bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EEDD: Edge-Guided Energy-Based PCB Defect Detection
Authors: Deng Shuixin , Deng Lei , Sun Ting , Yu Shijie , Wang Li , Chen Baohua , Hu Hao , Xie Yusen , Yin Hanxi , Xiao Junwei , Cui Xinglong , Fu Yeyu , Tang Xuewei , Song Ruirui , Li Lin , Xiao Shanpeng , Li Yuan , Li Yizheng
Published: May 2023

Printed circuit board (PCB) defect detection is critical for ensuring the safety of electronic devices, especially in the space industry. Non-reference-based methods, typically the deep learning methods, suffer from a large amount of annotated data requirements and poor interpretability. In contrast, conventional reference-based methods achieve higher detection accuracy by comparing with a template image but rely on precise image alignment and face the challenge of fine defects detection. To solve the problem, we propose a novel Edge-guided Energy-based PCB Defect Detection method (EEDD). We focus on the salient edge characteristic of PCB images and regard the functional defects as contour differences and then propose a novel energy measurement method for PCB contour anomaly detection. We introduce the energy transformation using the edge information of the template and test image, then Speeded-Up Robust Features method (SURF) is used for image alignment, and finally achieve defect detection by measuring the energy anomaly score pixel by pixel with the proposed energy-based defect localization and contour flood fill methods. Our method excels in detecting multi-scale defects, particularly tiny defects, and is robust against interferences such as non-finely aligned images and edge spurs. Experiments on the DeepPCB-A dataset and our high-resolution PCB dataset (HDPCB) show that the proposed method outperforms state-of-the-art methods in PCB defect-detection tasks.
Frequency-Reconfigurable Microstrip Patch Antenna Based on Graphene Film
Authors: Wang Xinhai , Wu Liqiong , Chen Hua , Wang Wei , Liu Zhaoping
Published: May 2023

Fifth-generation mobile communication systems must connect to multiple wireless networks. In order to enable a single device to match the frequency bands of multiple wireless networks, it is usually necessary to use multiple single-band or multi-band antennas, which occupy a large amount of space inside a given device. Using frequency-reconfigurable antennas to replace multiple single-function antennas is an effective way to solve this problem. In this paper, we propose a frequency-reconfigurable microstrip patch antenna based on graphene film, which fills the slot of the radiating patch with graphene film. It was found that the surface current of the antenna can be changed by changing the conductivity of graphene through bias voltage, which allows the operating mode of the antenna to switch between a nearly slotted antenna and a nearly unslotted antenna to achieve frequency reconfigurability. By changing the bias voltage from 0 V to 9 V, the resonant frequency of the antenna can be switched from 29.6 GHz to 40 GHz, and the center frequency can by altered by 10.4 GHz, corresponding to the reflection coefficients of −26 dB and −20.8 dB, respectively. The antenna achieves good matching in both operating modes.
Zero-Shot Learning with Joint Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Zhang Minwan , Wang Xiaohua , Shi Yueting , Ren Shiwei , Wang Weijiang
Published: May 2023

Zero-shot learning (ZSL) is implemented by transferring knowledge from seen classes to unseen classes through embedding space or feature generation. However, the embedding-based method has a hubness problem, and the generation-based method may contain considerable bias. To solve these problems, a joint model with multiple generative adversarial networks (JG-ZSL) is proposed in this paper. Firstly, we combined the generation-based model and the embedding-based model to build a hybrid ZSL framework by mapping the real samples and the synthetic samples into the embedding space for classification, which alleviates the problem of data imbalance effectively. Secondly, based on the original generation-method model, a coupled GAN is introduced to generate semantic embeddings, which can generate semantic vectors for unseen classes in embedded space to alleviate the bias of mapping results. Finally, semantic-relevant self-adaptive margin center loss was used, which can explicitly encourage intra-class compactness and inter-class separability, and it can also guide coupled GAN to generate discriminative and representative semantic features. All the experiments on the four standard datasets (CUB, AWA1, AWA2, SUN) show that the proposed method is effective.
Intelligent Identification Method of Shearer Drums Based on Improved YOLOv5s with Dark Channel-Guided Filtering Defogging
Authors: Mao Qinghua , Wang Menghan , Hu Xin , Xue Xusheng , Zhai Jiao
Published: May 2023

