bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leveraging Wheat Competition to Manage Seasonal Expansion of Feathertop Rhodes Grass (Chloris virgata)
Authors: Hasanfard Alireza , Chauhan Bhagirath Singh
Published: August 2024

Utilizing the potential of crops to suppress weeds is an important strategy for sustainable management. Feathertop Rhodes grass (FTR) (Chloris virgata Sw.) is a problematic warm-season weed in Australia that has recently expanded into colder seasons. This study investigated the growth and seed production of FTR at two planting times (May and July) and three wheat planting densities (0, 82, and 164 plants m−2) using a neighborhood design over two years. In both years, the plant height, tiller production, and panicle production of FTR were lower in the presence of wheat compared to when wheat was absent. Surrounding FTR with wheat delayed its pinnacle emergence, varying from 1 to 6 days in the first year and 4 to 21 days in the second year, depending on the planting date and wheat density. During both years and planting times, wheat’s presence caused approximately a 99% decrease in the dry matter and seed production of FTR compared to wheat’s absence. Additionally, the wheat height, an important competitive factor, was higher at both densities in the May planting compared to the July planting. The emergence, establishment, and continuous production of FTR seeds throughout the year indicate that inadequate management could result in the further spread of this weed. Our findings suggest that adjusting the date and density of wheat planting could be a viable strategy for sustainably managing this weed during colder seasons.
Impact of Harvesting Time on Grain Yield, Physicochemical Attributes, and 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline Biosynthesis in Aromatic Rice
Authors: Chakraborty Rajesh , Roy Tuhin Suvra , Sakagami Jun-Ichi
Published: August 2024

Achieving a consistent grain yield while preserving persistent aroma remains a substantial challenge in aromatic rice production in Bangladesh. To address this challenge, a field experiment was conducted at the agronomy research area of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka-1207, between 15 June 2022, and 25 November 2022 (Aman season). This study aimed to evaluate the influence of harvesting time on aromatic rice performance. The experiment, following a randomized complete block design with three replications, involved two factors: factor 1 comprised various rice varieties [Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) dhan34, BRRI dhan70, BRRI dhan80, and Tulshimala], and factor 2 comprised three harvesting times [3, 4, and 5 weeks after flowering (WAF)]. Results revealed significant impacts of variety and/or harvesting time on grain yield, physicochemical characteristics, and aroma of aromatic rice. Notably, Tulshimala and BRRI dhan80 exhibited superior milling quality, biochemical properties, and aroma characteristics among the aromatic rice types. BRRI dhan70 and BRRI dhan80 displayed higher grain yield when harvested at 5 WAF. However, Tulshimala and BRRI dhan80 showed superiority in grain 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP) concentration when harvested 3 or 4 WAF. Earlier harvesting at 3 and 4 WAF resulted in higher percentages of grain 2-AP (60.22% and 53.96%, respectively) compared with later harvesting at 5 WAF (used as check). In conclusion, varying harvesting times markedly impact the yield, physiochemical characteristics, and aroma of aromatic rice varieties, with earlier harvesting beneficial for aroma retention in Tulshimala and BRRI Dhan80 and later harvesting for increased economic yield in BRRI dhan70 and BRRI dhan80.
Influence of Weather Conditions and the Aphid Population on the Potato Virus Y Infection of Tobacco in the Field
Authors: Przybyś Marcin , Doroszewska Teresa , Doroszewski Andrzej , Erlichowski Tomasz
Published: August 2024

Potato virus Y (PVY) is a major tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) pathogen that causes severe crop losses. We studied the influence of meteorological factors and a population of twelve aphid species on the development of PVY in field-grown tobacco from 1996 to 2010 in Poland. Three PVY-susceptible tobacco varieties were used in the study. The mean virus incidence ranged from 18% in 2010 to almost 99% in 1996, 2004, and 2009. For determining the relationship between tobacco plant infection and meteorological conditions and aphid populations, logistic regression analysis was used. It was found that the probability of PVY infection is significantly dependent on the average air temperature, relative humidity, number of days with an average temperature of at least 25 °C, and the abundance of Aphis fabae and Brachycaudus helichrysi. The probability of infection of tobacco plants with potato virus Y decreased with increasing air temperature and relative humidity. In addition, with each subsequent day with a temperature of at least 25 °C, the risk of infection decreased by 24%. Furthermore, it was often observed that high populations of Aphis fabae and Brachycaudus helichrysi were associated with a high incidence of virus infection in tobacco plants.
Metagenomics-Metabolomics Exploration of Three-Way-Crossbreeding Effects on Rumen to Provide Basis for Crossbreeding Improvement of Sheep Microbiome and Metabolome of Sheep
Authors: Wang Haibo , Zhan Jinshun , Jiang Haoyun , Jia Haobin , Pan Yue , Zhong Xiaojun , Huo Junhong , Zhao Shengguo
Published: August 2024

