bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prickly Sida (Sida spinosa L.) and Cotton Response to Pre- and Early Post-Emergence Herbicides
Authors: Kati Vaya , Gitsopoulos Thomas , Vasilakoglou Ioannis , Vlachos Christos , Mylonas Philippos , Menexes George
Published: September 2023

Prickly sida is a troublesome annual weed native to the USA. It was introduced in Greece over two decades ago and has since been infesting cotton crops, where it proved difficult to control. A two-year field study (2021–2022) was conducted in a cotton field (Karditsa, central Greece) heavily infested with prickly sida to evaluate the efficacy of nine treatments against this weed, using pre-emergence (PRE) and early post-emergence (EPOST) herbicides applied at the field rate. At 8 weeks after treatment, prickly sida control was over 90% with pyrithiobac PRE (68.9 g ai ha−1) alone or in mixture with s-metolachlor (960 g ai ha−1) or with isoxaben (150 g ai ha−1) and with the application of pyrithiobac + s-metolachlor PRE (34.5 + 960 g ai ha−1) followed by pyrithiobac EPOST (34.5 g ai ha−1). Flurochloridone + fluometuron PRE (375 + 2000 g ai ha−1), flumioxazin + s-metolachlor PRE (50 + 960 g ai ha−1), or pendimethalin + terbuthylazine PRE (1500 + 750 g ai ha−1) controlled prickly sida by 89–93% in 2021 and 82–90% in 2022. Pyrithiobac EPOST alone or in mixture with trifloxysulfuron did not adequately control prickly sida. Yield was significantly lower in the weedy check and EPOST compared with the PRE treatments. None of the herbicides caused any visual injury to the crop or any reduction in cotton density. Our results can help in the successful management of prickly sida in non-transgenic cotton to maximize cotton yield and quality.
Crop Mapping and Spatio–Temporal Analysis in Valley Areas Using Object-Oriented Machine Learning Methods Combined with Feature Optimization
Authors: Fu Xiaoli , Zhou Wenzuo , Zhou Xinyao , Hu Yichen
Published: September 2023

Timely and accurate acquisition of crop planting areas and spatial distribution are deemed essential for grasping food configurations and guiding agricultural production. Despite the increasing research on crop mapping and changes with the development of remote sensing technology, most studies have focused on large-scale regions, with limited research being conducted in fragmented and ecologically vulnerable valley areas. To this end, this study utilized Landsat ETM+/OLI images as the data source to extract additional features, including vegetation index, terrain, and texture. We employed the Random Forest Recursive Feature Elimination (RF_RFE) algorithm for feature selection and evaluated the effectiveness of three machine learning algorithms—Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Rotation Forest (ROF)—for crop extraction. Then, based on the optimal classifiers, the main crops in the Huangshui basin for the years of 2002, 2014, and 2022 were extracted. Finally, the transfer matrix, the gravity center model, and the Standard Deviation Ellipse (SDE) model were used to analyze the spatio—temporal changes of crops over the past 20 years in the Huangshui basin. The results showed that the spectral, vegetation index, and terrain features played a crucial role in crop extraction. Comparing the performance of the classifiers, the ROF algorithm displayed superior effectiveness in crop identification. The overall accuracy of crop extraction was above 86.97%, and the kappa coefficient was above 0.824. Notably, between 2002 and 2022, significant shifts in crop distribution within the Huangshui basin were observed. The highland barley experienced a net increase in planting area at a rate of 8.34 km2/year, while the spring wheat and oilseed rape demonstrated net decreases at rates of 16.02 km2/year and 14.28 km2/year, respectively. Furthermore, the study revealed that highland barley exhibited the most substantial movement, primarily expanding towards the southeast direction.
Energy Sorghum Removal of Soil Cadmium in Chinese Subtropical Farmland: Effects of Variety and Cropping System
Authors: Wang Shuai , Li Bo , Zhu Hanhua , Liao Wenjuan , Wu Cong , Zhang Quan , Tang Kaizhao , Cui Haojie
Published: September 2023

Planting energy sorghum to remove soil cadmium (Cd) has been selected as an effective phytoremediation method in subtropical farmland in China in recent years. Nevertheless, the effects of energy sorghum species and cropping systems on Cd removal by energy sorghum are still not fully understood. In the present work, biomass sorghum (BS) and sweet sorghum (SS) were planted for screening varieties and comparing the applicability of cropping systems to remove Cd from contaminated soils through batch field experiments. The results indicated that BS had a higher plant height (4.70–75.63%), lower water content in the shoot (4.78–13.49%), greater dry biomass yield (13.21–125.16%), and stronger Cd removal (average 45.71%) compared with SS. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the agronomic traits and Cd accumulation of energy sorghums with genetic regulation of varieties. Pearson correlation coefficients analysis and the structural equation model (SEM) showed that plant height was the crucial agronomic parameter affecting the dry biomass yield, and Cd concentration in the stem was the key factor for evaluating the Cd extraction ability of energy sorghums, which indirectly determined the removal of Cd by energy sorghum together. Furthermore, the regeneration cropping system was the most suitable because of the adaptation to climatic conditions of energy sorghums in subtropical regions of China, and its Cd removal efficiency increased by more than 49% compared with double cropping and single cropping systems, respectively. Our study provides valuable information for the phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soil in Chinese subtropical farmland.
Effects of Rumen-Protected Methionine Supplementation on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestion, Nitrogen Utilisation and Plasma Amino Acid Profiles of Liaoning Cashmere Goats
Authors: Wang Wennan , Ye Lisha , Dou Xingtang , Liu Haiying , Han Di
Published: September 2023

