bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Southern Bug River: water security and climate changes perspectives for post-war city of Mykolaiv, Ukraine
Authors: Snizhko Sergiy , Didovets Iulii , Shevchenko Olga , Yatsiuk Myhailo , Hattermann Fred Fokko , Bronstert Axel
Published: October 2024

This article focuses on water security in Mykolaiv, a city of 0.5 million inhabitants in southern Ukraine, in the situation of scarcity of usable water resources caused by climate change and military operations. This problem arose after the Dnipro-Mykolaiv water pipeline was destroyed in April 2022 as a result of military operations and the supply of drinking water to the city was cut off. To ensure that the city’s population has constant access to sufficient water of acceptable quality, a search for alternative water sources and a climate risk assessment were carried out for the new municipal water supply system from the Southern Bug River. The possible change in flow and its intra-annual distribution under the influence of climate change was modeled using the WaterGAP2 hydrological model and climate projections under the SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-P8.5 scenarios. It was found that under the SSP1-2.6 scenario, the reduction in river flow will be insignificant (up to a maximum of 14% in the far future) and there will be no restrictions on the city’s water supply from this section of the river in the near (2021-2050) and far (2051-2080) period. The maximum water withdrawal for municipal water supply and the minimum environmental flow will reach their maximum value only in August (56% of the projected flow), which is not critical. Under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, in the long-term perspective of 2051-2080, the largest decrease in runoff will occur from May to October, and the water withdrawal will increase to 40-79% of the projected flow. The use of the research results not only in water management, but also in municipal administration, and their dissemination in territorial communities will contribute to the successful adaptation of socio-economic and environmental processes in the region and can bring successful benefits not only to the economy, but also to communities.
The solar wind heavy ion composition in the ascending phases of the solar cycles 23 and 25
Authors: Carpenter D. T. , Lepri S. T. , Zhao L. , Dewey R. M. , Raines J. M. , Livi S. , Galvin A. B. , Kistler L. M.
Published: October 2024

The approximately 11-year solar cycle has been shown to impact the heavy ion composition of the solar wind, even when accounting for streams of differing speeds; however, the heavy ion composition observed between the same specific phases of a past solar cycle and the current cycle has rarely, if ever, been compared. Here, we compare the heavy ion composition of the solar wind, as measured in situ during the solar cycle 23 and 25 ascending phases. We examine the mean iron and oxygen charge state composition and the O7+/O6+ ratio in multiple ranges of associated bulk wind speeds. Then, we compare the iron and oxygen charge state composition and relative abundance of iron to oxygen in the traditionally defined fast and slow solar wind. Finally, to determine the impact of individual ion contributions on the solar wind iron abundance, we examine individual ratios of iron and oxygen ions. Although the charge state composition remained broadly similar between these two ascending phases, both the O7+/O6+ ratio and iron fractionation in fast-speed streams were higher in the solar cycle 25 ascending phase than they were during the solar cycle 23 ascending phase, suggesting that equatorial coronal hole fields more frequently reconnected with helmet streamers or active regions in the latter of the two ascending phases; however, more work will need to be done to connect these observations back to their coronal origins. The individual ion ratios used in this work provided a spectrum to analyze the aggregate elemental abundances, and this work, as a whole, is an important step in determining how conditions in the corona may vary between solar cycles between the same phases.
Antibiotic resistant bacteria in goat meat and hygienic practices among retail stores in Nashville, Tennessee
Authors: Owusu Moses , Basnet Ashesh , Kilonzo-Nthenge Agnes
Published: October 2024

This study explores into the levels of coliform contamination, prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and the hygienic practices in goat meat retail stores. Goat meat from 10 retail stores was analyzed for E. coli, Salmonella, and S. aureus using serological and PCR methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Data on hygienic practices were collected through a structured observational questionnaire. Pearson’s correlation analysis was also employed to establish the relationship between hygienic practices and coliform loads. The average coliform loads on goat meat ranged between 0.88–5.04 log10 cfu/g. Our results revealed that 52% of examined goat meat was deemed unacceptable (>3.30 log10 CFU/g). The overall level of good meat handling practices among meat handlers in our study was 45.75%. Further, the study establishes a significant correlation between the level of food safety practices and coliform load. Hence, stores with higher hygienic practice scores exhibited lower coliform loads. The prevalence of S. aureus (44%) in goat meat was significantly higher (p < 0.05) as compared to E. coli (29%), and Salmonella spp. (20%). E. coli isolates displayed the highest resistance to penicillin (31.2%), Salmonella spp. to oxytetracycline (13.9%), and S. aureus to ampicillin (29.0%). Resistance was observed across selected antibiotic classes, particularly in beta-lactams and tetracyclines, with penicillin (78.5%) and oxytetracycline (64.5%) exhibiting notable resistance. Cephalosporin resistance was noted, with 48.4 and 33.3% of isolates showing resistance to cephalothin and cefpodoxime, respectively. Bacterial isolates also demonstrated resistance to phenicol antibiotics, including chloramphenicol (9.7%) and florfenicol (16.1%), respectively. Approximately 44.1% of bacterial isolates displayed multidrug resistance and MAR index ranged from 0.25 to 0.75. The study’s findings reveal heightened levels of coliform contamination, the presence of pathogenic and multidrug-resistant bacteria in goat meat, and suboptimal meat handling practices in retail stores. The significance of improving food safety practices in retail settings is emphasized to ensure the safety of goat meat, a matter of increasing importance due to its growing demand globally.
The effect of composite edible coatings on the postharvest quality of “Hass” avocado fruit treated at different harvest maturities
Authors: Ngubane Sibonelo , Tesfay Samson Z. , Magwaza Lembe S. , Mditshwa Asanda
Published: October 2024

