bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventing microbe colonization on avocado (Persea nubigena var. guatemalensis) through metabiotic treatment, a promising postharvest safety improvement
Authors: Tenea Gabriela N. , Angamarca Evelyn , Cifuentes Victor , Hidalgo Jazmin
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) produce various metabolites (i.e. metabiotics) with inhibitory capacity towards harmful foodborne pathogens.

Methods

This study aimed to design several antimicrobial formulations based on metabiotics obtained from different native LAB species (Lactobacillus pentosusUTNGt5,Lactococcus lactisUTNGt28, andWeissella cibariaUTNGt21O) and to detect the possible mode of action towards two multidrug resistantStaphylococcusspp. strains isolated from avocado (Persea nubigenavar.guatemalensis) fruits. Additionally, the formulation with the highest inhibitory activity was testedex vitroon avocados at the immature (firm) ripeness stage to evaluate their effect on microorganisms’ growth and fruit quality attributes post-harvest.

Results and discussion

Out of the top five formulations showing the highest bactericidal effectin vitroat their minimum inhibitory concentration (1 x MIC) on bothStaphylococcusspp. targets one candidate annotated P11 (consisting of UTNGt21O and UTNGt28; 1:3, v/v) was selected. Co-cultivation ofStaphylococcusstrains with P11 formulation results in cell viability reduction by 98%, by impairing the integrity of the cell membrane inducing cytoplasm molecule content leakage, protein profile changes, and finally bacterial death. Even though the total coliforms,Staphylococcusspp.,Enterobacter spp., molds, and yeasts counts were not fully eliminated by day 13 of storage, a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in viable cell counts were observed by day 8 upon the P11 treatment compared with non-treated control (C) and treated with a commercial disinfectant (T1) samples, suggesting that P11 formulation inhibited microbial colonization during storage. Likewise, no visible dark spots were observed on the mesocarp (pulp) upon the treatment with P11, whereas T1 and C fruits showed greater dark spots on the pulp as indicative of damage. The quality attributes, such as pH, total soluble solids, total titratable acidity, antioxidant capacity, and total polyphenol content, were not affected by the treatment. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) conducted on these five variables showed a clear separation of samples according to the maturity stage regardless of the treatment.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the active metabolites from LAB strains might create a barrier between the exocarp and mesocarp, inhibiting the microorganisms colonization, reducing fruit damage, and lengthening the fruit quality and safety after harvest.
Combined effects of Rhodiola rosea and caffeine supplementation on aerobic endurance and muscle explosiveness: a synergistic approach
Authors: Yun Hezhang , Lu Bin , Su Wenbo , Wang Junjie , Zheng Jing , Wang Jing , Wang Zhaolong , Li Yi , Sun Yaowei , Liu Chang
Published: March 2024

This study examined the synergistic effects of combining Rhodiola rosea (RHO) and caffeine (CAF) supplementation on muscle endurance and explosiveness in SD rats and human subjects, encompassing individuals without prior exercise training experience and seasoned aerobic athletes. Male SD rats and healthy human volunteers were randomly divided into four groups: CAF, RHO, CAF + RHO, and a control group (CTR). Nutritional supplements were administered throughout the training period, and pre-and post-measurement data were collected. In both the rat model and human subjects, the RHO+CAF group demonstrated significantly greater effects compared to the use of RHO or CAF supplements individually. Rats in the RHO+CAF group demonstrated extended running and swimming times and an increase in erythropoietin (EPO) mRNA expression in comparison to the CTR. Blood parameters, such as serum EPO levels, were enhanced in the CAF + RHO group, while blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and lactate (LA) levels significantly decreased in both the RHO and CAF + RHO groups. Hepatic and muscle glycogen contents were also higher in these groups. The gene expression analysis in rats demonstrated an elevation in the mRNA levels of glucose transporter-4 (GLUT-4), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α), Monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT-1), and Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in both the RHO and RHO+CAF groups. For individuals without prior aerobic training experience, the RHO+CAF group showed significant improvements compared to the CTR group in maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), 5 km run, countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump, and 30 m sprint. For individuals with years of aerobic training experience, the RHO+CAF group exhibited enhanced performance in the 5 km run, CMJ, and standing long jump compared to the CTR group. In conclusion, the continuous 30 days supplementation of RHO, combined with a single dose of CAF, demonstrated superior effects on muscle endurance and explosiveness in both animal and human studies when compared to the use of RHO or CAF individually.
Emerging role of m6A modification in ovarian cancer: progression, drug resistance, and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Alam Shahil , Giri Pankaj Kumar
Published: March 2024

