bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed Sowing under the Same Transplanting Date Shortened the Growth Period of Machine-Transplanted Early-Season Rice with No Significant Yield Reduction Caused
Authors: Fang Xilin , Liu Peng , Wahab Abdul , Wang Yue , Chen Guanghui
Published: October 2023

In early rice cultivation, the age of seedlings plays a crucial role in ensuring the annual safety production of double-cropping rice. When sowing staging and transplanting are performed simultaneously, it is still necessary to gather more data about the effects of seedling age on the growth period and grain yield of early rice machines transplanted. Two years ago, field experiments were conducted on machine-transplanted rice seedlings in the early season to compare the growth duration, crop growth characteristics, and yield attributes between the 18-day-old seedlings (SA18) and 32-day-old seedlings (SA32) of two rice cultivars. As a result of the study, it was found that SA18 reduced the total crop duration by between 11 and 12 days but delayed the maturity date by 2–3 days compared to SA32. SA18 had 14.5% fewer panicles per m2 and 3.6% less harvest index but 7.5% more spikelets per panicle higher than SA32. The grain yield of SA18 was 3.4% less than that of SA32, but there was no significant difference between the two seedling ages. The machine-transplanted seedlings for early rice production are more efficient in reducing seedling management time without affecting harvesting time and yields. The authors provide a new cultivation management scheme for farmers who are interested in planting double-cropping rice at the same time.
Protein Hydrolysates from Crambe abyssinica Seed Cake as Potential Biostimulants for Root Development
Authors: Ugolini Luisa , Malaguti Lorena , Matteo Roberto , Pagnotta Eleonora , Beleggia Romina , Righetti Laura
Published: October 2023

Crambe abyssinica Hochst defatted seed meals were used to produce protein hydrolysates through a mild enzymatic two-step hydrolysis process. The resulting hydrolysates were rich in free amino acids, low-molecular-weight peptides, and potential bioactive compounds such as phenols, glucosinolates, or their derivatives. These hydrolysates were tested in bioassays, performed under controlled conditions, on mung bean (Vigna radiata) cuttings, to investigate a possible auxin effect, and on maize (Zea mays L.) in an aeroponic/hydroponic system during the first two weeks of growth. In both assays, crambe hydrolysates revealed a stimulating effect on root development at a dose corresponding to nitrogen concentration of 4.8 mM, promoting lateral root formation and altering root architecture. Furthermore, they exhibited a positive impact on nitrogen content in both maize roots and shoots, along with an increase in the chlorophyll SPAD index. Notably, the observed effects were similar to those induced by a commercial biostimulant based on an animal-derived hydrolysate, tested under the same conditions on maize. The present work underscores the potential of crambe seed by-products for new sustainable and environmentally safe agro-inputs aimed at enhancing crop performance within the framework of a circular economy.
When Autoantibodies Are Missing: The Challenge of Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Paroli Marino , Sirinian Maria Isabella
Published: October 2023

Seronegative rheumatoid arthritis (SNRA) is characterized by the absence of both rheumatoid factor (RF) and antibodies against the cyclic citrullinated protein (ACPA) in serum. However, the differences between the two forms of RA are more complex and have not yet been definitively characterized. Several lines of evidences support the idea that there are specific elements of the two forms, including genetic background, epidemiology, pathogenesis, severity of progression over time, and response to therapy. Clinical features that may differentiate SNRA from SPRA are also suggested by data obtained from classical radiology and newer imaging techniques. Although new evidence seems to provide additional help in differentiating the two forms of RA, their distinguishing features remain largely elusive. It should also be emphasized that the distinctive features of RA forms, if not properly recognized, can lead to the underdiagnosis of SNRA, potentially missing the period called the “window of opportunity” that is critical for early diagnosis, timely treatment, and better prognosis. This review aims to summarize the data provided in the scientific literature with the goal of helping clinicians diagnose SNRA as accurately as possible, with emphasis on the most recent findings available.
Isoquercitrin from Apocynum venetum L. Exerts Antiaging Effects on Yeasts via Stress Resistance Improvement and Mitophagy Induction through the Sch9/Rim15/Msn Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Yanan , Shen Le , Matsuura Akira , Xiang Lan , Qi Jianhua
Published: October 2023

