bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of the Bilateral Integration exercise program on the cognitive functioning of pupils with moderate intellectual disabilities
Authors: Koper Magdalena , Lewandowska Magdalena , Rękosiewicz Małgorzata
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Children with intellectual disability tend to exhibit lower performance in fundamental movement skills, such as locomotor skills, object control skills, and balance, compared to their typically developing peers. Evidence suggests that physical activity programs tailored for individuals with intellectual disabilities can positively influence the development of their motor skills. Similar to typically developing children, physical activity in children with intellectual disabilities stimulates not only physical development, but also brain function, resulting in cognitive benefits. However, the extent of physical activity’s impact on the cognitive functioning of this population remains insufficiently explored. The aim of our study was to assess the effectiveness of a motor exercise program based on the Bilateral Integration method implemented for pupils with moderate intellectual disabilities.

Methods

The sample consisted of 27 pupils with moderate intellectual disability (13 in the intervention group and 14 in the control group) from two special schools in Poland. Pupils in the intervention group participated in a modified version of the Bilateral Integration School Program - a 26-week physical activity program that included both individual and group sessions. The assessment of cognitive functioning, using the Fifth Edition of the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Subtests, was conducted over three time points in both groups: a pre-test before the intervention (T1), a post-test after the intervention phase end (T2) and a follow-up assessment three months after the post-test (T3).

Results

Significant effects of the intervention compared to the control group were observed in certain cognitive variables. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant group-by-time interaction for the Nonverbal Visual-Spatial Processing score, Nonverbal Working Memory score, as well as Verbal Fluid Reasoning.

Discussion

The original program based on the Bilateral Integration method proved effective for pupils with moderate intellectual disability. Preliminary results indicate improvements in cognition, particularly in working memory and visual-spatial processing. Further studies are necessary to assess the program’s efficacy comprehensively.
Association between the Planetary Health Diet Index and biological aging among the U.S. population
Authors: Huang Shaoqun , Hu Haoying , Gong Hongyang
Published: October 2024

Background

The Planetary Health Diet (PHD) is a novel dietary pattern proposed by the EAT-Lancet Commission in 2019, yet a limited study has investigated the anti-aging effects of PHD to date.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the association between adherence to PHD, as quantified by the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI), and biological aging in American populations.

Methods

Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for 1999–2018. Food consumption information was relied on two 24-h diet recall questionnaires. The biological aging condition was comprehensively assessed by four biological markers, including phenotypic age, biological age, telomere length, and klotho concentration. Weighted multivariate linear models, restricted cubic spline (RCS), and subgroup analysis were subsequently carried out to evaluate the influence of PHDI on biological aging.

Results

44,925 participants with complete data were finally enrolled in our study. The fully adjusted models showed decreased 0.20 years in phenotypic age [−0.20 (−0.31, −0.10)] and declined 0.54 years in biological age [−0.54 (−0.69, −0.38)] correlated with PHDI per 10 scores increment. Klotho concentration [6.2 (1.0, 11.0)] was positively related to PHDI. In Model 2, telomere length increased by 0.02 bp for every 10-point rise in PHDI. Besides, the RCS analysis results exhibited a curvilinear relationship between PHDI and four indicators.

Conclusion

Our study explored a significant correlation between PHDI and biological aging, indicating that adherence to PHD may prevent biological aging.
Value-based care as a solution to resolve the open debate on public healthcare outsourcing in Europe: What do the available data say?
Authors: Caramés Cristina , Arcos Javier , Pfang Bernadette , Cristóbal Ion , Álvaro de la Parra Juan Antonio
Published: October 2024

Controversy surrounds the current debate regarding the effects of outsourcing health services, as recent studies claim that increased outsourcing leads to reduced costs at the expense of worse patient outcomes. The goal of the value-based model is to enable healthcare systems to create more value for patients, and evidence points to improvements in public health outcomes, patient experience, and health expenditure in systems incorporating components of value-based healthcare. Some emerging evidence indicates promising results for outsourced hospitals which follow a value-based model of healthcare delivery. Although additional future studies are still needed to confirm these benefits, value-based healthcare merits discussion as a new perspective on the public versus private management debate. In fact, we argue that outsourcing to value-based health providers could represent a valid alternative for public health management, encouraging greater competition within the healthcare sector while ensuring quality of care for both public and private sectors.
Investigating antimicrobial resistance genes in probiotic products for companion animals
Authors: Kerek Adam , Szabó Emese , Szabó Ábel , Papp Márton , Bányai Krisztián , Kardos Gábor , Kaszab Eszter , Bali Krisztina , Jerzsele Ákos
Published: October 2024

Introduction

One of the greatest challenges of our time is antimicrobial resistance, which could become the leading cause of death globally within a few decades. In the context of One Health, it is in the common interest to mitigate the global spread of antimicrobial resistance by seeking alternative solutions, alongside appropriate drug selection and responsible use. Probiotics offer a potential avenue to reduce antibiotic usage; however, there is a scarcity of research that examines commercial products in terms of carrying antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) involved in resistance development through microbial vectors.

