bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Online Art Search through Quantitative Behavioral Data and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Pergantis Minas , Kouretsis Alexandros , Giannakoulopoulos Andreas
Published: April 2023

Studying searcher behavior has been a cornerstone of search engine research for decades, since it can lead to a better understanding of user needs and allow for an improved user experience. Going beyond descriptive data analysis and statistics, studies have been utilizing the capabilities of Machine Learning to further investigate how users behave during general purpose searching. But the thematic content of a search greatly affects many aspects of user behavior, which often deviates from general purpose search behavior. Thus, in this study, emphasis is placed specifically on the fields of Art and Cultural Heritage. Insights derived from behavioral data can help Culture and Art institutions streamline their online presence and allow them to better understand their user base. Existing research in this field often focuses on lab studies and explicit user feedback, but this study takes advantage of real usage quantitative data and its analysis through machine learning. Using data collected by real world usage of the Art Boulevard proprietary search engine for content related to Art and Culture and through the means of Machine Learning-powered tools and methodologies, this article investigates the peculiarities of Art-related online searches. Through clustering, various archetypes of Art search sessions were identified, thus providing insight on the variety of ways in which users interacted with the search engine. Additionally, using extreme Gradient boosting, the metrics that were more likely to predict the success of a search session were documented, underlining the importance of various aspects of user activity for search success. Finally, through applying topic modeling on the textual information of user-clicked results, the thematic elements that dominated user interest were investigated, providing an overview of prevalent themes in the fields of Art and Culture. It was established that preferred results revolved mostly around traditional visual Art themes, while academic and historical topics also had a strong presence.
Gut Microbiota and Behavioural Issues in Production, Performance, and Companion Animals: A Systematic Review
Authors: Homer Bonnie , Judd Jackson , Mohammadi Dehcheshmeh Manijeh , Ebrahimie Esmaeil , Trott Darren J.
Published: April 2023

The literature has identified poor nutrition as the leading factor in the manifestation of many behavioural issues in animals, including aggression, hyperalertness, and stereotypies. Literature focused on all species of interest consistently reported that although there were no significant differences in the richness of specific bacterial taxa in the microbiota of individual subjects with abnormal behaviour (termed alpha diversity), there was variability in species diversity between these subjects compared to controls (termed beta diversity). As seen in humans with mental disorders, animals exhibiting abnormal behaviour often have an enrichment of pro-inflammatory and lactic acid-producing bacteria and a reduction in butyrate-producing bacteria. It is evident from the literature that an association exists between gut microbiota diversity (and by extension, the concurrent production of microbial metabolites) and abnormal behavioural phenotypes across various species, including pigs, dogs, and horses. Similar microbiota population changes are also evident in human mental health patients. However, there are insufficient data to identify this association as a cause or effect. This review provides testable hypotheses for future research to establish causal relationships between gut microbiota and behavioural issues in animals, offering promising potential for the development of novel therapeutic and/or preventative interventions aimed at restoring a healthy gut-brain-immune axis to mitigate behavioural issues and, in turn, improve health, performance, and production in animals.
Controversial Topics in Animal Welfare in Latin America: A Focus on the Legislation Surrounding the Human-Companion Animal Relationship and Animals Used for Recreational Practices
Authors: Mota-Rojas Daniel , Strappini Ana , Whittaker Alexandra L. , Ghezzi Marcelo , Titto Cristiane Gonçalves , Calderón-Maldonado Néstor , Mora-Medina Patricia , Domínguez-Oliva Adriana , Gómez-Prado Jocelyn , Hernández-Ávalos Ismael , José-Pérez Nancy , Casas-Alvarado Alejandro , Orihuela Agustín
Published: April 2023

Animal welfare is a societally relevant issue that is globally attracting increased attention. This is in addition to the importance placed on welfare for the animals themselves. However, the content and application of laws protecting animals’ welfare vary across countries. In Latin America, there are a range of common practices or activities involving certain animal species, many of which are legal, that can impair an animal’s quality of life. These include the performance of aesthetic surgical procedures; bull-, cock-, and dog fighting; and the existence of circuses that exhibit animals. The extent and impact of these practices being dependent on the socioeconomic, cultural, territorial, and regulatory landscape of each country. Particularly, Ibero-American regions face welfare challenges that might be influenced by traditions and relevant legal gaps. The objective of this article is to review controversial practices carried out in companion and entertainment animals in Latin America, with a focus on legal aspects, as well as the current efforts being made to address and incorporate global welfare standards into domestic and wild animal practice and regulation.
Maternal and Neonatal Factors Modulating Breast Milk Cytokines in the First Month of Lactation
Authors: Ramiro-Cortijo David , Herranz Carrillo Gloria , Singh Pratibha , Rebollo-Hernanz Miguel , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Pilar , Ruvira Santiago , Martín-Trueba María , Martin Camilia R. , Arribas Silvia M.
Published: April 2023

