bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multidimensional comparative study of help-seeking messages on Weibo under different stages of COVID-19 pandemic in China
Authors: Jiang Jianhong , Yao Chenyan , Song Xinyi
Published: February 2024

Objective

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people posted help-seeking messages on Weibo, a mainstream social media in China, to solve practical problems. As viruses, policies, and perceptions have all changed, help-seeking behavior on Weibo has been shown to evolve in this paper.

Methods

We compare and analyze the help-seeking messages from three dimensions: content categories, time distribution, and retweeting influencing factors. First, we crawled the help-seeking messages from Weibo, and successively used CNN and xlm-roberta-large models for text classification to analyze the changes of help-seeking messages in different stages from the content categories dimension. Subsequently, we studied the time distribution of help-seeking messages and calculated the time lag using TLCC algorithm. Finally, we analyze the changes of the retweeting influencing factors of help-seeking messages in different stages by negative binomial regression.

Results

(1) Help-seekers in different periods have different emphasis on content. (2) There is a significant correlation between new daily help-seeking messages and new confirmed cases in the middle stage (1/1/2022–5/20/2022), with a 16-day time lag, but there is no correlation in the latter stage (12/10/2022–2/25/2023). (3) In all the periods, pictures or videos, and the length of the text have a significant positive effect on the number of retweets of help-seeking messages, but other factors do not have exactly the same effect on the retweeting volume.

Conclusion

This paper demonstrates the evolution of help-seeking messages during different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in three dimensions: content categories, time distribution, and retweeting influencing factors, which are worthy of reference for decision-makers and help-seekers, as well as provide thinking for subsequent studies.
Mobile applications in adolescent psychotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review
Authors: Wüllner Sarah , Hermenau Katharin , Krutkova Mariya , Petras Ira-Katharina , Hecker Tobias , Siniatchkin Michael
Published: February 2024

Background

To bridge the gap in adolescent psychotherapy created by the increasing need for mental health interventions and the limited possibilities of in-person treatment during the pandemic, many health care providers opted to offer online mental health care programs. As a result, the number of mental health apps available in app stores experienced a sharp increase during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

The aim of the current review is to provide an overview of feasibility and effectiveness studies testing mobile applications in adolescent psychotherapy during the peak phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a literature search in Pubmed, PsychInfo, Google Scholar, OpenSIGLE and OpenGREY for papers published from June 2020 to June 2023. Studies were included if they evaluated app-based interventions intended for psychotherapeutic treatment and targeted adolescents between 12 and 27 years of age with symptoms of psychological disorders. The quality of each study was assessed using the Systematic Assessment of Quality in Observational Research (SAQOR). Effectiveness outcomes were analyzed by vote counting and calculating a binomial probability test.

Results

The search yielded 31 relevant studies that examined 27 different apps with a total of 1,578 adolescent participants. Nine articles were primary effectiveness studies and 22 focused on feasibility measures as primary outcome. There was evidence that mental health apps influenced adolescents' psychotherapy, with 83% of the studies with effectiveness outcomes favoring the intervention (p = 0.002). Sixty-one percent of the included studies were rated at low or very low quality.

Conclusions

The pandemic has given apps a firm and important role in healthcare that will probably continue to expand in the future. To ensure that mental health apps are truly effective and beneficial for adolescents' psychotherapy, we need a standardized measurement of quality features of mental health apps and higher quality app evaluation studies.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=406455, PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews [CRD42023406455].
Children-related factors associated with life satisfaction of urban older adults living alone in China
Authors: Zhou Rong , Cui Jinghang , Yin Xingxing
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study is to investigate the association between the number of children, their gender structure, and the gender of children by birth order with the life satisfaction of urban older adults living alone (UOALA) in five Chinese cities. Traditional reproductive views suggest that having more children, especially sons, is associated with higher life satisfaction for older adults.

Methods

This study utilized a cross-sectional design and included a sample of 2,801 UOALA from five Chinese cities. The life satisfaction of participants was measured using standardized questionnaires. To analyze the data, both OLS and OLogit methods were employed.

Results

Empirical research shows that the number of children has a positive association with life satisfaction of UOALA, which is greater in male older adults than in female ones. The increase in the number of daughters is significantly associated with higher life satisfaction. In terms of gender structure, UOALA with multiple children, including both sons and daughters, tend to have a higher level of life satisfaction, which partly validates the cohort reproductive preference. In terms of gender of children by birth order, UOALA whose first child is a daughter have higher life satisfaction, which is more pronounced among male UOALA, while the association of gender of children by birth order on female UOALA is relatively weak.