Background: With the development of an aging sociality, aging-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, are dramatically increasing. To find small molecules from natural products that can prevent the aging of human beings and the occurrence of these diseases, we used the lifespan assay of yeast as a bioassay system to screen an antiaging substance. Isoquercitrin (IQ), an antiaging substance, was isolated from Apocynum venetum L., an herbal tea commonly consumed in Xinjiang, China. Aim of the Study: In the present study, we utilized molecular-biology technology to clarify the mechanism of action of IQ. Methods: The replicative lifespans of K6001 yeasts and the chronological lifespans of YOM36 yeasts were used to screen and confirm the antiaging effect of IQ. Furthermore, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) assay, the survival assay of yeast under stresses, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting analyses, the replicative-lifespan assay of mutants, such as Δsod1, Δsod2, Δgpx, Δcat, Δskn7, Δuth1, Δatg32, Δatg2, and Δrim15 of K6001, autophagy flux analysis, and a lifespan assay of K6001 yeast after giving a mitophagy inhibitor and activator were performed. Results: IQ extended the replicative lifespans of the K6001 yeasts and the chronological lifespans of the YOM36 yeasts. Furthermore, the reactive nitrogen species (RNS) showed no change during the growth phase but significantly decreased in the stationary phase after treatment with IQ. The survival rates of the yeasts under oxidative- and thermal-stress conditions improved upon IQ treatment, and thermal stress was alleviated by the increasing superoxide dismutase (Sod) activity. Additionally, IQ decreased the ROS and MDA of the yeast while increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. However, it could not prolong the replicative lifespans of Δsod1, Δsod2, Δgpx, Δcat, Δskn7, and Δuth1 of K6001. IQ significantly increased autophagy and mitophagy induction, the presence of free green fluorescent protein (GFP) in the cytoplasm, and ubiquitination in the mitochondria of the YOM38 yeasts at the protein level. IQ did not prolong the replicative lifespans of Δatg2 and Δatg32 of K6001. Moreover, IQ treatment led to a decrease in Sch9 at the protein level and an increase in the nuclear translocation of Rim15 and Msn2. Conclusions: These results indicated that the Sch9/Rim15/Msn signaling pathway, as well as antioxidative stress, anti-thermal stress, and autophagy, were involved in the antiaging effects of IQ in the yeasts.
Insights on the Nutraceutical Properties of Different Specialty Teas Grown and Processed in a German Tea Garden
Authors: Carloni Patricia , Girolametti Federico , Giorgini Elisabetta , Bacchetti Tiziana , Truzzi Cristina , Illuminati Silvia , Damiani Elisabetta
Published: October 2023

European countries have recently started experimenting with growing and producing their own teas in small quantities, mainly for the specialty tea sector. To characterize European teas, this study investigated a set of five tea types obtained from different Camellia sinensis varieties/cultivars, representing various oxidation grades (green, white, yellow, oolong, black), all grown and processed in the only tea garden in Europe (in Germany) that focuses on all five types. Hot and cold brews were studied by measuring the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC), the antioxidant capacity and UV-Vis spectra, also with the objective of discriminating between the different tea types and the different plant varieties. The dried leaves were analyzed to measure the content of essential and toxic elements and by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to determine a chemical fingerprint for identifying the tea varieties and types. The average levels of TPC (hot brew = 5.82 ± 2.06; cold brew = 5.4 ± 2.46 mM GAEq), TFC (hot brew = 0.87 ± 0.309; cold brew = 0.87 ± 0.413 mM CAEq), and antioxidant capacity (ORAC assay-hot brew = 20.9 ± 605; cold brew = 21.8 ± 8.0 mM TXEq, ABTS assay-hot brew = 15.2 ± 5.09; cold brew = 15.1 ± 5.8 mM TXEq, FRAP assay-hot brew = 9.2 ± 3.84; cold brew = 10.4 ± 5.23 mM AAEq) observed compared well with those from other parts of the world such as China, Africa, and Taiwan. The hazard quotient <1 and the hazard index of 0.14 indicate that there is no non-carcinogenic risk from consumption of these teas. The obtained information is essential for elucidating the characteristics and the impact of tea processing and tea variety on the health benefits of these tea products coming from a single European tea garden. This multifaceted approach would help tea growers in Europe increase their knowledge on the health attributes of the teas they grow, ultimately leading to optimization of the nutraceutical properties of these teas.
Ascorbate Peroxidase 2 (APX2) of Chlamydomonas Binds Copper and Modulates the Copper Insertion into Plastocyanin
Authors: Caccamo Anna , Vega de Luna Félix , Wahni Khadija , Volkov Alexander N. , Przybyla-Toscano Jonathan , Amelii Antonello , Kriznik Alexandre , Rouhier Nicolas , Messens Joris , Remacle Claire
Published: October 2023