Methods

Our study investigated 10 commercially available probiotic products for cats and dogs. Initially, we conducted phenotypic testing through determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for antibiotics important in animal and public health. Subsequently, we performed next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the products to elucidate the genetic background behind the decrease in phenotypic sensitivity.

Results

In total, 19 types of ARGs were identified, with 57.9% being found on plasmids, and in two cases, carriage as mobile genetic elements were found. One of the genes identified was the APH(3′)-Ia gene, capable of inactivating aminoglycoside antibiotics through phosphotransferase enzyme production regulation, while the other was the tetS gene, capable of conferring reduced sensitivity to tetracycline antibiotics through target protection.

Discussion

Our findings underscore the importance of approaching antimicrobial resistance investigations from a broader perspective. We suggest that further studies in this area are justified and raise questions regarding the need to extend legally required studies on probiotic products from their use in economic livestock to their use in companion animals.
Speciális fogászati ellátást igénylő beteg teljes szájüregi rehabilitációja
Authors: Kesjár Katinka , Szabó Enikő , Szmirnova Ilona , Molnár Bálint , Géczy Zoltán , Vág János
Published: October 2024

Bevezetés: A speciális fogászati ellátást igénylő betegek fogazati állapota messze alulmarad az egészséges populációéhozképest. Ellátásukhoz nagyon sok esetben bódításra, altatásra, a fogorvosi munkacsapat messzemenőkig összehangoltmunkájára van szükség. A betegségcsoportban nagy számban képviseltetik magukat fiatal személyek, megtartottfogazattal, akiknél a kellő időben történő fogmegtartó kezelés különösen fontos lenne a későbbi invazív, jelentős időbeliés anyagi ráfordítást igénylő kezelések elkerülése érdekében.Esetismertetés: A kezelendő páciens 29 éves férfi, akinél terápiarezisztens epilepsziát diagnosztizáltak. Az első kezelésnéla beteg együttműködését mértük fel, a professzionális szájhigiénés kezelés és a tanulmányi lenyomatok vételesorán. A reménytelen prognózisú fogak eltávolítása és a két állcsonton történő koronahosszabbító műtét, a neurológusjavaslatára, altatásban történt. A konzerváló fogászati beavatkozások után a páciensnek fémkerámia híd, valamint sínpótláskészült fém rágófelszínnel. 4 év elteltével a vizsgálat alkalmával a páciens rohamai gyakoriságának növekedésérőlszámolt be, ennek ellenére a pótláson sérülést nem észleltünk.Összefoglalás: Minden páciensnél individuálisan kell meghatározni a kezelés menetét a kooperáció és az egyéni toleranciafüwggvényében. Cikkünkben részben altatásos kezelést igénylő, fiatal, terápiarezisztens epilepsziás beteg teljesszájüregi rehabilitációjának bemutatásával kívánunk betekintést nyújtani az ellátás kihívásaiba.
An Analysis of Critical Factors Affecting the Success of Open Innovation Strategies in High-Tech Firms: The Case of South Korea
Authors: Song Minkyu , Kim Boyoung
Published: October 2024

High-tech firms face constant innovation and challenges due to a rapidly changing tech environment. Open innovation strategies are an important solution for fostering rapid and efficient innovation by leveraging external capabilities. This study explores the critical factors that influence open innovation strategies in high-tech companies, assessing their importance and providing key insights for promoting these strategies. Through a comprehensive literature review and expert interviews, 16 key factors impacting open innovation were identified. A hierarchical research model was developed using the ser-M (subject, environment, resource, mechanism) framework, focusing on subject, environment, resource, and mechanism for a corporate strategy analysis. A survey and an AHP analysis were conducted with 30 participants, comprising engineers and open innovation experts, all with over a decade of experience in the field within Korean high-tech companies. The analysis focused on four critical elements: subject, environment, resource, and mechanism; subject emerged as the most critical factor for successfully implementing open innovation strategies. Specifically, the will of chief executives, the direction of decision-making, and technological environment changes were found to be significant contributors. The consensus between engineers and experts confirms that while environmental and resource factors are vital, strong leadership and effective decision-making are paramount for successful open innovation in high-tech companies.
Effects of Wake Separation on Aerodynamic Interference Between Rotors in Urban Low-Altitude UAV Formation Flight
Authors: Liu Cong , Li Baiqing , Wei Zhiqiang , Zhang Zongwei , Shan Zezhong , Wang Yu
Published: October 2024