Discussion

This study contributes to the understanding of the factors associated with the life satisfaction of UOALA in China. The findings suggest that having more children, particularly daughters, and a balanced gender structure of children is associated with higher levels of life satisfaction. The study suggests the need for targeted social support for UOALA with varying family structures.
Strategic Foresight analysis of droughts in southern Africa and implications for food security
Authors: Gbegbelegbe Sika , Chikoye David , Alene Arega , Kyei-Boahen Stephen , Chigeza Godfree
Published: February 2024

Southern Africa has been experiencing long-term changes in its climate and future projections imply that droughts should last longer and become more intense in southern Africa. Already, the region has been experiencing an increase in consecutive drought years. This study contributes to the literature by using bio-economic modeling to simulate the impact of future droughts on food security in southern Africa and identify plausible pathways for enhancing regional food security under drought. Food production and food security in southern Africa were projected under drought using an adjusted version of a multi-market and multi-commodity global model, the International Model for the Policy Analysis of Agricultural Commodities and Trade (IMPACT), version 3.2. The results suggest that with moderate economic growth and no drought, southern Africa would not become wealthy enough to mitigate food insecurity by 2040. In this context, recurrent droughts would worsen food security by severely affecting the production of maize, the key staple food in the region. With consecutive two-year regional droughts, like what was experienced in 2014/15 and 2015/16, most countries would experience an increase of at least 10% in the number of people at risk of hunger within a single year. Key measures which could help enhance food security under droughts include (1) breeding for stress-resilient maize (resistance to both heat and drought stresses); (2) promote crop and diet diversification, especially in countries highly dependent on maize as a staple food crop; and (3) invest in rainwater harvesting.
Bundling subsurface drip irrigation with no-till provides a window to integrate mung bean with intensive cereal systems for improving resource use efficiency
Authors: Kakraliya Manish , Jat Hanuman S. , Kumar Suresh , Kakraliya Suresh Kumar , Gora Manoj Kumar , Poonia Tanuja , Kumar Satyendra , Choudhary Madhu , Gathala Mahesh Kumar , Sharma Parbodh Chander , Jat M. L.
Published: February 2024

The future of South Asia’s major production system (rice–wheat rotation) is at stake due to continuously aggravating pressure on groundwater aquifers and other natural resources which will further intensify with climate change. Traditional practices, conventional tillage (CT) residue burning, and indiscriminate use of groundwater with flood irrigation are the major drivers of the non-sustainability of rice–wheat (RW) system in northwest (NW) India. For designing sustainable practices in intensive cereal systems, we conducted a study on bundled practices (zero tillage, residue mulch, precise irrigation, and mung bean integration) based on multi-indicator (system productivity, profitability, and efficiency of water, nitrogen, and energy) analysis in RW system. The study showed that bundling conservation agriculture (CA) practices with subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) saved ~70 and 45% (3-year mean) of irrigation water in rice and wheat, respectively, compared to farmers’ practice/CT practice (pooled data of Sc1 and Sc2; 1,035 and 318 mm ha−1). On a 3-year system basis, CA with SDI scenarios (mean of Sc5–Sc8) saved 35.4% irrigation water under RW systems compared to their respective CA with flood irrigation (FI) scenarios (mean of Sc3 and Sc4) during the investigation irrespective of residue management. CA with FI system increased the water productivity (WPi) and its use efficiency (WUE) by ~52 and 12.3% (3-year mean), whereas SDI improved by 221.2 and 39.2% compared to farmers practice (Sc1; 0.69 kg grain m−3 and 21.39 kg grain ha−1 cm−1), respectively. Based on the 3-year mean, CA with SDI (mean of Sc5–Sc8) recorded −2.5% rice yield, whereas wheat yield was +25% compared to farmers practice (Sc1; 5.44 and 3.79 Mg ha−1) and rice and wheat yield under CA with flood irrigation were increased by +7 and + 11%, compared to their respective CT practices. Mung bean integration in Sc7 and Sc8 contributed to ~26% in crop productivity and profitability compared to farmers’ practice (Sc1) as SDI facilitated advancing the sowing time by 1 week. On a system basis, CA with SDI improved energy use efficiency (EUE) by ~70% and partial factor productivity of N by 18.4% compared to CT practices. In the RW system of NW India, CA with SDI for precise water and N management proved to be a profitable solution to address the problems of groundwater, residue burning, sustainable intensification, and input (water and energy) use with the potential for replication in large areas in NW India.
Detection of non-tuberculous mycobacteria in native wildlife species at conservation risk of Argentina
Authors: Barandiaran Soledad , Ponce Loreana , Piras Indiana , Rosas Ana Carolina , Peña Martinez Jorge , Marfil María Jimena
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) are mainly environmental but can cause opportunistic infections and diseases in humans and animals. Livestock and wild animals can be infected with NTM. In Argentina, there are native wild species facing conservation risks, and they are the focus of protection and reintroduction projects designed to preserve biodiversity in various ecoregions. The aim of this study was to report the presence of NTM in samples collected from four endangered native wild species from nine Argentine provinces, as part of their pre-release health assessment.

Methods

A total of 165 samples from giant anteater, peccary, tapir and pampas deer were obtained, these included either bronchoalveolar or endotracheal lavages, or oropharyngeal, nasopharyngeal or tracheal swabs. Bacteriological culture followed by molecular identification and sequencing were performed.

