bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of Care in Hospitals and the Use of Mobile-Based Personal Health Record Applications: An Exploratory Study Using National Hospital Evaluation Data
Authors: Park Young-Taek , Lee Mi-Joon , Kim Sang Mi
Published: May 2024

The use of mobile-based personal health record (m-PHR) applications at the hospital level has been minimally studied. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between m-PHR use and quality of care. A cross-sectional study design was employed, analyzing data from 99 hospitals. Two data sources were utilized: a previous m-PHR investigation conducted from 26 May to 30 June 2022 and a hospital evaluation dataset on quality of care. The use of m-PHR applications was measured by the number of m-PHR application downloads. Three independent variables were assessed: quality of care in the use of antibiotic drugs, injection drugs, and polypharmacy with ≥6 drugs. A generalized linear model was used for the analysis. The hospitals providing high-quality care, as evaluated based on the rate of antibiotic prescription (relative risk [RR], 3.328; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.840 to 6.020; p < 0.001) and polypharmacy (RR, 2.092; 95% CI, 1.027 to 4.261; p = 0.042), showed an increased number of m-PHR downloads. Among the hospital covariates, public foundation status and being part of multi-hospital systems were associated with the number of m-PHR downloads (p < 0.05). This exploratory study found a positive relationship between quality of care and m-PHR use. Hospitals providing high-quality care may also excel in various activities, including m-PHR application use.
Identification and Expression Analysis of the BTB/POZ Gene Family in Solanum tuberosum
Authors: Feng Haoyue , Lu Yifei , Ren Bi , Yang Shimin , Liu Yongjian , Lu Liming , Li Liqin
Published: May 2024

The BTB/POZ (broad-complex, tramtrack, and bric-a-brac) family of proteins is widespread in plants and animals and plays important roles in growth, development, metabolism, and environmental responses. There are few reports on BTB family genes in potato. In this study, 34 sequences containing conserved BTB domains were obtained from the potato gene database, and the phylogenetic, physical, and chemical properties, gene structure, conserved motif, domain, and chromosomal localization of the potato BTB protein family were analyzed via bioinformatics methods. In addition, we used qRT-PCR to detect 12 selected StBTB genes. The results confirmed that these genes are involved in cold, ABA, salt, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), drought, and low-nitrogen stress, which is highly important for elucidating BTB family members and studying stress response and tolerance mechanisms. This study provides a theoretical basis for the study of the function and expression of potato BTB and lays a solid foundation for further understanding the molecular mechanism of the potato BTB gene under various environmental stresses.
Identification of S-RNase Genotypes of 65 Almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] Germplasm Resources and Close Relatives
Authors: Xu Panyun , Wang Lirong , Wang Xinwei , Xu Yeting , Ablitip Yarmuhammat , Guo Chunmiao , Ayup Mubarek
Published: May 2024

Self-incompatibility (SI) systems in plants prevent self-pollination and mating among relatives, enhancing genetic diversity in nature but posing challenges in almond production and breeding. S-allele composition alongside the flowering periods of these cultivars enables the anticipation of cross-compatibility and optimal cultivar combinations for the allocation of pollinating trees in production. In the current study, 65 materials containing 61 almond (Prunus dulcis) germplasm resources, of which two were hybrids and the remaining four were peach (Prunus persica) germplasms, were used for the S-RNase genotype. The results showed that 55 genomic samples were amplified by PCR to obtain double-banded types, which identified their complete S-RNase genotypes, while the rest of the samples amplified only a single band, identifying one S-RNase gene in the S gene. A total of 30 S-RNase genes were identified in Prunus dulcis, Prunus webbii, Prunus persica, Prunus armeniaca, Prunus salicina, and Prunus cerasifera. Sequence analysis revealed polymorphisms spanning from 313 to 2031 bp within the amplified fragment sequence. The S57-RNase gene exhibited the highest frequency at 31.75% among the identified materials, with S1S57, S10S57, and S7S57 being the predominant S genotypes. A new S-RNase gene, named S65, was identified with a sequencing length of 1483 bp. Its deduced amino acid sequence shared 98.24% similarity with the amino acid sequence of the S-RNase gene on GenBank, with the highest homology. Furthermore, according to the findings, 65 materials belong to eight S genotype cross-incompatibility groups (CIG) and one semi-compatibility or compatibility group (0). Among them, most of the seven main almond germplasm resources and 35 cultivars can be cross-pollinated. The results of the study can lay the foundation for pollinator tree allocation and breeding hybrid parent selection in almond production.
Leaf Fermentation Products of Allium sativum L. Can Alleviate Apple Replant Disease (ARD)
Authors: Yin Chengwen , Zhang Rong , Zhao Yiming , Wang Gongshuai , Yin Chengmiao , Liu Yusong , Mao Zhiquan
Published: May 2024

