bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What means civic education in a digitalized world?
Authors: Schmitt Josephine B. , Baake Jasmin , Kero Sandra
Published: March 2024

The hope of reaching diverse and large target groups has motivated civic education practitioners to offer their content on social media. The question has therefore long ceased to be whether civic education should take place on the internet, but rather how civic education goals can be implemented digitally to foster civic literacy. At first glance, the possibility of reaching a broad audience in a short time seems tempting. At a second glance, social media reveals several challenges that can impair educational processes. The present paper discusses the following questions: What are the opportunities and pitfalls of civic education in social media? How can we ensure successful civic education in a digitalized world? In our article, we want to provide an interdisciplinary perspective on the topic by drawing among others from the literature in the fields of media psychology, communication studies, and education science. By integrating insights from various disciplines, our paper seeks to enrich the academic dialogue and to promote a nuanced understanding of the evolving dynamics of civic education in the digital realm. With its practical focus, our paper further aims to underscore the applicability of scientific research.
Spirituality and anxiety in pastoral care workers and physicians in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Culmann Anna C. , Baranowski Andreas M. , Matthias Julia-K. , Tüttenberg Simone C. , Belschner Wilfried , Erim Yesim , Morawa Eva , Beschoner Petra , Jerg-Bretzke Lucia , Albus Christian , Steudte-Schmiedgen Susann , Reuter Martin , Geiser Franziska
Published: March 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic had serious impact on the well-being of health care workers and highlighted the need for resources to help hospital staff to cope with psychologically negative consequences. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potentially protective effect of spirituality, as measured by the construct of transpersonal trust, against anxiety in physicians and in hospital pastoral care workers. In addition, transpersonal trust was compared to the effects of other potential resources, namely sense of coherence, optimism, and resilience. We also explored the relationship between transpersonal trust and anxiety and how it was moderated by sense of coherence and expected a significant effect.

Method

The sample included N = 405 participants (n = 151 pastoral care workers and n = 254 physicians) who completed an online survey during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic between 20th April and 05th July, 2020, that comprised established questionnaires assessing anxiety, transpersonal trust, sense of coherence, and resilience.

Results

There was no statistically significant negative relationship between transpersonal trust and anxiety in either profession or broken down by occupational group. Multiple regression analysis revealed that sense of coherence inversely predicted generalized anxiety, while transpersonal trust, resilience, and optimism did not. As hypothesized, the association between transpersonal trust and anxiety was moderated by sense of coherence. However, we could not confirm our hypothesis of a protective effect of transpersonal trust against anxiety.

Conclusion

Our results point to the significant role of sense of coherence as a protective factor against anxiety and highlight the complexity of the relationship among spirituality, transpersonal trust, and anxiety.
Changes in electrodermal activity following sympathicotomy in hyperhidrosis patients
Authors: Ho Ai Van Thuy , Øvensen Eirik , Lilja Didrik , Toska Karin , Grenager Odd , Kristiansen Knut , Wesche Jarlis
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the potential of electrodermal activity (EDA) as a diagnostic tool for preoperative evaluation in hyperhidrosis patients. EDA levels and patterns in different skin areas were investigated before and after endoscopic thoracic sympathicotomy (ETS) and was compared to healthy subjects.

Methods

Thirty-seven patients underwent two days of measurements before and after the operation. Twenty-five (67.5%) of the patients also had a third measurement after six months. Non-invasive EDA measurements, involving skin conductance, were sampled from five different skin areas while patients were at rest in supine and sitting positions or when subjected to stimuli such as deep inspirations, mental challenge, and exposure to a sudden loud sound.

Results

Prior to the operation, hyperhidrosis patients showed higher spontaneous palm EDA variations at rest and stronger responses to stimuli compared to healthy subjects. Patients with facial blushing/hyperhidrosis or combined facial/palmar hyperhidrosis showed minimal spontaneous activity or responses, particularly during mental challenge and sound stimulus. Notably, palm EDA response was abolished shortly following sympathicotomy, although a minor response was observed after six months. Minimal EDA responses were also observed in the back and abdomen postoperatively.

Conclusion

Hyperhidrosis patients showed stronger EDA response to stimuli compared to healthy subjects. Sympathicotomy resulted in the complete elimination of palm EDA responses, gradually returning to a limited extent after six months. These findings suggest that EDA recordings could be utilized in preoperative assessment of hyperhidrosis patients.
Low Observable Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle Wind Tunnel Model Design, Manufacturing, and Aerodynamic Characterization
Authors: Aleisa Hassan , Kontis Konstantinos , Nikbay Melike
Published: March 2024