Results

A total of 27 NTM were detected, including Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis, M. intracellulare, M. terrae, M. gordonense, M. kumamotonense, M. fortuitum, M. saskatchewanense, and M. genavense. Results revealed a 16,36% NTM recovery rate, with the giant anteater showing the highest prevalence among the mammals under study.

Discussion

In Argentina, due to extensive production systems, the interaction between domestic and wild species sharing the same environment is frequent, increasing the exposure of all the species to these NTM. In this way, the transmission of infectious agents from one to another is feasible. Moreover, NTMs might interfere with the diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis and paratuberculosis. These findings emphasize the importance of active health surveillance in conservation programs. It highlights the need to address NTM epidemiology in wildlife and its impact on conservation and public health.
The Burden of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Among Adolescents and Young Adults in 24 Western European Countries, 1990–2019: Results From the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Armocida Benedetta , Monasta Lorenzo , Sawyer Susan M. , Bustreo Flavia , Onder Graziano , Castelpietra Giulio , Pricci Flavia , Minardi Valentina , Giacomozzi Claudia , Abbafati Cristiana , Stafford Lauryn K. , Pasovic Maja , Hay Simon I. , Ong Kanyin Lian , Perel Pablo , Beran David ,   GBD 2019 Europe Adolescent Diabetes
Published: February 2024

Objectives: As little is known about the burden of type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in adolescents in Western Europe (WE), we aimed to explore their epidemiology among 10–24 year-olds.

Methods: Estimates were retrieved from the Global Burden of Diseases Study (GBD) 2019. We reported counts, rates per 100,000 population, and percentage changes from 1990 to 2019 for prevalence, incidence and years lived with disability (YLDs) of T1DM and T2DM, and the burden of T2DM in YLDs attributable to high body mass index (HBMI), for 24 WE countries.

Results: In 2019, prevalence and disability estimates were higher for T1DM than T2DM among 10–24 years old adolescents in WE. However, T2DM showed a greater increase in prevalence and disability than T1DM in the 30 years observation period in all WE countries. Prevalence increased with age, while only minor differences were observed between sexes.

Conclusion: Our findings highlight the substantial burden posed by DM in WE among adolescents. Health system responses are needed for transition services, data collection systems, education, and obesity prevention.
Prediction of Surface Topography in Robotic Ball-End Milling Considering Tool Vibration
Authors: Liu Jinyu , Niu Yuqin , Zhao Yiyang , Zhang Lin , Zhao Yanzheng
Published: February 2024

Because of their low cost, large workspace, and high flexibility, industrial robots have recently received significant attention in large-scale part machining. However, due to the stiffness limitations in robot joints and links, industrial robots are prone to vibration during milling processes, which leads to poor surface topography. In robotic milling processes, it remains challenging to simulate the surface topography accurately. This paper presents a mathematical model of surface topography combined with the effects of process parameters and tool vibrations in robotic milling. In this method, the kinematic trajectory of the cutting edge is first calculated by considering the cutter geometry, tool eccentricity, tool orientation, and redundancy angle. After that, the posture-dependent dynamic characteristics of the robotic milling system are predicted using an inverse distance-weighted approach. Then, a dynamic model of the robotic milling system is constructed for calculating tool vibration displacements. Finally, the kinematic model of cutting edges is modified using Z-map to incorporate the obtained vibration displacements into the sweep surfaces. In addition, milling experiments are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, showing a good agreement between predicted and measured surface roughness. Furthermore, the findings offer valuable insights into the impact of process parameters and robot posture on surface quality.
A Combined Fractional Order Repetitive Controller and Dynamic Gain Regulator for Speed Ripple Suppression in PMSM Drives
Authors: Guo Haohao , Zhang Fengkui , Zhang Qiaofen , Liu Yancheng , Xiang Tianxiang , Xing Jintong
Published: February 2024