Apple replant disease (ARD) is a serious threat to newly replanted apple seedlings. The alleviation of ARD is of great significance for the healthy development of the apple industry. In this study, we investigated the effects of leaf fermentation products (LFP) of Allium sativum L. on the replanted soil environment and Malus hupehensis Rehd. seedlings. The results showed that LFP increased biomass accumulation, changed root architecture, increased root anti-oxidant enzyme activity, and decreased root MDA content under replanted conditions. In addition, the application of LFP increased soil nutrients and soil enzyme activity and reduced phenolic acid content. Furthermore, the LFP enriched the number of beneficial bacteria and reduced the number of harmful fungi, which positively affected the soil microbial community structure. Overall, our results demonstrated that LFP of A. sativum L. could alleviate the occurrence of ARD and provide new insights for the reuse of the leaves of A. sativum L. and the prevention of ARD.
De Novo Assembly and Comparative Analysis of Mitochondrial Genomes of Two Pueraria montana Varieties
Authors: Guo Lijun , Lao Guoren , He Longfei , Xiao Dong , Zhan Jie , Wang Aiqin
Published: May 2024

Pueraria montana is a species with important medicinal value and a complex genetic background. In this study, we sequenced and assembled the mitochondrial (mt) genomes of two varieties of P. montana. The mt genome lengths of P. montana var. thomsonii and P. montana var. montana were 457,390 bp and 456,731 bp, respectively. Both P. montana mitogenomes showed a multi-branched structure consisting of two circular molecules, with 56 genes annotated, comprising 33 protein-coding genes, 18 tRNA genes (trnC-GCA and trnM-CAU are multi-copy genes), and 3 rRNA genes. Then, 207 pairs of long repeats and 96 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were detected in the mt genomes of P. montana, and 484 potential RNA-editing sites were found across the 33 mitochondrial protein-coding genes of each variety. Additionally, a syntenic sequence analysis showed a high collinearity between the two mt genomes. This work is the first to analyze the mt genomes of P. montana. It can provide information that can be used to analyze the structure of mt genomes of higher plants and provide a foundation for future comparative genomic studies and evolutionary biology research in related species.
Molecular Insights into Female Hybrid Sterility in Interspecific Crosses between Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans
Authors: Kotov Alexei A. , Adashev Vladimir E. , Kombarov Ilia A. , Bazylev Sergei S. , Shatskikh Aleksei S. , Olenina Ludmila V.
Published: May 2024

Species of the genus Drosophila have served as favorite models in speciation studies; however, genetic factors of interspecific reproductive incompatibility are under-investigated. Here, we performed an analysis of hybrid female sterility by crossing Drosophila melanogaster females and Drosophila simulans males. Using transcriptomic data analysis and molecular, cellular, and genetic approaches, we analyzed differential gene expression, transposable element (TE) activity, piRNA biogenesis, and functional defects of oogenesis in hybrids. Premature germline stem cell loss was the most prominent defect of oogenesis in hybrid ovaries. Because of the differential expression of genes encoding piRNA pathway components, rhino and deadlock, the functional RDCmel complex in hybrid ovaries was not assembled. However, the activity of the RDCsim complex was maintained in hybrids independent of the genomic origin of piRNA clusters. Despite the identification of a cohort of overexpressed TEs in hybrid ovaries, we found no evidence that their activity can be considered the main cause of hybrid sterility. We revealed a complicated pattern of Vasa protein expression in the hybrid germline, including partial AT-chX piRNA targeting of the vasasim allele and a significant zygotic delay in vasamel expression. We arrived at the conclusion that the hybrid sterility phenotype was caused by intricate multi-locus differences between the species.
Current Status of Newborn Bloodspot Screening Worldwide 2024: A Comprehensive Review of Recent Activities (2020–2023)
Authors: Therrell Bradford L. , Padilla Carmencita D. , Borrajo Gustavo J. C. , Khneisser Issam , Schielen Peter C. J. I. , Knight-Madden Jennifer , Malherbe Helen L. , Kase Marika
Published: May 2024

Newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) began in the early 1960s based on the work of Dr. Robert “Bob” Guthrie in Buffalo, NY, USA. His development of a screening test for phenylketonuria on blood absorbed onto a special filter paper and transported to a remote testing laboratory began it all. Expansion of NBS to large numbers of asymptomatic congenital conditions flourishes in many settings while it has not yet been realized in others. The need for NBS as an efficient and effective public health prevention strategy that contributes to lowered morbidity and mortality wherever it is sustained is well known in the medical field but not necessarily by political policy makers. Acknowledging the value of national NBS reports published in 2007, the authors collaborated to create a worldwide NBS update in 2015. In a continuing attempt to review the progress of NBS globally, and to move towards a more harmonized and equitable screening system, we have updated our 2015 report with information available at the beginning of 2024. Reports on sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean, missing in 2015, have been included. Tables popular in the previous report have been updated with an eye towards harmonized comparisons. To emphasize areas needing attention globally, we have used regional tables containing similar listings of conditions screened, numbers of screening laboratories, and time at which specimen collection is recommended. Discussions are limited to bloodspot screening.
Lanthanide-Containing Polyoxometalate Crystallized with Bolaamphiphile Surfactants as Inorganic–Organic Hybrid Phosphors
Authors: Ishibashi Rieko , Koike Ruka , Suda Yoriko , Kojima Tatsuhiro , Sumi Toshiyuki , Misawa Toshiyuki , Kizu Kotaro , Okamura Yosuke , Ito Takeru
Published: May 2024