In a fully mechanized mining face, there is interference between the hydraulic support face guard and the shearer drum. The two collisions seriously affect coal mine production and personnel safety. The identification of a shearer drum can be affected by fog generated when the shearer drum cuts forward. It is hydraulic support face guard recovery, not the timely block shearer drum, that will also affect the recognition of the shearer drum. Aiming at the above problems, a shearer drum identification method based on improved YOLOv5s with dark channel-guided filtering defogging is proposed. Aiming at the problem of fog interference affecting recognition, the defogging method for dark channel guided filtering is proposed. The optimal value of the scene transmittance function is calculated using guided filtering to achieve a reasonable defogging effect. The Coordinate Attention (CA) mechanism is adopted to improve the backbone network of the YOLOv5s algorithm. The shearer drum features extracted by the C3 module are reallocated by the attention mechanism to the weights of each space and channel. The information propagation of a shearer drum’s features is enhanced by such improvements. Thus, the detection of shearer drum targets in complex backgrounds is improved. S Intersection over Union (SIoU) is used as a loss function to improve the speed and accuracy of the shearer drum. To verify the effectiveness of the improved algorithm, multiple and improved target detection algorithms are compared. The algorithm is deployed at Huangling II mine. The experimental results present that the improved algorithm is superior to most target detection algorithms. In the absence of object obstruction, the improved algorithm achieved 89.3% recognition accuracy and a detection speed of 48.8 frame/s for the shearer drum in the Huangling II mine. The improved YOLOv5s algorithm provides a basis for identifying interference states between the hydraulic support face guard and shearer drum.
Design Aspects of Conical Coaxial Magnetic Gears
Authors: Mateev Valentin , Todorova Miglenna , Marinova Iliana
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a new design of a conical coaxial magnetic gear was proposed. Conical magnetic gears are considered a logical link between the radial- and axial-field coaxial designs. The modeling of magnetic torques based on the 3D finite element method was developed. The design parameter variations of the conical coaxial magnetic gear were determined and discussed. The magnetic torque density was calculated and compared with that of a cylindrical coaxial magnetic gear with the same size and materials used. An optimal cone angle based on the air-gap length was proposed. Multistage conical coaxial magnetic gears were proposed as a sequence of coupled rotors with increased torque density and reduced magnetic reluctance. The proposed conical coaxial magnetic gears are more compact in size and suitable for integration with electrical machines and variable transmissions.
Dielectric Properties and Fire Safety of Mineral Oil and Low-Viscosity Natural Ester Mixtures in Various Concentrations
Authors: Dombek Grzegorz , Gielniak Jarosław
Published: May 2023

This paper presents the results of testing the electrical and fire properties of mineral oil and low-viscosity natural ester mixtures. Properties such as breakdown voltage, relative permeability, dispersion coefficient, conductivity, flash and burn point, and lower heating values were investigated in different concentrations of mixtures of the two liquids, as well as for the base liquids. To ensure equal humidity levels, the prepared samples of mixtures and base liquids were conditioned under identical climatic conditions, resulting in samples with similar relative humidity (9 ± 3)%. The obtained measurement results for mixtures of the two fluids were related to the values obtained for the base liquids and analyzed in terms of changes in electrical properties and fire safety when used as insulating liquids in transformers. The presented results are useful for supplementing knowledge on the possibilities of using dielectric liquid mixtures in high-voltage power devices, with to the aim of using mixtures as alternatives to mineral oil.
Simulation Analysis of High Radiant Heat Plant Cooling and Endothermic Screen Waste Heat Recovery Performance Based on FLUENT
Authors: Wang Haitao , Zhai Jianfeng
Published: May 2023

In this article, we propose the endothermic screen model. The aim is to reduce the problems of the high temperature and low utilization of waste heat in industrial plants with high radiant heat. In this paper, the Rhino software is used to establish the model and import it into the FLUENT software, divide the mesh, set the boundary conditions and analyze the transient temperature field. Finally, the temperature change law in the plant and the waste heat recovery efficiency of the endothermic screen are obtained. The flow of cooling water in the endothermic screen is used to transform and transfer the high-radiation heat inside the plant to the outside. The simulation results show that after adding the endothermic screen, the average indoor temperature drops from 313.33 K to 305.66 K, which has a cooling effect. The waste heat recovery efficiency reaches up to 56%, and the waste heat recovery effect is obvious. The research results can provide a reference for the application of an endothermic screen in actual high radiant heat plants and provide a more comfortable working environment for the plant workers.
Performance and Economic Analysis of Designed Different Solar Tracking Systems for Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Demirdelen Tuğçe , Alıcı Hakan , Esenboğa Burak , Güldürek Manolya
Published: May 2023

Solar power occupies a significant position among global renewable energy sources due to its abundant energy potential. Consequently, its contribution to electricity generation is steadily increasing. However, obtaining peak efficiency from fixed solar photovoltaic (PV) panels is a formidable task due to their limited ability to consistently tap into solar energy. To tackle this issue and mitigate energy efficiency losses, the utilization of solar tracking systems has emerged as an exceptionally effective solution. These systems enable continuous adjustment of the panels’ position to align with the sun’s trajectory, optimizing energy absorption and enhancing overall performance. This paper presents the performance and cost analysis of three distinct solar panel tracking systems, namely, a fixed system, a single-axis system, and a dual-axis system. The systems are operated under identical coordinates and conditions. The production data are collected over a period of 15 days for comparative analysis. The tracking movements of the systems are controlled using Arduino. The mechanical components are specifically designed for the establishment of each system. The findings of this study indicate that both single-axis and dual-axis solar tracking systems outperformed fixed systems in terms of power generation. The single-axis system demonstrated a 24.367% increase in power production, while the dual-axis system showed a 32.247% increase compared to the fixed system. Moreover, a cost analysis was carried out considering the installation expenses and power production data of the three systems. It was determined that the single-axis tracking system achieved payback in 0.39 years less compared to the fixed system, while the dual-axis system achieved payback in 1.48 years less compared to the fixed system. Overall, this study underscores the advantages of implementing solar tracking systems, particularly in the single-axis and dual-axis configurations, as they contribute to higher power generation and cost-effectiveness compared to fixed systems.
External Environmental Costs of Solid Biomass Production against the Legal and Political Background in Europe
Authors: Olba-Zięty Ewelina , Zięty Jakub Jan , Stolarski Mariusz Jerzy
Published: May 2023

