presence of salinity in soil. The field offers unlimited possibilities of research in order to activate pathways that help plants become resistant to salt stress. Several physiological parameters can benefit from low salt concentration (halopriming), such as germination, vigor, rapid seedling growth, and increased stomata number. Further studies should focus on both the positive and negative aspects of the increase in soil salinity.
EffiMob-Net: A Deep Learning-Based Hybrid Model for Detection and Identification of Tomato Diseases Using Leaf Images
Authors: Ullah Zahid , Alsubaie Najah , Jamjoom Mona , Alajmani Samah H. , Saleem Farrukh
Published: March 2023

As tomatoes are the most consumed vegetable in the world, production should be increased to fulfill the vast demand for this vegetable. Global warming, climate changes, and other significant factors, including pests, badly affect tomato plants and cause various diseases that ultimately affect the production of this vegetable. Several strategies and techniques have been adopted for detecting and averting such diseases to ensure the survival of tomato plants. Recently, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly contributed to agronomy in the detection of tomato plant diseases through leaf images. Deep learning (DL)-based techniques have been largely utilized for detecting tomato leaf diseases. This paper proposes a hybrid DL-based approach for detecting tomato plant diseases through leaf images. To accomplish the task, this study presents the fusion of two pretrained models, namely, EfficientNetB3 and MobileNet (referred to as the EffiMob-Net model) to detect tomato leaf diseases accurately. In addition, model overfitting was handled using various techniques, such as regularization, dropout, and batch normalization (BN). Hyperparameter tuning was performed to choose the optimal parameters for building the best-fitting model. The proposed hybrid EffiMob-Net model was tested on a plant village dataset containing tomato leaf disease and healthy images. This hybrid model was evaluated based on the best classifier with respect to accuracy metrics selected for detecting the diseases. The success rate of the proposed hybrid model for accurately detecting tomato leaf diseases reached 99.92%, demonstrating the model’s ability to extract features accurately. This finding shows the reliability of the proposed hybrid model as an automatic detector for tomato plant diseases that can significantly contribute to providing better solutions for detecting other crop diseases in the field of agriculture.
Development of an N-Free Culture Solution for Cultivation of Nodulated Soybean with Less pH Fluctuation by the Addition of Potassium Bicarbonate
Authors: Ohyama Takuji , Takayama Koyo , Akagi Ayaka , Saito Akihiro , Higuchi Kyoko , Sato Takashi
Published: March 2023

Soybean plants can grow by solely depending on fixed N2 through their root nodules, a symbiotic organ with rhizobia. In this study, when nodulated soybeans were cultivated using hydroponics and an N-free culture solution, the pH rapidly decreased to 4.0, which may be harmful for root growth and nutrient absorption. Therefore, we prepared a new N-free culture solution characterized by less pH fluctuation due to the addition of potassium bicarbonate. A total of 1–2 mM sodium bicarbonate optimized the pH between 6 and 7. However, the solution pH increased to 8–9 during soybean cultivation when 5–20 mM of sodium bicarbonate was applied. The addition of potassium bicarbonate did not affect the dry weight of each organ. The evapotranspiration rate of the plants with bicarbonate on the 37th day after planting was higher than that of the control without bicarbonate. When the K2SO4 was replaced by KHCO3, the pH just after preparation ranged between 6.3 and 6.5, while that after cultivation for two days ranged frp, about 6.1 to 6.5. It was found that more than half of the bicarbonate remained in the culture solution after 3 days of cultivation. The optimum P concentrations for the modified culture solution were found to be 50 and 100 μM, while the P concentrations over 150 μM reduced the plant growth and led to yellowing in the lower leaves.
The Effect of Enrichment on Leopard Geckos (Eublepharis macularius) Housed in Two Different Maintenance Systems (Rack System vs. Terrarium)
Authors: Zieliński Damian
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to test the usefulness of environmental enrichment for Eublepharis macularius depending on the maintenance method (terrarium vs. rack system). The hypothesis was that reptiles kept in an extremely low-stimulus environment (rack system) would be more prone to interact with environmental enrichment items than those kept in a biotope terrarium. During the study, 21 female geckos were kept in two types of captive enclosures: 9 in terrariums, and 12 in rack system boxes in groups of 3 animals per enclosure. During the enrichment sessions, geckos were observed for 45 min while enrichment items (dry and wet hides, a new feeding method, a new object) were present in the enclosure. All geckos showed interest in enrichment items that enabled hiding and climbing. Animals kept in the rack system showed significantly lower latency in approaching enrichment items and a higher frequency of enrichment interactions than lizards in biotope terrariums. However, no significant differences were found in the total time spent interacting with enrichment items between geckos in the two settings.
Illegal and Exploitative Sand-Digging Activities Could Be Managed to Create Suitable Nesting Habitats for Blue-Tailed Bee-Eaters (Merops philippinus)
Authors: Yang Canchao , Lu Gang , Cai Ting , Yao Xiaogang , Cai Yan
Published: March 2023