Lanthanide elements such as europium exhibit distinctive emissions due to the transitions of inner-shell 4f electrons. Inorganic materials containing lanthanide elements have been widely used as phosphors in conventional displays. The hybridization of lanthanide ions with organic components enables to control of the material’s shapes and properties and broadens the possibility of lanthanide compounds as inorganic–organic materials. Lanthanide ion-containing polyoxometalate anions (Ln-POM) are a promising category as an inorganic component to design and synthesize inorganic–organic hybrids. Several inorganic–organic Ln-POM systems have been reported by hybridizing with cationic surfactants as luminescent materials. However, single-crystalline ordering has not been achieved in most cases. Here, we report syntheses and structures of inorganic–organic hybrid crystals of lanthanide-based POM and bolaamphiphile surfactants with two hydrophilic heads in one molecule. An emissive decatungstoeuropate ([EuW10O36]9−, EuW10) anion was employed as a lanthanide source. The bolaamphiphile counterparts are 1,8-octamethylenediammonium ([H3N(CH2)8NH3]2+, C8N2) and 1,10-decamethylenediammonium ([H3N(CH2)10NH3]2+, C10N2). Both hybrid crystals of C8N2-EuW10 and C10N2-EuW10 were successfully obtained as single crystals, and their crystal structures were unambiguously determined using X-ray diffraction measurements. The photoluminescence properties of C8N2-EuW10 and C10N2-EuW10 were investigated by means of steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopy. The characteristic emission derived from the EuW10 anion was retained after the hybridization process.
The Effects of Exercise Training on Functional Capacity and Quality of Life in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Athanasiou Amalia , Papazachou Ourania , Rovina Nikoletta , Nanas Serafim , Dimopoulos Stavros , Kourek Christos
Published: May 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise training on functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) in patients with RA. We performed a search in four databases, selecting clinical trials that included community or outpatient exercise training programs in patients with RA. The primary outcome was functional capacity assessed by peak VO2 or the 6 min walking test, and the secondary outcome was QoL assessed by questionnaires. Seven studies were finally included, identifying a total number of 448 patients. The results of the present systematic review show a statistically significant increase in peak VO2 after exercise training in four out of seven studies. In fact, the improvement was significantly higher in two out of these four studies compared to the controls. Six out of seven studies provided data on the patients’ QoL, with five of them managing to show statistically significant improvement after exercise training, especially in pain, fatigue, vitality, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. This systematic review demonstrates the beneficial effects of exercise training on functional capacity and QoL in patients with RA.
Diagnostic Challenges in Aortic Stenosis
Authors: González-García André , Pazos-López Pablo , Calvo-Iglesias Francisco Eugenio , Matajira-Chía Tatiana Mallely , Bilbao-Quesada Raquel , Blanco-González Elisa , González-Ríos Carina , Castiñeira-Busto María , Barreiro-Pérez Manuel , Íñiguez-Romo Andrés
Published: May 2024

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most prevalent degenerative valvular disease in western countries. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is considered, nowadays, to be the main imaging technique for the work-up of AS due to high availability, safety, low cost, and excellent capacity to evaluate aortic valve (AV) morphology and function. Despite the diagnosis of AS being considered straightforward for a very long time, based on high gradients and reduced aortic valve area (AVA), many patients with AS represent a real dilemma for cardiologist. On the one hand, the acoustic window may be inadequate and the TTE limited in some cases. On the other hand, a growing body of evidence shows that patients with low gradients (due to systolic dysfunction, concentric hypertrophy or coexistence of another valve disease such as mitral stenosis or regurgitation) may develop severe AS (low-flow low-gradient severe AS) with a similar or even worse prognosis. The use of complementary imaging techniques such as transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), multidetector computed tomography (MDTC), or cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) plays a key role in such scenarios. The aim of this review is to summarize the diagnostic challenges associated with patients with AS and the advantages of a comprehensive multimodality cardiac imaging (MCI) approach to reach a precise grading of the disease, a crucial factor to warrant an adequate management of patients.
Can Brief Listening to Mozart’s Music Improve Visual Working Memory? An Update on the Role of Cognitive and Emotional Factors
Authors: Giannouli Vaitsa , Yordanova Juliana , Kolev Vasil
Published: May 2024