Breast milk (BM) cytokines support and modulate infant immunity, being particularly relevant in premature neonates with adverse outcomes (NAO). This study aimed to examine, in a cohort of Spanish breastfeeding women, changes in BM cytokines in the first month of lactation, their modulation by neonatal factors (sex, gestational age, and NAO), maternal factors (obstetric complications, C-section, and diet), and their relationship with oxidative status. Sixty-three mother-neonate dyads were studied at days 7 and 28 of lactation. Dietary habits were assessed by a 72-h dietary recall, and the maternal dietary inflammatory index (mDII) was calculated. BM cytokines (IL-10, IL-13, IL-8, MCP-1, and TNFα) were assessed by ultra-sensitive chemiluminescence. Total antioxidant capacity was assessed by the ABTS method and lipid peroxidation by the MDA+HNE kit. From days 7 to 28 of lactation, the levels of IL-10 and TNFα remained stable, while IL-13 increased (β = 0.85 ± 0.12, p < 0.001) and IL-8 and MCP-1 levels decreased (β = −0.64 ± 0.27, p = 0.019; β = −0.98 ± 0.22, p < 0.001; respectively). Antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation also decrease during lactation. Neonatal sex did not influence any of the cytokines, but BM from mothers with male infants had a higher antioxidant capacity. Gestational age was associated with male sex and NAO, being inversely correlated with the BM proinflammatory cytokines IL-8, MCP-1, and TNFα. From days 7 to 28 of lactation, BM from women with NAO infants increased MCP-1 levels and had a larger drop in antioxidant capacity, with the opposite trend in lipid peroxidation. MCP-1 was also significantly higher in women undergoing C-section; this cytokine declined in women who decreased mDII during lactation, while IL-10 increased. Linear mixed regression models evidenced that the most important factors modulating BM cytokines were lactation period and gestational age. In conclusion, during the first month of lactation, BM cytokines shift towards an anti-inflammatory profile, influenced mainly by prematurity. BM MCP-1 is associated with maternal and neonatal inflammatory processes.
CORM-A1 Alleviates Pro-Atherogenic Manifestations via miR-34a-5p Downregulation and an Improved Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Vyas Hitarthi S. , Jadeja Ravirajsinh N. , Vohra Aliasgar , Upadhyay Kapil K. , Thounaojam Menaka C. , Bartoli Manuela , Devkar Ranjitsinh V.
Published: April 2023

Atherogenesis involves multiple cell types undergoing robust metabolic processes resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), and consequent oxidative stress. Carbon monoxide (CO) has been recently explored for its anti-atherogenic potency; however, the effects of CO on ROS generation and mitochondrial dysfunction in atherosclerosis remain unexplored. Herein, we describe the anti-atherogenic efficacy of CORM-A1, a CO donor, in in vitro (ox-LDL-treated HUVEC and MDMs) and in vivo (atherogenic diet-fed SD rats) experimental models. In agreement with previous data, we observed elevated miR-34a-5p levels in all our atherogenic model systems. Administration of CO via CORM-A1 accounted for positive alterations in the expression of miR-34a-5p and transcription factors/inhibitors (P53, NF-κB, ZEB1, SNAI1, and STAT3) and DNA methylation pattern, thereby lowering its countenance in atherogenic milieu. Inhibition of miR-34a-5p expression resulted in restoration of SIRT-1 levels and of mitochondrial biogenesis. CORM-A1 supplementation further accounted for improvement in cellular and mitochondrial antioxidant capacity and subsequent reduction in ROS. Further and most importantly, CORM-A1 restored cellular energetics by improving overall cellular respiration in HUVECs, as evidenced by restored OCR and ECAR rates, whereas a shift from non-mitochondrial to mitochondrial respiration was observed in atherogenic MDMs, evidenced by unaltered glycolytic respiration and maximizing OCR. In agreement with these results, CORM-A1 treatment also accounted for elevated ATP production in both in vivo and in vitro experimental models. Cumulatively, our studies demonstrate for the first time the mechanism of CORM-A1-mediated amelioration of pro-atherogenic manifestations through inhibition of miR-34a-5p expression in the atherogenic milieu and consequential rescue of SIRT1-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis and respiration.
Isolation of Biologically Active Compounds from Cannabis sativa L. Inflorescences by Using Different Extraction Solvents and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Motiejauskaitė Dovilė , Ullah Sana , Kundrotaitė Algimanta , Žvirdauskienė Renata , Bakšinskaitė Aušra , Barčauskaitė Karolina
Published: April 2023

Hemp inflorescences are a source of vital compounds, including phytocannabinoids and other biologically active compounds. Various methods are adapted for the extraction of these vital compounds such as the use of different organic solvents. This study aimed to assess the comparative extraction potential of three different solvents: deionized water, 70% methanol (MeOH), and 2% Triton X-100, for phytochemicals in hemp inflorescences. Spectrophotometric techniques were applied to investigate the total amount of polyphenolic compounds (TPC), total flavonoids contents (TF), phenolic acids (TPA), and radical scavenging activity (RSA) in hemp extracts obtained using different polarity solvents. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used for cannabinoids and organic acids quantitative analysis. In the results, MeOH showed a better affinity for the recovery of TFC, TPA, and RSA in comparison to Triton X-100 and water. However, Triton X-100 performed better for TPC with 4-folds and 33% turnover compared to water and MeOH, respectively. Six cannabinoids (CBDVA, CBL, CBD, CBC, CBN, and CBG) were identified in hemp inflorescence extracts. The maximum determined concentration was as follows: CBD > CBC > CBG > CBDVA > CBL > CBN. Overall, fourteen organic acids were identified. Hemp inflorescence extracts obtained using 2% Triton X-100 showed an effect on all tested strains of microorganisms. Methanolic and aqueous extracts had antimicrobial activity against seven tested strains. On the other hand, the inhibition zones were wider for methanolic extracts compared to aqueous ones. Hemp aqua extract with antimicrobial activity might be used in various markets where toxic solvents are unwanted.
Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress Mediates Bradyarrhythmia in Leigh Syndrome Mitochondrial Disease Mice
Authors: Chen Biyi , Daneshgar Nastaran , Lee Hsiang-Chun , Song Long-Sheng , Dai Dao-Fu
Published: April 2023