Developing wind tunnel models is time consuming, labor intensive, and expensive. Rapid prototyping for wind tunnel tests is an effective, faster, and cheaper method to obtain aerodynamic performance results while considerably reducing acquisition time and cost for the models. Generally, the rapid prototyping models suffer from insufficient stiffness or strength to withstand the loads generated during a wind tunnel test. In the present study, a rapid prototype model reinforced with metallic inserts was produced to experimentally investigate the aerodynamic characteristics of an uncrewed aerial vehicle with various wingtip deflections. The fused deposition modeling process was used to make the outer mold, whereas the metallic parts were produced using laser cutting and the computer numerical control machining process. Then, the model was evaluated both experimentally and numerically. The test campaign presented in this work was conducted in the de Havilland low-speed wind tunnel facility at the University of Glasgow. For better characterization of flow patterns dominated by leading edge vortices, numerical simulations were run using OpenFOAM 8.0 and validated with experimental data. The experimental data obtained from the hybrid rapid-prototyped model agreed well with the numerical results. This demonstrates the efficacy of hybrid rapid-prototyped models in providing reliable results for initial baseline aerodynamic database development within a short period and at a reduced cost for wind tunnel tests.
Effect of Irrigation and Nitrogen Management on Potato Growth, Yield, and Water and Nitrogen Use Efficiencies
Authors: Shrestha Bhimsen , Stringam Blair L. , Darapuneni Murali K. , Lombard Kevin A. , Sanogo Soumaila , Higgins Charles , Djaman Koffi
Published: March 2024

Irrigation and nitrogen management are crucial for sustainable potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production. A field experiment was conducted during the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons at Farmington, New Mexico, to evaluate the performance of two chip potato varieties (Lamoka and Waneta) under three irrigation regimes (full irrigation (FI), 20% deficit irrigation (DI) and 40% DI) and seven nitrogen fertilizer rates (0, 60, 115, 170, 220, 280, and 340 kg N/ha). The treatment combinations of irrigation regimes, nitrogen rates, and varieties were arranged in a split–split plot design with three replications as main plot, sub-plot, and sub-sub plot, respectively. The two-year results showed that irrigation regimes had the most significant effect on plant growth, physiology, and tuber yield of the potato varieties. For both Lamoka and Waneta, the plant height and canopy cover were lower under 40% DI than under 20% DI and FI treatments. The SPAD meter values were higher under 40% DI, followed by 20% DI and FI treatments, whereas the stomatal conductance was higher under FI, followed by 20% DI and 40% DI during both growing seasons. Regardless of nitrogen rates and variety, a 20% water-saving irrigation strategy reduced the total tuber yield by 4.5% and 22.1% in the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons, respectively, while the 40% water-saving irrigation strategy reduced total tuber yield by 36.8% and 58.2% in the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons, respectively, as compared to full irrigation. Shifting from full irrigation to 20% DI could save 711.2 to 1036.3 m3/ha of irrigation water. For Lamoka, the highest total tuber yield was obtained with 60 kg N/ha under 20% DI and 220 kg N/ha under FI in 2022 and 2023, respectively. For Waneta, the highest total tuber yield was obtained with 115 kg N/ha under 20% DI and 170 kg N/ha under FI in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Maximum water use efficiency (WUE) was obtained at 60 kg N/ha with 20% DI for both Lamoka and Waneta in 2022, while maximum WUE was obtained at 220 kg N/ha under FI for Lamoka and at 170 kg N/ha for Waneta in the 2023 season. The maximum nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) was achieved with 60 kg N/ha under 20% DI for both varieties during both growing seasons. Thus, for sustainable irrigation and nitrogen management, the application of a 20% deficit irrigation strategy with a lower nitrogen rate (60 to 170 kg N/ha) could be the best option to improve WUE and NUE with minimal tuber yield reduction. Our study suggested that 40% deficit irrigation would not be beneficial as compared to both full irrigation and 20% water-saving irrigation.
Comparative Performance of Aerial RGB vs. Ground Hyperspectral Indices for Evaluating Water and Nitrogen Status in Sweet Maize
Authors: Colovic Milica , Stellacci Anna Maria , Mzid Nada , Di Venosa Martina , Todorovic Mladen , Cantore Vito , Albrizio Rossella
Published: March 2024

This study analyzed the capability of aerial RGB (red-green-blue) and hyperspectral-derived vegetation indices to assess the response of sweet maize (Zea mays var. saccharata L.) to different water and nitrogen inputs. A field experiment was carried out during 2020 by using both remote RGB images and ground hyperspectral sensor data. Physiological parameters (i.e., leaf area index, relative water content, leaf chlorophyll content index, and gas exchange parameters) were measured. Correlation and multivariate data analysis (principal component analysis and stepwise linear regression) were performed to assess the strength of the relationships between eco-physiological measured variables and both RGB indices and hyperspectral data. The results revealed that the red-edge indices including CIred-edge, NDRE and DD were the best predictors of the maize physiological traits. In addition, stepwise linear regression highlighted the importance of both WI and WI:NDVI for prediction of relative water content and crop temperature. Among the RGB indices, the green-area index showed a significant contribution in the prediction of leaf area index, stomatal conductance, leaf transpiration and relative water content. Moreover, the coefficients of correlation between studied crop variables and GGA, NDLuv and NDLab were higher than with the hyperspectral indices measured at the ground level. The findings confirmed the capacity of selected RGB and hyperspectral indices to evaluate the water and nitrogen status of sweet maize and provided opportunity to expand experimentation on other crops, diverse pedo-climatic conditions and management practices. Hence, the aerially collected RGB vegetation indices might represent a cost-effective solution for crop status assessment.
Comparative Transcript Profiling of Resistant and Susceptible Tea Plants in Response to Gray Blight Disease
Authors: Tan Rongrong , Jiao Long , Huang Danjuan , Chen Xun , Wang Hongjuan , Mao Yingxin
Published: March 2024