Edible coatings play a critical role in reducing postharvest losses during storage and supply chain of horticultural commodities. The present study evaluated the efficacy of different concentrations of moringa leaf extract (MLE) combined with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) edible coating in preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of “Hass” avocado. Fruit were harvested at different stages of maturity and evaluated by dry matter content. Different concentrations of moringa (8 and 16%) extracted with chilled ethanol (100%) and functionalized with CMC (5%), were used to treat the fruit. Treated fruit were then stored at 5.5 ± 1°C and 90 ± 5% RH for 28 days plus an additional 7 days at 23°C. The changes in physicochemical and biochemical fruit attributes were evaluated at weekly intervals. The application of moringa and CMC-based edible coatings preserved the phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity of “Hass” avocado. The treatments significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the loss of weight and firmness. Furthermore, treated fruits were found to have a delayed color change and reduction in sugar concentration, particularly mannoheptulose, compared to the control treatment. Therefore, edible coatings prepared by combining CMC and MLE could be the best alternative for substituting the currently used health-compromising synthetic chemicals.
How Finance and Firms Can Accelerate the Green Transition
Authors: De Haas Ralph
Published: October 2024

Access to bank credit and the quality of firms’ management both play important roles in determining how much businesses invest in energy efficiency and pollution reduction. While credit constraints can hinder firms’ ability to invest in capitalintensive clean technologies, such as machinery and vehicle upgrades, bad management practices often also pose a significant barrier. Firms with better green management practices – as measured by their environmental objectives, targets and monitoring systems – are more likely to invest in a wide range of green projects, from waste reduction and recycling to energy and water management. Based on a comprehensive survey of the recent literature, this article argues that policies aimed at facilitating access to green finance should be combined with initiatives to help business leaders become better green managers.
New Evidence of the Impact of Innovative Capacity on Firm Employment
Authors: López Héctor , Yagüe-Perales Rosa , March-Chordá Isidre
Published: October 2024

The business behavior towards innovation and its impact on the creation of new jobs of 113 firms in the Valencian Community (Spain) were analyzed between 2014 and 2020. The sample included manufacturing, services and trading enterprises; technological and non-technological companies; micro-, small, medium, and large enterprises; and locations across the entire geographical extent of the Valencian Community. The firms were divided into quartiles based on their level of employment growth, linearly correlating this variable with 14 innovation indicators for each of the resulting four groups, reflecting the innovative capacity of these firms. It was found that the factor linked to innovation capacity that most favors or drives business employment creation is co-operation with other companies, as it had a direct and significant relationship with the two highest growth groups (quartiles 4 and 3), with no negative relationship with either of the two lower growth groups (quartiles 2 and 1). This suggests that the public administration should increase efforts to create spaces for the exchange of ideas between companies and organizations to reduce unemployment levels. Overall, this study provides new insights into the subject, and its findings lead to the conclusion that firms with higher innovative capacity create more jobs.
Estimation of Dry Matter Yield in Mediterranean Pastures: Comparative Study between Rising Plate Meter and Grassmaster II Probe
Authors: Serrano João , Franco Júlio , Shahidian Shakib , Moral Francisco J.
Published: October 2024