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) formation flight has become an effective strategy for urban air mobility (UAM). However, close rotor separation during formation flight leads to complex aerodynamic interference between rotors, significantly affecting UAV flight performance and operational safety. This study systematically examines the effects of axial and lateral rotor separation on the rotor’s thrust performance through wind tunnel experiments. The tests simulate horizontal, vertical, and hovering states by generating relative airflow in the wind tunnel, focusing primarily on the thrust coefficient changes of the bottom rotor at various separations. The results are compared with a single rotor operating under the same conditions without wake interference. Additionally, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations using the Fluent software were conducted to investigate the effect of wake interactions by analyzing the velocity flow field between the two rotors in different separations. Both the experimental and simulation results demonstrate that rotor aerodynamic performance is notably influenced by wake interactions. Under hovering and vertical states, substantial aerodynamic interference occurs in the region directly beneath the top rotor, within 1D ≤ Z ≤ 3D. This interference gradually diminishes as the rotor separation increases. Additionally, the thrust coefficient of the bottom rotor decreases with increasing flight speed due to the wake, and at higher flight speeds, the wake tends to contract. When the lateral separation is X = 0D, the mid-sectional flow field of the two rotors exhibits symmetry; however, with lateral separation, the symmetry of the bottom rotor’s wake velocity field is disrupted. During the horizontal flight, the rotor wake tilts backward due to the relative airflow, and the extent of this influence is governed by both rotor rotational speed and flight velocity. Therefore, when UAVs operate in formation, it is crucial to account for these factors affecting aerodynamic performance, and rotor separation must be optimized to enhance flight safety and efficiency.
Estimation Network for Multiple Chemical Parameters of Astragalus Leaves Based on Attention Mechanism and Multivariate Hyperspectral Features
Authors: Zhou Yulong , Xiao Zhiyun , Bao Tengfei , Fang Tao
Published: October 2024

In the context of smart agriculture, accurately estimating plant leaf chemical parameters is crucial for optimizing crop management and improving agricultural yield. Hyperspectral imaging, with its ability to capture detailed spectral information across various wavelengths, has emerged as a powerful tool in this regard. However, the complex and high-dimensional nature of hyperspectral data poses significant challenges in extracting meaningful features for precise estimation. To address this challenge, this study proposes an end-to-end estimation network for multiple chemical parameters of Astragalus leaves based on attention mechanism (AM) and multivariate hyperspectral features (AM-MHENet). We leverage HybridSN and multilayer perceptron (MLP) to extract prominent features from the hyperspectral data of Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus (AMM) leaves and stems, as well as the surface and deep soil surrounding AMM roots. This methodology allows us to capture the most significant characteristics present in these hyperspectral data with high precision. The AM is subsequently used to assign weights and integrate the hyperspectral features extracted from different parts of the AMM. The MLP is then employed to simultaneously estimate the chlorophyll content (CC) and nitrogen content (NC) of AMM leaves. Compared with estimation networks that utilize only hyperspectral data from AMM leaves as input, our proposed end-to-end AM-MHENet demonstrates superior estimation performance. Specifically, AM-MHENet achieves an R2 of 0.983, an RMSE of 0.73, an MAE of 0.49, and an RPD of 7.63 for the estimation of CC in AMM leaves. For NC estimation, AM-MHENet achieves an R2 value of 0.977, an RMSE of 0.27, an MAE of 0.16, and an RPD of 6.62. These results underscore AM-MHENet’s effectiveness in significantly enhancing the accuracy of both CC and NC estimation in AMM leaves. Moreover, these findings indirectly suggest a strong correlation between the development of AMM leaves and stems, as well as the surface and deep soil surrounding the roots of AMM, and directly highlight the ability of AM to effectively focus on the relevant spectral features within the hyperspectral data. The findings from this study could offer valuable insights into the simultaneous estimation of multiple chemical parameters in plants, thereby making a contribution to the existing body of research in this field.
Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Green and Red Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala) Microgreens Grown Under White, Red, and Blue LED Combinations
Authors: Podsędek Anna , Frąszczak Barbara , Kajszczak Dominika , Sosnowska Dorota
Published: October 2024

Microgreens have great potential for improving the nutritional value of human diets, as well as constituting a promising dietary option for preventing chronic disease. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are commercially used as a light source to improve the growth of microgreens, as well as nutrient and bioactive compound accumulation. Here, we provide the first report of the phenolic compound, chlorophyll and carotenoid pigment, and dietary fiber contents of red and green kale microgreens grown in a growth chamber under white LEDs combined with red or blue light. Significant differences in the response of phytocompounds between white light and its combination with blue or red LEDs were determined. These studies showed that a combination of white and blue LEDs positively influenced the accumulation of phenolic compounds, which consequently determined high antioxidant activity. On the contrary, the white LED lights were the most suitable for the accumulation of carotenoids and chlorophylls, including chlorophyll a and b, and Klason lignin. These results suggest that the use of a combination of white light with blue or red light can increase the concentration of phenolic compounds and dietary fiber in red and green kale microgreens and thus may enhance their health-promoting potential.
Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis Uncovers Critical Genes and Pathways Involved in Soybean Response to Soybean Mosaic Virus
Authors: Zhu Hanhan , Li Ruiqiong , Fang Yaoyao , Zhao Xue , Teng Weili , Li Haiyan , Han Yingpeng
Published: October 2024