Gray blight disease stands as one of the most destructive ailments affecting tea plants, causing significant damage and productivity losses. However, the dynamic roles of defense genes during the infection of gray blight disease remain largely unclear, particularly concerning their distinct responses in resistant and susceptible cultivars. In the pursuit of understanding the molecular interactions associated with gray blight disease in tea plants, a transcriptome analysis unveiled that 10,524, 17,863, and 15,178 genes exhibited differential expression in the resistant tea cultivar (Yingshuang), while 14,891, 14,733, and 12,184 genes showed differential expression in the susceptible tea cultivar (Longjing 43) at 8, 24, and 72 h post-inoculation (hpi), respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses highlighted that the most up-regulated genes were mainly involved in secondary metabolism, photosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, and ribosome pathways. Furthermore, plant hormone signal transduction and flavonoid biosynthesis were specifically expressed in resistant and susceptible tea cultivars, respectively. These findings provide a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying tea plant immunity against gray blight disease.
Effects of Multistrain Probiotic Supplementation on Sows’ Emotional and Cognitive States and Progeny Welfare
Authors: Pereira Melody Martins Cavalcante , Andretta Ines , Franceschi Carolina Haubert , Kipper Marcos , Mariani Alexandre , Stefanello Thais , Carvalho Camila , Vieira Júlio , Moura Rocha Luiene , Ribeiro Andrea Machado Leal
Published: March 2024

The intensification of production systems has resulted in detrimental effects on sow welfare, which can have an adverse influence on their offspring. Considering the relevance of the microbiota–gut–brain axis, probiotics can mitigate such impacts. To investigate the effects of the dietary inclusion of probiotics on the welfare of sows and piglets, 147 multiparous sows were randomly assigned to two groups: a control group or a group supplemented with a multistrain probiotic from the beginning of pregnancy to the end of lactation. The human–animal relationship (HAR), stereotypic behavior, position changes, salivary cortisol, and plasma serotonin levels were assessed in the sows. The piglets’ back test behavior and organ weight were analyzed. The probiotic-supplemented sows exhibited a better HAR index (p = 0.017), which indicated reduced aversion towards humans. The frequency of stereotypies was not influenced by the treatments. However, the supplemented sows spent more time standing (p = 0.054) and less time lying down (p = 0.008). The cortisol level of the supplemented sows was 50% lower (p = 0.047) and the serotonin levels were 11% higher (p = 0.034) than control animals. The multistrain piglets were more passive and less resistant (p = 0.076) in the back test. The organ weights were not influenced by treatments. In conclusion, the sows supplemented with probiotics showed less fear and more motivation indicators, while their piglets showed less aggression behaviors.
The Sympatric Coexistence Mechanism: A Case Study of Two Penahia Species in the Beibu Gulf, South China Sea
Authors: Luo Konglan , Yang Xiaodong , Zhou Yan , Yi Xiaoying , Zhao Chunxu , Wang Jinxi , He Xiongbo , Yan Yunrong
Published: March 2024

The study of trophic relationships among closely related species plays an important role in deepening our understanding of the resource utilization characteristics, differentiation patterns, and population dynamics of co-occurring species in the same habitat. This research uses two congeneric fish species, Pennahia pawak and Pennahia anea, as examples. Based on a stomach content analysis and a carbon–nitrogen stable isotope analysis, a comparative analysis of their feeding habits and trophic niches is conducted. Additionally, a spatial niche analysis is employed to explore the coexistence and competitive mechanisms between these two closely related fish species. The results show that specialized feeding habits mitigate intraspecific competition as the population densities increase. The carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analysis reveals variations in the feeding habits and trophic levels with body length, indicating adaptive shifts in prey selection. Despite similar food resources, niche differentiation arises due to differences in dominant prey, facilitating coexistence. Differences in spatial niche further contribute to niche separation and coexistence. In resource-limited environments, species such as Pennahia utilize trophic and spatial niche differentiation to collectively exploit resources and achieve coexistence, with implications for fishery management favoring Pennahia resource occupancy capabilities.
Epidemiology and Molecular Characterization of Zoonotic Gastrointestinal Protozoal Infection in Zoo Animals in China
Authors: An Diya , Jiang Tingting , Zhang Changsheng , Ma Lei , Jia Ting , Pei Yanqun , Zhu Zifu , Liu Qun , Liu Jing
Published: March 2024