This study evaluates two expedient electronic sensors, a rising plate meter (RPM) and a “Grassmaster II” capacitance probe (GMII), to estimate pasture dry matter (DM, in kg ha−1). The sampling process consisted of sensor measurements, followed by pasture collection and a laboratory reference analysis. In this comparative study, carried out throughout the 2023/2024 pasture growing season, a total of 288 pasture samples were collected in two phases (calibration and validation). The calibration phase (n = 144) consisted of measurements on three dates (6 December 2023, 29 February and 10 May 2024) in 48 georeferenced sampling areas of the experimental field “Eco-SPAA” (“MG” field), located at Mitra farm (Évora, Portugal). This pasture is a permanent mixture of various botanical species (grasses, legumes, and others) grazed by sheep, and is representative of biodiverse dryland pastures. The validation phase (n = 144) was carried out between December 2023 and April 2024 in 18 field tests (each with eight pasture samples), in three types of representative pastures: the same mixture for grazing (“MG” field), a commercial and annual mixture for cutting (mowing) and conservation (“MM” field), and legumes for grazing (“LG” field). The best estimation model for DM was obtained based on measurements carried out in February in the case of the GMII probe (R2 = 0.61) and December 2023 and February 2024 in the case of RPM (R2 = 0.76). The estimation decreased very significantly for both sensors based on measurements carried out in May (spring). The validation phase showed greater accuracy (less RMSE) in “MG” field tests (RMSE of 735.4 kg ha−1 with GMII and 512.3 kg ha−1 with the RPM). The results open perspectives for other works that would allow the testing, calibration, and validation of these electronic sensors in a wider range of pasture production conditions, in order to improve their accuracy as decision-making support tools in pasture management.
Interactions between Weeds, Pathogen Symptoms and Winter Rapeseed Stand Structure
Authors: Vykydalová Lucie , Barroso Petra Martínez , Děkanovský Igor , Neoralová Mária , Lumbantobing Yentriani Rumeta , Winkler Jan
Published: October 2024

Rapeseed, weeds, and pathogens interact with each other. However, these interactions are not well understood. The aim of our work was to describe the relationships between weed vegetation and pathogen manifestations in rapeseed stands. Results from the four seasons show that different rapeseed stand structures produce different weed and pathogen responses. Eighteen weed species were identified in the rapeseed stands. The selected characteristics of rapeseed stands, pathogens, and weed manifestations were evaluated using redundancy analysis. Rapeseed stands with the highest levels of pathogens present (Alternaria brassiceae (Berk.) Sacc., Botrytis cinerea (De Bary) Whetzel, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary, Verticilium longisporum (C.Stark) Karapapa, Bainbr & Heale) had the lowest seed yield. There, the weeds Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop., Tripleurospermum inodorum (L.) Sch. Bip., Sonchus arvensis L. were more abundant in dense stands, and Phoma lingam (telomorph: Leptosphaeria maculans Ces. & De Not.) was more common. Mutual positive interactions may also include the relationship between weed species of the Asteraceae family and increased manifestations of Phoma lingam. A similar relationship can be expected for the weeds Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik., Descurainia sophia (L.) Prantl and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum symptoms.
Investigating the IgM and IgG B Cell Receptor Repertoires and Expression of Ultralong Complementarity Determining Region 3 in Colostrum and Blood from Holstein-Friesian Cows at Calving
Authors: Altvater-Hughes Tess E. , Hodgins Harold P. , Hodgins Douglas C. , Bauman Cathy A. , Paibomesai Marlene A. , Mallard Bonnie A.
Published: October 2024

In cattle, colostral maternal immunoglobulins and lymphocytes transfer across the neonate’s intestinal epithelium to provide protection against pathogens. This study aimed to compare repertoires of B cell populations in blood and colostrum in cows for the first time, with an emphasis on ultralong complementarity determining region 3 (CDR3, ≥40 amino acids). Blood mononuclear cells (BMCs, n= 7) and colostral cells (n = 7) were isolated from Holstein-Friesian dairy cows. Magnetic-activated cell sorting was used to capture IgM and IgG B cells from BMCs. Colostral cells were harvested by centrifugation. RNA was extracted and cDNA was produced; IgM and IgG transcripts were amplified using polymerase chain reactions. Amplicons were sequenced using the Nanopore Native barcoding kit 24 V14 and MinION with R10.4 flow cells. In colostrum, there was a significantly greater percentage of IgM B cells with ultralong CDR3s (8.09% ± 1.73 standard error of the mean) compared to blood (4.22% ± 0.70, p = 0.05). There was a significantly greater percentage of IgG B cells in colostrum with ultralong CDR3s (12.98% ± 1.98) compared to blood (6.61% ± 1.11, p = 0.05). A higher percentage of IgM and IgG B cells with ultralong CDR3s in colostrum may be indicative of a potential role in protecting the neonate.
Four New Sequence Types and Molecular Characteristics of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Strains from Foods in Thailand
Authors: Thadtapong Nalumon , Chaturongakul Soraya , Tangphatsornruang Sithichoke , Sonthirod Chutima , Ngamwongsatit Natharin , Aunpad Ratchaneewan
Published: October 2024