The aim of this research was to enhance understanding of the relationship between brief music listening and working memory (WM) functions. The study extends a previous large-scale experiment in which the effects of brief exposure to music on verbal WM were explored. In the present second phase of the experiment, these effects were assessed for the visuospatial subcomponent of WM. For that aim, visuospatial WM was measured using the Corsi blocks task-backwards and Visual Patterns Test in a large sample of 311 young and older adults after being exposed to musical excerpts coming from different music composers (Mozart, Vivaldi, Glass). To account for possible effects of arousal, a silence condition was used. Individual preference for music excerpts and emotional reactions to each condition were also subjectively rated using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) to account for the role of emotional reactions in shaping subsequent cognitive performance. Results showed that music affected the visuospatial sketchpad of WM. In line with the previously described Mozart effect, only Mozart’s music had a significant positive impact on visuospatial WM in the two age groups, regardless of preferences, and on overall age-related WM decline in older adults. The Mozart effect was more prominent for the VPT than the Corsi task and was also expressed for the prevailing positive effect. These observations are in contrast to the selective influence of Vivaldi’s music on verbal WM that was detected in our first study. Together, the results demonstrate a differential music influence on the phonological loop and on the visuospatial sketchpad. They thus contribute to the debate of whether music has the potential to affect distinct processes within working memory in an excerpt- or composer-specific manner. Also, they suggest that emotional activation and central executive attention are essentially involved in modulating the influence of music on subsequent cognition. These findings can assist in the selection of music excerpts used in cognitive rehabilitation programs that focus on visuospatial skills.
Optimization of the FDM Processing Parameters on the Compressive Properties of ABS Objects for the Production of High-Heeled Shoes
Authors: Kutnjak-Mravlinčić Suzana , Godec Damir , Pilipović Ana , Sutlović Ana
Published: May 2024

The influence of 3D printing parameters on compressive properties is an important factor in the application of additive manufacturing processes for products subjected to compressive loads in use. In this study, the compressive strength and compressive modulus of acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene (ABS) test specimens fabricated using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) process were investigated with the aim of producing products of high-heeled shoes for women. The experimental part of the study includes a central composite experimental design to optimize the main 3D printing parameters (layer thickness, infill density, and extrusion temperature) and the infill geometry (honeycomb and linear at a 45° angle—L45) to achieve maximum printing properties of the 3D-printed products. The results show that the infill density has the greatest influence on the printing properties, followed by the layer thickness and, finally, the extrusion temperature as the least influential factor. The linear infill at a 45° angle resulted in higher compressive strength and lower compressive modulus values compared to the honeycomb infill. By optimizing the results, the maximum compressive strength (that of L45 is 41 N/mm2 and that of honeycomb 35 N/mm2) and modulus (that of L45 is 918 N/mm2 and that of honeycomb is 868 N/mm2) for both types of infill is obtained at a layer thickness of 0.1 mm and infill density of 40%, while the temperature for L45 can be in the range of 209 °C to 254 °C, but for the honeycomb infill, the processing temperature is 255 °C. Additionally, the study highlights the potential for sustainable manufacturing practices and the integration of advanced 3D printing technologies to enhance the efficiency and eco-friendliness of the production process.
DyFish-DETR: Underwater Fish Image Recognition Based on Detection Transformer
Authors: Wang Zhuowei , Ruan Zhukang , Chen Chong
Published: May 2024

Due to the complexity of underwater environments and the lack of training samples, the application of target detection algorithms to the underwater environment has yet to provide satisfactory results. It is crucial to design specialized underwater target recognition algorithms for different underwater tasks. In order to achieve this goal, we created a dataset of freshwater fish captured from multiple angles and lighting conditions, aiming to improve underwater target detection of freshwater fish in natural environments. We propose a method suitable for underwater target detection, called DyFish-DETR (Dynamic Fish Detection with Transformers). In DyFish-DETR, we propose a DyFishNet (Dynamic Fish Net) to better extract fish body texture features. A Slim Hybrid Encoder is designed to fuse fish body feature information. The results of ablation experiments show that DyFishNet can effectively improve the mean Average Precision (mAP) of model detection. The Slim Hybrid Encoder can effectively improve Frame Per Second (FPS). Both DyFishNet and the Slim Hybrid Encoder can reduce model parameters and Floating Point Operations (FLOPs). In our proposed freshwater fish dataset, DyFish-DETR achieved a mAP of 96.6%. The benchmarking experimental results show that the Average Precision (AP) and Average Recall (AR) of DyFish-DETR are higher than several state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, DyFish-DETR, respectively, achieved 99%, 98.8%, and 83.2% mAP in other underwater datasets.
Event-Triggered Supercavitating Vehicle Terminal Sliding Mode Control Based on Non-Recursive Observation
Authors: Zhang Zichen , Wang Xiaogang , Wang Zhicheng , Wang Shuai
Published: May 2024

Supercavitating vehicles present significant issues in controller design due to their multiphase flow-coupling characteristics. This study addresses force analysis and the construction of a 6-degree-of-freedom mathematical model for a supercavitating vehicle. A terminal sliding mode control law is intended to guarantee the quick tracking of the command signal for high-precision attitude control. To drastically lower the frequency of actuation and communication, a mechanism to trigger events is also introduced into the control link. A disturbance observer, which estimates system uncertainty using a non-recursive differentiator, improves the robustness of the system. The Lyapunov approach is used to prove that the system is stable. Numerical simulation results validate that the proposed method enhances control accuracy and robustness. The event-trigger mechanism reduces the execution frequency to 18.59%, effectively reducing the communication burden.
Effect of Chemical Corrosion on Rock Fracture Behavior in Coastal Deep Mines: Insights from Mechanical and Acoustic Characteristics
Authors: Pan Jiliang , Ma Yichen , Zhang Leiming , Ning Zegong , Zhang Ying , Xi Xun
Published: May 2024