Mitochondrial oxidative stress has been implicated in aging and several cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure and cardiomyopathy, ventricular tachycardia, and atrial fibrillation. The role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in bradyarrhythmia is less clear. Mice with a germline deletion of Ndufs4 subunit respiratory complex I develop severe mitochondrial encephalomyopathy resembling Leigh Syndrome (LS). Several types of cardiac bradyarrhythmia are present in LS mice, including a frequent sinus node dysfunction and episodic atrioventricular (AV) block. Treatment with the mitochondrial antioxidant Mitotempo or mitochondrial protective peptide SS31 significantly ameliorated the bradyarrhythmia and extended the lifespan of LS mice. Using an ex vivo Langendorff perfused heart with live confocal imaging of mitochondrial and total cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), we showed increased ROS in the LS heart, which was potentiated by ischemia-reperfusion. A simultaneous ECG recording showed a sinus node dysfunction and AV block concurrent with the severity of the oxidative stress. Treatment with Mitotempo abolished ROS and restored the sinus rhythm. Our study reveals robust evidence of the direct mechanistic roles of mitochondrial and total ROS in bradyarrhythmia in the setting of LS mitochondrial cardiomyopathy. Our study also supports the potential clinical application of mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants or SS31 for the treatment of LS patients.
Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Disk Abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) Caused by Water Temperature and pH Changes
Authors: Kim Min Ju , Kim Jin A , Lee Dae-Won , Park Young-Su , Kim Jun-Hwan , Choi Cheol Young
Published: April 2023

Ocean warming and acidification can induce oxidative stress in marine species, resulting in cellular damage and apoptosis. However, the effects of pH and water temperature conditions on oxidative stress and apoptosis in disk abalone are poorly understood. This study investigated, for the first time, the effects of different water temperatures (15, 20, and 25 °C) and pH levels (7.5 and 8.1) on oxidative stress and apoptosis in disk abalone by estimating levels of H2O2, malondialdehyde (MDA), dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and the apoptosis-related gene caspase-3. We also visually confirmed apoptotic effects of different water temperatures and pH levels via in situ hybridization and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assays. The levels of H2O2, MDA, SOD, CAT, and caspase-3 increased under low/high water temperature and/or low pH conditions. Expression of the genes was high under high temperature and low pH conditions. Additionally, the apoptotic rate was high under high temperatures and low pH conditions. These results indicate that changes in water temperature and pH conditions individually and in combination trigger oxidative stress in abalone, which can induce cell death. Specifically, high temperatures induce apoptosis by increasing the expression of the apoptosis-related gene caspase-3.
Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins: An Updated Review of Their Natural Sources, Synthesis, and Potentials
Authors: Nie Fanxuan , Liu Lili , Cui Jiamin , Zhao Yuquan , Zhang Dawei , Zhou Dinggang , Wu Jinfeng , Li Bao , Wang Tonghua , Li Mei , Yan Mingli
Published: April 2023

Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs), as a class of compounds widely found in plants, are particularly abundant in grapes and blueberries. It is a polymer comprising many different monomers, such as catechins and epicatechins. The monomers are usually linked to each other by two types of links, A-linkages (C-O-C) and B-linkages (C-C), to form the polymers. Numerous studies have shown that compared to high polymeric procyanidins, OPCs exhibit antioxidant properties due to the presence of multiple hydroxyl groups. This review describes the molecular structure and natural source of OPCs, their general synthesis pathway in plants, their antioxidant capacity, and potential applications, especially the anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, cardiovascular disease prevention, and antineoplastic functions. Currently, OPCs have attracted much attention, being non-toxic and natural antioxidants of plant origin that scavenge free radicals from the human body. This review would provide some references for further research on the biological functions of OPCs and their application in various fields.
Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Therapy in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Poyatos Paula , Gratacós Miquel , Samuel Kay , Orriols Ramon , Tura-Ceide Olga
Published: April 2023

