bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operator Smith Algorithm for Coupled Stein Equations from Jump Control Systems
Authors: Yu Bo , Dong Ning , Hu Baiquan
Published: April 2024

Consider a class of coupled Stein equations arising from jump control systems. An operator Smith algorithm is proposed for calculating the solution of the system. Convergence of the algorithm is established under certain conditions. For large-scale systems, the operator Smith algorithm is extended to a low-rank structured format, and the error of the algorithm is analyzed. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the operator Smith iteration outperforms existing linearly convergent iterative methods in terms of computation time and accuracy. The low-rank structured iterative format is highly effective in approximating the solutions of large-scale structured problems.
Neurosteroid Modulation of Synaptic and Extrasynaptic GABAA Receptors of the Mouse Nucleus Accumbens
Authors: Mitchell Scott J. , Phillips Grant D. , Tench Becks , Li Yunkai , Belelli Delia , Martin Stephen J. , Swinny Jerome D. , Kelly Louise , Atack John R. , Paradowski Michael , Lambert Jeremy J.
Published: April 2024

The recent approval of formulations of the endogenous neurosteroid allopregnanolone (brexanolone) and the synthetic neuroactive steroid SAGE-217 (zuranolone) to treat postpartum depression (PPD) has encouraged further research to elucidate why these potent enhancers of GABAAR function are clinically effective in this condition. Dopaminergic projections from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to the nucleus accumbens are associated with reward/motivation and brain imaging studies report that individuals with PPD show reduced activity of this pathway in response to reward and infant engagement. However, the influence of neurosteroids on GABA-ergic transmission in the nucleus accumbens has received limited attention. Here, we investigate, in the medium spiny neurons (MSNs) of the mouse nucleus accumbens core, the effect of allopregnanolone, SAGE-217 and other endogenous and synthetic steroids of interest on fast phasic and tonic inhibition mediated by synaptic (α1/2βγ2) and extrasynaptic (α4βδ) GABAARs, respectively. We present evidence suggesting the resident tonic current results from the spontaneous opening of δ-GABAARs, where the steroid-enhanced tonic current is GABA-dependent. Furthermore, we demonstrate local neurosteroid synthesis in the accumbal slice preparation and reveal that GABA-ergic neurotransmission of MSNs is influenced by an endogenous neurosteroid tone. Given the dramatic fluctuations in allopregnanolone levels during pregnancy and postpartum, this neurosteroid-mediated local fine-tuning of GABAergic transmission in the MSNs will probably be perturbed.
Characterization of an Arginine Decarboxylase from Streptococcus pneumoniae by Ultrahigh-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Lee Jung Hwa , Ayoola Moses B. , Shack Leslie A. , Swiatlo Edwin , Nanduri Bindu
Published: April 2024

Polyamines are polycations derived from amino acids that play an important role in proliferation and growth in almost all living cells. In Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus), modulation of polyamine metabolism not only plays an important regulatory role in central metabolism, but also impacts virulence factors such as the capsule and stress responses that affect survival in the host. However, functional annotation of enzymes from the polyamine biosynthesis pathways in the pneumococcus is based predominantly on computational prediction. In this study, we cloned SP_0166, predicted to be a pyridoxal-dependent decarboxylase, from the Orn/Lys/Arg family pathway in S. pneumoniae TIGR4 and expressed and purified the recombinant protein. We performed biochemical characterization of the recombinant SP_0166 and confirmed the substrate specificity. For polyamine analysis, we developed a simultaneous quantitative method using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC)-based liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) without derivatization. SP_0166 has apparent Km, kcat, and kcat/Km values of 11.3 mM, 715,053 min−1, and 63,218 min−1 mM−1, respectively, with arginine as a substrate at pH 7.5. We carried out inhibition studies of SP_0166 enzymatic activity with arginine as a substrate using chemical inhibitors DFMO and DFMA. DFMO is an irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase activity, while DFMA inhibits arginine decarboxylase activity. Our findings confirm that SP_0166 is inhibited by DFMA and DFMO, impacting agmatine production. The use of arginine as a substrate revealed that the synthesis of putrescine by agmatinase and N-carbamoylputrescine by agmatine deiminase were both affected and inhibited by DFMA. This study provides experimental validation that SP_0166 is an arginine decarboxylase in pneumococci.
GmTCP40 Promotes Soybean Flowering under Long-Day Conditions by Binding to the GmAP1a Promoter and Upregulating Its Expression
Authors: Zhang Lixin , Wang Peiguo , Wang Miao , Xu Xin , Jia Hongchang , Wu Tingting , Yuan Shan , Jiang Bingjun , Sun Shi , Han Tianfu , Wang Liwei , Chen Fulu
Published: April 2024