Recent phylogenetic studies have unveiled a novel class of ascorbate peroxidases called “ascorbate peroxidase-related” (APX-R). These enzymes, found in green photosynthetic eukaryotes, lack the amino acids necessary for ascorbate binding. This study focuses on the sole APX-R from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii referred to as ascorbate peroxidase 2 (APX2). We used immunoblotting to locate APX2 within the chloroplasts and in silico analysis to identify key structural motifs, such as the twin-arginine transport (TAT) motif for lumen translocation and the metal-binding MxxM motif. We also successfully expressed recombinant APX2 in Escherichia coli. Our in vitro results showed that the peroxidase activity of APX2 was detected with guaiacol but not with ascorbate as an electron donor. Furthermore, APX2 can bind both copper and heme, as evidenced by spectroscopic, and fluorescence experiments. These findings suggest a potential interaction between APX2 and plastocyanin, the primary copper-containing enzyme within the thylakoid lumen of the chloroplasts. Predictions from structural models and evidence from 1H-NMR experiments suggest a potential interaction between APX2 and plastocyanin, emphasizing the influence of APX2 on the copper-binding abilities of plastocyanin. In summary, our results propose a significant role for APX2 as a regulator in copper transfer to plastocyanin. This study sheds light on the unique properties of APX-R enzymes and their potential contributions to the complex processes of photosynthesis in green algae.
Thiobarbiturate-Derived Compound MHY1025 Alleviates Renal Fibrosis by Modulating Oxidative Stress, Epithelial Inflammation, and Fibroblast Activation
Authors: Kim Jeongwon , Lee Jieun , Yoon Dahye , Son Minjung , Kim Mi-Jeong , Ha Sugyeong , Kim Doyeon , Yoo Ji-an , Kim Donghwan , Chung Hae Young , Moon Hyung Ryong , Chung Ki Wung
Published: October 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a kidney structure and function abnormality. CKD development and progression are strongly influenced by oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which can lead to tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Unfortunately, there are no effective or specific treatments for CKD. We investigated the potential of the thiobarbiturate-derived compound MHY1025 to alleviate CKD by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. In vitro experiments using NRK52E renal tubular epithelial cells revealed that MHY1025 significantly reduced LPS-induced oxidative stress and inhibited the activation of the NF-κB pathway, which is involved in inflammatory responses. Furthermore, treatment with MHY1025 significantly suppressed the expression of fibrosis-related genes and proteins induced by TGFβ in NRK49F fibroblasts. Furthermore, we analyzed the MHY1025 effects in vivo. To induce kidney fibrosis, mice were administered 250 mg/kg folic acid (FA) and orally treated with MHY1025 (0.5 mg/kg/day) for one week. MHY1025 effectively decreased the FA-induced inflammatory response in the kidneys. The group treated with MHY1025 exhibited a significant reduction in cytokine and chemokine expression and decreased immune cell marker expression. Decreased inflammatory response was associated with decreased tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Overall, MHY1025 alleviated renal fibrosis by directly modulating renal epithelial inflammation and fibroblast activation, suggesting that MHY1025 has the potential to be a therapeutic agent for CKD.
Mutual Information Based on Multiple Level Discretization Network Inference from Time Series Gene Expression Profiles
Authors: Anh Cao-Tuan , Kwon Yung-Keun
Published: October 2023

Discovering a genetic regulatory network (GRN) from time series gene expression data plays an essential role in the field of biomedical research. In its development, many methods have been proposed for inferring GRNs. Although most of them are effective, they have limitations in terms of network size and the number of regulatory genes due to high computational cost. Thus, it is necessary to develop an efficient method that can operate with large networks and provide reliable results within an acceptable run time. In this study, we propose a new method using mutual information based on multi-level discretization network inference (MIDNI) from time series gene expression profiles. The proposed method discretizes time series gene expression data to minimize information loss and computational consumption through K-means clustering. We do not fix the number of clusters, instead varying it depending on the distribution of gene expression values. We compared MIDNI with three well-known inference methods through extensive simulations on both artificial and real gene expression datasets. Our results illustrate that MIDNI significantly outperforms the alternatives in terms of dynamic accuracy. The proposed method represents an efficient and scalable tool for inferring GRNs from time series gene expression data.
Effect of Multiple Reclosing Time Intervals on Axial Vibration of Winding
Authors: Sun Lu , Gao Shuguo , Tian Yuan , He Ruidong , Teng Fuyun , Wang Liang , Geng Jianghai , Wang Ping , Wang Xinyu , Zhang Zikang , Zhu Jianhao , Yao Jiaxin , Yao Yufei
Published: October 2023

When a transformer suffers a permanent fault, it will suffer a short-circuit impulse again after reclosing. If the previous vibration of the winding is not attenuated completely and the winding is subjected to a secondary impulse within a short time, the secondary vibration response will have a superposition. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of the anti-short-circuit ability of operational transformers subjected to a secondary short-circuit current impulse. In this paper, a model is established for calculating axial vibration in transformer windings and effects on the vibration response of windings under different closing phase angles and short-circuit intervals are analyzed. The results show that the vibration acceleration of windings is a V-shaped variation at phase angles from 0° to 180°, reaching the maximum values at 0° and 180° and reaching the minimum value at 90°. When the transformer recloses on a permanent short circuit, due to the superposition effect, the vibration acceleration amplitude of the secondary impulse will be greater than that of the primary impulse, but as the reclosing interval increases, the superposition effect decreases continuously. When the interval is 600 ms, the superposition effect for the vibration acceleration of the secondary impulse attenuates to 83.3%. The superposition effect is not significant after 600 ms. The research provides a theoretical reference for transformer closing-control strategies.
Application and Research on Improved Adaptive Monte Carlo Localization Algorithm for Automatic Guided Vehicle Fusion with QR Code Navigation
Authors: Zhang Bowen , Li Shiyun , Qiu Junting , You Gang , Qu Lishuang
Published: October 2023

SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) technology incorporating QR code navigation has been widely used in the mobile robotics industry. However, the particle kidnapping problem, positioning accuracy, and navigation time are still urgent issues to be solved. In this paper, a SLAM fused QR code navigation method is proposed and an improved adaptive Monte Carlo positioning algorithm is used to fuse the QR code information. Firstly, the generation and resampling methods of initialized particle swarms are improved to improve the robustness and weights of the swarms and to avoid the kidnapping problem. Secondly, the Gmapping scan data and the data generated by the improved AMCL algorithm are fused using the extended Kalman filter to improve the accuracy and stability of the state estimation. Finally, in terms of the positioning system, Gmapping is used to obtain QR code data as marker positions on static maps, and the improved adaptive Monte Carlo localization particle positioning algorithm is matched with a library of QR code templates, which corrects for offset distances and achieves precise point-to-point positioning under grey-valued raster maps. The experimental results show that the particles encountered with kidnapping can be quickly adjusted in position, with a 68.73% improvement in adjustment time, 64.27% improvement in navigation and positioning accuracy, and 42.81% reduction in positioning time.
Effects of Varying Planting Patterns on Wheat Aphids’ Occurrence and the Control Effect of Pesticide Reduction Spraying Process by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Gao Haifeng , Shen Yuyang , Chen Li , Lai Hanlin , Yang Hong , Li Guangkuo , Zhao Sifeng , Ge Feng
Published: October 2023

A walnut–wheat intercropping pattern is practiced widely in southern Xinjiang to alleviate the contradiction between the lack of cultivated land resources and to increase economic value. Previous studies have confirmed that an alley cropping pattern could change the microclimate by supplying additional ecological functions such as windbreak, light interception, water conservation, etc. Cereal aphids (including Sitobion avenae, Rhopalosiphum padi, Metopolophium dirhodum, etc.) are commonly spread pests that harm wheat plants. But, the difference in population numbers between local patterns is still unknown. Pesticide reduction is the national strategy in China to alleviate the contraction between the demand of grain yield and environment protection. Plant protection-unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) spraying pesticides are the most efficient method to control pests. However, compared to traditional artificial spraying method, how the UAV spraying method affect the control effect of reduced concentration pesticide is unclear. In order to address this problem, we conducted field investigations at Zepu county in southern Xinjiang to test the difference between walnut–wheat intercropping and wheat monocropping patterns for three consecutive years. And, we employed the field experiments to ensure the effectiveness of the reduced concentration common pesticides through the UAV spraying method. In conclusion, we conducted a comparison of the control effects of two spraying methods under conditions of reduced pesticide usage. Our findings revealed that the population of cereal aphids was larger in the intercropping pattern compared to the monocropping pattern. Although the control effect of the reduced treatment was lower than the regular dosage, some treatments still demonstrated sufficient capability to eliminate aphids, particularly when considering the effect within major varieties. Additionally, the use of the UAV spraying method exhibited a satisfactory effect when compared to the traditional artificial spraying method.
Protein/Protein and Quantum Dot/Protein Organization in Sequential Monolayer Materials Studied Using Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Sławski Jakub , Walczewska-Szewc Katarzyna , Grzyb Joanna
Published: October 2023

Controlled junctions of proteins and nanomaterials offer multiple potential applications in the further construction of nanobiodevices. One of the possible junction types is a set of sequential monolayers of various components deposited on a given substrate. The advantage of such an organization is its high sensitivity, resulting from a huge surface covered by molecules or particles. What is more, the molecules/particles adsorbed on a substrate might be easier to handle than the assay in a cuvette. For further application, there should be crosstalk between monolayers; this is defined by the type of individuals forming a complex system. Here, we are studying, using mainly confocal microscopy and FLIM imaging, crosstalk through resonance energy transfer. The sequential monolayers of fluorescent proteins and CdTe quantum dots were deposited on a convenient substrate, a polyvinylidene difluoride membrane. First, we found that the degree of coverage is lower in the second monolayer. Hence, by manipulating the order of deposition, we obtained a system with a varied yield of resonance energy transfer with a donor excess or an acceptor excess. For a deeper understanding of the energy transfer and its limitations in this system influencing the assay pursuit, we utilized Monte Carlo computation. We found that, indeed, the distance between the monolayers, as well as the degree of coverage, is crucial. With the results of the simulation, we might estimate the relative degree of coverage in our sequential monolayers. We also found that in quantum-dots/protein-composed systems, the yield is stronger than predicted by Monte Carlo simulation. Hence, there should be protein reorientation on the nanoparticle surface, leading to such an effect. Finally, we showed that the yield of resonance energy transfer may be modulated by the external application of poly-L-lysines. These chemicals influenced QD fluorescence but not protein fluorescence and might be used, therefore, as a trigger or a switch in nanobiodevices employing those types of sequential monolayers.
Engagement Recognition Using a Multi-Domain Feature Extraction Method Based on Correlation-Based Common Spatial Patterns
Authors: Xu Guiying , Wang Zhenyu , Xu Tianheng , Zhou Ting , Hu Honglin
Published: October 2023

Engagement ability plays a fundamental role in allocating attentional resources and helps us perform daily tasks efficiently. Therefore, it is of great importance to recognize engagement level. Electroencephalography is frequently employed to recognize engagement for its objective and harmless nature. To fully exploit the information contained in EEG signals, an engagement recognition method integrating multi-domain information is proposed. The proposed method extracts frequency information by a filter bank. In order to utilize spatial information, the correlation-based common spatial patterns method is introduced and extended into three versions by replacing different correlation coefficients. In addition, the Hilbert transform helps to obtain both amplitude and phase information. Finally, features in three domains are combined and fed into a support vector machine to realize engagement recognition. The proposed method is experimentally validated on an open dataset composed of 29 subjects. In the comparison with six existing methods, it achieves the best accuracy of 87.74±5.98% in binary engagement recognition with an improvement of 4.03%, which proves its efficiency in the engagement recognition field.
Datacentric Similarity Matching of Emergent Stigmergic Clustering to Fractional Factorial Vectoring: A Case for Leaner-and-Greener Wastewater Recycling
Authors: Besseris George
Published: October 2023