Ovarian Cancer (OC) ranks as a prominent contributor to mortality among female reproductive system associated cancers, particularly the prevalent subtype epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC). Despite advancements in treatment modalities, the prognosis for OC patients remains grim due to limitation of current therapeutic methodology such as high cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents and tumor relapse making existing chemotherapy ineffective. Recognizing the limitations of a broad-spectrum approach to treating OC, a shift toward targeted therapies aligning with unique molecular features is imperative. This shift stems from an incomplete understanding of OC’s origin, distinguishing it from extensively researched malignancies such as cervical or colon cancer. At the molecular level, postsynthetic modifications—DNA, RNA, and protein—shape transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and posttranslational processes. Posttranscriptional regulatory mechanisms, including RNA modifications are termed epitranscriptomic and play critical roles in this process. For more than five decades, 100+ RNA post-synthetic modifications, notably N6-methyladenosine (m6A), most prevalent RNA modification in mammals, dynamically regulate messenger RNA (mRNA), and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) life orchestrated via writers, erasers, and readers. The disruption of m6A modifications are found in several cancers, including OC, underscores pivotal role of m6A. This review focused on m6A modifications in coding and non-coding RNAs, emphasizing their role as prognostic markers in OC and their impact on development, migration, invasion, and drug resistance. Additionally, RNA-modified regulators have been explored as potential molecular and therapeutic targets, offering an innovative approach to combatting this challenging malignancy.
Minimum intensity projection of embossed quadrant-detection images for improved photoreceptor mosaic visualisation
Authors: Kalitzeos Angelos , Michaelides Michel , Dubra Alfredo
Published: March 2024

Non-confocal split-detection imaging reveals the cone photoreceptor inner segment mosaic in a plethora of retinal conditions, with the potential of providing insight to ageing, disease, and response to treatment processes, in vivo, and allows the screening of candidates for cell rescue therapies. This imaging modality complements confocal reflectance adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy, which relies on the waveguiding properties of cones, as well as their orientation toward the pupil. Split-detection contrast, however, is directional, with each cone inner segment appearing as opposite dark and bright semicircles, presenting a challenge for either manual or automated cell identification. Quadrant-detection imaging, an evolution of split detection, could be used to generate images without directional dependence. Here, we demonstrate how the embossed-filtered quadrant-detection images, originally proposed by Migacz et al. for visualising hyalocytes, can also be used to generate photoreceptor mosaic images with better and non-directional contrast for improved visualisation. As a surrogate of visualisation improvement between legacy split-detection images and the images resulting from the method described herein, we provide preliminary results of simple image processing routines that may enable the automated identification of generic image features, as opposed to complex algorithms developed specifically for photoreceptor identification, in pathological retinas.
Perceptions of perinatal alcohol use and treatment needs in Cape Town, South Africa: a qualitative study
Authors: Petersen Williams Petal , Erasmus-Claassen Lesley-Ann , Taylor Shantae , Browne Felicia A. , Wechsberg Wendee M. , Myers Bronwyn , Parry Charles D. H. , Washio Yukiko
Published: March 2024

Background

South Africa has one of the world’s highest rates of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Recent evidence also showed that alcohol use during lactation significantly compromises child development in children exposed to alcohol through breastfeeding, independent of prenatal alcohol exposure. This study explored perceptions of perinatal alcohol use and treatment needs in Cape Town, South Africa, to inform the development of an intervention to encourage alcohol abstinence during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Methods

Individual in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with women who were pregnant with a recent history of alcohol use (n=32) and clinic and community stakeholders (n=16). Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Coding and thematic analyses were conducted in NVivo 12.

Results

Results indicate widespread perception that women know the dangers of drinking alcohol while pregnant with much less known about drinking while breastfeeding. Mixed views were shared about whether women who are pregnant or breastfeeding experience alcohol-related stigma. Participants described contextual factors impacting drinking that include interpersonal violence, lack of support, stress, anxiety and poverty, and drinking being normalised. Finally, participants had mixed views and conflicting knowledge of available resources to support alcohol reduction and highlighted a desire for support groups and the involvement of partners in alcohol interventions.

Conclusions

Findings from this study highlight the need for an alcohol intervention programme that is innovative and tailored to the needs of women who are pregnant or postpartum. It also highlights the importance of including community-based support and partner involvement in these interventions.
Optimization of processing conditions of starch-based hydrogels produced by high-pressure processing (HPP) using response surface methodology
Authors: Koshenaj Katerina , Ferrari Giovanna
Published: March 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the optimal processing conditions to produce stable starch-based hydrogels by high-pressure processing (HPP) via response surface methodology.

Methods: The experiments were carried out with different starch suspensions, namely rice, corn, wheat, and tapioca starch, at a concentration in the range of 10%–40% w/w, processed at a pressure level of 600 MPa and holding times between 5 min and 15 min. Gel formation was assessed by determining the gelatinization extent and structuring level of the samples.