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is a short-day (SD) plant that is sensitive to photoperiod, which influences flowering, maturity, and even adaptation. TEOSINTE-BRANCHED1/CYCLOIDEA/PROLIFERATING CELL FACTOR (TCP) transcription factors have been shown to regulate photoperiodic flowering. However, the roles of TCPs in SD plants such as soybean, rice, and maize remain largely unknown. In this study, we cloned the GmTCP40 gene from soybean and investigated its expression pattern and function. Compared with wild-type (WT) plants, GmTCP40-overexpression plants flowered earlier under long-day (LD) conditions but not under SD conditions. Consistent with this, the overexpression lines showed upregulation of the flowering-related genes GmFT2a, GmFT2b, GmFT5a, GmFT6, GmAP1a, GmAP1b, GmAP1c, GmSOC1a, GmSOC1b, GmFULa, and GmAG under LD conditions. Further investigation revealed that GmTCP40 binds to the GmAP1a promoter and promotes its expression. Analysis of the GmTCP40 haplotypes and phenotypes of soybean accessions demonstrated that one GmTCP40 haplotype (Hap6) may contribute to delayed flowering at low latitudes. Taken together, our findings provide preliminary insights into the regulation of flowering time by GmTCP40 while laying a foundation for future research on other members of the GmTCP family and for efforts to enhance soybean adaptability.
Shear Performance of Demountable High-Strength Bolted Connectors: An Experimental and Numerical Study Based on Reverse Push-Out Tests
Authors: Deng Peng , Niu Zhi-Wei , Shi Yu-Hao , Liu Yan , Wang Wen-Long
Published: April 2024

Steel–concrete composite beams, essential for large-span structures, benefit from connectors that reduce cracking at the supports. The crack resistance and alignment with sustainable building trends of high-strength bolted connectors have been extensively researched. Nevertheless, only a few studies exist on their load–slip behavior in hogging sections. In this study, the shear performance of high-strength bolted connectors subjected to tension due to hogging moments was studied based on experiments and numerical modeling according to numerous reverse push-out tests. The results revealed that tensile and splitting cracks were produced in the concrete. Their distribution was affected primarily by the concrete strength and bolt diameter; this distribution became denser at decreasing concrete strengths and increasing bolt diameters. Subsequently, an analysis of the out-of-plane displacement and load–slip response was performed to investigate the phenomenon of anchor rod sliding. A cost-effective and time-efficient finite-element (FE) model was developed to investigate the internal microstates of the specimens. It revealed a correlation between bolt cracking, specimen hardening, steel yield, and failure. A correction factor is also proposed for the shear capacity of bolts within concrete subjected to tension. The findings offer insights into the load–slip response of high-strength bolted connectors subjected to hogging moments, aiding in safer, more durable supports for steel–concrete composite beams.
Hot Summers in Nordic Apartments: Exploring the Correlation between Outdoor Weather Conditions and Indoor Temperature
Authors: Farahani Azin Velashjerdi , Jokisalo Juha , Korhonen Natalia , Jylhä Kirsti , Kosonen Risto
Published: April 2024

As the incidence of extended hot summers in the Nordic climate increases due to climate change, non-mechanically cooled apartments face high risks of overheating. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the temporal effects of heatwaves on indoor temperatures and examine the correlation between outdoor weather conditions and indoor temperature levels. A comprehensive field study was conducted across over 6000 apartments in the Helsinki region during the hot summer of 2021 and its heatwaves. Results indicated that nearly half of the apartments experienced indoor temperatures above 27 °C for over 7 consecutive days. It was found that an outdoor daily average temperature of 19 °C could cause indoor daily average temperatures higher than 27 °C. Further, the study revealed a strong correlation between indoor temperatures and outdoor 5-day moving average temperature, allowing occupants time to take preventative measures. Additionally, a linear relationship was found between the indoor average temperature, the outdoor 5-day moving average temperature, and the 7-day moving average solar radiation. The strength of the correlation and the magnitude of the effects of outdoor temperature and solar radiation varied depending on the duration of heatwaves. This highlights the importance of considering heatwaves in the design and renovation of residential buildings in the Nordic climate.
Evaluation of the New European Bauhaus in Urban Plans by Land Use Occurrence Indicators: A Case Study in Rijeka, Croatia
Authors: Bilić Bojan , Šmit Krunoslav
Published: April 2024

The aim of the research is to provide a numerical evaluation of the occurrence of New European Bauhaus (NEB) principles in urban plans, using four key indicators: GI (green infrastructure), POS (public open space), PSN (public and social needs), and UR (urban reconstruction). The initial step in the research involves determining numerical quantitative indicators with target reference values, which are then used as a measure of compliance with the vision of the NEB. Indicators are modeled based on elements embedded in urban plans and implemented in a framework for evaluating these plans. Through the analysis of collected data, a comparison is made with the set goals and values of the NEB, thus enabling the assignment of ratings for occurrence and identification of areas where improvements are needed. The research results for Rijeka point to the need for planning new green areas, maintaining and developing street networks, and increasing pedestrian and park areas. Additionally, there is a suggested need to increase content to meet public and social needs and expand areas planned for urban reconstruction. The research results emphasize the importance of monitoring and adjusting urban plans to the NEB platform to achieve sustainable and balanced urban development goals, highlighting the need for continuous improvement in the quality of urban planning.
Plasticity of Response Properties of Mouse Visual Cortex Neurons Induced by Optogenetic Tetanization In Vivo
Authors: Smirnov Ivan V. , Osipova Aksiniya A. , Smirnova Maria P. , Borodinova Anastasia A. , Volgushev Maxim A. , Malyshev Alexey Y.
Published: April 2024

