bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Extension Control Instrument for Power Wheelchair Based on Kalman Filter Head Motion Detection
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Ying Zhuohang , Tian Xinyu , Jin Siyuan , Huang Junjie , Miao Yinan
Published: April 2024

People with upper limb disabilities or high quadriplegia have extremely high requirements for the maneuverability and functionality of power wheelchairs. Normal wheelchairs cannot meet travel tasks, while smart customized wheelchairs are expensive and cannot be popularized. Therefore, a novel extension control instrument for power wheelchairs with low cost, strong scalability, and convenient usage is proposed, which can realize the control of the wheelchair by sensing a change of head posture. The device is divided into a head motion sensing unit (HMSU) and a wheelchair assistance control unit (WACU). The mapping relationship between the head attitude and the subject’s motion intention is established. The inertial measurement module in the HMSU collects the head attitude data and uses the Kalman filtering method to obtain the accurate Euler angle. The WACU is fixed on the original controller of the wheelchair. The joystick is inserted into the extended control mechanism and controlled, instead of the hand, through a 2-degree-of-freedom servo system combined with the pinion and rack push rod structure, thus controlling the movement of the wheelchair. In proceeding, the system can also detect the distance of objects in the environment in real time through the three-direction (front, left, right) ultrasonic ranging sensors installed on the WACU, with a certain obstacle avoidance function. The prototype experiments prove that the extension control instrument developed in this paper based on the Kalman filter can quickly and accurately identify head motion and accurately control the movement of the wheelchair. It is easy to operate and has strong universality, which presents a new low-cost solution for the travel of patients with disabilities.
Experimental Study of the Effect of the Initial Droplet Diameter on the Evaporation Characteristics of Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine Droplets in a Subcritical Environment
Authors: Wu Gangqiang , Nie Wansheng , Yang Congling , Zhou Siyin , Wang Hui
Published: April 2024

The evaporation characteristics of unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine droplets with different initial diameters in a subcritical environment were experimentally investigated with the temperature–pressure separation technique. The evaporation processes of unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine droplets with different initial diameters in this environment have the same general pattern. All the studied droplets exhibit a short transient heating phase and a steady-state evaporation phase obeying d2. Notably, the expansion of the transient heating phase gradually increases with increasing ambient pressure. The change in diameter squared ∆d2max increases from 1.03% at 1 MPa to 12.48% at 5 MPa. Under subcritical conditions, the evaporation rate decreases linearly with decreasing droplet diameter, and the droplet evaporation lifetime increases linearly. Changes in the initial droplet diameter may still have a large effect on droplets smaller than those studied here. When the ambient pressure is not greater than 3 MPa, the change in the steady-state evaporation time for both medium- and large-diameter droplets accounts for more than 70% of the variation in the droplet evaporation lifetime. As the ambient pressure increases to 4 MPa and 5 MPa, the percentage of the change in the transient heating time contributing to the variation in the droplet evaporation lifetime gradually increases to more than 45%.
Investigation on Phase Transition and Collection Characteristics of Non-Spherical Ice Crystals with Eulerian and Lagrangian Methods
Authors: Lu Shengfang , Chen Weijian , Zhang Dalin , Zhang Zihao , Zhu Guangya
Published: April 2024

Ice crystal icing occurs in jet engine compressors, which can severely degrade jet engine performance. In this paper, two different numerical calculation methods, the Eulerian method and the Lagrangian method, were used to evaluate the dynamics, mass transfer, heat transfer, phase transition and trajectory of ice crystals. Then, we studied the effects of initial diameter, initial sphericity, initial temperature of ice crystal, and relative humidity of airflow on the phase transition and collection characteristics of ice crystal particles. Results indicate that the non-spherical characteristics of ice crystals have a significant impact on their impingement limits and collection characteristics. The collection coefficient of unmelted ice crystals is positively correlated with the initial particle diameter and sphericity, and negatively correlated with the initial particle temperature and the relative humidity of airflow. The melting rate of ice crystal particles on the impact surface increases exponentially with the initial diameter of the particles, linearly increases with the relative humidity of the airflow and initial temperature of the particles, and exponentially decreases with the sphericity of the particles.
Utilizing the Fusion Characteristics of Multispectral and Electronic Noses to Detect Soil Main Nutrient Content
Authors: Fu Lili , Liu Shuyan , Huang Dongyan , Wang Jingli , Jiang Xinming , Wang Gang
Published: April 2024