Results and discussion: The results demonstrated that starch/water ratio and holding time had a significant impact on gel formation in HPP treatments. Various degrees of gelatinization were observed in the treated samples due to the water absorption capacity of the starch and the molecular interactions between water and starch occurring during gelatinization. Moreover, a highly structured hydrogel formed at starch concentrations higher than 25% (w/w), whereas when starch concentration was less than 20% (w/w) lower-structured hydrogels formed, as confirmed by the values of the efficiency index measured. Completely gelatinized, highly structured, and stable HPP hydrogels were obtained from starch solutions treated at the optimized processing conditions.
Effect of high-risk sleep apnea on treatment-response to a tailored digital cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia program: a quasi-experimental trial
Authors: Sweetman Alexander , Reynolds Chelsea , Lack Leon , Vakulin Andrew , Chai-Coetzer Ching Li , Wallace Douglas M. , Crawford Megan , Richardson Cele
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Therapist-delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) is an effective but largely inaccessible treatment for people with Co-Morbid Insomnia and Sleep Apnea (COMISA). To increase CBTi access for COMISA, we aimed to develop a self-guided interactive 5-session digital CBTi program that is appropriate for people with insomnia-alone and COMISA, and compare its effectiveness between people with insomnia-alone, vs. comorbid insomnia and high-risk sleep apnea.

Methods

Data from 62 adults with insomnia symptoms were used. High-risk sleep apnea was defined as a score of ≥5 on the OSA50. Participants self-reported symptoms of insomnia (ISI), depression, anxiety, sleepiness (ESS), fatigue, and maladaptive sleep-related beliefs (DBAS-16) at baseline, 8-week, and 16-week follow-up. ESS scores were additionally assessed during each CBTi session. Intent-to-treat mixed models and complete-case chi2 analyses were used.

Results

There were more participants with insomnia-alone [n = 43, age M (sd) = 51.8 (17.0), 86.1% female] than suspected COMISA [n = 19, age = 54.0 (14.8), 73.7% female]. There were no between-group differences in baseline questionnaire data, or rates of missing follow-up data. There were no significant group by time interactions on any outcomes. Main effects of time indicated moderate-to-large and sustained improvements in insomnia (d = 3.3), depression (d = 1.2), anxiety (d = 0.6), ESS (d = 0.5), fatigue (d = 1.2), and DBAS-16 symptoms (d = 1.2) at 16-weeks. ESS scores did not increase significantly during any CBTi session.

Conclusion

This interactive digital CBTi program is effective in people with insomnia-alone, and people with co-morbid insomnia and high-risk sleep apnea. Further research is required to determine the effectiveness, safety and acceptability of digital CBTi in people with insomnia and confirmed sleep apnea.

Clinical Trial Registration

This trial was prospectively registered on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR, ACTRN12621001395820).
Does the China–Pakistan free trade agreement benefit the vegetable exports of Pakistan? A gravity estimation
Authors: Khan Humayun , Chen Yangfen , Lv Liu
Published: March 2024

In the backdrop of criticism that the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement has disproportionately favored China, particularly in agricultural trade, there has been a surge in Pakistan’s imports, leading to a trade deficit. This study attempts to evaluate the impact of CPFTA 1&2 on the vegetable exports of Pakistan which is an important sector of the agricultural industry. A panel data set of Pakistan’s vegetable exports to its trading partners from 2003 to 2021 was analyzed with the extensively used gravity model of trade. The vegetable export data was sourced from the International Trade Centre (ITC) which is based on the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. The results suggest that the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA-I) has a positive association with Pakistan’s vegetable exports to China. However, trade liberalization with Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia plays a more substantial role in driving Pakistan’s vegetable exports. CPFTA-II has not had a measurable or statistically significant impact on the vegetable exports of Pakistan as this period was highly influenced by COVID-19. The results of colonialism variables show that Pakistan is exporting more to countries with the same colonial history. Moreover, the results of the geographical variable suggest that Pakistan should explore more close markets to expand vegetable exports. Policy implications suggest the need to reduce trade costs, leverage CPEC infrastructure, enrich trade relations with neighboring countries, and involve business professionals in policy negotiations.
Research on the Identification Method of Maize Seed Origin Using NIR Spectroscopy and GAF-VGGNet
Authors: Xu Xiuying , Fu Changhao , Gao Yingying , Kang Ye , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2024

The origin of seeds is a crucial environmental factor that significantly impacts crop production. Accurate identification of seed origin holds immense importance for ensuring traceability in the seed industry. Currently, traditional methods used for identifying the origin of maize seeds involve mineral element analysis and isotope fingerprinting, which are laborious, destructive, time-consuming, and suffer from various limitations. In this experiment, near-infrared spectroscopy was employed to collect 1360 maize seeds belonging to 12 different varieties from 8 distinct origins. Spectral information within the range of 11,550–3950 cm−1 was analyzed while eliminating multiple interferences through first-order derivative combined with standard normal transform (SNV). The processed one-dimensional spectral data were then transformed into three-dimensional spectral maps using Gram’s Angle Field (GAF) to be used as input values along with the VGG-19 network model. Additionally, a convolution layer with a step size of 1 × 1 and the padding value set at 1 was added, while pooling layers had a step size of 2 × 2. A batch size of 48 and learning rate set at 10−8 were utilized while incorporating the Dropout mechanism to prevent model overfitting. This resulted in the construction of the GAF-VGG network model which successfully decoded the output into accurate place-of-origin labels for maize seed detection. The findings suggest that the GAF-VGG network model exhibits significantly superior performance compared to both the original data and the PCA-based origin identification model in terms of accuracy, recall, specificity, and precision (96.81%, 97.23%, 95.35%, and 95.12%, respectively). The GAF-VGGNet model effectively captures the NIR features of different origins of maize seeds without requiring feature wavelength extraction, thereby reducing training time and enhancing accuracy in identifying maize seed origin. Moreover, it simplifies near-infrared (NIR) spectral modeling complexity and presents a novel approach to maize seed origin identification and traceability analysis.
Development and Characterization of a Contact-Charging Electrostatic Spray UAV System
Authors: Zhao Denan , Cooper Simon , Chima Parmjit , Wang Guobin , Zhang Lechun , Sun Binshu , Zhang Xuejian , Lan Yubin
Published: March 2024