Heterosynaptic plasticity, along with Hebbian homosynaptic plasticity, is an important mechanism ensuring the stable operation of learning neuronal networks. However, whether heterosynaptic plasticity occurs in the whole brain in vivo, and what role(s) in brain function in vivo it could play, remains unclear. Here, we used an optogenetics approach to apply a model of intracellular tetanization, which was established and employed to study heterosynaptic plasticity in brain slices, to study the plasticity of response properties of neurons in the mouse visual cortex in vivo. We show that optogenetically evoked high-frequency bursts of action potentials (optogenetic tetanization) in the principal neurons of the visual cortex induce long-term changes in the responses to visual stimuli. Optogenetic tetanization had distinct effects on responses to different stimuli, as follows: responses to optimal and orthogonal orientations decreased, responses to null direction did not change, and responses to oblique orientations increased. As a result, direction selectivity of the neurons decreased and orientation tuning became broader. Since optogenetic tetanization was a postsynaptic protocol, applied in the absence of sensory stimulation, and, thus, without association of presynaptic activity with bursts of action potentials, the observed changes were mediated by mechanisms of heterosynaptic plasticity. We conclude that heterosynaptic plasticity can be induced in vivo and propose that it may play important homeostatic roles in operation of neural networks by helping to prevent runaway dynamics of responses to visual stimuli and to keep the tuning of neuronal responses within the range optimized for the encoding of multiple features in population activity.
Voltage and Reactive Power-Optimization Model for Active Distribution Networks Based on Second-Order Cone Algorithm
Authors: Xu Yaxuan , Han Jihao , Yin Zi , Liu Qingyang , Dai Chenxu , Ji Zhanlin
Published: April 2024

To address the challenges associated with wind power integration, this paper analyzes the impact of distributed renewable energy on the voltage of the distribution network. Taking into account the fast control of photovoltaic inverters and the unique characteristics of photovoltaic arrays, we establish an active distribution network voltage reactive power-optimization model for planning the active distribution network. The model involves solving the original non-convex and non-linear power-flow-optimization problem. By introducing the second-order cone relaxation algorithm, we transform the model into a second-order cone programming model, making it easier to solve and yielding good results. The optimized parameters are then applied to the IEEE 33-node distribution system, where the phase angle of the node voltage is adjusted to optimize the reactive power of the entire power system, thereby demonstrating the effectiveness of utilizing a second-order cone programming algorithm for reactive power optimization in a comprehensive manner. Subsequently, active distribution network power quality control is implemented, resulting in a reduction in network loss from 0.41 MW to 0.02 MW. This reduces power loss rates, increases utilization efficiency by approximately 94%, optimizes power quality management, and ensures that users receive high-quality electrical energy.
Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in Australia: Key Considerations for Assessment and Implementation
Authors: Fitzsimons James A. , Partridge Thalie , Keen Rebecca
Published: April 2024

Other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) have been a feature of global biodiversity targets since 2010 (Aichi Targets, Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework), although the concept has only relatively recently been formally defined. Although uptake has been limited to date, there is much interest in identifying OECMs to contribute to the target of protecting at least 30% of terrestrial, freshwater and ocean areas by 2030, in conjunction with protected areas. Australia has a long history of protected area development across public, private and Indigenous lands, but consideration of OECMs in policy has recently begun in that country. We review principles proposed by the Australian Government for OECMs in Australia and highlight where these deviate from global guidance or established Australian area-based policy. We examined various land use categories and conservation mechanisms to determine the likelihood of these categories/mechanisms meeting the OECM definition, with a particular focus on longevity of the mechanism to sustain biodiversity. We identified that the number of categories/mechanisms that would meet the OECM definition is relatively small. A number of potentially perverse outcomes in classifying an area as an OECM are highlighted in order to guide proactive policy and program design to prevent such outcomes occurring.
Epidemiology of Diabetes Mellitus in Adults and Seniors in Rio Branco, Acre, Western Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Lima Yara de Moura Magalhães , Martins Fernanda Andrade , Ramalho Alanderson Alves
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: To analyze the prevalence and factors associated with diabetes mellitus in adults and the elderly in Rio Branco, Acre, Western Brazilian Amazon. (2) Methods: The R software version 4.0.5 was used for estimating the prevalence of diabetes mellitus, odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals. Multiple analysis was conducted through hierarchical variable selection. (3) Results: 1.095 individuals aged 18 years and older participated in this study, with 6.4% of the respondents showing prevalence of diabetes mellitus. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was positively associated with a prior medical diagnosis of obesity (OR: 3.2; 95% CI: 1.67–6.12), dyslipidemia (OR: 4.17; 95% CI: 2.08–8.36), and increasing age (OR: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.05–1.09). Conversely, an inverse association was observed with higher education (12 or more years of study; OR: 0.20; 95% CI: 0.07–0.61). (4) Conclusions: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the municipality of Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil, has significantly increased with advancing age. Education, obesity, and dyslipidemia were also identified as factors associated with diabetes mellitus in this population. Awareness campaigns regarding dietary patterns and lifestyle choices may serve as preventive and control measures.
Evaluation of the forAge Age-at-Death Estimation Program Using Pubic Symphyseal Surface in a Korean Population
Authors: Park Hyun Jin , Song Sehyun , Woo Eun Jin , Hu Kyung-Seok
Published: April 2024