Repetitive control (RC) has been widely used in many fields due to its excellent ability to suppress periodic disturbances. However, when the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) operates at variable speeds, the speed loop sampling frequency is usually not equal to an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency of speed ripple, which prevents disturbances from being completely suppressed. In addition, the open-loop gain of the motor control system with RC is too large at certain frequencies, resulting in excessive speed overshoot during startup and loading. To solve these two problems, this paper proposes a fractional order repetitive control (FORC) strategy with dynamically adjustable gain. A fractional order delay link is introduced to make up for the shortcomings of the conventional repetitive controller (CRC) in its ability to suppress periodic speed ripples when the sampling frequency is not an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency of the motor. Then, to weaken the speed overshoot caused by RC, a nonlinear function fal(e,α,δ) is added in the front of the FORC to dynamically adjust the FORC gain. Simulation and experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Autonomous and Earth-Independent Orbit Determination for a Lunar Navigation Satellite System
Authors: Critchley-Marrows Joshua J. R. , Wu Xiaofeng , Kawabata Yosuke , Nakasuka Shinichi
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the number of expected missions to the Moon has increased significantly. With limited terrestrial-based infrastructure to support this number of missions, as well as restricted visibility over intended mission areas, there is a need for space navigation system autonomy. Autonomous on-board navigation systems in the lunar environment have been the subject of study by a number of authors. Suggested systems include optical navigation, high-sensitivity Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, and navigation-linked formation flying. This paper studies the interoperable nature and fusion of proposed autonomous navigation systems that are independent of Earth infrastructure, given challenges in distance and visibility. This capability is critically important for safe and resilient mission architectures. The proposed elliptical frozen orbits of lunar navigation satellite systems will be of special interest, investigating the derivation of orbit determination by non-terrestrial sources utilizing celestial observations and inter-satellite links. Potential orbit determination performances around 100 m are demonstrated, highlighting the potential of the approach for future lunar navigation infrastructure.
Chitosan Regulates the Root Architecture System, Photosynthetic Characteristics and Antioxidant System Contributing to Salt Tolerance in Maize Seedling
Authors: Jiao Qiujuan , Shen Fengmin , Fan Lina , Song Zihao , Zhang Jingjing , Song Jia , Fahad Shah , Liu Fang , Zhao Ying , Tian Zhiqiang , Liu Haitao
Published: February 2024

Salinity is an obstacle to global agriculture, as it affects plant growth and development. Chitosan (CTS) has been suggested as a plant growth regulator to alleviate environmental stresses. In this study, the morphological and biochemical responses of chitosan application (75 mg L−1) on maize seedling growth under salt stress (150 mM) were conducted with a hydroponic experiment. The results exhibited that CTS application effectively recovered salt-inhibited biomass accumulation and root architecture by increasing chlorophyll content and photosynthetic assimilation and reducing sodium content in shoots and roots by 25.42% and 5.12% compared with NaCl treatment. Moreover, salt-induced oxidative stress was alleviated by CTS application by increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes of superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, peroxidase and content of ascorbate. Correlation analysis and partial least squares (PLS) analysis revealed that root morphology and ascorbate play key roles for maize seedlings in response to salt stress. Based on these results, CTS application is recommended as an effective approach to enhance the tolerance of maize seedlings under salt stress.
Enhancing Control of Leishmania infantum Infection: A Multi-Epitope Nanovaccine for Durable T-Cell Immunity
Authors: Hurtado-Morillas Clara , Martínez-Rodrigo Abel , Orden José A. , de Urbina-Fuentes Laura , Mas Alicia , Domínguez-Bernal Gustavo
Published: February 2024

Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a growing health problem for which vaccination is a crucial tool for the control of disease. The successful development of an effective vaccine against this disease relies on eliciting a robust and enduring T-cell immune response involving the activation of CD4+ Th1 and CD8+ T-cells. This study aimed to evaluate the immunogenicity and prophylactic efficacy of a novel nanovaccine comprising a multi-epitope peptide, known as HisDTC, encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles against Leishmania infantum infection in the murine model. The encapsulation strategy was designed to enhance antigen loading and sustain release, ensuring prolonged exposure to the immune system. Our results showed that mice immunized with PLGA-encapsulated HisDTC exhibited a significant reduction in the parasite load in the liver and spleen over both short and long-term duration. This reduction was associated with a cellular immune profile marked by elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IFN-γ, and the generation of memory T cells. In conclusion, the current study establishes that PLGA-encapsulated HisDTC can promote effective and long-lasting T-cell responses against L. infantum in the murine model. These findings underscore the potential utility of multi-epitope vaccines, in conjunction with appropriate delivery systems, as an alternative strategy for CanL control.
Convolutional Neural Networks in the Inspection of Serrasalmids (Characiformes) Fingerlings
Authors: Fernandes Marília Parreira , Costa Adriano Carvalho , França Heyde Francielle do Carmo , Souza Alene Santos , Viadanna Pedro Henrique de Oliveira , Lima Lessandro do Carmo , Horn Liege Dauny , Pierozan Matheus Barp , Rezende Isabel Rodrigues de , Medeiros Rafaella Machado dos S. de , Braganholo Bruno Moraes , Silva Lucas Oliveira Pereira da , Nacife Jean Marc , Pinho Costa Kátia Aparecida de , Silva Marco Antônio Pereira da , Oliveira Rodrigo Fortunato de
Published: February 2024