Background: Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) is a globally prevalent and detrimental virus that belongs to the Potyvirus genus. Pathogenic viruses of this genus are typically linear in shape, with dimensions ranging between 630 and 750 nm, and are composed of single-stranded RNA and proteins. We have developed an SMV-resistant soybean line, Dongnong 93-046, which has no significant changes in disease resistance identification in the adult plants and has neat grains with no obvious brown or black markings. To explore the defense mechanisms of soybean against SMV, we performed comparative transcriptomic sequencing of the leaves between the Dongnong 93-046 inoculated with SMV at 8 h (T) and the non-inoculated control (C) on the HiSeq2000 platform. In addition, we performed non-targeted metabolomic sequencing of leaves from the treatment and control groups. Results: We identified a total of 41,189 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). A total of 9809 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) met the criteria of |Log2FC (Fold Change)| ≥ 1 and adjusted p-value ≤ 0.001. Among the 41,189 DEGs identified, 9196 exhibited FPKM values greater than 10. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of the 9809 DEGs revealed significant enrichment of genes involved in resistance-related pathways such as plant–pathogen interaction, linoleic acid metabolism, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, and plant hormone signaling transduction. Functional analysis using MapMan software identified multiple DEGs that were associated with pathways such as jasmonate synthesis and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) using the differential metabolites and the 9196 DEGs revealed a strong correlation between gene clusters within the Turquoise module and the content of jasmonate-related metabolites. Further functional enrichment analysis of the 894 genes within the gene clusters showed a significant and repeated enrichment of pathways related to plant–pathogen interaction, linoleic acid metabolism, and plant hormone signaling transduction. Subsequent focused pathway analysis identified key genes involved in plant hormone signaling transduction pathways, such as the jasmonate ZIM domain protein Glyma.16G010000, the gene Glyma.01G235600 encoding the essential diterpene reductase required for jasmonate synthesis in the jasmonate biosynthesis pathway, and the transcription factor Glyma.02G232600 involved in the plant–pathogen interaction pathway, among others. This study provides a theoretical framework for understanding the resistance mechanism of soybean cultivar Dongnong 93-046 against the SMV N1 strain, offers potential gene resources for breeding soybean varieties with resistance to SMV, and paves the way for new strategies to control SMV infection, enhance resistance, and improve crop yield and quality.
Maize-Straw Biochar Enhances Soil Properties and Grain Yield of Foxtail Millet in a Newly Reclaimed Land
Authors: Hou Xuyan , He Wei , Zhang Yi , Zhang Ningning , Yan Jiakun , Chen Yinglong
Published: October 2024

Large-scale land reclamation has become common in northwestern China; however, low soil fertility and poor soil water-holding capacity limit agricultural production on these reclaimed lands, requiring increased fertilizer and irrigation inputs. Biochar, produced from agricultural waste, has shown potential in improving soil quality and water-holding capacity. In this two-year field study (2021 and 2022), we investigated the effects of biochar produced from maize straw on soil properties and grain yield of foxtail millet grown on newly reclaimed land. Three biochar treatments (3000, 4500, and 6000 kg ha−1) were compared to a control (CK) with no biochar application. Biochar application resulted in increased soil organic matter, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, soil enzyme activity, and soil organic acid content. It also significantly decreased soil pH and bulk density. Compared with the CK, biochar increased available nitrogen from 29.7% to 108% in 2021 and 37.0% to 88.4% in 2022. Similarly, biochar increased available phosphorus from 64.7% to 143% in 2021 and 41.9% to 96.5% in 2022. Grain yields ranged from 3092 to 4753 kg ha−1. Biochar treatments increased grain yield compared to the CK, ranging from 12.2% to 24.6% in 2021 and 27.1% to 53.7% in 2022. Correlation analysis revealed that soil pH was negatively related to soil oxalic acid content, phosphorus content, and sucrase activity. Available nitrogen and phosphorus contents were negatively related to soil bulk density and positively related to catalase activity. Soil water content was negatively correlated with soil bulk density and positively correlated with organic matter. In conclusion, biochar improved the rhizosphere soil pH and the effectiveness of soil fertility in the newly reclaimed soil, resulting in an enhanced grain yield of foxtail millet.
Preventing Overturning of Mobile Cranes Using an Electrical Resistivity Measurement System
Authors: Jang Hongseok , Lee Yeonho , Lee Hongseok , Cha Youngtaek , Choi Sungjoon , Park Jongkyu
Published: October 2024