The forAge program estimates the age-at-death of human pubic symphysis using 3-dimensional scans. It was developed by Dennis E. Slice and Bridget F. B. Algee-Hewitt, and utilizes three distinct scores: the Slice and Algee-Hewitt (SAH) score, bending energy (BE), and ventral curvature (VC). However, these scores and age estimation regression equation were obtained through European American pubic symphysis. Changes in the pubic symphysis surface are evaluated as one of the most reliable indicators for estimating age, but in connection with this, using Korean materials, changes in the pubic symphysis surface and the actual changes are evaluated. There is no bar where the relationship between ages is grasped, and there are cases where a methodology developed for a specific group is applied to a Korean group. Changing the pubic symphysis surface by aging was evaluated as one of the most reliable indicators for estimating age. However, there is no study conducted on the relationship between changes in the pubic symphysis and actual age and applied the age estimation method for a specific population among Korean population. The purpose of this study is to compare the difference between the actual age and the estimated age in Korean to see if the forAge program is applicable to other population of different ancestral origin. One hundred and four modern Korean pubic symphyseal surfaces (47 to 96 years old) were used in this study. Through the pubic symphyseal surface 3-dimensional images, age-at-death was estimated via prediction equation and new regression lines using SAH, VC, and BE scores. Firstly, the estimated age via prediction equation using the first version of SAH score was lower than the actual age according to all pubic symphyseal surfaces for those older than 56. With aging, the difference between the actual age and estimated age became markedly larger. Secondly, the estimated ages via the new regression lines using VC, the second version of SAH score, and BE were shown a similar pattern to the previous prediction equation. The current study explored the applicability of a quantitative method using pubic symphyseal surface for age estimation in a modern Korean population. This study showed the forAge program cannot be applied to a modern Korean population, as they present relatively low correlations with the actual age-at-death.
The Effect of Chitosan Incorporation on Physico-Mechanical and Biological Characteristics of a Calcium Silicate Filling Material
Authors: Abusrewil Sumaya , Scott J. Alun , Alqahtani Saeed S. , Butcher Mark C. , Tiba Mohammed , Kumar Charchit , Mulvihill Daniel M. , Ramage Gordon , McLean William
Published: April 2024

Objectives: A tricalcium silicate-based cement, Biodentine™, has displayed antibiofilm activity when mixed with chitosan powder. This study aimed to assess the effect of chitosan incorporation on the physico-mechanical and biological properties of Biodentine™. Methods: In this study, medium molecular weight chitosan powder was incorporated into Biodentine™ in varying proportions (2.5 wt%, 5 wt%, 10 wt%, and 20 wt%). The setting time was determined using a Vicat apparatus, solubility was assessed by calculating weight variation after water immersion, radiopacity was evaluated and expressed in millimeters of aluminum, the compressive strength was evaluated using an Instron testing machine, and the microhardness was measured with a Vickers microhardness tester. In addition, surface topography of specimens was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, and the effect of chitosan on the viability of human embryonic kidney (HEK 293) cells was measured by a colorimetric MTT assay. Results: Incorporation of 2.5 wt% and 5 wt% chitosan powder delivered an advantage by speeding up the setting time of Biodentine material. However, the incorporation of chitosan compromised all other material properties and the crystalline structure in a dose-dependent manner. The chitosan-modified material also showed significant decreases in the proliferation of the HEK 293 cells, signifying decreased biocompatibility. Significance: Chitosan incorporation into calcium silicate materials adversely affects the physical and biological properties of the material. Despite the increased antimicrobial activity of the modified material, the diminution in these properties is likely to reduce its clinical value.
Evolutionary Competition Multitasking Optimization with Online Resource Allocation for Endmemeber Extraction of Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Shang Yiming , Wang Qian , Zhu Wenbo , Xie Fei , Wang Hexu , Li Lei
Published: April 2024

Hyperspectral remote sensing images typically have mixed rather than pure pixels. Endmember extraction aims to find a group of endmembers to represent the original image. In fact, the amount of endmembers is not easily determined in the existing endmember extraction studies.It requires several separate and laborious runs in order to produce results for endmember extraction with varying numbers of endmembers. There is also a correlation between the individual runs, which should be taken into account to accelerate algorithm convergence and improve accuracy. In this paper, an evolutionary competition multitasking optimization method (CMTEE) is proposed to achieve endmember extraction. In the proposed method, endmember extraction problems with different numbers of endmembers are considered as a group of optimization tasks. Specially, these tasks are assumed to be competitive. Then, online resource allocation is employed to assign suitable computational resources to the considered tasks. Experiments on simulated and real hyperspectral datasets demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed evolutionary competition multitasking optimization method for endmember extraction.
Characteristics Analysis of IGZO TFT and Logic Unit in the Temperature Range of 8–475 K
Authors: Wang Jianjian , Bi Jinshun , Xu Gaobo , Liu Mengxin
Published: April 2024