The demand for critical minerals has increased extraction activities in coastal deep mines where challenges such as high stresses, chemical corrosion, and mining disturbance impacts are present. This study investigated the effects of chemical corrosion and confining pressure on the mechanical and fracture behaviors of granite specimens, which are crucial for ensuring the stability of surrounding rock in coastal deep mines. Triaxial compression tests were conducted on uncorroded specimens and corroded specimens immersed in acid and alkali solutions under varying confining pressures, with real-time acoustic emission (AE) monitoring. Based on the test results, the strength and deformation properties, progressive fracture, and failure processes, as well as the AE response characteristics of the specimens under chemical corrosion and confining pressure were analyzed. Additionally, the influence of confining pressure on the chemical damage and brittle–ductile transition behavior of specimens was discussed, and the mechanism of chemical corrosion on the physical and mechanical behavior of specimens was revealed based on mineralogical analysis. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the interplay between chemical corrosion, confining pressure, and rock fracture behavior in coastal deep mining and contribute to evaluating the stability of underground surrounding rocks under corrosion environments.
Assessing Diagnosis of Candida Infections: A Study on Species Prevalence and Antifungal Resistance in Northern Morocco
Authors: Ahaik Islam , Nunez-Rodríguez Juan Carlos , Abrini Jamal , Bouhdid Samira , Gabaldón Toni
Published: May 2024

The incidence of Candida infections has increased in the last decade, posing a serious threat to public health. Appropriately facing this challenge requires precise epidemiological data on species and antimicrobial resistance incidence, but many countries lack appropriate surveillance programs. This study aims to bridge this gap for Morocco by identifying and phenotyping a year-long collection of clinical isolates (n = 93) from four clinics in Tetouan. We compared the current standard in species identification with molecular methods and assessed susceptibility to fluconazole and anidulafungin. Our results identified limitations in currently used diagnostics approaches, and revealed that C. albicans ranks as the most prevalent species with 60 strains (64.52%), followed by C. glabrata with 14 (15.05%), C. parapsilosis with 6 (6.45%), and C. tropicalis with 4 (4.30%). In addition, we report the first identification of C. metapsilosis in Morocco. Susceptibility results for fluconazole revealed that some isolates were approaching MICs resistance breakpoints in C. albicans (2), and C. glabrata (1). Our study also identified anidulafungin resistant strains in C. albicans (1), C. tropicalis (1), and C. krusei (2), rendering the two strains from the latter species multidrug-resistant due to their innate resistance to fluconazole. These results raise concerns about species identification and antifungal resistance in Morocco and highlight the urgent need for more accurate methods and preventive strategies to combat fungal infections in the country.
Determinants of Bank Profitability—Do Institutions, Globalization, and Global Uncertainty Matter for Banks in Island Economies? The Case of Fiji
Authors: Chand Shasnil Avinesh , Kumar Ronald Ravinesh , Stauvermann Peter Josef , Shahbaz Muhammad
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study is to examine the influences of institutions, globalization, and world uncertainty on bank profitability in small developing economies. Consequently, we emphasize the significance of both bank-specific and other external factors influencing bank profitability. The empirical estimation is based on seven banks in Fiji—a small island economy—over the period 2000–2021. Together with bank-specific and macro factors, we account for institutions, globalization, and world uncertainty in analyzing the determinants of bank profitability. The study uses the fixed-effect estimation method. From the results, we observe that bank-specific variables, like the net interest margin, non-interest income, bank size, and capital adequacy ratio, are positively associated with bank profitability. Non-performing loans and credit risk are negatively associated with bank profitability. Macro variables, such as real GDP growth and remittances, have positive effects on bank profitability. Institutional factors, such as government effectiveness and voice and accountability, are positively associated with bank profitability. Regarding globalization, we find that it supports bank profitability. Global uncertainty and the Global Financial Crisis (2007–2008) are positively associated with profitability, whereas the global pandemic (COVID-19) is negatively associated. This study underscores the need to analyze the bank performance with factors beyond those reported in financial statements to derive a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the complex nature of banking operations.
The Temporal and Spatial Evolution Characteristics and Driving Factors of Ecosystem Service Bundles in Anhui Province, China
Authors: Mei Zhongjian , Li Cheng , Zhao Jie , Li Zixuan , Chen Kaiyi , Huang Xin , Zhao Zhiyue
Published: May 2024

