bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acceptance of Public Health Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Swiss Population’s Beliefs, Attitudes, Trust, and Information-Seeking Behavior
Authors: Fiordelli Maddalena , Rubinelli Sara , Diviani Nicola
Published: June 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to advance the understanding of the factors associated with population acceptance of public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: In January 2022, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of the Swiss population (N = 2,587). Questionnaires were administered through computer-assisted web interviewing. Measures covered included information-seeking behavior, attitudes towards and beliefs about public health measures enacted, and trust in institutions.

Results: Television and newspapers were the most used information sources. Those with higher education levels were more likely to use channels from public institutions, newspapers, and television. The most important criterion for reliable information was scientific evidence. Trust was highest for doctors, healthcare workers, universities, research institutes, and public health institutions. Acceptance of public health measures was high overall, and attitudes, beliefs, information-seeking behavior, and trust were positively related to acceptance. Trust in science remained stable, while trust in public health institutions decreased slightly.

Conclusion: While nurturing a two-way dialogue with the population, institutions should target communication considering age and culture, improve risk communication, ground messages in scientific evidence, and ensure mass media presence.
An Alternative Multi-Physics-Based Methodology for Strongly Coupled Electro-Magneto-Mechanical Problems
Authors: Reato Federico Maria , Ricci Claudio , Misfatto Jan , Calzaferri Matteo , Cinquemani Simone
Published: June 2023

The analysis of complex systems tends to be approached through a separation and a simplification of the main macro phenomena and, thus, addressed through dedicated techniques, tools, and algorithms. A smart and interesting possibility, instead, is represented by the so-called model-based design analysis, which allows one to interface phenomena coming from interactions of different physical natures. This paper aims to propose a multi-physics Matlab/Simulink®-based architecture that allows one to integrate general and strongly non-linear coupling phenomena, taking efforts from two novel implemented bi-directional co-simulation routines based on Spice® and ESRF Radia® engines. Emphasis is dedicated to the discussion and description of the co-simulation algorithms and processes characteristic of these routines, which allow the analog electronic and the magneto dynamic domain’s integration under a single simulation environment. To highlight the reliability of the multi-domain architecture and to validate the reported co-simulation results, a comparison with the experimental measures obtained on an innovative MEMS electromagnetic actuator are proposed.
The Bell-Shaped Opera Houses Realised by Antonio Galli Bibiena: Acoustic Comparison between the Communal Theatre of Bologna and the Scientific Theatre of Mantua
Authors: Bevilacqua Antonella , Tronchin Lamberto
Published: June 2023

Many acoustic studies have been carried out in the Italian theatres built during the 17th and 18th centuries. Along with the development of technology, acoustic measurements become increasingly more accurate, able to capture the faithful acoustic conditions of these cultural heritage buildings that are considered icons for representing the house of sound. Although considered controversial for their innovative geometry and shape, the plan layouts proposed by the architect Antonio Galli Bibiena for the theatres placed in Bologna and Mantua were remarkable and appreciated by the audience given the florid artistical program run over the seasons. Site were undertaken in order to analyse the acoustic response of the main halls. From the recorded impulse response, both monoaural and binaural acoustic parameters were compared between the two theatres, where the analysis separately considered the stalls and balconies. The historical background of the selected theatres was detailed to understand the acoustic behaviour of the main halls.
Computational Control Strategy for Reducing Medial Compartment Load in Knee Bracing with Embedded Actuator
Authors: Bamdad Mahdi , Javanfar Amirhosein
Published: June 2023

Medial unloader braces represent a primary noninvasive approach for alleviating knee pain. However, conventional valgus unloader braces, while reducing load on the medial compartment, inadvertently increase load on the lateral compartment through rotation from adduction to abduction. This phenomenon significantly elevates the risk of damage to the lateral compartment. To address this issue, we introduce a novel embedded actuation mechanism that unloads the knee using a pioneering computational procedure. By considering the knee osteoarthritis condition, we propose the calculation of the adduction knee angle and cartilage penetration depth as surrogate parameters for assessing knee pain. Accordingly, the newly developed unloader brace redistributes the load by precisely correcting the abduction angle. Additionally, we determine the maximum required torque for effectively tracking the desired abduction angle. Then, the saturated torque through the robust control method is applied in the presence of interaction force uncertainty between the orthosis and the user. A very small femur rotation change (1.7°) from adduction to abduction in the frontal plane is adequate to significantly reduce the medial contact force (around 886 N). The required robust external abduction torque is determined to be 27.6 Nm. The result shows that the novel procedure and brace prevent excessive overloading of the lateral compartment while it unloads the medial compartment sufficiently. This innovative approach offers significant potential for optimizing unloader brace design and enhancing the management of knee osteoarthritis.
Measuring the Precision of the Oculus Quest 2’s Handheld Controllers
Authors: Pereira Diogo , Oliveira Vitor , Vilaça João L. , Carvalho Vítor , Duque Duarte
Published: June 2023