The effect of high- and low-temperature conditions on the performance of IGZO TFT and logic circuits were investigated in this work. In the temperature range of 250−350 K, the performance of the IGZO TFT did not show significant changes and exhibited a certain degree of high- and low-temperature resistance. When the temperature was below 250 K, as the temperature decreased, the threshold voltage (VTH) of the IGZO TFT significantly increased, the field effect mobility (μFE) and the on state current (ION) significantly decreased. This is attributed to the lower excitation degree of charge carriers at extremely low temperatures, resulting in fewer charge carriers transitioning to the conduction or valence bands, and the formation of defects also limits carrier migration. When the temperature exceeded 350 K, as the temperature increased, more electrons could escape from the bandgap trap state and become free charge carriers, and the IGZO layer was thermally excited to produce more oxygen vacancies, resulting in higher μFE and lower VTH. In addition, the drain current noise spectral density of IGZO TFT conformed to the 1/ƒ noise characteristic, and the degradation mechanism of IGZO TFT over a wide temperature range was confirmed based on the changes in noise spectral density at different temperatures. In addition, an inverter logic unit circuit was designed based on IGZO TFT, and the performance changes over a wide temperature range were analyzed. This lays the foundation for IGZO TFT to be applied in integrated circuits with harsh environments.
Forensic Analysis of File Exfiltrations Using AnyDesk, TeamViewer and Chrome Remote Desktop
Authors: G. Pañeda Xabiel , Melendi David , Corcoba Víctor , G. Pañeda Alejandro , García Roberto , García Dan
Published: April 2024

The use of remote desktop applications has increased greatly in recent years, mainly because of the generalization of telecommuting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This process has been carried out in a very controlled manner in some companies, but in other organizations it has been introduced in a more anarchic way. The direct use of on-premises company computers and resources from the internet without the necessary protection mechanisms, including VPNs, has increased the risk of data exfiltration. Apart from other types of data exfiltration, there are cases in which employees transfer files using encrypted communications, consciously or unconsciously, producing a leak of information undetected by data loss prevention systems. In this paper we analyse the question of whether a forensic investigation may answer questions about data exfiltrations; questions such as those regarding the when, what and who (or to whom) and the use of application logs and other available tools. The answers to these questions may form the basis of solid digital evidence for legal purposes, though they may only deliver a partial response to said questions. Other complementary sources are necessary to build a complete answer and accurate digital evidence. Nevertheless, we have identified and analysed several use cases that may help to raise an early alarm that can offer warning about certain behaviours in encrypted traffic that may be detected via network monitoring.
Prompt-Enhanced Generation for Multimodal Open Question Answering
Authors: Cui Chenhao , Li Zhoujun
Published: April 2024

Multimodal open question answering involves retrieving relevant information from both images and their corresponding texts given a question and then generating the answer. The quality of the generated answer heavily depends on the quality of the retrieved image–text pairs. Existing methods encode and retrieve images and texts, inputting the retrieved results into a language model to generate answers. These methods overlook the semantic alignment of image–text pairs within the information source, which affects the encoding and retrieval performance. Furthermore, these methods are highly dependent on retrieval performance, and poor retrieval quality can lead to poor generation performance. To address these issues, we propose a prompt-enhanced generation model, PEG, which includes generating supplementary descriptions for images to provide ample material for image–text alignment while also utilizing vision–language joint encoding to improve encoding effects and thereby enhance retrieval performance. Contrastive learning is used to enhance the model’s ability to discriminate between relevant and irrelevant information sources. Moreover, we further explore the knowledge within pre-trained model parameters through prefix-tuning to generate background knowledge relevant to the questions, offering additional input for answer generation and reducing the model’s dependency on retrieval performance. Experiments conducted on the WebQA and MultimodalQA datasets demonstrate that our model outperforms other baseline models in retrieval and generation performance.
Short-Term Electric Load Forecasting Based on Signal Decomposition and Improved TCN Algorithm
Authors: Xiang Xinjian , Yuan Tianshun , Cao Guangke , Zheng Yongping
Published: April 2024

In the realm of power systems, short-term electric load forecasting is pivotal for ensuring supply–demand balance, optimizing generation planning, reducing operational costs, and maintaining grid stability. Short-term load curves are characteristically coarse, revealing high-frequency data upon decomposition that exhibit pronounced non-linearity and significant noise, complicating efforts to enhance forecasting precision. To address these challenges, this study introduces an innovative model. This model employs complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) to bifurcate the original load data into low- and high-frequency components. For the smoother low-frequency data, a temporal convolutional network (TCN) is utilized, whereas the high-frequency components, which encapsulate detailed load history information yet suffer from a lower fitting accuracy, are processed using an enhanced soft thresholding TCN (SF-TCN) optimized with the slime mould algorithm (SMA). Experimental tests of this methodology on load forecasts for the forthcoming 24 h across all seasons have demonstrated its superior forecasting accuracy compared to that of non-decomposed models, such as support vector regression (SVR), recurrent neural network (RNN), gated recurrent unit (GRU), long short-term memory (LSTM), convolutional neural network-LSTM (CNN-LSTM), TCN, Informer, and decomposed models, including CEEMDAN-TCN and CEEMDAN-TCN-SMA.
Assessing Ecological Gains: A Review of How Arthropods, Bats and Birds Benefit from Green Roofs and Walls
Authors: Tiago Patrícia , Leal Ana I. , Silva Cristina Matos
Published: April 2024

