bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mex3a promoter hypomethylation can be utilized to diagnose HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yang Jie-Ru , Tian Yu-Xin , Li Jin-E. , Zhang Ying , Fan Yu-Chen , Wang Kai
Published: November 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma remains a health challenge for humanity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel biomarkers with high efficiency yet fast ability to meet the requirements of hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.

Methods

A total of 229 patients with HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), 298 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and 96 healthy controls were retrospectively analyzed. Methylation levels of the Mex3a promoter in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were measured using MethyLight to obtain clinical and laboratory parameters.

Results

The Mex3a promoter methylation level in HCC patients (median: 0.289% and interquartile range: 0.126%–0.590%) was significantly lower than that in CHB patients (median: 0.999%, interquartile range: 0.417%–1.268%, and p < 0.001) and healthy people (median: 2.172%, interquartile range: 1.225%–3.098%, and p < 0.001). The Mex3a mRNA levels in HCC patients (median: 12.198 and interquartile range: 3.112–18.996) were significantly higher than those in CHB patients (median: 1.623 and interquartile range: 0.066–6.000, and p < 0.001) and healthy controls (median: 0.329, interquartile range: 0.031–1.547, and p < 0.001). MethyLight data were expressed as a percentage of the methylated reference (PMR) value. The Mex3a PMR value was negatively correlated with the mRNA expression level (Spearman’s R = −0.829 and p < 0.001). The Mex3a PMR value of HCC patients was significantly correlated with age (Spearman’s R = 0.113 and p = 0.044), and the mRNA level was significantly correlated with ALT (Spearman’s R = 0.132 and p = 0.046). The Mex3a promoter methylation levels and mRNA levels were also independent factors in the development of liver cancer. The Mex3a promoter methylation and mRNA levels were better at distinguishing HCC from CHB than AFP [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for predicting HCC vs. CHB: 0.915 vs. 0.715: p < 0.001]. The combined use of AFP and Mex3a methylation levels and mRNA levels further improved the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Conclusion

The presence of Mex3a promoter hypomethylation in hepatocellular carcinoma can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for the early detection of liver cancer.
Exploring the therapeutic mechanisms of heart failure with Chinese herbal medicine: a focus on miRNA-mediated regulation
Authors: Wang Yang , Lai Junyu , Chen Zhengtao , Sun Liqiang , Ma Yirong , Wu Jianguang
Published: November 2024

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical condition caused by abnormalities in the heart’s structure or function, primarily manifested as diminished ability of the heart to pump blood, which leads to compensatory activation of neurohormones and increased left ventricular filling pressure. HF is one of the fastest-growing cardiovascular diseases globally in terms of incidence and mortality, negatively impacting patients’ quality of life and imposing significant medical and economic burdens. Despite advancements in the treatment of HF, hospitalization and mortality remain rates high. In China, Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has historically played a prominent role in addressing HF, with significant proven efficacy. MicroRNA (miRNA) exerts a pivotal regulatory influence on the maintenance of regular cardiac activity and the progression of HF. MiRNAs, a category of single-stranded RNA molecules, are characterized by their inability to code for proteins. They regulate gene expression by binding to the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of target mRNAs, thereby influencing the onset and progression of various diseases. Abnormal expression of specific miRNAs is closely associated with HF pathological processes, such as cardiomyocyte apoptosis, myocardial fibrosis, and cardiac hypertrophy. This abnormal expression can influence the pathological progression of HF through the regulation of miRNA expression. This article reviews the regulatory role of miRNAs in HF pathology discusses how CHM compounds and their active ingredients can ameliorate HF pathology through the regulation of miRNA expression. In conclusion, miRNAs represent promising therapeutic targets for HF, and CHM provides a novel strategy for treatment through the regulation of miRNA expression. Future studies must delve deeper into the precise mechanisms by which CHM modulates miRNAs and fully explore its potential for clinical application in HF treatment.
Toward understanding the dimensional crossover of canonical spin-glass thin films
Authors: Zhai Qiang , Orbach Raymond L.
Published: November 2024

Spin-glass thin films exhibit many features different from the bulk. The freezing temperatures of spin-glass films are suppressed for reduced thickness and follow the Kenning relation. The dynamics are altered near the vacuum interface. These phenomena are closely related to the lower critical dimension of spin glasses, the spin-glass correlation length, and the dimensional crossover from d = 3 to d = 2. In this article, we review the experimental facts and theoretical perspectives for spin-glass thin films. We focus on canonical spin-glass systems with the Ruderman–Kittel–Kasuya–Yosida (RKKY) interaction between magnetic impurities in a nonmagnetic host. Open questions to be addressed are emphasized.
Correlational study on the sense of humor and positive mental health in mental health professionals
Authors: Piñar-Rodríguez Sergi , Rodríguez-Martín Dolors , Corcoles-Martínez David , Tolosa-Merlos Diana , Leñero-Cirujano Miriam , Puig-Llobet Montse
Published: November 2024

Background

Mental health professionals require exceptional communication skills and the ability to maintain an empathetic and authentic attitude within the therapeutic relationship. It is crucial that they achieve an optimal balance of physical, mental, and social wellbeing to enhance their performance in this context. This necessity has sparked a growing interest in promoting mental health among these professionals by focusing on the evaluation of both Positive Mental Health and the Sense of Humor.