The development of human society often interferes with wild animals and their natural habitats. Interference during resource exploitation is mostly negative; however, in some cases, it can be positive and even have significance for some species. In this study, we investigated the number of blue-tailed bee-eaters (Merops philippinus), a species under ‘state protection category II’ in China, between controlled and manipulated nesting habitats from 2017 to 2022. Our results indicated that commercial sand-digging activities, either illegal or approved, initially created suitable nesting habitats to attract blue-tailed bee-eaters but subsequently led to damage of nests or nesting habitats. However, sand digging can be modified by avoiding the breeding season to provide safe and suitable nesting habitats for bee-eaters. The number of breeding birds more than tripled when digging during the breeding season was avoided. We also found that conventional conservation strategies, which strictly prohibited sand-digging activities, did not contribute to the nesting habitats of bee-eaters. This study enriches the theories of conservation biology and emphasizes the importance of dialectical thinking regarding exploitative and seemingly destructive activities.
Evaluation of Efflux-Mediated Resistance and Biofilm formation in Virulent Pseudomonas aeruginosa Associated with Healthcare Infections
Authors: Akinduti Paul A. , George Onome W. , Ohore Hannah U. , Ariyo Olusegun E. , Popoola Samuel T. , Adeleye Adenike I. , Akinwande Kazeem S. , Popoola Jacob O. , Rotimi Solomon O. , Olufemi Fredrick O. , Omonhinmin Conrad A. , Olasehinde Grace I.
Published: March 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a significant pathogen identified with healthcare-associated infections. The present study evaluates the role of biofilm and efflux pump activities in influencing high-level resistance in virulent P. aeruginosa strains in clinical infection. Phenotypic resistance in biotyped Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 147) from diagnosed disease conditions was classified based on multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) indices and analysed with logistic regression for risk factors. Efflux pump activity, biofilm formation, and virulence factors were analysed for optimal association in Pseudomonas infection using receiver operation characteristics (ROC). Age-specificity (OR [CI] = 0.986 [0.946–1.027]), gender (OR [CI] = 1.44 [0.211–9.827]) and infection sources (OR [CI] = 0.860 [0.438–1.688]) were risk variables for multidrug resistance (MDR)-P. aeruginosa infection (p < 0.05). Biofilm formers caused 48.2% and 18.5% otorrhea and wound infections (95% CI = 0.820–1.032; p = 0.001) respectively and more than 30% multidrug resistance (MDR) strains demonstrated high-level efflux pump activity (95% CI = 0.762–1.016; p = 0.001), protease (95% CI = 0.112–0.480; p = 0.003), lipase (95% CI = 0.143–0.523; p = 0.001), and hemolysin (95% CI = 1.109–1.780; p = 0.001). Resistance relatedness of more than 80% and 60% to cell wall biosynthesis inhibitors (ceftazidime, ceffproxil, augumentin, ampicillin) and, DNA translational and transcriptional inhibitors (gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, nitrofurantoin) were observed (p < 0.05). Strong efflux correlation (r = 0.85, p = 0.034) with MDR strains, with high predictive performances in efflux pump activity (ROC-AUC 0.78), biofilm formation (ROC-AUC 0.520), and virulence hierarchical-clustering. Combine activities of the expressed efflux pump and biofilm formation in MDR-P. aeruginosa pose risk to clinical management and infection control.
The NADPH Oxidase Inhibitors Apocynin and Diphenyleneiodonium Protect Rats from LPS-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation
Authors: Kouki Ahmed , Ferjani Wafa , Ghanem-Boughanmi Néziha , Ben-Attia Mossadok , Dang Pham My-Chan , Souli Abdelaziz , El-Benna Jamel
Published: March 2023

Inflammation is the body’s response to insults, for instance, lung inflammation is generally caused by pathogens or by exposure to pollutants, irritants and toxins. This process involves many inflammatory cells such as epithelial cells, monocytes, macrophages and neutrophils. These cells produce and release inflammatory mediators such as pro-inflammatory cytokines, lipids and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Lung epithelial cells and phagocytes (monocytes, macrophages and neutrophils) produce ROS mainly by the NADPH oxidase NOX1 and NOX2, respectively. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two NADPH oxidase inhibitors, apocynin and diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung inflammation in rats. Our results showed that apocynin and DPI attenuated the LPS-induced morphological and histological alterations of the lung, reduced edema and decreased lung permeability. The evaluation of oxidative stress markers in lung homogenates showed that apocynin and DPI inhibited LPS-induced NADPH oxidase activity, and restored superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity in the lung resulting in the reduction in LPS-induced protein and lipid oxidation. Additionally, apocynin and DPI decreased LPS-induced MPO activity in bronchoalveolar liquid and lung homogenates, TNF-α and IL-1β in rat plasma. NADPH oxidase inhibition could be a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory lung diseases.
Dietary Guanidine Acetic Acid Improves Ruminal Antioxidant Capacity and Alters Rumen Fermentation and Microflora in Rapid-Growing Lambs
Authors: Li Wenjuan , Cui Zhaoyang , Jiang Yaowen , Aisikaer Ailiyasi , Wu Qichao , Zhang Fang , Wang Weikang , Bo Yukun , Yang Hongjian
Published: March 2023