Water scarcity is a challenging global risk. Urban wastewater treatment technologies, which utilize processes based on single-stage ultrafiltration (UF) or nanofiltration (NF), have the potential to offer lean-and-green cost-effective solutions. Robustifying the effectiveness of water treatment is a complex multidimensional characteristic problem. In this study, a non-linear Taguchi-type orthogonal-array (OA) sampler is enriched with an emergent stigmergic clustering procedure to conduct the screening/optimization of multiple UF/NF aquametric performance metrics. The stochastic solver employs the Databionic swarm intelligence routine to classify the resulting multi-response dataset. Next, a cluster separation measure, the Davies–Bouldin index, is used to evaluate input and output relationships. The self-organized bionic-classifier data-partition appropriateness is matched for signatures between the emergent stigmergic clustering memberships and the OA factorial vector sequences. To illustrate the proposed methodology, recently-published multi-response multifactorial L9(34) OA-planned experiments from two interesting UF-/NF-membrane processes are examined. In the study, seven UF-membrane process characteristics and six NF-membrane process characteristics are tested (1) in relationship to four controlling factors and (2) to synchronously evaluate individual factorial curvatures. The results are compared with other ordinary clustering methods and their performances are discussed. The unsupervised robust bionic prediction reveals that the permeate flux influences both the UF-/NF-membrane process performances. For the UF process and a three-cluster model, the Davies–Bouldin index was minimized at values of 1.89 and 1.27 for the centroid and medoid centrotypes, respectively. For the NF process and a two-cluster model, the Davies–Bouldin index was minimized for both centrotypes at values close to 0.4, which was fairly close to the self-validation value. The advantage of this proposed data-centric engineering scheme relies on its emergent and self-organized clustering capability, which retraces its appropriateness to the fractional factorial rigid structure and, hence, it may become useful for screening and optimizing small-data wastewater operating conditions.
Evaluation of Shear Bond Strength of Resin Cement on the Surface of a Lithium Disilicate Glass-Ceramic Restorative Material after Various Surface Treatments
Authors: Georgiadou Georgia , Kouros Pantelis , Dionysopoulos Dimitrios , Mourouzis Petros , Tolidis Kosmas
Published: October 2023

With bonded restorations gaining rapid popularity in clinical dentistry, manufacturers have introduced a variety of bonding protocols and materials. These materials, including surface modifiers and cleaning agents, are designed to decontaminate surfaces and enhance bonding effectiveness. In this study, six different combinations of mechanical and chemical modifications were tested on a lithium disilicate surface to determine the combination that offers optimal resistance to shear stresses. The tested surface modifications included 9% hydrofluoric acid, sandblasting with 29 μm aluminum oxide (Al2O3) particles, Ivoclean (a recently introduced decontamination agent), Monobond Etch & Prime (a one-stage etching and priming agent for ceramic surfaces), Monobond Plus (a silane agent), and the bonding agent Adhese Universal. Six different sequence combinations were tested and compared to the negative control group. The highest bond strength was achieved using all materials and cleansing methods in a logical order, while the bond strength was lowest in the absence of surface modification (control group). The results indicate a significantly positive influence on bond strength of silane coupling agents present in surface modifiers, including pure forms like Monobond Plus. Potential negative effects of cleansing agents or methods on bond strength were not observed. Multiple and separate stages in the treatment of the lithium disilicate surface positively impact bond strength. Cleansing agents may prove beneficial in clinical conditions, and they do not interfere with bonding.
An Effective Knowledgeable Label-Aware Approach for Sentential Relation Extraction
Authors: Nie Binling , Shao Yiming
Published: October 2023

In recent years, sentential relation extraction has made remarkable progress with text and knowledge graphs (KGs). However, existing architectures ignore the valuable information contained in relationship labels, which KGs provide and can complement the model with additional signals and prior knowledge. To address this limitation, we propose a neural architecture that leverages knowledgeable labels to enhance sentential relation extraction. We name our proposed method knowledge label-aware sensitive relation extraction (KLA-SRE). To achieve this, we combine pre-trained static knowledge graph embeddings with learned semantic embeddings from other tokens to efficiently represent relation labels. By combining static pre-trained graph embeddings with learned word embeddings, we mitigate the inconsistency between predicted relations and given entities. Experimental results on various relation extraction benchmarks in different fields show that knowledge labels improve the F1 score by 1.6% and 1.1% on average over the baseline on standard- and minority-shot benchmarks, respectively.
Power Sources for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: A State-of-the Art
Authors: Saravanakumar Yavinaash Naidu , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Shahar Farah Syazwani , Giernacki Wojciech , Łukaszewicz Andrzej , Nowakowski Marek , Holovatyy Andriy , Stępień Sławomir
Published: October 2023