Objective

To assess the level of sense of humor and positive mental health, and to analyse the relationships between the sense of humor construct, the positive mental health construct, and the sociodemographic, occupational, and educational characteristics of mental health professionals who care for patients in hospital and community settings.

Methods

An observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional with a non-experimental quantitative approach study has been carried out. The study was conducted involving 130 mental health care professionals. Levels of sense of humor and positive mental health were evaluated using authenticated questionnaires, while the relationship between these two constructs and the sociodemographic, occupational, and training characteristics of health workers were analyzed following STROBE guidelines.

Results

The study involved 130 professionals, predominantly women (71.5%), with an average age of 41.4 years. The majority were nurses (45.4%) with varied work experience and educational levels. Regarding the PMHQ questionnaire, an average score of 102.6 was achieved in the general evaluation, showing an insignificant relationship with sociodemographic and occupational variables. However, a significant trend regarding age and autonomy was noted. On the other hand, the Multidimensional Sense of Humor Questionnaire produced an average score of 67.3, also without significant correlations with the variables under scrutiny. Although no positive relationships were found between the general scores of Positive Mental Health Questionnaire and Multidimensional Sense of Humor Questionnaire, a positive correlation emerged between the use of humor and situational control. In summary, the findings suggest that the level of autonomy and the use of humor may be associated with specific sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, although the precise relationship remains complex and requires further research.
Assessment of unintentional acute pesticide poisoning among smallholder vegetable farmers in Trinidad and Jamaica
Authors: Robinson Dwight E. , Stuart Alexander M. , Willis Sheila , Salmon Joey P. , Ramjattan Jeet , Ganpat Wayne , Williamson Stephanie , Tyrell Keith F. , Saravanakumar Duraisamy
Published: November 2024

Poisoning caused by pesticides is widely recognized as a major public health problem among smallholder farmers and rural communities, including in the Caribbean. However, a lack of quality data impedes understanding of the problem and hampers the development of effective strategies for its management. To better understand the prevalence of unintentional acute pesticide poisoning (UAPP) in Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica and the pesticides and practices involved, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of 197 and 330 vegetable farmers in Trinidad and Jamaica, respectively. The findings from this study revealed a high incidence of self-reported health effects from occupational pesticide exposure, with 48 and 16% of respondents, respectively, experiencing symptoms of UAPP within the previous 12 months. Furthermore, the substantial proportion of UAPP incidents were associated with a few highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs), particularly lambda-cyhalothrin, acetamiprid, and profenofos in Jamaica, and alpha-cypermethrin, paraquat and lambda-cyhalothrin in Trinidad. Given the well-documented adverse effects of these chemicals on human health, the results of this study should be of significant concern to health authorities in Jamaica and Trinidad. This clearly indicates an urgent need for improved regulation and safer alternatives to the use of HHPs, as well as the promotion of alternatives. We provide policy recommendations and identify alternatives to HHPs for tropical vegetable production.
Quasicrystalline 30° twisted bilayer graphene: fractal patterns and electronic localization properties
Authors: Vidarte Kevin J. U. , Lewenkopf Caio
Published: November 2024

The recently synthesized 30° twisted bilayer graphene (30°-TBG) systems are unique quasicrystal systems possessing dodecagonal symmetry with graphene’s relativistic properties. We employ a real-space numerical atomistic framework that respects both the dodecagonal rotational symmetry and the massless Dirac nature of the electrons to describe the local density of states of the system. The approach we employ is very efficiency for systems with very large unit cells and does not rely on periodic boundary conditions. These features allow us to address a broad class of multilayer two-dimensional crystal with incommensurate configurations, particularly TBGs. Our results reveal that the 30°-TBG electronic spectrum consist of extended states together with a set of localized wave functions. The localized states exhibit fractal patterns consistent with the quasicrystal tiling.
Study on improved control strategy of virtual synchronous generator
Authors: Li Ji , Yang Fan , Wang Huanmin , Chu Bingqing
Published: November 2024