The presence of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in food is a serious and persistent problem worldwide. In this study, 68 E. coli strains isolated from Thai food samples were characterized. Based on antibiotic susceptibility assays, 31 of these isolates (45.59%) showed multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index values > 0.2, indicating high exposure to antibiotics. Among these, strain CM24E showed the highest resistance (it was resistant to ten antibiotics, including colistin and imipenem). Based on genome sequencing, we identified four isolates (namely, CF25E, EF37E, NM10E1, and SF50E) with novel Achtman-scheme multi-locus sequence types (STs) (ST14859, ST14866, ST14753, and ST14869, respectively). Clermont phylogrouping was used to subtype the 68 researched isolates into five Clermont types, mainly A (51.47%) and B1 (41.18%). The blaEC gene was found only in Clermont type A, while the blaEC-13 gene was predominant in Clermont type B1. A correlation between genotypes and phenotypes was found only in Clermont type B1, which showed a strong positive correlation between the presence of an afa operon and yersiniabactin-producing gene clusters with the colistin resistance phenotype. Strain SM47E1, of Clermont type B2, carried the highest number of predicted virulence genes. In summary, this study demonstrates the pressing problems posed by the prevalence and potential transmission of antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes in the food matrix.
The Diverse Activities and Mechanisms of the Acylphloroglucinol Antibiotic Rhodomyrtone: Antibacterial Activity and Beyond
Authors: Rani Rupa , Marinho Righetto Gabriela , Schäfer Ann-Britt , Wenzel Michaela
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The rose myrtle Rhodomyrtus tomentosa is a medicinal plant used in traditional Asian medicine. The active compound in R. tomentosa leaf extracts is rhodomyrtone, a chiral acylphloroglucinol. Rhodomyrtone exhibits an impressive breadth of activities, including antibacterial, antiviral, antiplasmodial, immunomodulatory, and anticancer properties. Its antibacterial properties have been extensively studied. Methods: We performed a comprehensive literature review on rhodomyrtone and summarized the current knowledge about this promising acylphloroglucinol antibiotic and its diverse functions in this review. Results: Rhodomyrtone shows nano to micromolar activities against a broad range of Gram-positive pathogens, including multidrug-resistant clinical isolates, and possesses a unique mechanism of action. It increases membrane fluidity and creates hyperfluid domains that attract membrane proteins prior to forming large membrane vesicles, effectively acting as a membrane protein trap. This mechanism affects a multitude of cellular processes, including cell division and cell wall synthesis. Additionally, rhodomyrtone reduces the expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-17A, IL1β, and IL8. Generally showing low toxicity against mammalian cells, rhodomyrtone does inhibit the proliferation of cancer cell lines, such as epidermal carcinoma cells. The primary mechanism behind this activity appears to be the downregulation of adhesion kinases and growth factors. Furthermore, rhodomyrtone has shown antioxidant activity and displays cognitive effects, such as decreasing depressive symptoms in mice. Conclusions: Rhodomyrtone shows great promise as therapeutic agent, mostly for antibacterial but also for diverse other applications. Yet, bottlenecks such as resistance development and a better understanding of mammalian cell toxictiy demand careful assessment.
Synthesis and Biological Activity Assessment of 2-Styrylbenzothiazoles as Potential Multifunctional Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Barbari Riccardo , Bruggink Vera , Hofstetter Robert Klaus , Tupini Chiara , Fagnani Sofia , Baldini Erika , Durini Elisa , Lampronti Ilaria , Vertuani Silvia , Baldisserotto Anna , Werz Oliver , Manfredini Stefano
Published: October 2024

A current trend in healthcare research is to discover multifunctional compounds, able to interact with multiple biological targets, in order to simplify multi-drug therapies and improve patient compliance. The aim of this work was to outline the growing demand for innovative multifunctional compounds, achieved through the synthesis, characterisation and SAR evaluation of a series of 2-styrylbenzothiazole derivatives. The six synthesised compounds were studied for their potential as photoprotective, antioxidant, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory agents. In order to profile antioxidant activity against various radical species, in vitro DPPH, FRAP and ORAC assays were performed. UV-filtering activity was studied, first in solution and then in formulation (standard O/W sunscreen containing 3% synthesised molecules) before and after irradiation. Compound BZTst6 proved to be photostable, suitable for broad-spectrum criteria, and is an excellent UVA filter. In terms of antioxidant activity, only compound BZTst4 can be considered a promising candidate, due to the potential of the catechol moiety. Both also showed exceptional inhibitory action against the pro-inflammatory enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (LO), with IC50 values in the sub-micromolar range in both activated neutrophils and under cell-free conditions. The results showed that the compounds under investigation are suitable for multifunctional application purposes, underlining the importance of their chemical scaffolding in terms of different biological behaviours.
LLM Based Chatbot for Farm-to-Fork Blockchain Traceability Platform
Authors: Benzinho José , Ferreira João , Batista Joel , Pereira Leandro , Maximiano Marisa , Távora Vítor , Gomes Ricardo , Remédios Orlando
Published: October 2024

