bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Claw Health and Bone Mineral Density on Lameness in Duroc Boars
Authors: Lu Jinxin , Hu Lingling , Guo Liangliang , Peng Jian , Wu Yinghui
Published: April 2023

To investigate the effects of claw lesion types and bone mineral density on lameness in boars, the data of claw lesion score, gait score, and bone mineral density, measured by a Miniomin ultrasound bone densitometer, were collected from a total of 739 Duroc boars. Firstly, we discovered that the prevalence of claw lesions was as high as 95.26% in boars. The percentage of lameness of boars with SWE was higher than those with other claw lesions. Meanwhile, the results showed that the probability of lameness was higher in boars with lower bone mineral density (p < 0.05). Logistic regression models, including variables of boar age, body weight, serum mineral level, and housing type, were used to identify the influencing factors of bone mineral density in this study. The results found that bone mineral density increases with age before reaching a maximum value at 43 months of age, and begins to decrease after 43 months of age. Elevated serum Ca levels were significantly associated with an increase in bone mineral density (p < 0.05). Aside from the above findings, we also made an interesting discovery that boars in the individual pen model significantly increased bone mineral density compared to those in the individual stall model. In conclusion, claw lesions and bone mineral density were significantly associated with lameness. Age, serum Ca, and housing type are the potential influencing factors for bone mineral density in boars.
Economic Considerations on Costs and Pricing of Two Surgical Techniques for Treating Cranial Cruciate Disease in Dogs
Authors: Wemmers Annika Christina , Pawlak Szymon , Medl Nikola , Bokemeyer Jan , Wagels Rolf , Harms Oliver , Volk Holger Andreas
Published: April 2023

In surgical treatment of cranial cruciate ligament disease in dogs, Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy (TPLO) and Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA) are commonly established procedures and have proven effective in restoring limb function. Unlike clinical outcome, economic aspects have not been studied as extensively. However, the surgical intervention poses an enormous financial burden on patients’ owners. In a veterinary practice setting, this study compares prices for TPLO and TTA and examines prices differences as well as potential cost drivers. Charges for veterinary treatments are based on the Gebührenordnung für Tierärztinnen und Tierärzte (GOT), which is mandatory for veterinarians in Germany but allows a certain range in billing. This study found that TPLO is charged at a higher price than TTA; however, this might not cover the additional costs of this procedure. The price is also associated with weight, heavier dogs being more expensive. The underlying strategies for pricing decisions may be based on costs, as efforts for TPLO and heavier dogs are higher in terms of a prolonged surgical time, the number of staff involved and in surgeons’ training. Price setting may also be based on a quality promise, suggesting better clinical outcome in a more expensive procedure. Future investigations should involve economic considerations and consider cost-effectiveness analysis when evaluating surgical treatment options.
Acute Respiratory Infection Hubs: A Service Model with Potential to Optimise Infection Management
Authors: Jawad Sarah , Buckingham Anna , Richardson Charlotte , Molloy Aoife , Owolabi Bola , Inada-Kim Matt
Published: April 2023

Patients with acute respiratory infections (ARI)—including those with upper and lower respiratory infections from both bacterial and viral pathogens—are one of the most common reasons for acute deterioration, with large numbers of potentially avoidable hospital admissions. The acute respiratory infection hubs model was developed to improve healthcare access and quality of care for these patients. This article outlines the implementation of this model and its potential impacts in a number of areas. Firstly, by improving healthcare access for patients with respiratory infections by increasing the capacity for assessment in community and non-emergency department settings and also by providing flexible response to surges in demand and reducing primary and secondary care demand. Secondly, by optimising infection management (including the use of point-of-care diagnostics and standardised best practise guidance to improve appropriate antimicrobial usage) and reducing nosocomial transmission by cohorting those with suspected ARI away from those with non-infective presentations. Thirdly, by addressing healthcare inequalities; in areas of greatest deprivation, acute respiratory infection is strongly linked with increased emergency department attendance. Fourthly, by reducing the National Health Service’s (NHS) carbon footprint. Finally, by providing a wonderful opportunity to gather community infection management data to enable large-scale evaluation and research.
Recent Advances in Pharmaceutical Approaches of Antimicrobial Agents for Selective Delivery in Various Administration Routes
Authors: Marzaman Ardiyah Nurul Fitri , Roska Tri Puspita , Sartini Sartini , Utami Rifka Nurul , Sulistiawati Sulistiawati , Enggi Cindy Kristina , Manggau Marianti A. , Rahman Latifah , Shastri Venkatram Prasad , Permana Andi Dian
Published: April 2023

Globally, the increase of pathogenic bacteria with antibiotic-resistant characteristics has become a critical challenge in medical treatment. The misuse of conventional antibiotics to treat an infectious disease often results in increased resistance and a scarcity of effective antimicrobials to be used in the future against the organisms. Here, we discuss the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the need to combat it through the discovery of new synthetic or naturally occurring antibacterial compounds, as well as insights into the application of various drug delivery approaches delivered via various routes compared to conventional delivery systems. AMR-related infectious diseases are also discussed, as is the efficiency of various delivery systems. Future considerations in developing highly effective antimicrobial delivery devices to address antibiotic resistance are also presented here, especially on the smart delivery system of antibiotics.
Carvacrol—A Natural Phenolic Compound with Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Mączka Wanda , Twardawska Martyna , Grabarczyk Małgorzata , Wińska Katarzyna
Published: April 2023