Virtual synchronous generator (VSG) control technology for photovoltaic, energy storage, wind power, and other new energy to provide flexibility in the grid interface characteristics, is conducive to improving the stability of the power system, and has been widely considered by many scholars. Firstly, an improved VSG control method is proposed through simulation and analysis, which realizes the complete decoupling of the frequency response time constant and the inertia quantity of the active power control loop and reduces the complexity of the parameter design of the VSG system. Secondly, to avoid the frequent action of the VSG system caused by small-scale frequency change perturbation, this study proposes a VSG frequency optimization control method for VSG frequency control with rated angular velocity ωset feedforward composed of multivariate factors when considering a primary frequency regulation dead zone. Thirdly, the impact of VSG parameter design on the system is investigated through the system response characteristics of power scheduling, primary frequency regulation at the grid connection, and the small-signal dynamic characterization of the improved VSG. Finally, Simulation and experimental verification yielded an active power overshoot of 7% and a maximum frequency deviation of 0.17 Hz for the improved system. The improved control method resulted in an improvement of 0.1 s in the frequency response time and a reduction of 0.15 Hz in the oscillation amplitude. The response speed of the improved control method is much better, while the oscillation amplitude is reduced to meet the grid's regulation requirements. The simulation and experimental analysis verify the feasibility of the improved VSG control method.
Interventions to improve access to cancer care in underserved populations in high income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Santos Salas Anna , Bassah Nahyeni , Pujadas Botey Anna , Robson Paula , Beranek Julia , Iyiola Iqmat , Kennedy Megan
Published: November 2024

Background

Underserved populations both globally and in Canada face serious cancer inequities that result from systemic economic, environmental, and social conditions. These pose barriers in access to cancer care and lead to suboptimal cancer care experiences and outcomes. Knowledge of effective interventions to improve access to cancer care is needed to inform the design of tailored interventions for these populations.

Aim

To identify interventions and programs to improve access to cancer care for underserved populations in high income countries with universal health coverage (UHC) and the United States (US) throughout the cancer care continuum.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA standards. We searched Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria: quantitative and qualitative studies published in English in the last 10 years (2013–2023), describing interventions/programs to improve access to cancer care for underserved populations (18 years and over). We included studies in the US given the body of scholarship on equity in cancer care in that country. Screening, data extraction and analysis were undertaken by two independent reviewers.

Results

Our search yielded 7,549 articles, and 74 met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 56 were conducted in the US, 8 in Australia, 6 in Canada, and 4 in the United Kingdom. Most (90.5%) were quantitative studies and 47.3% were published between 2020–2023. Seven types of interventions were identified: patient navigation, education and counselling, virtual health, service redesign, financial support, improving geographical accessibility and multicomponent interventions. Interventions were mainly designed to mitigate language, distance, financial, lack of knowledge and cultural barriers. Most interventions focused on access to cancer screening, targeted rural populations, racialized groups and people with low socioeconomic status, and were conducted in community-based settings. The majority of interventions or programs significantly improved access to cancer care.

Conclusion

Our systematic review findings suggest that interventions designed to remove specific barriers faced by underserved populations can improve access to cancer care. Few studies came from countries with UHC. Research is required to understand tailored interventions for underserved populations in countries with UHC.
Automated Evaluation Method for Risk Behaviors of Quay Crane Operators at Ports Using Virtual Reality
Authors: He Mengjie , Zhang Yujie , Liu Yi , Shen Yang , Mi Chao
Published: November 2024

Currently, the operational risk assessment of quay crane operators at ports relies on manual evaluations based on experience, but this method lacks objectivity and fairness. As port throughput continues to grow, the port accident rate has also increased, making it crucial to scientifically evaluate the risk behaviors of operators and improve their safety awareness. This paper proposes an automated evaluation method based on a Deep Q-Network (DQN) to assess the risk behaviors of quay crane operators in virtual scenarios. A risk simulation module has been added to the existing automated quay crane remote operation simulation system to simulate potential risks during operations. Based on the collected data, a DQN-based benchmark model reflecting the operational behaviors and decision-making processes of skilled operators has been developed. This model enables a quantitative evaluation of operators’ behaviors, ensuring the objectivity and accuracy of the assessment process. The experimental results show that, compared with traditional manual scoring methods, the proposed method is more stable and objective, effectively reducing subjective biases and providing a reliable alternative to conventional manual evaluations. Additionally, this method enhances operators’ safety awareness and their ability to handle risks, helping them identify and avoid risks during actual operations, thereby ensuring both operational safety and efficiency.
Seafloor Topographic Data Processing in Near-Seafloor Acoustic Field Simulation
Authors: Ma Siyu , Zhang Yuxiang , Xie Zhinan , Li Jun
Published: November 2024