Soil nutrients are essential for plant growth, and it is crucial to accurately detect their levels. However, current methods for detecting soil nutrients still have low accuracy and high costs. In this study, we propose a multi-source fusion feature approach that combines multispectral image technology with electronic nose gas response technology to achieve rapid, high-precision, and cost-effective detection of soil nutrients, including soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), available potassium (AK), and available phosphorus (AP). To begin, a multispectral camera was used to collect spectral images and extract seven index features. Additionally, an electronic nose was used to collect soil pyrolysis gases to obtain the response curve and extract seven response features. These two sets of features were effectively fused to form a 106 × 98 fusion feature space. Secondly, principal component analysis (PCA) and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) algorithms were used to optimize and reduce the dimensionality of the fused feature space. Finally, a predictive model of the relationship between the feature space and the nutrient content of the soil samples was established using the random forest (RF) and partial least squares regression (PLSR) algorithms. The predictive performance of the model was used to evaluate the accuracy of soil nutrient detection. The results showed that the PLSR modeling of the optimized feature space of PCA achieved high accuracy in predicting the levels of main soil nutrients, with R2 values for SOM, TN, AK, and AP of 0.96, 0.95, 0.84, and 0.73, and the RMSE values of 0.56, 0.07, 3.21, and 3.70, respectively. Compared to using only electronic nose gas response technology, the soil nutrient detection with multi-source data features method in this study not only improved the accuracy for SOM and TN but also for metal elements AK and AP in soil. The spectral index features proposed in this study were able to compensate for the limitations of the electronic nose response features, and modeling with the fusion feature space resulted in an accurate prediction of SOM, TN, AK, and AP levels.
Preliminary Exploration of Physiology and Genetic Basis Underlying High Yield in Indica–Japonica Hybrid Rice
Authors: Fan Xiaojuan , Cui Yongtao , Song Jian , Fan Honghuan , Tang Liqun , Wang Jianjun
Published: April 2024

The utilization of heterosis is of great significance in improving rice yield. To explore the physiological and genetic basis for high yield in indica–japonica hybrid rice, Zheyou18 (z18) and Yongyou12 (y12) were used as materials and compared with indica hybrid rice, Zheyou12 (z12); japonica hybrid rice, Liangyoupeijiu (LYPJ); and the conventional lines zhe04B (04B) and zhehui818 (h818) under seedling growth vigor, functional leaf morphology, chlorophyll content, yield component, panicle trait, and InDel heterosis analysis. Z18 and y12 showed the largest increase in plant height 6 d and 9 d after germination; the root dry weight of z18 was 31.2% and 42.0% higher than its parents on the 12th d. The length of functional leaves ranked in the middle, while the width was the largest, resulting in z18 and y12 having the largest leaf area. Yield components showed that z18 and y12 had the highest number of primary branches, spikelets, and grains, and grain yield, which was 58.1 g in z18, increased by 29.8% and 8.7%, respectively, in comparison with h818 and LYPJ. The InDel genetic distance was significantly positively correlated with single spike weight, with r reaching 0.771, making it the only consistent and most correlated among the seven traits. Therefore, we speculated that as the InDel genetic distance expands, heterosis mainly manifests in the increase in single spike weight. This study comprehensively explored the physiological mechanism of yield improvement in indica–japonica-hybrid rice and used InDel genetic distances to study the genetic basis of heterosis, which will be helpful for future rice yield improvement.
Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analyses Provide New Insights into Health-Promoting Metabolites from Cannabis Seeds Growing in the Bama Region of China
Authors: Duan Mingzheng , Rao Muhammad Junaid , Li Qing , Zhao Falin , Fan Hongzeng , Li Bo , He Dandan , Han Shijian , Zhang Jiangjiang , Wang Lingqiang
Published: April 2024

Hemp seeds are consumed in “Bama longevity villages” in China and are believed to contribute to the locals’ longevity. However, the molecular breeding of hemp seeds is limited due to our lack of understanding of molecular regulation and metabolite accumulation at different maturity stages. Here, we conducted metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of hemp seeds from the Bama region at four maturity stages (S1 to S4). In total, 1231 metabolites of 11 classes were detected in hemp seeds from S1–S4, including 233 flavonoids, 214 phenolic acids, 159 lipids, 118 amino acids and derivatives, 100 alkaloids, 100 organic acids, 71 nucleotides and derivatives, 43 lignans and coumarins, 14 terpenoids, 13 tannins, and 166 others. The metabolomic analysis of hemp seeds (from the Bama region) revealed a higher number of flavonoid metabolites compared with seven other varieties from other regions in China. Hemp seeds are rich in metabolites like cannflavin, trigonelline, citric acid, vitexin, choline alfoscerate, and choline, which may potentially contribute to the longevity of the Bama people. Through transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, a gradual decrease in the overall expression pattern of genes and metabolite accumulation was observed during seed maturation. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed that two genes (ncbi_115696993 and ncbi_115706674) are involved in regulating main metabolites, while transcription factor association analysis revealed that three transcription factor genes (MYB, NAC, and GRAS) are also involved in regulating the metabolites. The expression pattern of these five candidate genes was further verified by qPCR. Our study provides valuable insights into the metabolic substances during seed maturation and identifies candidate genes that could be utilized for future genetic engineering to enhance the endogenous biosynthesis of health-promoting metabolites in hemp seeds, potentially leading to improved nutritional and medicinal properties.
How Does Irrigation with Wastewater Affect the Physical Soil Properties and the Root Growth of Sugarcane under Subsurface Drip?
Authors: Lopes Sobrinho Oswaldo Palma , Santos Leonardo Nazário Silva dos , Teixeira Marconi Batista , Soares Frederico Antônio Loureiro , Gonçalves Ivo Zution , Barbosa Eduardo Augusto Agnellos , Nazário Aline Azevedo , Matsura Edson Eiji , Vitorino Luciana Cristina , Reis Mateus Neri Oliveira , Bessa Layara Alexandre
Published: April 2024

