bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endocannabinoid basis of personality—Insights from animal model of social behavior
Authors: Kogan Natalya M. , Begmatova Dilorom , Vinnikova Liudmila , Malitsky Sergey , Itkin Maxim , Sharon Eyal , Klinov Artem , Gorelick Jonathan , Koman Igor , Vogel Zvi , Mechoulam Raphael , Pinhasov Albert
Published: August 2023

Rationale: The endocannabinoid system is known to be involved in learning, memory, emotional processing and regulation of personality patterns. Here we assessed the endocannabinoid profile in the brains of mice with strong characteristics of social dominance and submissiveness.

Methods: A lipidomics approach was employed to assess the endocannabinoidome in the brains of Dominant (Dom) and Submissive (Sub) mice. The endocannabinoid showing the greatest difference in concentration in the brain between the groups, docosatetraenoyl ethanolamine (DEA), was synthesized, and its effects on the physiological and behavioral responses of Dom and Sub mice were evaluated. mRNA expression of the endocannabinoid receptors and enzymes involved in PUFA biosynthesis was assessed using qRT-PCR.

Results: Targeted LC/MS analysis revealed that long-chain polyunsaturated ethanolamides including arachidonoyl ethanolamide (AEA), DEA, docosatrienoyl ethanolamide (DTEA), eicosatrienoyl ethanolamide (ETEA), eicosapentaenoyl ethanolamide (EPEA) and docosahexaenoyl ethanolamide (DHEA) were higher in the Sub compared with the Dom mice. Untargeted LC/MS analysis showed that the parent fatty acids, docosatetraenoic (DA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA), were higher in Sub vs. Dom. Gene expression analysis revealed increased mRNA expression of genes encoding the desaturase FADS2 and the elongase ELOVL5 in Sub mice compared with Dom mice. Acute DEA administration at the dose of 15 mg/kg produced antinociceptive and locomotion-inducing effects in Sub mice, but not in Dom mice. Subchronic treatment with DEA at the dose of 5 mg/kg augmented dominant behavior in wild-type ICR and Dom mice but not in Sub mice.

Conclusion: This study suggests that the endocannabinoid system may play a role in the regulation of dominance and submissiveness, functional elements of social behavior and personality. While currently we have only scratched the surface, understanding the role of the endocannabinoid system in personality may help in revealing the mechanisms underlying the etiopathology of psychiatric disorders.
Characterizing light-dark cycles in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Van der Linden Isabelle A. , Hazelhoff Esther M. , De Groot Eline R. , Vijlbrief Daniel C. , Schlangen Luc J. M. , De Kort Yvonne A. W. , Vermeulen Marijn J. , Van Gilst Demy , Dudink Jeroen , Kervezee Laura
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To characterize bedside 24-h patterns in light exposure in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and to explore the environmental and individual patient characteristics that influence these patterns in this clinical setting.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study that included 79 very preterm infants who stayed in an incubator with a built-in light sensor. Bedside light exposure was measured continuously (one value per minute). Based on these data, various metrics (including relative amplitude, intradaily variability, and interdaily stability) were calculated to characterize the 24-h patterns of light exposure. Next, we determined the association between these metrics and various environmental and individual patient characteristics.

Results: A 24-h light-dark cycle was apparent in the NICU with significant differences in light exposure between the three nurse shifts (p < 0.001), with the highest values in the morning and the lowest values at night. Light exposure was generally low, with illuminances rarely surpassing 75 lux, and highly variable between patients and across days within a single patient. Furthermore, the season of birth and phototherapy had a significant effect on 24-h light-dark cycles, whereas no effect of bed location and illness severity were observed.

Conclusion: Even without an official lighting regime set, a 24-h light-dark cycle was observed in the NICU. Various rhythmicity metrics can be used to characterize 24-h light-dark cycles in a clinical setting and to study the relationship between light patterns and health outcomes.
Measuring calcium content in plants using NEXAFS spectroscopy
Authors: Rongpipi Sintu , Barnes William J. , Siemianowski Oskar , Del Mundo Joshua T. , Wang Cheng , Freychet Guillaume , Zhernenkov Mikhail , Anderson Charles T. , Gomez Esther W. , Gomez Enrique D.
Published: August 2023

Calcium is important for the growth and development of plants. It serves crucial functions in cell wall and cell membrane structure and serves as a secondary messenger in signaling pathways relevant to nutrient and immunity responses. Thus, measuring calcium levels in plants is important for studies of plant biology and for technology development in food, agriculture, energy, and forest industries. Often, calcium in plants has been measured through techniques such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS), inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and electrophysiology. These techniques, however, require large sample sizes, chemical extraction of samples or have limited spatial resolution. Here, we used near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy at the calcium L- and K-edges to measure the calcium to carbon mass ratio with spatial resolution in plant samples without requiring chemical extraction or large sample sizes. We demonstrate that the integrated absorbance at the calcium L-edge and the edge jump in the fluorescence yield at the calcium K-edge can be used to quantify the calcium content as the calcium mass fraction, and validate this approach with onion epidermal peels and ICP-MS. We also used NEXAFS to estimate the calcium mass ratio in hypocotyls of a model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana, which has a cell wall composition that is similar to that of onion epidermal peels. These results show that NEXAFS spectroscopy performed at the calcium edge provides an approach to quantify calcium levels within plants, which is crucial for understanding plant physiology and advancing plant-based materials.
Advancement of non-destructive spectral measurements for the quality of major tropical fruits and vegetables: a review
Authors: Aline Umuhoza , Bhattacharya Tanima , Faqeerzada Mohammad Akbar , Kim Moon S. , Baek Insuck , Cho Byoung-Kwan
Published: August 2023