Utilizing agricultural UAVs for pesticide and insecticide spraying is an effective measure for plant protection. However, achieving effective coverage on the back side of target is often challenging. To address this issue, this study combined a contact-charging spraying system with a UAV to develop an electrostatic plant protection UAV system. Upon activating the electrostatic component, strong electrostatic effects were observed at the nozzle, altering the distribution of the liquid flow; the distribution within the liquid flow became more homogeneous, while the edge regions experienced electrostatic repulsion, leading to changes in droplet size and an increase in droplet density. In the central area, droplet size reduced from 159 μm to 135 μm, while in the edge area, it changed from no value to 120 μm. During field tests using the UAV, the results showed an increase of 1.0 m in effective spray width (at a flight height of 4.0 m), indicating that the charges and propellor wind field contributed to the diffusion of droplets towards the edges. Additionally, the droplet density increased by an average of 19.7 droplets/cm2, and the overall deposition increased by 0.12 μL/cm2, resulting in an approximate three-fold increase compared to conventional spray, which aids in insect control and reduces pesticide usage.
Growth Competition between Rice (Oryza sativa) and Barnyardgrass (Echinochloa oryzicola) under Varying Mono-/Mixed Cropping Patterns and Air Temperatures
Authors: Bir Md. Shahidul Haque , Ali Md. Arshad , Aktar Most Mohshina , Park Kee Woong , Shahbaz Muhammad , Chong Khim Phin , Shahid Muhammad Shafiq , Panfilova Olga , Ondrasek Gabrijel
Published: March 2024

Increase in the concentration of atmospheric greenhouse gases significantly contributes to global warming, representing a substantial challenge for crop production. The study was conducted to determine the growth competition between rice (Oryza sativa) and barnyardgrass (Echinochloa oryzicola) under (i) different cropping patterns and (ii) elevated air temperatures in phytotrons under field condition, at two plant densities (4 and 16 plants per pot). Rice and barnyardgrass were planted with varying cropping patterns (rice: barnyardgrass mixture proportions); 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100. Air temperatures were maintained in phytotrons as follows: Ambient–A (Control), A +0.8 °C, A +1.9 °C and A +3.4 °C. Plant attributes such as plant height, number of effective tillers, shoot dry weight and grain yield of rice were recorded in this study in the rice/barnyardgrass mixture proportions in the order of 100:0 > 75:25 > 50:50 > 25:75. The highest rice grain yield (37.7 g/pot) was recorded in the monoculture (100:0 rice/barnyardgrass) under ambient temperature, whereas the lowest rice grain yield (0.3 g/pot) was recorded at the 25:75 rice/barnyardgrass mixture proportion under ambient +3.4 °C. The increase in temperature had a significant impact on growth, number of tillers and shoot dry weight of both rice and barnyardgrass plants and followed the order of ambient +3.4 °C > ambient +1.9 °C > ambient +0.8 °C > ambient. However, higher temperature negatively affected the yield of rice and resulted in a substantial decrease in the grain yield. Barnyardgrass showed the highest plant characteristics when grown alongside rice compared to the growth in monoculture. This indicates that barnyardgrass was highly competitive when grown under interspecific competition compared to an intraspecific competition. In contrast, rice grew better in monoculture than in mixture with barnyardgrass.
New, Old, and Shared Antibody Specificities in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Frasca Loredana , Mennella Anna , Palazzo Raffaella
Published: March 2024

Autoantibodies represent a primary characteristic of many systemic autoimmune diseases [...]
The Potential Role of Major Argan Oil Compounds as Nrf2 Regulators and Their Antioxidant Effects
Authors: El Kebbaj Riad , Bouchab Habiba , Tahri-Joutey Mounia , Rabbaa Soufiane , Limami Youness , Nasser Boubker , Egbujor Melford C. , Tucci Paolo , Andreoletti Pierre , Saso Luciano , Cherkaoui-Malki Mustapha
Published: March 2024