Identifying ecosystem service bundles and their long-term evolutionary characteristics is essential for the overall enhancement of regional ecosystem services, as well as the division and management of functional areas, providing a basis for decision-making in formulating ecological and environmental protection policies, as well as regional development planning. Based on land use, remote sensing, and meteorological data obtained from Anhui Province, this study assessed six important ecosystem service functions, including food production (FP), water yield (WY), carbon sequestration (CS), soil conservation (SC), habitat quality (HQ), and landscape aesthetics (LA), at the township scale in 2000, 2010, and 2020. On this basis, the k-means clustering method was used to identify ecosystem service bundles, analyze the spatio-temporal evolution trajectory of service bundles, and explore the driving factors of the spatio-temporal evolution of ecosystem service bundles using GeoDetector 2015 The results indicate the following: (1) At the spatial level, diverse ecosystem services demonstrate pronounced spatial differentiation. The distribution pattern of HQ, carbon fixation, and SC services is generally lower in the north and higher in the south, with areas of high value predominantly located in the western Dabie Mountains and the mountains of Southern Anhui. Conversely, FP services exhibit the reverse pattern, and WY services display a gradual increase from north to south, while cultural services are more dispersed, with areas of high value primarily located in the western Dabie Mountains, the Yangtze River Basin, and other locations. On the temporal scale, WY, SC, and FP services mainly exhibit an increasing trend, marked by a significant increase, whereas other services tend to present a decreasing trend. (2) Anhui Province can be categorized into four distinct types of service bundles: the grain production bundle (GPB), mountain ecological conservation bundle (MECB), urban living bundle (ULB), and core protection bundle (CPB). Ecosystem service bundles exhibit clear spatial differentiation, and identical service bundles demonstrate substantial clustering in space. Between 2000 and 2020, ecosystem service bundles displayed a marked spatio-temporal evolution, with the prevalence of GPBs diminishing, whereas the share of ULBs progressively increased, and the number of MECBs and CPBs remained largely stable. (3) In the spatio-temporal evolution process, the average annual precipitation, the proportion of forest land, and slope constitute the principal natural factors influencing the spatio-temporal evolution of ecosystem service bundles, while the proportion of construction land represents the primary socio-economic factor, with natural factors exerting a more significant influence than socio-economic factors.
Understanding the Liver’s Role in the Clearance of Aβ40
Authors: Lockwood Glen P. , Hunt Nicholas J. , Kockx Maaike , Kang Sun Woo Sophie , Le Couteur David G. , Cogger Victoria C.
Published: May 2024

The clearance of peripheral beta amyloid (Aβ) is a potential target for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The liver has been implicated in the elimination of Aβ from the peripheral circulation. Here, the single-pass uptake of Aβ40 in perfused livers from young and old rats (6 to 10 rats per group) was investigated with the multiple indicator dilution technique. Aβ40 had volumes of distribution between those of the vascular marker Evans Blue and the extracellular marker sucrose. The hepatic extraction of Aβ40 was negligible, explained in part by the small permeability surface area products consistent with a high endothelial barrier to liver uptake. There were no substantial effects of age on any of these results. In vitro experiments with isolated hepatocytes and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells showed only very small amounts of Aβ uptake consistent with low intrinsic clearance. These results indicate that the hepatic clearance of Aβ is capacity-limited, explained by the low-permeability surface area products and hepatocyte uptake. However, this does not preclude an effect of aging in longer-term in vivo studies where age-related changes in liver blood flow and protein binding influence liver clearance.
In-Depth Exploration of Design and Analysis for PM-Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machines: Implications for Light Electric Vehicles
Authors: Adăscăliței Cristina , Marțiș Radu Andrei , Karaisas Petros , Marțiș Claudia Steluța
Published: May 2024

In electric or hybrid vehicles’ propulsion systems, Permanent Magnet-Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machines represent a viable alternative to Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines. Based on previous research work, the present paper proposes, designs, and optimizes two ferrite PMaSynRM topologies, analyzed against a reference machine (also PMaSynRM) with improved torque ripple content, based on similar specifications and dimensional constraints. Considering the trend of increasing the DC voltage level in electric and hybrid vehicles, the optimal topology is included in an analysis of the DC voltage level impact on the design and performances of PMSynRM.
New Health Indicator Construction and Fault Detection Network for Rolling Bearings via Convolutional Auto-Encoder and Contrast Learning
Authors: Wu Dongdong , Chen Da , Yu Gang
Published: May 2024

As one of the most important components in rotating machinery, if bearings fail, serious disasters may occur. Therefore, the remaining useful life (RUL) prediction of bearings is of great significance. Health indicator (HI) construction and early fault detection play a crucial role in data-driven RUL prediction. Unfortunately, most existing HI construction methods require prior knowledge and preset trends, making it difficult to reflect the actual degradation trend of bearings. And the existing early fault detection methods rely on massive historical data, yet manual annotation is time-consuming and laborious. To address the above issues, a novel deep convolutional auto-encoder (CAE) based on envelope spectral feature extraction is developed in this work. A sliding value window is defined in the envelope spectrum to obtain initial health indicators, which are used as preliminary labels for model training. Subsequently, CAE is trained by minimizing the composite loss function. The proposed construction method can reflect the actual degradation trend of bearings. Afterwards, the autoencoder is pre-trained through contrast learning (CL) to improve its discriminative ability. The model that has undergone offline pre-training is more sensitive to early faults. Finally, the HI construction method is combined with the early fault detection method to obtain a comprehensive network for online health assessment and fault detection, thus laying a solid foundation for subsequent RUL prediction. The superiority of the proposed method has been verified through experiments.
Optimal Torque Control of the Launching Process with AMT Clutch for Heavy-Duty Vehicles
Authors: Geng Xiaohu , Liu Weidong , Liu Xiangyu , Wen Guanzheng , Xue Maohan , Wang Jie
Published: May 2024

