bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Optimal Dietary Vitamin D3 on Growth and Carcass Performance, Tibia Traits, Meat Quality, and Intestinal Morphology of Chinese Yellow-Feathered Broiler Chickens
Authors: Wei Junjie , Li Ling , Peng Yunzhi , Luo Junyi , Chen Ting , Xi Qianyun , Zhang Yongliang , Sun Jiajie
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to assess the effects of different dietary vitamin D3 (VD3) levels on growth and carcass performance, tibia traits, meat quality, and intestinal morphology of yellow-feathered broilers. One-day-old broilers (n = 1440) were assigned into four treatment groups with six replicates per group, and each replicate contained 60 chicks. Dietary VD3 significantly improved the growth performance and carcass traits of broilers, and only low-dose VD3 supplementation decreased the abdominal fat percentage. High-dose VD3 supplementation improved intestinal morphology in the finisher stage, while the b* value of breast muscle meat color decreased markedly under VD3 supplementation (p < 0.05). Serum Ca and P levels and the tibia composition correlated positively with dietary VD3 supplementation at the early growth stage. The weight, length, and ash contents of the tibia increased linearly with increasing dietary VD3, with maximum values achieved in the high-dose group at all three stages. Intestinal 16S rRNA sequencing and liver transcriptome analysis showed that dietary VD3 might represent an effective treatment in poultry production by regulating lipid and immune-related metabolism in the gut–liver axis, which promotes the metabolism through the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the intestine and improves their protective humoral immunity and reduces infection mortality. Dietary VD3 positively affected the growth—immunity and bone development of broilers during the early stage, suggesting strategies to optimize poultry feeding.
Zoo Visitors’ Most-Liked Aspects of Elephant Encounters and Related Perceptions of Animals’ Emotions and Welfare States: A Pragmatic Approach
Authors: Lacinak Angela M.
Published: March 2024

Zoos strive to provide excellent welfare for resident animals, including those belonging to endangered species involved in captive breeding programs while addressing visitors’ concerns regarding the ethics of captivity. Zoos also rely on income and support from visitors to provide exceptional care for their animal residents. It is essential, therefore, that zoos consider how visitors perceive their animals’ well-being, including physical and psychological welfare. This pragmatic, qualitative research explores the aspects of training-focused enrichment activities provided for a resident herd of African elephants (Loxodonta africana) that visitors liked/disliked, and it assesses perceptions of the animals’ emotions and welfare. Data were collected via surveys following live encounters at Zoo Tampa, Florida (USA). Reflexive Thematic Analysis generated key themes related to visitors’ most/least-liked aspects of the encounters, including proximity, elephant–caregiver relationships (ECRs), educational content, and teaching/learning opportunities for the elephants themselves. Participants in the research perceived the elephants as happy, content, calm, comfortable, engaged, excited, good, playful, and safe (among other emotional descriptors) and as having excellent welfare. Expressions of dislike referred to visitors’ inability to have contact with the elephants, such as via touching or feeding. While focused on one case-study zoo and a charismatic species, this study nonetheless provides zoos with insight into the impact that animal–caregiver interactions can have on visitors’ perceptions, and it offers a model that could be applied to other species and at other zoological institutions. These visitor experiences and visitor perceptions of animal welfare drive future visitor actions, including support for zoos.
Tramadol and M1 Bioavailability Induced by Metamizole Co-Administration in Donkeys (Equus asinus)
Authors: Araújo-Silva Gabriel , de Macêdo Luã B. , Mouta Andressa N. , de Oliveira Maria Gláucia C. , Arcoverde Kathryn N. , Solon Lilian G. S. , Perez-Urizar José T. , de Paula Valéria V.
Published: March 2024