Because of the immense amount of infrastructure in cities, the introduction of vegetation into these constructions is expected to play a critical role in reducing the heat island effect, in mitigating the effects of climate change, and in supporting habitat connectivity and associated biodiversity. Although there is the perception that these solutions can improve the biodiversity of cities, their real value is still unclear. This paper focuses on two aspects of urban greening: green roofs and green walls. It provides a systematic review on biodiversity present in green roofs and walls, through an exhaustive worldwide literature analysis. Arthropods, bats, and birds were the three taxonomic groups analyzed in the papers included in our review. We observed a strong increase in the number of recent publications, thus demonstrating a growing interest in this topic. In summary, we found that green roofs/walls offered additional opportunities for plants and animals to thrive in urban environments because of habitat creation and greater spatial connectivity. In addition, the enhancement of other ecosystem services such as stormwater management and heat island mitigation was noted. By incorporating green features into urban design and planning, cities can support biodiversity while also improving the overall sustainability and livability of urban spaces.
Cellular Immunity of SARS-CoV-2 in the Borriana COVID-19 Cohort: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Domènech-Montoliu Salvador , Puig-Barberà Joan , Pac-Sa María Rosario , Orrico-Sanchéz Alejandro , Gómez-Lanas Lorna , Sala-Trull Diego , Domènech-Leon Carmen , Del Rio-González Alba , Sánchez-Urbano Manuel , Satorres-Martinez Paloma , Aparisi-Esteve Laura , Badenes-Marques Gema , Blasco-Gari Roser , Casanova-Suarez Juan , Gil-Fortuño María , Hernández-Pérez Noelia , Jovani-Sales David , López-Diago Laura , Notari-Rodríguez Cristina , Pérez-Olaso Oscar , Romeu-Garcia María Angeles , Ruíz-Puig Raquel , Arnedo-Pena Alberto
Published: April 2024

Our goal was to determine the cellular immune response (CIR) in a sample of the Borriana COVID-19 cohort (Spain) to identify associated factors and their relationship with infection, reinfection and sequelae. We conducted a nested case–control study using a randomly selected sample of 225 individuals aged 18 and older, including 36 individuals naïve to the SARS-CoV-2 infection and 189 infected patients. We employed flow-cytometry–based immunoassays for intracellular cytokine staining, using Wuhan and BA.2 antigens, and chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Logistic regression models were applied. A total of 215 (95.6%) participants exhibited T-cell response (TCR) to at least one antigen. Positive responses of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were 89.8% and 85.3%, respectively. No difference in CIR was found between naïve and infected patients. Patients who experienced sequelae exhibited a higher CIR than those without. A positive correlation was observed between TCR and anti-spike IgG levels. Factors positively associated with the TCR included blood group A, number of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine doses received, and anti-N IgM; factors inversely related were the time elapsed since the last vaccine dose or infection, and blood group B. These findings contribute valuable insights into the nuanced immune landscape shaped by SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination.
Site Quality Models and Fuel Load Dynamic Equation Systems Disaggregated by Size Fractions and Vegetative States in Gorse and High Heath Shrublands in Galicia (NW Spain)
Authors: Vega José A. , Álvarez-González Juan Gabriel , Arellano-Pérez Stéfano , Fernández Cristina , Ruiz-González Ana Daría
Published: April 2024

Compatible model systems were developed for estimating fuel load dynamics in Ulex europaeus (gorse) and in Erica australis (Spanish heath) dominated shrub communities at stand level. The models were based on intensive, detailed destructive field sampling and were fitted simultaneously to fulfill the additivity principle. The models enable, for the first time, estimation of the biomass dynamics of the total shrub layer, size fractions and vegetative stage, with reasonably good accuracy. The approach used addresses the high variability in shrub biomass estimates by using a site index (SI) based on biomass levels at a reference age of 10 years. Analysis of the effect of climatic variables on site index confirmed the preference of gorse for mild temperatures and the ability of high heath communities to tolerate a wider range of temperatures. In the gorse communities, SI tended to increase as summer rainfall and the mean temperature of the coldest month increased. However, in the heath communities, no relationships were observed between SI and any of the climatic variables analyzed. The study findings may be useful for assessing and monitoring fuel hazards, updating fuel mapping, planning and implementing fuel reduction treatments and predicting fire behavior, among other important ecological and biomass use-related applications.
Severe and Short Interval Fires Rearrange Dry Forest Fuel Arrays in South-Eastern Australia
Authors: Gordon Christopher E. , Nolan Rachael H. , Boer Matthias M. , Bendall Eli R. , Williamson Jane S. , Price Owen F. , Kenny Belinda J. , Taylor Jennifer E. , Denham Andrew J. , Bradstock Ross A.
Published: April 2024