The objective of this experiment was to explore the effects of three-way hybridization on rumen microbes and metabolites in sheep using rumen metagenomics and metabolomics. Healthy Hu and CAH (Charolais × Australian White × Hu) male lambs of similar birth weight and age were selected for short-term fattening after intensive weaning to collect rumen fluid for sequencing. Rumen metagenomics diversity showed that Hu and CAH sheep were significantly segregated at the species, KEGG-enzyme, and CAZy-family levels. Moreover, the CAH significantly increased the ACE and Chao1 indices. Further, correlation analysis of the abundance of the top 80 revealed that the microorganisms were interrelated at the species, KEGG-enzyme, and CAZy-family levels. Overall, the microbiome significantly affected metabolites of the top five pathways, with the strongest correlation found with succinic acid. Meanwhile, species-level microbial markers significantly affected rumen differential metabolites. In addition, rumen microbial markers in Hu sheep were overall positively correlated with down-regulated metabolites and negatively correlated with up-regulated metabolites. In contrast, rumen microbial markers in CAH lambs were overall negatively correlated with down-regulated metabolites and positively correlated with up-regulated metabolites. These results suggest that three-way crossbreeding significantly affects rumen microbial community and metabolite composition, and that significant interactions exist between rumen microbes and metabolites.
Physiological Auricular and Cornual Asymmetries of the Sanmartinero Creole Bovine
Authors: Salamanca-Carreño Arcesio , Parés-Casanova Pere Miquel , Vélez-Terranova Mauricio , Martínez-Correal Germán
Published: August 2024

Asymmetric studies can indicate disturbances in the developmental process. Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) is considered an indicator of stress. The Sanmartinero (SM) creole bovine is native to the department of Meta (Colombian Orinoquia) and its adaptation process has allowed it to live in extreme tropical environments. The aim of this cross-sectional and descriptive study was to present the current state of the knowledge of asymmetries in some cephalic characters of the SM creole bovine. A total of 94 animals were studied (18 uncastrated males and 76 females) from three different farms, with an age range of 0.5–10 years. For each animal, two measurements of the ear (width and length) and two measurements of the horn (perimeter and length) were obtained in vivo. The degree of asymmetry was calculated as (R − L)/(R + L). Bilateral differences pointed towards a fluctuating asymmetry (e.g., a random variation in the trait that is expected to be perfectly symmetrical) biased towards right for ear width and horn perimeter, and towards left for ear and horn length. Since the development of these structures—ears and horns—is under the control of the same set of genes, the fluctuating asymmetry could constitute a reflection of a normal condition.
Stress Responses in Horses Housed in Different Stable Designs during Summer in a Tropical Savanna Climate
Authors: Poochipakorn Chanoknun , Wonghanchao Thita , Sanigavatee Kanokpan , Chanda Metha
Published: August 2024

Single-confinement housing can pose welfare risks to domestic horses. This study investigated horses’ stress responses when confined to single stalls in different stable designs in a tropical savanna region to address a gap in the literature. In total, 23 horses were assigned to a stable with a central corridor and solid external walls (A) (N = 8), a stable with one side corridor and solid external walls (B) (N = 6), or a stable with a central corridor and no solid external walls (C) (N = 9). Air velocity, relative humidity, air temperature, and noxious gases were measured inside the stables, and the heart rate and HRV of the horses were also determined. The relative humidity was lower in stable C than in stable A (p < 0.05), while the air temperature was higher in stable C than in stable B (p < 0.05) during the day. The airflow and ammonia levels were higher in stable C than in stables B and A (p < 0.01–0.0001). Overall, horses’ HRV in stable A was lower than in those in stables B and C (p < 0.05–0.01). Horses in stable A tended to experience more stress than those in other stables.
Immunonutrition—Contributing to the Future of Sustainable Aquaculture by Supporting Animal Performance, Health and Welfare
Authors: Rocha Sérgio D. C. , Valenzuela Cristián A. , Morales-Lange Byron
Published: August 2024

Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing food industries worldwide [...]
Disseminated Infection with Aspergillus fumigatus in a Scarlet Macaw Parrot (Ara macao)—A Case Report
Authors: Tanase Oana Irina , Pavel Geta , Hritcu Ozana Maria , Dascalu Mihaela Anca , Bratuleanu Bianca Elena , Rimbu Cristina Mihaela , Bocaneti Florentina Daraban
Published: August 2024