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive disease characterized by elevated artery pressures and pulmonary vascular resistance. Underlying mechanisms comprise endothelial dysfunction, pulmonary artery remodeling and vasoconstriction. Several studies have shown evidence of the critical role of oxidative stress in PH pathophysiology. Alteration of redox homeostasis produces excessive generation of reactive oxygen species, inducing oxidative stress and the subsequent alteration of biological molecules. Exacerbations in oxidative stress production can lead to alterations in nitric oxide signaling pathways, contributing to the proliferation of pulmonary arterial endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, inducing PH development. Recently, antioxidant therapy has been suggested as a novel therapeutic strategy for PH pathology. However, the favorable outcomes observed in preclinical studies have not been consistently reproduced in clinical practice. Therefore, targeting oxidative stress as a therapeutic intervention for PH is an area that is still being explored. This review summarizes the contribution of oxidative stress to the pathogenesis of the different types of PH and suggests antioxidant therapy as a promising strategy for PH treatment.
Phase-Modulated Continuous-Wave Coherent Ranging Method and Anti-Interference Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Mingshi , Wang Yubing , Hu Qian , Zhao Shuhua , Liang Lei , Chen Yongyi , Lei Yuxin , Qiu Cheng , Jia Peng , Song Yue , Qin Li , Wang Lijun
Published: April 2023

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) has been applied in many areas because of its excellent performance. An easily achievable, cost-effective, and high-performance ranging method is a major challenge of LiDAR. Meanwhile, with the increasing applications of LiDAR, numerous LiDARs can be made to operate simultaneously, and potential interference is inevitable. Therefore, immunity against interference is paramount in LiDAR systems. In this paper, we demonstrated a ranging method referred to as phase-modulated continuous-wave (PhMCW). A detection range of 50 m and a ranging error of 2.2 cm are achieved. A one-dimensional scanning LiDAR system that is capable of detecting targets at 28 m is built, demonstrating the validation of the PhMCW method. Moreover, we propose a quantitative method for evaluating the anti-interference capability of lidar systems. The p-values of the Ljung–Box test were 0.0589 and 0.6327 for ToF and coherent LiDAR interferences, respectively, indicating that the PhMCW system is immune to interference. The proposed method can be applied to all types of LiDAR systems, regardless of the ranging method or beam-steering technique used.
Correlation of the Diffusion Parameters and the Biological Activities in the Formulation of Pinus halepensis Essential Oil in Phosphogypsum Material
Authors: Abdoul-Latif Fatouma Mohamed , Ejjabraoui Mohammed , Ainane Ayoub , Hachi Touria , Mohamed Jalludin , Oumaskour Khadija , Boujaber Nabila , El Montassir Zineb , Ainane Tarik
Published: April 2023

The use of natural biopesticides, specifically essential oils, is being explored as an alternative solution to protect stored foodstuffs. This study focuses on a formulation of phosphogypsum–Pinus halepensis essential oil as a pesticidal product. First, the essential oil chemical composition was determined using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), while the phosphogypsum (waste from the phosphate mining industry) was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric–differential thermal analysis; thus, physico-chemical properties and heavy metal contents were determined. In a second step, the preparation of the formulation consists in grafting the essential oil on the phosphogypsum (adsorption) in a cylindrical geometric shape adapted to the models applied in the bioprocesses of storage. The study of essential oil transfers in the material in the case of desorption along the axis (Oz) was carried out using analytical and numerical models of the Fickian diffusion process to understand the behavior of the oil and determine physicochemical parameters such as diffusivity (D) and evaporation flux (F). By using statistical methods such as experimental design and principal component analysis, these parameters can help explain the mechanisms involved in the insecticidal activities against the primary pest of lentils (Bruchus signaticornis) and in the parameters of lentil seed germination.
Cross-Modal Image Registration via Rasterized Parameter Prediction for Object Tracking
Authors: Zhang Qing , Xiang Wei
Published: April 2023

Object tracking requires heterogeneous images that are well registered in advance, with cross-modal image registration used to transform images of the same scene generated by different sensors into the same coordinate system. Infrared and visible light sensors are the most widely used in environmental perception; however, misaligned pixel coordinates in cross-modal images remain a challenge in practical applications of the object tracking task. Traditional feature-based approaches can only be applied in single-mode scenarios, and cannot be well extended to cross-modal scenarios. Recent deep learning technology employs neural networks with large parameter scales for prediction of feature points for image registration. However, supervised learning methods require numerous manually aligned images for model training, leading to the scalability and adaptivity problems. The Unsupervised Deep Homography Network (UDHN) applies Mean Absolute Error (MAE) metrics for cost function computation without labelled images; however, it is currently inapplicable for cross-modal image registration. In this paper, we propose aligning infrared and visible images using a rasterized parameter prediction algorithm with similarity measurement evaluation. Specifically, we use Cost Volume (CV) to predict registration parameters from coarse-grained to fine-grained layers with a raster constraint for multimodal feature fusion. In addition, motivated by the utilization of mutual information in contrastive learning, we apply a cross-modal similarity measurement algorithm for semi-supervised image registration. Our proposed method achieves state-of-the-art performance on the MS-COCO and FLIR datasets.
A REM Update Methodology Based on Clustering and Random Forest
Authors: Camana Mario R. , Garcia Carla E. , Hwang Taewoong , Koo Insoo
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we propose a radio environment map (REM) update methodology based on clustering and machine learning for indoor coverage. We use real measurements collected by the TurtleBot3 mobile robot using the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) as a measure of link quality between transmitter and receiver. We propose a practical framework for timely updates to the REM for dynamic wireless communication environments where we need to deal with variations in physical element distributions, environmental factors, movements of people and devices, and so on. In the proposed approach, we first rely on a historical dataset from the area of interest, which is used to determine the number of clusters via the K-means algorithm. Next, we divide the samples from the historical dataset into clusters, and we train one random forest (RF) model with the corresponding historical data from each cluster. Then, when new data measurements are collected, these new samples are assigned to one cluster for a timely update of the RF model. Simulation results validate the superior performance of the proposed scheme, compared with several well-known ML algorithms and a baseline scheme without clustering.
Research on Demand-Based Scheduling Scheme of Urban Low-Altitude Logistics UAVs
Authors: Zhang Honghai , Wu Shixin , Feng Ouge , Tian Tian , Huang Yuting , Zhong Gang
Published: April 2023