Our objective was to assess the pharmacokinetic characteristics of metamizole when administered together with tramadol in a single intravenous dose to donkeys. Ten male animals received 10 mg∙kg−1 of dipyrone associated with 2 mg∙kg−1 of tramadol (T2M10) and 25 mg∙kg−1 of dipyrone with 2 mg∙kg−1 of tramadol (T2M25). Venous blood samples were taken from groups to determine the pharmacokinetics after drug administration, using initial brief intervals that were followed by extended periods until 48 h. Restlessness and ataxia were observed in two animals in the T2M25 group. Analysis revealed prolonged detectability of tramadol, 4-methylamine antipyrine, 4-aminoantipyrine (up to 24 h), and O-desmethyltramadol (up to 12 h) after administration. Although metamizole and its metabolites showed no significant pharmacokinetic changes, tramadol and O-desmethyltramadol exhibited altered profiles, likely because of competition for the active sites of CYP450 enzymes. Importantly, the co-administration of metamizole increased the bioavailability of tramadol and O-desmethyltramadol in a dose-dependent manner, highlighting their potential interactions and emphasizing the need for further dose optimization in donkey analgesic therapies. In conclusion, metamizole co-administered with tramadol interferes with metabolism and this interference can change the frequency of drug administration and its analgesic efficacy.
Efficacy and Safety of Lidocam Topical Gel (4% Lidocaine—0.3% Meloxicam) for Pain and Inflammation Management during Castration and Tail Docking in Piglets
Authors: Nagel Denis , Ralston Brenda , Hanson Andrea , Burwash Les , Matheson-Bird Heather , Olson Barbara , Schatz Crystal , Olson Merle
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: It has been well established that castration and tail docking are both painful during and following the procedure, yet there are limited convenient and effective products to address both short-term and long-term pain. Lidocam Topical Gel (LTG) (4% lidocaine and 0.3% meloxicam) was developed to address industry needs for an effective and safe product to address animal welfare concerns regarding castration and tail docking in piglets. (2) Methods: Study 1: Male piglets aged 4–8 days of age were treated with LTG (n = 30) or a control gel (n = 30). Approximately 30 min after application of the gel, the piglets were surgically castrated and tail docked. The efficacy of pain control during the surgical procedures and post-procedure (24 h) pain and inflammation control were evaluated using both behavioral and physiological measurements. Study 2: Meloxicam residue depletion following LTG treatment was followed for 28 days. Study 3: Clinical and pathological safety were evaluated in five groups of eight piglets receiving LTG with: (1) no treatment, (2) nominal topical dose, (3) two times the nominal topical dose, (4) three times the nominal topical dose, and 5) one times the nominal topical dose and 2 mL of LTG by oral gavage daily for 3 days. (3) Results: LTG-treated piglets had a significant reduction in electrocutaneous stimulation response before the procedures and 4 and 24 h post-procedures. Stress vocalization intensity and duration were less in piglets receiving LTG during the surgical procedures. Plasma cortisol and substance P were significantly lower in LTG-treated piglets 3 h after castration and tail docking. The weight and average daily gain were significantly increased in piglets receiving LTG. LTG did not interfere with wound healing or cause irritation at the application sites. There were no abnormal clinical or pathological findings associated with the use of LTG at three times the nominal dose given daily for three days. As meloxicam persisted in the application site tissue, a slaughter withdrawal time of 24 days was determined. (4) Conclusions: When applied to the skin 30 min before castration and tail docking, LTG is effective in surgical pain control and provides post-surgical pain control for up to 24 h. LTG is safe for use in piglets and provides an acceptable withdrawal time for commercial use. LTG is a potentially effective product for commercial use for piglet castration and tail docking.
Biofilm Development by Mycobacterium avium Complex Clinical Isolates: Effect of Clarithromycin in Ultrastructure
Authors: Akir Arij , Senhaji-Kacha Abrar , Muñoz-Egea Maria Carmen , Esteban Jaime , Aguilera-Correa John Jairo
Published: March 2024

Background: The Mycobacterium avium complex includes the commonest non-tuberculous mycobacteria associated with human infections. These infections have been associated with the production of biofilms in many cases, but there are only a few studies about biofilms produced by the species included in this group. Methods: Three collection strains (M. avium ATCC25291, M. intracellulare ATCC13950, and M. chimaera DSM756), three clinically significant strains (647, 657, and 655), and three clinically non-significant ones (717, 505, and 575) of each species were included. The clinical significance of the clinical isolates was established according to the internationally accepted criteria. The biofilm ultrastructure was studied by Confocal-Laser Scanning Microscopy by using BacLight Live–Dead and Nile Red stains. The viability, covered surface, height, and relative autofluorescence were measured in several images/strain. The effect of clarithromycin was studied by using the technique described by Muñoz-Egea et al. with modifications regarding incubation time. The study included clarithromycin in the culture medium at a concentration achievable in the lungs (11.3 mg/L), using one row of wells as the control without antibiotics. The bacterial viability inside the biofilm is expressed as a percentage of viable cells. The differences between the different parameters of the biofilm ultrastructure were analyzed by using the Kruskal–Wallis test. The correlation between bacterial viability in the biofilm and treatment time was evaluated by using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (ρ). Results: The strains showed differences between them with all the studied parameters, but neither a species-specific pattern nor a clinical-significance-specific pattern were detected. For the effect of clarithromycin, the viability of the bacteria contained in the biofilm was inversely proportional to the exposure time of the biofilm (ρ > −0.3; p-value < 0.05), excluding two M. chimaera strains (M. chimaera DSM756 and 575), which showed a weak positive correlation with treatment time (0.2 < ρ < 0.39; p-value < 0.05). Curiously, despite a clarithromycin treatment of 216 h, the percentage of the biofilm viability of the strains evaluated here was not less than 40% at best (M. avium 717). Conclusions: All the M. avium complex strains studied can form biofilm in vitro, but the ultrastructural characteristics between them suggest that these are strain-specific characteristics unrelated to the species or the clinical significance. The clarithromycin effect on MAC species is biofilm-age/time-of-treatment-dependent and appears to be strain-specific while being independent of the clinical significance of the strain.
Rethinking Hidradenitis Suppurativa Management: Insights into Bacterial Interactions and Treatment Evolution
Authors: Huynh Faith D. , Damiani Giovanni , Bunick Christopher G.
Published: March 2024