Studies on the development of the root system can provide important information about responses to different management strategies, such as the use of lower quality water, also evaluating the interaction between plants and the physical properties of the soil. This study tested the hypothesis that irrigation with treated sewage effluent (TSE) supplies the water needs of sugarcane plants, increasing root growth and improving the physical properties of the soil. We evaluated the effects of subsurface dripping with TSE or surface reservoir water (SRW) on the root development of first ratoon cane (Saccharum officinarum L.) and the physical properties of dystrophic red latosol. Irrigation treatments were applied at 20 and 40 cm and soil properties were evaluated at soil depth layers of 0–20, 20–40, 40–60, and 60–80 cm. We verified that under irrigation with TSE and SRW, shallower soil layers present better porosity, soil aggregation, and aggregate stability conditions, parameters that improve the root system development and plant growth. On the other hand, deeper soil layers have lower macroporosity and higher total clay volume, indicating the possibility of compaction and greater limitations for sugarcane root growth. These results are important for understanding soil quality and provide significant information for agricultural management and for the implementation of sustainable soil conservation practices. This study shows the efficiency of TSE as an alternative water source for sugarcane crops.
Visible Near-Infrared Hyperspectral Soil Organic Matter Prediction Based on Combinatorial Modeling
Authors: Zhang Xiuquan , Liu Dequan , Ma Junwei , Wang Xiaolei , Li Zhiwei , Zheng Decong
Published: April 2024

Non-destructive, fast, and accurate prediction of soil organic matter content in farmland is of great significance for soil fertility assessment and rational fertilization. In the process of soil organic matter prediction, it is important to give full play to the advantages of different prediction models and to integrate different prediction models to innovatively construct a combined prediction model of soil organic matter content so as to improve the prediction accuracy and generalization ability of the model. In this study, the soil organic matter content of agricultural soils was taken as the research object, and the visible near-infrared hyperspectral curves of soils were measured by the Starter Kit indoor mobile scanning platform (Headwall Photonics, Bolton, MA, USA), and the original spectral curves were firstly de-noised by Savitzky–Golay (S-G) smoothing. Secondly, the smoothed and denoised spectral data were subjected to a first-order differential transform, and the features were selected based on the first-order differential transformed spectral data using the L1-paradigm algorithm features. Then, secondly, eight algorithms based on the selected feature bands, such as LASSO Regression (LASSO) (Model 1), Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) (Model 2), Random Forest (RF) (Model 3), Gaussian Kernel Regression (GKR) (Model 4), Ridge Regression (Model 5), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) (Model 6), Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) (Model 7), and Support Vector Regression (SVR) (Model 8), were applied to construct a single-prediction model of soil organic matter content. Finally, a superior linear combination-prediction model was proposed by the eight single-prediction models constructed, and the standard deviation-based prediction validity was added to test the model. The results showed the following: (1) the weights of the eight single-prediction models in the combined prediction model were ω1*=0.099, ω2*=0.202, ω3*=0.000, ω4*=0.357, ω5*=0.088, ω6*=0.089, ω7*=0.000, ω8*=0.165, respectively; (2) The average precision E of the predicted values of soil organic matter content constructed based on the eight single-prediction models was 0.856; the average standard deviation σ was 0.181, and the average prediction validity M was 0.702; (3) The accuracy E of the predicted value of soil organic matter content of the combined model was 0.893, which was 4.322% higher than the average accuracy of the single model; the standard deviation of the combined model was 0.129, which was 28.333% lower than the average standard deviation of the single model, and the prediction validity M of the combined model was 0.778, which was 10.826% higher than the average prediction validity of the single model. The combined model can be used for the effective estimation of soil organic matter content in farmland with visible near-infrared spectral data, which can provide a basis and reference for the rapid detection of soil organic matter content in farmland.
Lentil Cultivar Evaluation in Diverse Organic Mediterranean Environments
Authors: Baxevanos Dimitrios , Kargiotidou Anastasia , Noulas Christos , Kouderi Antigoni-Maria , Aggelakoudi Maria , Petsoulas Christos , Tigka Evangelia , Mavromatis Athanasios , Tokatlidis Ioannis , Beslemes Dimitrios , Vlachostergios Dimitrios N.
Published: April 2024