Aquaculture produces more than 122 million tons of fish globally. Among the several economically important species are the Serrasalmidae, which are valued for their nutritional and sensory characteristics. To meet the growing demand, there is a need for automation and accuracy of processes, at a lower cost. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are a viable alternative for automation, reducing human intervention, work time, errors, and production costs. Therefore, the objective of this work is to evaluate the efficacy of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in counting round fish fingerlings (Serrasalmidae) at different densities using 390 color photographs in an illuminated environment. The photographs were submitted to two convolutional neural networks for object detection: one model was adapted from a pre-trained CNN and the other was an online platform based on AutoML. The metrics used for performance evaluation were precision (P), recall (R), accuracy (A), and F1-Score. In conclusion, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are effective tools for detecting and counting fish. The pre-trained CNN demonstrated outstanding performance in identifying fish fingerlings, achieving accuracy, precision, and recall rates of 99% or higher, regardless of fish density. On the other hand, the AutoML exhibited reduced accuracy and recall rates as the number of fish increased.
Effects of Zilpaterol Hydrochloride Supplementation on Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Meat Quality for Steers Differing in Breed Type
Authors: Fulton Jesse O. , Block Janna J. , Underwood Keith R. , Zuelly Stacy M. S. , Olson Kenneth C. , Blair Amanda D.
Published: February 2024

To determine the effects of zilpaterol hydrochloride (ZH) on growth performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality for steers differing in breed type, steers with British (B; n = 76) or British × Continental (BC; n = 57) backgrounds were allocated to a randomized incomplete block design with a 2 × 2 treatment structure. Pens within each block × breed type were randomly assigned to either ZH (8.3 mg/kg of DM; fed for 20 d before slaughter, followed by a 3-day withdrawal) or control (CON; 0 mg/kg ZH). Steers were subjected to ultrasound immediately before ZH inclusion and following withdrawal to determine the influence of ZH on changes in longissimus muscle area (LMA), fat thickness and percent intramuscular fat (IMF). Carcass data were collected, and the longissimus lumborum was collected for analysis of tenderness, moisture percentage, crude fat content, collagen content, postmortem proteolysis and sensory attributes. The ZH × breed type interaction did not influence (p > 0.05) the feedlot performance, carcass or meat quality attribute traits evaluated, with the exception of moisture percentage. Responses among breed types were as expected for B vs. BC cattle types. Supplementation with ZH improved (p < 0.05) LMA and yield grade but increased Warner–Bratzler shear force.
Performance Evaluation of a Novel Combination of Four- and Five-Carbon [Butyric and Valeric] Short-Chain Fatty Acid Glyceride Esters in Broilers
Authors: Gracia Marta I. , Vazquez Patricia , Ibáñez-Pernía Yolanda , Pos Jeroen , Tawde Snehal
Published: February 2024

A novel combination of Butyric and Valeric acid glycerol esters with oregano oil in a dry powder form was evaluated for performance improvements in broilers. The dosing regimen (500 g/Ton feed in starter and grower; 250 g/Ton in finisher feed) was considered low compared to conventional practices using non-esterified Butyric and Valeric short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). Six trials were conducted at various trial facilities in Italy, United Kingdom, Spain, and Poland. Supplemented broilers weighed significantly more than the control birds at 28 days of age (+3.4%; 1459 g vs. 1412 g; p = 0.0006) and at 42 days of age (+2.5%; 2834 g vs. 2763 g; p = 0.0030). Supplementation significantly reduced mortality from 1.9% to 0.8% during the finisher phase (from 29 to 42 days of age); however, average mortality was 3.2% for the whole 42-day growth period and was not affected. Further, supplemented broilers grew more (66.4 vs. 64.5 g/day; p = 0.0005), ate more feed (104.7 vs. 103.1 g/day; p = 0.0473), converted feed significantly more efficiently (1.58 vs. 1.60; p = 0.0072), leading to better EPEF value (410 vs. 389; p = 0.0006) than the control broilers. Meta-analysed trial performance data for novel SCFA formulations such as these are not commonly available, and serve to facilitate efficacy determination from an end-user perspective. The use of short- and medium-chain fatty acid esters in optimal low-dose combinations to reliably augment gut health and performance appears promising in commercial broiler production, and may lead to further improvements in industry practices and reduced antibiotic use.
Feeding Value of Lupins, Field Peas, Faba Beans and Chickpeas for Poultry: An Overview
Authors: David Laura S. , Nalle Catootjie L. , Abdollahi M. Reza , Ravindran Velmurugu
Published: February 2024

Grain legumes are fair sources of protein, amino acids and energy, and can be used as a replacement for soybean meal in poultry feed formulations as the soybean meal becomes short in supply and costly. However, a concern associated with the use of grain legumes in poultry feeding is the presence of antinutritional factors. The effective processing and utilisation of these grain legumes in poultry feeding are well documented. The current review focuses on four selected grain legumes (lupins [Lupinus albus and Lupinus angustifolius], field peas [Phaseolus vulgaris], faba beans [Vicia faba] and chickpeas [Cicer arietinum]) and their nutrient content, the presence of antinutritional factors, processing methods and feeding value, including updated data based on recent research findings.
Antibacterial Activity and Cytotoxicity Screening of Acyldepsipeptide-1 Analogues Conjugated to Silver/Indium/Sulphide Quantum Dots
Authors: Cobongela Sinazo Z. Z. , Makatini Maya M. , May Bambesiwe , Njengele-Tetyana Zikhona , Bambo Mokae F. , Sibuyi Nicole R. S.
Published: February 2024