Aiming at the problem of the scheduling scheme of urban low-altitude logistics unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), this paper establishes a demand-based UAV scheduling scheme model using an improved simulated annealing algorithm, taking minimizing the cost of distribution as the objective function and considering restrictions such as UAV performance constraints, airspace constraints, and distribution constraints, among others. For verification, actual express data and airspace constraints in Shanghai are taken as examples. Two urban air traffic networks are constructed using road and building data. The analysis results show that the planning scheme of this model is superior to other forecasting models in terms of delivery cost and delivery time. In addition, this model can flexibly calculate the optimal scheduling scheme under the constraints of multiple parameters, according to the requirements of delivery volume, delivery distance, UAV performance, etc.
Squat Detection and Estimation for Railway Switches and Crossings Utilising Unsupervised Machine Learning
Authors: Zuo Yang , Lundberg Jan , Chandran Praneeth , Rantatalo Matti
Published: April 2023

Switches and crossings (S&Cs) are also known as turnouts or railway points. They are important assets in railway infrastructures and a defect in such a critical asset might lead to a long delay for the railway network and decrease the quality of service. A squat is a common rail head defect for S&Cs and needs to be detected and monitored as early as possible to avoid costly emergent maintenance activities and enhance both the reliability and availability of the railway system. Squats on the switchblade could even potentially cause the blade to break and cause a derailment. This study presented a method to collect and process vibration data at the point machine with accelerometers on three axes to extract useful features. The two most important features, the number of peaks and the total power, were found. Three different unsupervised machine learning algorithms were applied to cluster the data. The results showed that the presented method could provide promising features. The k-means and the agglomerative hierarchical clustering methods are suitable for this data set. The density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN) encounters some challenges.
Multilayer Measurement Methodology with Open-Source Tools for Evaluating IEEE 802.11ad Communication Quality
Authors: Kashihara Shigeru , Tamai Morihiko , Hasegawa Akio , Yokoyama Hiroyuki
Published: April 2023

IEEE 802.11ad is the practical networking technology widely used as a 60 GHz millimeter-wave communication method ahead of Beyond 5G and 6G networks. However, compared with the existing Wi-Fi systems that use 2.4/5 GHz, it is difficult to manage the communication quality due to the high carrier frequency, e.g., the signal strength suddenly and significantly degrades due to various factors such as distance and obstacles. For IEEE 802.11ad to be widely adopted, a simple and inexpensive measurement method is needed for non-specialists, including end users, to build and manage a stable IEEE 802.11ad network. In addition, easy-to-understand performance indicators are required. This paper then proposes a multilayer measurement methodology with open-source tools, i.e., iperf3, ping, and iw, for IEEE 802.11ad communication. Our methodology selects indicators necessary to evaluate IEEE 802.11ad communication performance. The tools iperf3 and ping mainly evaluate the IP layer indicators such as throughput, jitter, packet retries, packet loss, and RTT. On the other hand, the RSSI and Tx bitrates of the iw results are used to investigate the wireless link quality. Through empirical results with our measurement methodology in real environments, we show that in addition to traditional indicators such as through-put, the Tx bitrate output by iw can be a new indicator for understanding the IEEE 802.11ad communication quality.
Multi-Output Based Hybrid Integrated Models for Student Performance Prediction
Authors: Xue Han , Niu Yanmin
Published: April 2023

In higher education, student learning relies increasingly on autonomy. With the rise in blended learning, both online and offline, students need to further improve their online learning effectiveness. Therefore, predicting students’ performance and identifying students who are struggling in real time to intervene is an important way to improve learning outcomes. However, currently, machine learning in grade prediction applications typically only employs a single-output prediction method and has lagging issues. To advance the prediction of time and enhance the predictive attributes, as well as address the aforementioned issues, this study proposes a multi-output hybrid ensemble model that utilizes data from the Superstar Learning Communication Platform (SLCP) to predict grades. Experimental results show that using the first six weeks of SLCP data and the Xgboost model to predict mid-term and final grades meant that accuracy reached 78.37%, which was 3–8% higher than the comparison models. Using the Gdbt model to predict homework and experiment grades, the average mean squared error was 16.76, which is better than the comparison models. This study uses a multi-output hybrid ensemble model to predict how grades can help improve student learning quality and teacher teaching effectiveness.
Application of Response Surface Methodology to Optimize the Extraction Process of Bioactive Compounds Obtained from Coffee Silverskin
Authors: Brzezińska Rita , Wirkowska-Wojdyła Magdalena , Piasecka Iga , Górska Agata
Published: April 2023