The quality of tropical fruits and vegetables and the expanding global interest in eating healthy foods have resulted in the continual development of reliable, quick, and cost-effective quality assurance methods. The present review discusses the advancement of non-destructive spectral measurements for evaluating the quality of major tropical fruits and vegetables. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Near-infrared (NIR), Raman spectroscopy, and hyperspectral imaging (HSI) were used to monitor the external and internal parameters of papaya, pineapple, avocado, mango, and banana. The ability of HSI to detect both spectral and spatial dimensions proved its efficiency in measuring external qualities such as grading 516 bananas, and defects in 10 mangoes and 10 avocados with 98.45%, 97.95%, and 99.9%, respectively. All of the techniques effectively assessed internal characteristics such as total soluble solids (TSS), soluble solid content (SSC), and moisture content (MC), with the exception of NIR, which was found to have limited penetration depth for fruits and vegetables with thick rinds or skins, including avocado, pineapple, and banana. The appropriate selection of NIR optical geometry and wavelength range can help to improve the prediction accuracy of these crops. The advancement of spectral measurements combined with machine learning and deep learning technologies have increased the efficiency of estimating the six maturity stages of papaya fruit, from the unripe to the overripe stages, with F1 scores of up to 0.90 by feature concatenation of data developed by HSI and visible light. The presented findings in the technological advancements of non-destructive spectral measurements offer promising quality assurance for tropical fruits and vegetables.
Altered brain network organization in adults with Asperger's syndrome: decreased connectome transitivity and assortativity with increased global efficiency
Authors: Javaheripour Nooshin , Wagner Gerd , de la Cruz Feliberto , Walter Martin , Szycik Gregor R. , Tietze Fabian-Alexander
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that persists into adulthood with both social and cognitive disturbances. Asperger's syndrome (AS) was a distinguished subcategory of autism in the DSM-IV-TR defined by specific symptoms including difficulties in social interactions, inflexible thinking patterns, and repetitive behaviour without any delay in language or cognitive development. Studying the functional brain organization of individuals with these specific symptoms may help to better understand Autism spectrum symptoms.

Methods

The aim of this study is therefore to investigate functional connectivity as well as functional network organization characteristics using graph-theory measures of the whole brain in male adults with AS compared to healthy controls (HC) (AS: n = 15, age range 21–55 (mean ± sd: 39.5 ± 11.6), HC: n = 15, age range 22–57 [mean ± sd: 33.5 ± 8.5]).

Results

No significant differences were found when comparing the region-by-region connectivity at the whole-brain level between the AS group and HC. However, measures of “transitivity,” which reflect local information processing and functional segregation, and “assortativity,” indicating network resilience, were reduced in the AS group compared to HC. On the other hand, global efficiency, which represents the overall effectiveness and speed of information transfer across the entire brain network, was increased in the AS group.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that individuals with AS may have alterations in the organization and functioning of brain networks, which could contribute to the distinctive cognitive and behavioural features associated with this condition. We suggest further research to explore the association between these altered functional patterns in brain networks and specific behavioral traits observed in individuals with AS, which could provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of its symptomatology.
Strategies for public health adaptation to climate change in practice: social learning in the processionary Moth Knowledge Platform
Authors: Buist Yvette , Bekker Marleen , Vaandrager Lenneke , Koelen Maria , van Mierlo Barbara
Published: August 2023

Social learning theory can support understanding of how a group of diverse actors addresses complex challenges related to public health adaptation. This study focuses on one specific issue of public health adaptation: oak processionary moth (OPM) adaptation. With a social learning framework, we examined how public health adaption strategies gradually develop and are adjusted on the basis of new knowledge and experiences. For this qualitative case study, data were collected through 27 meetings of the Processionary Moth Knowledge Platform in the Netherlands and six additional interviews. Results indicate that relations between stakeholders, including experts played a major role in the learning process, facilitating the development and implementation of OPM adaptation and connecting local challenges to national adaptation strategies. Uncertainties regarding knowledge and organization were recurrent topics of discussion, highlighting the iterative and adaptive nature of public health adaptation. The study emphasizes the importance of building relationships among stakeholders and small steps in the learning process that can lead to the creation of new strategies and, if successful, the prevention of negative health impacts.
Clinical outcomes of a digitally supported approach for self-management of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: De Luca Vincenzo , Bozzetto Lutgarda , Giglio Clemente , Tramontano Giovanni , De Simone Giuseppina , Luciano Antonio , Lucibelli Luigi , Maffettone Ada , Riccio Michele , Romano Geremia , Rossi Ernesto , Chiatti Carlos Juan , Berler Alexander , Iaccarino Guido , Illario Maddalena , Annuzzi Giovanni
Published: August 2023