In recent years, research on the discovery of natural compounds with potent antioxidant properties has resulted in growing interest in these compounds due to their potential therapeutic applications in oxidative-stress-related diseases. Argan oil, derived from the kernels of a native tree from Morocco, Argania spinosa, is renowned for its rich composition of bioactive compounds, prominently tocopherols, polyphenols, and fatty acids. Interestingly, a large body of data has shown that several components of argan oil activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, playing a crucial role in the cellular defense against oxidative stress. Activation of this Nrf2 pathway by argan oil components leads to the increased expression of downstream target proteins like NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), and catalase (CAT). Such Nrf2 activation accounts for several health benefits related to antioxidant defense, anti-inflammatory effects, cardiovascular health, and neuroprotection in organisms. Furthermore, the synergistic action of the bioactive compounds in argan oil enhances the Nrf2 pathway. Accordingly, the modulation of the Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1)/Nrf2 signaling pathway by these components highlights the potential of argan oil in protecting cells from oxidative stress and underlines its relevance in dietetic prevention and therapeutic applications. This review aims to provide an overview of how major compounds in argan oil activate the Nrf2 pathway, updating our knowledge on their mechanisms of action and associated health benefits.
Phytochemical Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Albanian Juniperus communis and Juniperus oxycedrus Berries and Needle Leaves Extracts
Authors: Mërtiri Ilir , Păcularu-Burada Bogdan , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to investigate the phytochemical profile and in vitro antibacterial activity of two juniper species collected in Albania, Juniperus communis and Juniperus oxycedrus. The berries and the needle leaves were subjected to solid–liquid solvent ultrasound-assisted extraction. The phytochemical characterization of the extracts was performed by spectrophotometric and chromatographic means. The extract of J. communis berries (JcB) showed a higher total phenolic and flavonoid content (3.04 ± 0.09 mg GAE/g DW, and 1.14 ± 0.36 mg QE/g DW, respectively), also a higher antioxidant activity from DPPH and ABTS radical screening assays, compared to J. oxycedrus berries (JoxB) extract. The extract of J. oxycedrus needle leaves (JoxL) prevailed in total flavonoid content (10.55 ± 0.24 mg QE/g DW), and ABTS assays (1.83 ± 0.01 mM TE/g DW), compared to the extract of J. communis needle leaves (JcL). The chromatographic analysis revealed the presence of ellagic acid and kaempferol in all the samples. Ellagic acid was the main identified compound with the highest quantity in the extracts of JoxB, JoxL, and JcB with an average of 445.69 ± 0.96 µg/g, 2890.05 ± 0.29 µg/g, and 8133.83 ± 4.03 µg/g, respectively. The antibacterial potential of the ethanolic extracts was evaluated on Bacillus spp., Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. In the Agar Well Diffusion Assay, it was observed that all the tested bacterial strains were sensitive to the extracts, whereas selected extracts showed a similar inhibition activity rate compared with the antibiotic substance (Chloramphenicol), used as a positive control. The extracts showed a similar minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentration for the individual bacterial strains, suggesting that J. communis and J. oxycedrus extracts have a similar potential in antibacterial activity.
Modeling and Analysis of a Long-Range Target Localization Problem Based on an XS Anode Single-Photon Detector
Authors: Zhai Yihang , Wang Bin , Wang Xiaofei , Ni Qiliang
Published: March 2024

With the development of space detection technology, the detection of long-range dark and weak space targets has become an important issue in space detection. Cross-strip anode photon imaging detectors can detect weak light signals with extremely low dark count rates and are well suited to applications in long-range target detection systems. Since cross-strip anode detectors are expensive to develop and fabricate, a theoretical analysis of the detection process is necessary before fabrication. During the detection process, due to the dead time of the detector, some photon-generated signals are aliased, and the true arrival position of the photon cannot be obtained. These aliased signals are usually removed directly in the conventional research. But in this work, we find that these aliased signals are not meaningless and can be applied to center of mass detection. Specifically, we model the probabilistic mechanisms of the detection data, compute the average photon positions using aliased and non-aliased data and prove that our method provides a lower variance compared to the conventional method, which only uses non-aliased data. Simulation experiments are designed to further verify the effectiveness of the aliasing data for detecting the center of mass. The simulation results support that our method of utilizing the aliasing data provides more accurate detection results than that of removing the aliasing data.
Concurrent Sprint Swimming Interval and Dryland Training: Performance and Biomechanical Variable Changes within a Mesocycle
Authors: Arsoniadis Gavriil G. , Chalkiadakis Ioannis , Toubekis Argyris G.
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of concurrent dryland and sprint swimming interval training (SIT), and of SIT only, on swimmers’ performance and biomechanical variables before, during, and following 6 weeks of training. Twenty-four swimmers (age: 16.5 ± 2.9 years) were assigned to three groups of equal performance level and applied concurrent dryland and SIT three times per week, as follows: (i) maximum strength (three sets × four repetitions, load 90% of one-repetition maximum) [1RM]) prior to SΙT (group: G-MS); (ii) muscular endurance (2 sets × 20 repetitions, load 55% of 1RM) prior to SΙT (group: G-ME); and (iii) SΙT only (consisting of 2 series of 4 × 50 m sprints (group: G-CON)). Performance time, stroke rate (SR), stroke length (SL), and stroke index (SI) were measured during 4 × 50 m sprints. For pre- vs. post-performance time, SR, SL, and SI were similar between groups (p > 0.05). SR increased in G-MS and G-ME in week 6 vs. week 1 (p = 0.02), while SL and SI were similar between groups (p > 0.05). Concurrent dryland compared with sprint interval swimming training on the same day may progressively increase SR within a 6-week period, and all types of training improved front crawl efficiency following a mesocycle of training.
Analysis and Correction of the Additive Phase Effect Generated by Power Change in a Mach–Zehnder Interferometer Integrated to an Optical Trap
Authors: Domínguez-Flores Azael D. , Rayas Juan A. , Martínez-García Amalia , Cordero Raúl R.
Published: March 2024