Mobile cranes are essential for transporting heavy materials at construction sites, but their operation carries significant safety risks, particularly due to the potential for overturning accidents. These accidents can be classified into two main categories: mechanical accidents, which are caused by factors such as outrigger failure, excessive load weight, and operator skill, and environmental accidents, which arise from ground subsidence due to groundwater and sinkholes. While numerous studies have addressed the causes and prevention of mechanical accidents, there has been a lack of research focusing on the prevention of environmental accidents. This study presents the development of an Electrical Resistivity Measurement System (ERMS) designed to prevent overturning accidents caused by ground subsidence at mobile crane work sites. The ERMS, mounted on a mobile crane, continuously monitors the ground conditions in real time and predicts the likelihood of ground subsidence to prevent accidents. Unlike typical buried electrode methods, the proposed system features a foldable electrode mechanism and a water supply device, thereby making installation and removal more efficient. Furthermore, it uses a ground stability determination algorithm that qualitatively assesses soft ground conditions, which are the primary cause of ground subsidence. The performance of the ERMS was validated through comparisons with commercial equipment, and its applicability was further confirmed through field tests conducted at mobile crane installations. The ERMS is expected to significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by ground subsidence during mobile crane operations and to contribute to enhancing overall safety in construction environments.
Pumpkin Pomace Powder as a Bioactive Powder Ingredient for Whey Cheese Production
Authors: Lipșa Florin Daniel , Ulea Eugen , Gafencu Andrei-Mihai , Florea Andreea-Mihaela , Rațu Roxana Nicoleta , Stoica Florina , Motrescu Iuliana , Râpeanu Gabriela
Published: October 2024

Pumpkin, a nutritious and economical product with health benefits, is harvested worldwide. This study investigates the feasibility of incorporating fiber-, carotenoid-, and mineral-rich pumpkin pomace powder (PPP), a by-product of pumpkin processing, into whey cheese to enhance its nutritional profile without affecting consumer acceptability. The cheese was enhanced with varying concentrations of PPP (3% and 6%), and each variant was analyzed for its nutritional content, minerals, phytochemicals, color, and sensory properties. The results demonstrate that PPP addition increased the phytochemicals (45.44–82.83 mg GAE/100 g dw) and antioxidant activity (470.25–977.41 µmol TE/g dw) of the enriched cheese. The findings show that the addition of PPP improved the nutritional, color, and minerals of the enhanced whey cheese. The sensory evaluation indicates that with up to a 3% addition of PPP, the obtained cheese was well-received by consumers, who appreciated the subtle changes in flavor and the enhanced color of the product. The structural analysis reveals that including PPP improved the moisture retention of the cheese, contributing to a creamier texture, which is a desirable attribute in cheese. The study concludes that PPP can be effectively used to enrich cheese, offering a phytochemical-enriched cheese that caters to health-conscious consumers while also addressing the issue of food waste in the pumpkin processing industry.
Distributed Multi-Sensor Fusion for Multi-Group/Extended Target Tracking with Different Limited Fields of View
Authors: Xiong Chao , Hu Moufa , Lu Huanzhang , Zhao Fei
Published: October 2024

The identification of sensing group targets and extended targets is of paramount importance in the context of vehicle tracking and early warning detection. As the scope of target monitoring and tracking extends, conventional single-sensor-based tracking techniques are proving to be inadequate in meeting the practical demands of the field. Consequently, multi-sensor fusion tracking technology has emerged as a viable alternative. However, the use of multiple sensors is constrained by their limited fields of view (FOVs), which leads to issues such as the loss of target detection and the introduction of false targets after fusion. Hence, this study proposes a combination of weighted geometric averaging (WGA) and weighted arithmetic averaging (WAA) methods to solve distributed multi-group/extended target tracking with different fields of view. Specifically, a local Poisson multi-Bernoulli mixture (PMBM) filter was first used on individual sensors. Subsequently, we combined a sequential fusion technique and the proposed fusion approach to fuse the PMBM filter densities. The efficacy and superiority of this approach were demonstrated through simulations.
Prediction of Transonic Shock Buffet over Supercritical Airfoil OAT15A Based on Zonal Detached-Eddy Simulation
Authors: Liu Tiejun , Chen Xingyu , Tian Zhuoyue , Li Jie
Published: October 2024

The zonal detached-eddy simulation (ZDES) method divides the flow field into different computational modes, offering flexibility in the simulation of complex flows. The transonic shock buffet on the upper surface of the OAT15A supercritical airfoil is numerically simulated by ZDES based on the k-ω SST model. The results show that the error in the low-frequency characteristics of the transonic shock buffet predicted by ZDES compared to experiments is within 3%. Its predictions of pressure fluctuations and averaged velocity agree better with the experimental data. Overall, ZDES is effective in predicting the periodic oscillations of shock waves along the streamwise direction, flow separation induced by shock wave motion, and the small-scale vortex structures in the wake region.
Neuromodulation Effect According to Lesion Location After Dual-Mode Brain Stimulation in Patients with Subacute Stroke: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lee Minji , Park Wanjoo , Park Eunhee , Kweon Soon-Jae , Kim Yun-Hee
Published: October 2024