This study determined the effects of rumen-protected methionine (RPM) supplementation on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen (N) utilisation and plasma amino acid profiles of Liaoning cashmere goats during cashmere fibre growth. Twenty-four yearling male cashmere goats (body weight: 35.41 ± 1.13 kg) were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments: a corn–soybean meal basal diet deficient in methionine (negative control, NC) and a basal diet supplemented with 1, 2 and 3 g/kg of RPM. The RPM supplementation quadratically increased the average daily gain (ADG) and decreased the feed to gain ratio (p = 0.001) without affecting the final body weight and dry matter intake. In particular, compared to NC, 2 g/kg RPM supplementation increased the ADG by 35 g/d (p < 0.001) and resulted in the lowest feed to gain ratio (p < 0.001). RPM increased the apparent total tract digestibility of N and decreased the faecal N levels, both in a linear fashion (p = 0.005). Urinary N levels did not have an effect, but the N retention levels increased linearly with PRM (p = 0.032). Moreover, the RPM decreased the plasma urea N levels (p < 0.001) and increased the plasma Met levels quadratically (p < 0.001). In conclusion, RPM supplementation in the diet of cashmere goats can enhance the utilisation of N and improve ADG during the cashmere fibre growing period, and 2 g/kg of RPM in the diet is suggested.
The Effect of Maternal Probiotic or Synbiotic Supplementation on Sow and Offspring Gastrointestinal Microbiota, Health, and Performance
Authors: Kiernan Dillon P. , O’Doherty John V. , Sweeney Torres
Published: September 2023

The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens has prompted the reduction in antibiotic and antimicrobial use in commercial pig production. This has led to increased research efforts to identify alternative dietary interventions to support the health and development of the pig. The crucial role of the GIT microbiota in animal health and performance is becoming increasingly evident. Hence, promoting an improved GIT microbiota, particularly the pioneer microbiota in the young pig, is a fundamental focus. Recent research has indicated that the sow’s GIT microbiota is a significant contributor to the development of the offspring’s microbiota. Thus, dietary manipulation of the sow’s microbiota with probiotics or synbiotics, before farrowing and during lactation, is a compelling area of exploration. This review aims to identify the potential health benefits of maternal probiotic or synbiotic supplementation to both the sow and her offspring and to explore their possible modes of action. Finally, the results of maternal sow probiotic and synbiotic supplementation studies are collated and summarized. Maternal probiotic or synbiotic supplementation offers an effective strategy to modulate the sow’s microbiota and thereby enhance the formation of a health-promoting pioneer microbiota in the offspring. In addition, this strategy can potentially reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the sow and her offspring, enhance the immune potential of the milk, the immune system development in the offspring, and the sow’s feed intake during lactation. Although many studies have used probiotics in the maternal sow diet, the most effective probiotic or probiotic blends remain unclear. To this extent, further direct comparative investigations using different probiotics are warranted to advance the current understanding in this area. Moreover, the number of investigations supplementing synbiotics in the maternal sow diet is limited and is an area where further exploration is warranted.
Crossing the Old Local Breed Deutsches Lachshuhn with the Layer Breed White Rock: Effects on Laying Performance of the Females and Fattening Performance of the Males
Authors: Werner Daniela , Bussemas Ralf , Baldinger Lisa
Published: September 2023

We tested the novel cross of the old local breed Deutsches Lachshuhn and the layer breed White Rock, as well as purebred Deutsches Lachshuhn, for their suitability as dual-purpose chickens under 100% organic husbandry conditions, and compared their performance and welfare with the two dual-purpose crosses New Hampshire × Bresse and Bresse × White Rock, which are already established in Germany. Chicks were reared in mixed-sex groups until slaughter of the males at 15 or 18 weeks of life. Data on laying performance and animal welfare were recorded until the hens’ 72nd week of life. Laying performance of Deutsches Lachshuhn × White Rock was almost twice as high as that in purebred hens, while fattening performance of the males did not differ. Deutsches Lachshuhn × White Rock, New Hampshire × Bresse and Bresse × White Rock realized a balanced performance profile of 242–250 eggs per hen alive and a final live weight of the males of 2924–3105 g after 18 weeks of rearing. The efficiency of a pair of chickens (one male and one female) was very similar for the crosses (3.69–3.77 kg feed kg−1 marketable product), while purebred Deutsches Lachshuhn was less efficient (6.35 kg feed kg−1 marketable product). Crossing the breed Deutsches Lachshuhn with a layer breed therefore improved laying performance and overall efficiency of the birds compared to purebred Deutsches Lachshuhn.
Determination of Haematological Reference Values for Tucúquere (Bubo magellanicus) Habiting in Central Chile
Authors: Jimenez-Cortes Alejandro , Boassi Sergio , Cañon-Jones Hernan
Published: September 2023