A 3-year-old male scarlet macaw parrot (Ara macao) was presented to the Exotic Animal Clinic at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iași University of Life Sciences (Iași, Romania) for its postmortem examination. According to the owner, the parrot had been raised only in captivity and after 5 days of inappetence, lethargy, and mild respiratory clinical signs, the parrot died. The post mortem examination revealed various-sized granulomas and caseous plaques in the lungs, air sacs, spleen, intestinal serosa, and liver. Microscopically, the granulomas were characterized by a necrotic center and the infiltration of numerous multinucleated giant cells and epithelioid-like cells and by the presence of hyphae typical of Aspergillus spp. Moreover, in the liver tissue, a diffuse inflammation, with numerous fungal hyphae, was noted. The fungal culture and the PCR assay allowed for the isolation and identification of Aspergillus fumigatus from the lung and liver samples. The macroscopical lesions and the histopathological findings, with the fungal isolation and molecular confirmation of Aspergillus fumigatus by nested PCR, provided the basis for the diagnosis of disseminated aspergillosis. To the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first report of disseminated infection caused by Aspergillus fumigatus in a scarlet macaw parrot (Ara macao).
Guided Plasma Application in Dentistry—An Alternative to Antibiotic Therapy
Authors: Gross Tara , Ledernez Loic Alain , Birrer Laurent , Bergmann Michael Eckhard , Altenburger Markus Jörg
Published: August 2024

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a promising alternative to antibiotics and chemical substances in dentistry that can reduce the risk of unwanted side effects and bacterial resistance. AmbiJet is a device that can ignite and deliver plasma directly to the site of action for maximum effectiveness. The aim of the study was to investigate its antimicrobial efficacy and the possible development of bacterial resistance. The antimicrobial effect of the plasma was tested under aerobic and anaerobic conditions on bacteria (five aerobic, three anaerobic (Gram +/−)) that are relevant in dentistry. The application times varied from 1 to 7 min. Possible bacterial resistance was evaluated by repeated plasma applications (10 times in 50 days). A possible increase in temperature was measured. Plasma effectively killed 106 seeded aerobic and anaerobic bacteria after an application time of 1 min per 10 mm2. Neither the development of resistance nor an increase in temperature above 40 °C was observed, so patient discomfort can be ruled out. The plasma treatment proved to be effective under anaerobic conditions, so the influence of ROS can be questioned. Our results show that AmbiJet efficiently eliminates pathogenic oral bacteria. Therefore, it can be advocated for clinical therapeutic use.
Impact of Classical Music Listening on Cognitive and Functional Performances in Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Waer Fatma Ben , Alexe Dan Iulian , Alexe Cristina Ioana , Eken Özgür , Păun Laurian Ioan , Sahli Sonia
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of listening to classical music on functional (upper and lower body strength, functional mobility and aerobic endurance) and cognitive (attentional capacities and working memory (WM)) performances in women aged between 50 and 60 years old. A total of 24 middle-aged women were enrolled to participate in this study. Their functional and cognitive performances were assessed under two-auditory conditions (no-music vs. with music conditions) using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test for functional mobility, the Arm Curl test and 30 s Chair Stand Tests for the upper and lower body strength, respectively, and the 2 min Step test for aerobic endurance. To assess the attentional capacities and the WM, a simple reaction time (SRT) test and Corsi Block-Tapping Task were used, respectively. As a result, we found that listening to music significantly decreased the scores of the TUG test (p < 0.001) and capacities (p < 0.05), and increased the 2 min Step test values (p < 0.001) compared to the no-music condition. However, no significant changes were found for the upper and lower body strength and WM. We conclude that listening to classical music, i.e., Mozart’s Symphony, is effective in improving functional mobility, aerobic endurance and attentional capacities in middle-aged women. However, these gains were absent for muscle strength and WM, suggesting that the positive effects of music on functional and cognitive performances were dependent on a specific task.
Design and Implementation of a MIMO Integral Resonant Control for Active Vibration Control of Pedestrian Structures
Authors: Pereira Emiliano , Wang Xidong , Díaz Iván M. , Aphale Sumeet S.
Published: August 2024

In contemporary construction, the prevalence of vibration serviceability issues in lightweight and slender structures has become increasingly common, owing to advancements in building materials and construction methods. While these structures often meet the criteria for ultimate limit states, they can still elicit complaints due to excessive vibrations induced by human activity. To address this challenge, the integral resonant control (IRC) technique has emerged as a favored approach for actively damping vibrations in various systems. This study introduces a fresh perspective by proposing the implementation of a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) IRC scheme for active vibration control (AVC) specifically tailored for pedestrian structures utilizing inertial mass actuators. This application of MIMO IRC for AVC represents a novel advancement in the field, offering a new solution to address vibration issues in lightweight and slender structures. Building upon a common framework and design methodology outlined in previous research, this work presents a novel application of MIMO IRC for AVC. The designed controller undergoes rigorous testing and is implemented on a laboratory floor structure to validate its efficacy. The outcomes of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed MIMO IRC scheme in actively damping vibrations, thereby enhancing the serviceability and comfort levels of lightweight and slender structures subjected to human-induced excitations.
Research on Key Parameters for Relieving Pressure on Roofs of Deep Mine Cutting and Retaining Roadways
Authors: Liu Xiao , Liang Yuntao , Hua Xinzhu , Qin Xinlin
Published: August 2024