Near-seafloor acoustic field characteristics are essential prior knowledge for near-seafloor underwater acoustic engineering. Scholte waves are a crucial component of the near-seafloor acoustic fields. These fields, when considering Scholte waves, are susceptible to seafloor relief. However, open-source bathymetric datasets generally lack sufficient precision. Therefore, acoustic field simulations using open-source data can contain significant errors or even introduce erroneous propagation characteristics. The spectral element method (SEM) is an example of exploring the influence of an inadequate spatial-sampling rate and sea-depth precision on acoustic field simulations. In this article, appropriate methods for topographic processing are presented. The results indicate that the terrain can be corrected using cubic spline interpolation in cases of an inadequate spatial-sampling rate. Where there is insufficient sea-depth precision, this study proposes a terrain processing method. The first step involves sequentially determining the interpolation points for the rising and falling edge, depressions, bulges, and horizontal segments. Then, it adopts cubic spline interpolation. The SEM examples effectively verify this effect. Given the limited research on terrain correction in acoustic field simulations, this study introduces a low-complexity method that can effectively support exploring acoustic fields affected by seafloor terrain.
Attitude Control System for Quadrotor Using Robust Monte Carlo Model Predictive Control
Authors: Masuda Kai , Uchiyama Kenji
Published: November 2024

Monte Carlo Model Predictive Control (MCMPC) is a kind of non-linear Model Predictive Control (MPC) that determines control inputs using the Monte Carlo method. The Monte Carlo method used in MCMPC can handle discontinuous phenomena, and there have been reports of its application in control systems for quadrotors, where the objective is to maintain the stability of the attitude during collisions. However, as with conventional MPC, concerns remain about control performance degradation due to modeling errors and external disturbances such as unexpected wind gusts. In this study, we propose a novel Robust Monte Carlo Model Predictive Control (RMCMPC), which improves the robustness of MCMPC by considering the hypersurface known from the Sliding Mode Control (SMC) theory. The proposed RMCMPC is applied to a quadrotor attitude control system, and its effectiveness is validated through numerical simulations.
Organizational Support in Career Self-Management: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Martins Mariana , Taveira Maria do Céu , Magalhães Flávio , Silva Ana Daniela
Published: November 2024

The present study consists of a systematic literature review, based on the PRISMA model, with the objective of analyzing the relationship between organizational support and career self-management in order to address the gaps in the existing literature. Specifically, it seeks to answer whether organizational support influences career self-management behaviors and whether the inverse also occurs. To systematize the scientific knowledge on this topic over the past 13 years (2010–2023), three databases were consulted: Web of Science, Scopus, and Core. This research resulted from the combination of the keywords “career self-management” and “organizational support: and involved the screening of 353 studies. For the systematic literature review, a total of six studies were identified that met the established eligibility criteria. The main conclusions of this study are that organizational support, in the form of perceived organizational support, human resource management practices/perception of human resource management practices, and leader–member exchanges, appears to positively influence career self-management, as well as the inverse. Such evidence can be observed through the direct and indirect relationships established between the variables. This relationship leads, for example, to workers being more satisfied with their careers while also becoming more committed to the organization. Overall, this systematic literature review provides practical implications for organizations and their workers. It is suggested that future research should explore the relationship between career self-management and organizational support, as well as other potential mediators of this relationship.
Gender Bias in Residents’ Perceptions and Support of Rally Event Tourism: The Sierra Morena Rally of Córdoba, Spain
Authors: Ramos-Ruiz José E. , Solano-Sánchez Miguel Ángel , Castaño-Prieto Lucía , Aguilar-Rivero Minerva
Published: November 2024

Motorsports have become a tourism resource for certain territories. Knowledge about the perception of impact and the support residents provide for their celebration contributes to ensuring their long-term success. The academic literature has so far focused on large-scale events, leaving a gap in knowledge regarding small-scale events. This study addresses the case of the Sierra Morena Rally in Córdoba, Spain. It is based on the principles of Social Exchange Theory (SET) and Social Representation Theory (SRT) to explore a gender bias in the perception of impact and support for the event. Using a sample of 753 residents, an Exploratory Factor Analysis is conducted, and Mann–Whitney U and Hedges’ G statistics are applied. The results confirm the existence of a gender bias in perception, which is discussed in the context of previous case studies.
Linear Disturbance Observer-Enhanced Continuous-Time Predictive Control for Straight-Line Path-Following Control of Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Qi Weiwei , Tong Mingbo , Li Xubo , Wang Qi , Song Wei
Published: November 2024