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), or acne inversa, is a chronic inflammatory dermatological condition characterized by painful and recurrent nodules and purulent abscesses. HS can have a devastating impact on the quality of life of patients. This condition is commonly localized to the axilla, groin, perineal, and inframammary regions, and can develop fistulas and sinus tracts over time. Its pathogenesis remains elusive and is best characterized at the moment as multi-factorial. Additionally, questions remain about the role of cutaneous dysbiosis as a primary HS trigger or as a secondary perturbation due to HS inflammation. This article features works in relation to HS and its interplay with bacterial microflora. We address current treatment approaches and their impact on HS-related bacteria, as well as areas of therapeutic innovation. In the future, disease-modifying or remittive therapy will likely combine an advanced/targeted anti-inflammatory approach with one that effectively modulates cutaneous and deep tissue dysbiosis.
Pharmacologic Ascorbate Radiosensitizes Pancreatic Cancer but Radioprotects Normal Tissue: The Role of Oxidative Stress-Induced Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Chen Gloria Y. , O’Leary Brianne R. , Du Juan , Carroll Rory S. , Steers Garett J. , Buettner Garry R. , Cullen Joseph J.
Published: March 2024

The toxicity of ionizing radiation limits its effectiveness in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Pharmacologic ascorbate (P-AscH−) has been shown to radiosensitize pancreatic cancer cells while simultaneously radioprotecting normal cells. We hypothesize that P-AscH− protects the small intestine while radiosensitizing pancreatic cancer cells partially through an oxidative stress mechanism. Duodenal samples from pancreaticoduodenectomy specimens of patients who underwent radio-chemotherapy ± P-AscH− and mouse tumor and jejunal samples treated with radiation ± P-AscH− were evaluated. Pancreatic cancer and non-tumorigenic cells were treated with radiation ± P-AscH− to assess lipid peroxidation. To determine the mechanism, pancreatic cancer cells were treated with selenomethionine or RSL3, an inhibitor of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4). Radiation-induced decreases in villi length and increases in 4-HNE immunofluorescence were reversed with P-AscH− in human duodenum. In vivo, radiation-induced decreases in villi length and increased collagen deposition were reversed in P-AscH−-treated jejunal samples. P-AscH− and radiation increased BODIPY oxidation in pancreatic cancer cells but not in non-tumorigenic cells. Selenomethionine increased GPx4 protein and activity in pancreatic cancer and reversed P-AscH−-induced toxicity and lipid peroxidation. RSL3 treatment inhibited GPx4 activity and increased lipid peroxidation. Differences in oxidative stress may play a role in radioprotecting normal cells while radiosensitizing pancreatic cancer cells when treated with P-AscH−.
Impact of In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion on the Phenolic Bioaccessibility and Bioactive Properties of Insect-Containing Beef Burgers
Authors: Rocchetti Gabriele , Zengin Gokhan , Giuberti Gianluca , Cervini Mariasole , Lucini Luigi
Published: March 2024

Mealworm, migratory locust, and house cricket have recently been recognized by the European Commission as novel foods, thus being suitable in different food applications. In this work, we tested their powders as meat extenders at 5% (w/w) inclusion in beef burgers, considering their ability to vehicle phenolic compounds during simulated in vitro static gastrointestinal digestion (INFOGEST). Insect powders were abundant in different phenolic classes, recording the highest values in locust (LP; 314.69 mg/kg), followed by cricket (CP; 113.3 mg/kg) and mealworm (MWP; 51.9 mg/kg). Following a pan-cooking process, LP burgers were confirmed as the best source of phenolics, with a marked abundance of flavonoids and phenolic acids. Interestingly, the insect powders were found to affect the in vitro gastrointestinal bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds when compared with the CTR burger, likely promoted by the interactions between the phenolic compounds and proteins characterizing the tested insect powders. Among the most discriminant phenolic metabolites at the gastrointestinal level, we found several phenolic acids (mainly hydroxycinnamics), recording the highest content for the digested CP-containing burgers. Finally, stilbenes showed significant correlation values at the intestinal level with both antioxidant and enzymatic activities, while total flavonoids were the most correlated with the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase. Taken together, our preliminary findings demonstrated that insect powders added to beef burgers can promote the bioaccessibility and potential bioavailability of phenolics in the distal tracts of the intestine.
Optimization of Hydrolysis Conditions, Isolation, and Identification of Biologically Active Peptides Derived from Acheta domesticus for Antioxidant and Collagenase Inhibition
Authors: Yeerong Kankanit , Chantawannakul Panuwan , Anuchapreeda Songyot , Wangtueai Sutee , Chaiyana Wantida
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to optimize hydrolysis conditions and isolate and identify bioactive peptides with anti-skin aging effects from Acheta domesticus (house cricket). A. domesticus proteins underwent hydrolysis using Alcalase® and optimized conditions using response surface methodology through a face-centered central composite design. Variable controls (enzyme–substrate concentration (E/S), time, and temperature) were assessed for their impact on activities against collagenase, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH●), and degree of hydrolysis of protein hydrolysate (PH). PH was also investigated for composition, anti-skin aging, and anti-inflammatory effects. Amino acid sequences with potent anti-skin aging activity were isolated and identified using ultrafiltration, gel filtration chromatography, and liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, employing de novo sequencing. Optimal conditions for producing PH with maximum anti-skin aging activity were an E/S concentration of 2.1% (w/w), 227 min, and 61.5 °C. Glutamic acid was a predominant amino acid and PH exhibited a molecular weight below 15 kDa. Additionally, PH displayed significant activities against collagenase, hyaluronidase, DPPH●, lipid peroxidation, and NF-κB-mediated inflammation (p < 0.05). Three novel anti-skin aging peptides were identified—Ala-Val-Thr-Lys-Ala-Asp-Pro-Tyr-Thr-Asp-Gln, Thr-Val-Met-Glu-Leu-Asn-Asp-Leu-Val-Lys-Ala-Phe, and Val-Pro-Leu-Leu-Glu-Pro-Trp—exhibiting the most potent collagenase and DPPH● inhibition. Therefore, this study proposed that PH, produced with Alcalase® under optimal conditions, emerges as a promising substance with potent anti-skin aging activity for the cosmeceutical industry.
TNFRSF1B Signaling Blockade Protects Airway Epithelial Cells from Oxidative Stress
Authors: Checa Javier , Fiol Pau , Guevara Marta , Aran Josep M.
Published: March 2024