Scientific and reasonable roof-cutting parameters are key to ensuring pressure relief of the retained roadway roof. This manuscript takes the 7135 working face of Qidong Coal Mine as the engineering background and uses theoretical analysis, numerical and on-site measurement methods to study the quantitative relationship and pressure relief effect between different roof-cutting parameters of GERRC. We established a fracture criterion based on the tensile strength of the main roof of the uncut joint along the cutting line. We analyzed the quantitative relationship between different main roof thickness, cutting height, cutting angle, and the main roof tensile stress of the uncut joint. We found that within a small range of cutting angles, as the cutting angle decreases, the tensile stress on the main roof of the uncut joint increases. When the cutting angle is 0, the main roof tensile stress of the uncut joint reaches its maximum. As the cutting height increases, the limitation of the cutting angle on the cutting height becomes smaller. Numerical simulation was conducted to study the distribution patterns of maximum and minimum principal stresses along the direction of the roadway roof during the retention period under different roof-cutting heights and angles. Based on this, the optimal unloading effect of the roadway roof and the minimum concentration of mining stress were obtained at a roof-cutting height of 9 m and a roof-cutting angle of 80°. Through on-site measurement of the stress on the reinforcement anchor cable during the retention period, the deformation of the sinking roadway roof, and the pressure relief control effect of the retained roadway roof, the pressure relief effect and scientific rationality of the design of the cutting height and cutting angle were verified.
Toward Automated Structural Design for Controlled Vibration Characteristics Using Topology Optimization and Computer Vision in Space Missions
Authors: Al Ali Musaddiq , Shimoda Masatoshi , Naguib Marc
Published: August 2024

This study explores the integration of computer vision with topology optimization for additive manufacturing, with a focus on maximizing eigenfrequency in a design domain. Utilizing custom-developed photogrammetry software, high-resolution images are processed to generate detailed 3D models, which are subsequently converted to STL files with precision. Adaptive meshing in COMSOL 5.3 Multiphysics, controlled through a MATLAB 2023 API, ensures optimal mesh resolution. Prioritizing resource conservation in extraterrestrial environments, the original volume is reduced by 50% while preserving structural integrity. The design domain undergoes rigorous topology optimization in MATLAB, supported by COMSOL’s advanced FEM simulation. The optimized design exhibits a 57% performance improvement and a 50% weight reduction, maintaining the desired vibration characteristics, validating the efficacy of the modifications. Moreover, the case with an eccentric mass shows a significant 64% increase in eigenfrequency.
Train Service Design for Rail Transit Cross-Line Operation Applying Virtual Coupling
Authors: Sun Lishan , Liu Yue , Xu Yan , Kong Dewen , Lu Huabo , Lu He
Published: August 2024

The cross-line operation (CO) of trains in urban rail transit is an effective method to efficiently satisfy transfer passenger travel demand as well as relieve the pressure of transfer stations. The primary problem of CO is designing train services to satisfy travel demand with an uneven spatial distribution of passengers. This study constructs a nonlinear integer programming model with a novel train operation scheme, i.e., virtual coupling (VC) technology, which allows the coupling/decoupling of trains on different lines at both ends of each operation zone. This scheme makes the train capacity equitably distributed in each operation zone, thereby balancing train capacity utilization over the whole CO system. Regarding the nonlinear characteristics of the proposed model, an adaptive simulated annealing genetic algorithm (ASA-GA) was designed to quickly generate high-quality solutions. Based on real-world data from the Beijing Changping Line and Line 13, the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm were verified. The computation results show that in comparison to a single grouping train composition scheme without CO, a VC scheme with CO would reduce operation costs by 46.8%, with 80.6% savings of train capacity equity. Furthermore, the average passenger residence time would be reduced by 25.9%.
Thermal Material Property Evaluation Using through Transmission Thermography: A Systematic Review of the Current State-of-the-Art
Authors: Ali Zain , Addepalli Sri , Zhao Yifan
Published: August 2024

Determining thermal material properties such as thermal diffusivity can provide valuable insights into a material’s thermal characteristics. A well-established method for this purpose is flash thermography using Parker’s half-rise equation. It assumes one-dimensional heat transfer for thermal diffusivity estimation through the thickness of the material. However, research evidence suggests that the technique has not developed as much as the reflection mode over the last decade. This systematic review explores the current state-of-the-art in through-transmission thermography. The methodology adopted for this review is the SALSA framework that seeks to Search, Appraise, Synthesise, and Analyse a selected list of papers. It covers the fundamental physics behind the technique, the advantages/limitations it has, and the current state-of-the-art. Additionally, based on the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, and Context (PICOC) framework, a specific set of inclusion and exclusion criteria was determined. This resulted in a final list of 81 journal/conference papers selected for this study. These papers were analysed both quantitatively and quantitatively to identify and address the current knowledge gap hindering the further development of through-transmission thermography. The findings from the review outline the current knowledge gap in through-transmission thermography and the challenges hindering the development of the technique, such as depth quantification in pulsed thermography and the lack of a standardised procedure for conducting measurements in the transmission mode. Overcoming some of these obstacles can pave the way for further development of this method to aid in material characterisation.
A New Shear Wave Velocity-Based Liquefaction Probability Model Using Logistic Regression: Emphasizing Fines Content Optimization
Authors: Yang Yang , Wei Yitong
Published: August 2024