Zoo animals, harboring zoonotic gastrointestinal protozoal diseases, pose potential hazards to the safety of visitors and animal keepers. This study involved the collection and examination of 400 fresh fecal samples from 68 animal species, obtained from five zoos. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence, genetic characteristics, and zoonotic potential of common gastrointestinal protists. PCR or nested PCR analysis was conducted on these samples to detect four specific parasites: Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Blastocystis spp. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp was 0.5% (2/400), G. duodenalis was 6.0% (24/400), Blastocystis spp. was 24.5% (98/400), and E. bieneusi was 13.5% (54/400). G. duodenalis, Blastocystis spp., and E. bieneusi were detected in all of the zoos, exhibiting various zoonotic genotypes or subtypes. G. duodenalis-positive samples exhibited three assemblages (D, E, and B). Blastocystis spp. subtypes (ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, ST8, ST10, ST13, and ST14) and one unknown subtype (ST) were identified. A total of 12 genotypes of E. bieneusi were identified, including SC02, BEB6, Type IV, pigEBITS 7, Peru8, PtEb IX, D, CD9, EbpC, SCBB1, CM4, and CM7. Moreover, significant differences in the positive rates among different zoos were observed (p < 0.01). The findings indicate that zoo animals in China are affected by a range of intestinal protozoa infections. Emphasizing molecular identification for specific parasite species or genotypes is crucial for a better understanding of the zoonotic risk. Preventing and controlling parasitic diseases in zoos is not only vital for zoo protection and management but also holds significant public health implications.
Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence Potential of Bacterial Species from Captive Birds of Prey—Consequences of Falconry for Public Health
Authors: Magalhães Rita , Tavares Luís , Oliveira Manuela
Published: March 2024

Falconry has been practiced for thousands of years and is nowadays frequently employed in activities such as pest control, hunting, falcon racing, and environmental education. Antimicrobial resistance levels have risen in the past years, constituting an emerging global problem with a direct impact on public health. Besides both topics being studied on their own, information on the role of captive birds of prey in the potential dissemination of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance determinants of bacterial origin is scarce. Multidrug-resistant bacteria, including some extended-spectrum β-lactamase producers, have already been found in several captive birds of prey. Most of the virulence factors found in captive raptors’ bacteria were related to adherence and invasion abilities, toxin production, and flagella. These birds may acquire these bacteria through contaminated raw food and the exchange of animals between keepers and zoological facilities. More studies are required to confirm the role of captive birds of prey in disseminating resistant bacteria and on the routes of interaction between synanthropic species and humans.
Evidence for Beneficial Physiological Responses of the Land Snail Cornu aspersum to Probiotics’ (Lactobacillus plantarum) Dietary Intervention
Authors: Efstratiou Efstratios , Feidantsis Konstantinos , Makri Vasiliki , Staikou Alexandra , Giantsis Ioannis A.
Published: March 2024

A large variety of microorganisms ingested with food constitute animals’ intestinal microflora, enhancing and maintaining the homeostasis of the host. Rations enriched with probiotics are a method recommended to prevent undesirable conditions. To date, research has been limited to farmed animals and reared fish, creating a knowledge gap concerning the effect of probiotics on the growth rate, physiological responses, and energy metabolism of invertebrates such as the land snail Cornu aspersum. Herein, juvenile snails (26.23 ± 0.5 mm shell diameter and 8.23 ± 1.02 g body weight) were fed L. plantarum probiotic-enriched rations in two different proportions (1.25 mg and 2.5 mg), and their growth rate was monitored for three months. Additionally, the RNA/DNA and Bax/Bcl-2 ratios, HSP gene expression and protein levels, and ND2 expression, were measured in the hepatopancreas, digestive tract, and mantle. Although the snails’ growth rate was not affected, the RNA/DNA ratio presented an increase in various tissues, indicating an intense physiological response. Also, probiotic administration demonstrated low levels of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. HSP levels were higher in the presence of probiotics, probably signaling an attempt by the animal to face potentially stressful situations. Finally, ND2 expression levels in the hepatopancreas indicate intense metabolic and antioxidant activity.
Whole-Genome Resequencing−Based Qualitative Trait Locus Mapping Correlated yellow with the Mutant Color in Honeybees, Apis cerana cerana
Authors: Shao Shanshan , Huang Qiang , Pei Yalin , Hu Junyan , Wang Zilong , Zhang Lizhen , He Xujiang , Wu Xiaobo , Yan Weiyu
Published: March 2024

The honeybee, Apis cerana cerana (Ac), is an important pollinator and has adapted to the local ecological environment with relevant coloration. The cuticle coloration of the brown (br) mutant is brown instead of black in wild−type individuals. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and characterize the gene responsible for the br mutation. Genome resequencing with allele segregation measurement using Euclidean distance followed by Lowess regression analysis revealed that the color locus linked to the mutation was located on chromosome 11. A 2−base deletion on exon 4 was identified in the g7628 (yellow) gene after genome assembly and sequence cloning. In addition, the cuticle color of the abdomen of worker bees changed from black to brown when a defect was induced in the yellow gene using short interfering RNA (siRNA); however, the survival rate did not decrease significantly. These results indicate that the yellow gene participated in the body pigmentation, and its defect was responsible for the br mutation. This study promotes the understanding of the molecular basis of body coloration in honeybees, enriching the molecular mechanisms underlying insect pigmentation.
Antimicrobial Properties of Colostrum and Milk
Authors: Eker Furkan , Akdaşçi Emir , Duman Hatice , Yalçıntaş Yalçın Mert , Canbolat Ahmet Alperen , Kalkan Arda Erkan , Karav Sercan , Šamec Dunja
Published: March 2024