Background

Self-management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is challenging. Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose and healthy lifestyles are required to improve glycometabolic control, thus delaying diabetes complications, and reducing hospitalizations. Digital technologies can empower patients in their disease management promoting self-management and motivation to change behaviors. We report the results of an exploratory trial aimed at evaluating the metabolic outcomes of using digital solutions for T2D self-management developed in the ProEmpower project, a European Commission funded Pre-Commercial Procurement.

Methods

Two digital solutions, DM4All and DiaWatch, which were codesigned with providers, patients, and caregivers, enabled the collection of clinical parameters by the patient using a smartphone integrated with the medical devices (glucometer, sphygmomanometer, scale, smart watch for heart rate monitoring and step counter). Data were automatically sent to the shared care plan allowing professionals to monitor adherence to treatment, set goals, and communicate more effectively with patients. At baseline and after an average follow-up of 8 months, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, blood pressure, and blood lipids were measured in 100 T2D patients using the ProEmpower solutions across different diabetes centers in Campania Region, age 45–79  years, both genders, and compared with a Control cohort of T2D patients (n = 100) with similar clinical characteristics and followed for a comparable period of observation in the same centers.

Results

At baseline, the ProEmpower participants and the Control subjects were on average overweight, with a similar BMI in the two cohorts, and mean HbA1c was at acceptable levels (around 7.0%). After the 8 month exploratory trial, body weight, HbA1c, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and plasma and LDL-cholesterol significantly decreased in the ProEmpower participants compared to baseline (p < 0.05 for all). The changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and plasma and LDL-cholesterol were significantly different from those observed in the Control cohort (p < 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

This pilot study showed positive effects on metabolic outcomes relevant to cardiovascular risk in T2D of adopting digital telemedicine self-monitoring solutions based on automation of measurements and coaching on healthy lifestyles promotion.
Local transplantation, adaptation, and creation of AI models for public health policy
Authors: Fournier-Tombs Eleonore
Published: August 2023

This paper presents the Transplantation, Adaptation and Creation (TAC) framework, a method for assessing the localization of different elements of an AI system. This framework is applied in the public health context, notably to different types of models that were used during the COVID-19 pandemic. The framework aims to guide AI for public health developers and public health officials in conceptualizing model localization. The paper provides guidance justifying the importance of model localization, within a broader context of policy models, geopolitics and decolonization. It also suggests procedures for moving between the different elements in the framework, for example going from transplantation to adapation, and from adaptation to creation. This paper is submitted as part of a special research topic entitled: A digitally-enabled, science-based global pandemic preparedness and response scheme: how ready are we for the next pandemic?
Phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli strains isolated from household dogs in Chile
Authors: Galarce Nicolás , Arriagada Gabriel , Sánchez Fernando , Escobar Beatriz , Miranda Mauricio , Matus Sofía , Vilches Rocío , Varela Camila , Zelaya Carlos , Peralta Josefa , Paredes-Osses Esteban , González-Rocha Gerardo , Lapierre Lisette
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major threat to animal and public health worldwide; consequently, several AMR surveillances programs have been implemented internationally in both human and veterinary medicine, including indicator bacteria such as Escherichia coli. However, companion animals are not typically included in these surveillance programs. Nevertheless, there have been reports of increasing levels of antimicrobial resistance in E. coli strains isolated from dogs worldwide. In Chile, there is limited information available on AMR in E. coli isolated from companion animals, which prevents the establishment of objective prevention and control measures.

Methods

For this reason, the aim of this study was to characterize the phenotypic and genotypic AMR of E. coli strains isolated from healthy household dogs in Chile. For this purpose, a multi-stage sampling was carried out in the Metropolitan Region of Chile, obtaining samples from 600 healthy dogs. These samples were processed using traditional bacteriology and molecular techniques to isolate E. coli strains. We assessed the minimal inhibitory concentration of 17 antimicrobials and conducted a search of six antimicrobial resistance genes, as well as class 1 and 2 integrons, in the isolated strains.