A new liquefaction probability model based on shear wave velocity (Vs) was developed through a detailed comparative analysis of existing evaluation methods. Publicly available shear wave velocity liquefaction data were used to evaluate multiple existing liquefaction probability assessment methods under various probability contours and fines content levels. Significant performance differences were observed among the formulae under varying fines content levels. To construct the new model, the random forest feature importance ranking algorithm was employed to select the key parameters, including the effective stress-normalized shear wave velocity (Vs1), corrected cyclic resistance ratio (CSR7.5), magnitude (MW), depth (Z), and fines content (FC). Using these parameters, a new liquefaction probability assessment formula was developed utilizing the logistic regression model to predict the liquefaction probability. The new formula’s performance was subsequently evaluated through a detailed case analysis and validation. The results demonstrate that the new formula achieves a higher accuracy (3–11%) for the liquefaction assessment compared to the existing formulae, performing consistently well across different probability contours and fines content levels, especially in areas with high fines content. This study provides theoretical support and empirical evidence for optimizing the shear wave velocity-based liquefaction probability assessment methods.
Enhancing Adaptability and Autonomy in Cooperative Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm Robots: Implementation of Coordination and Rapidly Exploring Random Tree Algorithms for Safe and Efficient Manipulation Tasks
Authors: Urrea Claudio , Sari Pablo , Kern John , Torres Hugo
Published: August 2024

In this study, a cooperative robotic system comprising two Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm (SCARA) robots was developed and simulated. An algorithm was proposed for the coordination of robots in cooperative tasks, along with a Rapidly exploring Random Tree (RRT) path planner for obstacle avoidance. The proposed system proved effective in transferring objects between robots and in handling various scenarios of variable complexity without collisions. The implementation of advanced trajectory planning and coordination algorithms significantly improves the adaptability and autonomy of robotic systems, allowing robots to predict and react to the movements of their counterparts and changes in the environment in real time. This capability is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient work environment. The importance of synchronization and effective communication between robots is highlighted to avoid collisions and optimize trajectories and cycle times. All tests were conducted in virtual environments, allowing for the evaluation and refinement of the performance of the robots’ performance under controlled conditions. The positive results obtained in the simulations suggest that the system is well suited for future practical implementation in industrial and manufacturing applications, such as chemical handling, collaborative welding, quality inspection, among others. These findings underscore the potential of the cooperative SCARA system to improve the efficiency and safety in industrial applications using advanced algorithms and control techniques, establishing a solid foundation for future research and development in the field of cooperative robotics.
A Low-Carbon Collaborative Optimization Operation Method for a Two-Layer Dynamic Community Integrated Energy System
Authors: Wang Qiancheng , Pen Haibo , Chen Xiaolong , Li Bin , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2024

The traditional centralized optimization method encounters challenges in representing the interaction among multi-agents and cannot consider the interests of each agent. In traditional low-carbon scheduling, the fixed carbon quota trading price can easily cause arbitrage behavior of the trading subject, and the carbon reduction effect is poor. This paper proposes a two-layer dynamic community integrated energy system (CIES) low-carbon collaborative optimization operation method. Firstly, a multi-agent stage feedback carbon trading model is proposed, which calculates carbon trading costs in stages and introduces feedback factors to reduce carbon emissions indirectly. Secondly, a two-layer CIES low-carbon optimal scheduling model is constructed. The upper energy seller (ES) sets energy prices. The lower layer is the combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) system and load aggregator (LA), which is responsible for energy output and consumption. The energy supply and consumption are determined according to the ES energy price strategy, which reversely affects the energy quotation. Then, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm embedded with quadratic programming is utilized to solve the established scheduling model, which reduces the difficulty and improves the solving efficiency. Finally, the simulation results under the actual CIES example show that compared with the traditional centralized scheduling method, the total carbon emission of the proposed method is reduced by 16.34%, which can improve the income of each subject and make the energy supply lower carbon economy.
RE-PU: A Self-Supervised Arbitrary-Scale Point Cloud Upsampling Method Based on Reconstruction
Authors: Han Yazhen , Yin Mengxiao , Yang Feng , Zhan Feng
Published: August 2024