Consumer-grade virtual reality systems have become increasingly accessible over the last years, making these great options for psychological and physiological medical use. This paper studies the precision of one available system, the Oculus Quest 2. We investigated studies that approached testing of these types of systems using manual systems and automated systems using robot arms and decided to use the latter method for our evaluation. A setup was created where the robotic arm would perform diverse exercises, with the Quest controller attached to it while the headset was either stationary or being worn by a participant. The results show that these systems are precise enough to measure movements that would not be noticed by therapists during traditional rehabilitation and are therefore adequate for medical use.
Optimisation of Control Strategies for Power Shift Gearboxes
Authors: Pan Wenlong , Wang Lei , Ni Xiangdong , Cai Wenqing , Zhao Yongqiang , Chen Huajun , Lin Yuangang , Zhou Yuhan
Published: June 2023

This study is based on the influence of power shift control on the smoothness of cotton picker shifts and proposes an optimization method for the smoothness of power shifts with different control strategies for the gearbox. Through the structural design of the power shift mechanism control module, the hydraulic power distribution of the hydraulic system of the hydraulic travel module and its control mode are analyzed, and a regional cooperative shift control strategy is proposed in conjunction with control theory. A model of cotton picker dynamics was built using AMESim simulation software. In addition, the traditional control strategy was simulated and compared with the Statement component automatic control strategy to analyze and discuss the control deficiencies in power shift smoothness. Then, a particle swarm genetic algorithm (PSGA) was constructed by integrating the PSO algorithm and the genetic algorithm to verify the effectiveness of the algorithm in improving the dynamic performance and shift smoothness of the gearbox. The algorithm was verified using bench tests, and the algorithm improved the harvesting quality and efficiency of the cotton picker.
Efficacy of Different Fungicide Spraying Techniques on the Infestation with Kabatiella zeae and Formation of Fusarium Mycotoxins in Forage Maize
Authors: Birr Tim , Tillessen Andreas , Verreet Joseph-Alexander , Hasler Mario , Klink Holger
Published: June 2023

The application of fungicides in maize by the commonly used overhead spraying technique is more challenging than in small-grain cereals. Especially in later development stages, when the plant has reached a considerable height, lower plant organs (e.g., ears) may be insufficiently protected, since a large part of the applied fungicide is deposited on the upper leaves. In contrast, lower plant organs can be reached by the dropleg spraying technique, which allows sub-canopy applications. This study investigated the efficacy of fungicide applications during flowering in forage maize using the overhead and dropleg spraying techniques as well as a combination for the control of Kabatiella zeae and mycotoxin-producing Fusarium species, which can affect leaves and ears, respectively. The efficacy was evaluated in field trials under natural K. zeae and artificial Fusarium inoculum conditions in Northern Germany by measuring disease severities of K. zeae on maize leaves, dry matter yields, and concentrations of the Fusarium mycotoxins deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEN) at harvest. Fusarium inoculations of main ears at full flowering resulted in significantly higher DON and ZEN concentrations compared to natural Fusarium infections, whereas the dry matter yield was not affected. The strongest disease progressions of K. zeae were determined after flowering on the upper leaves and leaves around the main ear. Disease severities were significantly reduced on the upper leaves by the overhead application and the combination of the overhead and dropleg spraying technique, whereby the three spraying techniques were equally able to decrease the infestation on the yield-essential leaves around the main ear. No differences in dry matter yield were found between the application techniques, but they were significantly higher than in the untreated control. The contamination with DON and ZEN was most effectively reduced by sub-canopy applications using the dropleg technique, whether as a solo application or in combination with the overhead technique. The main ears were reached better with the applied fungicide, reducing Fusarium infections, and therefore, contamination with mycotoxins. The dropleg technique offers an opportunity for improved protection of lower plant organs, especially in tall growing crops. In combination with the overhead spraying technique, the protection of various plant organs along the entire plant with the applied fungicide could be advantageous, especially when different parts of the plant are affected by different fungal diseases.
Evaluation of Body Surface Temperature in Pigs Using Geostatistics
Authors: Alves Maria de Fátima Araújo , Pandorfi Héliton , Montenegro Abelardo Antônio de Assunção , Silva Rodes Angelo Batista da , Gomes Nicoly Farias , Santana Taize Calvacante , Almeida Gledson Luiz Pontes de , Marinho Gabriel Thales Barboza , Silva Marcos Vinícius da , Silva Weslley Amaro da
Published: June 2023