Guanidine acetic acid (GAA) has been reported to improve growth performance, nutrient utilization, and meat quality in livestock. This study aimed to investigate whether coated GAA (CGAA) in comparison with uncoated GAA (UGAA) could have different effects on rumen fermentation, antioxidant capacity, and microflora composition in the rumen. Seventy-two lambs were randomly arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial experiment design with two diets of different forage type (OH: oaten hay; OHWS: oaten hay plus wheat silage) and three GAA treatments within each diet (control, diet without GAA addition; UGAA, uncoated GAA; CGAA, coated GAA). The whole feeding trial lasted for 120 days. The lambs in the OH group presented lower total volatile fatty acid (VFA), alpha diversity, Firmicutes, NK4A214_group, and Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group than those on the OHWS diet in the last 60 days of the feeding stage (p < 0.05). Regardless of what GAA form was added, dietary GAA supplementation increased the total VFA, microbial crude protein (MCP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and antioxidant capacity in rumen during lamb feedlotting (p < 0.05). However, molar propionate proportion, acetate:propionate ratio (A:P), and relative Succiniclasticum abundance decreased with GAA addition in the first 60 days of the growing stage, while the molar butyrate proportion and NK4A214_group (p < 0.05) in response to GAA addition increased in the last 60 days of feeding. These findings indicated that dietary GAA enhanced antioxidant capacity and fermentation characteristics in the rumen, but the addition of uncoated GAA in diets might cause some dysbacteriosis of the rumen microbiota.
Hangover-Relieving Effect of Ginseng Berry Kombucha Fermented by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Gluconobacter oxydans in Ethanol-Treated Cells and Mice Model
Authors: Choi Eun Jung , Kim Hyeongyeong , Hong Ki-Bae , Suh Hyung Joo , Ahn Yejin
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the hangover relieving effect of ginseng berry kombucha (GBK) fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Gluconobacter oxydans in in vitro and in vivo models. The antioxidant activity and oxidative stress inhibitory effect of GBK were evaluated in ethanol-treated human liver HepG2 cells. In addition, biochemical and behavioral analyses of ethanol treated male ICR mice were performed to confirm the anti-hangover effect of GBK. The radical scavenging activity of GBK was increased by fermentation, and the total ginsenoside content of GBK was 70.24 μg/mL. In HepG2 cells, in which oxidative stress was induced using ethanol, GBK significantly increased the expression of antioxidant enzymes by upregulating the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway. Moreover, GBK (15 and 30 mg/kg) significantly reduced blood ethanol and acetaldehyde concentrations in ethanol-treated mice. GBK significantly increased the levels of alcohol-metabolizing enzymes, including alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. The balance beam test and elevated plus maze test revealed that high-dose GBK significantly ameliorated ethanol-induced behavioral changes. Collectively, GBK exerted a protective effect against ethanol-induced liver damage by regulating the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway.
Vibroacoustic Transfer Characteristics of Underwater Cylindrical Shells Containing Complex Internal Elastic Coupled Systems
Authors: Liu Shuqing , Huo Rui , Wang Likang
Published: March 2023

Cylindrical shells containing complex elastic coupling systems are the main structural form of underwater vehicles. Therefore, in this paper, the vibroacoustic radiation problem of underwater cylindrical shells containing complex internal elastic coupling systems is studied. Firstly, the dynamics model of the complex elastic coupled system is established through the method of integrated conductivity. The sound pressure distribution law and the general magnitude relationship between the performance index of hydroacoustic radiation and vibration isolation are investigated through numerical simulation. A strategy of global sensitivity analysis and related parameter optimization is carried out, by applying the Sobol’ method to the dynamics model. It could be concluded that the main flap of sound pressure at low and medium frequencies appears in the direction of the excitation force or the perpendicular to the excitation force, the magnitudes correspondence between the vibration level drop—power flow—hydroacoustic radiation at low frequencies can be expressed as a relatively simple function, and the vibroacoustic transmission of the system at lower order resonance frequencies is dominated by the parameter configuration of the vibration isolation device, while at higher frequencies is more influenced by the modalities of the base structure. The transfer power flow and the level drop are used as objective functions to optimise the acoustic radiation index of the coupled system, with the best results obtained when the transfer power flow and the level drop are used together as objective functions.
Effects of Different Numerical Methods on the Fracture Prediction Accuracy for Cortical Bone Structure under Bending Load
Authors: Fan Ruoxun , Liu Jie , Jia Zhengbin
Published: March 2023