Over the years, the generation of energy from renewable sources (RES) has gained importance because of a number of reasons. One of the most powerful arguments in favor of the development of RES is the deteriorating natural environment, and consequently worse human health, due to energy generation from fossil fuels. The extent of this impact can be determined by identifying external costs. In a circular economy, the estimation of external costs attracts much attention in both the literature and practice. The aim of this article was to review and analyze the latest literature (2018–2022) covering the external environmental costs of solid biomass production for energy purposes in the context of the political, legal and methodological debate concerning the production of energy from biomass, and to make an effort to estimate the external costs of producing energy from solid biomass grown for energy purposes. The methods used in the article were as follows: a comparative analysis of the collected references; a dogmatic analysis of the contents; a meta-analysis of results published in the literature; and an analysis of frequency occurrence and co-occurrence of the key words. The average external environmental costs of the production of biomass for energy purposes were calculated at 20.35 EUR Mg−1 d.m. with a 95% confidence range of 13.86–26.85 EUR Mg −1 d.m. (adjusted to EUR 2021). These values were estimated from the meta-analysis, which was statistically significant despite a rather small sample of studies submitted to the analysis. The European Union (EU) policy and the law passed under this policy over the past 15 years have supported and stimulated the development of renewable energy resources. The political and legal situation arising after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the energy crisis has forced decision-makers to revise the previously developed assumptions, although reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Europe and achieving climate neutrality remain important targets. It is also crucial to make Europe independent from Russian fossil fuels, for example by accelerating activities aiming to raise the production of renewable energy. In this context, the production of solid biomass for energy purposes gains importance, especially since it can be produced locally and become an important contributor to national energy security. Hence, the external costs of the production of biomass and energy from sources other than fossil fuels should be analyzed. Such analyses are significant because they show the actual costs of renewable energy production, including its profitability and competitiveness in relation to fossil fuels.
Applying Energy Taxes to Promote a Clean, Sustainable and Secure Energy System: Finding the Preferable Approaches
Authors: Kuzior Aleksandra , Samusevych Yaryna , Lyeonov Serhiy , Krawczyk Dariusz , Grytsyshen Dymytrii
Published: May 2023

The growing importance of climate change and the depletion of natural resources, as well as geopolitical risks associated with the distribution of energy resources, cause an increase in the urgency of ensuring energy security. In modern conditions, the criteria of energy security are the level of production of traditional and renewable energy, the efficiency of energy production, the rationality of its consumption, and the level of pollution arising in the process of the functioning of the energy sector. Different types of regulatory instruments are used internationally to achieve different goals related to energy security. This study involves testing the hypothesis that the effectiveness of energy taxes in ensuring energy security is determined based on the choice of the object of taxation and should be measured via the complex effect of changes in various parameters of energy security. To test this hypothesis, a sample of data from 24 European countries for the period 1994–2020 was formed and energy taxes were grouped into 12 groups (energy taxes on the consumption of different energy sources, energy taxes on fossil fuels, taxes on electricity consumption, taxes to stimulate renewable energy production, contributions to energy funds, etc.). The assessment was carried out with the help of panel regression modeling tools with the installation of a three-year time lag in the model. This method made it possible to determine the short- and medium-term effects of the regulatory influence of certain types of energy taxes. Moreover, the research provides an assessment of the regulatory effectiveness of various types of energy taxes across countries with different initial structures of energy production. The obtained results proved that the comprehensive efficiency of different types of energy taxes is different and depends on the features of the construction of the country’s energy system. In general, complex energy taxes are the most effective method of taxation, while contributions to energy funds are the least effective method of taxation. In the countries with energy systems based on fossil fuels, taxes on mineral oils are the most effective in ensuring of energy security, as well as in the countries with a high initial level of renewable energy use, while complex energy taxes are the most effective in the countries with well-diversified energy systems. This study creates the basis for improving strategies for the use of regulatory instruments of energy transformation in building a clean, secure, and sustainable energy system for the country.
Design and Control of a Three-Axis Motion Servo Control System Based on a CAN Bus
Authors: Wei Ming-Yen
Published: May 2023