Results

Two-hundred and twenty-four strains of E. coli were recovered, and 96.9% (n = 217) showed resistance to at least one drug and only 3.1% (n = 7) were susceptible to all analyzed antimicrobials. Most strains were resistant to cefalexin (91.5%, n = 205, 1st-generation cephalosporin), followed by ampicillin (68.3%, n = 153) and cefpodoxime (31.3%, n = 70, 3rd-generation cephalosporin). Moreover, 24.1% (n = 54) tested positive for extended-spectrum-β-lactamases and 34.4% (n = 77) were multidrug resistant. As for the AMR genes, the most detected was qnrB (28.1%, n = 63), followed by blaCTX-M (22.3%, n = 50), and blaTEM-1 (19.6%, n = 44). Additionally, 16.1% (n = 36) harbored class 1 integrons. Our study shows that E. coli strains isolated from healthy household dogs exhibit resistance to several relevant drugs and also antimicrobial resistance genes considered critical for human health. These results can be used as a starting point for the prevention and control of antimicrobial resistance from companion animals. This background should be considered when formulating future resistance surveillance programs or control plans in which companion animals must be included.
The Green Transition Impact on Mineral Raw Materials Supply
Authors: András József , Harrell Yannick , Tashchi Eugène
Published: August 2023

Minerals are an essential component of many parts of today's fast-growing clean energy technologies – from wind turbines and power grids to electric vehicles. Demand for these minerals will grow rapidly as the clean energy transition accelerates. The paper examines some prospects for the transformation of the complex relationships between minerals and the energy sector in the green transition, focused mainly on electric vehicles expansion and related mineral resources demand increase.
Optimization of Protoplast Preparation System from Leaves and Establishment of a Transient Transformation System in Apium graveolens
Authors: Du Jiageng , Zhang Huitao , Li Weilong , Li Xiaoyan , Wang Zhuo , Zhang Ying , Xiong Aisheng , Li Mengyao
Published: August 2023

Protoplast culture and transformation technology offer a novel method for developing new plant varieties. Nonetheless, the effective preparation of protoplasts and transformation technology specific to celery has yet to be achieved. This study utilized celery seedling leaves as the primary materials to examine the key factors influencing protoplast isolation. The aim was to prepare leaf protoplasts with a high yield and of high quality and subsequently conduct transient gene transformation and expression. The findings indicated that the most effective procedure for isolating and purifying protoplasts was enzymatic digestion using an enzyme solution consisting of 2.0% cellulase, 0.1% pectolase, and 0.6 M mannitol for a duration of 8 h. Subsequently, the protoplasts were filtered through a 400-mesh sieve and purified through centrifugation at 200× g. Within this system, the overall protoplast yield was exceptionally high, reaching a viability rate of up to 95%. The transient transformation system yielded a maximum transformation efficiency of approximately 53%, as evaluated using the green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a reporter gene. The parameters of the transient transformation system were as follows: a protoplast concentration of 5 × 105 cells·mL−1, exogenous DNA concentration of 500 μg·mL−1, final concentration of PEG4000 at 40%, and transformation duration of 15 min. The transient transformation system was also utilized to further analyze the protein localization characteristics of the celery transcription factor AgMYB80. The findings indicated that AgMYB80 predominantly localizes in the nucleus, thereby confirming the reliability and effectiveness of the transient transformation system. This study successfully established an efficient system for isolating, purifying, and transforming celery protoplasts, and will serve as a basis for future studies on molecular biology and gene function.
Monitoring of Soil Nutrient Levels by an EC Sensor during Spring Onion (Allium fistulosum) Cultivation under Different Fertilizer Treatments
Authors: Vyavahare Govind Dnyandev , Lee Yejin , Seok Yeong Ju , Kim Han Na , Sung Jwakyung , Park Jin Hee
Published: August 2023

Balanced nutrients are essential for healthy plant growth, but there is no sensor available to monitor essential nutrients such as N and K. Electrical conductivity (EC) is one of the key parameters that could be adopted to monitor nutrient contents because soil EC is influenced by the available nutrients. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to examine the effects of different basal fertilizers, including inorganic, organic, and compost fertilizers, and the application ratio of basal and additional fertilizers on nutrient contents with an EC sensor. The applied basal and additional fertilizer ratios were N 30:70, K 40:60, and N 20:80, K 20:80, respectively, for each fertilizer treatment. The results showed that the EC sensor value was positively associated with water content. The soil EC response increased with inorganic fertilizer and fertigation, and it was positively correlated with soluble nutrients and exchangeable ammonium. The correlation coefficients between sensor EC and soluble nutrients, nitrate, and ammonium nitrogen were 0.87, 0.86, and 0.65, respectively. The principal component analysis (PCA) also elucidated that inorganic fertilizer was positively associated with sensor EC, soluble Na, Ca, Mg, and nitrate among variables. This work suggests that soil available nutrients, especially N, could be monitored with an EC sensor, and the soil nutrient status could be regulated to promote better plant growth.
Self-Curing Glass Ionomer Cement Covered by Photopolymerizable Adhesive for Protection of Mucoperiosteal or Gingival Flap Sutures in Canine Oral Surgery
Authors: Bellettini Salviano Tramontin , da Silva Regiane Pereira Baptista , Giovanelli Diogo Fernandes , Lourenço Emerson Luiz Botelho , da Cruz Alves Pereira Elton , Sakumoto Karina , Gonçalves Daniela Dib , Pachaly José Ricardo
Published: August 2023