When launching a heavy-duty vehicle, torque and position control during automatic clutch engagement is critical, and the driver’s intention to launch and changes in the vehicle’s launching resistance make clutch control more complex. This paper analyses the automatic engagement process of automated mechanical transmission (AMT) clutches and proposes an optimal control of the clutch torque for launching heavy-duty vehicles. Firstly, a fuzzy neural network (FNN)-based vehicle launching states recognition (LSR) system is designed for distinguishing the driver’s launching intention and the vehicle’s launching equivalent moment of resistance. Secondly, jerk, friction work, and launching reserve power are taken as the performance indexes for clutch torque optimization, the weight coefficients of each performance index are adjusted according to the LSR results, and the optimal clutch torque is solved by using the minimum value principle based on the shooting method. Finally, simulations and tests are conducted to validate the strategy of optimizing clutch torque, and the impact of torque optimization on the position change during the engagement process is analyzed. The results indicate that under different driver’s intentions, vehicle masses, and road gradient conditions, the jerk, friction work, and slipping time of heavy vehicles during the launching process are improved by applying the optimization strategy.
Some Estimation Methods for a Random Coefficient in the Gegenbauer Autoregressive Moving-Average Model
Authors: Essefiani Oumaima , El Halimi Rachid , Hamdoune Said
Published: May 2024

The Gegenbauer autoregressive moving-average (GARMA) model is pivotal for addressing non-additivity, non-normality, and heteroscedasticity in real-world time-series data. While primarily recognized for its efficacy in various domains, including the health sector for forecasting COVID-19 cases, this study aims to assess its performance using yearly sunspot data. We evaluate the GARMA model’s goodness of fit and parameter estimation specifically within the domain of sunspots. To achieve this, we introduce the random coefficient generalized autoregressive moving-average (RCGARMA) model and develop methodologies utilizing conditional least squares (CLS) and conditional weighted least squares (CWLS) estimators. Employing the ratio of mean squared errors (RMSE) criterion, we compare the efficiency of these methods using simulation data. Notably, our findings highlight the superiority of the conditional weighted least squares method over the conditional least squares method. Finally, we provide an illustrative application using two real data examples, emphasizing the significance of the GARMA model in sunspot research.
Painlevé Analysis of the Traveling Wave Reduction of the Third-Order Derivative Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Kudryashov Nikolay A. , Lavrova Sofia F.
Published: May 2024

The second partial differential equation from the Kaup–Newell hierarchy is considered. This equation can be employed to model pulse propagation in optical fiber, wave propagation in plasma, or high waves in the deep ocean. The integrability of the explored equation in traveling wave variables is investigated using the Painlevé test. Periodic and solitary wave solutions of the studied equation are presented. The investigated equation belongs to the class of generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equations and may be used for the description of optical solitons in a nonlinear medium.
On Curvature Pinching for Submanifolds with Parallel Normalized Mean Curvature Vector
Authors: Gu Juanru , Lu Yao
Published: May 2024

In this note, we investigate the pinching problem for oriented compact submanifolds of dimension n with parallel normalized mean curvature vector in a space form Fn+p(c). We first prove a codimension reduction theorem for submanifolds under lower Ricci curvature bounds. Moreover, if the submanifolds have constant normalized scalar curvature R≥c, we obtain a classification theorem for submanifolds under lower Ricci curvature bounds. It should be emphasized that our Ricci pinching conditions are sharp for even n and p=2.
Contracting Supply Chains Considering Retailers’ Marketing Efforts
Authors: Li Wenqiang , He Juan , Shi Yangyan
Published: May 2024

Strategic cooperation has garnered significant attention in business. In this study, we explored the operating mechanisms of supply chains utilizing three Stackelberg models, in the following ascending order of cooperation level: price only, marketing cost sharing, and cross-shareholding. Further, we investigated the impact of cooperation on prices, marketing efforts, and profits, and analyzed the strategic cooperation preferences of different supply chain members. The results show that the influence of the level of cooperation on the wholesale and selling price is nonlinear. Interestingly, increased levels of cooperation do not always result in better outcomes. The marketing cost-sharing strategy aggravates the marketing burden on retailers. In contrast, the cross-shareholding strategy not only increases the total marketing effort level, but also efficiently reduces the burden of marketing on retailers. Moreover, all cooperation strategies solely benefit manufacturers rather than retailers, and not all of them improve the supply chain’s performance. Finally, the cross-shareholding cooperation strategy only maximizes the consumer surplus and social welfare under certain conditions. Overall, our study describes the operational mechanisms of diverse cooperative strategies and provides managerial guidance for those seeking to enhance marketing efforts and economic and social performance using a cooperation strategy.
Stability Analysis of Linear Time-Varying Delay Systems via a Novel Augmented Variable Approach
Authors: Liao Wenqi , Zeng Hongbing , Lin Huichao
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the stability issues of time-varying delay systems. Firstly, a novel augmented Lyapunov functional is constructed for a class of bounded time-varying delays by introducing new double integral terms. Subsequently, a time-varying matrix-dependent zero equation is introduced to relax the constraints of traditional constant matrix-dependent zero equations. Secondly, for a class of periodic time-varying delays, considering the monotonicity of the delay and combining it with an augmented variable approach, Lyapunov functionals are constructed for monotonically increasing and monotonically decreasing delay intervals, respectively. Based on the constructed augmented Lyapunov functionals and the employed time-varying zero equation, less conservative stability criteria are obtained separately for bounded and periodic time-varying delays. Lastly, three examples are used to verify the superiority of the stability conditions obtained in this paper.
Perfect Codes over Non-Prime Power Alphabets: An Approach Based on Diophantine Equations
Authors: Cazorla García Pedro-José
Published: May 2024