The continuous rise in bacterial infections and antibiotic resistance is the driving force behind the search for new antibacterial agents with novel modes of action. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have recently gained attention as promising antibiotic agents with the potential to treat drug-resistant infections. Several AMPs have shown a lower propensity towards developing resistance compared to conventional antibiotics. However, these peptides, especially acyldepsipeptides (ADEPs) present with unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties, such as high toxicity and low bioavailability. Different ways to improve these peptides to be drug-like molecules have been explored, and these include using biocompatible nano-carriers. ADEP1 analogues (SC005-8) conjugated to gelatin-capped Silver/Indium/Sulfide (AgInS2) quantum dots (QDs) improved the antibacterial activity against Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. The ADEP1 analogues exhibited minimum inhibition concentrations (MIC) between 63 and 500 µM, and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) values between 125 and 750 µM. The AgInS2-ADEP1 analogue conjugates showed enhanced antibacterial activity as evident from the MIC and MBC values, i.e., 1.6–25 µM and 6.3–100 µM, respectively. The AgInS2-ADEP1 analogue conjugates were non-toxic against HEK-293 cells at concentrations that showed antibacterial activity. The findings reported herein could be helpful in the development of antibacterial treatment strategies.
Emerging Issues and Initial Insights into Bacterial Biofilms: From Orthopedic Infection to Metabolomics
Authors: Mirzaei Rasoul , Campoccia Davide , Ravaioli Stefano , Arciola Carla Renata
Published: February 2024

Bacterial biofilms, enigmatic communities of microorganisms enclosed in an extracellular matrix, still represent an open challenge in many clinical contexts, including orthopedics, where biofilm-associated bone and joint infections remain the main cause of implant failure. This study explores the scenario of biofilm infections, with a focus on those related to orthopedic implants, highlighting recently emerged substantial aspects of the pathogenesis and their potential repercussions on the clinic, as well as the progress and gaps that still exist in the diagnostics and management of these infections. The classic mechanisms through which biofilms form and the more recently proposed new ones are depicted. The ways in which bacteria hide, become impenetrable to antibiotics, and evade the immune defenses, creating reservoirs of bacteria difficult to detect and reach, are delineated, such as bacterial dormancy within biofilms, entry into host cells, and penetration into bone canaliculi. New findings on biofilm formation with host components are presented. The article also delves into the emerging and critical concept of immunometabolism, a key function of immune cells that biofilm interferes with. The growing potential of biofilm metabolomics in the diagnosis and therapy of biofilm infections is highlighted, referring to the latest research.
Exogenous Calcium Alleviates Oxidative Stress Caused by Salt Stress in Peanut Seedling Roots by Regulating the Antioxidant Enzyme System and Flavonoid Biosynthesis
Authors: Gao Yan , Dong Xuan , Wang Rongjin , Hao Fei , Zhang Hui , Zhang Yongyong , Lin Guolin
Published: February 2024

Soil salinity is one of the adversity stresses plants face, and antioxidant defense mechanisms play an essential role in plant resistance. We investigated the effects of exogenous calcium on the antioxidant defense system in peanut seedling roots that are under salt stress by using indices including the transcriptome and absolute quantitative metabolome of flavonoids. Under salt stress conditions, the antioxidant defense capacity of enzymatic systems was weakened and the antioxidant capacity of the linked AsA-GSH cycle was effectively inhibited. In contrast, the ascorbate biosynthesis pathway and its upstream glycolysis metabolism pathway became active, which stimulated shikimate biosynthesis and the downstream phenylpropanoid metabolism pathway, resulting in an increased accumulation of flavonoids, which, as one of the antioxidants in the non-enzymatic system, provide hydroxyl radicals to scavenge the excess reactive oxygen species and maintain the plant’s vital activities. However, the addition of exogenous calcium caused changes in the antioxidant defense system in the peanut root system. The activity of antioxidant enzymes and the antioxidant capacity of the AsA-GSH cycle were enhanced. Therefore, glycolysis and phenylpropanoid metabolism do not exert antioxidant function, and flavonoids were no longer synthesized. In addition, antioxidant enzymes and the AsA-GSH cycle showed a trade-off relationship with sugars and flavonoids.
Influence of Demagnetization and Microstructure Non-Homogeneity on Barkhausen Noise in the High-Strength Low-Alloyed Steel 1100 MC
Authors: Pitoňák Martin , Ganev Nikolaj , Zgútová Katarína , Čapek Jiří , Neslušan Miroslav , Trojan Karel
Published: February 2024