The paper presents a DSP-based design and control of a three-axis servo motion system that effectively divides control tasks between the master control terminal and four slave drives. The proposed architecture enhances the immediacy of platform positioning and the integration between software and hardware. The paper utilizes a high-accuracy encoder as a reference value for accuracy improvement and integrates firmware via the proposed embedded execution program, thereby reducing the accuracy error of the low-accuracy encoder. The main control core employs a digital signal processor (DSP) for input and output signal reading and writing, digital communication interface processing, and user interface. The slave controller utilizes four digital signal processors to accomplish servo position control in a digital way. The paper employs encoder calibration technology to upgrade the positioning accuracy of the surge axis. Finally, the paper validates the correctness and feasibility of the proposed method through experimental results from a set of adjustable experimental platforms of linear motion stroke and rotary motion stroke. In summary, the paper underscores the integration of hardware and software to attain high-precision and dependable control of the motion system.
Legacy of Prior Management of Cropland after Afforestation with Populus x euroamericana (Dode) Guinier: Effects on Soil Respiration
Authors: Priano María Eugenia , Zorita Félix , Trasar-Cepeda Carmen
Published: May 2023

Afforestation is a good strategy for climate change mitigation through increasing carbon stocks. This study determined changes in soil respiration (SR) brought about by the afforestation of high quality agricultural land in a temperate-humid region (Galicia, NW Spain), identified the variables that explain the observed changes and determined the main factors regulating SR temporal variation. Paired plots of fertile soils (cropped vs. afforested plots) were established in two similar areas (Pontevea and Laraño) where afforestation with Populus x euroamericana (Dode) Guinier was carried out in the same year. Different management practices and crop rotations were used (maize–pasture, Laraño and maize–fallow, Pontevea). The SR was measured in situ with a CO2 static chamber every 15 days (every month in winter) for 16 months; soil temperature (Ts) and soil moisture content (W) were also measured. In both areas, significant differences (p < 0.05) in SR between paired plots were related to soil organic C content and SR was mainly influenced by Ts, except during the summer period where SR fluctuations were accompanied by W fluctuations. These findings show that growing pasture crops on high quality land can prevent the loss of soil N and C and probably improve the greenhouse gas balance in the system.
Tree Species Identification in Urban Environments Using TensorFlow Lite and a Transfer Learning Approach
Authors: Pacheco-Prado Diego , Bravo-López Esteban , Ruiz Luis Ángel
Published: May 2023

Building and updating tree inventories is a challenging task for city administrators, requiring significant costs and the expertise of tree identification specialists. In Ecuador, only the Trees Inventory of Cuenca (TIC) contains this information, geolocated and integrated with the taxonomy, origin, leaf, and crown structure, phenological problems, and tree images taken with smartphones of each tree. From this dataset, we selected the fourteen classes with the most information and used the images to train a model, using a Transfer Learning approach, that could be deployed on mobile devices. Our results showed that the model based on ResNet V2 101 performed best, achieving an accuracy of 0.83 and kappa of 0.81 using the TensorFlow Lite interpreter, performing better results using the original model, with an accuracy and kappa of 0.912 and 0.905, respectively. The classes with the best performance were Ramo de novia, Sauce, and Cepillo blanco, which had the highest values of Precision, Recall, and F1-Score. The classes Eucalipto, Capuli, and Urapan were the most difficult to classify. Our study provides a model that can be deployed on Android smartphones, being the beginning of future implementations.
Forest Land Expectation Value or Maximum Sustained Yield? Resolving A Long-Standing Paradox
Authors: Loehle Craig
Published: May 2023

The Faustmann formula, equivalent to the land expectation value (LEV), yields the present value, starting with bare land, of an infinite series of future timber rotations for a stand. If this formula is used to find the rotation age that maximizes the present value, a lower annual harvest will result when compared to a maximum sustained yield (MSY) regime for an ownership with many stands. However, the LEV is strongly preferred by economists. This is the LEV vs. rents paradox. Herein, this paper demonstrates that an infinite series of annual harvests for an ownership under an even flow regime, discounted to the present using any interest rate, will provide the same optimal rotation age as the time of the peak MAI for a single stand, though with different estimates for the profitability, depending on the interest rate. Thus, rotations producing the MSY and the maximum financial return are identical when analyzed at the ownership scale but are not the same when based on the analysis at the stand scale using the Faustmann formula (LEV). This is the solution to the paradox. The formulas for internal rate of return (IRR) and the land valuation for transaction purposes are also presented.
Regulatory Effects of FGF9 on Dermal Papilla Cell Proliferation in Small-Tailed Han Sheep
Authors: Jia Qi , Zhang Shuangshuang , Wang Dan , Liu Jianqiang , Luo Xinhui , Liu Yu , Li Xin , Sun Fuliang , Xia Guangjun , Zhang Lichun
Published: May 2023

Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) is crucial for the growth and development of hair follicles (HFs); however, its role in sheep wool growth is unknown. Here, we clarified the role of FGF9 in HF growth in the small-tailed Han sheep by quantifying FGF9 expression in skin tissue sections collected at different periods. Moreover, we evaluated the effects of FGF9 protein supplementation on hair shaft growth in vitro and FGF9 knockdown on cultured dermal papilla cells (DPCs). The relationship between FGF9 and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was examined, and the underlying mechanisms of FGF9-mediated DPC proliferation were investigated. The results show that FGF9 expression varies throughout the HF cycle and participates in wool growth. The proliferation rate and cell cycle of FGF9-treated DPCs substantially increase compared to that of the control group, and the mRNA and protein expression of CTNNB1, a Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway marker gene, is considerably lower than that in the control group. The opposite occurs in FGF9-knockdown DPCs. Moreover, other signaling pathways are enriched in the FGF9-treated group. In conclusion, FGF9 accelerates the proliferation and cell cycle of DPCs and may regulate HF growth and development through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Molecular Survey of Rodent-Borne Infectious Agents in the Ferlo Region, Senegal
Authors: Mangombi-Pambou Joa Braïthe , Granjon Laurent , Flirden Fabien , Kane Mamadou , Niang Youssoupha , Davoust Bernard , Fenollar Florence , Mediannikov Oleg
Published: May 2023

Zoonotic pathogens are responsible for most infectious diseases in humans, with rodents being important reservoir hosts for many of these microorganisms. Rodents, thus, pose a significant threat to public health. Previous studies in Senegal have shown that rodents harbour a diversity of microorganisms, including human pathogens. Our study aimed to monitor the prevalence of infectious agents in outdoor rodents, which can be the cause of epidemics. We screened 125 rodents (both native and expanding) from the Ferlo region, around Widou Thiengoly, for different microorganisms. Analysis, performed on rodent spleens, detected bacteria from the Anaplasmataceae family (20%), Borrelia spp. (10%), Bartonella spp. (24%) and Piroplasmida (2.4%). Prevalences were similar between native and the expanding (Gerbillus nigeriae) species, which has recently colonised the region. We identified Borrelia crocidurae, the agent responsible for tick-borne relapsing fever, which is endemic in Senegal. We also identified two other not-yet-described bacteria of the genera Bartonella and Ehrlichia that were previously reported in Senegalese rodents. Additionally, we found a potential new species, provisionally referred to here as Candidatus Anaplasma ferloense. This study highlights the diversity of infectious agents circulating in rodent populations and the importance of describing potential new species and evaluating their pathogenicity and zoonotic potential.
Biallelic Variants in Seven Different Genes Associated with Clinically Suspected Bardet–Biedl Syndrome
Authors: Nawaz Hamed , Mujahid  , Khan Sher Alam , Bibi Farhana , Waqas Ahmed , Bari Abdul , Fardous  , Khan Niamatullah , Muhammad Nazif , Khan Amjad , Paracha Sohail Aziz , Alam Qamre , Kamal Mohammad Azhar , Rafeeq Misbahuddin M. , Muhammad Noor , Haq Fayaz Ul , Khan Shazia , Mahmood Arif , Khan Saadullah , Umair Muhammad
Published: May 2023

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare clinically and genetically heterogeneous autosomal recessive multi-systemic disorder with 22 known genes. The primary clinical and diagnostic features include six different hallmarks, such as rod–cone dystrophy, learning difficulties, renal abnormalities, male hypogonadism, post-axial polydactyly, and obesity. Here, we report nine consanguineous families and a non-consanguineous family with several affected individuals presenting typical clinical features of BBS. In the present study, 10 BBS Pakistani families were subjected to whole exome sequencing (WES), which revealed novel/recurrent gene variants, including a homozygous nonsense mutation (c.94C>T; p.Gln32Ter) in the IFT27 (NM_006860.5) gene in family A, a homozygous nonsense mutation (c.160A>T; p.Lys54Ter) in the BBIP1 (NM_001195306.1) gene in family B, a homozygous nonsense variant (c.720C>A; p.Cys240Ter) in the WDPCP (NM_015910.7) in family C, a homozygous nonsense variant (c.505A>T; p.Lys169Ter) in the LZTFL1 (NM_020347.4) in family D, pathogenic homozygous 1 bp deletion (c.775delA; p.Thr259Leufs*21) in the MKKS/BBS5 (NM_170784.3) gene in family E, a pathogenic homozygous missense variant (c.1339G>A; p.Ala447Thr) in BBS1 (NM_024649.4) in families F and G, a pathogenic homozygous donor splice site variant (c.951+1G>A; p?) in BBS1 (NM_024649.4) in family H, a pathogenic bi-allelic nonsense variant in MKKS (NM_170784.3) (c.119C>G; p.Ser40*) in family I, and homozygous pathogenic frameshift variants (c.196delA; p.Arg66Glufs*12) in BBS5 (NM_152384.3) in family J. Our findings extend the mutation and phenotypic spectrum of four different types of ciliopathies causing BBS and also support the importance of these genes in the development of multi-systemic human genetic disorders.
Optimal Setting of Earthquake-Related Ionospheric TEC (Total Electron Content) Anomalies Detection Methods: Long-Term Validation over the Italian Region
Authors: Colonna Roberto , Filizzola Carolina , Genzano Nicola , Lisi Mariano , Tramutoli Valerio
Published: May 2023