The main purpose of this article is to present the latest research related to selected biological properties of carvacrol, such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity. As a monoterpenoid phenol, carvacrol is a component of many essential oils and is usually found in plants together with its isomer, thymol. Carvacrol, either alone or in combination with other compounds, has a strong antimicrobial effect on many different strains of bacteria and fungi that are dangerous to humans or can cause significant losses in the economy. Carvacrol also exerts strong anti-inflammatory properties by preventing the peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids by inducing SOD, GPx, GR, and CAT, as well as reducing the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body. It also affects the body’s immune response generated by LPS. Carvacrol is considered a safe compound despite the limited amount of data on its metabolism in humans. This review also discusses the biotransformations of carvacrol, because the knowledge of the possible degradation pathways of this compound may help to minimize the risk of environmental contamination with phenolic compounds.
Co-Existence of Oxazolidinone Resistance Genes cfr(D) and optrA on Two Streptococcus parasuis Isolates from Swine
Authors: Han Ning , Li Jie , Wan Peng , Pan Yu , Xu Tiantian , Xiong Wenguang , Zeng Zhenling
Published: April 2023

This study was performed to investigate the presence and characteristics of the oxazolidinone resistance genes optrA and cfr(D) in Streptococcus parasuis. In total, 36 Streptococcus isolates (30 Streptococcus suis isolates, 6 Streptococcus parasuis isolates) were collected from pig farms in China in 2020–2021, using PCR to determine the presence of optrA and cfr. Then, 2 of the 36 Streptococcus isolates were further processed as follows. Whole-genome sequencing and de novo assembly were employed to analyze the genetic environment of the optrA and cfr(D) genes. Conjugation and inverse PCR were employed to verify the transferability of optrA and cfr(D). The optrA and cfr(D) genes were identified in two S. parasuis strains named SS17 and SS20, respectively. The optrA of the two isolates was located on chromosomes invariably associated with the araC gene and Tn554, which carry the resistance genes erm(A) and ant(9). The two plasmids that carry cfr(D), pSS17 (7550 bp) and pSS20-1 (7550 bp) have 100% nucleotide sequence identity. The cfr(D) was flanked by GMP synthase and IS1202. The findings of this study extend the current knowledge of the genetic background of optrA and cfr(D) and indicate that Tn554 and IS1202 may play an important role in the transmission of optrA and cfr(D), respectively.
Defects in Glutathione System in an Animal Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Wunsch Franziska T. , Metzler-Nolte Nils , Theiss Carsten , Matschke Veronika
Published: April 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progredient neurodegenerative disease characterized by a degeneration of the first and second motor neurons. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased levels of glutathione, which are important defense mechanisms against ROS, have been reported in the central nervous system (CNS) of ALS patients and animal models. The aim of this study was to determine the cause of decreased glutathione levels in the CNS of the ALS model wobbler mouse. We analyzed changes in glutathione metabolism in the spinal cord, hippocampus, cerebellum, liver, and blood samples of the ALS model, wobbler mouse, using qPCR, Western Blot, HPLC, and fluorometric assays. Here, we show for the first time a decreased expression of enzymes involved in glutathione synthesis in the cervical spinal cord of wobbler mice. We provide evidence for a deficient glutathione metabolism, which is not restricted to the nervous system, but can be seen in various tissues of the wobbler mouse. This deficient system is most likely the reason for an inefficient antioxidative system and, thus, for elevated ROS levels.
Sulfated Undaria pinnatifida Polysaccharide Promotes Endocytosis of Nano-Calcium Oxalate Dihydrate by Repairing Subcellular Organelles in HK-2 Cells
Authors: Chen Xue-Wu , Zheng Yu-Yun , Ouyang Jian-Ming
Published: April 2023

The clinical manifestation of primary hyperoxaluria includes hyperoxaluria and recurrent urinary calculi. In this study, an oxidative damage model was constructed based on oxalate damage to the human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2), and a comparative study was carried out on four different sulfated levels of Undaria pinnatifida polysaccharides (UPP0, UPP1, UPP2, and UPP3 with sulfate group [–OSO3−] contents of 1.59%, 6.03%, 20.83%, and 36.39%, respectively) on the repair of oxidatively damaged HK-2 cells. The results showed that after repair by UPPs, cell viability was enhanced, healing ability was improved, the intracellular superoxide dismutase level and mitochondrial membrane potential were increased, malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species, and intracellular Ca2+ levels were reduced, cellular autophagy was reduced; lysosomal integrity was improved, and cytoskeleton and cell morphology were restored. The ability of repaired cells to endocytose nano-calcium oxalate dihydrate crystals (nano−COD) was enhanced. The activity of UPPs was closely related to their –OSO3− content. A too high or too low –OSO3− content was not conducive to polysaccharide activity, and only UPP2 exhibited the best cell repair ability and strongest ability to promote the cell endocytosis of crystals. UPP2 may be used as a potential agent to inhibit CaOx crystal deposition caused by high oxalate concentration.
Distinct Roles of CK2- and AKT-Mediated NF-κB Phosphorylations in Clasmatodendrosis (Autophagic Astroglial Death) within the Hippocampus of Chronic Epilepsy Rats
Authors: Kim Ji-Eun , Lee Duk-Shin , Kim Tae-Hyun , Park Hana , Kang Tae-Cheon
Published: April 2023