This paper studies the straight-line path-following problem on the lateral plane for fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (FWUAVs) which are susceptible to uncertainties. Firstly, based on the natural frame’s location on the prescribed reference paths, the command yaw angle (which is the basis for yaw angle control system design) is solved analytically by combining it with the errors of path following, attack angle, sideslip angle, attitude angles, and geometric parameters of the prescribed reference paths. Secondly, by considering complicated dynamic characteristics, a linear extended state observer is designed to estimate uncertainties such as nonlinearities, couplings, and unmodeled dynamics whose estimated values are incorporated into the continuous-time predictive controllers for feedback compensation. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to demonstrate the advantages of the proposed method, including reduced tracking errors and enhanced robustness in the closed-loop system, as compared to the conventional nonlinear dynamic inversion and sliding mode control approaches.
Overview of Space-Based Laser Communication Missions and Payloads: Insights from the Autonomous Laser Inter-Satellite Gigabit Network (ALIGN)
Authors: Younus Othman I. , Riaz Amna , Binns Richard , Scullion Eamon , Wicks Robert , Vernon Jethro , Graham Chris , Bramall David , Schmoll Jurgen , Bourgenot Cyril
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the growing adoption of laser communication (lasercom) in space missions and payloads for identifying emerging trends and key technology drivers of future optical communications satellite systems. It also presents a comprehensive overview of commercially available and custom-designed lasercom terminals, outlining their characteristics and specifications to meet the evolving demands of global satellite networks. The analysis explores the technical considerations and challenges associated with integrating lasercom terminals into LEO constellations and the Inter-satellite communications service provision in LEO due to their power, size, and weight constraints. By analyzing advancements in CubeSat lasercom technology designed to cater for the emergence of future mega constellations of interacting small satellites, the paper underscores its promising role in establishing high-performance satellite communication networks for future space exploration and data transmission. In addition, a brief overview of our ALIGN planned mission is provided, which highlights the main key operational features in terms of PAT and link budget analysis.
Ballistic Fitting Impact Point Prediction Based on Improved Crayfish Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Yang Baolu , Wang Liangming , Fu Jian
Published: November 2024

To solve the problem of difficulty in predicting the impact point clearly and promptly during projectile flight, this paper proposes an improved ballistic-impact-point prediction method. A certain type of high-spinning tailed projectile is taken as the research object for online real-time landing point prediction research. This study comprehensively utilizes the real-time radar measurement data and the geomagnetic data measured by the bomb-carried geomagnetic sensor. It applies the four-degree-of-freedom ballistic model to predict the landing point. First, the roll angular velocity is calculated based on the geomagnetic data, after which the radar real-time measurement data are segmentally fitted using the improved crayfish algorithm. Then, the fitted parameters are substituted into the four-degree-of-freedom ballistic model. Finally, the C-K method is used to identify the aerodynamic parameters, and the identified aerodynamic parameters are used for fallout prediction. The simulation results show a small deviation between the predicted and actual impact points using the improved ballistic-impact-point prediction method.
Research on Triplex Redundant Flight Control System Based on M1394B Bus
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Yang Yu , Zhang Yu , Wu Liaoni , Guo Zhiming
Published: November 2024

In the modern aviation field, flight control systems’ reliability and safety are paramount. This paper presents a triplex redundant flight control system based on the M1394B bus and designs several key algorithms to enhance system performance. Firstly, a triplex redundant flight control system with a redundant bus structure is constructed based on the characteristics of the M1394B bus. Secondly, a periodic synchronization algorithm with automatic adjustment capabilities is designed to achieve periodic synchronization among the Vehicle Management Computers. An improved voting algorithm based on a sliding window is proposed to enhance the decision-making accuracy and reliability of the control commands output by the flight control system. Additionally, a system reconstruction algorithm is designed to promptly identify and isolate faults, enabling the recovery and reallocation of system resources. Finally, experiments validate the effectiveness of the synchronization algorithm, voting algorithm, and system reconstruction algorithm. The results indicate that the system can effectively address practical engineering challenges and significantly improve reliability and stability. This research provides an essential theoretical foundation and practical reference for the design of future flight control systems for unmanned aerial vehicles and aircraft, holding significant relevance to application.
Road Freight Demand Forecasting Using National Accounts’ Data—The Case of Cereals
Authors: Karasu Taha , Leviäkangas Pekka , Edwards David John
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the potential of utilising historical agricultural production data for enhancing road freight transport forecasting, focusing on cereal production. This study applies a multiple linear regression analysis using national statistical accounts and secondary data. The data were sourced from Finland’s Statistics Agency and the Natural Resources Institute. The analysis identifies an observable correlation between agricultural production and road freight volumes, although this correlation is not statistically significant. The highest adjusted R² observed in the models was 0.62. The analysis reveals that previous years’ production data can help forecast future road freight volumes, with vehicle mileage estimable from recent production and stock levels. Additionally, annual percentage changes in the volume of transported cereals can be partially predicted by the changes in total available cereals and opening stocks from two years prior. This exploratory research highlights the untapped predictive potential of agricultural production variables in forecasting road freight demand, suggesting areas for further forecasting enhancement.
Method for Obtaining High-Energy Feed Protein and Fat from Insects
Authors: Maltseva Tatyana , Pakhomov Viktor , Rudoy Dmitry , Olshevskaya Anastasiya , Babajanyan Arkady
Published: November 2024