Fire regimes have shaped extant vegetation communities, and subsequently fuel arrays, in fire-prone landscapes. Understanding how resilient fuel arrays are to fire regime attributes will be key for future fire management actions, given global fire regime shifts. We use a network of 63-field sites across the Sydney Basin Bioregion (Australia) to quantify how fire interval (short: last three fires <10 years apart, long: last two fires >10 years apart) and severity (low: understorey canopy scorched, high: understorey and overstorey canopy scorched), impacted fuel attribute values 2.5 years after Australia’s 2019–2020 Black Summer fires. Tree bark fuel hazard, herbaceous (near-surface fuels; grasses, sedges <50 cm height) fuel hazard, and ground litter (surface fuels) fuel cover and load were higher in areas burned by low- rather than high-severity fire. Conversely, midstorey (elevated fuels: shrubs, trees 50 cm–200 m in height) fuel cover and hazard were higher in areas burned by high- rather than low-severity fire. Elevated fuel cover, vertical connectivity, height and fuel hazard were also higher at long rather than short fire intervals. Our results provide strong evidence that fire regimes rearrange fuel arrays in the years following fire, which suggests that future fire regime shifts may alter fuel states, with important implications for fuel and fire management.
Feruloyl Glyceride Mitigates Tomato Postharvest Rot by Inhibiting Penicillium expansum Spore Germination and Enhancing Suberin Accumulation
Authors: Gao Jieyu , Song Wu , Tang Xiaofeng , Liu Yongsheng , Miao Min
Published: April 2024

Postharvest rot, caused by Penicillium expansum, in tomatoes poses significant economic and health risks. Traditional control methods, such as the use of fungicides, raise concerns about pathogen resistance, food safety, and environmental impact. In search of sustainable alternatives, plant secondary metabolites, particularly phenolic compounds and their derivatives, have emerged as promising natural antimicrobials. Among these, feruloyl glyceride (FG), a water-soluble derivative of ferulic acid, stands out due to its antioxidant properties, antibacterial properties, and improved solubility. In this study, we provide evidence demonstrating FG is capable of inhibiting the spore germination of P. expansum and effectively reducing the incidence rate of Penicillium rot of tomatoes, without compromising quality. Electron microscopy observations combined with metabolite and transcriptomic analyses revealed that FG treatments resulted in enhanced suberin accumulation through promoting the expression of suberin synthesis related genes and, consequently, inhibited the growth and expansion of P. expansum on the fruits. This work sheds light on the mechanisms underlying FG’s inhibitory effects, allowing its potential application as a natural and safe alternative to replace chemical fungicides for postharvest preservation.
Effect of Sprouted Buckwheat on Glycemic Index and Quality of Reconstituted Rice
Authors: Kang Lingtao , Luo Jiaqian , Su Zhipeng , Zhou Liling , Xie Qiutao , Li Gaoyang
Published: April 2024

This study utilized sprouted buckwheat as the main component and aimed to optimize its combination with other grains to produce reconstituted rice with enhanced taste and a reduced glycemic index (GI). The optimal blend comprised wheat flour, sprouted buckwheat flour, black rice flour, and purple potato flour in a ratio of 34.5:28.8:26.7:10.0. Based on this blend, the reconstituted rice processed through extrusion puffing exhibited a purple-black hue; meanwhile, the instant reconstituted rice, produced through further microwave puffing, displayed a reddish-brown color. both imparted a rich cereal flavor. The starch in both types of rice exhibited a V-shaped structure with lower relative crystallinity. Compared to commercial rice, the reconstituted rice and instant reconstituted rice contained higher levels of flavonoids, polyphenols, and other flavor compounds, along with 1.63-fold and 1.75-fold more proteins, respectively. The GI values of the reconstituted rice and the instant reconstituted rice were 68.86 and 69.47, respectively; thus, they are medium-GI foods that can alleviate the increase in blood glucose levels.
Shelf-Life Management and Ripening Assessment of ‘Hass’ Avocado (Persea americana) Using Deep Learning Approaches
Authors: Xavier Pedro , Rodrigues Pedro Miguel , Silva Cristina L. M.
Published: April 2024

Avocado production is mostly confined to tropical and subtropical regions, leading to lengthy distribution channels that, coupled with their unpredictable post-harvest behavior, render avocados susceptible to significant loss and waste. To enhance the monitoring of ‘Hass’ avocado ripening, a data-driven tool was developed using a deep learning approach. This study involved monitoring 478 avocados stored in three distinct storage environments, using a 5-stage Ripening Index to classify each fruit’s ripening phase based on their shared characteristics. These categories were paired with daily photographic records of the avocados, resulting in a database of labeled images. Two convolutional neural network models, AlexNet and ResNet-18, were trained using transfer learning techniques to identify distinct ripening indicators, enabling the prediction of ripening stages and shelf-life estimations for new unseen data. The approach achieved a final prediction accuracy of 88.8% for the ripening assessment, with 96.7% of predictions deviating by no more than half a stage from their actual classifications when considering the best side of the samples. The average shelf-life estimates based on the attributed classifications were within 0.92 days of the actual shelf-life, whereas the predictions made by the models had an average deviation of 0.96 days from the actual shelf-life.
Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modelling of UGT Substrate Drugs Lamotrigine and Raltegravir during Pregnancy
Authors: Berezowska Monika , Coppola Paola , Pilla Reddy Venkatesh , Sharma Pradeep
Published: April 2024