Blockchain technology has been used with great effect in farm-to-fork traceability projects. However, this technology has a steep learning curve when it comes to its user interface. To minimize this difficulty, we created a solution based on a Large Language Model (LLM) conversational agent. Our implementation, starting with an existing knowledge base that is prepared and processed with an embedding model to be stored in a vector database, follows a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) approach. Other non-textual media like images and videos are aggregated with the embeddings to enrich the user experience. User queries are combined with a proximity search in the vector database and feed into an LLM that considers the conversation history with the user in its replies. Given the asynchronous nature of these models, we implemented a similarly asynchronous scheme using Server-Sent Events that deliver the models’ replies to a UI that supports multimodal media types such as images and videos by providing the visualization of these resources. The end solution allows users to interact with advanced technologies using a natural language interface; this in turn empowers food traceability projects to overcome their natural difficulty in engaging early adopters.
Assessment of Water Consumption Behavior in Single Households Using Smart Water Meters
Authors: Obaid Samim , Hosoi Kyotaro , Ngoc Nguyen Minh , Inoue Takanobu , Yokota Kuriko
Published: October 2024

Smart meters monitor hourly water consumption patterns while reducing the cost and inconvenience of traditional meters. This study comprehensively analyzes 1871 households that previously used traditional meters from the distribution point to the distribution area. All the households were equipped with smart meters and the data collected were used for analysis. On the basis of the total estimated water consumption, 227 households were classified as single households. These households were further classified into single-worker and -nonworker households. This study analyzed smart meter data to evaluate the timings and amounts of water consumption peaks. The results indicate that worker households peaked at 8:00, with 29 L/h of consumption on weekdays, and peaked again on evenings at 20:00–21:00, averaging 32 L/h. For nonworker households, the peak occurred at 9:00, with 20 L/h, with no major changes in the afternoon, and a second peak occurred at 19:00–20:00 in evening, with an average of 19 L/h. Moreover, worker households peaked at 8:00 and 20:00 on weekdays, and at 9:00 and 19:00 on weekends. It was revealed that worker households consume 10% more on weekends than on weekdays, and 262% more from 13:00 to 16:00. These findings may assist in water supply planning by supporting distribution schedules on the basis of peak household consumption, leading to more helpful resource management.
Designing and Implementing a Public Urban Transport Scheduling System Based on Artificial Intelligence for Smart Cities
Authors: Rosca Cosmina-Mihaela , Stancu Adrian , Neculaiu Cosmin-Florinel , Gortoescu Ionuț-Adrian
Published: October 2024

Many countries encourage their populations to use public urban transport to decrease pollution and traffic congestion. However, this can generate overcrowded routes at certain times and low economic efficiency for public urban transport companies when buses carry few passengers. This article proposes a Public Urban Transport Scheduling System (PUTSS) algorithm for allocating a public urban transport fleet based on the number of passengers waiting for a bus and considering the efficiency of public urban transport companies. The PUTSS algorithm integrates artificial intelligence (AI) methods to identify the number of people waiting at each station through real-time image acquisition. The technique presented is Azure Computer Vision. In a case study, the accuracy of correctly identifying the number of persons in an image was computed using the Microsoft Azure Computer Vision service. The proposed PUTSS algorithm also uses Google Maps Service for congestion-level identification. Employing these modern tools in the algorithm makes improving public urban transport services possible. The algorithm is integrated into a software application developed in C#, simulating a real-world scenario involving two public urban transport vehicles. The global accuracy rate of 89.81% demonstrates the practical applicability of the software product.
Performance, Meat Quality and Gene Expression of Grazing Lambs Supplemented with Macadamia Oil and Vitamin E
Authors: Dias Junior Paulo C. G. , dos Santos Isabela J. , Gallo Sarita B. , Alvarenga Tharcilla I. R. C. , Alvarenga Flavio A. P. , Garcia Adriana M. , Pereira Idalmo G. , Alves Nadja G. , Furusho-Garcia Iraides F.
Published: October 2024

Macadamia oil has high concentrations of oleic and palmitoleic fatty acids, which can increase tissue sensitivity to insulin, improving glucose absorption efficiency, and reducing lipogenesis through gene modulation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of macadamia oil associated with vitamin E supplementation on performance, blood parameters, meat quality and sensory characteristics, meat fatty acid profile, and expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism in grazing lambs. The experimental treatments were control diet (Control), Control + 0.1% of body weight of macadamia oil (MO), MO + 745 IU of vitamin E/dry matter (MOVE). Macadamia oil improved feed efficiency, reflecting a lower dry matter intake, as the average daily weight gain did not differ from Control. Meat quality parameters were not affected by macadamia oil or vitamin E supplementation. Supplementation with macadamia oil improved meat appearance, flavor, and overall liking. Supplementation with macadamia oil provided a higher proportion of C18:3 n3 and a lower proportion of CLA. The expression of SREBP-1c, PPAR-α, SCD1, and ELOVL6 genes were not modified with the supplementation of macadamia oil and vitamin E. In conclusion, supplementation with macadamia oil improves feed efficiency and meat quality; and the inclusion of 745 IU of vitamin E/kg of dry matter for grazing lambs reduces 36% of lipid oxidation of the meat.
An Algorithm for Predicting Vehicle Behavior in High-Speed Scenes Using Visual and Dynamic Graphical Neural Network Inference
Authors: Li Menghao , Liu Miao , Zhang Weiwei , Guo Wenfeng , Chen Enqing , Hu Chunguang , Zhang Maomao
Published: October 2024