Perfect error-correcting codes allow for an optimal transmission of information while guaranteeing error correction. For this reason, proving their existence has been a classical problem in both pure mathematics and information theory. Indeed, the classification of the parameters of e-error correcting perfect codes over q-ary alphabets was a very active topic of research in the late 20th century. Consequently, all parameters of perfect e-error-correcting codes were found if e≥3, and it was conjectured that no perfect 2-error-correcting codes exist over any q-ary alphabet, where q>3. In the 1970s, this was proved for q a prime power, for q=2r3s and for only seven other values of q. Almost 50 years later, it is surprising to note that there have been no new results in this regard and the classification of 2-error-correcting codes over non-prime power alphabets remains an open problem. In this paper, we use techniques from the resolution of the generalised Ramanujan–Nagell equation and from modern computational number theory to show that perfect 2-error-correcting codes do not exist for 172 new values of q which are not prime powers, substantially increasing the values of q which are now classified. In addition, we prove that, for any fixed value of q, there can be at most finitely many perfect 2-error-correcting codes over an alphabet of size q.
Effects of Gluteal Muscle Strengthening Exercise-Based Core Stabilization Training on Pain and Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Ahn Seung-Eon , Lee Mi-Young , Lee Byoung-Hee
Published: May 2024

Background: The World Health Organization reports that back pain is a major cause of disorder worldwide. It is the most common musculoskeletal disorder with limited pain, muscle tension, and stiffness, and 70–80% of all individuals experience it once in their lifetime, with higher prevalence in women than in men. This study aimed to investigate the effects of gluteal muscle strengthening exercise- based core stabilization training (GSE-based CST) on pain, function, fear-avoidance patterns, and quality of life in patients with chronic back pain. Methods: This study included 34 patients with non-specific chronic low back pain. Seventeen individuals each were included in GSE-based CST and control groups. The GSE-based CST group performed GSE and CST for 15 min, three times a week for four weeks, and the control group performed CST for 30 min a day, three times a week for four weeks. The numeric pain rating scale was used to evaluate pain before and after treatment, Roland–Morris disability questionnaire was used to evaluate function, fear-avoidance beliefs questionnaire was used to evaluate fear-avoidance patterns, and quality of life was measured using the short form-36. Results: In this study, pain, function, and fear-avoidance pattern decreased significantly in both groups (All p < 0.05). During the evaluation of quality of life, both groups showed significant increase in physical and mental factors (p < 0.05). There were significant differences in pain and quality of life (p < 0.05) between the GSE-based CST and control groups. Conclusions: Therefore, GSE-based CST can be used as a basis for effective intervention to enhance pain, function, fear-avoidance patterns, and quality of life, emphasizing the need for gluteal muscle strengthening exercises in patients with non-specific chronic back pain in the future.
The Effects of Cervical Mobilization with Clinical Pilates Exercises on Pain, Muscle Stiffness and Head and Neck Blood Flow in Cervicogenic Headache: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Uzun Meltem , İkidağ Mehmet Ali , Ekmekyapar Fırat Yasemin , Ergun Nevin , Akbayrak Türkan
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Physiotherapy approaches are used to eliminate the problems caused by cervicogenic headache (CHA), known as secondary headache associated with the structures of the upper cervical region. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cervical mobilization (CM) with clinical Pilates exercises (CPE) on pain, muscle stiffness and head–neck blood flow in CGH. Materials and Methods: A total of 25 patients participated in this randomized controlled study and were randomized into either the CM group or the CM+CPE group. All treatment methods were applied 3 days a week for 6 weeks. The outcome measure was headache intensity and frequency, the number of analgesics, muscle stiffness and vertebral artery (VA) and internal carotid artery (ICA) blood flow. Headache intensity was measured by a visual analogue scale, muscle stiffness by a myotonometer and blood flow by Doppler US. Evaluations were repeated after 6 weeks of treatment. Within-group comparisons were made by the Wilcoxon signed rank test, and between-group comparisons were made by the Mann–Whitney U test. Results: After treatments in the two groups, headache intensity and frequency and the number of analgesics decreased, the muscle stiffness of the suboccipital, upper trapezius and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles decreased, and the blood flow of the ICA and VA increased (p < 0.05). There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of headache intensity (p = 0.025) and muscle stiffness in SKM (p = 0.044) in favor of the CM+CPE group. Conclusions: Non-pharmacological treatment approaches have an important role in CHA related to the upper cervical region. This study suggests that it would be beneficial to add CM in combination with CPE to the non-pharmacological treatment of patients with CHA.