Dual-mode non-invasive brain stimulation using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial direct current stimulation is known to help neurorehabilitation in patients with stroke. However, this neuromodulation effect may vary depending on the lesion location of patients with stroke, and the basis in lesion location for this is insufficient. This study aims to investigate the difference in neuromodulation effectiveness according to the lesion location after dual-mode brain stimulation using electroencephalography signals. Eight patients with ischemic subacute stroke and 11 healthy controls participated in this study. Brain stimulation was conducted in one session per day for a total of 10 days over the motor cortex, electroencephalography was measured for 5 min with eyes closed, and motor function was evaluated before and after dual-mode stimulation. The lesion location was divided into an infratentorial stroke (ITS) and a supratentorial stroke (STS) based on tentorium cerebelli. In addition, we focused on the mu and beta bands related to motor function. In terms of intrahemispheric connectivity, the mu weighted phase lag index over the contralesional primary motor cortex was significantly higher in only ITS before stimulation compared to healthy controls, and mu Granger causality over the ipsilesional primary motor cortex was significantly higher in both ITS and STS after stimulation compared to healthy controls. In contrast, from the perspective of interhemispheric connectivity, the laterality of beta Granger causality before stimulation in ITS was lower than that of healthy controls and significantly increased after stimulation. The effect of brain stimulation may vary depending on the lesion location of patients with stroke, and these findings provide indicative insights into effective dual-mode stimulation interventions for neurorehabilitation.
Advancements in Technologies and Methodologies of Machine Learning in Landslide Susceptibility Research: Current Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Lu Zongyue , Liu Genyuan , Song Zhihong , Sun Kang , Li Ming , Chen Yansi , Zhao Xidong , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2024

Landslides are pervasive geological hazards that pose significant risks to human life, property, and the environment. Understanding landslide susceptibility is crucial for predicting and mitigating these disasters. This article advocates for a comprehensive review by systematically compiling and analyzing 146 relevant studies up to 2024. It assesses current progress and limitations and offers guidance for future research. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse challenges encountered by machine learning models in landslide susceptibility assessment, encompassing aspects such as model selection, the formulation of evaluation index systems, model interpretability, and spatial heterogeneity. The construction of an evaluation index system, which serves as the foundational data for the model, profoundly influences its accuracy. This study extensively investigates the selection of evaluation factors and the identification of positive and negative samples, proposing valuable methodologies. Furthermore, this paper briefly deliberates and compares classical machine learning models, offering valuable insights for model selection. Additionally, it delves into discussions concerning model interpretability and spatial heterogeneity issues. These research findings promise to enhance the precision of landslide susceptibility assessments and furnish effective strategies for risk management.
Effect of Water Content on Light Nonaqueous Phase Fluid Migration in Sandy Soil
Authors: Zhao Guizhang , Cheng Jiale , Li Leicheng , Zhang Hongli , Li Hongliang , Zhang Hepeng
Published: October 2024

Contamination from light nonaqueous phase fluids (LNAPLs) and their derivatives during mining, production, and transportation has become a concern. Scholars have extensively studied LNAPL contamination, but the role of water content variation on its migration process in the unsaturated zone has not been sufficiently researched. The specific issue addressed in this study is the impact of water content on the migration of light nonaqueous phase liquids (LNAPLs) in sandy soils, a critical yet under-researched aspect of subsurface contamination. To tackle this, we employed indoor simulated vertical, one-dimensional, multiphase flow soil column experiments, utilizing the orthogonal experimental method to systematically evaluate the effects of varying water contents on the occurrence state and migration rate of LNAPLs. The experimental results indicate the following: (1) The migration rate of LNAPL exhibits an L-shaped trend during subsurface imbibition and a nonlinear relationship with migration time. The migration rate and migration time of surface infiltration have a linear growth relationship. (2) The residual rate of LNAPL is negatively correlated with water content and positively correlated with oil content in the homogeneous non-saturated state. With the increase in the amount of leaked oil, 40% of the leaked LNAPL is sorbed within the soil. (3) When the water content of the test medium is below 14%, and the oil content is below 11%, LNAPL appears in the unsaturated zone in a solid phase. As the water content increases, the adsorption rate of the oil phase gradually decreases and eventually reaches the oil saturation point. (4) When the water content of the medium exceeds 8%, over time, LNAPL will be subject to oil–water interfacial tension, and the rate of LNAPL movement first decreases and then increases, displaying nonlinear growth. The innovation of this work lies in the comprehensive analysis of LNAPL migration under controlled laboratory conditions, providing results that enhance the understanding of LNAPL behavior in sandy soils. These quantitative insights are crucial for developing targeted remediation strategies for LNAPL-induced pollution in the unsaturated zone.
Data Augmentation Method Using Room Transfer Function for Monitoring of Domestic Activities
Authors: Kim Minhan , Lee Seokjin
Published: October 2024