Accidents caused by vehicles changing lanes occur frequently on highways. Moreover, frequent lane changes can severely impact traffic flow during peak commuting hours and on busy roads. A novel framework based on a multi-relational graph convolutional network (MR-GCN) is herein proposed to address these challenges. First, a dynamic multilevel relational graph was designed to describe interactions between vehicles and road objects at different spatio-temporal granularities, with real-time updates to edge weights to enhance understanding of complex traffic scenarios. Second, an improved spatio-temporal interaction graph generation method was introduced, focusing on spatio-temporal variations and capturing complex interaction patterns to enhance prediction accuracy and adaptability. Finally, by integrating a dynamic multi-relational graph convolutional network (DMR-GCN) with dynamic scene sensing and interaction learning mechanisms, the framework enables real-time updates of complex vehicle relationships, thereby improving behavior prediction’s accuracy and real-time performance. Experimental validation on multiple benchmark datasets, including KITTI, Apollo, and Indian, showed that our algorithmic framework achieves significant performance improvements in vehicle behavior prediction tasks, with Map, Recall, and F1 scores reaching 90%, 88%, and 89%, respectively, outperforming existing algorithms. Additionally, the model achieved a Map of 91%, a Recall of 89%, and an F1 score of 90% under congested road conditions in a self-collected high-speed traffic scenario dataset, further demonstrating its robustness and adaptability in high-speed traffic conditions. These results show that the proposed model is highly practical and stable in real-world applications such as traffic control systems and self-driving vehicles, providing strong support for efficient vehicle behavior prediction.
Basic Chemical Composition, Selected Polyphenolic Profile and Antioxidant Activity in Various Types of Currant (Ribes spp.) Fruits
Authors: Kierońska Ewelina , Skoczylas Joanna , Dziadek Kinga , Pomietło Urszula , Piątkowska Ewa , Kopeć Aneta
Published: October 2024

Black currants are more popular and consumed more often than red and white ones. These fruits are low in calories, and they are recognised as a rich source of vitamin C. It can be hypothesised that currant fruits, depending on the colour, may differ in the profile of polyphenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and basic composition. The objective of this study was to determine the basic chemical composition, selected polyphenolic compound profile and antioxidant activity of black, red and white currant fruits collected over two years. Red currant fruits had a higher protein content, than black currant fruits, which had the lowest. The highest fat content was found in white currants and the lowest in black currants. The black currant variety was the richest in total carbohydrates. The highest amount of total polyphenols was found in black currant fruits and the lowest in red currant fruits. In all types of currant fruit, catechin was the major phenolic compound. However it showed the highest difference between types of currants. It was observed that red currant fruits had the highest antioxidant activity when tested with the ABTS+ and FRAP methods, and the lowest was found in white currant fruits. The highest antioxidant activity, tested by the FRAP method, occurred in black currant fruits, while the lowest was observed in white currant fruits.
Recent Applications of Explainable AI (XAI): A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Saarela Mirka , Podgorelec Vili
Published: October 2024

This systematic literature review employs the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to investigate recent applications of explainable AI (XAI) over the past three years. From an initial pool of 664 articles identified through the Web of Science database, 512 peer-reviewed journal articles met the inclusion criteria—namely, being recent, high-quality XAI application articles published in English—and were analyzed in detail. Both qualitative and quantitative statistical techniques were used to analyze the identified articles: qualitatively by summarizing the characteristics of the included studies based on predefined codes, and quantitatively through statistical analysis of the data. These articles were categorized according to their application domains, techniques, and evaluation methods. Health-related applications were particularly prevalent, with a strong focus on cancer diagnosis, COVID-19 management, and medical imaging. Other significant areas of application included environmental and agricultural management, industrial optimization, cybersecurity, finance, transportation, and entertainment. Additionally, emerging applications in law, education, and social care highlight XAI’s expanding impact. The review reveals a predominant use of local explanation methods, particularly SHAP and LIME, with SHAP being favored for its stability and mathematical guarantees. However, a critical gap in the evaluation of XAI results is identified, as most studies rely on anecdotal evidence or expert opinion rather than robust quantitative metrics. This underscores the urgent need for standardized evaluation frameworks to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of XAI applications. Future research should focus on developing comprehensive evaluation standards and improving the interpretability and stability of explanations. These advancements are essential for addressing the diverse demands of various application domains while ensuring trust and transparency in AI systems.
A Novel Method for Aircraft Structural Dynamic Strain Trend Signal Processing via Optimized Parallel Computing
Authors: Tian Yongwei , Zhang Fang , Jiang Jinhui , Fan Zhe
Published: October 2024