Tucuquere (Bubo magellanicus) is an owl inhabiting Chile, which is classified as a species of agricultural interest, but its current conservation status is not well defined. The determination of previously unknown haematological ranges via laboratory techniques for species analysis is of great importance in the search for diagnoses in clinical veterinary work. Thirty-three samples from healthy tucuquere were obtained from zoos and rehabilitation centres in central Chile and analysed using standard laboratory techniques to obtain reference values that were determined according to the standard recommendations for animal species. The mean, standard deviation, maximum, and minimum reference limits were calculated at 95% and 97.5% error. These results differ from those of other studies, especially in terms of the white blood cells because most of the values were lower than those described for the species. These results could be explained by the habitat and location from which the samples were taken, and they corroborate the need to obtain reference values for different geographical areas. This study provides useful haematological values for use in conservation medicine and zoos and highlights the importance of carrying out these studies in different geographical areas for species of ecological interest.
Molecular Cloning, Tissue Distribution, and Pharmacological Characterization of GPR84 in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon Idella)
Authors: Li Yang , Song Wei-Jia , Yi Shao-Kui , Yu Hui-Xia , Mo Hao-Lin , Yao Ming-Xing , Tao Ya-Xiong , Wang Li-Xin
Published: September 2023

The G-protein-coupled receptor GPR84, activated by medium-chain fatty acids, primarily expressed in macrophages and microglia, is involved in inflammatory responses and retinal development in mammals and amphibians. However, our understanding of its structure, function, tissue expression, and signaling pathways in fish is limited. In this study, we cloned and characterized the coding sequence of GPR84 (ciGPR84) in grass carp. A phylogenetic analysis revealed its close relationship with bony fishes. High expression levels of GPR84 were observed in the liver and spleen. The transfection of HEK293T cells with ciGPR84 demonstrated its responsiveness to medium-chain fatty acids and diindolylmethane (DIM). Capric acid, undecanoic acid, and lauric acid activated ERK and inhibited cAMP signaling. Lauric acid showed the highest efficiency in activating the ERK pathway, while capric acid was the most effective in inhibiting cAMP signaling. Notably, DIM did not activate GPR84 in grass carp, unlike in mammals. These findings provide valuable insights for mitigating chronic inflammation in grass carp farming and warrant further exploration of the role of medium-chain fatty acids in inflammation regulation in this species.
Hymenoptera Venom Immunotherapy in Dogs: Safety and Clinical Efficacy
Authors: Rostaher Ana , Fischer Nina Maria , Vigani Alessio , Steblaj Barbara , Martini Franco , Brem Salina , Favrot Claude , Kosnik Mitja
Published: September 2023

Hymenoptera allergens are the main triggers for anaphylaxis in susceptible dogs and humans. Hymenoptera venom specific immunotherapy (VIT), the only disease-modifying treatment, has the potential to prevent future life-threatening reactions in human patients. Prospective clinical data on VIT efficacy in dogs are currently lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to show that VIT is not only safe but also efficacious in preventing anaphylaxis in dogs allergic to Hymenoptera. This uncontrolled prospective clinical trial included 10 client-owned dogs with a history of anaphylaxis following repeated Hymenoptera stings. The sensitization to bee and wasp allergens was demonstrated by intradermal testing (IDT) and allergen-specific IgE serology. For VIT induction (induction phase), dogs received a shortened rush immunotherapy protocol with aqueous allergens, which was then followed by monthly injections of 100 µg of alum-precipitated allergen (maintenance phase). VIT efficacy was determined by observing patients’ clinical reactions to re-stings. No systemic adverse events were seen during the induction and maintenance phases. From the seven re-stung dogs, only one developed a mild angioedema at the site of the sting; the remaining dogs were asymptomatic. These results show that VIT represents a safe and effective treatment option for Hymenoptera-allergic dogs.
Irregular Findings on Teatcups in Milking Parlours in Sheep and Goat Farms and Potential Predictors
Authors: Michael Charalambia K. , Lianou Daphne T. , Mavrogianni Vasia S. , Petinaki Efthymia , Fthenakis George C.
Published: September 2023