The growing number of antibiotic resistance genes is putting a strain on the ecosystem and harming human health. In addition, consumers have developed a cautious attitude towards chemical preservatives. Colostrum and milk are excellent sources of antibacterial components that help to strengthen the immunity of the offspring and accelerate the maturation of the immune system. It is possible to study these important defenses of milk and colostrum, such as lactoferrin, lysozyme, immunoglobulins, oligosaccharides, etc., as biotherapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of numerous infections caused by microbes. Each of these components has different mechanisms and interactions in various places. The compound’s mechanisms of action determine where the antibacterial activity appears. The activation of the antibacterial activity of milk and colostrum compounds can start in the infant’s mouth during lactation and continue in the gastrointestinal regions. These antibacterial properties possess potential for therapeutic uses. In order to discover new perspectives and methods for the treatment of bacterial infections, additional investigations of the mechanisms of action and potential complexes are required.
Navigating the Chemical Space of ENR Inhibitors: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Kuralt Vid , Frlan Rok
Published: March 2024

Antimicrobial resistance is a global health threat that requires innovative strategies against drug-resistant bacteria. Our study focuses on enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductases (ENRs), in particular FabI, FabK, FabV, and InhA, as potential antimicrobial agents. Despite their promising potential, the lack of clinical approvals for inhibitors such as triclosan and isoniazid underscores the challenges in achieving preclinical success. In our study, we curated and analyzed a dataset of 1412 small molecules recognized as ENR inhibitors, investigating different structural variants. Using advanced cheminformatic tools, we mapped the physicochemical landscape and identified specific structural features as key determinants of bioactivity. Furthermore, we investigated whether the compounds conform to Lipinski rules, PAINS, and Brenk filters, which are crucial for the advancement of compounds in development pipelines. Furthermore, we investigated structural diversity using four different representations: Chemotype diversity, molecular similarity, t-SNE visualization, molecular complexity, and cluster analysis. By using advanced bioinformatics tools such as matched molecular pairs (MMP) analysis, machine learning, and SHAP analysis, we were able to improve our understanding of the activity cliques and the precise effects of the functional groups. In summary, this chemoinformatic investigation has unraveled the FAB inhibitors and provided insights into rational antimicrobial design, seamlessly integrating computation into the discovery of new antimicrobial agents.
Beyond Mortality: Exploring the Influence of Plant Phenolics on Modulating Ferroptosis—A Systematic Review
Authors: Živanović Nemanja , Lesjak Marija , Simin Nataša , Srai Surjit K. S.
Published: March 2024

Ferroptosis is a recently discovered type of programmed cell death that is mechanistically different from other types of programmed cell death such as apoptosis, necroptosis, and autophagy. It is characterized by the accumulation of intracellular iron, overproduction of reactive oxygen species, depletion of glutathione, and extensive lipid peroxidation of lipids in the cell membrane. It was discovered that ferroptosis is interconnected with many diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases, ischemia/reperfusion injury, cancer, and chronic kidney disease. Polyphenols, plant secondary metabolites known for many bioactivities, are being extensively researched in the context of their influence on ferroptosis which resulted in a great number of publications showing the need for a systematic review. In this review, an extensive literature search was performed. Databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer) were searched in the time span from 2017 to November 2023, using the keyword “ferroptosis” alone and in combination with “flavonoid”, “phenolic acid”, “stilbene”, “coumarin”, “anthraquinone”, and “chalcone”; after the selection of studies, we had 311 papers and 143 phenolic compounds. In total, 53 compounds showed the ability to induce ferroptosis, and 110 compounds were able to inhibit ferroptosis, and out of those compounds, 20 showed both abilities depending on the model system. The most researched compounds are shikonin, curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, and baicalin. The most common modes of action are in the modulation of the Nrf2/GPX4 and Nrf2/HO-1 axis and the modulation of iron metabolism.
Stability Analysis of GNSS Stations Affected by Samos Earthquake
Authors: Özarpacı Seda
Published: March 2024

An earthquake cycle can cause meters of displacement on the surface and at Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) stations. This study focuses on the identification of GNSS stations that have significant displacement because of a Mw 7.0 earthquake near Samos Island on 30 October 2020. The S-transformation method is used to examine 3D, 2D and 1D coordinate systems along with threshold and statistical test approaches. The highest coseismic offset among the 21 GNSS stations is displayed by SAMO, and CESM, MNTS, IZMI and IKAR also experience significant displacement. Significantly displaced stations are successfully identified in both 3D and 2D analyses. In the up component, SAMO is the only unstable station. The coordinate S-transformation method can be used in detecting unstable points in a GNSS network and provide valuable information about the effects of an earthquake on GNSS stations.
Framework for BIM-Based Repair History Management for Architectural Heritage
Authors: Park Jong Jin , Kim Kyeonghwan , Ji Seung-Yeul , Jun Han Jong
Published: March 2024