The downregulation of glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx1) plays a role in clasmatodendrosis (an autophagic astroglial death) in the hippocampus of chronic epilepsy rats. Furthermore, N-acetylcysteine (NAC, a GSH precursor) restores GPx1 expression in clasmatodendritic astrocytes and alleviates this autophagic astroglial death, independent of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activity. However, the regulatory signal pathways of these phenomena have not been fully explored. In the present study, NAC attenuated clasmatodendrosis by alleviating GPx1 downregulation, casein kinase 2 (CK2)-mediated nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) serine (S) 529 and AKT-mediated NF-κB S536 phosphorylations. 2-[4,5,6,7-Tetrabromo-2-(dimethylamino)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-1-yl]acetic acid (TMCB; a selective CK2 inhibitor) relieved clasmatodendritic degeneration and GPx1 downregulation concomitant with the decreased NF-κB S529 and AKT S473 phosphorylations. In contrast, AKT inhibition by 3-chloroacetyl-indole (3CAI) ameliorated clasmatodendrosis and NF-κB S536 phosphorylation, while it did not affect GPx1 downregulation and CK2 tyrosine (Y) 255 and NF-κB S529 phosphorylations. Therefore, these findings suggest that seizure-induced oxidative stress may diminish GPx1 expression by increasing CK2-mediated NF-κB S529 phosphorylation, which would subsequently enhance AKT-mediated NF-κB S536 phosphorylation leading to autophagic astroglial degeneration.
Addition of Spirulina to Craft Beer: Evaluation of the Effects on Volatile Flavor Profile and Cytoprotective Properties
Authors: Taiti Cosimo , Stefano Giovanni , Percaccio Ester , Di Giacomo Silvia , Iannone Matteo , Marianelli Andrea , Di Sotto Antonella , Garzoli Stefania
Published: April 2023

SPME-GC-MS and PTR-ToF-MS techniques were applied to describe the content of volatile flavor compounds in a craft beer before and after adding spirulina. The obtained results showed that the volatile profile of the two beer samples differed. Furthermore, to chemically characterize biomass spirulina, a derivatization reaction followed by GC-MS analysis was performed, highlighting a high content of molecules belonging to different chemical classes, such as sugars, fatty acids and carboxylic acids. A spectrophotometric analysis of total polyphenols and tannins, investigation into the scavenging activity towards DPPH and ABTS radicals and confocal microscopy of brewer’s yeast cells were carried out. Moreover, the cytoprotective and antioxidant properties towards the oxidative damage induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBOOH) in human H69 cholangiocytes were investigated. Finally, the modulation of Nrf2 signaling under oxidative stress conditions was also evaluated. Both samples of beer were shown to contain similar levels of total polyphenols and tannins, with slightly increased levels in that containing spirulina 0.25% w/v. Moreover, the beers were found to be endowed with radical scavenging properties towards both DPPH and ABTS radicals, albeit with a weak contribution of spirulina; however, a higher riboflavin content was detected in spirulina-treated yeast cells. Conversely, the addition of spirulina (0.25% w/v) appeared to improve the cytoprotective properties of beer towards tBOOH-induced oxidative damage in H69 cells and reduce intracellular oxidative stress. Accordingly, the cytosolic Nrf2 expression was found to be increased.
Novel Antioxidant Insights of Myricetin on the Performance of Broiler Chickens and Alleviating Experimental Infection with Eimeria spp.: Crosstalk between Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: El-Ghareeb Waleed Rizk , Kishawy Asmaa T. Y. , Anter Reham G. A. , Aboelabbas Gouda Asmaa , Abdelaziz Walaa S. , Alhawas Bassam , Meligy Ahmed M. A. , Abdel-Raheem Sherief M. , Ismail Hesham , Ibrahim Doaa
Published: April 2023