The objectives of the present study were as follows: (a) to describe the prevalence of irregular findings on teatcups in milking parlours with dairy sheep and goats after the post-milking cleaning procedures had been completed, (b) to associate staphylococcal isolation from teatcups with the presence with irregular findings and (c) to identify predictors of the presence of irregular findings on teatcups. The teatcups in the milking parlour of 255 sheep and 66 goat farms were macroscopically evaluated for the presence of irregular findings immediately after the completion of cleaning of the parlour. In total, 1115 and 303 teatcups, respectively, were assessed. A detailed interview with the farmer served to record the characteristics of the milking parlour and obtain information about husbandry and health management variables in the farm. Teatcups with macroscopically evident irregular findings were observed in 150 milking parlours (46.7%). Overall, 593 teatcups (41.8%) were found with macroscopically evident irregular findings. Dirt, milk residues and cracks or tears were recorded in the teatcups of 90.0%, 36.0% and 12.7% of parlours with irregular findings. Staphylococci were more frequently isolated from teatcups with irregular findings than from undamaged ones: from 37.4% (222/593) versus 12.8% (106/825). They were more frequently isolated from teatcups with milk residues (39.4%) and teatcups with dirt (39.0%). Via multivariable analysis, the following three variables emerged as significant predictors of presence of teatcups with irregular findings: the daily number of milking sessions, month into the lactation period at sampling and number of available milking units per animal position. The study provides, for the first time internationally, an appraisal of the frequency of problematic teatcups in the milking parlours of small ruminant farms. The analysis of predictors has provided a focus for specific management aspects, where interventions need to be performed, in order to improve the situation in farms with problems. The consequent increased staphylococcal burden on teatcups with irregular findings points to the increased risk of intramammary infections in such cases.
Reporting of 3Rs Approaches in Preclinical Animal Experimental Studies—A Nationwide Study
Authors: Kousholt Birgitte S. , Præstegaard Kirstine F. , Stone Jennifer C. , Thomsen Anders F. , Johansen Thea T. , Ritskes-Hoitinga Merel , Wegener Gregers
Published: September 2023

The 3Rs aim to refine animal welfare, reduce animal numbers, and replace animal experiments. Investigations disclose that researchers are positive towards 3Rs recommendations from peers. Communication of 3Rs approaches via primary preclinical animal experimental literature may become a fast-forward extension to learn relevant 3Rs approaches if such are reported. This study investigates 3Rs-reporting in peer-reviewed preclinical animal research with at least one author affiliated to a Danish university. Using a systematic search and random sampling, we included 500 studies from 2009 and 2018. Reporting was low and improvement over time limited. A word search for 3R retrieved zero results in 2009 and 3.2% in 2018. Reporting on 3Rs-related sentences increased from 6.4% in 2009 to 18.4% in 2018, “reduction” increased from 2.4% to 8.0%, and “refinement” from 5.2% to 14.4%. Replacement was not reported. Reporting of the methodology was missing. For “reduction”, methodology was mentioned in one study in 2009 and 11 studies in 2018, and for “refinement” in 9 and 21, respectively. Twenty-one studies stated compliance with ARRIVE-guidelines or similar without disclosure of details. Reporting of 3Rs approaches in preclinical publications is currently insufficient to guide researchers. Other strategies, e.g., education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and 3Rs funding initiatives, are needed.
Yak-Derived CXCL14 Activates the Pro-Inflammatory Response of Macrophages and Inhibits the Proliferation and Migration of HepG2
Authors: Li Biao , Li Juan , Wang Li , Wei Yong , Luo Xiaolin , Guan Jiuqiang , Zhang Xiangfei
Published: September 2023

CXCL14 (C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 14) is an important chemokine involved in infection and immunity and plays an important role in a variety of immune-related diseases. The 446 bp cDNA sequence of the CXCL14 gene in yaks was obtained. Additionally, the prokaryotic expression vector of the CXCL14 protein with a molecular weight of 27 kDa was successfully constructed and expressed. The proliferation activities and migration abilities of spleen macrophages were significantly inhibited after treatment with the CXCL14 protein at different concentrations (1, 10 and 20 μg/mL) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL6), interleukin 8 (IL8) and interferon-α (TNF-α) were significantly increased (p < 0.05), but the expression of anti-inflammatory factor interleukin 10 (IL10) was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The contents of inflammatory factors in the supernatant of cells were detected using ELISA, and it was also found that the contents of TNF-α, IL6 and cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (COX2) were significantly increased under different CXCL14 protein concentrations (p < 0.05). Finally, the exogenous addition of CXCL14 inhibited the activity, clonal formation and migration of hepatoma cells (HepG2). Additionally, after HepG2 cells were treated with 20 μg/mL CXCL14 protein for 12 h, 24 h and 36 h, the expression levels of BCL2 homologous antagonist/killer (BAK) and the BCL2-associated X apoptosis regulator (BAX) were increased to varying degrees, while the expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 subunit alpha (HIF1A), the mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase (mTOR) and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) genes decreased compared to the control group. In conclusion, the CXCL14 protein can inhibit the proliferation and migration of HepG2 cells by inducing the expression of macrophage pro-inflammatory factors and activating apoptosis-related genes to exert innate immunity. These results are helpful to further study the function of the CXCL14 protein and provide research data for the innate immune mechanism of yaks under harsh plateau environments.
Feeding Strategy to Use Beef Tallow and Modify Farmed Tiger Puffer Fatty Acid Composition
Authors: Zhang Feiran , Li Lin , Meng Xiaoxue , Liu Jian , Cui Xishuai , Ma Qiang , Wei Yuliang , Liang Mengqing , Xu Houguo , Rombenso Artur
Published: September 2023