The present research focused on the extraction optimization of bioactive compounds from coffee silverskin (CS), a by-product generated in large amounts worldwide during the coffee roasting process. The effect of the different extraction conditions has been investigated by the exploitation of the response surface methodology (RSM). The antioxidant activity assays, such as ABTS and FRAP, total phenolics content (TPC), browning index (BI), and chromatographic analysis of caffeine and chlorogenic acids contents have been performed to evaluate the CS extracts characteristics. The most favorable extraction conditions on the maximum recovery of antioxidant bioactive compounds were found to be as follows: 50% aqueous solution of ethanol (v/v) in solvent solid ratio of 45 mL/g CS, during 30 min at 60 °C. The CS extract prepared in this extraction variant reached the values for ABTS, FRAP, TPC, and BI approximately 101.6 µmol Trolox/g d.m. CS, 132.3 µmol Fe (II)/g d.m. CS, 52.3 µmol GAE (gallic acid equivalent) per g d.m. CS, and 0.3, respectively. Additionally, this extract is rich in caffeine (6 mg/g d.m. CS) and chlorogenic acids (0.22 mg/g d.m. CS). In conclusion, this research demonstrates that CS could be considered as a valuable by-product of bioactive compounds with potential applications in the food industry.
Special Issue on Automatic Speech Recognition
Authors: Chen Lijiang
Published: April 2023

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and deep learning technology, automatic speech recognition technology is experiencing new vitality [...]
Research on an Improved Method for Galloping Stability Analysis Considering Large Angles of Attack
Authors: Ma Zhenxing , Li Jiawu , Liu Shuangrui , Li Han , Wang Feng
Published: April 2023

In view of the deficiency of the quasi-steady galloping critical wind speed calculation method based on the classical Den Hartog criterion, this paper proposes a quasi-steady galloping stability analysis method that considers the wind attack angle criterion (dCV/dα) through theoretical analysis. Firstly, the tri-component force coefficients of a square-section model were measured through wind tunnel tests, and the galloping force coefficients calculated with three different galloping criteria (the dCV/dα criterion, Den Hartog criterion, and Xie criterion) were compared and analyzed. Secondly, to further verify the reliability and applicability of the criteria proposed in this study, wind tunnel tests and numerical simulations were conducted on an H-shaped section. The verification results of the H-shaped section showed that under the action of the incoming flow at a large angle of attack of 70°, the maximum error of the classic Den Hartog criterion could reach about 44%. This study used the dCV/dα criterion while considering the large angle of attack of the incoming flow, and its calculation error could be controlled within 10%. At the same time, the numerical simulation showed that there was serious aerodynamic instability in this section under the critical wind speed. A pair of periodic vortex structures were formed in the wake region of the H-shaped section, resulting in constant generation and separation phenomena, which induced structural instability.
Exploration and Sustainable Management of Groundwater Resources in Geologically Complex Terrain
Authors: Hsu Shih-Meng , Lee Cheng-Haw , Chang Liang-Cheng
Published: April 2023

Groundwater is a precious and limited resource [...]
HCI-Based Wireless System for Measuring the Concentration of Mining Machinery and Equipment Operators
Authors: Jagoda Jerzy , Woszczyński Mariusz , Polnik Bartosz , Falkowski-Gilski Przemysław
Published: April 2023

Maintaining stable and reliable working conditions is a matter of vital importance for various companies, especially those involving heavy machinery. Due to human exhaustion, as well as unpredicted hazards and dangerous situations, the personnel has to take actions and wisely plan each move. This paper presents a human–computer interaction (HCI)-based system that uses a concentration level measurement function to increase the safety of machine and equipment operators. The system has been developed in response to the results of user experience (UX) analyses of the state of occupational safety, which indicate that the most common cause of accidents is the so-called insufficient concentration while performing work. The paper presents the reasons for addressing this issue and a description of the proposed electroencephalography (EEG)-based solution in the form of a concentration measurement system concept. We discuss in-field measurements of such a prototype solution, together with an analysis of obtained results. The method of implementing a wireless communication interface is also provided, along with a visualization application.
Cooperative Guidance Law for the Mother-Cabin of the Anti-UAV Cluster Mother-Son Missile
Authors: Luo Ruining , He Guangjun , Bu Xiangwei , Shi Jianjun
Published: April 2023

This article investigates a novel operational pattern for intercepting UAV clusters over the range of middle and far distances using mother-son missiles. To address the guidance issue of the mother-cabin in the operational pattern, a special cooperative guidance law, which takes into account acceleration constraint and satisfies the constraints of impact time, speed, and zero line of sight angle (LOS), is proposed. Based on consistency theory and sliding mode control theory, the proposed cooperative guidance law is specifically designed for the mother-cabin of the mother-son missile. This approach offers several advantages, including a simple structure and smooth controller output, and smooth flight trajectory. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness and applicability of the cooperative guidance law.
Short-Term Alternate Feeding between Terrestrially Sourced Oil- and Fish Oil-Based Diets Modulates the Intestinal Microecology of Juvenile Turbot
Authors: Ma Xiuhua , Kong Yaoyao , Xu Houguo , Bi Qingzhu , Liang Mengqing , Mai Kangsen , Zhang Yanjiao
Published: April 2023