In the modern poultry industry, the application of novel phytogenic bioactive compounds with antioxidant potential aims to enhance productivity and quality and to minimize the stress of associated diseases. Herein, myricetin, a natural flavonoid, was evaluated for the first time on broiler chickens’ performance, antioxidants and immune modulating functions, and tackling avian coccidiosis. A total of 500 one-day-old chicks were divided into five groups. The negative (NC) and infected control (IC) groups were fed a control diet without additives, and the latter was infected with Eimeria spp. Groups supplemented with myricetin (Myc) were fed a control diet of Myc (200, 400 and 600 mg/kg diet each). On d 14, all chicks except those in NC were challenged with oocysts of mixed Eimeria spp. Significant improvements in the overall growth rate and feed conversion ratio were detected in the group that was fed 600 mg/kg, unlike the IC group. Notably, groups that were fed 400 and 600 mg/kg showed higher total meat antioxidant capacity with an inverse reduction in oxidative and lipid peroxidation biomarkers (hydrogen peroxide: H2O2; reactive oxygen species: ROS; Malondialdehyde: MDA). Of note, the upregulation of glutathione peroxidase; GSH-Px, catalase; CAT, superoxide dismutase; SOD, heme oxygenase-1; HO-1 and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1 NQO1 genes in jejunum and muscle were prominently observed with increasing levels of supplemental Myc. At 21 dpi, the severity of coccoidal lesions (p < 0.05) induced by mixed Eimeria spp. and oocyst excretion were greatly reduced in the group that was fed 600 mg/kg of Myc. In the IC group, higher serum levels of C-reactive protein; CRP and nitric oxide; and NO and the upregulated expression of inflammatory biomarkers (interleukin-1β; IL-1β, interleukin-6; IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α; TNF-α, chemotactic cytokines; CCL20, stromal cell-derived factor-1; CXCL13, and avian defensins; AvBD612) were subsided in higher levels in the Myc-fed groups. Taken together, these findings indicate the promising antioxidant role of Myc in modulating immune responses and reducing growth depression associated with coccidia challenges.
Bearing Capacities and Failure Behaviors of F-Type Socket Joint in Rectangular Pipe Jacking Tunnel
Authors: Xu Youjun , Huang Zhengdong , Zhang Chao , Pang Yuekui , Liu Tianyu
Published: April 2023

The joint bending test was carried out to study the bending mechanical property and deformation characteristics of the F-type socket joint in rectangular pipe jacking tunnels under the conditions of foundation settlement, construction disturbance and different upper loads. The supporting function of soils under different geological conditions on the rectangular pipe jacking was simulated by arranging different numbers of equivalent foundation springs at the bottom of the pipe. The test results show that the greater the foundation stiffness is, the greater the joint bending moment will be at the same loading displacement, which leads to greater joint opening deformation. When the pipe joint itself produces large deformation, the change rate of joint opening slows down, and the slope of the bending stiffness curve of the joint increases. The bending bearing capacity of the joint is closely related to the foundation stiffness. The greater the foundation stiffness is, the higher the bending bearing capacity.
Colon Delivery of Nutraceutical Ingredients by Food-Grade Polymeric Systems: An Overview of Technological Characterization and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Rizzo Salvatore , Zingale Elide , Romeo Alessia , Lombardo Rosamaria , Pignatello Rosario
Published: April 2023

The development of food-grade carriers based on EFSA and/or FDA-approved polymeric materials is an area of growing interest for the targeted delivery of bioactive compounds to the colon. Many nutraceuticals have shown promise in the local treatment of conditions that threaten quality of life, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, colorectal cancer, dysbiosis and other problems affecting the gut and colon. Nevertheless, their bioavailability is often limited due to poor solubility, rapid metabolism and low permeability, as well as undesirable local side effects. Encapsulation in carriers, which can protect the active ingredient from degradation and improve absorption and targeted administration in the colon, is one way to overcome these limitations. The technological characterization of these systems is important to assess their efficacy, safety and stability. In particular, morphology, size and surface properties influence their actions and interaction with the bio-phase. Meanwhile, encapsulation efficiency, profile and in vitro release kinetics are key parameters to assess the ability to reach the target site. This paper proposes a recent review of food-grade polymer-based systems for colorectal targeting of bioactive substances, focusing on their technological characterization and assessment of stability and biological activity, which are important in determining their full bench-to-bed potential.
Effects of Salt Reduction and the Inclusion of Seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii) on the Physicochemical Properties of Chicken Patties
Authors: Pindi Wolyna , Qin Lim Wei , Sulaiman Nurul Shaeera , Mohd Zaini Hana , Munsu Elisha , Wahab Noorakmar Ab , Mohd Noor Nor Qhairul Izreen
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the effect of salt reduction through the inclusion of seaweed (Kappaphycus alvarezii) on the physicochemical and sensory qualities of chicken patties. A control sample (1.5% salt and without seaweed) and four chicken patty formulations were used with two levels of salt (1% and 1.5%) and two levels of seaweed (2% and 4%). Adding seaweed improves water holding capacity and minimized cooking loss in reduced-salt patties. In addition, adding seaweed decreases the shrinkage of the diameter and thickness of chicken patties (p > 0.05). However, adding seaweed made the patties darker, as shown by lower L* values (p > 0.05). Additionally, the incorporation of seaweed significantly increased (p < 0.05) the hardness, chewiness, cohesiveness, and elasticity of patties. Reduced-salt chicken patties with the addition of 2–4% of seaweed showed lower extracted water than 1.5% salt chicken patties with seaweed (p < 0.05), indicating a higher water holding capacity. The sensory evaluation showed that the chicken patty with 1.5% salt and 4% seaweed had the highest overall acceptability. However, the overall acceptability of the chicken patties with 1% salt and 4% seaweed was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the control. In conclusion, the addition of Kappaphycus alvarezii to reduced salt patties improved textural properties with acceptable taste profiles.
Strategic Approaches for Assessing the Reliability Information during Product Development: Perspective of the Partially Accelerated Degradation Test
Authors: Sung Si-Il
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a strategic approach is provided for simultaneously assessing the verification and validation (V&V) test results and the reliability information during product development based on the perspective of the partially accelerated degradation test (PADT) scheme. This approach addresses the obstacle of obtaining prior information on the model parameters for conducting PADT while minimizing the asymptotic variance of the acceleration model parameters. The strategic advantages and characteristics of the PADT, which do not exist in the classical accelerated test (AT) and partially accelerated test (PAT), are presented. In addition, the advantages and suitability of adopting the PADT instead of the partially accelerated life test (PALT) for effectively assessing the reliability information during product development are investigated through illustrative examples.
Improvement of Auxiliary Diagnosis of Diabetic Cardiovascular Disease Based on Data Oversampling and Deep Learning
Authors: Yang Weiming , Guo Yujia , Liu Yuliang
Published: April 2023