Insects are a valuable and renewable source of feed and food protein and fat. They have an amino acid composition similar to that of fishmeal and meat, and can serve as a worthy replacement for them. The aim of this study was to substantiate the technological parameters of the process of obtaining fat from the Hermetia illucens larvae by a mechanical method on a screw press. A laboratory screw press was used for this research. Before squeezing out the fat, the dried larvae were moistened, crushed and heated in a microwave oven to a temperature of 60 °C. The fat from the larvae was squeezed out in a screw press at different larval moisture levels, screw speeds and cake outlets. The results of this study made it possible to obtain optimal technological parameters for obtaining fat on a screw press: a screw rotation speed of no more than 20 ± 5 rpm; a diameter of the hole for the cake outlet of no more than 7–10 mm; a mass fraction of moisture in the pressed material of 8 ± 2%. The obtained fat fraction was tested for one of the main indicators of fat quality—acid number. It was found that the variable factors do not have a significant effect on the acid number of fat, changing it within the normal range of 10 mg KOH per 1 g of fat, which makes it possible to obtain a good quality product.
Diagnosis of Custard Apple Disease Based on Adaptive Information Entropy Data Augmentation and Multiscale Region Aggregation Interactive Visual Transformers
Authors: Cui Kunpeng , Huang Jianbo , Dai Guowei , Fan Jingchao , Dewi Christine
Published: November 2024

Accurate diagnosis of plant diseases is crucial for crop health. This study introduces the EDA–ViT model, a Vision Transformer (ViT)-based approach that integrates adaptive entropy-based data augmentation for diagnosing custard apple (Annona squamosa) diseases. Traditional models like convolutional neural network and ViT face challenges with local feature extraction and large dataset requirements. EDA–ViT overcomes these by using a multi-scale weighted feature aggregation and a feature interaction module, enhancing both local and global feature extraction. The adaptive data augmentation method refines the training process, boosting accuracy and robustness. With a dataset of 8226 images, EDA–ViT achieved a classification accuracy of 96.58%, an F1 score of 96.10%, and a Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) of 92.24%, outperforming other models. The inclusion of the Deformable Multi-head Self-Attention (DMSA) mechanism further enhanced feature capture. Ablation studies revealed that the adaptive augmentation contributed to a 0.56% accuracy improvement and a 0.34% increase in MCC. In summary, EDA–ViT presents an innovative solution for custard apple disease diagnosis, with potential applications in broader agricultural disease detection, ultimately aiding precision agriculture and crop health management.
Vegetation Restoration Enhanced Canopy Interception and Soil Evaporation but Constrained Transpiration in Hekou–Longmen Section During 2000–2018
Authors: Han Peidong , Yang Guang , Liu Yangyang , Chen Xu , Wen Zhongming , Shi Haijing , Hu Ercha , Xue Tingyi , Zhao Yinghan
Published: November 2024

The quantitative assessment of the impact of vegetation restoration on evapotranspiration and its components is of great significance in developing sustainable ecological restoration strategies for water resources in a given region. In this study, we used the Priestley-Taylor Jet Pro-pulsion Laboratory (PT-JPL) to simulate the ET components in the Helong section (HLS) of the Yellow River basin. The effects of vegetation restoration on ET and its components, vegetation transpiration (Et), soil evaporation (Es), and canopy interception evaporation (Ei) were separated by manipulating model variables. Our findings are as follows: (1) The simulation results are compared with the ET calculated by water balance and the annual average ET of MODIS products. The R2 of the validation results are 0.61 and 0.78, respectively. The results show that the PT-JPL model tracks the change in ET in the HLS well. During 2000–2018, the ET, Ei, and Es increased at a rate of 1.33, 0.87, and 2.99 mm/a, respectively, while the Et decreased at a rate of 2.52 mm/a. (2) Vegetation restoration increased the annual ET in the region from 331.26 mm (vegetation-unchanged scenario) to 338.85 mm (vegetation change scenario) during the study period, an increase of 2.3%. (3) TMP (temperature) and VPD (vapor pressure deficit) were the dominant factors affecting ET changes in most areas of the HLS. In more than 37.2% of the HLS, TMP dominated the change affecting ET, and vapor pressure difference (VPD) dominated the area affecting ET in 30.5% of the HLS. Overall, the precipitation (PRE) and VPD were the main factors affecting ET changes. Compared with previous studies that directly explore the relationship between many influencing factors and ET results through correlation research methods, our study uses control variables to obtain results under two different scenarios and then performs difference analysis. This method can reduce the excessive interference of influencing factors other than vegetation changes on the research results. Our findings can provide strategic support for future water resource management and sustainable vegetation restoration in the HLS region.
Effects of Organic Fertilizer Replacing Some Nitrogen Fertilizers on the Structure and Diversity of Inter-Root Soil Fungal Communities in Potato
Authors: Chen Songhu , Zhao Zhenhua , Hu Xinyuan , Dong Bo , Zhang Pingliang , Liu Xiaowei , Xie Kuizhong , Du Dandan , Sun Xiaohua , Ma Jiaying , Li Jinyu , Ren Xiaoyan
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of organic fertilizer replacing part of the nitrogen fertilizers on the structure and diversity of the inter-root soil fungal communities of potatoes. By carrying out a field trial in Gaoquan Village, Tuanjie Town, Dingxi City, Gansu Province, the main potato-producing area in China, the optimal proportion of organic fertilizer to replace nitrogen fertilizer was determined to provide a scientific basis for the rational use of organic fertilizer to improve the structure and function of soil fungal communities. The experiment was laid out with six treatments: CK (no nitrogen fertilizer, phosphate and potash fertilizer applied), CF (nitrogen fertilizer alone, control), T1 (25% replacement of nitrogen fertilizer), T2 (50% replacement of nitrogen fertilizer), T3 (75% replacement of nitrogen fertilizer), and T4 (100% replacement of nitrogen fertilizer). A systematic study of the inter-root soil fungal community structure, diversity, and soil physicochemical properties during potato harvesting was conducted using high-throughput sequencing technology. The results show that the organic fertilizer replacing part of the nitrogen fertilizer significantly increased the content of alkaline dissolved nitrogen, quick-acting potassium, quick-acting phosphorus, and organic matter in the inter-root soil of the potatoes, and significantly reduced the pH value of the soil. There was a trend of decreasing soil fungal abundance and a significant decrease in the Alpha diversity of the soil fungi. The treatment groups in the soil had as their core fungi Acomycota, Mortierellomycota, Basidiomycota, and others. The organic fertilizers replacing the nitrogen fertilizers significantly altered the structural composition of the inter-root soil fungal community of the potatoes, and increased the differential fungi in the soil. The number of functionally diverse and complex fungi in the soil gradually increased, and the function of the fungal community gradually changed from Singularity to diversification and complexity. A redundancy analysis showed that the soil pH was the main environmental factor affecting the inter-root soil fungal communities of potatoes under organic fertilizer replacing N fertilizer.
A Farming System Approach to Exploring Drivers of Food Insecurity Among Farm Households in Developing Countries: The Case Study of Mozambique
Authors: Abbas Máriam , Ribeiro Paulo Flores , Santos José Lima
Published: November 2024