The point clouds obtained directly from three-dimensional scanning devices are often sparse and noisy. Therefore, point cloud upsampling plays an increasingly crucial role in fields such as point cloud reconstruction and rendering. However, point cloud upsampling methods are primarily supervised and fixed-rate, which restricts their applicability in various scenarios. In this paper, we propose a novel point cloud upsampling method, named RE-PU, which is based on the point cloud reconstruction and achieves self-supervised upsampling at arbitrary rates. The proposed method consists of two main stages: the first stage is to train a network to reconstruct the original point cloud from a prior distribution, and the second stage is to upsample the point cloud data by increasing the number of sampled points on the prior distribution with the trained model. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve comparable outcomes to supervised methods in terms of both visual quality and quantitative metrics.
Future Prospects of the Assembly Model for MEP Systems in Chinese Buildings: A Whole Life Cycle Perspective
Authors: Wang Chun , Ouyang Peng , Liu Xiaodong , Zou Zhihua , Wang Yuanping , Wang Ruiling
Published: August 2024

The assembly building M&E (Monitoring and Evaluation) system is a vital part of the transformation of China’s construction industry, featuring intelligent control, high efficiency, and high safety. The article provides a comprehensive review of research related to assembly M&E systems from the perspective of the whole life cycle of assembly, containing 125 journal articles from 1993 to 2024. The article analyzes some policies with updated iterations in the United States, Japan, Germany, Denmark, France, and the European Union. The literature review and semi-structured interviews with experts identified significant constraints limiting the various stages of the entire life cycle of assembled MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems. The absence of uniform design standards, personnel collaboration, prefabricated component testing, transportation, information utilization, intelligent testing, and recycling of disassemblability that can occur in the entire life cycle of assembled MEP systems are summarized. Finally, the article suggests that assembly M&E systems can be shared and marketed to improve the economic viability of assembly M&E systems and their wide application in the areas of technology, platform, and demand.
Effects of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Improving Physical Function, Cognitive Function, and Sleep Quality for Older People with Dynapenia in Long-Term Care Institutions: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Su Yu-Chen , Chang Shu-Fang
Published: August 2024

As the global demographic shifts toward an aging population, aging-related problems, particularly in older individuals with dynapenia, are increasingly gaining attention. However, interventional studies focusing on physical and cognitive function and sleep quality in such individuals are limited, indicating a need for further exploration. The present study investigated the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) training on physical and cognitive function and sleep quality in older people with dynapenia residing in long-term care institutions. This study was a randomized controlled trial. The experimental group underwent WBV training three times a week for 3 months, whereas the control group continued with their regular daily care routine. Statistical analyses were performed using the Traditional Chinese version of SAS Statistics version 9.4. Paired t tests, a one-way analysis of variance, independent t tests, and generalized estimating equation analysis were performed. The results revealed that compared with the control group, the experimental group experienced significant improvements in grip strength, instrumental activities of daily living, cognitive function, and sleep quality in terms of latency and duration. These findings suggest that 3 months of WBV training can effectively enhance physical and cognitive function and sleep quality in older people with dynapenia residing in long-term care institutions.
INVSID 1.0: An Inverse System Identification Toolbox for MATLAB
Authors: Han Runzhe , Bohn Christian , Bauer Georg
Published: August 2024

The inverse system identification toolbox named INVSID 1.0 for MATLAB, which is used to identify the inversion of single-input single-output systems, is developed. The complete process from theoretical derivation to toolbox creation of developing the toolbox is demonstrated. Afterwards, numerical examples are illustrated to describe how the toolbox can be used to solve inverse identification problems. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the toolbox.
Can Complex Training Improve Acute and Long-Lasting Performance in Basketball Players? A Systematic Review
Authors: Flórez Gil Enrique , Vaquera Alejandro , Ramírez-Campillo Rodrigo , Sanchez-Sanchez Javier , Rodríguez Fernández Alejandro
Published: August 2024

Basketball demands a sophisticated blend of tactical, technical, physical, and psychological skills, and various methods have been proposed to prepare players for these demands, including resistance training to enhance strength, power, speed, agility, and endurance. Complex training (CT) integrates diverse strength training methodologies by combining heavy-resistance exercises (e.g., squat at 90% of one repetition maximum) with high-velocity movements or plyometrics, both sharing the same biomechanical pattern. However, the optimal application of CT in basketball remains uncertain due to diverse protocols and a lack of consensus in the literature. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the acute and chronic effects of CT interventions on physical fitness performance in basketball players and identify the most effective characteristics of moderators. Methods: A bibliographic search was conducted using PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines using the PICOS strategy. Results: Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, three articles analyzed acute effects, and thirteen analyzed chronic effects. The total number of participants in the studies analyzing acute effects was 50, while for studies examining chronic effects, it was 362. Conclusions: Acutely, CT triggers post-activation potentiation and enhances sprint performance when coupled with brief rest intervals. Over time, these acute improvements contribute to more substantial, long-lasting benefits. Chronic effects of CT improve strength, as evidenced by enhanced 1 RM performance, jumps, sprints, and core muscle strength.
High Accuracy Reconstruction of Airborne Streak Tube Imaging LiDAR Using Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Wang Xing , Chen Zhaodong , Dong Chaowei , Dong Zhiwei , Chen Deying , Fan Rongwei
Published: August 2024