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) production faces challenges due to shifting environmental conditions, potentially leading to a transition towards cooler or highland Mediterranean environments. This study assessed the responses of five lentil genotypes across five diverse locations (L1–L5) managed under organic cropping systems over two seasons, focusing on key parameters including seed yield (SY), crude protein (CP), cooking time (CT), seed loss percentage (SL), and yield loss per hectare (YL) caused by bruchid (Bruchus sp.). Excessive seasonal rainfall (500 mm), low winter temperatures (−17.9 °C), bruchid SL, and spring sowing were identified as crucial, particularly in challenging environments like highlands. Genotype selection was highlighted as essential for balancing yield and stability, with the small-seeded cultivar ‘Dimitra’ demonstrating lower YL due to bruchid. Additionally, increased CP was noted in response to heightened bruchid infestations. Specific recommendations were proposed for different environments: In productive lowland areas with low bruchid pressure and high CTs (L1), prioritizing cultivars like ‘Samos’, ‘Dimitra’, and ‘Thessalia’ enhances quality. Locations with high bruchid populations (L4) were not favored organic production but can serve as genetic resistance screening sites. High-elevation environments (L3, L5) proved significantly less productive, underscoring the requirement for earlier and winter-hardy cultivars. These insights guide lentil cultivation, emphasizing the need for tailored breeding strategies adaptable to changing environments.
Towards an ELSA Curriculum for Data Scientists
Authors: Christoforaki Maria , Beyan Oya Deniz
Published: April 2024

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in a growing number of domains in recent years has put into focus the ethical, legal, and societal aspects (ELSA) of these technologies and the relevant challenges they pose. In this paper, we propose an ELSA curriculum for data scientists aiming to raise awareness about ELSA challenges in their work, provide them with a common language with the relevant domain experts in order to cooperate to find appropriate solutions, and finally, incorporate ELSA in the data science workflow. ELSA should not be seen as an impediment or a superfluous artefact but rather as an integral part of the Data Science Project Lifecycle. The proposed curriculum uses the CRISP-DM (CRoss-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining) model as a backbone to define a vertical partition expressed in modules corresponding to the CRISP-DM phases. The horizontal partition includes knowledge units belonging to three strands that run through the phases, namely ethical and societal, legal and technical rendering knowledge units (KUs). In addition to the detailed description of the aforementioned KUs, we also discuss their implementation, issues such as duration, form, and evaluation of participants, as well as the variance of the knowledge level and needs of the target audience.
New Data on the Larval Stages of Leptophallus nigrovenosus (Digenea, Plagiorchiata)
Authors: Poonlaphdecha Srisupaph , Ribas Alexis , Martínez-Silvestre Albert , Villa Mercedes
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: Leptophallus nigrovenosus, an esophageal parasite that primarily affects water snakes of the genus Natrix, has a known life cycle that involves snail and amphibian hosts. However, the biological aspects, chaetotaxic patterns, and pathogeny of this parasite in its hosts have not been fully elucidated. (2) Methods: Snails (Planorbarius metidjensis) were collected in Spain and examined for cercaria emergence. The larvae were used to experimentally infect Salamandra salamandra, and metacercariae were isolated. Their chaetotaxy was studied using microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The eye histology was also examined. (3) Results: The cercariae displayed distinctive morphological characteristics. The results of this study revealed three types of ciliated sensory papillae on the cercarial teguments, suggesting an adaptation for host detection and orientation. The metacercariae isolated from subcutaneous tissues showed oval bodies covered in spines. The chaetotaxy patterns matched those of Leptophallinae species. This is the first report of the presence of L. nigrovenosus in the snail P. metidjensis. Additionally, this study detected metacercariae in the eyes of S. salamandra, emphasizing the need for further research on trematode infections in amphibian eyes. (4) Conclusions: Members of the genus Salamandra can serve as secondary intermediate hosts for L. nigrovenosus, and the presence of metacercariae in amphibian eyes may have implications for the survival and habitat management of these amphibians. Understanding this parasite’s prevalence, transmission dynamics, and impacts on host populations is crucial for conservation strategies.
Fatty Acid Profile and Dietary Value of Thigh Meat of Broiler Chickens Receiving Mineral or Organic Forms of Zn
Authors: Winiarska-Mieczan Anna , Kwiecień Małgorzata , Purwin Cezary , Jachimowicz-Rogowska Karolina , Borsuk-Stanulewicz Marta , Pogorzelska-Przybyłek Paulina , Kiczorowska Bożena
Published: April 2024

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of mineral (sulphate) or organic (glycine chelate) forms of Zn used in quantities covering 100% or 50% of the Zn requirement on the fatty acid profile of the thigh muscles of Ross 308 broiler chickens. We also analysed the dietary value of this meat based on its fatty acid profile. The experimental factors did not influence the content of basic chemical components and the meat’s pH. Although, in terms of statistics, the presented study supports the statement that the form (sulphate vs. glycine chelate) and/or amount of Zn used (100% or 50% of the requirement) affects the fatty acid profile and dietary value of thigh meat, the results imply that the requirement of Ross 308 broiler chickens for Zn was also covered in full when in it was used in amounts covering 50% of the requirement, irrespective of the form in which Zn was used. However, it cannot be explicitly confirmed that the form of Zn affects the analysed parameters of thigh meat.
Synergistic Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Phenolic Acid-Conjugated Glutamine–Histidine–Glycine–Valine (QHGV) Peptides Derived from Oysters (Crassostrea talienwhanensis)
Authors: Choi Soyun , Han Sohee , Lee Seungmi , Kim Jongmin , Kim Jinho , Kang Dong-Ku
Published: April 2024