Three numerical methods, including element instantaneous failure, continuum damage mechanics, and extended finite element methods, are mainly used to simulate the fracture in cortical bone structure. Although many simulations focus on the cortical bone fracture, few have investigated the differences in prediction accuracy among the three numerical methods. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prediction accuracy and applicability of the three numerical methods in simulating cortical bone fracture under bending load. The rat femur samples were first used to perform the three-point bending experiment. Then, the three numerical methods were respectively used to conduct fracture simulation on the femoral finite element models. Each result was compared with the experimental data to determine the prediction accuracy. The results showed that fracture simulation based on the continuum damage mechanics method was in better agreement with the experimental results, and observable differences in the failure processes could be seen in the same model under the three simulations due to various element failure strategies. The numerical method that was suitable for simulating cortical bone fracture under bending load was determined; meanwhile, the variations in the failure simulations were observed, and the cause of the variations in the predicted results using different numerical methods was also discussed, which may have potential to improve the prediction accuracy of cortical bone fracture.
On Mechanical Behavior of Metal Anchors in Historical Brick Masonry: Testing and Analytical Validation
Authors: Ramirez Rafael , Muñoz Rosana , Lourenço Paulo B.
Published: March 2023

The repair and strengthening of historical masonry buildings is a fundamental aspect in the conservation of the built cultural heritage. Temporary shoring or strengthening are often used and, usually, involve the introduction of new metallic elements. The connection between the original substrate and the new elements must be analyzed carefully to prevent further damage to the building. This paper presents a study on the mechanical behavior of metal anchors applied to brick masonry walls. An experimental campaign is developed, and a series of pull-out tests are carried out on masonry walls built in a laboratory with natural hydraulic lime mortar and low mechanical strength bricks. Two groups of tests are conducted, namely, with the actuator in the direction of the anchor axis and with the actuator inclined with respect to the fastener axis. Moreover, two types of anchoring systems are used, namely, adhesive (chemical and cementitious grout) and mechanical anchors. The experimental results are compared to predictive analytical formulas available in the literature for estimation of the ultimate load capacity, according to the type of failure. From the comparison between experimental and analytical values, it is proven that the analytical formulation originally developed for concrete substrates cannot be directly extrapolated to brick masonry cases, and specific predictive formulas should be developed. The presented research can be used to select the most efficient anchoring system for strengthening and retrofitting of historical brick masonry structures.
Evaluation of Spring Stiffness of Resilience Pads for Booted Sleeper Track System Using a Pressure Sensor
Authors: Choi Jung-Youl , Chung Jee-Seung , Ahn Dae-Hui , Han Jae-Min
Published: March 2023

To date, the spring stiffness of resilience pads was mostly evaluated based on conventional (site measurement and laboratory tests) methods. Most studies in the past analyzed the effects of the deterioration of resilience pads on track damage. To examine the deterioration of resilience pads, evaluations were conducted based on laboratory tests using site measurements and samples were collected from the site, or based on loading tests using special equipment. such as TSS. However, no methodology was proposed to prove the theoretical equations of Zimmermann which compute the reaction force at the rail support point. Hence, this study aimed to prove that the reaction force increased if spring stiffness at the rail support point increased; this was achieved by using a pressure sensor according to the theoretical equations of Zimmermann. Furthermore, we aimed to propose a method to evaluate the spring stiffness of resilience pads to predict the extent of deterioration of the pads based on the increase in the pressure measured by a pressure sensor.
Sleep Disorder Prevalence among Brazilian Children and Adolescents with Down Syndrome: An Observational Study
Authors: Torres-Nunes Luiza , da Costa-Borges Patrícia Prado , Paineiras-Domingos Laisa Liane , Bachur José Alexandre , de Sá-Caputo Danúbia da Cunha , Bernardo-Filho Mario
Published: March 2023