Pregnancy is associated with various physiological changes that can significantly impact the disposition of drugs. To further the insight into how pregnancy affects the pharmacokinetics of drugs at different stages, clinical studies can be simulated using Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic modelling. PBPK modelling of drugs metabolised by Phase I enzymes (CYPs) in pregnant population models had been reported in the past, while its use in Phase II (UGTs) is not known. In this study, based on the results of a recent meta-analysis, lamotrigine (UGT1A4) and raltegravir (UGT1A1) were selected as candidate drugs, and pregnancy-specific models were developed for both using the Simcyp v.21 simulator. A middle-out strategy was used where previously published drug parameters were adapted from a minimal to a full PBPK model to allow their application for the pregnancy population models using Simcyp PBPK software. Adapted models were successfully validated against observed clinical data both qualitatively (visual overlay of plasma concentrations on graphs) and quantitatively (calculating the predicted/observed ratios for AUC, Cmax and CL as well as statistical analysis using model prediction power metrics). They were then applied to predict the PKs of both drugs in pregnancy population models. The temporal changes in maternal enzymatic activities during gestation were modelled based on in vitro data reported in literature and default relationships encoded in the Simcyp platform for UGT1A1 and UGT1A4, respectively. Our study demonstrates the successful development and validation of a PBPK model for LTG and RTG in pregnancy population models. Future work with additional UGT1A4 substrate drugs using the proposed changes in UGT1A4 activity may enable validating the pregnancy population model and its subsequent use for the prospective prediction of PK.
Qualities of Older Adults’ Family and Friendship Relationships and Their Association with Life Satisfaction
Authors: Mpofu Elias , Zhan Rong-Fang , Yin Cheng , Brock Kaye
Published: April 2024

While family and friendship relationship qualities are associated with life satisfaction, evidence on how these types of relationships interact to contribute to older adults’ life satisfaction is sparse. This study examined how family and friendship relationship qualities may be supportive of (compensatory) or conflict with (competing) older adults’ life satisfaction. We adopted a cross-sectional design to analyze data from the Health and Retirement Study (n = 1178, females = 54.8%, mean age = 67.9 years, SD = 9.3 years) to examine compensatory (as in social support) and competing (as in social strain) qualities of family and friendship social relationships and their association with life satisfaction in older adults. For greater explanatory power, we also controlled for life satisfaction by sociodemographic variables of age, gender, education, self-reported general health, physical health and activity, depression, and personality traits. Our findings indicate that the spouse/partner support relationship contributes to older adults’ life satisfaction overall and is associated with greater social support and less social strain. Friendship support is associated with improved life satisfaction for older adults reporting spouse/partner strain. Relationship support for the life satisfaction of older adults should consider their need for social support from their social network while minimizing the risk of social strain from adversarial relationships in life situations.
Channel Morphology Change after Restoration: Drone Laser Scanning versus Traditional Surveying Techniques
Authors: Resop Jonathan P. , Hendrix Coral , Wynn-Thompson Theresa , Hession W. Cully
Published: April 2024

Accurate and precise measures of channel morphology are important when monitoring a stream post-restoration to determine changes in stability, water quality, and aquatic habitat availability. Practitioners often rely on traditional surveying methods such as a total station for measuring channel metrics (e.g., cross-sectional area, width, depth, and slope). However, these methods have limitations in terms of coarse sampling densities and time-intensive field efforts. Drone-based lidar or drone laser scanning (DLS) provides much higher resolution point clouds and has the potential to improve post-restoration monitoring efforts. For this study, a 1.3-km reach of Stroubles Creek (Blacksburg, VA, USA), which underwent a restoration in 2010, was surveyed twice with a total station (2010 and 2021) and twice with DLS (2017 and 2021). The initial restoration was divided into three treatment reaches: T1 (livestock exclusion), T2 (livestock exclusion and bank treatment), and T3 (livestock exclusion, bank treatment, and inset floodplain). Cross-sectional channel morphology metrics were extracted from the 2021 DLS scan and compared to metrics calculated from the 2021 total station survey. DLS produced 6.5 times the number of cross sections over the study reach and 8.8 times the number of points per cross section compared to the total station. There was good agreement between the metrics derived from both surveying methods, such as channel width (R2 = 0.672) and cross-sectional area (R2 = 0.597). As a proof of concept to demonstrate the advantage of DLS over traditional surveying, 0.1 m digital terrain models (DTMs) were generated from the DLS data. Based on the drone lidar data, from 2017 to 2021, treatment reach T3 showed the most stability, in terms of the least change and variability in cross-sectional metrics as well as the least erosion area and volume per length of reach.