Progressive respiratory airway destruction due to unresolved inflammation induced by periodic infectious exacerbation episodes is a hallmark of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung pathology. To clear bacteria, neutrophils release high amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which inflict collateral damage to the neighboring epithelial cells causing oxidative stress. A former genome-wide small interfering RNA (siRNA) screening in CF submucosal gland cells, instrumental for mucociliary clearance, proposed tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 1B (TNFRSF1B; TNFR2) as a potential hit involved in oxidative stress susceptibility. Here, we demonstrate the relevance of TNFRSF1B transcript knock-down for epithelial cell protection under strong oxidative stress conditions. Moreover, a blockade of TNFR signaling through its ligand lymphotoxin-α (LTA), overexpressed in airway epithelial cells under oxidative stress conditions, using the anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) biologic etanercept significantly increased the viability of these cells from a toxic oxidizing agent. Furthermore, bioinformatic analyses considering our previous RNA interference (RNAi) screening output highlight the relevance of TNFRSF1B and of other genes within the TNF pathway leading to epithelial cell death. Thus, the inhibition of the LTα3-TNFR2 axis could represent a useful therapeutic strategy to protect the respiratory airway epithelial lining from the oxidative stress challenge because of recurrent infection/inflammation cycles faced by CF patients.
Trajectory Tracking Control of an Aerial Manipulator in the Presence of Disturbances and Model Uncertainties
Authors: Pedrocco Mattia , Pasetto Alberto , Fanti Giulio , Benato Alberto , Cocuzza Silvio
Published: March 2024

The precise control of an aerial manipulator presents a formidable challenge due to the inherent mobility of its base, which is subject to both external disturbances and dynamic disturbances due to manipulator motions. In this paper, we introduce two Closed-Loop Inverse Kinematics (CLIK) control algorithms tailored to aerial manipulators. The first algorithm operates at the velocity level and uses the Generalized Jacobian for inverse kinematics, while the second one operates at the acceleration level. We evaluate their performance in a simulated environment, replicating real-world challenges such as the wind effect, sensors noise, uncertainty of the system inertial parameters, and impulsive forces at the end-effector. Trajectory tracking simulated experiments are carried out for a two- and three-degree-of-freedom (DOF) aerial manipulator tracking a circular trajectory with its end-effector. Both algorithms demonstrate promising results in coping with external disturbances and variations in the inertial parameters, enhancing the precision of the trajectory tracking control. The acceleration-level algorithm shows overall better performance compared to the velocity-level one in the face of greater implementation complexity and computational burden.
Perceived Air Quality, Thermal Comfort and Health: A Survey of Social Housing Residents in Kazakhstan
Authors: Kurmanbekova Mainur , Du Jiangtao , Sharples Stephen
Published: March 2024

Kazakhstan is in Central Asia and is the ninth-largest country in the world. Some socially vulnerable segments of the Kazakh population residing in subsidised social housing have experienced a range of problems due to the low quality of housing construction and its planning. Poor indoor environmental conditions in social housing contribute to occupants’ comfort, health, and general well-being. This study assessed social housing residents’ health and quality of life, focusing on their perceived indoor air quality and thermal comfort satisfaction. A cross-sectional survey in Kazakhstan was conducted to test the effects of environmental factors on social housing residents’ health and satisfaction. Four hundred thirty-one responses were analysed, and the SF12v2 questionnaire was used to measure the health-related quality of life. Multiple regression analysis showed that air quality negatively predicted the respondents’ physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) health. In addition, age, smoking, and employment status had a significantly negative effect on PCS, while education level had a predictive positive effect. Thermal conditions negatively predicted only MCS, as well as alcohol consumption. Next, the air-conditioning control factor had a negative effect. In contrast, low air circulation, low humidity, high solar gain, temperature imbalance, duration of the residence and alcohol consumption had a significantly positive effect on overall satisfaction with the temperature. The odour sources from tobacco, furniture and external sources were predictors of respondents’ overall air quality satisfaction, along with the duration of the residence, alcohol consumption and smoking status.
The Sequence Stratigraphy and Sedimentary Evolution of the Guantao Formation in the Binxian Uplift Area, Bohai Bay Basin, China
Authors: Li Qing , You Xuelian , He Yu , Zhou Yuan , Tang Renzhi , Li Jiangshan
Published: March 2024