Background: Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal disorder and is related to congenital heart disease, sleep disorders and obesity. Sleep problems are common in DS children, including obstructive sleep apnea. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of sleep disorders in a group of 41 DS children and adolescents, by two validated questionnaires. Methods: This is a qualitative observational study. The guardians of DS individuals (1–17 years old) answered two questionnaires (sleep questionnaire by Reimão and Lefévre–QRL and sleep disorders scale for children–SDSC) using the Google forms tool. Results: Most DS children wake up at least once during the night (68.28%), sleep during the day (56%) and fall asleep within 15 to 30 min (36.58%), urinate in the sleep at night (53.65%), move around a lot while sleeping at night (78.04) and snore at night (53.66%). In SDSC, 36.59% (n = 15) have some sleep disorder and 29.3% (n = 12) have sleep-disordered breathing. Conclusions: The DS children and adolescents present sleep-compromising factors. Moreover, obstructive sleep apnea is the most prevalent sleep-disordered breathing. Considering the findings of the current study, Google forms is an important tool to evaluate the sleep disorders of DS children and adolescents.
Torulaspora delbrueckii Strain Behaviour within Different Refermentation Strategies for Sparkling Cider Production
Authors: Tocci Noemi , Egger Magdalena , Hoellrigl Philipp , Sanoll Christof , Beisert Beata , Brezina Silvia , Fritsch Stefanie , Schnell Sylvia , Rauhut Doris , Conterno Lorenza
Published: March 2023

Torulaspora delbrueckii is known for improving the aroma quality in wine and beer, but information for cider manufacturing is scarce. We explored the behaviour of two commercial strains of T. delbrueckii in apple juice fermentation to produce cider and sparkling cider. The influence of the strain, method, and strain–method interaction on the physicochemical parameters of cider was analysed by enzymatic and chromatographic assays. The data were subjected to an analysis of variance and a principal component analysis. Both strains also showed regular fermentation kinetics under pressure. Ethanol, lactic acid, acetic acid, and glycerol were produced with significant differences between strains and production methods. Then, 26 volatile compounds were identified, with higher alcohols being the quantitatively most abundant group. Strain A was associated with a higher production of methyl butanol, 2-phenyl ethanol, and butyric, propionic, and succinic acid esters, while strain B was associated with higher amounts of hexanoic acid, and acetate and valerate esters. In addition, 13 compounds showed significant differences between methods, and 14 were influenced by the method–strain interaction. Our findings encourage the further investigation of the application of T. delbrueckii as a solo player to produce ciders with a unique flavour.
Mechanical Performance of Polystyrene-Based Nanocomposites Filled with Carbon Allotropes
Authors: Moskalyuk Olga A. , Belashov Andrey V. , Zhikhoreva Anna A. , Beltukov Yaroslav M. , Semenova Irina V.
Published: March 2023

Numerous studies have been performed on different aspects of the mechanical behavior of polymer nanocomposites; however, the results obtained still lack a comprehensive comparative analysis of the mechanical properties of composites containing nanofillers of different shapes and concentrations and subjected to different static and dynamic loads. Carbon nanofillers were shown to provide the most significant improvement in the elastic properties of polymer composites. In this paper, we present a comparative analysis of the mechanical properties of polystyrene-based nanocomposites filled with carbon allotropes of different shapes: spherical fullerene particles, filamentary multi-walled nanotubes, and graphene platelets, fabricated by the same technology. The influence of shape and concentration of dispersed carbon fillers on mechanical and viscoelastic properties of composites in different stress–strain states was evaluated based on the results of tensile and three-point bending tests, and ultrasonic and dynamic mechanical analysis. Comparison of the static and dynamic elastic properties of nanocomposites allowed us to analyze their variations with frequency. At low concentrations of 0.1 wt% and 0.5 wt% all nanofillers did not provide significant improvement of elastic characteristics of composites. More efficient reinforcement was observed at the concentration of 5 wt%. Among the filler types, some increase in composite rigidity was observed with the addition of filamentary particles. The introduction of the layered filler provided the most pronounced rise in the composite rigidity. The weak frequency dependence of the mechanical loss tangent, which is characteristic of amorphous thermoplastics, was demonstrated for all the samples.
Shelf Life Extension of Chicken Cuts Packed under Modified Atmospheres and Edible Antimicrobial Coatings
Authors: Ntzimani Athina , Kalamaras Antonios , Tsironi Theofania , Taoukis Petros
Published: March 2023