Diabetic cardiovascular disease is a common complication of diabetes, which can lead to high-mortality diseases such as diabetic cardiomyopathy and atherosclerosis in serious cases. Therefore, effective prevention and management of diabetic cardiovascular disease is demanded. Clinical medical data officers are faced with a situation of a small amount of data and uneven data distribution. In this paper, we propose data oversampling synthesis techniques based on weight and extension algorithms. It can combine 1D-convolutional neural networks and long short-term memory neural networks to solve the problem of a lack of original data. First of all, a few samples based on feature weight are synthesized to make the original unbalanced data evenly distributed. Secondly, the original data are extended and corrected to expand the number of samples. Finally, the deep learning algorithm is used to extract features and classify whether the data have diabetic cardiovascular disease. Data synthesis based on weight and extension algorithms was evaluated on the actual medical datasets and obtained an accuracy of 93.53% and specificity of 94.37%, which confirms that it is an improved solution compared to the other algorithms. Hence, this paper contributes not only a substantial saving of human resources but also improves the efficiency of the clinical diagnosis of diabetic cardiovascular disease, which is conducive to the early detection and treatment of diseases.
Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction: A Useful and Quick Tool for the Traceability and Quality Assessment of Wine Cork Stoppers
Authors: Díaz-Maroto M. Consuelo , Alarcón Marina , Loarce Lucía , Díaz-Maroto Ignacio J. , Pérez-Coello M. Soledad
Published: April 2023

Natural cork remains a favored option for sealing high-quality wine bottles, despite its high cost for wineries. The cork industry faces the challenge of certifying the quality and traceability of these corks, with physical–chemical characterization being a valuable tool in establishing these parameters. While cork taint compounds must be absent or in low concentrations, the volatile fraction of cork contains numerous compounds that, even in small amounts, can impact the wine’s final aroma. Moreover, these volatile compounds are indicative of the geographical origin of the cork planks used to make the stoppers. In this work, a total of 68 volatile compounds (alkanes, terpenes, benzenic compounds, aldehydes, ketones, acids, esters, alcohols and furanic and pyranic compounds) from natural corks of different qualities and origins were identified, using a fast and sensitive technique: headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). Based on these volatile compounds, it was possible to establish differences between corks of different origins, although no discernible differences were detected in the samples of differing visual qualities, as this is a subjective parameter largely dependent on the cork’s external appearance. These findings show that the analysis of the volatile composition of corks via HS-SPME-GC-MS can be used as a quick tool for tracking their traceability and selecting the most appropriate parameters at each stage of processing to minimize the increase in unwanted compounds.
HERMES CubeSat Payload Thermal Balance Test and Comparison with Finite Volume Thermal Model
Authors: Quirino Matteo , Sciarrone Giulia , Piazzolla Raffaele , Fuschino Fabio , Evangelista Yuri , Morgante Gianluca , Guilizzoni Manfredo , Marocco Luca , Silvestrini Stefano , Fiore Fabrizio , Lavagna Michèle
Published: April 2023

Scientific payloads onboard CubeSats usually have complex geometries and occasionally narrower allowed temperature ranges with respect to the rest of the spacecraft. In these cases, the capability to correctly predict the thermal behaviour of the payload once in orbit is mandatory. To achieve this ability, a thermal balance test is required to correctly identify the thermal model of the payload. The test consists in the application of different external thermal boundary conditions together with the addition of heat dissipation to simulate the thermal load produced by active electronics during operation. Those experimental data are fundamental to validate the numerical thermal model and make its predictions reliable. This paper presents the configuration and procedures of the thermal balance test performed on the Demonstration Model of the payload to be embarked on each satellite of the HERMES constellation. The test data is compared with the results of a finite volume thermal model of the payload, proving the application of this method to be reliable for space thermal analyses. The obtained test results show the temperature jumps caused by the heat dissipation applied to active components. A weak correlation between the payload interface and internal equipment has been observed, thus proving that the payload is almost decoupled from the Service Module temperature variations. Based on test outcomes, some modifications in the payload design have been implemented, with the aim to lower the operative temperature on critical, temperature-sensitive equipment.
Distribution of Arabinoxylans and Their Relationship with Physiochemical and Rheological Properties in Wheat Flour Mill Streams as an Effective Way to Predict Flour Functionality
Authors: Lewko Piotr , Wójtowicz Agnieszka , Gancarz Marek
Published: April 2023