The glutamine–histidine–glycine–valine (QHGV), a peptide derived from oysters, exhibits antioxidant activity and is being actively researched as a potential pharmaceutical and functional cosmetic ingredient. In this study, we synthesized the QHGV peptide and explored the hitherto unknown anti-inflammatory effects of QHGV. The antioxidant property was also characterized by conjugating with various naturally derived phenolic acids, such as caffeic, gallic, ferulic, sinapinic, and vanillic acids. Conjugation with phenolic acids not only enhanced the antioxidant activity of QHGV but also diminished the lipopolysaccharide-induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the murine macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7. The reduction in the levels of reactive oxygen species led to the reduced mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNos) and cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox-2), resulting in an anti-inflammatory effect through the inhibition of the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase, including extracellular signal-activated protein kinase, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase, and p38. Furthermore, the phenolic acid-conjugated peptides increased the mRNA and protein levels of collagen type I, indicative of a wrinkle-improvement effect. The phenolic acid conjugates of the peptide were not cytotoxic to human keratinocytes such as HaCaT cells. These results suggest that phenolic acid conjugation can enhance the potential of peptides as drug and cosmetic resources.
Unveiling the Significance of Peroxiredoxin 6 in Central Nervous System Disorders
Authors: Xue Min , Huang Xiaojie , Zhu Tong , Zhang Lijun , Yang Hao , Shen Yuxian , Feng Lijie
Published: April 2024

Peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6), a unique 1-Cys member of the peroxiredoxin family, exhibits peroxidase activity, phospholipase activity, and lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase (LPCAT) activity. Prdx6 has been known to be an important enzyme for the maintenance of lipid peroxidation repair, cellular metabolism, inflammatory signaling, and antioxidant damage. Growing research has demonstrated that the altered activity of this enzyme is linked with various pathological processes including central nervous system (CNS) disorders. This review discusses the distinctive structure, enzyme activity, and function of Prdx6 in different CNS disorders, as well as emphasizing the significance of Prdx6 in neurological disorders.
Effects of Regular Exercise on the Biochemical, Oxidative, and Inflammatory Profiles and Quality of Life in Older Spaniards with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Monserrat-Mesquida Margalida , Quetglas-Llabrés Maria Magdalena , Bouzas Cristina , García Silvia , Mateos David , Ugarriza Lucía , Gómez Cristina , Tur Josep A. , Sureda Antoni
Published: April 2024

Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The regular practice of physical activity is a crucial factor for healthy aging and for controlling and preventing chronic diseases. To assess the effects of regular physical activity on the biochemical and inflammatory profiles, as well as the quality of life of older adults diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Participants (aged 55–70 years; living in the Balearic Islands, Spain) were divided into two groups (n = 50 each) according to the degree of physical activity measured by metabolic equivalents of task (METs). Anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, biochemical and hematological parameters, and inflammatory biomarkers were measured. Beck Depression Inventory and adherence to the Mediterranean diet questionnaires, as well as the Dietary Inflammatory Index, chair test, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity, were also determined. The characterization of the patients was similar in both groups, showing a homogeneous sample. The group with the highest METs experienced a decrease in depression and an increase in the intensity of physical activity. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and HRQoL physical dimensions increased in participants with the highest METs, also showing a decrease in glycemia and glycosylated hemoglobin values. Inflammatory biomarkers, including tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and osteoprotegerin, decreased in patients practicing more physical activity. High levels of physical activity are related to a healthier lifestyle, characterized by high adherence to the Mediterranean diet, decreased depressive behavior, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status in older people with metabolic syndrome.
circAMN1-Mediated Ferroptosis Regulates the Expulsion of Placenta in Trophoblast Cells
Authors: Lv Chen , Guo Lusha , Wang Yue , Li Zongshuai , Zhao Xingxu , Zhang Yong
Published: April 2024

After delivery, the death of trophoblast cells can promote the expulsion of the placenta. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent programmed cell death, is involved in mammalian development. Circular RNAs are associated with placental development; however, it is unclear whether circular RNAs regulate the expulsion of fetal membranes through ferroptosis. The gene expression profiles in the tail vein blood of Holstein cows with normal and retained placentas were investigated using RNA sequencing and a GSE214588 dataset. circAMN1 and SLC39A8 expression was significantly downregulated in the blood of cows with a retained placenta, whereas miR-205_R-1 expression was significantly upregulated. We validated erastin-induced ferroptosis in trophoblast cells. Transfection with si-circAMN1 and miR-205_R-1 mimic reduced intracellular total iron, Fe2+, and glutathione disulfide levels; increased intracellular glutathione levels and glutathione/glutathione disulfide; and enhanced cell viability in these cells. In contrast, transfection with pcDNA3.1 circAMN1 and an miR-205_R-1 inhibitor promoted ferroptosis. As an miR-205_R-1 sponge, circAMN1 regulated the expression of SLC39A8 to control erastin-induced ferroptosis and regulated the proliferation, invasion, and migration of trophoblast cells. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for studying the mechanism by which programmed cell death regulates fetal membrane expulsion and indicate its potential as a therapeutic target for placenta retention.
Impact of Maternal Environment and Inflammation on Fetal Neurodevelopment
Authors: Lubrano Chiara , Parisi Francesca , Cetin Irene
Published: April 2024