In this study, we investigate the underlying causes of drift in the time history curves of measured parameters obtained through strain electrical measurements and assess their impacts on load measurements. To address the challenge of efficiently processing large volumes of aircraft load data, we propose and analyze a multi-level parallel algorithm specifically designed for the data processing of aircraft load measurements. To achieve this objective, we discuss parallel processing at both medium- and fine-grained levels and develop two distinct parallel processing algorithms: one for coarse- and medium-grained aircraft-type data streams, and another for medium- and fine-grained takeoff and landing data streams. The efficacy of these algorithms is validated through the processing of load data measured on a specific aircraft wing. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach offers a novel technical pathway for large-scale scientific computations and enhances data processing efficiency in the domain of aircraft load spectrum analysis.
Study on Failure Characteristics and Acoustic Emission Laws of Rock-like Specimens under Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Dai Shuhong , Sun Qinglin , Hao Ruiqi , Xiao Yuxuan
Published: October 2024

Complex underground conditions make it challenging to conduct extensive coring, and it is difficult for laboratories to carry out a large number of rock mechanics experiments due to the limited number of cores. Rock-like specimens are commonly used in the laboratory to replace coal-rock specimens. In this paper, rock-like specimens with different proportions are produced to study the mechanical properties, failure characteristics, and acoustic emission laws of rock-like specimens under uniaxial compression. The results show that when the rock-like specimen does not contain gypsum, the stress of the specimen decreases rapidly after reaching the peak stress, which is similar to the mechanical properties of hard brittle rock. When the rock-like specimen contains gypsum, the stress of the specimen decreases slowly after reaching the compressive limit, and the failure of the specimen is gentle, which is similar to the mechanical properties of soft rock. When the specimen lacks gypsum, the strength of the rock-like specimen is larger, and the strength of the specimen is positively correlated with the proportion of cement. When the specimen contains gypsum, the strength of the rock-like specimen decreases sharply, and the strength of the rock-like specimen is negatively correlated with the proportion of gypsum. The maximum acoustic emission ringing count increases with higher cement content but decreases with increased gypsum content. The cumulative count change of acoustic emissions approximately underwent four stages, aligning well with the four stages of uniaxial compression failure observed in typical rock. The research results have important reference value for the selection of rock-like materials to replace the original rock materials for laboratory research.
Consensus Control of Leader–Follower Multi-Agent Systems with Unknown Parameters and Its Circuit Implementation
Authors: Ye Yinfang , He Jianbin
Published: October 2024

With the development and progress of Internet and data technology, the consensus control of multi-agent systems has been an important topic in nonlinear science. How to effectively achieve the consensus of leader–follower multi-agent systems at a low cost is a difficult problem. This paper analyzes the consensus control of complex financial systems. Firstly, the dynamic characteristics of the financial system are analyzed by the equilibrium points, bifurcation diagrams, and Lyapunov exponent spectra. The behavior of the financial system is discussed by different parameter values. Secondly, according to the Lyapunov stability theorem, the consensus of master–slave systems is proposed by linear feedback control, wherein the controllers are simple and low cost. And an adaptive control method for the consensus of master–slave systems is investigated based on financial systems with unknown parameters. In theory, the consensus of the leader–follower multi-agent systems is proved by the parameter identification laws and linear feedback control method. Finally, the effectiveness and reliability of the consensus of leader–follower multi-agent systems are verified through the experimental simulation results and circuit implementation.
Improving the Impact Resistance of Anti-Ram Bollards Using Auxetic and Honeycomb Cellular Cores
Authors: Al-Rifaie Hasan , Hassan Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Security is a crucial matter, and when it comes to road safety, barriers are increasingly needed to protect assets and pedestrians from intentional and accidental vehicular impacts. Hollow steel tubes are commonly used to produce bollards; however, their impact resistance and energy absorption are limited. Hence, the aim of this study is to investigate whether the addition of honeycomb and auxetic cellular cores can improve the energy absorption and protection level of existing bollards. Hollow bollard, a honeycomb–core bollard and an auxetic-core bollard were numerically modeled and tested (using Simulia Abaqus software, version 2019) against the impact of M1-class vehicles (of 1500 kg mass) at five different speeds (following PAS 68:2013 British standard). Hence, 15 cases/numerical models were considered, with 5 cases for each bollard type. The results revealed that the addition of an auxetic cellular core to the bollard system could increase its energy dissipation by 52% compared to the hollow steel bollard. Moreover, the proposed auxetic anti-ram bollard system was capable of stopping an M1-class vehicular impact of 64 km/h compared to only 32 km/h when using a hollow steel bollard. To the authors’ knowledge, the use of an auxetic core, explicitly for anti-ram bollards, can be considered the novel part of this research.
Fuzzy Logic Control with Long Short-Term Memory Neural Network for Hydrogen Production Thermal Control System
Authors: Yu Hsing-Cheng , Wang Qing-An , Li Szu-Ju
Published: October 2024