Airborne streak tube imaging LiDAR (STIL) consists of several different data-generating subsystems and introduces system errors each time it is installed on an aircraft. These errors change with each installation, which makes the parametric calibration of the LiDAR meaningless. In this study, we propose a high-precision reconstruction method for point clouds that can be used without calibrating the system parameters. In essence, after each remote sensing measurement, a self-checking process is performed with experimental data to replace the fixed system parameters. In this process, the splicing error of the same region measured under different conditions is used as a criterion to optimize the reconstruction parameters via a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. For a detection distance of 3000 m, the elevation error of the point cloud reconstruction reaches more than 1 m if the placement parameters are not optimized; after optimization, the elevation error can be controlled within 0.3 m.
A Transformer Maintenance Interval Optimization Method Considering Imperfect Maintenance and Dynamic Maintenance Costs
Authors: Yang Jianzhong , Wu Hongduo , Yang Yue , Zhao Xiayao , Xun Hua , Wei Xingzheng , Guo Zhiqi
Published: August 2024

As one of the most critical components of the power grid system, transformer maintenance strategy planning significantly influences the safe, economical, and sustainable operation of the power system. Periodic imperfect maintenance strategies have become a research focus in preventive maintenance strategies for large power equipment due to their ease of implementation and better alignment with engineering realities. However, power transformers are characterized by long lifespans, high reliability, and limited defect samples. Existing maintenance methods have not accounted for the dynamic changes in maintenance costs over a transformer’s operational lifetime. Therefore, we propose a maintenance interval optimization method that considers imperfect maintenance and dynamic maintenance costs. Utilizing defect and maintenance cost data from 400 220 KV oil-immersed transformers in northern China, we employed Bayesian estimation for the first time to address the distribution fitting of defect data under small sample conditions. Subsequently, we introduced imperfect maintenance improvement factors to influence the number of defects occurring in each maintenance cycle, resulting in more realistic maintenance cost estimations. Finally, we established an optimization model for transformer maintenance cycles, aiming to minimize maintenance costs throughout the transformer’s entire lifespan while maintaining reliability constraints. Taking a transformer’s strong oil circulation cooling system as an example, our method demonstrates that while meeting the reliability threshold recognized by the power grid company, the system’s maintenance cost can be reduced by 41.443% over the transformer’s entire life cycle. Through parameter analysis of the optimization model, we conclude that as the maintenance cycle increases, the factors dominating maintenance costs shift from corrective maintenance to preventive maintenance.
Evaluation of the Forecasting Performance of Supercooled Clouds for the Weather Modification Model of the Cloud and Precipitation Explicit Forecasting System
Authors: Wang Jia , Mei Qin , Mei Haixia , Guo Jun , Liu Tongchang
Published: August 2024

Through the application of cloud top temperature data and the extraction of supercooled cloud information in cloud-type data from the next-generation Himawari-8 geostationary satellite with high spatial–temporal resolution, a quantitative evaluation of the forecasting performance of the weather modification model named the Cloud and Precipitation Explicit Forecasting System (CPEFS) was conducted. The evaluation, based on selected forecast cases from 8 days in September and October 2018 initialized at 00 and 12 UTC every day, focused especially on the forecasting performance in supercooled clouds (vertical integrated supercooled liquid water, VISL > 0), including the comprehensive spatial distribution of cloud top temperature (CTT) and 3 h precipitation over 0.1 mm (R3 > 0.1). The results indicated that the forecasting performance for VISL > 0 was relatively good, with the Threat Score (TS) ranging from 0.46 to 0.67. The forecasts initialized at 12 UTC slightly outperformed the forecasts initialized at 00 UTC. Additionally, the corresponding spatial Anomaly Correlation Coefficient (ACC) of CTT between forecasts and observations was 0.23, and the TS for R3 > 0.1 reached as high as 0.87. For a mix of cold and warm cloud systems, there was a correlation between the forecasting performance of VISL > 0 and CTT. The trends in the TS for VISL > 0 and the ACC of CTT aligned with the forecast lead-time.
Regulatory Role and Cytoprotective Effects of Exogenous Recombinant SELENOM under Ischemia-like Conditions and Glutamate Excitotoxicity in Cortical Cells In Vitro
Authors: Turovsky Egor A. , Plotnikov Egor Y. , Varlamova Elena G.
Published: August 2024