Over the past few years, there has been an increasing fascination with electric unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) because of their capacity to undertake demanding and perilous missions while also delivering advantages in terms of flexibility, safety, and expenses. These UAVs are revolutionizing various public services, encompassing real-time surveillance, search and rescue operations, wildlife assessments, delivery services, wireless connectivity, and precise farming. To enhance their efficiency and duration, UAVs typically employ a hybrid power system. This system integrates diverse energy sources, such as fuel cells, batteries, solar cells, and supercapacitors. The selection of an appropriate hybrid power arrangement and the implementation of an effective energy management system are crucial for the successful functioning of advanced UAVs. This article specifically concentrates on UAV platforms powered by batteries, incorporating innovative technologies, like in-flight recharging via laser beams and tethering. It provides an all-encompassing and evaluative examination of the current cutting-edge power supply configurations, with the objective of identifying deficiencies, presenting perspectives, and offering recommendations for future consideration in this domain.
Moving towards Personalized Medicine—The Broad Use of Aptamers for Targeted Theranostic
Authors: Sousa André P. , Rocha Ana C. , Almeida Cátia , Carneiro Mariana C. C. G. , Pais Patrick P. , Viana Rejane , Fernandes Rúben , Barata Pedro , Gestoso Álvaro , Ramalho Susana , Martins-Mendes Daniela , Baylina Pilar , Pereira Ana Cláudia
Published: October 2023

Aptamers are short, single-stranded oligonucleotides synthesized in vitro from a randomized oligonucleotide library against a specific target. These molecules are capable of binding to a wide range of biological targets with high specificity and affinity. They present great advantages over antibodies with potential applications in research, diagnosis, and therapeutics. Specifically for tumors with late-stage identification and poor prognosis, like pancreatic cancer, the study of novel aptamers holds tremendous potential for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Along with cancer treatment, aptamers have also shown high potential in regulating the immune response and modulating several critical steps of signaling cascades, such as in immune checkpoints. In the context of microbiota and infection, aptamers are being studied to identify microbes and their metabolites. This assessment has the potential to improve the detection and management of infectious diseases while assisting us in better understanding health risks and treatment outcomes by tracking changes in the microbiota. In this review, the potential of aptamers is explored regarding their applications in cancer, immune, and microbiota therapy.
The Effect of Glass Flour on the Microstructure and Properties of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete: Experimental Studies
Authors: Rutkowska Gabriela , Żółtowski Mariusz , Chyliński Filip , Trach Yuliia , Gortych Elżbieta
Published: October 2023

The introduced limits on carbon dioxide emissions by the European Union encourage experimental work on new-generation materials containing smaller amounts of clinker. Currently, silica fly ash from hard coal combustion is widely used in cement and concrete technology in Europe and Poland. Their wide application is determined mainly by the chemical and phase composition, and in particular by the activity of pozzolanic and its high fineness, like cement. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of glass flour and polypropylene fiber modifiers on the properties of concrete and its microstructure. To analyze the results, samples of reference ordinary concrete and samples with different amounts of glass flour (0–30%) and a constant number of polypropylene fibers (0.025 kg) were used. The obtained test results showed the possibility of producing ordinary concrete with the addition of glass flour. The average compressive strength for concrete containing 10% additive was set at 49.3 MPa, 51.2 MPa, and 53.1 MPa after 28, 56, and 90 days of maturation for a content of 20% of 44.6 MPa, 46.4 MPa, and 48.4 MPa, respectively, and for 30% of 41.5 MPa, 43.8 MPa, and 45.6 MPa, respectively. By modifying concrete with glass flour and polypropylene fibers, a composite resistant to negative temperatures can be obtained. Glass flour shows reactivity with the cement matrix, and in small amounts, it might cause the microstructure to seal and a slight increase in compressive strength.
Bird Detection on Power Transmission Lines Based on Improved YOLOv7
Authors: Jiang Tingyao , Zhao Jian , Wang Min
Published: October 2023

The safety of transmission lines is essential for ensuring the secure and dependable operation of the power grid. However, the harm caused by birds to transmission lines poses a direct threat to their safe operation. The main challenges in detecting birds on lines is that the detected targets are small, densely packed, and susceptible to environmental interference. We introduce a novel dynamic convolutional kernel specifically designed for detecting small and densely packed targets, the ODconv in the backbone of YOLOv7, to capture richer contextual information and improve performance. The substitution of Alpha_GIoU for CIoU in the original YOLOv7 network model serves to refine the loss function, decrease its parameters, and bolster the network’s resilience. The results confirmed that the proposed YOLOv7 with ODConv reached mAP0.5, mAP0.5:0.95, and precision of up to 78.42%, 46.14%, and 73.56% respectively. In contrast to the base model, the enhanced model demonstrated a 2.58% rise in mAP0.5, a 0.72% improvement in mAP0.5:0.95, and an increased precision of 2.34%.
Data-Driven Semi-Empirical Model Approximation Method for Capacity Degradation of Retired Lithium-Ion Battery Considering SOC Range
Authors: Xu Wanwan , Cao Huiying , Lin Xingyu , Shu Fuchun , Du Jialu , Wang Junzhou , Tang Junjie
Published: October 2023