This paper explores the potential of infrared thermography and geostatistics in animal production and presents the results of the application of the combination of these techniques, contributing significantly to efforts to obtain animals’ responses to the environments in which they are located and thereby ensuring improvements in productivity and animal welfare. The objective was to verify the variability in surface temperature in pigs submitted to different climate control systems using geostatistics. Three growing animals per stall were selected. Dry bulb temperature (Tbd, °C), relative humidity (RH, %) and thermal images were recorded at 08:00 and 12:00 h. To analyze the data, semivariograms were made, the theoretical model was validated and kriging maps were constructed. The mean temperature of the pigs in the pen with adiabatic evaporative cooling (AEC) ranged from 32.40 to 36.25 °C; for the pigs in the forced ventilation (FV) pen, the range of variation was from 32.51 to 36.81 °C. In the control group (Con), with natural ventilation, the average temperature was 37.51 to 38.45 °C. The geostatistical analysis provided a mathematical model capable of illustrating the variation in temperature in the caudal–dorsal regions of the pigs according to the environments to which the animals were subjected.
Management of Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn Resistance to Glyphosate Herbicide in Indonesia
Authors: Kurniadie Denny , Widianto Ryan , Umiyati Uum , Widayat Dedi , Nasahi Ceppy , Budiawan Ari
Published: June 2023

Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn, commonly known as goosegrass or wiregrass, is a type of grass that is widespread in many parts of the world. The broad-spectrum herbicide glyphosate is most frequently used in Indonesian oil palm plantations to get rid of weeds and other undesirable plants. However, improper rotation of herbicide types by farmers has led to an increased risk of resistant weed emergence. This investigation tries to validate E. indica’s glyphosate resistance, investigate mutations in the EPSPS gene of the resistant biotype, and determine the type of herbicides that can control E. indica glyphosate-resistant biotypes. The whole plant pot test method was used to measure the resistance level, while DNA sequencing using the PCR method was conducted on all samples to identify mutations in the EPSPS gene of the resistant biotype. The study results showed that all biotypes of E. indica were identified as resistant to glyphosate but susceptible to propaquizafop, ametryn, and sulfentrazone herbicides. Several biotypes, such as the North Sumatra biotype, were identified as having multiple resistances to glyphosate, paraquat, and ammonium glufosinate. Thr102Iso and Pro106Ser amino acid substitutions were found in the EPSPS gene of E. indica-resistant biotypes. The findings of this study showed that E. indica was resistant to paraquat and ammonium glufosinate; further research is required to determine the mechanism.
Recent Trends in Active and Passive Immunotherapies of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Alshamrani Meshal
Published: June 2023

In the elderly, a debilitating condition known as dementia, which is a major health concern, is caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Despite promising advances by researchers, there is currently no way to completely cure this devastating disease. It is illustrated by the deposition of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) plaques that are followed by neural dysfunction and cognitive decline. Responses against AD activate an immune system that contributes to and accelerates AD pathogenesis. Potential efforts in the field of pathogenesis have prompted researchers to explore novel therapies such as active and passive vaccines against Aβ proteins (Aβ immunotherapy), intravenous immunoglobulin, and tau immunotherapy, as well as targets that include microglia and several cytokines for the treatment of AD. Aims are now underway by experts to begin immunotherapies before the clinical manifestation, which is made possible by improving the sensitivity of biomarkers used for the diagnosis of AD to have better outcome measures. This review provides an overview of approved immunotherapeutic strategies for AD and those currently being investigated in clinical trials. We examine their mechanisms of action and discuss the potential perspectives and challenges associated with immunotherapies for AD.
Treatment of Periodontal Infections, the Possible Role of Hydrogels as Antibiotic Drug-Delivery Systems
Authors: Mensah Adelaide , Rodgers Aoife M. , Larrañeta Eneko , McMullan Lyndsey , Tambuwala Murtaza , Callan John F. , Courtenay Aaron J.
Published: June 2023

With the advancement of biomedical research into antimicrobial treatments for various diseases, the source and delivery of antibiotics have attracted attention. In periodontal diseases, antibiotics are integral in positive treatment outcomes; however, the use of antibiotics is with caution as the potential for the emergence of resistant strains is of concern. Over the years, conventional routes of drug administration have been proven to be effective for the treatment of PD, yet the problem of antibiotic resistance to conventional therapies continues to remain a setback in future treatments. Hydrogels fabricated from natural and synthetic polymers have been extensively applied in biomedical sciences for the delivery of potent biological compounds. These polymeric materials either have intrinsic antibacterial properties or serve as good carriers for the delivery of antibacterial agents. The biocompatibility, low toxicity and biodegradability of some hydrogels have favoured their consideration as prospective carriers for antibacterial drug delivery in PD. This article reviews PD and its antibiotic treatment options, the role of bacteria in PD and the potential of hydrogels as antibacterial agents and for antibiotic drug delivery in PD. Finally, potential challenges and future directions of hydrogels for use in PD treatment and diagnosis are also highlighted.
Ether Derivatives of Naringenin and Their Oximes as Factors Modulating Bacterial Adhesion
Authors: Duda-Madej Anna , Kozłowska Joanna , Baczyńska Dagmara , Krzyżek Paweł
Published: June 2023