Farm households, especially in developing countries, are among the most vulnerable to food insecurity and poverty. A farming system approach is largely recognized to play an important role in supporting strategies to improve food security and alleviate poverty among farm households. This paper aims at exploring the drivers of food insecurity among farm households in developing countries, using a farming system approach. It also aims to explore farm households’ perceptions regarding the causes of food shortages and the adopted coping strategies, and how these vary across farming systems. This analysis was based on data extracted from an agricultural census, which were analyzed through scatter plots and plot means with 95% confidence intervals. The results indicate that the factors analyzed (level of specialization, market integration, use of yield-raising and labor-saving inputs, farm size, population density, and rainfall) are important drivers explaining food insecurity among farm households, highlighting important differences across farming systems. The analysis also showed that farm households’ perceptions regarding the causes of food shortages are related with the abovementioned drivers of food insecurity. Our findings suggest that less specialized farming systems with better access to markets, using yield-raising and/or labor-saving inputs, are more likely to be food secure. The farming system approach proved to be a useful approach to explore food insecurity drivers and coping strategies as well as to support policymaking. Moreover, the use of an agricultural census data provides an easily attainable tool to access and analyze farm-level data for policy analysis and to explore and understand a range of issues affecting farm households in developing countries.
Influence of Crop Residue Management on Maize Production Potential
Authors: Korczyk-Szabó Joanna , Macák Milan , Jarecki Wacław , Sterczyńska Monika , Jug Daniel , Pużyńska Katarzyna , Hromadová Ľubomíra , Habán Miroslav
Published: November 2024

Residue management at the farm level is essential for ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity. This field experiment, initiated in 2005, provides maize data from 2016 to 2018. This study evaluates the impact of crop residue management and fertilization on maize yield and yield components. Maize was grown in a crop rotation sequence consisting of field pea (Pisum sativum L.), durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.), milk thistle (Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn.), and maize (Zea mays L.). The measures studied include aboveground biomass removal (K), aboveground biomass incorporation (R), mineral fertilizer application (F), and their combination (RF). The results indicate that R and RF significantly improve yield parameters, such as kernel number per ear (KNE), thousand seed weight (TSW), stalk yield, and harvest index (HI), compared to control (K) or aboveground biomass incorporation alone (R). Grain yield varied across the years, with significant increases being observed for the fertilizer treatments, particularly when combined with straw or stalk incorporation. A nominal increase in grain yield of 1.43 t ha−1 for the F treatment and 1.86 t ha−1 for the RF treatment represents an increase of 39% to 51% compared to K and R. Strong positive correlations were observed between grain yield and several factors, including ears per hectare (0.61), KNE (0.94), TSW (0.61), and HI (0.85). These findings underscore the role of crop residue management and promoting sustainable crop production.
Adaptive Exploration Artificial Bee Colony for Mathematical Optimization
Authors: Alsamia Shaymaa , Koch Edina , Albedran Hazim , Ray Richard
Published: November 2024

The artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm is a famous swarm intelligence method utilized across various disciplines due to its robustness. However, it exhibits limitations in exploration mechanisms, particularly in high-dimensional or complex landscapes. This article introduces the adaptive exploration artificial bee colony (AEABC), a novel variant that reinspires the ABC algorithm based on real-world phenomena. AEABC incorporates new distance-based parameters and mechanisms to correct the original design, enhancing its robustness. The performance of AEABC was evaluated against 33 state-of-the-art metaheuristics across twenty-five benchmark functions and an engineering application. AEABC consistently outperformed its counterparts, demonstrating superior efficiency and accuracy. In a variable-sized problem (n = 10), the traditional ABC algorithm converged to 3.086 × 106, while AEABC achieved a convergence of 2.0596 × 10−255, highlighting its robust performance. By addressing the shortcomings of the traditional ABC algorithm, AEABC significantly advances mathematical optimization, especially in engineering applications. This work underscores the significance of the inspiration of the traditional ABC algorithm in enhancing the capabilities of swarm intelligence.
Enhancing Medical Image Classification with Unified Model Agnostic Computation and Explainable AI
Authors: Neghawi Elie , Liu Yan
Published: November 2024

Background: Advances in medical image classification have recently benefited from general augmentation techniques. However, these methods often fall short in performance and interpretability. Objective: This paper applies the Unified Model Agnostic Computation (UMAC) framework specifically to the medical domain to demonstrate its utility in this critical area. Methods: UMAC is a model-agnostic methodology designed to develop machine learning approaches that integrate seamlessly with various paradigms, including self-supervised, semi-supervised, and supervised learning. By unifying and standardizing computational models and algorithms, UMAC ensures adaptability across different data types and computational environments while incorporating state-of-the-art methodologies. In this study, we integrate UMAC as a plug-and-play module within convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and Transformer architectures, enabling the generation of high-quality representations even with minimal data. Results: Our experiments across nine diverse 2D medical image datasets show that UMAC consistently outperforms traditional data augmentation methods, achieving a 1.89% improvement in classification accuracy. Conclusions: Additionally, by incorporating explainable AI (XAI) techniques, we enhance model transparency and reliability in decision-making. This study highlights UMAC’s potential as a powerful tool for improving both the performance and interpretability of medical image classification models.
The Role of Bacterial Toxins and Environmental Factors in the Development of Food Allergies
Authors: Unar Ahsanullah , Qureshi Muqaddas , Afridi Hassan Imran , Wassan Shafkatullah
Published: November 2024

Food allergies (FAs) represent a significant and growing global health issue, with increasing prevalence across different age groups. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the epidemiology, mechanisms, and risk factors involved in FA development. Currently, FAs are estimated to affect 2% of the general population, with higher rates in children (~8%). However, these figures may be inaccurate because of the reliance on self-reported data and immunoglobulin E (IgE) testing, which may not reflect clinically confirmed cases. Environmental and genetic factors, including exposure to bacterial toxins, dietary habits, and the gut microbiota, play critical roles in FA development. Specifically, Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxins are implicated in disrupting intestinal barriers and enhancing immune sensitization to allergenic proteins. This immune dysregulation promotes Th2 responses and compromises regulatory T cell function, crucial elements in allergy pathogenesis. As the prevalence of FAs continues to rise, there is a pressing need for accurate diagnostic tools, heightened public awareness, and effective prevention strategies. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific role of bacterial toxins and other environmental factors in FA development to advance clinical management approaches.
Association Between the Duration of Diarrhea and the Length of Hospitalization Among Clostridioides difficile Patients in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Adesoji Ayodele T. , Mgbere Osaro , Darkoh Charles
Published: November 2024

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has categorized Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) as a significant concern in extended-care facilities, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. However, little is known about CDI in low- and middle-income countries. This study determined CDI prevalence and impact in outpatient adults presenting with diarrhea in Nigeria. Toxigenic culture and PCR were used to detect and validate C. difficile. Prior antibiotic use, medical history, and demographic data were also obtained. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The patient demographics were 35.48% (22/62) for the 18–24 years age group and 32.26% (20/62) for both the 25–30 years age group and the 31+ years group, with an average age of 29.7 years. Forty-eight percent of the patients (30/62) tested positive for CDI, and the prevalence increased with age. Most patients (86.67%, 52/60) reported moderate/severe cases of diarrhea and 67.7% had no knowledge of antibiotics. The results showed that 62.30% of the cases were hospitalized with the duration of diarrhea being significantly associated (r = 0.98, p ˂ 0.001) with the length of hospitalization. These results suggest that C. difficile is common among diarrhea patients in this population and that Nigerian hospitals’ infection prevention and control measures must include this pathogen.