A nine-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate changes in the intestinal microbiota of turbot in response to alternate feeding between terrestrially sourced oil (TSO)- and fish oil (FO)-based diets. The following three feeding strategies were designed: (1) continuous feeding with the FO-based diet (FO group); (2) weekly alternate feeding between soybean oil (SO)- and FO-based diets (SO/FO group); and (3) weekly alternate feeding between beef tallow (BT)- and FO-based diets (BT/FO group). An intestinal bacterial community analysis showed that alternate feeding reshaped the intestinal microbial composition. Higher species richness and diversity of the intestinal microbiota were observed in the alternate-feeding groups. A PCoA analysis showed that the samples clustered separately according to the feeding strategy, and among the three groups, the SO/FO group clustered relatively closer to the BT/FO group. The alternate feeding significantly decreased the abundance of Mycoplasma and selectively enriched specific microorganisms, including short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria, digestive bacteria (Corynebacterium and Sphingomonas), and several potential pathogens (Desulfovibrio and Mycobacterium). Alternate feeding may maintain the intestinal microbiota balance by improving the connectivity of the ecological network and increasing the competitive interactions within the ecological network. The alternate feeding significantly upregulated the KEGG pathways of fatty acid and lipid metabolism, glycan biosynthesis, and amino acid metabolism in the intestinal microbiota. Meanwhile, the upregulation of the KEGG pathway of lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis indicates a potential risk for intestinal health. In conclusion, short-term alternate feeding between dietary lipid sources reshapes the intestinal microecology of the juvenile turbot, possibly resulting in both positive and negative effects.
Jasmonic and Salicylic Acids Enhance Biomass, Total Phenolic Content, and Antioxidant Activity of Adventitious Roots of Acmella radicans (Jacq.) R.K. Jansen Cultured in Shake Flasks
Authors: Bernabé-Antonio Antonio , Castro-Rubio Clarisa , Rodríguez-Anda Raúl , Silva-Guzmán José Antonio , Manríquez-González Ricardo , Hurtado-Díaz Israel , Sánchez-Ramos Mariana , Hinojosa-Ventura Gabriela , Romero-Estrada Antonio
Published: April 2023

Acmella radicans (Asteraceae) is a plant native to America. Despite it having medicinal attributes, studies on its phytochemical properties are scarce, and biotechnological studies do not exist for this species. In this study, we established an adventitious root culture from A. radicans internodal segments in shake flasks with indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), and then elicited it with jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA). The total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were evaluated, and a comparison was made using in vitro plantlets and wild plants. Internodal segments with 0.1 mg/L IBA showed 100% root induction and exhibited better growth after transfer to shake flasks with MS liquid culture medium. JA had a significant effect on biomass increase compared to unelicited roots, mainly with 50 µM JA (28%), while SA did not show significant results. Root elicited with 100 µM (SA and JA) showed a 0.34- and 3.9-fold increase, respectively, in total phenolic content (TPC) compared to the control. The antioxidant activity was also significant, and a lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was observed as the AJ concentration increased. Roots elicited with AJ (100 µM) exhibited high antioxidant activity with DPPH (IC50 = 9.4 µg/mL) and ABTS (IC50 = 3.3 µg/mL) assays; these values were close to those for vitamin C (IC50 = 2.0 µg/mL). The TPC and antioxidant activity of in vitro plants and root cultured in shake flasks showed the lowest values in most cases; even the root cultures without elicitation were better than those of a wild plant. In this study, we demonstrated that A. radicans root culture is capable of producing secondary metabolites, while its production and antioxidant activity can be enhanced using jasmonic acid.
The Production of High-Added-Value Bioproducts from Non-Conventional Biomasses: An Overview
Authors: Monteiro Alcilene Rodrigues , Battisti Andrei Pavei , Valencia Germán Ayala , de Andrade Cristiano José
Published: April 2023

In recent decades, biomasses from different industrial segments have created new interesting perspectives, including sustainable development. Moreover, reusing waste, such as biomass, also impacts the economy, i.e., the circular economy. The main biomasses and their applications are evident in the energy, food, chemistry, fine chemical, and pharmaceutical sectors. Several questions should be asked regarding the trending topic of the circular economy, including biomass availability and seasonality, energy demand (processes), and the real environmental impact. Thus, this review focuses on biomass collected from non-conventional (unusual technology at the industrial scale) food-processing residues, particularly from 2016 to 2023, to produce biomaterials and/or bioproducts for the food sector.
Effect of Single High Dose Vitamin D Substitution in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients with Vitamin D Deficiency on Length of Hospital Stay
Authors: Jaun Fabienne , Boesing Maria , Luethi-Corridori Giorgia , Abig Kristin , Bloch Nando , Giezendanner Stéphanie , Grillmayr Victoria , Haas Philippe , Leuppi-Taegtmeyer Anne B. , Muser Jürgen , Raess Andrea , Schuetz Philipp , Brändle Michael , Leuppi Jörg D.
Published: April 2023