Convenient cuts of poultry products are of significant interest, but they are perishable products with a short shelf life. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) or the application of active packaging based on edible and biodegradable coatings could extend the shelf life of perishable foods. The aim of the present work was the kinetic modelling of the effect of MAP and active coatings with antimicrobial agents on the microbial growth and shelf life of chicken cuts. Broiler chicken thighs processed with pectin-based (2% w/w aqueous solution) edible coatings enriched with 1% extract of citrus bioflavonoids (flavomix) or 0.5% glucono-δ-lactone were stored under aerobic conditions at 0, 5 and 10 °C. Untreated thighs were also stored aerobically or in MAP (42.7% O2, 18.5% CO2). Quality evaluation was based on the growth of spoilage bacteria (TVC, Pseudomonas spp., Brochothrix thermosphacta), pH, colour, and sensory scoring. The tested quality indices were kinetically modelled and the Arrhenius model was used for the definition of the temperature dependence of the quality loss rates. Pseudomonas spp. dominated spoilage at all packaging and temperature conditions. Microbial growth correlated well with sensory degradation (Ea = 80–100 kJ/mol). Glucono-δ-lactone-enriched edible coatings resulted in 2 days of shelf life extension for chicken thighs at 5 °C. MAP and active, edible coatings with citrus extract showed a similar effect on the quality deterioration rate, and thus the shelf life of chicken cuts. Based on microbial growth, the shelf life was 6–7, 11, and 13 days at 5 °C for the control, EC-glu, MAP, and EC-flav samples, respectively (limit of acceptability = 107 cfu/g for TVC). The results of the study show the potential for using MAP or edible, active coatings to extend the shelf life and improve the commercial value of broiler chicken cuts.
Enhancing Image Encryption with the Kronecker xor Product, the Hill Cipher, and the Sigmoid Logistic Map
Authors: Mfungo Dani Elias , Fu Xianping , Wang Xingyuan , Xian Yongjin
Published: March 2023

In today’s digital age, it is crucial to secure the flow of information to protect data and information from being hacked during transmission or storage. To address this need, we present a new image encryption technique that combines the Kronecker xor product, Hill cipher, and sigmoid logistic Map. Our proposed algorithm begins by shifting the values in each row of the state matrix to the left by a predetermined number of positions, then encrypting the resulting image using the Hill Cipher. The top value of each odd or even column is used to perform an xor operation with all values in the corresponding even or odd column, excluding the top value. The resulting image is then diffused using a sigmoid logistic map and subjected to the Kronecker xor product operation among the pixels to create a secure image. The image is then diffused again with other keys from the sigmoid logistic map for the final product. We compared our proposed method to recent work and found it to be safe and efficient in terms of performance after conducting statistical analysis, differential attack analysis, brute force attack analysis, and information entropy analysis. The results demonstrate that our proposed method is robust, lightweight, and fast in performance, meets the requirements for encryption and decryption, and is resistant to various attacks.
Complications Arising Due to Orthodontic Treatment—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Kanwal Bushra , Abutayyem Huda , Alswairki Haytham Jamil , Alfawzan Ahmed Ali , Shqaidef Abedalrahman , Almakrami Laila Hamad , Alaqidi Sultan Fadhel Shuaibi , Alaskar Almothana Ali , Almutairi Ibrahim Ayiz , Alotaibi Abdullah Sultan , Shrivastava Deepti , Srivastava Kumar Chandan
Published: March 2023

A variety of metals and alloys are employed in the field of orthodontics, of which the construction of wires happens to be predominant. Through this systematic review, our primary goal was to review and assess studies focusing on complications that emerged during or directly after the completion of an orthodontic treatment plan. We then used a meta-analysis to determine how these complications affected the patients who were receiving orthodontic treatment. A total of 634 documents were discovered after a thorough search of online journals, and 416 of the papers were initially selected. In the end, 14 papers, including in vitro experiments, literature reviews, comparative analyses, observational studies, and retrospective studies, were chosen that met the requisite inclusion and exclusion criteria. There were difficulties related to orthodontic treatment in all of the studies listed in our systematic review, but their severity varied greatly. The effects of gingival mucosa and root resorption were two of the most often mentioned periodontal problems in this review. More long-term studies are required to confirm the involvement of an orthodontic component in these issues, but the majority of the complications were assessed to initially arise after the treatment plan had begun and to resolve with time.
Structured Light Patterns Work Like a Hologram
Authors: Shoydin Sergey Alexandrovich , Pazoev Artem Levonovich
Published: March 2023

The subject of this investigation is light diffraction from a structure formed at the lateral projection of structured light on the surface of a 3D object. It is demonstrated that the patterns of vertically structured light fringes change their structure during the lateral illumination of a 3D object, and take on the properties of holograms. The diffraction of light from this structure forms several diffraction orders, and one of them can restore the image of the 3D object. Results of the numerical experiment demonstrating the possibility to restore 3D holographic images by these patterns at a wavelength corresponding to Bragg conditions are presented. The obtained result allows an order of magnitude higher compression of the holographic information about a 3D object to be transmitted along the communication channel, in a volume that is sufficient for visual perception, and for the observation of both the horizontal and vertical continuous parallax. Results of the experiments on the transmission of this compressed information are presented to demonstrate that the TV frame rate frequency of the 3D holographic video sequence is quite achievable.
ADSSD: Improved Single-Shot Detector with Attention Mechanism and Dilated Convolution
Authors: Ni Jian , Wang Rui , Tang Jing
Published: March 2023