The rapid development of the electric vehicle industry produces large amounts of retired power lithium-ion batteries, thus resulting in the echelon utilization technology of such retired batteries becoming a research hotspot in the field of renewable energy. The relationship between the cycle times and capacity decline of retired batteries performs as a fundamental guideline to determine the echelon utilization. The cycle conditions can influence the characteristics of the degradation of battery capacity; especially neglection of the SOC ranges of batteries leads to a large error in estimating the capacity degradation. Practically, the limited cycle test data of the SOC ranges of the retired battery cannot support a model to comprehensively describe the characteristics of the capacity decline. In this background, based on the limited cycle test data of SOC ranges, this paper studies and establishes a capacity degradation model of retired batteries that considers the factors affecting the battery cycle more comprehensively. In detail, based on the data-driven method and combined with the empirical model of retired battery capacity degradation, three semi-empirical modeling methods of retired battery capacity degradation based on limited test data of SOC ranges are proposed. The feasibility and accuracy of these methods are verified through the experimental data of retired battery cycling, and the conclusions are drawn to illustrate their respective scenarios of applicability.
Mediating the Connection: The Role of Pain in the Relationship between Shoulder Muscle Strength, Joint Position Sense, and Sub-Acromial Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Alfaya Fareed F. , Reddy Ravi Shankar , Alshahrani Mastour Saeed , Alkhamis Batool Abdulelah , Gautam Ajay Prashad , Mukherjee Debjani , Alqhtani Raee S. , Ghulam Hussain Saleh H. , Adal Saeed Al , Jarrar Mohammed A. M. , Sufyan Muhammed
Published: October 2023

Sub-acromial Impingement Syndrome (SIS) is a prevalent shoulder pathology characterized by pain, muscle weakness, and altered joint position sense (JPS). This prospective study aimed to comprehensively assess the relationship between shoulder muscle strength, JPS, and pain in individuals with SIS. A total of 100 participants, including 50 with SIS and 50 healthy controls, underwent shoulder muscle strength testing and JPS evaluation in various directions (flexion, abduction, medial rotation, and lateral rotation). Pain intensity was quantified using a visual analog scale. Correlation analyses were conducted to explore the associations between muscle strength, JPS, and pain, with Cohen’s d values indicating the effect size. Individuals with SIS exhibited significantly lower shoulder muscle strength and greater JPS errors compared to the healthy controls (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.51 to 0.84). The results showed strong positive correlations between muscle strength and JPS in all assessed directions (p < 0.001, with r values ranging from 0.35 to 0.62). Mediation analysis revealed that pain partially mediated the relationship between muscle strength and JPS in all directions (p < 0.005). This study highlights the multifaceted nature of SIS, emphasizing the coexistence of muscle weakness, proprioceptive impairments, and pain. The findings underscore the importance of addressing these factors in the comprehensive rehabilitation of individuals with SIS to optimize functional outcomes and enhance their quality of life.
Excess Lifetime Extropy of Order Statistics
Authors: Shrahili Mansour , Kayid Mohamed
Published: October 2023

This paper explores the concept of residual extropy as an uncertainty measure for order statistics. We specifically derive the residual extropy for the ith-order statistic and establish its relationship with the residual extropy of the ith-order statistic from a random sample generated from a uniform distribution. By employing this approach, we obtain a formula for the residual extropy of order statistics applicable to general continuous distributions. In addition, we offer two lower bounds that can be applied in situations where obtaining closed-form expressions for the residual extropy of order statistics in diverse distributions proves to be challenging. Additionally, we investigate the monotonicity properties of the residual extropy of order statistics. Furthermore, we present other aspects of the residual extropy of order statistics, including its dependence on the position of order statistics and various features of the underlying distribution.
Properties of Various Entropies of Gaussian Distribution and Comparison of Entropies of Fractional Processes
Authors: Malyarenko Anatoliy , Mishura Yuliya , Ralchenko Kostiantyn , Rudyk Yevheniia Anastasiia
Published: October 2023

We consider five types of entropies for Gaussian distribution: Shannon, Rényi, generalized Rényi, Tsallis and Sharma–Mittal entropy, establishing their interrelations and their properties as the functions of parameters. Then, we consider fractional Gaussian processes, namely fractional, subfractional, bifractional, multifractional and tempered fractional Brownian motions, and compare the entropies of one-dimensional distributions of these processes.
Train vs. Play: Evaluating the Effects of Gamified and Non-Gamified Wheelchair Skills Training Using Virtual Reality
Authors: Zorzi Chantal , Tabbaa Luma , Covaci Alexandra , Sirlantzis Konstantinos , Marcelli Gianluca
Published: October 2023

This study compares the influence of a gamified and a non-gamified virtual reality (VR) environment on wheelchair skills training. In specific, the study explores the integration of gamification elements and their influence on wheelchair driving performance in VR-based training. Twenty-two non-disabled participants volunteered for the study, of whom eleven undertook the gamified VR training, and eleven engaged in the non-gamified VR training. To measure the efficacy of the VR-based wheelchair skills training, we captured the heart rate (HR), number of joystick movements, completion time, and number of collisions. In addition, an adapted version of the Wheelchair Skills Training Program Questionnaire (WSTP-Q), the Igroup Presence Questionnaire (IPQ), and the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) questionnaires were administered after the VR training. The results showed no differences in wheelchair driving performance, the level of involvement, or the ratings of presence between the two environments. In contrast, the perceived cybersickness was statistically higher for the group of participants who trained in the non-gamified VR environment. Remarkably, heightened cybersickness symptoms aligned with increased HR, suggesting physiological connections. As such, while direct gamification effects on the efficacy of VR-based wheelchair skills training were not statistically significant, its potential to amplify user engagement and reduce cybersickness is evident.
Dietary Artemisia Ordosica Polysaccharide Enhances Spleen and Intestinal Immune Response of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Du Haidong , Xing Yuanyuan , Xu Yuanqing , Jin Xiao , Yan Sumei , Shi Binlin
Published: October 2023