Despite the successes in the prevention and treatment of strokes, it is still necessary to search for effective cytoprotectors that can suppress the damaging factors of cerebral ischemia. Among the known neuroprotectors, there are a number of drugs with a protein nature. In the present study, we were able to obtain recombinant SELENOM, a resident of the endoplasmic reticulum that exhibits antioxidant properties in its structure and functions. The resulting SELENOM was tested in two brain injury (in vitro) models: under ischemia-like conditions (oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation, OGD/R) and glutamate excitotoxicity (GluTox). Using molecular biology methods, fluorescence microscopy, and immunocytochemistry, recombinant SELENOM was shown to dose-dependently suppress ROS production in cortical cells in toxic models, reduce the global increase in cytosolic calcium ([Ca2+]i), and suppress necrosis and late stages of apoptosis. Activation of SELENOM’s cytoprotective properties occurs due to its penetration into cortical cells through actin-dependent transport and activation of the Ca2+ signaling system. The use of SELENOM resulted in increased antioxidant protection of cortical cells and suppression of the proinflammatory factors and cytokines expression.
An Update on the Study of the Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Autophagy during Bacterial Pathogenesis
Authors: Rahman Md Ataur , Sarker Amily , Ayaz Mohammed , Shatabdy Ananya Rahman , Haque Nabila , Jalouli Maroua , Rahman MD. Hasanur , Mou Taslin Jahan , Dey Shuvra Kanti , Hoque Apu Ehsanul , Zafar Muhammad Sohail , Parvez Md. Anowar Khasru
Published: August 2024

Autophagy is a unique catabolic process that degrades irrelevant or damaged components in eukaryotic cells to maintain homeostasis and eliminate infections from pathogenesis. Pathogenic bacteria have developed many autophagy manipulation techniques that affect host immune responses and intracellular bacterial pathogens have evolved to avoid xenophagy. However, reducing its effectiveness as an innate immune response has not yet been elucidated. Bacterial pathogens cause autophagy in infected cells as a cell-autonomous defense mechanism to eliminate the pathogen. However, harmful bacteria have learned to control autophagy and defeat host defenses. Intracellular bacteria can stimulate and control autophagy, while others inhibit it to prevent xenophagy and lysosomal breakdown. This review evaluates the putative functions for xenophagy in regulating bacterial infection, emphasizing that successful pathogens have evolved strategies to disrupt or exploit this defense, reducing its efficiency in innate immunity. Instead, animal models show that autophagy-associated proteins influence bacterial pathogenicity outside of xenophagy. We also examine the consequences of the complex interaction between autophagy and bacterial pathogens in light of current efforts to modify autophagy and develop host-directed therapeutics to fight bacterial infections. Therefore, effective pathogens have evolved to subvert or exploit xenophagy, although autophagy-associated proteins can influence bacterial pathogenicity outside of xenophagy. Finally, this review implies how the complex interaction between autophagy and bacterial pathogens affects host-directed therapy for bacterial pathogenesis.
Genetic and Epigenetic Biomarkers Associated with Early Relapse in Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Focused Bioinformatics Study on DNA-Repair Genes
Authors: Albaqami Walaa F. , Alshamrani Ali A. , Almubarak Ali A. , Alotaibi Faris E. , Alotaibi Basil Jamal , Alanazi Abdulrahman M. , Alotaibi Moureq R. , Alhoshani Ali , As Sobeai Homood M.
Published: August 2024

Genomic instability is one of the main drivers of tumorigenesis and the development of hematological malignancies. Cancer cells can remedy chemotherapeutic-induced DNA damage by upregulating DNA-repair genes and ultimately inducing therapy resistance. Nevertheless, the association between the DNA-repair genes, drug resistance, and disease relapse has not been well characterized in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This study aimed to explore the role of the DNA-repair machinery and the molecular mechanisms by which it is regulated in early- and late-relapsing pediatric ALL patients. We performed secondary data analysis on the Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET)—ALL expansion phase II trial of 198 relapsed pediatric precursor B-cell ALL. Comprehensive genetic and epigenetic investigations of 147 DNA-repair genes were conducted in the study. Gene expression was assessed using Microarray and RNA-sequencing platforms. Genomic alternations, methylation status, and miRNA transcriptome were investigated for the candidate DNA-repair genes. We identified three DNA-repair genes, ALKBH3, NHEJ1, and PARP1, that were upregulated in early relapsers compared to late relapsers (p < 0.05). Such upregulation at diagnosis was significantly associated with disease-free survival and overall survival in precursor-B-ALL (p < 0.05). Moreover, PARP1 upregulation accompanied a significant downregulation of its targeting miRNA, miR-1301-3p (p = 0.0152), which was strongly linked with poorer disease-free and overall survivals. Upregulation of DNA-repair genes, PARP1 in particular, increases the likelihood of early relapse of precursor-B-ALL in children. The observation that PARP1 was upregulated in early relapsers relative to late relapsers might serve as a valid rationale for proposing alternative treatment approaches, such as using PARP inhibitors with chemotherapy.