A 12-week feeding experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing fish oil (FO) with beef tallow (BT) on the fatty acid composition of farmed tiger puffer (Takifugu rubripes). Two replacement strategies were used: a standard Graded Dietary Replacement of FO with BT (GDR strategy) and Alternate Feeding between FO- and BT-based Diets (AFD strategy). The positive and negative control diets were formulated with 6% FO (FO-C group) or BT (BT-C group) as the sole added lipid source. In the GDR strategy, three experimental diets were formulated, with 25, 50 and 75% of the added FO in the FO-C diet replaced with BT, named 25BT, 50BT and 75BT, respectively. In the AFD strategy, alternated feeding patterns between the FO-C and BT-C diet—namely, 1, 2 and 3 weeks with BT-C followed by 1 week feeding with FO-C (1BT-1FO, 2BT-1FO and 3BT-1FO, respectively)—were applied. Each diet or feeding strategy was assigned to triplicate tanks. The results showed that dietary BT inclusion reduced the contents of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) in both the muscle and liver (edible tissues for this species) of the experimental fish, and the liver displayed a more drastic decrease than the muscle. The LC-PUFA content linearly decreased with the decreasing dietary FO levels in the GDR strategy. However, in the AFD strategy, a linear relationship was not observed between the LC-PUFA content and the FO feeding duration. The 3BT-1FO treatment resulted in higher LC-PUFA content than 2BT-1FO. When comparing the two strategies with the same final FO administration level—namely, 50BT vs. 1BT-1FO, and in particular, 75BT vs. 3BT-1FO—the AFD strategy resulted in higher LC-PUFA contents in both the muscle and liver than the GDR strategy. In conclusion, when FO was replaced with BT in the diets, alternate feeding between FO- and BT-based diets resulted in a higher LC-PUFA content than the standard direct replacement. Three weeks of feeding with BT-C followed by one week of feeding with FO-C appeared to be a good alternate feeding pattern. This study provided a promising strategy of FO-sparing in fish farming when the LC-PUFA contents were maintained as high as possible.
Preclinical Evaluation of Nitroxide-Functionalised Ciprofloxacin as a Novel Antibiofilm Drug Hybrid for Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Hawas Sophia , Qin Jilong , Wiedbrauk Sandra , Fairfull-Smith Kathryn , Totsika Makrina
Published: September 2023

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most common bacterial infection with high recurrence rates and can involve biofilm formation on patient catheters. Biofilms are inherently tolerant to antimicrobials, making them difficult to eradicate. Many antibiofilm agents alone do not have bactericidal activity; therefore, linking them to antibiotics is a promising antibiofilm strategy. However, many of these hybrid agents have not been tested in relevant preclinical settings, limiting their potential for clinical translation. Here, we evaluate a ciprofloxacin di-nitroxide hybrid (CDN11), previously reported to have antibiofilm activity against uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strain UTI89 in vitro, as a potential UTI therapeutic using multiple preclinical models that reflect various aspects of UTI pathogenesis. We report improved in vitro activity over the parent drug ciprofloxacin against mature UTI89 biofilms formed inside polyethylene catheters. In bladder cell monolayers infected with UTI89, treatment with CDN11 afforded significant reduction in bacterial titers, including intracellular UPEC. Infected mouse bladders containing biofilm-like intracellular reservoirs of UPEC UTI89 showed decreased bacterial loads after ex vivo bladder treatment with CDN11. Activity for CDN11 was reported across different models of UTI, showcasing nitroxide–antibiotic hybridization as a promising antibiofilm approach. The pipeline we described here could be readily used in testing other new therapeutic compounds, fast-tracking the development of novel antibiofilm therapeutics.
Do Dietary Supplements Affect Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Antioxidant Status in Adults with Hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s Disease?—A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials
Authors: Kubiak Katarzyna , Szmidt Maria Karolina , Kaluza Joanna , Zylka Agnieszka , Sicinska Ewa
Published: September 2023

This systematic review aims to summarise the results of controlled trials on dietary supplements (DS) usage and inflammation, oxidative stress, antioxidant status, and thyroid parameter improvement in hypothyroidism (HT)/Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (AIT) patients. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (no. CRD42022365149). A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases resulted in the identification of nineteen randomised controlled trials and three non-randomised studies for the review; three studies examined the effect of supplementation with vitamin D, twelve studies—with selenium, and seven studies—with other DS. Based on very limited evidence, the lack of influence of vitamin D supplementation on inflammatory parameters was found, while no studies have examined oxidative stress and antioxidant status parameters, and only one provided results for a single thyroid parameter after an intervention. Some evidence was found proving that selenium supplementation may decrease inflammation and improve thyroid parameters, but reaching a conclusion about its influence on oxidative stress and antioxidant status is not possible because of the insufficient number of studies. Additionally, due to examining other DS (e.g., multicomponent, Nigella sativa, and genistein) only in single studies, conclusions cannot be drawn. Further long-term, high-quality randomised controlled trials are necessary to better understand the influence of DS on inflammation, oxidative stress, and antioxidant status, as well as their potential to improve thyroid gland function in HT/AIT patients.
The Effects of Flavonol and Flavone Glucuronides from Potentilla chinensis Leaves on TNF-α-Exposed Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Choi Yea Jung , Lee So Young , Son So-Ri , Park Jun Yeon , Jang Dae Sik , Lee Sullim
Published: September 2023