Because of the close connection between adhesion and many vital cellular functions, the search for new compounds modulating the adhesion of bacteria belonging to the intestinal microbiota is a great challenge and a clinical need. Based on our previous studies, we discovered that O-lkyl naringenin derivatives and their oximes exhibit antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. The current study was aimed at determining the modulatory effect of these compounds on the adhesion of selected representatives of the intestinal microbiota: Escherichia coli, a commensal representative of the intestinal microbiota, and Enterococcus faecalis, a bacterium that naturally colonizes the intestines but has disease-promoting potential. To better reflect the variety of real-life scenarios, we performed these studies using two different intestinal cell lines: the physiologically functioning (“healthy”) 3T3-L1 cell line and the disease-mimicking, cancerous HT-29 line. The study was performed in vitro under static and microfluidic conditions generated by the Bioflux system. We detected the modulatory effect of the tested O-alkyl naringenin derivatives on bacterial adhesion, which was dependent on the cell line studied and was more significant for E. coli than for E. faecalis. In addition, it was noticed that this activity was affected by the concentration of the tested compound and its structure (length of the carbon chain). In summary, O-alkyl naringenin derivatives and their oximes possess a promising modulatory effect on the adhesion of selected representatives of the intestinal microbiota.
Effects of Dietary Oleacein Treatment on Endothelial Dysfunction and Lupus Nephritis in Balb/C Pristane-Induced Mice
Authors: Muñoz-García Rocío , Sánchez-Hidalgo Marina , Alcarranza Manuel , Vazquéz-Román María Victoria , de Sotomayor María Alvarez , González-Rodríguez María Luisa , de Andrés María C. , Alarcón-de-la-Lastra Catalina
Published: June 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic immune-inflammatory disease characterized by multiorgan affectation and lowered self-tolerance. Additionally, epigenetic changes have been described as playing a pivotal role in SLE. This work aims to assess the effects of oleacein (OLA), one of the main extra virgin olive oil secoiridoids, when used to supplement the diet of a murine pristane-induced SLE model. In the study, 12-week-old female BALB/c mice were injected with pristane and fed with an OLA-enriched diet (0.01 % (w/w)) for 24 weeks. The presence of immune complexes was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Endothelial dysfunction was studied in thoracic aortas. Signaling pathways and oxidative-inflammatory-related mediators were evaluated by Western blotting. Moreover, we studied epigenetic changes such as DNA methyltransferase (DNMT-1) and micro(mi)RNAs expression in renal tissue. Nutritional treatment with OLA reduced the deposition of immune complexes, ameliorating kidney damage. These protective effects could be related to the modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinases, the Janus kinase/signal transducer and transcription activator of transcription, nuclear factor kappa, nuclear-factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2, inflammasome signaling pathways, and the regulation of miRNAs (miRNA-126, miRNA-146a, miRNA-24-3p, and miRNA-123) and DNMT-1 expression. Moreover, the OLA-enriched diet normalized endothelial nitric oxide synthase and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase-1 overexpression. These preliminary results suggest that an OLA-supplemented diet could constitute a new alternative nutraceutical therapy in the management of SLE, supporting this compound as a novel epigenetic modulator of the immunoinflammatory response.
Improved Segmentation of Pulmonary Nodules Using Soft Computing Techniques with SegNet and Adversarial Networks
Authors: Cheppamkuzhi Vinod , Dharmaraj Menaka
Published: June 2023

Lung cancer is seen as one of the most common lung diseases. For the patients having symptoms, the presence of lung nodules is checked by using various imaging techniques. Pulmonary nodules are detected in most of the cases having symptoms. But identifying the type of the nodule and the categorization still remains as a challenge. After confirming the presence of a nodule (benign or malignant) it takes several other steps to identify its characteristics. Improved imaging methods produce results within a short span of time. Research works are being conducted to increase the overall efficiency of the system. The proposed system considers authentic data sources for the study. The benign and malignant samples are considered for the generation of realistic large image sets. The generation of a large data set with the help of a generative adversarial network (GAN) is the first part of the work. The generated images using GAN cannot be differentiated from the original images even by a trained radiologist. This proves the importance of images generated using GAN. A GAN is able to generate 1024 × 1024 resolutions for natural images. Real data images are used to finetune the SegNet output. Through transfer learning, these weights are transferred to the system for segmentation of the images. The training process use real and generated images, which improve theefficiency of the network. The original data from LUNA 16 was used to further generate benign and malignant samples using GAN. A total of 440 images and their augmented images were used for training the GAN, and it generated 1,001,000 images. Hence the overall efficiency of the system was improved. To verify the results, the same various combinations and methods were considered and tabulated with various parameters. Methods with SegNet, GAN, and other combinations were evaluated to verify the efficiency of the system. Receiver operating characteristics were also plotted and compared with the area under the curve for verification of the results.
In Vivo Bone Progression in and around Lattice Implants Additively Manufactured with a New Titanium Alloy
Authors: Obaton Anne-Françoise , Fain Jacques , Meinel Dietmar , Tsamos Athanasios , Léonard Fabien , Lécuelle Benoît , Djemaï Madjid
Published: June 2023