Due to the influence of multiple tectonic movements in rift basins, the sequence and sedimentary filling modes of continental petroleum reservoirs are complex, which makes it difficult to establish isochronous stratigraphic frameworks and thus affects the accuracy of subsequent predictions of effective sand bodies. Taking the Guantao Formation of the Binxian uplift and the surrounding areas as an example, this study established the sequence stratigraphic framework of the Guantao Formation and discussed the controlling effect of sequence stratigraphy on sedimentary filling. According to a combination method of seismic data, well log data, the wavelet transform technique (WTT), and Integrated Prediction Error Filter Analysis (INPEFA) methods, the Guantao Formation in the study area can be divided into 1 long-term cycle (LNG), 4 mid-term cycles (MNG1–MNG4, from bottom to top), and 11 short-term cycles (SNG1–SNG11, from bottom to top). Based on comprehensive analysis of geological and seismic data, three sedimentary facies can be classified: alluvial fan facies, braided fluvial facies, and meandering fluvial facies. The sequence stratigraphic style of the study area has a significant controlling effect on sedimentation and sand body distribution. Different levels of cycles have different impacts on sedimentary facies/microfacies types, the development degree of each sedimentary microfacies, and sand body distribution. The long-term cycle controls the distribution of sedimentary facies, while the mid-term and short-term cycles control the distribution of sedimentary microfacies. The bottom interface of the Guantao Formation (T1) served as the dominant migration channel in the study area, connecting the reservoir and source rocks. When the base-level was in the low stage (MNG1), a large amount of sand bodies developed, forming favorable reservoirs for petroleum. The interlayers at the top of the long- and mid-term cycles served as seal layers to prevent oil and gas from escaping. The MNG1 cycle has a good combination of reservoir and seal, resulting in the accumulation of oil and gas in the MNG1 strata, which became the main oil- and gas-producing layer in the area. These study results can provide effective guidance for future prediction of the distribution of sand bodies and high-quality reservoirs.
Multiple DC Modulation Coordination Strategies Based on Transient Energy Function and Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient Algorithm
Authors: Xing Chao , Liu Mingqun , Peng Junzhen , Wang Xueke , Wang Yuhong , Zheng Zongsheng , Gao Shilin , Liao Jianquan
Published: March 2024

Ultra-low-frequency oscillation (ULFO) is a new problem of frequency stability in asynchronous network back-end power networks. The negative damping provided by hydropower units is the direct cause of ultra-low-frequency oscillation, and DC modulation is an effective means of suppressing system frequency oscillation. Based on the transient energy function and the limitation of DC modulation, this paper analyzes the conditions of suppressing system oscillation by DC modulation from the perspective of energy. The weight of unit energy participation is defined, and the calculation formula of transient oscillation energy in a certain oscillation mode is derived. DC modulation sensitivity is then used to create a DC modulation sequence table based on the Prony identification approach. Ultimately, the DC involved in the modulation is identified using the DC modulation sequence table and the transient oscillation energy, and the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm is used to optimize the chosen DC modulation parameters.
On Green Hydrogen Generation Technologies: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Fernández-Arias Pablo , Antón-Sancho Álvaro , Lampropoulos Georgios , Vergara Diego
Published: March 2024

Green hydrogen, produced by water electrolysis with renewable energy, plays a crucial role in the revolution towards energy sustainability, and it is considered a key source of clean energy and efficient storage. Its ability to address the intermittency of renewable sources and its potential to decarbonize sectors that are difficult to electrify make it a strategic component in climate change mitigation. By using a method based on a bibliometric review of scientific publications, this paper represents a significant contribution to the emerging field of research on green hydrogen and provides a detailed review of electrolyzer technologies, identifying key areas for future research and technology development. The results reflect the immaturity of a technology which advances with different technical advancements, waiting to find the optimal technical solution that allows for its massive implementation as a source of green hydrogen generation. According to the results found in this article, alkaline (ALK) and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers seem to be the ones that interest the scientific community the most. Similarly, in terms of regional analysis, Europe is clearly committed to green hydrogen, in view of the analysis of its scientific results on materials and electrolyzer capacity forecasts for 2030.
Potential Applications of Yeast Biomass Derived from Small-Scale Breweries
Authors: Łukaszewicz Marcin , Leszczyński Przemysław , Jabłoński Sławomir Jan , Kawa-Rygielska Joanna
Published: March 2024