Immersion microscope objectives stand out for their large numerical aperture, which improves the optical resolution of imaging systems such as those used in microscopic interferometry. These objectives increase the gradient forces of a beam focused through them, forming an Optical Trap (OT). However, many studies on microscopic interferometry neglect the contributions of different optical materials in the system that are also exposed to laser radiation, perhaps simply assuming transparency. In this work, a Mach–Zehnder interferometer and an OT, which share several components (including the same oil immersion objective), were coupled. Here, the response of the interferometer to a progressive increase in the OT laser power, while the interferometer laser power remains constant, is reported. Changes in laser power affect the oil temperature, altering its refractive index and volume, which in turn causes a phase shifting on the transmitted wavefront. Optical phase analysis is applied in the three-dimensional measurement of the damage produced by the OT on a paint film. This study suggests that the refractive index variations in the immersion oil affect interferograms because they will then exhibit an additive phase term that must be considered in that final measurement. Additionally, the OT geometry changes with the power increase.
Securing Internet of Things Applications Using Software-Defined Network-Aided Group Key Management with a Modified One-Way Function Tree
Authors: Taurshia Antony , Kathrine Jaspher W. , Andrew J. , Eunice R Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Group management is practiced to deploy access control and to ease multicast and broadcast communication. However, the devices that constitute the Internet of Things (IoT) are resource-constrained, and the network of IoT is heterogeneous with variable topologies interconnected. Hence, to tackle heterogeneity, SDN-aided centralized group management as a service framework is proposed to provide a global network perspective and administration. Group management as a service includes a group key management function, which can be either centralized or decentralized. Decentralized approaches use complex cryptographic primitives, making centralized techniques the optimal option for the IoT ecosystem. It is also necessary to use a safe, scalable approach that addresses dynamic membership changes with minimal overhead to provide a centralized group key management service. A group key management strategy called a one-way Function Tree (OFT) was put forth to lower communication costs in sizable dynamic groups. The technique, however, is vulnerable to collusion attacks in which an appending and withdrawing device colludes and conspires to obtain unauthorized keys for an unauthorized timeline. Several collusion-deprived improvements to the OFT method are suggested; however, they come at an increased cost for both communication and computation. The Modified One-Way Function Tree (MOFT), a novel technique, is suggested in this proposed work. The collusion resistance of the proposed MOFT system was demonstrated via security analysis. According to performance studies, MOFT lowers communication costs when compared to the original OFT scheme. In comparison to the OFT’s collusion-deprived upgrades, the computation cost is smaller.
Optimization of CO2 Injection Huff and Puff Process in Shale Reservoirs Based on NMR Technology
Authors: Gao Yang , Liu Dehua , Li Sichen , Cheng Liang , Sun Jing
Published: March 2024

The pore mobilization characteristics of CO2 when in shale reservoirs is an important indicator for evaluating the effectiveness of its application for enhanced recovery in shale reservoirs, and it is important to develop a comprehensive set of physical simulation methods that are consistent with actual field operations. This has underscored the need for efficient development techniques in the energy industry. The huff-n-puff seepage oil recovery method is crucial for developing tight oil reservoirs, including shale oil. However, the small pore size and low permeability of shale render conventional indoor experiments unsuitable for shale oil cores. Consequently, there is a need to establish a fully enclosed experimental method with a high detection accuracy to optimize the huff and puff process parameters. The NMR technique identifies oil and gas transport features in nanogaps, and in this study, we use low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) online displacement technology to conduct CO2 huff and puff experiments on shale oil, covering the gas injection, well stewing, and production stages. After conducting four rounds of huff-n-puff experiments, key process parameters were optimized, including the simmering time, huff-n-puff timing, number of huff-n-puff rounds, and the amount of percolant injected. The findings reveal that as the number of huff-n-puff rounds increases, the time required for well stabilization decreases correspondingly. However, the enhancement in recovery from additional huff-n-puff rounds becomes negligible after three rounds, showing only a 1.16% improvement. CO2 re-injection is required when the pressure falls to 70% of the initiaformation pressure to ensure efficient shale oil well development. This study also indicates that the most economically beneficial results are achieved when the injection volume of the huff-n-puff process is 0.44 pore volumes (PVs).
Impact of Laser Cavity Configurations and Pump Radiation Parameters on the Characteristics of High-Energy Yellow Raman Lasers Based on Potassium Gadolinium Tungstate Crystals
Authors: Tarasov Aleksandr , Chu Hong
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the influence of pump radiation parameters and laser resonator configurations on the characteristics of high-energy 589 nm KGW Raman lasers is investigated and explained. The best energy efficiency is obtained in lasers with a flat resonator, while the best angular characteristics are obtained in lasers with an unstable resonator. The use of stable spherical resonators results in the worst energy and angular characteristics. The angular divergence in lasers with flat cavities increases with pump intensity because of wing growth, whereas the core width remains unchanged. The structure of the wings is recorded and analyzed.
Determining Effective Threshold Range of Image Pixel Values for Municipal Waste-Contaminated Clay
Authors: Zhang Rui , Cao Liwen , Guo Yuliang
Published: March 2024