The osseointegration in/around additively manufactured (AM) lattice structures of a new titanium alloy, Ti–19Nb–14Zr, was evaluated. Different lattices with increasingly high sidewalls gradually closing them were manufactured and implanted in sheep. After removal, the bone–interface implant (BII) and bone–implant contact (BIC) were studied from 3D X-ray computed tomography images. Measured BII of less than 10 µm and BIC of 95% are evidence of excellent osseointegration. Since AM naturally leads to a high-roughness surface finish, the wettability of the implant is increased. The new alloy possesses an increased affinity to the bone. The lattice provides crevices in which the biological tissue can jump in and cling. The combination of these factors is pushing ossification beyond its natural limits. Therefore, the quality and speed of the ossification and osseointegration in/around these Ti–19Nb–14Zr laterally closed lattice implants open the possibility of bone spline key of prostheses. This enables the stabilization of the implant into the bone while keeping the possibility of punctual hooks allowing the implant to be removed more easily if required. Thus, this new titanium alloy and such laterally closed lattice structures are appropriate candidates to be implemented in a new generation of implants.
Classification of Ethnicity Using Efficient CNN Models on MORPH and FERET Datasets Based on Face Biometrics
Authors: Abdulwahid Abdulwahid Al
Published: June 2023

Ethnic conflicts frequently lead to violations of human rights, such as genocide and crimes against humanity, as well as economic collapse, governmental failure, environmental problems, and massive influxes of refugees. Many innocent people suffer as a result of violent ethnic conflict. People’s ethnicity can pose a threat to their safety. There have been many studies on the topic of how to categorize people by race. Until recently, the majority of the work on face biometrics had been conducted on the problem of person recognition from a photograph. However, other softer biometrics such as a person’s age, gender, race, or emotional state are also crucial. The subject of ethnic classification has many potential uses and is developing rapidly. This study summarizes recent advances in ethnicity categorization by utilizing efficient models of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and focusing on the central portion of the face alone. This article contrasts the results of two distinct CNN models. To put the suggested models through their paces, the study employed holdout testing on the MORPH and FERET datasets. It is essential to remember that this study’s results were generated by focusing on the face’s central region alone, which saved both time and effort. Classification into four classes was achieved with an accuracy of 85% using Model A and 86% using Model B. Consequently, classifying people according to their ethnicity as a fundamental part of the video surveillance systems used at checkpoints is an excellent concept. This categorization statement may also be helpful for picture-search queries.
Do Oral Antiseptics Affect the Force Degradation of Elastomeric Chains?
Authors: Šimunović Luka , Blagec Tadeja , Šutej Ivana , Meštrović Senka
Published: June 2023

Objective: This study aimed to compare the force degradation of elastomeric chains submerged in commonly used mouthrinses. Methods: One hundred samples of elastomeric orthodontic chains from five different brands (Ormco, GC, RMO, Forestandent, and 3M Unitek) were initially activated on double length, and the force was measured with a universal mechanical testing machine. Then, elastomeric modules were thermocycled and immersed into four different mouthrinses: Octenident, Vitis Orthodontic, Perio Plus+, and Listerine through a total number of three cycles which simulated 30 days of intraoral exposure. Force decay was measured after each cycle. Results: All specimens showed statistically significant force degradation over the tested period (p < 0.001). After thermocycling and immersion in oral antiseptics, the lowest measured force was found in Forestadent EOC in Listerine with a median of 70 cN (70–75 cN) and Vitis orthodontic with a median of 70 cN (70–80 cN). On the contrary, the least prone to force reduction was the control group of Ormco 280 cN (275–285 cN) and RMO 280 cN (270–280 cN). Conclusions: Elastomeric chains’ force degradation could be exacerbated by the use of mouth rinses. These data could be beneficial in choosing the appropriate combination of elastomeric chain and mouthrinse for optimal results of orthodontic therapy.
Calculation Method for Determining the Wall Displacement and Primary Support Bearing Capacity of Tunnels
Authors: Wang Xiuying , Tan Zhongsheng , Li Qinglou , Zheng Weihan
Published: June 2023