Over the last decade, thanks to the availability of historical satellite observations that have begun to be significantly large and thanks to the exponential growth of artificial intelligence techniques, many advances have been made in the detection of geophysical parameters such as seismic-related anomalies. In this study, the variations of the ionospheric Total Electron Content (TEC), one of the main parameters historically proposed as a seismic-connected indicator, are analyzed. To make a statistically robust analysis of the complex phenomena involved, we propose a completely innovative machine-learning approach developed in the R programming language. Through this approach, an optimal setting of the multitude of methodological inputs currently proposed for the detection of ionospheric anomalies is performed. The setting is optimized by analyzing, for the first time, multi-year—mostly twenty-year—time series of TEC satellite data measured by global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) over the Italian region, matched with the corresponding multi-year time series of seismic events. Seismic events including all the countries of the Mediterranean area, up to Turkey, are involved in the analysis. Tens of thousands of possible combinations of input methodological parameters are simulated and classified according to pre-established criteria. Several inputs examined return clear results. These results combined with each other highlight the presence of anomalous seismic-related sequences that have an extremely low probability of having been detected randomly (up to 2 out of 1 million). The anomalies identified represent the most anomalous behaviors of the TEC recorded during the entire period under investigation (e.g., 20 years). Some of the main conclusions are that, at mid-latitudes, ① the detection of seismic-TEC anomalies can be more efficient looking for punctual rather than persistent phenomena; ② the optimal thresholds for the identification of co-seismic anomalies can assume different values depending on type of anomaly (positive or negative) and type of observation; ③ single GNSS receiver data can be useful for capturing local earthquake-ionospheric effects and Global Ionospheric Maps (GIM) data can be functional in detecting large-scale earthquake-ionospheric effects; ④ earthquakes deeper than 50 km are less likely to affect the ionosphere.
Effects of Hormonal Profile, Weight, and Body Image on Sexual Function in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Daescu Ana-Maria Cristina , Dehelean Liana , Navolan Dan-Bogdan , Gaitoane Alexandru-Ioan , Daescu Andrei , Stoian Dana
Published: May 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hyperandrogenic endocrinological disorder associated with chronic oligo-anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology. Compared to women without PCOS, women with PCOS have a risk of sexual dysfunction that is more than 30% higher. Although alterations in sex hormones and psychosocial wellbeing have been proposed, the precise mechanisms of FSD in PCOS remain unclear. The aim of our study was to analyze how the hormonal, clinical and psychometric parameters of PCOS patients are involved in the development of sexual dysfunction. The study group consisted of 54 women, aged between 21 and 32 years, diagnosed with PCOS. We collected the following parameters: age, body mass index (BMI), the Ferriman–Gallwey score (FG), maximum duration of oligomenorrhea, abdominal circumference (AC), free testosterone value (FT), luteinizing hormone/follicle stimulating hormone (LH/FSH) ratio value, serum cortisol value and ovarian ultrasound appearance. At the time of the examination, patients were asked to fill in the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Body Exposure during Sexual Activities Questionnaire (BESAQ). Statistically significant differences were observed between normal weight and overweight women regarding BESAQ (p-value = 0.02) and FSFI total (p-value <0.001). Elevated BMI, AC or BESAQ scores correlated with a lower FSFI score. The most involved domains of the scale were orgasm, arousal, and desire. Elevated BESAQ scores increase the risk of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) by 4.24 times. FT, BESAQ score, BMI, and LH/FSH ratio were found to independently predict FSD. The cutoff point for the BESAQ score in detecting FSD was found to be 1.97. Weight, body image and anxiety related to sexual activities seem to be significant components in the development of sexual dysfunction in PCOS patients, beyond the effect due to hyperandrogenism. FT value has a U-shape effect in sexual dysfunction, because both in the case of deficit and in the case of excess, sexual function is impaired. BESAQ is a strong predictor for sexual dysfunction in women with PCOS, along with FT value, LH/FSH ratio and BMI.
Photosynthesis, Biochemical and Yield Performance of Grapevine Hybrids in Two Rootstock and Trellis Height
Authors: Domingues Neto Francisco José , Pimentel Junior Adilson , Modesto Lenon Romano , Moura Mara Fernandes , Putti Fernando Ferrari , Boaro Carmen Silvia Fernandes , Ono Elizabeth Orika , Rodrigues João Domingos , Tecchio Marco Antonio
Published: May 2023