Currently, more attention has been given to the study of the microstructure of contaminated clay, while few studies have focused on the analysis of SEM images of clay from a threshold perspective. The purpose of this paper was to determine the threshold range of image pixel values for municipal waste-contaminated clay by observing and processing SEM images of municipal waste-contaminated clay under different seepage depths and concentrations. In this study, municipal waste-contaminated clay samples were obtained at different depths in a column test exhibiting different CaCO3 and CH3COOH concentrations, imaged through SEM and subjected to binarization. Three steps for determining the pixel threshold value of the SEM images were described, including preprocessing and binarizing the SEM images in Image Pro Plus 6.0 (IPP) and morphological processing by the Pores (Particles) and Cracks Analysis System V2.3 (PCAS). The apparent void ratio of contaminated clay and the fractal dimension of clay particles were applied as evaluation parameters. The determined effective threshold range of the image pixel values of municipal waste-contaminated clay was 110–140. The accuracy of this method was verified in three aspects: the relationship between the threshold value and the apparent void ratio, the variation in pore blockage with seepage depth, and the characteristics of the compaction factor with seepage depth and pollutant concentration.
The Energies of Activation and Deactivation of 2,4-Dichlorophenol Degradation by Horseradish Peroxidase Immobilized on the Modified Nanofibrous Membrane
Authors: Miłek Justyna
Published: March 2024

Chlorophenol compounds pose a health risk to many organisms due to their toxicity. The present paper presents the estimation of the activation and deactivation energies and the optimum temperatures of 2,4-dichlorophenol degradation by horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The activities of horseradish peroxidase depending on temperature were analyzed. In a mathematical model, describing 2,4-dichlorophenol degradation by HRP was assumed that both the 2,4-dichlorophenol degradation and the deactivation of HRP were first-order reactions by the enzyme concentration. The parameters of the optimum temperatures Topt, the activation energies Er, and the deactivation energies Ed in the process of 2,4-dichlorophenol degradation by HRP immobilized on a modified nanofibrous membrane were determined kd and t1/2 were determined for HRP immobilized at temperatures in the range of 25 °C to 75 °C. Likewise, thermodynamic parameters such as the change in the enthalpy ∆H#, change in entropy ∆S#, the change in Gibbs free energy ∆G# for native HPR and the change in the enthalpy ∆Hd#, change in entropy ∆Sd#, and the change in Gibbs free energy ∆Gd# for deactivated HRP were determined at 25 °C.
GLBRF: Group-Based Lightweight Human Behavior Recognition Framework in Video Camera
Authors: Lee Young-Chan , Lee So-Yeon , Kim Byeongchang , Kim Dae-Young
Published: March 2024

Behavioral recognition is an important technique for recognizing actions by analyzing human behavior. It is used in various fields, such as anomaly detection and health estimation. For this purpose, deep learning models are used to recognize and classify the features and patterns of each behavior. However, video-based behavior recognition models require a lot of computational power as they are trained using large datasets. Therefore, there is a need for a lightweight learning framework that can efficiently recognize various behaviors. In this paper, we propose a group-based lightweight human behavior recognition framework (GLBRF) that achieves both low computational burden and high accuracy in video-based behavior recognition. The GLBRF system utilizes a relatively small dataset to reduce computational cost using a 2D CNN model and improves behavior recognition accuracy by applying location-based grouping to recognize interaction behaviors between people. This enables efficient recognition of multiple behaviors in various services. With grouping, the accuracy was as high as 98%, while without grouping, the accuracy was relatively low at 68%.
Bioinspired Algorithms for Multiple Sequence Alignment: A Systematic Review and Roadmap
Authors: Ibrahim Mohammed K. , Yusof Umi Kalsom , Eisa Taiseer Abdalla Elfadil , Nasser Maged
Published: March 2024

Multiple Sequence Alignment (MSA) plays a pivotal role in bioinformatics, facilitating various critical biological analyses, including the prediction of unknown protein structures and functions. While numerous methods are available for MSA, bioinspired algorithms stand out for their efficiency. Despite the growing research interest in addressing the MSA challenge, only a handful of comprehensive reviews have been undertaken in this domain. To bridge this gap, this study conducts a thorough analysis of bioinspired-based methods for MSA through a systematic literature review (SLR). By focusing on publications from 2010 to 2024, we aim to offer the most current insights into this field. Through rigorous eligibility criteria and quality standards, we identified 45 relevant papers for review. Our analysis predominantly concentrates on bioinspired-based techniques within the context of MSA. Notably, our findings highlight Genetic Algorithm and Memetic Optimization as the most commonly utilized algorithms for MSA. Furthermore, benchmark datasets such as BAliBASE and SABmark are frequently employed in evaluating MSA solutions. Structural-based methods emerge as the preferred approach for assessing MSA solutions, as revealed by our systematic literature review. Additionally, this study explores current trends, challenges, and unresolved issues in the realm of bioinspired algorithms for MSA, offering practitioners and researchers valuable insights and comprehensive understanding of the field.
Size Control of Biomimetic Curved-Edge Vaterite with Chiral Toroid Morphology via Sonochemical Synthesis
Authors: Min Ki , Kim Dong , Pack Seung
Published: March 2024