Yeast biomass, a brewery by-product of the world’s substantial alcohol beverage industry, finds successful applications in the fodder industry and food additive production. This is attributed to its rich nutritional profile that comprises high protein and vitamin content. Nonetheless, in small-scale breweries, yeast slurries present a significant challenge, as the quantities obtained are insufficient to attract the attention of the food industry. The disposal of yeast contributes substantially to the organic load of wastewater (approximately 40%) and elevates water consumption (3–6 hL/hL of beer), consequently escalating production costs and environmental impact. In recent years, diverse potential applications of products derived from yeast biomass have emerged, encompassing the substitution of sera in cell culture media, the fortification of animal feed with vitamins and selenium, the utilization of beta-glucan in low-fat food products, and the development of functional foods incorporating yeast-derived peptides. These peptides exhibit the potential to safeguard the gastric mucosa, prevent hypertension, and address neurodegenerative disorders. The rising demand for value-added products derived from yeast underscores the potential profitability of processing yeast from small breweries. Due to the high equipment costs associated with yeast biomass fractionation, the establishment of specialized facilities in collaboration with multiple small breweries appears to be the most optimal solution.
Virtual Production: Real-Time Rendering Pipelines for Indie Studios and the Potential in Different Scenarios
Authors: Silva Jasaui Daniel , Martí-Testón Ana , Muñoz Adolfo , Moriniello Flavio , Solanes J. Ernesto , Gracia Luis
Published: March 2024

This work aims to identify and propose a functional pipeline for indie live-action films using Virtual Production with photorealistic real-time rendering game engines. The new production landscape is radically changing how movies and shows are made. Those were made in a linear pipeline, and now filmmakers can execute multiple tasks in a parallel mode using real-time renderers with high potential for different types of productions. Four interviews of professionals in the Spanish film and television market were conducted to obtain the whole perspective of the new paradigm. Following those examples, a virtual production set was implemented with an Antilatency tracking system, Unreal Engine (version 5.3), and Aximmetry (version 2023.3.2) as the leading software applications. Results are commented on, presenting how all the work is currently closely connected between pre-production, shooting, and post-production and analyzing its potential in different fields.
Optimal Opacity-Enforcing Supervisory Control of Discrete Event Systems on Choosing Cost
Authors: Dai Yinyin , Wang Fei , Luo Jiliang
Published: March 2024

To ensure opacity, it is optimal to retain as many as possible occurring event sequences. Contrary to this problem, the other optimal goal is to preserve the minimal occurring event sequences. Based on the choosing cost, an optimal opacity-enforcing problem with minimal discount choosing cost is presented under two constraints in this paper. The first constraint is the opacity of the controlled system. The second is the retention of the secret to the maximum. To solve the model, two scenarios on opacity are considered. For the two scenarios, some algorithms are presented to achieve the optimal solution for the model by using the method of dynamic programming. Then, the solutions produced by the algorithms are proved to be correct by theoretical proof. Finally, some illustrations and an application example on location privacy protection for the algorithms are given.
A State-of-the-Art Review on the Study of the Diffusion Mechanism of Fissure Grouting
Authors: Du Xueming , Li Zhihui , Fang Hongyuan , Li Bin , Zhao Xiaohua , Zhai Kejie , Xue Binghan , Wang Shanyong
Published: March 2024

China is renowned for its extensive underground engineering projects and the complex geological and hydrological conditions it faces. Grouting treatment technology is widely employed in deep-buried mines and tunnels, where grouting parameters such as materials, pressure, volume, and hole arrangement significantly impact the effectiveness of grouting. This review paper comprehensively examines current research on grouting materials, theories, experiments, and numerical simulations. It summarizes the various factors that must be considered during the grouting process of fissures and explores the diffusion mechanisms of grout under their influence. Furthermore, further research is needed on the mechanisms and treatment methods for poor grouting in rock masses, the distribution patterns of fissures, optimization methods for grouting parameters, and grout quality assessment techniques. Future research should focus on developing more efficient experimental methods with higher accuracy levels while advancing grouting technologies. Establishing comprehensive and accurate rock mass models along with improving monitoring capabilities are also crucial aspects to consider. Therefore, studying the diffusion mechanisms of grout in fissured rock masses is of significant importance for the practical operation of underground engineering projects.
MLSL-Spell: Chinese Spelling Check Based on Multi-Label Annotation
Authors: Jiang Liming , Shen Xingfa , Zhao Qingbiao , Yao Jian
Published: March 2024

Chinese spelling errors are commonplace in our daily lives, which might be caused by input methods, optical character recognition, or speech recognition. Due to Chinese characters’ phonetic and visual similarities, the Chinese spelling check (CSC) is a very challenging task. However, the existing CSC solutions cannot achieve good spelling check performance since they often fail to fully extract the contextual information and Pinyin information. In this paper, we propose a novel CSC framework based on multi-label annotation (MLSL-Spell), consisting of two basic phases: spelling detection and correction. In the spelling detection phase, MLSL-Spell uses the fusion vectors of both character-based pre-trained context vectors and Pinyin vectors and adopts the sequence labeling method to explicitly label the type of misspelled characters. In the spelling correction phase, MLSL-Spell uses Masked Language Mode (MLM) model to generate candidate characters, then performs corresponding screenings according to the error types, and finally screens out the correct characters through the XGBoost classifier. Experiments show that the MLSL-Spell model outperforms the benchmark model. On SIGHAN 2013 dataset, the spelling detection F1 score of MLSL-Spell is 18.3% higher than that of the pointer network (PN) model, and the spelling correction F1 score is 10.9% higher. On SIGHAN 2015 dataset, the spelling detection F1 score of MLSL-Spell is 11% higher than that of Bert and 15.7% higher than that of the PN model. And the spelling correction F1 of MLSL-Spell score is 6.8% higher than that of PN model.
Evolutionary Computation: Theories, Techniques, and Applications
Authors: Cicirello Vincent A.
Published: March 2024