The primary support structure of a tunnel often needs various support methods, such as bolts, steel arch frames, and shotcrete. It is of great significance to quickly calculate the displacement of tunnel walls and the bearing capacity of primary supports for guiding construction and ensuring construction safety. In order to solve the above problems, this paper constructs a mechanical model of primary support and analyzes the displacement of a tunnel wall at different construction stages of primary support; based on the Mohr–Coulomb strength criterion, the displacement of the tunnel wall at different stages of the primary support is derived, and the calculation method and process for calculating the bearing capacity of the primary support are given. The accuracy of the proposed method is then verified by an example. Compared with previous methods, the method proposed in this paper considers the support effects of bolts, steel arches, and shotcrete separately and calculates the corresponding displacement of the tunnel wall, which is closer to the actual construction situation. In addition, the bearing capacity of the primary support can be calculated and analyzed. By comparing with the numerical simulation results, it has been proven that the proposed method has a relatively small calculation error. Compared with the numerical simulation results and previous analytical methods, the method proposed in this paper is simpler and faster in calculation; thus, it can quickly assist in the design of tunnel support structures.
Non-Destructive Internal Defect Detection of In-Shell Walnuts by X-ray Technology Based on Improved Faster R-CNN
Authors: Zhang Hui , Ji Shuai , Shao Mingming , Pu Houxu , Zhang Liping
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to achieve non-destructive detection of the internal defects of in-shell walnuts using X-ray radiography technology based on improved Faster R-CNN network model. First, the FPN structure was added to the feature-extraction layer to extract richer image information. Then, ROI Align was used instead of ROI Pooling for eliminating the localization bias problem caused by the quantization operation. Finally, the Softer-NMS module was introduced to the final regression layer with the predicted bounding box for improving the localization accuracy of the candidate boxes. The results of the study indicated that the proposed network model can effectively identify internal defects of in-shell walnuts. Specifically, the discrimination accuracies of the in-shell sound, shriveled, and empty-shell walnuts were 96.14%, 91.72%, and 94.80%, respectively, and the highest overall accuracy was 94.22%. Compared to the original Faster R-CNN network model, the improved Faster R-CNN model achieved an increase of 5.86% in mAP and 5.65% in F1-value. Consequently, the proposed method can be applied for the in-shell walnuts with shriveled and empty-shell defects.
Research on the Influence Mechanism of Outdoor Wind Environment on Indoor Smoke Exhaust Efficiency in the Super-High-Rise Tower Crown Based on Airpak Simulation
Authors: Zhang Tongtong , Zhou Xiaojun , Zhang Zhongsheng , Qu Fei
Published: June 2023

The high wind pressure and velocity of the outdoor environment make super-high-rise tower crown space distinct from general tall through space. This segregation causes the crown space to be particularly prone to smoke short-circuiting influenced by the outside wind environment if a fire occurs indoors, and causes deficient smoke exhaust efficiency in a fire. The goal of this study was to investigate the general principle regarding the effect of the outdoor wind environment on smoke exhaust efficiency of such spaces under the crown space. We measured external wind direction and wind pressure in the smoke exhaust in the tower crown and developed setting plans for the exhaust outlets and make-up air inlet. Airpak was used to create the external wind environment and compare simulations to see if smoke short-circuiting occurred. We analyzed the causes, summarized solutions that did not result in short-circuiting of smoke flow, and made adjustments. We provide an ideal plan for the setting direction and vent velocity of the make-up air inlet and exhaust outlet in the crown spaces of super-tall towers to improve the design of smoke exhaust systems in such spaces.
The Dependence of Gales on Relevant Meteorological Elements in One of the Hottest Regions of China, the Turpan Basin
Authors: Xu Zhiqi , Tang Hao , Zhang Xiya , Hu Haibo
Published: June 2023

The Turpan Basin is one of the hottest regions in China, with high fire potential. The occurrence of gales could roll over trains as well as spread and expand the fire rapidly, posing adverse effects on traffic and fire protection. Therefore, it is important to discuss the frequency and mechanism of gales in Turpan. Based on the observational data of seven stations and ERA5 reanalysis data from 2015 to 2021, this study uses the t-mode principal component analysis using the oblique rotation (T-PCA) method to explore the seasonal differences and related synoptic patterns of gales in the Turpan Basin. The synoptic circulations are divided into nine categories. In types 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 9, there are a high-pressure center to the west and a lower-pressure center to the south of Turpan, while in types 4, 6 and 8, there is a strong high-pressure center to the south or northeast of Turpan. When the high-pressure system is located to the west of Turpan, gales are prone to occur, while to the south or northeast, gales seem to be less likely to occur, which is closely related to synoptic patterns and terrain. To the best of our knowledge, this study pioneered the frequency and mechanism of gales in Turpan, which could facilitate gale prevention in the area.
Meteorological Drought Variability over Africa from Multisource Datasets
Authors: Lim Kam Sian Kenny T. C. , Zhi Xiefei , Ayugi Brian O. , Onyutha Charles , Shilenje Zablon W. , Ongoma Victor
Published: June 2023