Monitoring domestic activities helps us to understand user behaviors in indoor environments, which has garnered interest as it aids in understanding human activities in context-aware computing. In the field of acoustics, this goal has been achieved through studies employing machine learning techniques, which are widely used for classification tasks involving sound recognition and other objectives. Machine learning typically achieves better performance with large amounts of high-quality training data. Given the high cost of data collection, development datasets often suffer from imbalanced data or lack high-quality samples, leading to performance degradations in machine learning models. The present study aims to address this data issue through data augmentation techniques. Specifically, since the proposed method targets indoor activities in domestic activity detection, room transfer functions were used for data augmentation. The results show that the proposed method achieves a 0.59% improvement in the F1-Score (micro) from that of the baseline system for the development dataset. Additionally, test data including microphones that were not used during training achieved an F1-Score improvement of 0.78% over that of the baseline system. This demonstrates the enhanced model generalization performance of the proposed method on samples having different room transfer functions to those of the trained dataset.
Beam Local Stress Prediction Model for Incremental Launching Construction Based on SSA-SVR Algorithm
Authors: Ji Jinke , Yang Runsheng , Guo Hao , Li Qingfu
Published: October 2024

In the multi-point incremental launching construction process, without setting temporary piers at the mid-span, it is difficult to ensure the synchronization of the launching equipment at the same pier, which can easily cause the beam to deviate from the design axis, leading to changes in the stress of the beam. Calculating the local maximum stress of the beam when lateral deviation occurs is beneficial for establishing a reasonable and reliable threshold for controlling beam deviations. To address this issue, this paper utilizes a finite element model of the bridge under typical adverse conditions, simulating the lateral deviation and asynchronous jacking of the beam to explore stress variation patterns. The results show that the beam stress increases as the lateral deviation and jacking differences increase, severely affecting the structural safety. To overcome the inefficiency of the finite element modeling method when dealing with multiple working conditions and to establish a reasonable deviation control threshold, this study proposes a beam local stress prediction model under the combined influence of lateral deviation and jacking height differences based on the SSA-SVR algorithm. The model calculates the local maximum stress of the beam for 2500 sets of parameters. An engineering case analysis shows that the prediction model has high calculation accuracy, reliable results, fast computational speed, and high efficiency. Based on the stress prediction results, it is recommended to set the jacking height difference control threshold at 20 mm. When the jacking height difference is less than 20 mm, the local maximum stress value under the combined influence of both parameters should be less than the standard limit. The corresponding lateral deviation control threshold can be dynamically adjusted according to the actual travel difference recorded by the jacking equipment, with the control precision improved to 1 mm.
Method and Application of Spillway Radial Gate Vibration Signal Denoising on Multiverse Optimization Algorithm-Optimized Variational Mode Decomposition Combined with Wavelet Threshold Denoising
Authors: Lu Xiudi , Liu Yakun , Tan Shoulin , Zhang Di , Wang Chen , Zheng Xueyu
Published: October 2024

To address the noise issue in the measured vibration signals of spillway radial gate discharge, this paper utilizes the Multiverse Optimization Algorithm (MVO) to optimize the number of decomposition modes (K) and the penalty factor (α) in Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD). This approach ensures improved efficiency of VMD decomposition while maintaining accuracy. Subsequently, the obtained Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs) from VMD decomposition are classified based on Multi-scale Permutation Entropy (MPE). IMFs are divided into pure components and noisy components; the noisy components are processed with Wavelet Threshold Denoising (WTD), while the pure components are overlaid and reconstructed to obtain the denoised vibration signal of the gate. Comprehensive comparisons involving artificial signal simulations, gate flow-induced vibration model tests, and numerical simulations lead to the following conclusions: compared to other algorithms, the proposed combined denoising method (MVO-VMD-MPE-WTD) achieves the highest signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in both the frequency and time domains for artificial signals, while yielding the lowest mean square error (MSE). In the gate flow-induced vibration model tests, the method significantly reduces noise in the vibration signals and effectively preserves characteristic information. The error in preserving characteristic information across model tests and numerical simulations is kept below 1%. Furthermore, compared to other optimization algorithms, the MVO demonstrates higher computational efficiency. The parameter-optimized combined denoising method proposed in this study provides insights into denoising measured vibration signals of hydraulic spillway radial gates and other drainage structures, and it opens possibilities for exploring more efficient optimization algorithms for achieving online monitoring in the future.
Ontology Development for Asset Concealment Investigation: A Methodological Approach and Case Study in Asset Recovery
Authors: Sousa Torres José Alberto , da Silva Daniel Alves , Albuquerque Robson de Oliveira , Nze Georges Daniel Amvame , Sandoval Orozco Ana Lucila , García Villalba Luis Javier
Published: October 2024