Periodontal disease is one of the main affections of the oral cavity of dogs. Its main complication is the formation of periapical abscess, which, when affecting the maxillary canine teeth, can lead to the formation of oronasal fistulae. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of self-curing glass ionomer cement, covered by photopolymerizable adhesive, as a protective element for mucoperiosteal or gingival flap sutures in oral surgery of dogs. We studied 15 dogs from the clinical routine of the dental service of a teaching veterinary hospital, which needed oral surgeries to correct oronasal fistulae, defects or oral cavity communications, regardless of the causal agent. Group one (G1) was composed of seven animals that presented oronasal fistulae after the extraction of maxillary canine teeth compromised by severe periodontal disease. These fistulae were reduced by the double-mucoperiosteal-flap technique, 15 days after the dental extraction. Group two (G2) was composed of five other dogs that presented oronasal fistulae after the extraction of maxillary canine teeth compromised by severe periodontal disease. In this group, the fistulae were reduced by the single-flap technique, immediately after the dental extraction. Group three (G3) was composed of three animals, two of which presented oronasal fistulae due to maxillary fracture and the third one after excision of oral neoplasia. In all groups, simple interrupted sutures were used with 3.0 nylon, and a thin layer of self-curing glass ionomer cement was applied immediately over the operated area. After cement’s settling time, a thin layer of photopolymerizable adhesive was applied to the already polymerized cement. In G1, the protective cement was removed on average at 15 (±2) postoperative days, in G2 at 6 (±1) days and in G3 at 11 (±9) days. In the postoperative period, the animals received antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, and they received their usual dry dog food diet. No Elizabethan collar or any other protective measure was used for suturing or the surgical wound. The result was healing of 100% of the oronasal fistulae, without suture dehiscence or the need for new surgical interventions. Thus, it was concluded that the use of self-curing glass ionomer cement covered by photopolymerizable adhesive was fully satisfactory, providing protection of sutures and surgical wounds and showing the potential for routine use in oral surgery in dogs.
Semi-Quantitative Biosecurity Assessment Framework Targeting Prevention of the Introduction and Establishment of Salmonella Dublin in Dairy Cattle Herds
Authors: Pedersen Lars , Houe Hans , Rattenborg Erik , Nielsen Liza Rosenbaum
Published: August 2023

An increasing average herd size and complexity in farm structures call for a higher level of biosecurity. It can reduce the risk of introducing and establishing pathogens with multiple-pathway and indirect spread mechanisms, such as Salmonella Dublin, a pathogen with an increasing occurrence in dairy cattle farms across different countries and continents. Therefore, this study aimed to use existing knowledge to develop a framework with a supporting tool allowing for a time-efficient, yet comprehensive, assessment of biosecurity measures that can help prevent the introduction and establishment of S. Dublin in dairy herds. Based on the literature review, a seven-step biosecurity assessment framework was developed and evaluated in collaboration with biosecurity experts. The resulting framework includes a weighted semi-quantitative assessment method with a scoring guide in an electronic supporting tool for 12 biosecurity sections assessed through on-farm observations and farmer interviews. The framework and tool provide a novel approach to comprehensively assess the overall (mainly external) on-farm biosecurity level by a trained biosecurity assessor. They can be used for systematic data collection in epidemiological studies on risk factors for the introduction and establishment of S. Dublin in dairy farms. Preliminary interrater reliability testing indicated moderate reliability between assessors with varying biosecurity skills.
The Protective Effect of a Dietary Extract of Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Leaves against a High Stocking Density, Copper and Trichlorfon in Crucian Carp (Carassius auratus)
Authors: Chen Gangfu , Long Jiao , Li Huatao , Xu Jing , Yuan Jia , Yang Qihui , Feng Lin , Wu Min , Jiang Jun
Published: August 2023

This study was designed to examine the protective effects of the extract of mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaves (EML) on crucian carp (Carassius auratus) against a high stocking density, Cu exposure and trichlorfon exposure, which adversely impact fish growth performance, feed intake and fish locomotion. High stocking densities decreased the activities of amylase, lipase, trypsin, Na+/K+-ATPase and alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and increased the content of malonaldehyde (MDA) in fish digestive organs, indicating an impairment of the digestive function and a disturbance of the antioxidant status. Cu exposure increased the activities of glutamate–oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) and glutamate–pyruvate transaminase (GPT) in fish digestive organs, suggesting the activation of amino acid metabolism. Furthermore, trichlorfon exposure reduced the activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glutathione reductase (GR), GOT and GPT, and the capacities of the anti-superoxide anion (ASA) and anti-hydroxyl radical (AHR) in fish muscles, indicating a disruption of the bioenergetic homeostasis and antioxidant status. Our present study indicates that dietary EML supplementation relieved the detrimental effects induced by these stressors.
Modeling of Traffic Flows Sustainability on Highway Network Stretches
Authors: Vojtov Viktor , Muzylyov Dmitriy , Karnaukh Mykola , Kravtcov Andriy , Goryayinov Oleksiy , Gorodetska Tetiana , Ivanov Vitalii , Pavlenko Ivan
Published: August 2023