During intrauterine life, external stimuli including maternal nutrition, lifestyle, socioeconomic conditions, anxiety, stress, and air pollution can significantly impact fetal development. The human brain structures begin to form in the early weeks of gestation and continue to grow and mature throughout pregnancy. This review aims to assess, based on the latest research, the impact of environmental factors on fetal and neonatal brain development, showing that oxidative stress and inflammation are implied as a common factor for most of the stressors. Environmental insults can induce a maternal inflammatory state and modify nutrient supply to the fetus, possibly through epigenetic mechanisms, leading to significant consequences for brain morphogenesis and neurological outcomes. These risk factors are often synergic and mutually reinforcing. Fetal growth restriction and preterm birth represent paradigms of intrauterine reduced nutrient supply and inflammation, respectively. These mechanisms can lead to an increase in free radicals and, consequently, oxidative stress, with well-known adverse effects on the offspring’s neurodevelopment. Therefore, a healthy intrauterine environment is a critical factor in supporting normal fetal brain development. Hence, healthcare professionals and clinicians should implement effective interventions to prevent and reduce modifiable risk factors associated with an increased inflammatory state and decreased nutrient supply during pregnancy.
Impact of Prolonged Sitting Interruption on Blood Glucose, Insulin and Triacylglycerol in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dong Yelei , Pan Yang , Zhang Xianliang , He Qiang , Chen Si , Du Litao , Yin Shuting
Published: April 2024

Background: Physical activity (PA) and/or exercise improves postprandial cardiometabolic risk markers; however, the optimal exercise intensity, frequency, and dose remain unclear. We aimed to (1) compare the acute metabolic effects of interrupted prolonged sitting with PA bouts of different frequencies and durations on blood glucose, insulin, and triacylglycerol responses, and (2) compare the effects of the different types and different times of PA breaks on these measures. Methods: A literature search was carried out using four databases. Network meta-analysis (NMA) and paired meta-analysis were performed to estimate the total standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Results: According to the NMA, compared to prolonged sitting, every 30 min interruption had the highest probability (SUCRA) of being the best intervention for improving blood glucose (SUCRA = 81.8%, SMD = −1.18, 95%CI: −1.72, −0.64) and insulin (SUCRA = 77.5%, SMD = −0.98, 95%CI: −1.36, −0.60). Additionally, every 20 min interruption also significantly lowered blood glucose (SMD = −0.89, 95%CI: −1.52, −0.27) and insulin (SMD = −0.94, 95%CI: −1.41, −0.46). Pairwise meta-analysis suggested that frequent breaks by light-intensity PA significantly lowered glucose (SMD = −1.45, 95%CI: −2.32, −0.57) and insulin (SMD = −1.04, 95%CI: −1.53, −0.55). The same was found for frequent breaks by moderate-to-vigorous PA, which also significantly lowered glucose (SMD = −0.6, 95%CI: −0.83, −0.37) and insulin (SMD = −0.53, 95%CI: −0.73, −0.32). Conclusions: According to the NMA, performing short bouts of PA every 30 min is the most effective prolonged sitting intervention for improving blood glucose and insulin. More evidence is needed to determine the optimal type and time of PA breaks for braking sedentary sitting. PROSPERO Registration: CRD42022340036.
Double Unloading Gas Control Technology for Fracturing Soft Coal Seams in Overlying Key Strata
Authors: Xie Jun , Li Feng , Yan Zhengxu , Huo Jingjing
Published: April 2024

Based on the ‘three highs and one low’ geological conditions of high gas pressure, high gas content, high ground stress, and low permeability in deep coal seams, this study proposes a dual method of hydraulic fracturing of key layers of overlying rock layers combined with pre-extraction of gas via large-diameter caving boreholes. The aim is to unload and dissipate the coal seam by fracturing the overlying key strata, allowing the stress and energy from the excavation working face to be transmitted and transferred to the deep coal seam. Additionally, large-diameter drilling effectively increases the effective drainage radius of the coal seam, resulting in a shorter extraction time. To validate this approach, a fracturing model and a gas extraction model were established for the key layers of the overlying rock layer using the engineering background of the 15,111 excavation working face of a mine in Shanxi. FLAC3D software v.6.0 was utilized to simulate the stress and energy changes of the coal seam before and after fracturing of the key layers, while COMSOL software v.6.0 was used to analyze the gas migration conditions, permeability, and effective drainage radius changes before and after drilling and caving drilling. The findings, combined with the engineering test results, conclude that key strata fracturing combined with large-diameter caving can effectively increase the permeability of coal seams and improve gas extraction. This study serves as a theoretical basis for guiding the design of gas drainage technology under the effects of coal seam pressure relief and permeability enhancement.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Does Not Track Forearm Blood Flow during Venous Occlusion Plethysmography
Authors: Perlet Michael R. , Herren Jeremy T. , Traylor Miranda K. , Bailey Matthew D. , Keller Joshua L.
Published: April 2024