The aim of the study was to evaluate wheat flour fractions and the relationships between the rheological properties of wheat flour mill streams with arabinoxylans content to predict flour functionality. The tested wheat variety was IS Laudis and an industrial milling station with several roll sections was employed to reach 30 passages of flour streams. Each mill stream fraction was analyzed separately. Several physiochemical (moisture, ash content, falling number, wet gluten content, gluten index, and damaged starch content) and rheological properties were evaluated by means of utilizing various test apparatus and techniques. The total content of non-starch polysaccharides and arabinoxylans, as well as soluble and insoluble fractions were investigated. Results showed significant differences between the mill streams in terms of the content of physicochemical parameters and rheological properties, as well as in soluble and insoluble fractions of non-starch polysaccharides and arabinoxylans. The relationships between the tested parameters and PCA analysis can be useful for millers who can then select and blend several flour streams to obtain a maximum amount of flour with specified characteristics. A better understanding of the origin and function of different fractions and the role of arabinoxylans and their fractions in the milling process will allow the development of wheat flour blends with the desired functionality. Flours from late reduction and sizing passages (C and R) as well as from sorting filter (V) streams showed high ash content as well as T-NSP and T-AX levels, so the final content of NSP in flour blends may be balanced by the application of the proper amount of C6–C7 and R5 stream flours.
Topology Optimization of Hydrodynamic Body Shape for Drag Reduction in Low Reynolds Number Based on Variable Density Method
Authors: Zhao Ning , Zhang Jianyu , Han Haitao , Miao Yongzhuang , Deng Yongbo
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a variable density topology optimization method to numerically investigate the optimal drag-reduction shape of objects in the two-dimensional and three-dimensional flows with steady incompressible external flow conditions, taking into account material volume constraints. By introducing the porous media model, the artificial Darcy friction is added to the Navier-Stokes equation to characterize the influence of materials on the fluid. Material density is applied to implement material interpolation. By transforming the boundary integral form of viscous dissipative expression of drag into the volume integral of artificial Darcy friction and convection term, we solve the problem of drag expression on the implicit interface corresponding to the structure. The continuous adjoint method is used to analyze gradient information for iteratively solving topology optimization problems. We obtain the relevant topology optimization structures of the minimum drag shapes, investigate the effect of the low Reynolds number on the drag force corresponding to two objective functions and discuss the mechanism of drag reduction by a hydrodynamic body shape.
Different Chondrus crispus Aquaculture Methods and Carrageenan Extraction
Authors: Tanoeiro João Rui , Fortunato Duarte , Cotas João , Morais Tiago , Afonso Clélia , Pereira Leonel
Published: April 2023

With the notable scarcity of Chondrus crispus on the Portuguese coast, and interest in exploiting compounds such as carrageenan, this study focuses on investigating different aquaculture methods and recording the yield of carrageenan from specimens grown by different methods. We compare the growth of Chondrus crispus in aquaculture using Free Floating, Cages, Attempted Fixation on Rock, and Fixed Line similar to Long Line. The best method was Free Floating where Nursery 0 had a 24-day Specific Growth Rate (SGR) of 2.08 ± 0.47%/day. The worst method in terms of growth was Nursery 2 (Attempted Fixation on Rock) where the SGR at 28 days was 0.33 ± 0.69%/day, and no fixation was observed. In terms of carrageenan extraction, all culture methods gave rise to biomass that had a lower extraction yield than wild specimens, at 50.95 ± 4.10%. However, the Free-Floating method from Nursery 1 showed an acceptable carrageenan content (31.43 ± 7.00%). Therefore, we demonstrate that the concept of C. crispus cultivation may be key to promoting the sustainability and stability of this species.
VanityX: An Agile 3D Rendering Platform Supporting Mixed Reality
Authors: Zoraja Ivan , Bonkovic Mirjana , Papic Vladan , Sunderam Vaidy
Published: April 2023