The spleen and small intestines are the primary immune organs that provide important immunity against various diseases. Artemisia ordosica polysaccharide (AOP) could be used as an immunologic enhancer to boost immunity in response to infection. This study was performed to explore the effects of the dietary supplementation of AOP on the growth performance and spleen and small intestine immune function in broilers. A total of 288 AA broilers (1 day old) were randomly assigned into six dietary groups. Each group included six replicates of eight broilers per cage. The broilers were fed with a basal diet supplemented with 0 mg/kg (CON), 50 mg/kg chlortetracycline (CTC), 250, 500, 750, and 1000 mg/kg AOP for 42 d. The results showed that dietary AOP supplementation affected broiler growth performance, with 750 and 1000 mg/kg of AOP being able to significantly improve broiler BWG, and 750 mg/kg of AOP was able to significantly reduce the FCR. The dietary AOP supplementation increased the levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-1β, IL-2, and IL-4 in the spleen and small intestine in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, we found that AOP can promote the mRNA expression of TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB signaling-pathway-related factors (TLR4, MyD88, P38 MAPK, JNK, NF-κB p50, and IL-1β). In addition, the dietary supplementation of 750 mg/kg AOP provides better immunity in the tissue than the CON group but showed no significant difference from the CTC group. Therefore, AOP has an immunoregulatory action and can modulate the immune function of broilers via the TLR4/ NF-ΚB/MAPK signal pathway. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 750 mg/kg AOP may be alternatives to antibiotics for enhancing broilers’ health, immunity, and growth performance.
Comparative Efficacy of Metformin and Glimepiride in Modulating Pharmacological Network to Increase BDNF Levels and Benefit Type 2 Diabetes-Related Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Anirudhan Athira , Ahmad Sheikh F. , Emran Talha Bin , Angulo-Bejarano Paola Isabel , Sharma Ashutosh , Ahmed Shiek S. S. J.
Published: October 2023

Cognitive impairment is anotable complication of type 2 diabetes (T2DM), accompanied by reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain and blood. Anti-diabetic drugs reduce hyperglycemia, yet their effect on cognitive improvement is unknown. We aimed to investigate the effect of anti-diabetic drugs regulating BDNF in T2DM through computational and case-control study design. We obtained T2DMproteins viatext-mining to construct a T2DMprotein network. From the T2DMnetwork, the metformin and glimepiride interactomes and their crucial shortest-path-stimulating BDNF were identified. Using qRTPCR, the genes encoding the shortest-path proteins were assessed in four groups (untreated-T2DM, metformin-treated, glimepiride-treated, and healthy controls). Finally, ELISA was used to assess serum BDNF levels to validate drug efficacy. As a result of this investigation, aT2DMnetwork was constructed with 3683 text-mined proteins. Then, the T2DMnetwork was explored to generate a metformin and glimepiride interactome that establishes the critical shortest-path for BDNF stimulation. Metformin stimulates BDNF via APP binding to the PRKAB1 receptor. Whereas, glimepiride increases BDNF by binding to KCNJ11 via AP2M1 and ESR1 proteins. Both drug shortest-path encoding genes differed significantly between the groups. Unlike metformin, BDNF gene and protein expression rise significantly with glimepiride. Overall, glimepiride can effectively increase BDNF, which could benefit T2DM patients with cognitive deterioration.
Iron Bioavailability in the Extracellular Environment Is More Relevant Than the Intracellular One in Viability and Gene Expression: A Lesson from Oligodendroglioma Cells
Authors: Braidotti Stefania , Curci Debora , Zampieri Daniele , Covino Cesare , Zanon Davide , Maximova Natalia , Sala Roberto
Published: October 2023

Oligodendroglioma (OG) is a brain tumor that contributes to <1% of brain tumor diagnoses in the pediatric population. Unfortunately, pediatric OG remains without definitive molecular characteristics to aid in diagnosis, and little is known about the tumor microenvironment. Tumor cells’ metabolism and proliferation rate are generally higher than those of healthy cells, so their iron demand is also significantly higher. This consideration underlines the great importance of iron for tumor development and progression. In this context, this study aims to evaluate the effect of iron in a cellular in vitro model of human oligodendroglioma brain tumor. Cell morphology, the effect of siderotic medium on cell growth, iron uptake, and the expression of iron-metabolism-related genes were evaluated via optic microscopy, ICP-MS, confocal microscopy, and real-time PCR, respectively. This study underlines the great importance of iron for tumor development and progression and also the possibility of reducing the available iron concentration to determine an antiproliferative effect on OG. Therefore, every attempt can be promising to defeat OG for which there are currently no long-term curative therapies.