The concealment of assets is a critical challenge in financial fraud and asset recovery investigations, posing significant obstacles for creditors and regulatory authorities. National governments commonly possess the necessary data for detecting and combating this type of fraud, typically related to personal data and asset ownership. However, this information is often dispersed across different departments within the same government and sometimes in databases shared by other countries. This leads to difficulty semantically integrating this large amount of data in various formats and correlating entities through identifying hidden relationships, which are essential in this type of analysis. In this regard, this work proposes an ontology to support the data integration process in the domain of asset concealment and recovery and fill the gap in the existence of a public ontology for this domain. The applicability of this ontology in the context of integration between data from different departments and countries was validated. The use of the ontology in a pilot project in the context of a tool for investigating this type of fraud was conducted with a Brazilian government agency, and the users validated its applicability. Finally, a new method for constructing ontologies is proposed. The proposed process was evaluated during the asset concealment ontology building and proved to be more suitable than the similar processes analyzed concerning the partial reuse of existing ontologies and the construction of ontologies for data with a transnational scope.
Molecular Docking Assessment of Limonoids from Cameroonian Entandrophragma Species as Potential Inhibitors of Anopheles gambiae Acetylcholinesterase (AChE)
Authors: Happi Gervais Mouthé , Haider Sajjad , Ahmed Sikiru Akinyeye , Ul-Haq Zaheer
Published: October 2024

Malaria remains one of the great killers in tropical regions of the world due to the transmission of the Plasmodium parasite by the bites of the female mosquito Anopheles. The resistance of this species to synthetic insecticides contributes to an increase in the incidence of malaria and therefore necessitates the development of new potent and eco-friendly insecticides. In this study, twelve previously reported limonoids from four Entandrophragma species collected in Cameroon have been computationally evaluated for their Anopheles gambiae AChE inhibitory activity. The docking procedure was carried out through Molecular Operating Environment 2019.01 (MOE), while the UCSF Chimera program was used to model the docking results based on interactions between proteins and ligands, and molecular dynamics trajectories were analyzed using the GROMACS 2021.1 tool. Entandrophragmin and encandollens B and C with docking scores ranging from −6.45 to −7.28 kcal/mol were the most promising hits compared to the reference azadirachtin (−6.22 kcal/mol) and were further evaluated for their mechanism of action. Subsequent evaluation classified encandollen C as the best candidate for the development of new potent eco-friendly insecticides based on its lower average RMSD and RMSF and its compactness over a 150 ns duration with acetylcholinesterase.
Molecular Typing of Somatic Coliphage Groups and Their Occurrence and Survival in Sewage
Authors: Lee Heesuk , Chemla Jeremy , Randall Thomas A. , Bailey Emily S. , Sobsey Mark D.
Published: October 2024

A conventional, group-specific PCR method was developed to identify each of the four previously defined major taxa (Myoviridae, Siphoviridae, Podoviridae and Microviridae) of somatic coliphages and used to classify isolates from sewage. Somatic coliphage infectivity detection, occurrence and survival in primary human sewage effluent was observed over time to further understand the presence and behavior of the groups of somatic coliphages at two environmental temperatures (4 and 25 °C). Over time, the taxonomic composition of the somatic coliphage population in sewage changed, with the Microviridae family becoming the most prevalent family in the sewage population after several weeks. Based on their persistence and prevalence in environmental waters, phages belonging to the Microviridae family provide supporting information on sewage contamination and possibly of human enteric viruses in sewage-contaminated water.
Resistome Mapping in Foodborne Pathogens: Understanding Role in the Transmission Dynamics of Resistance Genes
Authors: Yaqub Muneer Oladipupo , Joseph Chinedu Eucharia , Jain Aashika , Edison Lekshmi K.
Published: October 2024

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in pathogens transmitted through food poses a significant threat to global public health, complicating infection treatment and increasing mortality rates. This review explores the role of resistome mapping as a crucial tool for understanding the transmission dynamics of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobacter spp., as well as various techniques for resistome mapping, such as metagenomic sequencing, PCR-based methods, and whole-genome sequencing (WGS), highlighting the significance of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) as a key mechanism for ARG dissemination in foodborne pathogens. Additionally, we investigated the influence of agricultural practices and environmental factors on AMR development, highlighting the critical need for improved surveillance, antibiotic stewardship, and global collaboration to mitigate the spread of resistant ARGs through the food chain. The perceptions gained from resistome mapping play an essential role in developing effective approaches to address AMR and to ensure food safety.
Lebanese Cedar, Skeuomorphs, Coffins, and Status in Ancient Egypt
Authors: Arbuckle MacLeod Caroline
Published: October 2024

In ancient Egypt, as with many cultures, funerary objects often communicated aspects of access, power, and social status. Lebanese cedar, for instance, was selected as a particularly desirable material from which to craft the coffins of Egypt’s upper echelons. This imported timber was both structurally superior to local woods and had important social and religious significance. For the slightly lower-ranking elite of Egypt, for whom cedar was inaccessible, local wood skeuomorphs that imitated cedar coffins were created in their place. The skeuomorphs enabled these individuals to demonstrate their knowledge of elite styles and tastes, and, due to the power of the image in ancient Egypt, also allowed for them to borrow the religious power of cedar wood to protect and enhance their own coffins. In this paper, a selection of Old to Middle Kingdom coffins are discussed to demonstrate the ways that cedar was emphasized as a construction material by the upper elite and mimicked by the middle and lower elite. This helps to demonstrate both the value of cedar in ancient Egypt, as well as the means by which imagery could be manipulated to gain access to the power of this potent material.