VanityX is a prototype, low-level, real-time 3D rendering and computing platform. Unlike most XR solutions, which integrate several commercial and/or open-source products, such as game engines, XR libraries, runtime, and services, VanityX is a platform ready to adapt to any business domain including anthropology and medicine. The design, architecture, and implementation are presented, which are based on CPU and GPU asymmetric multiprocessing with explicit synchronization and collaboration of parallel tasks and a predictable transfer of pipeline resources between processors. The VanityX API is based on DirectX 12 and native programming languages C++20 and HLSL 6, which, in conjunction with explicit parallel processing, the asynchronous loading and explicit managing of graphic resources, and effective algorithms, results in great performance and resource utilization close to metal. Surface-based rendering, direct volume rendering (DVR), and mixed reality (MR) on the HoloLens 2 immersive headset are currently supported. Our MR applications are directly compiled and deployed to HoloLens 2 allowing for better programming experiences and software engineering practices such as testing, debugging, and profiling. The VanityX server provides various computational and rendering services to its clients running on HoloLens 2. The use and test cases are in many business domains including anthropology and medicine. Our future research challenges will primarily, via the MetaverseMed project, focus on opening new opportunities for implementing innovative MR-based scenarios in medical procedures, especially in education, diagnostics, and surgical operations.
CRC-Based Reliable WiFi Backscatter Communiation for Supply Chain Management
Authors: Liu Yun-Hao , Liu Tao , Huang Yimeng , Ding Han , Xi Wei , Gong Wei
Published: April 2023

Supply chain management aims to achieve both efficiency and low cost. Backscatter technology provides a low-energy consumption approach for critical links in the supply chain, such as warehouse management and cargo identification. Traditional backscatter systems achieve tag data transmission through dedicated hardware or controlled transmission sources. An additional access point (AP) can be used to ensure that the original data are always known in tag data decoding. These requirements increase the deployment costs and are not suitable for large-scale applications. To address these challenges, we introduce CRCScatter, a backscatter system based on a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) reverse algorithm, with an uncontrolled source and a single-AP receiver. The CRCScatter decoder at the receiver uses the constraints within 802.11b WiFi packets to recover the original packet and decode tag data from the backscatter packet. Our Matlab simulation results show that CRCScatter is effective in the low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) regime, and its average decoding time is independent of the length of tag data. By appending redundant bits in tag data, the decoding accuracy of CRCScatter can be improved. In summary, CRCScatter presents a backscatter communication mode based on ambient WiFi signals with fewer hardware requirements and low deployment costs. Furthermore, the decoding idea of calculating unknown data based on the packet constraints has the potential to expand to different types of excitation packages.
Development of a Multi-Objective Optimal Design Approach for Combined Water Systems
Authors: Ko Mun Jin , Choi Young Hwan
Published: April 2023

Recently, due to extreme climate change, damage from flooding has been increasing; however, water shortages are being announced simultaneously. Moreover, the water distribution system’s ability to supply consumers is being overwhelmed because of urbanization, population concentration, and increases in water consumption. For this reason, to solve the water shortage problem, water reuse technologies are developing and improving that perform simple chemical treatment processes to reuse water for flushing toilets, washing, gardening, etc. but not as drinking water. However, most water reuse systems are designed and operated as independent systems, such as reusing water used in individual buildings or using rainwater. Therefore, this study develops an optimal design for the combined water systems, which is modeling and designing water distribution systems, urban drainage systems, and water reuse systems simultaneously to solve the water shortage and reduce flooding damage. To consider the combined water systems design, the existing water distribution system (WDS) demand is divided into drinking water and other uses, and the resource of other water is assumed by the rainwater storage tank for covering the amount of exceeding precipitation. To derive optimal design solutions for the combined three water systems, single- and multi-objective optimization techniques are applied considering various design criteria (i.e., construction cost, system resilience, and flooding volume on the exceeding design rainfall intensity). The developed combining water system design techniques could be used to create designs that solve the problems of medium and long-term water shortages and sustainable water systems development.
A Review on Ultrafast Laser Enabled Excellent Superhydrophobic Anti-Icing Performances
Authors: Wang Lizhong , Zhao Huanyu , Zhu Dongyu , Yuan Li , Zhang Hongjun , Fan Peixun , Zhong Minlin
Published: April 2023

Fabricating and developing superhydrophobic anti-icing surfaces have been a research hotspot for eliminating undesired icing issues. Among various fabricating strategies, ultrafast laser micro-nano fabrication is regarded as a greatly promising technique owing to its advantages of high geometric accuracy, highly flexible microstructure or dimension availability, no contact, and no material limitation. A number of diverse micro-nanostructured superhydrophobic surfaces have been developed by ultrafast lasers and demonstrated extraordinary anti-icing properties. They are collectively known as ultrafast laser-fabricated superhydrophobic anti-icing surfaces (ULSASs). In this article, we reviewed the recent advances in ULSASs from micro-nano structure fabricating to anti-icing performances and to potential applications. The surface wettability and mechanisms of ultrafast laser micro-nano fabrication are first introduced, showing the strong ability of ultrafast laser for fabricating superhydrophobic surfaces. Then the deepened understanding of the relationship between superhydrophobicity and icephobicity is discussed in detail, including Cassie–Baxter stability, surface durability and environmental adaptability. Eventually, the passive anti-icing technique, the passive/active combined anti-icing technique and their practical applications are presented together with current challenges and future prospects.
Controller Design and Stability Analysis of an MSR Plant Based on a Nonlinear Distributed-Parameter Model
Authors: Xie Chao , Luo Run , Revankar Shripad T. , Yu Tao
Published: April 2023