This study analyses the spatiotemporal variability of meteorological drought over Africa and its nine climate subregions from an ensemble of 19 multisource datasets (gauge-based, satellite-based and reanalysis) over the period 1983–2014. The standardized precipitation index (SPI) is used to represent drought on a 3-month scale. We analyse various drought characteristics (duration, events, frequency, intensity, and severity) for all drought months, and moderate, severe, and extreme drought conditions. The results show that drought occurs across the continent, with the equatorial regions displaying more negative SPI values, especially for moderate and severe droughts. On the other hand, Eastern Sahara and Western Southern Africa portray less negative SPI values. The study also reveals that extreme drought months have the largest interannual variability, followed by all drought months and severe drought months. The trend analysis of SPI shows a significantly increasing trend in drought episodes over most regions of Africa, especially tropical areas. Drought characteristics vary greatly across different regions of Africa, with some areas experiencing longer and more severe droughts than others. The equatorial region has the highest number of drought events, with longer durations for severe and extreme drought months. The Eastern Sahara region has a low number of drought events but with longer durations for moderate, severe, and extreme drought months, leading to an overall higher drought severity over the area. In contrast, Western Southern Africa and Madagascar display a consistently low drought severity for all categories. The study demonstrates the importance of conducting drought analysis for different drought levels instead of using all drought months. Drought management and adaptation strategies need to enhance community resilience to changing drought situations and consider drought variability in order to mitigate different impacts of drought across the continent.
Hopf Bifurcation Analysis and Optimal Control of an Infectious Disease with Awareness Campaign and Treatment
Authors: Al Basir Fahad , Rajak Biru , Rahman Bootan , Hattaf Khalid
Published: June 2023

Infectious diseases continue to be a significant threat to human health and civilization, and finding effective methods to combat them is crucial. In this paper, we investigate the impact of awareness campaigns and optimal control techniques on infectious diseases without proper vaccines. Specifically, we develop an SIRS-type mathematical model that incorporates awareness campaigns through media and treatment for disease transmission dynamics and control. The model displays two equilibria, a disease-free equilibrium and an endemic equilibrium, and exhibits Hopf bifurcation when the bifurcation parameter exceeds its critical value, causing a switch in the stability of the system. We also propose an optimal control problem that minimizes the cost of control measures while achieving a desired level of disease control. By applying the minimum principle to the optimal control problem, we obtain analytical and numerical results that show how the infection rate of the disease affects the stability of the system and how awareness campaigns and treatment can maintain the stability of the system. This study highlights the importance of awareness campaigns in controlling infectious diseases and demonstrates the effectiveness of optimal control theory in achieving disease control with minimal cost.
Each Personality Performs Its Own Function: Boldness and Exploration Lead to Differences in the Territoriality of Swimming Crabs (Portunus trituberculatus)
Authors: Zhu Boshan , Wang Xin , Ren Ziwen , Zhang Hanzun , Liu Dapeng , Wang Fang
Published: June 2023

The boldness and exploration of animals are closely related to their territoriality, with relevant studies having important applications in wildlife conservation. The present study establishes a behavior observation system measuring the boldness and exploration of swimming crabs (Portunus trituberculatus) to clarify the relationship between boldness, exploration, and territoriality, as well as to provide a behavioral basis for the construction of marine ranching. The behavioral tests of crabs in a safe environment (predator absence), a dangerous environment (predator presence), and habitat selection (complex and simple habitat) are analyzed. A territorial behavior score is calculated as an evaluation index of territoriality. The correlation between the swimming crabs’ boldness, exploration, and territoriality is analyzed. The results show that there is no boldness-exploratory behavioral syndrome. In predator absence or presence environments, boldness is dominant in territorial behavior and positively correlates with territoriality. Exploration plays a vital role in habitat selection tests but has no significant correlation with territoriality. The experimental results preliminarily show that boldness and exploration jointly develop the difference in the space utilization ability of crabs with different personalities, improving the adaptability of swimming crabs in different conditions. The results of this study supplement the behavior rules of the dominant species of typical fishery resources in marine ranches, providing a basis for achieving animal behavior management function in marine ranches.
Role of Muscle Ultrasound for the Study of Frailty in Elderly Patients with Diabetes: A Pilot Study
Authors: Simó-Servat Andreu , Guevara Ernesto , Perea Verónica , Alonso Núria , Quirós Carmen , Puig-Jové Carlos , Barahona María-José
Published: June 2023