This research addresses the challenges faced in collecting and managing repair history information for architectural heritage due to its distribution among different institutions. To overcome this problem, this study proposes a building information modeling (BIM)-based repair history management framework that links non-formal repair details of architectural heritage to BIM. This framework was applied to the case study of the Great Hero Hall of Sudeoksa Temple in Yesan, South Korea. A repair history database in the form of structured data adhering to the historic building information modeling standard was utilized. The proposed framework effectively syncs the repair history database with BIM to preserve architectural heritage and streamline repair history information updates as well as management. Integrated heritage BIM is anticipated to furnish a thorough knowledge base for architectural heritage, comprising non-geometric details and formal information models, thus enhancing building maintenance planning. Ultimately, the benefits and limitations of the suggested framework and methodologies are deliberated for further implementation.
A Real-Time Sinkage Detection Method for the Planetary Robotic Wheel-on-Limb System via a Monocular Camera
Authors: Liu Baochang , Feng Lihang , Wang Dong
Published: March 2024

When traversing soft and rugged terrain, a planetary rover is susceptible to slipping and sinking, which impedes its movement. The real-time detection of wheel sinkage in the planetary wheel-on-limb system is crucial for enhancing motion safety and passability on such terrain. Initially, this study establishes a measurement of wheel sinkage under complex terrain conditions. Subsequently, a monocular vision-based wheel sinkage detection method is presented by combining the wheel–terrain boundary with the wheel center position (WTB-WCP). The method enables the efficient and accurate detection of wheel sinkage through two-stage parallel computation of the wheel–terrain boundary fitting and wheel center localization. Finally, this study establishes an experimental platform based on a monocular camera and the planetary rover wheel-on-limb system to experimentally validate and comparatively analyze the proposed method. The experimental results demonstrate that the method effectively provides information on the wheel sinkage of the planetary rover wheel-on-limb system, and the relative errors of the method do not exceed 4%. The method has high accuracy and reliability and is greatly significant for the safety and passability of planetary rovers in soft and rugged terrain.
New Advances in Audio Signal Processing
Authors: Costantini Giovanni , Casali Daniele , Cesarini Valerio
Published: March 2024

The growth in computing capabilities has significantly transformed the realm of data analysis and processing, most notably through the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning technologies [...]
Study on the Mechanism of Stress Sensitivity Changes in Ultra-Deep Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Cai Wanjie , Jiang Shan , Liu Hong
Published: March 2024

Quantitative evaluation of stress sensitivity of ultra-deep carbonate reservoirs has been one of the challenges in exploration and development, and the problem of permeability loss law in ultra-deep carbonates under variable stress conditions has not been solved so far and further research is urgently needed. Through experimental and numerical simulation methods, the stress-sensitive evaluation equations were established based on matrix-type carbonate and fractured carbonate reservoirs, the stress-sensitive changes under different Young’s modulus were discussed, and the degree of permeability loss under different stresses was evaluated. Finally, the dual-media model of ultra-deep carbonate was established, and the practical application was carried out in the Shunbei area of the Tarim Basin. Studies have shown that (1) under the same effective stress, the stress sensitivity of matrix-type and fracture-type carbonate reservoirs is related to the Young’s modulus of the rock skeleton. In matrix-type carbonate reservoirs, rocks with a larger Young’s modulus have smaller rigidity and stronger stress sensitivity. In fracture-type carbonate reservoirs, the stress sensitivity is relatively weak under a smaller Young’s modulus, and relatively strong under a larger Young’s modulus. (2) Measured under the conditions of 87 MPa of peripheral pressure, 50 MPa of flow pressure, and 120 °C, the effective stress of matrix-type carbonate reservoirs has an exponential relationship with the permeability of reservoirs. The degree of stress sensitivity for fracture-type is generally higher than that of matrix-type reservoirs, and the smaller the Young’s modulus, the larger the difference in stress sensitivity. (3) The stress sensitivity of typical ultra-deep carbonates in the Shunbei area of the Tarim Basin is higher by establishing a dual-porosity model based on the initiating pressure gradient, which supports new evidence for the characteristics of ultra-deep carbonates with high-stress sensitivity. In actual production, the impact of stress sensitivity on the reservoir volume calculation and efficient development of ultra-deep carbonate reservoirs requires critical attention.
Comparison of Domain Selection Methods for Multi-Source Manifold Feature Transfer Learning in Electroencephalogram Classification
Authors: Maswanganyi Rito Clifford , Tu Chungling , Owolawi Pius Adewale , Du Shengzhi
Published: March 2024