A molten-salt reactor (MSR), in which the nuclear waste can be separated and taken away from the liquid fuel through online chemical treatment, has remarkable advantages in safety and economics. To ensure the safe operation of an MSR plant, it is necessary to carry out a controller design and stability analysis of the whole system. In this work, a nonlinear distributed-parameter model of an MSR plant with a graphite-moderated liquid core was established and verified by the reference model. By applying a joint feedforward and feedback control strategy, the power controller and steam temperature controller were designed to adjust the plant load. The Nyquist criterion was used to assess the stability of the control system. The system responses to four different perturbations at the nominal power level were simulated, and the results show that the designed controllers have good reliability. In addition, the control performance was tested in two load change cases: a step load reduction and a linear load change. The dynamic response characteristics of the system parameters show that the developed control system based on the nonlinear distributed-parameter model is capable of fast and accurate regulation.
Experimental Granulometric Characterization of Wood Particles from CNC Machining of Chipboard
Authors: Koleda Pavol , Koleda Peter , Hrčková Mária , Júda Martin , Hortobágyi Áron
Published: April 2023

The aim of this paper is to determine the particle size composition of the wood particles obtained from CNC milling the chipboard using an experimental optical granulometric method. Composite materials (chipboard) are the most-used materials in the woodworking and furniture industries. The proposed optical method of measuring particles’ dimensions is compared to the sieving technique. The researched experimental method allows for the determination of not only the size of the fraction of an individual particle’s fraction but also more detailed information about the analyzed wood dust emission, for example, the largest and smallest dimension of each single particle; its circularity, area, perimeter, eccentricity, and convex hull major and minor axis length; or the color of the particle.
Sensitivity Analysis of the Design Parameters of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors for Vibration Reduction
Authors: Mendizabal Mikel , McCloskey Alex , Poza Javier , Zarate Sergio , Irazu Leire
Published: April 2023

The use of electric motors, and particularly, Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors, is increasing in recent years, and their vibration response is one of the most crucial aspects regarding their behaviour. Thus, the reduction in vibrations is one of the key objectives when optimizing electric motors. In an initial design state, the influence of the main design parameters on the behaviour of the machines is not always clear. For that reason, this work presents a global sensitivity analysis procedure that allows identifying the most influential design parameters and determining guidelines to optimize the design of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors. First, the analytical calculations employed to estimate the electromagnetic torque and the vibration response of the machine are described. Then, the sensitivity analysis procedure, based on the Monte Carlo method, is presented, and the conditions to apply the method successfully and accurately are analysed. Finally, the sensitivity analysis is performed for a particular electric motor design, and some general design guidelines are deduced, which can be extrapolated to similar machines.
A Framework for Frugal Supervised Learning with Incremental Neural Networks
Authors: Cholet Stephane , Biabiany Emmanuel
Published: April 2023

This study proposes an implementation of an incremental neural network (INN) that was initially designed for affective computing tasks. INNs are a family of machine learning algorithms that combine prototype-based classifiers with neural networks. They achieve state-of-the-art performance with less data than traditional approaches. In this research, we conduct an in-depth review of INN mechanisms and present a research-grade framework that enables the use of INNs on arbitrary data. We evaluated our implementation on two different datasets, including the AVEC2014 Challenge, which involved predicting depressive state from auditive and visual modalities. Our results are encouraging, demonstrating the potential of INNs in situations where approaches have to be explainable or when data are scarce.
A Pilot Study of Stacked Autoencoders for Ship Mode Classification
Authors: Kim Ji-Yoon , Oh Jin-Seok
Published: April 2023

With the evolution of the shipping market, artificial intelligence research using ship data is being actively conducted. Smart ships and reducing ship greenhouse gas emissions are among the most actively researched topics in the maritime transport industry. Owing to the massive advances in information and communications technology, the internet of things, and big data technologies, smart ships have emerged as a very promising proposition. Numerous methodologies and network architectures can smoothly collect data from ships that are currently in operation, as is currently done in research on reducing ship fuel consumption by deep learning or conventional methods. Many extensive studies of stacked autoencoders have been carried out in the past few years. However, prior studies have not addressed the development of algorithms or deep learning-based models to classify the operating states of ships. In this paper, we propose for the first time a deep learning-based stacked autoencoder model that can classify the operating state of a ship broadly into the categories of At Sea, Stand By, and In Port, using actual ship power load data. In order to maximize the model’s performance, the stacked autoencoder architecture, number of hidden layers, and number of neurons contained in each layer were measured by performance metrics such as true positive rate, false positive rate, Matthews correlation coefficient, and accuracy. It was found that the model’s performance was not always improved by increasing its complexity, so the feasibility of developing and utilizing an efficient model was verified by comparing it to real data. The best-performing model had a (5–128) structure with latent layer size 9. It achieved a true positive rate of 0.9035, a false positive rate of 0.0541, a Matthews correlation coefficient of 0.9054, and an accuracy of 0.9612, clearly demonstrating that deep learning can be used to analyze ship operating modes.