The interaction between variety, rootstock, and trellis height is important for grapevine management, mainly for producing new varieties of grapes for juice and wine in new wine-growing regions with high production potential. Then, this study aimed to evaluate the rootstocks and trellis height influence on photosynthesis, biochemical, and yield performance for grapevine hybrids. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design using two factors, rootstocks (‘IAC 766’ and ‘106-8 Mgt’) and trellis height (until 1.6 and 2.0 m), evaluated for two grapevine hybrids (IAC 138-22 ‘Maximo’ and ‘BRS Violeta’). During grapevine flowering, it was evaluated photosynthesis and biochemical performance, for this, the gaseous exchanges were measured using the open system photosynthesis equipment with a CO2 analyzer and water vapor by infrared radiation, being net assimilation rate of CO2, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, internal CO2 concentration, water use efficiency, carboxylation efficiency (Rubisco), and the flux density of photosynthetically active photons. At the stages of grapevine flowering and ripening berries were evaluated the antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT)), total soluble proteins, chlorophylls, and SPAD. The interaction between rootstock and trellis heigh influenced varieties’ photosynthesis, biochemical, and yield performance. In conclusion under subtropical conditions, better photosynthesis, biochemical, and yield performance were observed when both cultivars were grafted on the ‘IAC 766’ rootstock. The ‘IAC 138-22 Maximo’ was trained until 2.0 and grafted on the ‘IAC 766’ rootstock, increasing grape production and photosynthesis efficiency. In addition, this variety was more productive than ‘BRS Violeta’.
Evaluation of the Quality and Antioxidant Activity of Dehydrated Medicinal Herbs
Authors: Massarioli Adna Prado , de Alencar Severino Matias , Siqueira Adriano Francisco , de Melo Mariana Pereira , Vidigal Igor Gomes , Ferreira Ana Lúcia Gabas
Published: May 2023

This study aims to evaluate the effects of drying in a forced-air oven or solar dryer on the drying rates, physicochemical and microbiological characteristics, and antioxidant properties of rosemary, mint, common fennel, lemon grass, and basil. The drying rates of all herbs were higher in the forced-air oven in comparison to the solar dryer. According to results obtained for herbal properties after this different drying process, mint was less affected by both drying conditions. On the other hand, regardless of the method of drying used, all dried herbs exhibited similar antioxidant properties, mainly due to the presence of total phenolics. The antioxidant activities of oven-dried herbs ranged from 19.18 to 71.55% and increased in the order common fennel < lemon grass < mint < basil < rosemary, while the activities of sun-dried samples varied from 17.73 to 58.27% and increased in the order basil < common fennel < lemon grass < mint < rosemary. The results obtained demonstrate that the process of drying can alter the quality of an herbal product, implying that standardization of post-harvest steps is essential to ensure the consistency of an herbal product.
Variability in Productive and Biochemical Traits of Vicia faba L. Landraces from Apulia Region (South Italy)
Authors: De Cillis Francesca , Ruta Claudia , Pulvento Cataldo , Tedone Luigi , De Mastro Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

The faba bean (Vicia faba L. var. major) is a pulse that is garnering attention for its chemical composition, which makes it suitable for a healthy diet. The Apulian germplasm is rich in local accessions at risk of genetic erosion, which need evaluating and promoting. Thirteen Vicia faba local Landraces have been analyzed in relation to their productivity and their chemical and biochemical characteristics: their protein, total phenol, total flavonoid, condensate tannin and L-DOPA levels. The results showed great variability—above all in the thousand-seeds weight and in their content of proteins and L-DOPA. Among the accessions evaluated, the two collected from the most southern area of the region (FV12-FV10) were particularly promising—both for their good biochemical traits and, especially, for the higher L-DOPA content (0.46 and 0.49 g 100 g−1 d.m., respectively), even when expressed in terms of yield per plant (116.3 and 153.0 mg plant−1 d.m., respectively).
Effects of Aquatic Exercises for Women with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A 12-Week Intervention in a Quasi-Experimental Study with Pain as a Mediator of Depression
Authors: Perez-Sousa Miguel A. , Pedro Jéssica , Carrasco-Zahinos Rocio , Raimundo Armando , Parraca Jose A. , Tomas-Carus Pablo
Published: May 2023

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by low physical fitness, pain, and depression. The present study aimed to examine the effects of a supervised aquatic exercise program on physical fitness, depression, and pain in women with RA and determine whether decreases in pain mediate depression. Methods: Forty-three women with RA, divided into an experimental group (EG; n = 21) and a control group (CG; n = 23), participated in a 12-week exercise program. Treatment effects were calculated via standardized difference or effect size (ES) using ANCOVA adjusted for baseline values (ES, 95% confidence interval (CI)). A simple panel of mediation was executed to determine whether changes in pain mediated improvements in depression after controlling for confounding variables, such as age, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI). Results: The aquatic exercise program had trivial and small effects on physical fitness, large effects on pain, and moderate effects on depression. The mediation model confirmed the indirect effect of pain on the decrease of depression in the participants of the aquatic exercise program. Conclusions: Participants with RA in the aquatic exercise program experienced improvements in physical fitness, depression, and joint pain. Moreover, the improvements in joint pain mediated improvements in depression.
Three Reasons Why Expecting ‘Recovery’ in the Context of the Mental Health Impacts of Climate Change Is Problematic
Authors: Longman Jo , Patrick Rebecca , Bernays Sarah , Charlson Fiona
Published: May 2023