Assessing the transport flow robustness is a significant aspect of a qualitative solution to traffic management problems. Therefore, management should be based on appropriate criteria, accounting for different factors characterizing traffic flow sustainability. That’s why it is crucial to establish the impact rate for each group of factors on the robustness criterion. Therefore, the current study aims to obtain the dependence of the criterion changes for traffic flow sustainability on the traffic jam occurrence when changing the gradients’ product of traffic flow density and its speed. The value of the robustness criterion allows for performing an impact rating for input factors on traffic flow sustainability. All factors affecting transport flow robustness are divided into three groups. Based on simulation results, factors rating that impact the robustness margin value of the traffic flow is presented. Length and weight of automobiles are at first place according to impact terms on the sustainability loss of the traffic flow. In second place of impact on sustainability loss are the temporary factors group and factors group that considers the roadway environment’s infrastructure. Hence, the results can be used to analyze sustainability traffic flows in controlled highway network stretches and develop measures to increase sustainability reserve.
HIT Solar Cell Modeling Using Graphene as a Transparent Conductive Layer Considering the Atacama Desert Solar Spectrum
Authors: Revollo Henrry , Ferrada Pablo , Martin Pablo , Marzo Aitor , del Campo Valeria
Published: August 2023

The optical and geometrical properties of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) are crucial factors influencing the efficiency of a−Si:H/c−Si heterojunction (HIT) solar cells. Graphene is a potential candidate to be used as TCO due to its optical and electrical properties. Here, the effect of graphene as TCO is numerically analyzed by varying the number of graphene layers from one to ten. First, the optical properties are calculated based on the transmittance data, and then the HJT cell’s performance is simulated under the AM1.5 standard spectrum and the mean Atacama Desert solar spectral irradiance in Chile. In the modeling, the most relevant properties are calculated with the spectrum of the Atacama Desert. The most relevant values were obtained as follows: open circuit voltage Voc=721.4 mV, short circuit current Jsc=39.6 mA/cm2, fill factor FF=76.5%, and energy conversion efficiency Eff=21.6%. The maximum power of solar panels irradiated with the Atacama Desert spectrum exceeds the results obtained with the AM1.5 standard spectrum by 10%. When graphene is the transparent conducting oxide, quantum efficiency has a higher value in the ultraviolet range, which shows that it may be convenient to use graphene-based solar cells in places where ultraviolet intensity is high.
An Interactive Learning Network That Maintains Sentiment Consistency in End-to-End Aspect-Based Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Chen Musheng , Hua Qingrong , Mao Yaojun , Wu Junhua
Published: August 2023

Most of the aspect-based sentiment analysis research completes the two subtasks (aspect terms extraction and aspect sentiment classification) separately, and it cannot see the full picture and actual effect of the complete aspect-based sentiment analysis. The purpose of end-to-end aspect-based sentiment analysis is to complete the two subtasks of aspect terms extraction and aspect sentiment classification at the same time, and the current research in this area focuses on the connection between the two subtasks and uses the connection between them to construct the model. However, they rarely pay attention to the connection between different aspects and ignore the sentiment inconsistency within the aspects caused by the end-to-end model. Therefore, we propose an interactive learning network to maintain sentiment consistency, first using the multi-head attention mechanism to achieve the interaction between aspects and subtasks and then using the gate mechanism to design an auxiliary module to maintain sentiment consistency within aspect items. The experimental results on the datasets Laptop14, Restaurant14, and Twitter showed that, compared with the optimal benchmark method, the F1 values of the proposed method increased by 0.4%, 1.21%, and 5.22%, respectively. This indicates that the proposed method can effectively consider the relationships between aspect items and maintain emotional consistency within the aspect items.
Oxidation Behaviour of Refractory (HfCo)100−x(NbMo)x High-Entropy Alloys with a bcc+B2 Structure
Authors: Yurchenko Nikita , Panina Evgeniya , Zherebtsov Sergey , Stepanov Nikita
Published: August 2023

Herein, the oxidation behaviour of refractory (HfCo)100−x(NbMo)x (x = 0; 10; 25; 40; 75; 100 (at.%)) high-entropy alloys with a bcc+B2 structure subjected to cyclic oxidation at 1000 °C was studied. The single-phase B2-ordered HfCo alloy demonstrated the best spallation resistance and retained a pristine form after 100 h. The oxidation kinetics of the HfCo alloy was near-parabolic, accompanied by the formation of external HfO2 or CoO layers after 1 or 100 h, respectively. Additions of (NbMo)x deteriorated the spallation resistance (x ≤ 25 at.%) or led to complete disintegration (x > 25 at.%). Among the (NbMo)-containing alloys, the (HfCo)90(NbMo)10 alloy with the dual-phase bcc+B2 structure showed the most promising oxidation resistance. This alloy withstood cyclic oxidation up to 15 h with a mass gain close to the HfCo alloy and survived 100 h without changes in geometry of the specimen. Unlike the HfCo alloy, in the (HfCo)90(NbMo)10 alloy, the external CoO layer was found already after 1 h. The effect of chemical and phase compositions on the formation of certain oxides was discussed. Comparison with the other refractory high-entropy alloys was also presented.
Design and Optimization of the Bi-Directional U-Ribbed Stiffening Plate–Concrete Composite Bridge Deck Structure
Authors: Wei Dingchao , Liao Jingwen , Liu Jianjun , Gao Yingjie , Huang Fanglin
Published: August 2023