The metastable vaterite polymorph of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) holds significant practical importance, particularly in regenerative medicine, drug delivery, and various personal care products. Controlling the size and morphology of vaterite particles is crucial for biomedical applications. This study explored the synergistic effect of ultrasonic (US) irradiation and acidic amino acids on CaCO3 synthesis, specifically the size, dispersity, and crystallographic phase of curved-edge vaterite with chiral toroids (chiral-curved vaterite). We employed 40 kHz US irradiation and introduced L- or D-aspartic acid as an additive for the formation of spheroidal chiral-curved vaterite in an aqueous solution of CaCl2 and Na2CO3 at 20 ± 1 °C. Chiral-curved vaterites precipitated through mechanical stirring (without US irradiation) exhibited a particle size of approximately 15 μm, whereas those formed under US irradiation were approximately 6 μm in size and retained their chiral topoid morphology. When a fluorescent dye was used for the analysis of loading efficiency, the size-reduced vaterites with chiral morphology, produced through US irradiation, exhibited a larger loading efficiency than the vaterites produced without US irradiation. These results hold significant value for the preparation of biomimetic chiral-curved CaCO3, specifically size-reduced vaterites, as versatile biomaterials for material filling, drug delivery, and bone regeneration.
A Full-Scale Test on Enhancing the Thermal Performance of a Concrete Slab Embedded with a MWCNT Heating Module Exposed to an Outdoor Environment
Authors: Park Sohyeon , Hwang Hoonhee , Lee Heeyoung , Chung Wonseok
Published: March 2024

The aberrant winter temperatures resulting from climatic shifts give rise to the formation of imperceptible black ice on road surfaces, posing a risk of accidents. In this study, a carbon nanotube (CNT)-based heating module was fabricated, embedded in a concrete slab, and subjected to a full-scale test in an outdoor environment. Preliminary tests were conducted to scrutinize the thermal behavior of the CNT heating modules applied to the concrete slab, considering the inter-module distance and the concentration of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in the concrete perimeter. A full-scale concrete slab was fabricated on the basis of the preliminary test results. Thermal performance analyses of the concrete perimeter were performed according to the MWCNT concentration, the distance between the MWCNT heating modules, and the supply voltage based on a full-scale test conducted in an outdoor environment. The full-scale test results indicated that the maximum temperature variation of the MWCNT heating module embedded concrete slab was 46.8 °C, and its thermal performance varied by 1.9 times depending on the concentration of MWCNTs in the concrete perimeter.
Evaluation of Hysteretic Performance of Horizontally Placed Corrugated Steel Plate Shear Walls with Vertical Stiffeners
Authors: Wu Ruomin , Hu Zhengping , Tong Jingzhong
Published: March 2024

Corrugated steel plate shear walls (CSPSWs) have been widely utilized as lateral-resistant and energy-dissipating components in multistory and high-rise buildings. To improve their buckling stability, shear resistance, and energy-dissipating capacity, stiffeners were added to the CSPSW, forming stiffened CSPSWs (SCSPSWs). Evaluating the hysteretic performances of SCSPSWs is crucial for guiding seismic design in engineering practice. In this paper, the dissipated energy values of the SCSPSWs with different parameters were calculated. Based on the obtained dissipated energy values, the elastoplastic design theory of stiffeners was established, and the evaluation of the hysteretic performance of the SCSPSWs was provided. Firstly, a finite element (FE) model for analyzing the hysteretic performance of the SCSPSWs was developed and validated against hysteretic tests of the CSPSW conducted by the authors previously. Subsequently, using the validated FE model, approximately 81 examples of SCSPSWs subjected to cyclic loads were analyzed. Hysteretic curves, skeleton curves, secant stiffness, stress distribution, and out-of-plane displacement were obtained and examined. Results indicate that increasing the bending rigidity of the vertical stiffeners and the thickness of the corrugated steel plates, as well as reducing the aspect ratio of the corrugated steel plates, is beneficial for enhancing the load-carrying capacity, stiffness, and energy dissipation capacity of the SCSPSWs. Finally, the transition rigidity ratio μ0,h was proposed to describe the hysteretic performances. When the rigidity ratio is μ = 50, dissipated energy values of the SCSPSW could achieve 95% of the corresponding maximum dissipated energy. In engineering practice, hence, it is recommended to use stiffeners with a rigidity ratio of μ ≥ μ0,h = 50 to ensure desirable energy-dissipating capacity in the SCSPSW.