Global warming is bringing with it continued long-term changes in the climate system. Extreme weather-related events, which are already becoming a daily reality around the world, are predicted to be more intense and frequent in the future. The widespread occurrence of these events and climate change more broadly are being experienced collectively and at scale and do not affect populations evenly. These climate changes have profound impacts on mental health and wellbeing. Existing reactive responses include frequent implied and direct references to the concept of ‘recovery’. This is problematic in three ways: it conceives of extreme weather events as single, one-off occurrences; implies their unexpected nature; and contains an integral assumption of an end point where individuals/communities are ‘recovered’. Models of mental health and wellbeing support (including funding) need to change, shifting away from ‘recovery’ towards a focus on adaptation. We argue that this presents a more constructive approach that may be used to collectively support communities.
Trajectories of Drug Use and Depressive Symptoms among Latinx Youth and Sexual Minority Youth
Authors: Lozano Alyssa , Lee Tae Kyoung , Weinstein Elliott R. , Estrada Yannine , Graefe Beck , Tapia Maria I. , Prado Guillermo
Published: May 2023

Drug use and depression co-occur and disproportionately affect Latinx sexual minority youth relative to their heterosexual Latinx peers. However, heterogeneity in co-occurring patterns of drug use and depressive symptoms is unknown. The objective of the current study was to identify patterns of drug use and depressive symptom trajectories and examine how these patterns varied between Latinx sexual minority youth and Latinx non-sexual minority youth. Latent class trajectory analysis identified distinct patterns of drug use and depressive symptom trajectories among 231 Latinx adolescents (Latinx sexual minority youth: n = 46, 21.4%; Latinx non-sexual minority youth: n = 169, 78.6%). After identifying class mean trajectories, we examined differences in mean trajectories across groups. A 3-class model was selected as the optimal class trajectory model for both groups, yet classes and trajectories differed. There were differences in initial levels of depression and drug use trajectories between both groups, as well as differences in patterns of drug use trajectories between both groups in two of the three classes. Given the variation in trajectory patterns, there is a need for practitioners to consider the unique needs of both groups to inform the development of preventive interventions for these two populations.
Facilitating an Interprofessional Course on Climate Change and Public Health Preparedness
Authors: Rogers Heidi Honegger , Tucker Megan , Couig Mary Pat , Svihla Vanessa
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we share the theories that guided the design of an interprofessional education course on Climate Change and Public Health Preparedness and how the course supported students’ professional interest and action competence as they move through their education and into their professional work in the context of our unfolding climate crisis. The course was guided by the public health emergency preparedness domains and was built to allow for students to explore applications of the content for themselves and their own profession. We designed the learning activities to support personal and professional interest development and help students move into perceived and demonstrated action competence. For the evaluation of our course, we asked the following research questions: What kinds of personal and professional commitments to action did students propose by the end of the course? Did these vary in depth and specificity and by the number of credits they enrolled in? In what ways did students develop personal and professional action competence over the course? Finally, how did they show personal, professional, and collective agency related to the course content on adaptation, preparedness, and mitigation of the health impacts from climate change? Using qualitative analysis guided by action competence and interest development theories, we coded student writing from course assignments. We also conducted comparative statistical analysis to assess differential impacts for students who enrolled for one versus three credits. The results show that this course design supported students’ progression of knowledge and perceived ability in specific individual and professional collective actions to reduce the health impacts of climate change.
Pharmacoinformatic Investigation of Silymarin as a Potential Inhibitor against Nemopilema nomurai Jellyfish Metalloproteinase Toxin-like Protein
Authors: Asirvatham Ravi Deva , Hwang Du Hyeon , Prakash Ramachandran Loganathan Mohan , Kang Changkeun , Kim Euikyung
Published: May 2023

Jellyfish stings pose a major threat to swimmers and fishermen worldwide. These creatures have explosive cells containing one large secretory organelle called a nematocyst in their tentacles, which contains venom used to immobilize prey. Nemopilema nomurai, a venomous jellyfish belonging to the phylum Cnidaria, produces venom (NnV) comprising various toxins known for their lethal effects on many organisms. Of these toxins, metalloproteinases (which belong to the toxic protease family) play a significant role in local symptoms such as dermatitis and anaphylaxis, as well as systemic reactions such as blood coagulation, disseminated intravascular coagulation, tissue injury, and hemorrhage. Hence, a potential metalloproteinase inhibitor (MPI) could be a promising candidate for reducing the effects of venom toxicity. For this study, we retrieved the Nemopilema nomurai venom metalloproteinase sequence (NnV-MPs) from transcriptome data and modeled its three-dimensional structure using AlphaFold2 in a Google Colab notebook. We employed a pharmacoinformatics approach to screen 39 flavonoids and identify the most potent inhibitor against NnV-MP. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of flavonoids against other animal venoms. Based on our analysis, Silymarin emerged as the top inhibitor through ADMET, docking, and molecular dynamics analyses. In silico simulations provide detailed information on the toxin and ligand binding affinity. Our results demonstrate that Silymarin’s strong inhibitory effect on NnV-MP is driven by hydrophobic affinity and optimal hydrogen bonding. These findings suggest that Silymarin could serve as an effective inhibitor of NnV-MP, potentially reducing the toxicity associated with jellyfish envenomation.
Macrophages in the Glioblastoma Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Coniglio Salvatore J.
Published: May 2023

The prognosis of high-grade glioma remains dismal, with the median survival time being 15 months [...]