Skin aging is a complex biological process influenced by a variety of factors, including UV radiation. UV radiation accelerates collagen degradation via the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cytokines, including TNF-α. In a prior investigation, the inhibitory properties of flavonol and flavone glucuronides derived from Potentilla chinensis on TNF-α-induced ROS and MMP-1 production were explored. Consequently, we verified the skin-protective effects of these flavonol and flavone glucuronides, including potentilloside A, from P. chinensis, and conducted a structure–activity relationship analysis as part of our ongoing research. We investigated the protective effects of the extract and its 11 isolates on TNF-α-stimulated normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Ten flavonol and flavone glucuronides significantly inhibited ROS generation (except for 7) and suppressed MMP-1 secretion, except for 2. In contrast, six isolates (1, 5, 6, 11, 9, 10, and 11) showed a significant reverse effect on COLIA1 secretion. Comparing the three experimental results of each isolate, potentilloside A (1) showed the most potent skin cell-protective effect among the isolates. Evaluation of the signaling pathway of potentilloside A in TNF-α-stimulated NHDF revealed that potentilloside A inhibits the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and c-Jun. Taken together, these results suggest that compounds isolated from P. chinensis, especially potentilloside A, can be used to inhibit skin damage, including aging.
Misperception of Visual Verticality Measured with a Virtual Reality Device in Patients with Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lomas-Vega Rafael , Ogáyar-Anguita Carlos Javier , Segura-Sánchez Rafael J. , Rueda-Ruiz Antonio Jesús , Osuna-Pérez María Catalina , Peinado-Rubia Ana Belén
Published: September 2023

The objective of this study was to analyze the perception of visual verticality (VV) in subjects with Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) and to correlate this with the symptoms of the disease and balance capacity. A cross-sectional study including 54 patients (51 female) was conducted. The evaluation of visual verticality was carried out with a virtual reality device by calculating the Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of degrees deviation in two tests: the Subjective Visual Vertical (SVV) test for the contribution of the vestibular system to the perception of verticality and the Rod and Frame test (RFT) for the contribution of the visual system. In total, 16 subjects (29.6%) presented good VV perception, 6 subjects (11.1%) presented an exclusive alteration of the SVV test, 19 subjects (35.2%) presented an exclusive alteration of the RFT and 13 subjects (24.1%) showed alteration in the two tests. The MAE in the SVV test showed medium correlations with several variables such as the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) (Rho = 0.399, p = 0.003), the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) (Rho = 0.417, p = 0.002), the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) (Rho = 0.376, p = 0.005), and the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC-16) (Rho = −0.367, p = 0.006). The MAE in the RFT showed medium correlations with the Instability Support Reduced (Rho = 0.327, p = 0.016) and Instability Gait Eyes Open (Rho = 0.312, p = 0.022) subscales of the JAEN (Joined Assessment of Equilibrium and Neuro-motor) Scale. Conclusions: Around 70% of the subjects with FMS showed some alteration in the perception of VV; 60% of these patients presented visual system dependence. The SVV test correlates with the impact and health status of FMS, and the RFT correlates with the alteration in the dynamic balance.
Data Attributes in Quality Monitoring of Manufacturing Processes: The Welding Case
Authors: Stavropoulos Panagiotis , Papacharalampopoulos Alexios , Sabatakakis Kyriakos
Published: September 2023

Quality monitoring of manufacturing processes is a field where data analytics can thrive. The attributes of the data, denoted with the famous ‘7V’, can be used to potentially measure different aspects of the fact that data analytics may be referred to, in some cases, as big data. The current work is a step towards such a perspective, despite the fact that the method, the application and the data are coupled in some way. As a matter of fact, herein, a framework is presented through which a heuristic match between the big data attributes and the quality monitoring characteristics in the case of manufacturing is used to extract some insights about the value and the veracity of datasets, in particular. The case of simple machine learning is used and the results are very interesting, indicating the difficulty of extracting attribute characterization metrics in an a priori manner. Eventually, a roadmap is created with respect to integrating the data attributes into design procedures.
Laboratory Study of Effective Stress Coefficient for Saturated Claystone
Authors: Li Fanfan , Chen Weizhong , Wu Zhigang , Yu Hongdan , Li Ming , Zhang Zhifeng , Zha Fusheng
Published: September 2023

Claystone is potentially the main rock formation for the deep geological disposal of high-level radioactive nuclear waste. A major factor that affects the deformation of the host medium is effective stress. Therefore, studying the effective stress principle of claystone is essential for a stability analysis of waste disposal facilities. Consolidated drained (CD) tests were carried out on claystone samples to study their effective stress principle in this paper. Firstly, two samples were saturated under a specified confining pressure and pore pressure for about one month. Secondly, the confining pressure and pore pressure were increased to a specified value simultaneously and then reverted to the previous stress state (the deformations of the samples were recorded during the whole process). Different incremental combinations of the confining pressure and pore pressure were tried at this step. Finally, the effective stress coefficients of the samples were obtained through a back analysis. Furthermore, some potential influencing factors (the neutral stress and loading rate) of the effective stress coefficient were also studied through additional tests. Some interesting results are worth mentioning: (1) the effective stress coefficient of claystone is close to one; (2) the neutral stress and loading rate may have little effect on the effective stress coefficient of claystone.
TABASCO—Topology Algorithm That Benefits from Adaptation of Sorted Compliances Optimization
Authors: Bochenek Bogdan , Tajs-Zielińska Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