In the development of decarbonization technologies and renewable energy, water electrolysis has emerged as a key technology. The efficiency of hydrogen production and its applications are significantly affected by power stability. Enhancing power stability not only improves hydrogen production efficiency and reduces maintenance costs but also ensures long-term reliable system operation. This study proposes a thermal control method that stabilizes hydrogen output by precisely adjusting the temperature of the electrolysis stack, thereby improving hydrogen production efficiency. Fluctuations in the electrolysis stack temperature can lead to instability in the hydrogen output and energy utilization, negatively affecting overall hydrogen production. To address this issue, this study introduces an innovative system architecture and a novel thermal control strategy combining fuzzy logic control with a long short-term memory neural network. This method predicts and adjusts the flow rate of chilled water to maintain the electrolysis stack temperature within a range of ±1 °C while sustaining a constant power output of 10 kW. This approach is crucial for ensuring system stability and maximizing hydrogen production efficiency. Long-term experiments have validated the effectiveness and reliability of this method, demonstrating that this thermal control strategy not only stabilizes the hydrogen production process but also increases the volume of hydrogen generated.
Starlikeness, Convexity, Close-to-Convexity, and Quasi-Convexity for Functions with Fixed Initial Coefficients
Authors: Ahmed Alkarafi Mohanad Kadhim , Ebadian Ali , Shams Saeid
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we employ the theory of differential subordination to establish a theorem that delineates certain sufficient conditions for starlikeness, convexity, close-to-convexity, and quasi-convexity in relation to functions with fixed initial coefficients. Furthermore, we introduce some results derived from these conditions. Building upon this framework, we derive an extension of Nunokawa’s lemma for analytic functions with fixed initial coefficients.
Preconditioning of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhances the Neuroprotective Effects of Their Conditioned Medium in an Alzheimer’s Disease In Vitro Model
Authors: Tolstova Tatiana , Dotsenko Ekaterina , Luzgina Natalia , Rusanov Alexander
Published: October 2024

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) develops as a result of oxidative damage to neurons and chronic inflammation of microglia. These processes can be influenced by the use of a conditioned medium (CM) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The CM contains a wide range of factors that have neurotrophic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, the therapeutic potential of the CM can be further enhanced by pretreating the MSCs to increase their paracrine activity. The current study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of CM derived from MSCs, which were either activated by a TLR3 ligand or exposed to CoCl2, a hypoxia mimetic (pCM or hCM, respectively), in an in vitro model of AD. Methods: We have developed a novel in vitro model of AD that allows us to investigate the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of MSCs on induced neurodegeneration in the PC12 cell line and the activation of microglia using THP-1 cells. Results: This study demonstrates for the first time that pCM and hCM exhibit more pronounced immunosuppressive effects on proinflammatory M1 macrophages compared to CM derived from untreated MSCs (cCM). This may help prevent the development of neuroinflammation by balancing the M1 and M2 microglial phenotypes via the decreased secretion of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) and increased secretion of IL-4, as well as the expression of IL-10 and TGF-β by macrophages. Moreover, a previously unknown increase in the neurotrophic properties of hCM was discovered, which led to an increase in the viability of neuron-like PC12 cells under H2O2-induced oxidative-stress conditions. These results are likely associated with an increase in the production of growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In addition, the neuroprotective effects of CM from preconditioned MSCs are also mediated by the activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway in PC12 cells. Conclusions: TLR3 activation in MSCs leads to more potent immunosuppressive effects of the CM against pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages, while the use of hCM led to increased neurotrophic effects after H2O2-induced damage to neuronal cells. These results are of interest for the potential treatment of AD with CM from preactivated MSCs.
Fertility Concerns Related to Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: An Under-Discussed Topic
Authors: Savitch Samantha L. , Marzoughi Maedeh , Suwanabol Pasithorn A.
Published: October 2024

As the incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) increases among younger adults, the need for discussions regarding treatment-related infertility is growing. The negative impacts of gonadotoxic chemotherapy and pelvic radiation are well documented, but the role that surgical intervention for CRC plays in infertility is less clear. Additionally, treatment-related infertility counseling occurs infrequently. This review provides an overview of the connection between abdominal and pelvic surgery on male and female infertility and elucidates the role of surgeons in counseling to alleviate psychological distress in newly diagnosed patients. A review of the literature revealed that pelvic surgery leads to increased adhesion formation, which is known to be associated with female infertility. Furthermore, nerve damage from pelvic surgery has significant implications for ejaculatory issues in males and sexual dysfunction in both males and females, which ultimately impact pregnancy success. Patients have significant distress related to treatment-related infertility, and pre-treatment fertility counseling has been shown to alleviate some of this psychological burden. Nevertheless, many patients do not receive counseling, particularly in surgical clinics, despite surgeons often being the first providers to see newly diagnosed non-metastatic patients. Efforts should be made to enact protocols that ensure fertility conversations are being had with patients in surgical clinics and that patients are being referred to fertility specialists appropriately. This patient-centered approach will lessen the psychological burden placed on patients during a vulnerable time in their lives.