This study deals with two different aspects of the high-strength low-alloyed 1100 MC steel. The first is associated with the remarkable heterogeneity (linked with surface decarburization) in the surface state produced during sheet rolling with respect to the sheet width. The variable thickness surface layer exhibits a microstructure different from that of the deeper bulk. Variation in the thickness of the thermally softened near-surface region strongly affects Barkhausen noise as well. This technique can be considered a reliable tool for monitoring the aforementioned heterogeneity. It can also be reported that the opposite sides of the sheet are different with respect to the surface state, the heterogeneity distribution, and the corresponding Barkhausen noise. These aspects indicate different conditions during hot rolling followed by rapid quenching on the upper and lower rollers. Furthermore, it was found that the degree of decarburizing and the corresponding surface heterogeneity is also a function of C content, and steels with lower C content exhibit less pronounced surface heterogeneity. The second aspect is related to the remarkable asymmetry in Barkhausen noise emission with respect to two consecutive bursts. This asymmetry is due to the presence of remnant magnetization in the sheet produced during manufacturing. The remnant magnetization is coupled to the magnetic field produced by the excitation coil of the Barkhausen noise sensor and strongly contributes to the aforementioned asymmetry. The remnant magnetization attenuates the domain wall mobility, which results in weaker Barkhausen noise. Moreover, the Barkhausen noise envelopes and the extracted features such as the position of the envelope maximum and its width are strongly affected by the remnant magnetization. Insufficient demagnetization makes the body magnetically softer and makes a wider range of magnetic fields in which Barkhausen noise emission can be detected. As soon as sufficient removal of this remnant magnetization is carried out in the vanishing magnetic field (demagnetization), the aforementioned remarkable asymmetry is fully lost.
Numerical and Experimental Characterization of a Coanda-Type Industrial Air Amplifier
Authors: Chávez-Módena Miguel , Martinez-Cava Alejandro , Marín-Coca Sergio , González Leo
Published: February 2024

The performance of an industrial air amplifier is assessed through experimental and numerical characterization, with a focus on examining the influence of various operating conditions (isolated, “blowing,” and “suction” modes) and direct geometric scaling of the device within the specified range of the injection gap (δ) and the inlet pressure characteristic values. The findings underscore the presence of a linear trend of the entrained mass flow and a nonlinear decay of the amplification factor, both with notable sensitivity to the gap width. Numerical RANS simulations validate the experimental data, characterize the asymmetric flow downstream from the device, and facilitate the exploration of more complex scenarios. In this regard, scaling the device’s dimensions reveals an optimal aspect ratio between the minimum diameter (Dm) and δ to maximize the entrained mass flow. This research provides valuable insights into the behavior of air amplifiers, offering guidance for their design and application across various industrial contexts.
Detecting Multiple Mixed Bacteria Using Dual-Mode Hyperspectral Imaging and Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Zhu He , Luo Jing , He Sailing
Published: February 2024

Identifying and analyzing mixed pathogenic bacteria is important for clinical diagnosis and antibiotic therapy of multiple bacterial infection. In this paper, a dual-mode hyperspectral microscopic detection technology with hybrid deep neural networks (DNNs) was proposed for simultaneous quantitative analysis of four kinds of pathogenic bacteria in mixed samples. To acquire both transmission and fluorescence spectra regarding the mixed pathogens, we developed a dual-mode hyperspectral detection system with fine spectral resolution and wide wavelength range, which can also generate spatial images that can be used to calculate the total amount of mixed bacteria. The dual-mode spectra were regarded as mixed proportion characteristics and the input of the neural network for predicting the proportion of each bacterium present in the mixture. To better analyze the dual-mode spectral data, we customized a mixed bacteria measurement network (MB-Net) with hybrid DNNs architectures based on spectral feature fusion. Using the fusion strategy, two DNNs frameworks applied for transmission/fluorescence spectral feature processing were stacked to form the MB-Net that processes these features simultaneously, and the achieved average coefficient of determination (R2) and RMSE of validation set are 0.96 and 0.03, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time of simultaneously detecting four types of mixed pathogenic bacteria using spectral detection technology, showing excellent potential in clinical practice.
Photoelectricity Theory-Based Concrete Crack Image Segmentation and Optimal Exposure Interval Research
Authors: Liu Haijing , Luo Renwei , Liu Yan , He Ji , Sang Yongzhi , Zheng Jiayan , Zhou Zhixiang
Published: February 2024

To solve the problem of low accuracy in automatic concrete crack image segmentation and the non-standardization of concrete crack image datasets, an exposure-based concrete crack image capture scene characterization method was proposed, and the optimal exposure interval for crack segmentation was presented by multiple scene image capture experiments. First, current public crack datasets were collected and analyzed, and it was shown that improper spatial resolution, mislabeling, overexposure, and defocus are frequent non-standardization problems in crack dataset production. Through the analysis of the photoelectric principle in concrete crack imaging, an equivalent exposure was set as a core indicator for scene characterization. Twenty-one indoor scenes were designed by varying the illumination intensity and exposure time, and the experimental results showed that an equivalent exposure can be a core control index for scene characterization. The grayscale distribution law of concrete crack images was analyzed with four specimens’ images captured indoors in 50 exposure scenes, and the segmentation accuracy of an image from each scene was calculated through comparison with corresponding manually labeled binary files. The experiment’s results revealed that 5~50 lx·s was the optimal equivalent exposure interval for concrete crack image segmentation, in which better segmentation accuracy was achieved with an F1 score of up to 96.3%.
A Quick Capture Evaluation System for the Automatic Assessment of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders for Sanitation Workers
Authors: Zhang Ruiqiu , Huang Minxin
Published: February 2024