The detection of small objects is easily affected by background information, and a lack of context information makes detection difficult. Therefore, small object detection has become an extremely challenging task. Based on the above problems, we proposed a Single-Shot MultiBox Detector with an attention mechanism and dilated convolution (ADSSD). In the attention module, we strengthened the connection between information in space and channels while using cross-layer connections to accelerate training. In the multi-branch dilated convolution module, we combined three expansion convolutions with different dilated ratios to obtain multi-scale context information and used hierarchical feature fusion to reduce the gridding effect. The results show that on PASCAL VOC2007 and VOC2012 datasets, our 300 × 300 input ADSSD model reaches 78.4% mAP and 76.1% mAP. The results outperform those of SSD and other advanced detectors; the effect of some small object detection is significantly improved. Moreover, the performance of the ADSSD in object detection affected by factors such as dense occlusion is better than that of the traditional SSD.
Children’s Safety on YouTube: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alqahtani Saeed Ibrahim , Yafooz Wael M. S. , Alsaeedi Abdullah , Syed Liyakathunisa , Alluhaibi Reyadh
Published: March 2023

Background: With digital transformation and growing social media usage, kids spend considerable time on the web, especially watching videos on YouTube. YouTube is a source of education and entertainment media that has a significant impact on the skill improvement, knowledge, and attitudes of children. Simultaneously, harmful and inappropriate video content has a negative impact. Recently, researchers have given much attention to these issues, which are considered important for individuals and society. The proposed methods and approaches are to limit or prevent such threats that may negatively influence kids. These can be categorized into five main directions. They are video rating, parental control applications, analysis meta-data of videos, video or audio content, and analysis of user accounts. Objective: The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic review of the existing methods, techniques, tools, and approaches that are used to protect kids and prevent them from accessing inappropriate content on YouTube videos. Methods: This study conducts a systematic review of research papers that were published between January 2016 and December 2022 in international journals and international conferences, especially in IEEE Xplore Digital Library, ACM Digital Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Springer database, and ScienceDirect database. Results: The total number of collected articles was 435. The selection and filtration process reduced this to 72 research articles that were appropriate and related to the objective. In addition, the outcome answers three main identified research questions. Significance: This can be beneficial to data mining, cybersecurity researchers, and peoples’ concerns about children’s cybersecurity and safety.
Improving Intra-Urban Prediction of Atmospheric Fine Particles Using a Hybrid Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Zhang Zhengyu , Ren Jiuchun , Chang Yunhua
Published: March 2023

Growing evidence links intra-urban gradients in atmospheric fine particles (PM2.5), a complex and variable cocktail of toxic chemicals, to adverse health outcomes. Here, we propose an improved hierarchical deep learning model framework to estimate the hourly variation of PM2.5 mass concentration at the street level. By using a full-year monitoring data (including meteorological parameters, hourly concentrations of PM2.5, and gaseous precursors) from multiple stations in Shanghai, the largest city in China, as a training dataset, we first apply a convolutional neural network to obtain cross-domain and time-series features so that the inherent features of air quality and meteorological data associated with PM2.5 can be effectively extracted. Next, a Gaussian weight calculation layer is used to determine the potential interaction effects between different regions and neighboring stations. Finally, a long and short-term memory model layer is used to efficiently extract the temporal evolution characteristics of PM2.5 concentrations from the previous output layer. Further comparative analysis reveals that our proposed model framework significantly outperforms previous benchmark methods in terms of the stability and accuracy of PM2.5 prediction, which has important implications for the intra-urban health assessment of PM2.5-related pollution exposures.
Seismo Ionospheric Anomalies around and over the Epicenters of Pakistan Earthquakes
Authors: Shah Munawar , Shahzad Rasim , Ehsan Muhsan , Ghaffar Bushra , Ullah Irfan , Jamjareegulgarn Punyawi , Hassan Ahmed M.
Published: March 2023

Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based ionospheric anomalies are nowadays used to identify a possible earthquake (EQ) precursor and hence a new research topic in seismic studies. The current study also aims to provide an investigation of ionospheric anomalies associated to EQs. In order to study possible pre-and post-seismic perturbations during the preparation phase of large-magnitude EQs, statistical and machine learning algorithms are applied to Total Electron Content (TEC) from the Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Ionosphere Maps (GIMs). We observed TEC perturbation from the Sukkur (27.8° N, 68.9° E) GNSS station near the epicenter of Mw 5.4 Mirpur EQ within 5–10 days before the main shock day by implementing machine learning and statistical analysis. However, no TEC anomaly occurred in GIM-TEC over the Mirpur EQ epicenter. Furthermore, machine learning and statistical techniques are also implemented on GIM TEC data before and after the Mw 7.7 Awaran, where TEC anomalies can be clearly seen within 5–10 days before the seismic day and the subsequent rise in TEC during the 2 days after the main shock. These variations are also evident in GIM maps over the Awaran EQ epicenter. The findings point towards a large emission of EQ energy before and after the main shock during quiet storm days, which aid in the development of lithosphere ionosphere coupling. However, the entire analysis can be expanded to more satellite and ground-based measurements in Pakistan and other countries to reveal the pattern of air ionization from the epicenter through the atmosphere to the ionosphere.
Screening of Absorbents for Viscose Fiber CS2 Waste Air and Absorption–Desorption Process
Authors: Xiao Ruixue , Chao Kefan , Liu Ju , Chen Muhua , Zhu Xinbao , Fu Bo
Published: March 2023

Screening of absorbents is essential for improving the removal rate of carbon disulfide (CS2) waste air by absorption. In this work, the UNIFAC model in Aspen Plus was utilized to calculate the excess Gibbs function and absorption potential of the binary system of CS2 with various alcohols, ethers, esters, amines, and aromatic hydrocarbons. The results were used to quantitatively compare the efficiency of each solvent for CS2 absorption. The theoretical predictions were then verified by absorption experiments in a packed tower. The results showed that the performance of various solvents to CS2 roughly followed the order of esters < alcohols < amines < heavy aromatics < glycol ethers. Meanwhile, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) is the optimal absorbent for CS2 waste air treatment. Additionally, the process parameters of absorption and desorption of NMP were optimized. The results illustrated that the average mass removal efficiency of CS2 by NMP is 95.2% under following conditions: liquid–gas ratio of 3.75 L·m−3, a temperature of 20 °C, and inlet concentration lower than 10,000 mg·m−3. Under the conditions of 115 °C, 10 kPa, and a desorption time of 45 min, the average desorption rate of CS2 is 99.6%, and the average water content after desorption is 0.39%. Furthermore, the recycled lean liquid can maintain an excellent CS2 purification effect during the recycling process.
Some Subordination Results Defined by Using the Symmetric q-Differential Operator for Multivalent Functions
Authors: Noor Saima , Al-Sa’di Sa’ud , Hussain Saqib
Published: March 2023

In this article, we use the concept of symmetric q-calculus and convolution in order to define a symmetric q-differential operator for multivalent functions. This operator is an extension of the classical Ruscheweyh differential operator. By using the technique of differential subordination, we derive several interesting applications of the newly defined operator for multivalent functions.
A Single Active-Site Mutagenesis Confers Enhanced Activity and/or Changed Product Distribution to a Pentalenene Synthase from Streptomyces sp. PSKA01
Authors: Liu Hongshuang , Fang Senbiao , Zhao Lin , Men Xiao , Zhang Haibo
Published: March 2023

Pentalenene is a ternary cyclic sesquiterpene formed via the ionization and cyclization of farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP), which is catalyzed by pentalenene synthase (PentS). To better understand the cyclization reactions, it is necessary to identify more key sites and elucidate their roles in terms of catalytic activity and product specificity control. Previous studies primarily relied on the crystal structure of PentS to analyze and verify critical active sites in the active cavity, while this study started with the function of PentS and screened a novel key site through random mutagenesis. In this study, we constructed a pentalenene synthetic pathway in E. coli BL21(DE3) and generated PentS variants with random mutations to construct a mutant library. A mutant, PentS-13, with a varied product diversity, was obtained through shake-flask fermentation and product identification. After sequencing and the functional verification of the mutation sites, it was found that T182A, located in the G2 helix, was responsible for the phenotype of PentS-13. The site-saturation mutagenesis of T182 demonstrated that mutations at this site not only affected the solubility and activity of the enzyme but also affected the specificity of the product. The other products were generated through different routes and via different carbocation intermediates, indicating that the 182 active site is crucial for PentS to stabilize and guide the regioselectivity of carbocations. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations suggested that these mutations may induce changes in the shape and volume of the active cavity and disturb hydrophobic/polar interactions that were sufficient to reposition reactive intermediates for alternative reaction pathways. This article provides rational explanations for these findings, which may generally allow for the protein engineering of other terpene synthases to improve their catalytic efficiency or modify their specificities.
Editorial to the Special Issue “Eco-Physiological and Molecular Basis of Stress Tolerance in Plants”
Authors: Wang Lei , Tanveer Mohsin
Published: March 2023

Farmers are currently facing the challenge of producing sufficient crop yield [...]
Paleontology in the 21st Century
Authors: Schweitzer Mary H.
Published: March 2023

For much of its 300+ year history, “modern” paleontology has been a descriptive science, firmly housed within geological sciences [...]