Although structural topology optimization has been developing for decades, it still plays a leading role within the area of engineering design. Solving contemporary design problems coming from industry requires the implementation of efficient methods and approaches. This stimulates research progress in the development of novel and versatile topology optimization algorithms. To follow these modern trends, an original topology generator has been elaborated and finally built as a Cellular Automaton with original update rules. The motivation for building the algorithm in this way came from the idea of utilizing the benefits of local compliances sorting. This is conducted on two levels: on the global level, the monotonic function mapping local compliances distribution is defined based on their sorted values; on the local level, for each cell, the compliances are sorted within the cell neighborhood. The three largest absolute values are selected, and these are the basis from which to formulate Cellular Automata update rules. These original rules can efficiently control the generation of structural topologies. This technique is somewhat inspired by the grey wolf optimizer strategy, wherein the process of updating design variables refers to the positions of the three best fitted wolves. It is proposed that we refer to the topology algorithm that benefits from the adaptation of sorted compliances optimization as TABASCO. The developed algorithm is a modified version of the flexible Cellular Automata one presented previously. The implemented extension, regarding the local level cell sorting, allows us to improve the resulting compliance values. The advantages of the algorithm, both from numerical and practical engineering points of view, as compared to the others developed within the field, may be gathered as follows: the algorithm works based on simple update rules, i.e., its numerical implementation is not complicated; it does not require gradient computations; filtering techniques are not needed; and it can easily be combined with professional structural analysis programs which allow engineering applications. The developed topology generator has been linked with ANSYS to show that it can be incorporated into a commercial structural analysis package. This is especially important with respect to the engineering implementations.
The Detection of False Data Injection Attack for Cyber–Physical Power Systems Considering a Multi-Attack Mode
Authors: Zhou Buxiang , Li Xuan , Zang Tianlei , Cai Yating , Wu Jiale , Wang Shijun
Published: September 2023

Amidst the evolving communication technology landscape, conventional distribution networks have gradually metamorphosed into cyber–physical power systems (CPPSs). Within this transformative milieu, the cyber infrastructure not only bolsters grid security but also introduces a novel security peril—the false data injection attack (FDIA). Owing to the variable knowledge held by cyber assailants regarding the system’s network structure, current achievements exhibit deficiencies in accommodating the detection of FDIA across diverse attacker profiles. To address the historical data imbalances encountered during practical FDIA detection, we propose a dataset balancing model based on generating adversarial network-gated recurrent units (GAN-GRU) in conjunction with an FDIA detection model based on the Transformer neural network. Harnessing the temporal data extraction capabilities of gated recurrent units, we construct a GRU neural network system as the GAN’s generator and discriminator, aimed at data balance. After preprocessing, the balanced data are fed into the Transformer neural network for training and output classification to discern distinct FDIA attack types. This model enables precise classification amidst varying FDIA scenarios. Validation involves testing the model on load data from the IEEE 118-bus system and affirming its high accuracy and effectiveness in detecting power systems after multiple attacks.
Deep Learning and Text Mining: Classifying and Extracting Key Information from Construction Accident Narratives
Authors: Li Jue , Wu Chang
Published: September 2023

Construction accidents can lead to serious consequences. To reduce the occurrence of such accidents and strengthen the execution capabilities in on-site safety management, managers must analyze accident report texts in depth and extract valuable information from them. However, accident report texts are usually presented in unstructured or semi-structured forms; analyzing these texts manually requires a lot of time and effort, it is difficult to cope with the demand of analyzing a large number of accident texts, and the quality of key information extracted manually may be poor. Therefore, this study proposes a classification method based on natural language processing (NLP) technology. First, we developed a text classification model based on a convolutional neural network (CNN) that can automatically classify accident categories based on accident text features. Next, taking the classified fall accidents as an example, we extracted key information from accident narratives using the term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) method and presented it visually using word clouds. The results show that the overall accuracy of the CNN model reaches 84%, which is better than the other three shallow machine-learning models. Then, eight key accident areas and three accident-prone operations were identified using the TF-IDF algorithm. This study can provide important guidance for project managers and can be used for on-site safety management to help prevent production safety accidents.
Aerodynamic Drag Reduction Analysis of Race Walking Formations Based on CFD Numerical Simulations and Wind Tunnel Experiments
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Ke Peng , Hong Ping
Published: September 2023