Musculoskeletal disorders not only impact workers’ health but also result in significant economic losses to society. Sanitation workers often have to lift waste bags from containers, leading to shoulder joint flexion of 90° or more, exposing them to hazardous environments for extended periods. This study combines deep learning and image recognition to create a Quick Capture Evaluation System (QCES). By comparing body angles captured in the sanitation workers’ work environment with those from OptiTrack motion capture, the system showed an average Root Mean Square Error of 5.64 for 18 different postures, and an average Spearman’s rho of 0.87, indicating its precision. Compared with scores assessed by three experts, the system demonstrated an average Cohen’s kappa of 0.766, proving its reliability. Practical assessments of sanitation workers revealed that tilting the waste containers could significantly improve their posture and reduce the risk of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders. It proves that the QCES system can accurately and rapidly assess the on-site posture of a particular occupation.
Standard Block and Modular Dwelling Designs in Hong Kong’s Public Housing
Authors: Wang Lu , Cheng Jingru Cyan , Mazan Wojciech , Jacoby Sam
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the role of standard block and modular dwelling designs in Hong Kong’s public housing provision since the mid-1950s. It explores how standard types have evolved in relation to housing policies, demographic and socio-economic changes, and minimum space requirements. In contrast to other countries, Hong Kong lacks defined space or room standards. In the absence of space standards, Hong Kong relies on a living density standard. This paper studies the historical development of Hong Kong’s public housing in terms of dwelling size as a measure of housing quality, questioning the effectiveness of standard block and dwelling designs as housing design controls and highlighting the contextual nature of dwelling usability and size. The analysis is based on public housing design projects, policies, and data implemented or presented by the Hong Kong government, particularly the Hong Kong Housing Authority.
Deep Learning Method to Detect Missing Welds for Joist Assembly Line
Authors: Raoofi Hamed , Sabahnia Asa , Barbeau Daniel , Motamedi Ali
Published: February 2024

Traditional methods of supervision in the construction industry are time-consuming and costly, requiring significant investments in skilled labor. However, with advancements in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and deep learning, these methods can now be automated, resulting in time and cost savings, as well as improvements in product quality. This research focuses on the application of computer vision approaches to monitor the quality of welding in prefabricated steel elements. A high-performance network was designed, consisting of a video capturing station, a customized classifier based on a YOLOv4 detector and an IoU tracker, and a user interface software for any interaction with quality control workers. The network demonstrated over 98% accuracy in identifying steel connection types and detecting missed welds on the assembly line in real-time. Extensive validation was conducted using a large dataset from a real production environment. The proposed framework aims to reduce rework, minimize hazards, and enhance product quality. This research contributes to the automation of quality control processes in the construction industry.
Gridded Assessment of Mainland China’s Solar Energy Resources Using the Typical Meteorological Year Method and China Meteorological Forcing Dataset
Authors: Song Zongpeng , Wang Bo , Zheng Hui , Jin Shuanglong , Liu Xiaolin , Hua Shenbing
Published: February 2024

The National Standard of China has recommended the typical meteorological year (TMY) method for assessing solar energy resources. Compared with the widely adopted multi-year averaging (MYA) methods, the TMY method can consider the year-to-year variations of weather conditions and characterize solar radiation under climatological weather conditions. However, there are very few TMY-based solar energy assessments on the scale of China. On the national scale, the difference between the TMY and MYA methods, the requirement of the data record length, and the impacts of the selection of meteorological variables on the TMY-based assessment are still unclear. This study aims to fill these gaps by assessing mainland China’s solar energy resources using the TMY method and China Meteorological Forcing Dataset. The results show that the data record length could significantly influence annual total solar radiation estimation when the record length is shorter than 30 years. Whereas, the estimation becomes stable when the length is greater or equal to 30 years, suggesting a thirty-year data record is preferred. The difference between the MYA and TMY methods is exhibited primarily in places with modest or low abundance of solar radiation. The difference is nearly independent of the examined data record lengths, hinting at the role of regional-specific weather characteristics. The TMY and MYA methods differ more pronounced when assessing the seasonal stability grade. A total of 7.4% of the area of China experiences a downgrade from the TMY relative to the MYA methods, while a 3.15% area experiences an upgrade. The selection of the meteorological variables has a notable impact on the TMY-based assessment. Among the three meteorological variables examined, wind speed has the most considerable impact on both the annual total and seasonal stability, dew point has the second most significant impact, and air temperature has the least. The results are useful for guiding future research on solar energy assessment in China and could be helpful for solar energy development planning.