Transfer learning (TL) utilizes knowledge from the source domain (SD) to enhance the classification rate in the target domain (TD). It has been widely used to address the challenge of sessional and inter-subject variations in electroencephalogram (EEG)-based brain–computer interfaces (BCIs). However, utilizing knowledge from a combination of both related and non-related sources can significantly deteriorate the classification performance across individual target domains, resulting in a negative transfer (NT). Hence, NT becomes one of the most significant challenges for transfer learning algorithms. Notably, domain selection techniques have been developed to address the challenge of NT emerging from the transfer of knowledge from non-related sources. However, existing domain selection approaches iterate through domains and remove a single low-beneficial domain at a time, which can massively affect the classification performance in each iteration since SDs respond differently to other sources. In this paper, we compare domain selection techniques for a multi-source manifold feature transfer learning (MMFT) framework to address the challenge of NT and then evaluate the effect of beneficial and non-beneficial sources on TL performance. To evaluate the effect of low-beneficial and high beneficial sources on TL performance, some commonly used domain selection methods are compared, namely, domain transferability estimation (DTE), rank of domain (ROD), label similarity analysis, and enhanced multi-class MMFT (EMC-MMFT), using the same multi-class cross-session and cross-subject classification problems. The experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the EMC-MMFT algorithm in terms of minimizing the effect of NT. The highest classification accuracy (CA) of 100% is achieved when optimal combinations of high beneficial sources are selected for two-class SSMVEP problems, while the highest CAs of 98% and 87% are achieved for three- and four-class SSMVEP problems, respectively. The highest CA of 98% is achieved for two-class MI classification problems, while the highest CAs of 90% and 71.5% are obtained for three- and four-class MI problems, respectively.
Round-Based Mechanism and Job Packing with Model-Similarity-Based Policy for Scheduling DL Training in GPU Cluster
Authors: Thanapol Panissara , Lavangnananda Kittichai , Leprévost Franck , Glad Arnaud , Schleich Julien , Bouvry Pascal
Published: March 2024

Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) are employed for their parallel processing capabilities, which are essential to train deep learning (DL) models with large datasets within a reasonable time. However, the diverse GPU architectures exhibit variability in training performance depending on DL models. Furthermore, factors such as the number of GPUs for distributed training and batch size significantly impact training efficiency. Addressing the variability in training performance and accounting for these influential factors are critical for optimising resource usage. This paper presents a scheduling policy for DL training tasks in a heterogeneous GPU cluster. It builds upon a model-similarity-based scheduling policy by implementing a round-based mechanism and job packing. The round-based mechanism allows the scheduler to adjust its scheduling decisions periodically, whereas job packing optimises GPU utilisation by fitting additional jobs into a GPU that trains a small model. Results show that implementing a round-based mechanism reduces the makespan by approximately 29%, compared to the scenario without it. Additionally, integrating job packing further decreases the makespan by 5%.
Evaluation of Two Momentum Control Variable Schemes in Radar Data Assimilation and Their Impact on the Analysis and Forecast of a Snowfall Case in Central and Eastern China
Authors: Wan Shen , Shen Feifei , Chen Jiajun , Liu Lin , Dong Debao , He Zhixin
Published: March 2024

To evaluate the impact of different momentum control variable (CV) schemes (CV5, the momentum control variable option with ψχ and CV7, the momentum control variable option with UV) on radar data assimilation (DA) in weather research and forecasting model data-assimilation (WRFDA) systems, a heavy snowfall in central and eastern regions of China, which started on 6 February 2022, was taken as a case in this study. The results of the wind-field increments from the single observation tests indicated that the wind-field increments had a larger range of influence when stream function and velocity potential (ψχ) were used as momentum control variables in CV5. Some spurious increments were also generated in the wind-field analysis, since CV5 tended to maintain the integrated value of the wind field. When U-wind and V-wind were used as control variables in CV7, the wind-field increments had a smaller impact range, and there was less dependence among different locations on the wind increments. For the heavy snow case, the CV7 schemes displayed some improvements in simulating the composite reflectivity compared to the other two experiments, since the composite reflectivity in the CV5 and control experiments were overestimated to some level. It was also found that the RMSEs were lower in the CV7 compared to those in the CV5 in the short-term forecasts during the data-assimilation cycles. Results also indicated that the CV7 had a more significant effect on the 6 h accumulated precipitation forecasts. Meanwhile, the experiment Exp_CV7 achieved the best ETS and FSS scores among the three groups of experiments, while Exp_CV5 appeared to be generally superior to the CTRL. In summary, the precipitation of Exp_CV7 yielded the rainfall intensity and location most close to the observation compared to those from both the CTRL and Exp_CV5 experiments.
Applications of Imaging Technologies in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Han Sang Beom , Liu Yu-Chi , Liu Chang , Mehta Jodhbir S.
Published: March 2024