Drafting formations have been long recognized as highly effective for reducing drag and enhancing athletic performance, particularly in race walking events. The precise spacing and positioning of the race walkers are critical to optimizing the effectiveness of drafting. In this study, drag reduction in 15 drafting formations is investigated using wind tunnel experiments and CFD numerical simulations. The results show excellent consistency in drag reduction rate between the two methods, with differences being within 10%. This can be attributed to spacing replacing body shape differences as the primary factor influencing drag reduction. Optimal double, triple, and quadruple drafting formations produce the same results in both the wind tunnel experiments and CFD simulation, resulting in drag reductions of 67%, 66%, and 81% (wind tunnel) and 65%, 72%, and 85% (CFD). The sources of drag differences in the two methods are discussed from various aspects. The flow field obtained through CFD analysis is used to examine the mechanism of drag reduction, revealing that drafting formations have a significant shielding effect on incoming air, which reduces the number and speed of airflow impacting the core race walker. This shielding effect is identified as the primary cause of drag reduction. Using an empirical model for mechanical power output, optimal double, triple, and quadruple drafting formations enhance sports economy (4.4–5.7%), speed (3.61–4.67%), and performance (173.8–223.3 s) compared to race walking alone. The findings can serve as a reference for race walkers’ positioning strategies and provide insights for considering drafting formations in various running events.
FEM Investigation of a Multi-Neck Helmholtz Resonator
Authors: Papadakis Nikolaos M. , Stavroulakis Georgios E.
Published: September 2023

An increasingly significant area of research with several applications in numerous disciplines is that of multi-neck Helmholtz resonators. This research is set to explore the accuracy and applicability of the finite element method (FEM) for the calculation of the resonance frequency of multi-neck Helmholtz resonators. The FEM is employed for the estimation of the resonance frequency in various cases of multi-neck Helmholtz resonators: with cylindrical or spherical bodies, with unflanged or flanged necks of various dimensions and with various combinations of the above. Also, single neck resonators are examined. The FEM results are compared with the results of a recently proposed theoretical model available in the literature and with the outcome of the lumped element approximation (multi-neck) accounting for the added neck surface area. Comparisons revealed little deviation between the FEM and theoretical model (less than 1.1% error of calculation for every case). On the contrary, in comparison with the lumped element approximation (multi-neck), the error of calculation is significant (up to 40.3% for the cases examined). The FEM will prove useful in expanding our understanding of how multi-neck Helmholtz resonators perform under various conditions and configurations. The present research, which highlights the applicability of the FEM for the calculations of the resonance frequency of multi-neck Helmholtz resonators, goes a step further; this approach can be applied in special cases where it is not trivial to apply an analytical formula. The method can be used for applications of multi-neck Helmholtz resonators for various fields such as acoustic metamaterials, musical acoustics and noise mitigation.
Biodegradable Polymer Composites of Metal Organic Framework-5 (MOF-5) for the Efficient and Sustained Delivery of Cephalexin and Metronidazole
Authors: Anim Anoff , Mahmoud Lila A. M. , Kelly Adrian L. , Katsikogianni Maria G. , Nayak Sanjit
Published: September 2023

The sustained and controlled delivery of antimicrobial drugs has been largely studied using nanomaterials, like metal organic frameworks (MOFs), and various polymers. However, not much attention has been given to combining MOFs and biodegradable polymers towards the potentially more sustained release of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Herein, we report a comparative study of two widely used antimicrobial drugs, cephalexin and metronidazole, from zinc-based MOF-5 incorporated into biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly-lactic glycolic acid (PLGA) composites. Cephalexin and metronidazole were separately loaded into MOF-5 post-synthetically, followed by their integration into biodegradable PLGA and PCL composites. The pristine MOF-5 and the loaded MOFs were thoroughly characterised using Fourier-transformed infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy studies were carried out to assess the release of the drugs in PBS for up to 72 h, showing a cumulative release of 24.95 wt% and 27.84 wt% for cephalexin and metronidazole, respectively. The antibacterial properties of the pristine MOF, pure drugs, drug-loaded MOFs and the loaded composites were assessed against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli or Acinetobacter baumanii, respectively. A cephalexin-loaded MOF-5 composite of PCL (PCL-ceph@MOF-5) showed the best efficiency for the controlled release of drugs to inhibit the growth of the bacteria compared to the other composites. This study demonstrates that the combination of MOFs with biodegradable polymers can provide an efficient platform for the sustained release of antimicrobial drugs and can be a promising tool to manage antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Document Difficulty Aspects for Medical Practitioners: Enhancing Information Retrieval in Personalized Search Engines
Authors: Frihat Sameh , Beckmann Catharina Lena , Hartmann Eva Maria , Fuhr Norbert
Published: September 2023

Timely and relevant information enables clinicians to make informed decisions about patient care outcomes. However, discovering related and understandable information from the vast medical literature is challenging. To address this problem, we aim to enable the development of search engines that meet the needs of medical practitioners by incorporating text difficulty features. We collected a dataset of 209 scientific research abstracts from different medical fields, available in both English and German. To determine the difficulty aspects of readability and technical level of each abstract, 216 medical experts annotated the dataset. We used a pre-trained BERT model, fine-tuned to our dataset, to develop a regression model predicting those difficulty features of abstracts. To highlight the strength of this approach, the model was compared to readability formulas currently in use. Analysis of the dataset revealed that German abstracts are more technically complex and less readable than their English counterparts. Our baseline model showed greater efficacy than current readability formulas in predicting domain-specific readability aspects. Conclusion: Incorporating these text difficulty aspects into the search engine will provide healthcare professionals with reliable and efficient information retrieval tools. Additionally, the dataset can serve as a starting point for future research.