Background: Sarcopenia and diabetes contribute to the development of frailty. Therefore, accessible methods, such as muscle ultrasounds (MUSs), to screen for sarcopenia should be implemented in clinical practice. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional pilot study including 47 patients with diabetes (mean age: 77.72 ± 5.08 years, mean weight: 75.8 kg ± 15.89 kg, and body mass index: 31.19 ± 6.65 kg/m2) categorized as frail by the FRAIL Scale or Clinical Frailty Scale and confirmed by Fried’s Frailty Phenotype or Rockwood’s 36-item Frailty Index. We used the SARC-F questionnaire to identify sarcopenia. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests were used to assess physical performance and the risk of falls, respectively. In addition, other variables were measured: fat-free mass (FFM) and Sarcopenia Risk Index (SRI) with the bioimpedance analysis (BIA); thigh muscle thickness (TMT) of the quadriceps with MUS; and hand-grip strength with dynamometry. Results: We observed correlations between the SARC-F and FFM (R = −0.4; p < 0.002) and hand-grip strength (R = −0.5; p < 0.0002), as well as between the TMT and FFM of the right leg (R = 0.4; p < 0.02) and the SRI (R = 0.6; p < 0.0001). We could predict sarcopenia using a logistic regression model with a ROC curve (AUC = 0.78) including FFM, handgrip strength, and TMT. The optimal cut-off point for maximum efficiency was 1.58 cm for TMT (sensitivity = 71.4% and specificity = 51.5%). However, we did not observe differences in the TMT among groups of greater/less frailty based on the SARC-F, SPPB, and TUG (p > 0.05). Conclusions: MUSs, which correlated with the BIA (R = 0.4; p < 0.02), complemented the diagnosis, identifying regional sarcopenia of the quadriceps in frail patients with diabetes and improving the ROC curve to AUC = 0.78. In addition, a TMT cut-off point for the diagnosis of sarcopenia of 1.58 cm was obtained. Larger studies to validate the MUS technique as a screening strategy are warranted.
Flexible Attachment and Detachment of Centromeres and Telomeres to and from Chromosomes
Authors: Kuse Riku , Ishii Kojiro
Published: June 2023

Accurate transmission of genomic information across multiple cell divisions and generations, without any losses or errors, is fundamental to all living organisms. To achieve this goal, eukaryotes devised chromosomes. Eukaryotic genomes are represented by multiple linear chromosomes in the nucleus, each carrying a centromere in the middle, a telomere at both ends, and multiple origins of replication along the chromosome arms. Although all three of these DNA elements are indispensable for chromosome function, centromeres and telomeres possess the potential to detach from the original chromosome and attach to new chromosomal positions, as evident from the events of telomere fusion, centromere inactivation, telomere healing, and neocentromere formation. These events seem to occur spontaneously in nature but have not yet been elucidated clearly, because they are relatively infrequent and sometimes detrimental. To address this issue, experimental setups have been developed using model organisms such as yeast. In this article, we review some of the key experiments that provide clues as to the extent to which these paradoxical and elusive features of chromosomally indispensable elements may become valuable in the natural context.
Treatment with Myo-Inositol Does Not Improve the Clinical Features in All PCOS Phenotypes
Authors: Unfer Vittorio , Russo Michele , Aragona Cesare , Bilotta Gabriele , Montanino Oliva Mario , Bizzarri Mariano
Published: June 2023

Background: The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects produced by a treatment with myo-Inositol (myo-Ins) in women presenting polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) of different phenotypes. Methods: We performed a retrospective study to evaluate whether patients presenting different PCOS phenotypes, treated for 6 months with myo-Ins, might exhibit a differential response to the treatment. On this premise, we clustered women with PCOS phenotypes A, B, and C in the first study group (hyperandrogenic PCOS or H-PCOS), and women presenting PCOS phenotype D in a separate study group (non-hyperandrogenic PCOS or NH-PCOS) to evaluate if the presence of hyperandrogenism, shared by H-PCOS, might imply a metabolic/endocrine condition rather than a gynecological issue. Results: The administration of myo-Ins induced a significant improvement in metabolic and endocrine parameters in H-PCOS, while the effects on NH-PCOS were negligible. Additionally, myo-Ins treatment improved the endometrial thickness of H-PCOS. Conclusions: Subjects selected for the study exhibited a differential response to myo-Ins therapy according to their PCOS phenotypes. The data suggest that the same treatment might not equally improve the parameters of the PCOS condition in each sub-group of patients. It is crucial to distinguish the various phenotypes to properly select the therapeutical approach.
Vitamin D: Can Gender Medicine Have a Role?
Authors: Ciarambino Tiziana , Crispino Pietro , Minervini Giovanni , Giordano Mauro
Published: June 2023

This narrative review aims to shed light on the role of gender differences, on the biological and molecular functions in the main pathological mechanisms that recognize the role of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread worldwide, but it is still very controversial whether the amount of vitamin D taken daily is actually the only problem related to its biological functions. Currently, the plasma concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D represents the only indicator of the circulating blood quota. The concept is that the biological function of vitamin D is not only linked to its circulating levels, but it is hypothesized that its biological functions depend, above all, on its total bioavailability. In particular, vitamin D circulates for the most part linked to albumin and vitamin D binding protein (DBP), which depend on various pathological conditions and physiologically, above all, the function of the latter is regulated by estrogens, glucocorticoids, and inflammatory cytokines. During her life, women undergo various changes in the hormonal and sexual sphere concerning menarche, possible pregnancies, and breastfeeding but also the use of contraceptives and, finally, the transition from the period of fertility to menopause. Each of these phases presents specific needs and, consequently, sometimes also specific criticalities. Studies on young women have shown that vitamin D deficiency is present in 58 to 91% of cases. Obesity, metabolic disorders, and variation in estrogen contraction may affect vitamin D deficiency due to the decreased bioavailability from dietary sources due to deposition in body fat compartments.