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a complex genetic disorder characterized by the slow and progressive degeneration of corneal endothelial cells. Thus, it may result in corneal endothelial decompensation and irreversible corneal edema. Moreover, FECD is associated with alterations in all corneal layers, such as thickening of the Descemet membrane, stromal scarring, subepithelial fibrosis, and the formation of epithelial bullae. Hence, anterior segment imaging devices that enable precise measurement of functional and anatomical changes in the cornea are essential for the management of FECD. In this review, the authors will introduce studies on the application of various imaging modalities, such as anterior segment optical coherence tomography, Scheimpflug corneal tomography, specular microscopy, in vitro confocal microscopy, and retroillumination photography, in the diagnosis and monitoring of FECD and discuss the results of these studies. The application of novel technologies, including image processing technology and artificial intelligence, that are expected to further enhance the accuracy, precision, and speed of the imaging technologies will also be discussed.
Activation of Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor in Microglia Reduces Neuroinflammation through Inhibiting Aerobic Glycolysis to Relieve Hypertension
Authors: Shan Ruohan , Zhang Yuxiang , Shi Yiping , Wang Xiaowen , Wang Xueke , Ma Guanying , Li Qian
Published: March 2024

Background: Studies have shown that the chronic use of cannabis is associated with a decrease in blood pressure. Our previous studies prove that activating the cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor in the brain can effectively reduce blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats; however, the exact mechanism has not been clarified. The objective of this study is to demonstrate that activation of microglial CB2 receptors can effectively reduce the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) through inhibiting aerobic glycolysis, thereby relieving hypertension. Methods: AngiotensinII (AngII) was administered to BV2 cells and C57 mice to induce hypertension and the release of proinflammatory cytokines. The mRNA and protein expression of the CB2 receptor, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and the PFK and LDHa enzymes were detected using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. The Seahorse XF Energy Metabolism Analyzer was used to measure the oxidative phosphorylation and aerobic glycolysis metabolic pathways in BV2 cells. The long-term effects of injecting JWH133, a selective CB2 receptor agonist, intraperitoneally on blood pressure were ascertained. ELISA was used to measure norepinephrine and lactic acid levels while immunofluorescence labeling was used to locate the CB2 receptor and c-Fos. By injecting pAAV-F4/80-GFP-mir30shRNA (AAV2-r-CB2shRNA) into the lateral cerebral ventricle, the CB2 receptor in microglia was specifically knocked down. Results: Activation of CB2 receptors by the agonist JWH133 suppressed TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 by inhibiting PFK and LDHa enzymes involved in glycolysis, as well as lactic acid accumulation, along with a reduction in glycoPER levels (marks of aerobic glycolysis) in AngII-treated BV2 cells. In AngII-treated mice, the administration of JWH133 specifically activated CB2 receptors on microglia, resulting in decreased expression levels of PFK, LDHa, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, subsequently leading to a decrease in c-Fos protein expression within PVN neurons as well as reduced norepinephrine levels in plasma, ultimately contributing to blood pressure reduction. Conclusion: The results suggest that activation of the microglia CB2 receptor decreases the neuroinflammation to relieve hypertension; the underlying mechanism is related to inhibiting aerobic glycolysis of microglia.
Associations of the CYP7A1 Gene Polymorphisms Located in the Promoter and Enhancer Regions with the Risk of Acute Coronary Syndrome, Plasma Cholesterol, and the Incidence of Diabetes
Authors: Vargas-Alarcón Gilberto , Pérez-Méndez Óscar , Posadas-Sánchez Rosalinda , González-Pacheco Héctor , Luna-Luna María , Escobedo Galileo , Fragoso José Manuel
Published: March 2024

Cholesterol-7-alpha hydroxylase (CYP7A1) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of bile salts, and its activity can contribute to determining cholesterol levels and, consequently, the risk of developing coronary atherosclerotic disease. We evaluated whether seven (rs3808607 G/T, rs9297994 G/A, rs10504255 A/G, rs8192870 G/T, rs2081687 C/T, rs1457043 C/T, and rs10107182 C/T) polymorphisms located in the promoter and enhancer regions of the CYP7A1 gene, which have not been sufficiently explored, are candidates of risk markers of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the Mexican population. These polymorphisms were determined in a group of 1317 patients with ACS and 1046 control subjects. The results showed that, under different inheritance models, the alleles rs9297994 G, rs10504255 G, rs8192870 T, rs2081687 T, and rs10107182 C were significantly associated with an increased risk of ACS (pC < 0.05). In addition, the incidence of dyslipidemia among patients with ACS, notably high total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol, and low HDL-cholesterol plasma levels, were more frequent in carriers of the same five risk alleles associated with ACS (p < 0.05). There was also an unexpected increased incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in patients with ACS who are homozygous for the rs2081687 T, rs9297944 G, rs10504255 G, and rs10107182 C alleles of the CYP7A1 gene, suggesting that such gene variants enhance the development of coronary complications in patients with diabetes (p < 0.05). In summary, our study demonstrated that five polymorphisms situated in the promoter and enhancer regions of the CYP7A1 gene are associated with the risk of ACS and higher incidences of dyslipidemia and T2DM in Mexican patients with ACS.