The steel–concrete composite structure is widely used in civil engineering for large-span bridges. Orthotropic steel bridge decks (OSDs) have particularly gained popularity due to their excellent mechanical performance. To address cracking issues in OSDs and concrete in negative moment regions, a novel bi-directional U-ribbed stiffening plate (BUSP)–concrete composite bridge deck is proposed. By using finite element analysis, the mechanical performance is evaluated based on maximum tensile stress and vertical displacement of concrete overlays. Results show that the BUSP–concrete deck outperformed conventional flat decks. It is also found that increasing the height, thickness, and opening width of U-ribs reduced tensile stress and maximum displacement. Adjusting height had the most significant effect on displacement while opening width affected tensile stress the most. Considering material usage, optimizing height is proved to be more effective than adjusting thickness and opening width. Decreasing spacing parameters improved performance but added complexity and reduced construction convenience. These findings will guide the design and optimization of steel–concrete composite bridge deck structures.
Creep Instability Mechanism and Control Technology of Soft Coal Roadways Based on Fracture Evolution Law
Authors: Wu Fengfeng , Gu Haoyuan , Zhang Jian , Liu Changyou , Chang Xingmin , Wei Mintao , Jiang Yufei , Wang Ping , Yang Peiju , Liu Huaidong , Yu Xin , Zhang Hanrui , Lv Yuxiang , Chu Yuan , Liu Shibao , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: August 2023

To address the challenging issues of large deformation, control difficulties, and susceptibility to failure in the support structure of soft coal roadways, this study utilizes the CVISC block creep model in UDEC software. The model incorporates Coulomb slip without cohesive contact to simulate the characteristics of soft coal, such as its loose, fragile, and small-block nature. Additionally, a soft coal nonlinear discrete element creep model is developed to investigate the creep characteristics of soft coal under triaxial compression, with the aim of revealing the underlying creep destabilization mechanism in soft coal tunnels. Based on the research findings, a primary, strong active support technology is proposed. This approach involves the use of high-preload, high-strength anchor rods and anchor cables, as well as the implementation of steel mesh and plastic woven mesh to enhance surface protection. The study highlights that: (1) The shear cracks inside the coal body of the soft coal specimen transform into tensile cracks under external force, leading to an increase in the number of tensile cracks. This is an important symbol of accelerated creep in soft coal. Improvement in peripheral pressure helps inhibit the generation of tensile cracks inside the specimen. (2) The rapid development of creep and inter-particle tensile fissures within the coal body particles themselves, along with the change in stress state after the excavation of the roadway, are the main reasons for the overall creep damage of the roadway. (3) The support force in the early stage of shed cable support is small, which cannot inhibit the accelerated development of tensile fissures. This leads to continuous deformation of the roadway, resulting in the failure of the support structure in the later stage and aggravated roadway damage. (4) The new support technology helps control surface deformation by enhancing the strength of the roadway protection surface. This suppresses the development speed and number of tensile fissures during roadway deformation, improves the starting strength of the roadway for accelerated creep, and enables effective control of the overall deformation of the soft coal roadway. Thus, the effectiveness of roadway support is remarkable.
Injury Prevention for B-Boys and B-Girls in Breaking via Time-Motion Analysis
Authors: Pérez-Portela Alberto , Paramés-González Adrián , Prieto-Lage Iván , Argibay-González Juan Carlos , Reguera-López-de-la-Osa Xoana , Gutiérrez-Santiago Alfonso
Published: August 2023

Time-motion analysis has been used to quantify the external load of competition and as a strategy to prevent injuries. The objectives of this study were to determine the external load of competition in breaking, using time-motion analysis, and to establish a battle model to help determine training load and prevent injuries. Using observational methodology, we analysed all the battles of 56 b-boys and 56 b-girls who participated in the Red Bull BC One from 2018 to 2021 (n = 112). To obtain the results we used different analysis techniques. The significance level established was ρ ≤ 0.05. The results show that the time and sequence values have increased in recent years. The total battle time reaches 195 s for bboys and 170 s for bgirls. Men show greater strength and explosiveness, with higher values in total time and sequentiality, using more powermove. Women have higher split time values, showing greater endurance in the movements and using more footwork. The first two rounds have the longest duration for both sexes and the most used categories are also the most injurious in this discipline. Women use less powermove than men and have a lower injury rate. With these results, breaking professionals will be able to elaborate adequate training for their athletes. We conclude that there are significant differences between sexes when it comes to dancing, diminishing as the tournament progresses. We propose a model of temporal and sequential structure individualised by sex. The most damaging elements of breaking (powermove and footwork) should be taken into account when analysing the results and preparing the athletes.
NoisenseDB: An Urban Sound Event Database to Develop Neural Classification Systems for Noise-Monitoring Applications
Authors: Diez Itxasne , Saratxaga Ibon , Salegi Unai , Navas Eva , Hernaez Inma
Published: August 2023