Background: Venous occlusion plethysmography (VOP) non-invasively measures forearm blood flow (FBF), whereas near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) assesses skeletal muscle oxygenation. Using these techniques has revealed sex differences in microvascular responses. However, it is not clear if NIRS and VOP results are interchangeable under various conditions like reactive hyperemia (RH). Our purpose was to evaluate sex-specific associations between FBF and NIRS-derived parameters: oxygenated hemoglobin, deoxygenated hemoglobin, total hemoglobin, and hemoglobin difference (O2Hb, HHb, tHb, and HbDiff). Methods: In total, 29 adults (15 men) participated, and a strain-gauge was placed on the forearm for VOP and a NIRS device was distally attached. Slopes for FBF and NIRS parameters were quantified during venous occlusion intervals at rest and during RH. Pearson’s correlations were assessed between VOP and NIRS slopes. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC2,1) examined the sex-specific consistency of the slopes at rest. p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: During RH, FBF was not correlated with O2Hb (r = −0.126), HHb (r = 0.228), tHb (r = 0.061), or HbDiff (r = 0.046). Seemingly, there were no sex differences. Resting FBF and NIRS-derived variables, except for HbDiff, displayed suitable consistency as suggested by the reliability results (ICC2,1 = 0.115–0.577). Conclusions: The NIRS values collected did not match the strain-gauge slopes. Individuals should practice caution when generating blood flow inferences from NIRS-based data during VOP.
Connection-Aware Heuristics for Scheduling and Distributing Jobs under Dynamic Dew Computing Environments
Authors: Sanabria Pablo , Montoya Sebastián , Neyem Andrés , Toro Icarte Rodrigo , Hirsch Matías , Mateos Cristian
Published: April 2024

Due to the widespread use of mobile and IoT devices, coupled with their continually expanding processing capabilities, dew computing environments have become a significant focus for researchers. These environments enable resource-constrained devices to contribute computing power to a local network. One major challenge within these environments revolves around task scheduling, specifically determining the optimal distribution of jobs across the available devices in the network. This challenge becomes particularly pronounced in dynamic environments where network conditions constantly change. This work proposes integrating the “reliability” concept into cutting-edge human-design job distribution heuristics named ReleSEAS and RelBPA as a means of adapting to dynamic and ever-changing network conditions caused by nodes’ mobility. Additionally, we introduce a reinforcement learning (RL) approach, embedding both the notion of reliability and real-time network status into the RL agent. Our research rigorously contrasts our proposed algorithms’ throughput and job completion rates with their predecessors. Simulated results reveal a marked improvement in overall throughput, with our algorithms potentially boosting the environment’s performance. They also show a significant enhancement in job completion within dynamic environments compared to baseline findings. Moreover, when RL is applied, it surpasses the job completion rate of human-designed heuristics. Our study emphasizes the advantages of embedding inherent network characteristics into job distribution algorithms for dew computing. Such incorporation gives them a profound understanding of the network’s diverse resources. Consequently, this insight enables the algorithms to manage resources more adeptly and effectively.
Optimum Transplanting Date for Rape Forage and Grain Yields in the Ridge Culture Place Planting System on the Yangtze River Delta
Authors: Tao Yueyue , Li Dongmei , Yu Yiwen , Lu Changying , Huang Meng , Wang Haihou , Sun Hua
Published: April 2024

The ridge culture place planting system (RCPPS) is a promising technique for planting rapeseed that can promote the growth of rapeseed by late rice stubble, which has been widely adopted in the Yangtze River delta. To determine the optimum planting date for rape (Brassica napus L.) forage and grain yield in an intensive rice–rape rotation system, a field experiment was conducted with five transplantation dates (from 20 October to 30 November at 10 day intervals) in RCPPS. The forage/grain yield, nutrition, and growth parameters were analyzed. At podding, rape biomass yield was highest, and no significant differences were found among treatments. It was around 12.0% crude protein, 11.4% ether extract, 38.8% neutral detergent fiber, and 34.9% acid detergent fiber. In the treatments of 20 and 30 November, crude protein content increased and acid detergent fiber content decreased significantly. Compared with 20 October, the grain yield of rape transplanted in November decreased significantly by 17.2% to 22.5%. The grain yield was significantly correlated with the number of secondary branches, pods, and seeds. At the final flowering stage, rape transplanted in November had noticeably reduced leaf growth, rhizome width, and yield than 20 and 30 October. Overall, for multiple uses of rapeseed in the Yangtze River delta belt with RCPPS, it is optimal to plant in mid to late November for forage use with higher nutritional value, being coordinated with the previous rice crop, whereas late October is the appropriate planting time to obtain a higher grain yield.
Learning Ad Hoc Cooperation Policies from Limited Priors via Meta-Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Fang Qi , Zeng Junjie , Xu Haotian , Hu Yue , Yin Quanjun
Published: April 2024