Evolutionary computation is now nearly 50 years old, originating with the seminal work of John Holland at the University of Michigan in 1975 which introduced the genetic algorithm [...]
Unveiling the Hidden Potential of Simple but Promising Blood Cell Parameters on Acute Myocardial Infarction Prognostication
Authors: Jercălău Cosmina Elena , Andrei Cătălina Liliana , Brezeanu Lavinia Nicoleta , Darabont Roxana Oana , Guberna Suzana , Postolea Gabriela , Ceban Octavian , Sinescu Crina Julieta
Published: March 2024

Background: Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), a disease of mounting interest, continues to pose challenges and cast shadows of doubt on determining the optimal timing for revascularization. The current guidelines on NSTEMI recommend coronary angiography based on the GRACE score, emphasizing the critical need for early invasive assessment (within 24 h); very-high-risk patients have to undergo this intervention even sooner, within 2 h. We believe that a reality check of these assumptions is needed and that we should endeavor to update these strategies using new predictive markers. Materials and methods: Our study included patients hospitalized for NSTEMI over the course of 16 months. Simple blood parameters, namely MCV (mean corpuscular volume), MPV (mean platelet volume), RDW (red blood cell distribution width), and PDW (platelet distribution width), were analyzed in correlation with the extent of the myocardial infarction area and with complications during hospitalization and at 30-day follow-up. Results: The parameters mentioned above have been identified as statistically relevant indicators of prognosis in patients with NSTEMI. Conclusions: In the present day, living in the world of the blue sky concept allows us to search for new diagnostic algorithms. Therefore, the combination of these parameters can constitute the DNA strands of a new and up-to-date score stratification.
Application of Random Forest Algorithm in Estimating Dynamic Mechanical Behaviors of Reinforced Concrete Column Members
Authors: Li Rou-Han , Li Mao-Yuan , Zhu Xiang-Yang , Zeng Xiang-Wei
Published: March 2024

In this paper, an innovative method is put forward for estimating the dynamic mechanical behaviors of reinforced concrete (RC) column members by applying the random forest algorithm. Firstly, the development of dynamic modified coefficient (DMC) predictive models and the realization of the proposed method were elaborated. Then, due to the lack of dynamic loading tests on RC column members, a numerical model of RC columns considering the dynamic modification on flexural, shear and bond-slip behaviors was developed on the OpenSees platform, and the model accuracy and the effectiveness were verified with the available test results. Moreover, by comparing the simulated results of the hysteretic curve using numerical models with different complexities, the influences of dynamic modification and the deformation sub-element were investigated. Furthermore, a numerical experiment database was established to obtain the training data for developing the DMC predictive models of critical mechanical behavior parameters, including the yielding bearing capacity, ultimate bearing capacity and displacement ductility. Finally, the results of feature importance for different input parameters were studied, and the model accuracy was evaluated using the test set and available experimental data. It was revealed that the predictive models developed using the random forest algorithm can be employed to reliably estimate the dynamic mechanical behaviors of RC column members.
Effect of Combination of Expansive Agent and Fiber on Freeze-Thaw Resistance of High-Strength Concrete at Dry Environment
Authors: Song Shanshan , Yu Hongfa , Ma Haiyan
Published: March 2024

This study employed a rapid freezing method to investigate the impact of individual additions of expansion agent, steel fibers, and High Elasticity Module Polyethylene Fiber (HEMPF), as well as their combinations, on the freeze-thaw resistance of High-Strength Concrete (HSC). The findings reveal that the non-air-entrained HSC of C80 exhibits excellent freeze-thaw resistance. However, this resistance is sensitive to the curing environment’s humidity. The expansion agent has a negative impact on the freeze-thaw resistance of HSC, while steel fibers and HEMPF fibers have positive effects. Combining HSC with an expansion agent and high elasticity modulus fibers ensures not only high freeze-thaw resistance but also a total alteration of humidity sensitivity, leading to an extended freeze-thaw life of HSC under dry curing conditions.
Automatically Expanding User-Management System for Massive Users in the Cloud Platform
Authors: Li Shengyang , Wang Zhen , Zhang Wanfeng
Published: March 2024

Cloud computing has become one of the key technologies used for big data processing and analytics. User management on cloud platforms is a growing challenge as the number of users and the complexity of systems increase. In light of the user-management system provided by major cloud service providers, which cannot manage multiple types of user systems, this article proposed scale-out automated expansion user management for authorization synchronization to improve the efficiency and scalability of user management on cloud platforms. Three modules for user-automated expansion were designed and implemented to synchronize the authentication information from the cloud platform resource user to the data-processing user. Additionally, an optimized dynamically weighted load-balancing algorithm in Nginx is presented in this article that adjusts the weight according to load information such as CPU and memory usage, and a better load balance can be achieved. The effectiveness of the proposed user-management system is substantiated by comparing it with two existing infrastructures, including multiple data centers and the Huawei cloud platform. The experimental results validate the finding that scale-out automated expansion user management across the Huawei cloud platform can effectively synchronize data accessing authority with cloud resource utilizing authority. Furthermore, the optimized weighted load-balancing algorithm is also valuable for massive concurrent user registration based on limited cloud resources. In the future, this scale-out user-management system could be applied to other cloud platforms and extended by database synchronization to satisfy the needs of data sharing among multiple types of users belonging to different cloud platforms.
Visualizing Changes in Global Glacier Surface Mass Balances before and after 1990
Authors: Braithwaite Roger J. , Hughes Philip D.
Published: March 2024