Vitamin D and its role in the coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19) pandemic has been controversially discussed, with inconclusive evidence about vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplementation in COVID-19 patients. Vitamin D metabolites play an important role in the initiation of the immune response and can be an easily modifiable risk factor in 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3)-deficient patients. This is a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled double-blind trial to compare the effect of a single high dose of vitamin D3 followed by treatment as usual (TAU) of daily vitamin D3 daily until discharge versus placebo plus TAU in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and 25(OH)D3-deficiency on length hospital stay. We included 40 patients per group and did not observe a significant difference in the median length of hospital stay (6 days in both groups, p = 0.920). We adjusted the length of stay for COVID-19 risk factors (β = 0.44; 95% CI: −2.17–2.22), and center (β = 0.74; 95% CI: −1.25–2.73). The subgroup analysis in patients with severe 25(OH)D3-deficiency (<25 nmol/L) showed a non-significant reduction in the median length of hospital stay in the intervention group (5.5 vs. 9 days, p = 0.299). The competing risk model with death did not reveal significant differences between the group in the length of stay (HR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.62–1.48, p = 0.850). Serum 25(OH)D3 level increased significantly in the intervention group (mean change in nmol/L; intervention: +26.35 vs. control: –2.73, p < 0.001). The intervention with 140,000 IU vitamin D3 + TAU did not significantly shorten the length of hospital stay but was effective and safe for the elevation of serum 25(OH)D3 levels.
Layer-by-Layer Combination of MWCNTs and Poly(ferulic acid) as Electrochemical Platform for Hesperidin Quantification
Authors: Yakupova Elvira , Mukharlyamova Aisylu , Fitsev Igor , Ziyatdinova Guzel
Published: April 2023

The electrochemical polymerization of suitable monomers is a powerful way to create voltammetric sensors with improved responses to a target analyte. Nonconductive polymers based on phenolic acids were successfully combined with carbon nanomaterials to obtain sufficient conductivity and high surface area of the electrode. Glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) modified with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and electropolymerized ferulic acid (FA) were developed for the sensitive quantification of hesperidin. The optimized conditions of FA electropolymerization in basic medium (15 cycles from −0.2 to 1.0 V at 100 mV s−1 in 250 µmol L−1 monomer solution in 0.1 mol L−1 NaOH) were found using the voltammetric response of hesperidin. The polymer-modified electrode exhibited a high electroactive surface area (1.14 ± 0.05 cm2 vs. 0.75 ± 0.03 and 0.089 ± 0.003 cm2 for MWCNTs/GCE and bare GCE, respectively) and decreased in the charge transfer resistance (21.4 ± 0.9 kΩ vs. 72 ± 3 kΩ for bare GCE). Under optimized conditions, hesperidin linear dynamic ranges of 0.025–1.0 and 1.0–10 µmol L−1 with a detection limit of 7.0 nmol L−1 were achieved, which were the best ones among those reported to date. The developed electrode was tested on orange juice and compared with chromatography.
Study on the Mechanism for SIRT1 during the Process of Exercise Improving Depression
Authors: Qiu Xiao , Lu Pengcheng , Zeng Xinyu , Jin Shengjie , Chen Xianghe
Published: April 2023

The mechanism behind the onset of depression has been the focus of current research in the neuroscience field. Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) is a key player in regulating energy metabolism, and it can regulate depression by mediating the inflammatory response (e.g., nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β)), gene expression in the nucleus accumben (NAc) and CA1 region of the hippocampus (e.g., nescient helix-loop-helix2 (NHLH2), monoamine oxidase (MAO-A), and 5-Hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (5-HIAA)), and neuronal regeneration in the CA3 region of the hippocampus. Exercise is an important means to improve energy metabolism and depression, but it remains to be established how SIRT1 acts during exercise and improves depression. By induction and analysis, SIRT1 can be activated by exercise and then improve the function of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis by upregulating brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF), inhibit the inflammatory response (suppression of the NF-κB and TNF-α/indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO)/5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) pathways), and promote neurogenesis (activation of the insulin-like growth factor1 (IGF-1) and growth-associated protein-43 (GAP-43) pathways, etc.), thereby improving depression. The present review gives a summary and an outlook based on this finding and makes an analysis, which will provide a new rationale and insight for the mechanism by which exercise improves depression.
Influence of Masonry Infill Walls on the Seismic Assessment of Non-Seismically Designed RC Framed Structures
Authors: Falcão Moreira Rodrigo , Varum Humberto , Castro José Miguel
Published: April 2023

This paper examines how the decision to include (or exclude) masonry infill walls in the modelling of non-seismically designed RC framed structures can affect the results of the EC8-3 seismic assessment process. A frequently used macro-modelling technique for the simulation of infill panels within bounding RC members is first reviewed. A case-study application follows in which the seismic assessment of a sample structure is carried out, with and without considering the effect of its infill walls, using nonlinear static and dynamic analysis models. The obtained results are then discussed according to the applicable limit states’ performance requirements, and conclusions are drawn regarding the overall outcome. The study indicates that, when low and medium seismic input motions constitute the base demand for the assessment of older-type RC framed buildings, the protection provided to the RC members by the confined masonry infill panels should not be neglected. Moreover, it shows that the identification of the most likely collapse mechanism might also be significantly influenced by the modelling decision in question. As such, the default recommendation is to include masonry infill walls in the modelling of such structures.