When agents need to collaborate without previous coordination, the multi-agent cooperation problem transforms into an ad hoc teamwork (AHT) problem. Mainstream research on AHT is divided into type-based and type-free methods. The former depends on known teammate types to infer the current teammate type, while the latter does not require them at all. However, in many real-world applications, the complete absence and sufficient knowledge of known types are both impractical. Thus, this research focuses on the challenge of AHT with limited known types. To this end, this paper proposes a method called a Few typE-based Ad hoc Teamwork via meta-reinforcement learning (FEAT), which effectively adapts to teammates using a small set of known types within a single episode. FEAT enables agents to develop a highly adaptive policy through meta-reinforcement learning by employing limited priors about known types. It also utilizes this policy to generate a diverse type repository automatically. During the ad hoc cooperation, the agent can autonomously identify known teammate types followed by directly utilizing the pre-trained optimal cooperative policy or swiftly updating the meta policy to respond to teammates of unknown types. Comprehensive experiments in the pursuit domain validate the effectiveness of the algorithm and its components.
A Concise State-of-the-Art Review of Crack Monitoring Enabled by RFID Technology
Authors: Ran Sheng-Cai , Wang Qi-Ang , Wang Jun-Fang , Ni Yi-Qing , Guo Zhong-Xu , Luo Yang
Published: April 2024

Cracking is an important factor affecting the performance and life of large structures. In order to maximize personal safety and reduce costs, it is highly necessary to carry out research on crack monitoring technology. Sensors based on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) antennas have the advantages of wireless and low cost, which makes them highly competitive in the field of structure health monitoring (SHM). Thus, this study systematically summarizes the research progress of crack monitoring based on RFID technology in recent years. Firstly, this study introduces the causes of cracks and the traditional monitoring methods. Further, this study summarizes several main RFID-based crack monitoring and detection methods, including crack monitoring based on chipless RFID technology, passive RFID technology, and ultra-high-frequency (UHF) RFID technology, including the implementation methods, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of those technologies. In addition, for RFID-based crack monitoring applications, the two most commonly used materials are concrete materials and metal materials, which are also illustrated in detail. In general, this study can provide technical support and a theoretical basis for crack monitoring and detection to ensure the safety of engineering structures.
Multi-Robot Exploration Employing Harmonic Map Transformations
Authors: Blounas Taxiarchis-Foivos , Bechlioulis Charalampos P.
Published: April 2024

Robot Exploration can be used to autonomously map an area or conduct search missions in remote or hazardous environments. Using multiple robots to perform this task can improve efficiency for time-critical applications. In this work, a distributed method for multi-robot exploration using a Harmonic Map Transformation (HMT) is presented. We employ SLAM to construct a map of the unknown area and utilize map merging to share terrain information amongst robots. Then, a frontier allocation strategy is proposed to increase efficiency. The HMT is used to safely navigate the robots to the frontiers until the exploration task is complete. We validate the efficacy of the proposed strategy via tests in simulated and real-world environments. Our method is compared to other recent schemes for multi-robot exploration and is shown to outperform them in terms of total path distance.
Research on Obstacle Avoidance Replanning and Trajectory Tracking Control Driverless Ferry Vehicles
Authors: Li Xiang , Li Gang , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to solve the problem that is the frequent switching between the acceleration and braking modes of the driverless ferry vehicle, affecting the comfort and stability of speed control. The driverless ferry vehicle encounters unknown obstacles on the road that affect the normal planning and tracking control of the ferry vehicle and finally lead to the problem that the driverless ferry vehicle cannot drive normally. First of all, in the longitudinal control, the fuzzy PID control algorithm was utilized to produce the fuzzy PID acceleration controller by taking into account the difference between the actual and expected speeds and choosing the triangular membership function. According to the relationship between the brake oil pressure and brake torque, the brake controller was designed. The acceleration/braking switching module with acceleration tolerance zone was added to the longitudinal controller, and the acceleration/braking mode-switching controller was designed. Secondly, in the lateral control, the tire cornering stiffness was analyzed, an MPC controller with a planning module was designed, and a lateral motion controller with an obstacle avoidance replanning function was proposed. Finally, according to the prediction time domain of different planning modules corresponding to different speeds, a coordinated control strategy of horizontal and longitudinal motion was proposed by using a real-time speed adjustment planning module to predict the time domain. Through the joint simulation analysis of MATLAB and CarSim, the results show that the driving stability of the ferry vehicle was significantly improved, and the longitudinal speed error of the ferry vehicle was reduced by 43.59%. The ferry’s avoidance of obstacles and tracking of reference trajectories were significantly improved, so that the tracking error can be reduced by 61.11%.