Recent satellite measurements of glacier mass balances show mountain glaciers all over the world had generally negative mass balances in the first decades of the 21st century. Mean summer temperatures all over the world rose from the 1961–1990 period to the 1991–2020 period, implying increasingly negative mass balances. We studied archived annual balances for 38 northern hemisphere glaciers to assess changes within the 1961–2020 period. We used a modified double-mass curve to visualize mass balance changes occurring around 1990. Mean balances in 1961–1990 were already small negative for many of the studied glaciers and became even more negative in 1991–2020 for glaciers in the Alps, at high latitudes and in western North America. The largest mass balance changes were for some glaciers in the Alps. We are unable to explain the lack of change in mean balance for one glacier in High Mountain Asia. We found complex changes for eight glaciers in Scandinavia, even including one glacier with a positive balance. We explain these changes by visualizing the deviations in winter and summer balances from their respective 1961–1990 mean values. High winter balances in the 1990s for Scandinavia partly obscured the emerging trend of increasingly negative summer balances, which we expect to continue in the future.
Culturable Microorganisms of Aerosols Sampled during Aircraft Sounding of the Atmosphere over the Russian Arctic Seas
Authors: Andreeva Irina S. , Safatov Aleksandr S. , Puchkova Larisa I. , Solovyanova Nadezhda A. , Okhlopkova Olesya V. , Rebus Maksim E. , Buryak Galina A. , Belan Boris D. , Simonenkov Denis V.
Published: March 2024

Atmospheric sounding using the Tu-134 Optik aircraft-laboratory was conducted in September 2020 over the seas of the Russian sector of the Arctic Ocean, namely the Barents, Kara, Laptev, East Siberian, Chukchi and Bering seas. Unique samples of atmospheric aerosols at altitudes from 200 and up to 10,000 m were taken, including samples for the identification of cultivated microorganisms and their genetic analysis. Data on the concentration and diversity of bacteria and fungi isolated from 24 samples of atmospheric aerosols are presented; the main phenotypic and genomic characteristics were obtained for 152 bacterial cultures; and taxonomic belonging was determined. The concentration of cultured microorganisms detected in aerosols of different locations was similar, averaging 5.5 × 103 CFU/m3. No dependence of the number of isolated microorganisms on the height and location of aerosol sampling was observed. The presence of pathogenic and condto shitionally pathogenic bacteria, including those referred to in the genera Staphylococcus, Kocuria, Rothia, Comamonas, Brevundimonas, Acinetobacter, and others, as well as fungi represented by the widely spread genera Aureobasidium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Penicillium, capable of causing infectious and allergic diseases were present in most analyzed samples. Obtained data reveal the necessity of systematic studies of atmospheric microbiota composition to combat emerging population diseases.
Time Series Analysis of the Impact of Meteorological Conditions and Air Quality on the Number of Medical Visits for Hypertension in Haikou City, China
Authors: Zhang Mingjie , Zhang Yajie , Zhang Jinghong , Lin Shaowu
Published: March 2024

Meteorological conditions and air quality are important environmental factors in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as hypertension. The aim of this study was to take Haikou City, located on the tropical edge, as the research area and to analyze the exposure–response relationship and lag effect between its meteorological conditions, air quality, and the number of hypertensive patients. Using the data from the hypertension outpatient department of Hainan Provincial People’s Hospital from 2016 to 2018, together with meteorological data and air quality data, a distributed lag nonlinear model based on the nested generalized addition model of meteorological element base variables was established. The results showed that the impact of temperature on the risk of hypertension was mainly due to the cold effect, which was associated with high risk, with a lag of 1–10 days. When the temperature dropped to 10 °C, the cumulative effect on the risk of hypertension of relative risk (RR) reached its highest value on the day the low temperature occurred (RR was 2.30 and the 95% confidence interval was 1.723~3.061), passing the test with a significance level of 0.05. This result indicated that efforts should be made to strengthen the prevention of hypertension under low-temperature conditions and the prediction and early warning of disease risks. The impact of the air-quality effect (the environmental Air Quality Index was selected as an indicator) on the risk of hypertension was mainly characterized by a low air-quality effect, with a lag effect of 0–8 days. When the risk reached approximately 124, the RR was highest (RR was 1.63 and the 95% confidence interval was 1.104~2.408), passing the test with a significance level of 0.05. The research results can provide technical support for conducting medical meteorological forecasting, early warning, and services for hypertension. A joint work and research mechanism among multiple departments such as meteorology and medical health should be established to improve the level of medical and health care, optimize the allocation of social resources, and develop targeted prevention and control strategies to reduce the health and economic burden of hypertension.