The use of continuous monitoring systems to control aspects such as noise pollution has grown in recent years. The commercial monitoring systems used to date only provide information on noise levels but do not identify the noise sources that generate them. The identification of noise sources is an important aspect in order to apply corrective measures to mitigate the noise levels. In this sense, new technological advances like machine listening can enable the addition of other capabilities to sound monitoring systems such as the detection and classification of noise sources. Despite the increasing development of these systems, researchers have to face some shortcomings. The most frequent ones are on the one hand, the lack of data recorded in real environments and on the other hand, the need for automatic labelling of large volumes of data collected by working monitoring systems. In order to address these needs, in this paper, we present our own sound database recorded in an urban environment. Some baseline results for the database are provided using two original convolutional neural network based sound events classification systems. Additionally, a state of the art transformer-based audio classification system (AST) has been applied to obtain some baseline results. Furthermore, the database has been used for evaluating a semi-supervised strategy to train a classifier for automatic labelling that can be refined by human labellers afterwards.
Phenolic Extract from Olive Leaves as a Promising Endotherapeutic Treatment against Xylella fastidiosa in Naturally Infected Olea europaea (var. europaea) Trees
Authors: Vizzarri Veronica , Ienco Annamaria , Benincasa Cinzia , Perri Enzo , Pucci Nicoletta , Cesari Erica , Novellis Carmine , Rizzo Pierluigi , Pellegrino Massimiliano , Zaffina Francesco , Lombardo Luca
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Since 2013, the pathogenic bacterium Xylella fastidiosa has been severely affecting olive production in Apulia, Italy, with consequences for the economy, local culture, landscape and biodiversity. The production of a phenolic extract from fresh olive leaves was employed for endotherapeutic injection into naturally infected olive trees by Xylella fastidiosa in Apulia region, Italy. (2) Methods: The effectiveness of the extract was tested in vitro and in planta in comparison with analogous treatments based on garlic powder and potassium phosphite. (3) Results: The uptake of phenolic compounds from olive leaves through a trunk injection system device resulted in a statistically significant increase in leaf area index and leaf area density, as well as in the growth of newly formed healthy shoots. Plant growth-promoting effects were also observed for potassium phosphite. Moreover, the bacteriostatic activities of the phenolic extract and of the garlic-powder-based solution have been demonstrated in in vitro tests. (4) Conclusions: The results obtained and the contained costs of extraction make the endotherapeutic treatment with phenolic compounds a promising strategy for controlling X fastidiosa to be tested on a larger scale, although the experiments conducted in this study proved not to be suitable for centenary trees.
Proposal for the Preparation of New Building Standards in Poland to Protect against Earthquakes in the Next 50 Years
Authors: Lewandowski Krzysztof
Published: August 2023

This article aims to implement new building standards for residential and industrial construction in Poland to protect against earthquakes. For more than 20 years, Europe has experienced an increasing number of earthquakes. Failure to prepare residential and industrial buildings for such an event can result in extensive damage, death, and injury. It is therefore reasonable to ask what losses Poland could suffer after even a single strong earthquake. An estimate of the losses after such an event is presented. It is crucial for many buildings and mines in Poland. It is also important to prepare the population for such an event. In addition, it is also crucial for many Central European countries, as governments have not received training on how to behave during an earthquake. The lack of such training could cause panic during such an event. Poland is rich in natural resources, with many coal and lignite mines. A strong earthquake can threaten these as well as residential, public, industrial, and other buildings. This article provides an overview of earthquake events in Europe in relation to events worldwide and proposes solutions based on the experience of other countries. Here is a proposal to prepare new standards for buildings in Poland for protection against earthquakes in the next 50 years, based on the experience of other countries.
Spatial Evolution and Governance Transformation of Cross-Border Regions in Institutional Transition: A Case Study of the Tokyo Bay
Authors: Yang Jinkun , Ma Haitao , Chen Le
Published: August 2023

In the process of globalization, the transformation of production methods has triggered a restructuring of scales, resulting in the emergence of a new spatial phenomenon known as cross-border regions. Previous studies have focused on the coordination of cross-border regions, often concentrating solely on either spatial or governance aspects, and lacking a comprehensive exploration of the underlying mechanisms linking space and governance. This study examines the evolution of cross-border governance using the Tokyo Bay Area as a case study, taking into account the dual characteristics of space and governance. The findings of this research indicate a certain correlation between spatial evolution and governance mechanisms during different stages of development in the Tokyo Bay Area. Over time, the spatial configuration of the port cluster has undergone significant changes, while the governance mechanisms of the cross-border region have transitioned from informal to formal approaches. Additionally, the study summarizes both diachronic and synchronic characteristics, confirming the effectiveness of the space governance and providing an analysis of its underlying mechanisms. These findings provide valuable insights for promoting the modernization of national governance systems and governance capabilities.