bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive Cessation and Post-Reproductive Lifespan in Honeybee Workers
Authors: Kuszewska Karolina , Woloszczuk Anna , Woyciechowski Michal
Published: April 2024

The post-reproductive lifespan is an evolutionary enigma because the cessation of reproduction in animals seems contrary to the maximization of Darwinian fitness. Several theories aim to explain the evolution of menopause, one of which suggests that females of a certain age receive more fitness benefits via indirect selection (kin selection) than they would directly from continuing reproduction. Post-reproductive lifespans are not very common in nature but have been described in humans, nonhuman primates, a few species of toothed whales, guppies, and in some insect societies consisting of clonal colony members, such as aphid and ant societies. Here, we provide evidence that menopause also exists in honeybee societies. Our study shows that workers with a short life expectancy (older and/or injured workers) invest fewer resources and less time in their own reproduction than workers with a long life expectancy (younger and/or uninjured workers), even if their colony is hopelessly queenless. These results are consistent with the kin selection explanation for the evolution of menopause and help us understand the net effects of relatedness and social cooperation in animals.
Prognostic Significance of the Bone Marrow-to-Aorta Uptake Ratio on 2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-d-glucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Patients with Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Lee Jeong Won , Yoo Ik Dong , Hong Sun-pyo , Kang Beodeul , Kim Jung Sun , Kim Yung Kil , Bae Sang Ho , Jang Su Jin , Lee Sang Mi
Published: April 2024

2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-d-glucose (FDG) uptake of the reticuloendothelial system on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is known to be related to systemic inflammatory response to cancer cells in patients with diverse malignancies. This retrospective study aimed to investigate whether FDG uptake by the reticuloendothelial system had a prognostic value in predicting progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in 138 cholangiocarcinoma patients. Quantifying FDG uptake of the aorta, bone marrow (BM), liver, and spleen from staging FDG PET/CT images, we found significant correlations between the BM-to-aorta uptake ratio (BAR), spleen-to-aorta uptake ratio, and BM-to-liver uptake ratio with tumor stage and serum inflammatory markers. In the multivariate survival analysis, BAR was an independent predictor of PFS (p = 0.016; hazard ratio, 2.308) and OS (p = 0.030; hazard ratio, 2.645). Patients with stages III–IV of the disease and a high BAR exhibited low 1-year PFS (35.8%) and OS (60.2%) rates, while those with stages I–II of the disease and low BAR showed robust rates of 90.0% and 96.7%, respectively. BAR measured on staging FDG PET/CT might be a potential imaging biomarker offering insights into the systemic inflammatory response and predicting prognosis in cholangiocarcinoma. This study highlights BAR as a promising, independent predictor with potential for personalized prognostication and treatment strategies.
Wireless EEG Recording of Audiogenic Seizure Activity in Freely Moving Krushinsky-Molodkina Rats
Authors: Krivopalov Sergey , Yushkov Boris , Sarapultsev Alexey
Published: April 2024

This study investigates audiogenic epilepsy in Krushinsky-Molodkina (KM) rats, questioning the efficacy of conventional EEG techniques in capturing seizures during animal restraint. Using a wireless EEG system that allows unrestricted movement, our aim was to gather ecologically valid data. Nine male KM rats, prone to audiogenic seizures, received implants of wireless EEG transmitters that target specific seizure-related brain regions. These regions included the inferior colliculus (IC), pontine reticular nucleus, oral part (PnO), ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (VLPAG), dorsal area of the secondary auditory cortex (AuD), and motor cortex (M1), facilitating seizure observation without movement constraints. Our findings indicate that targeted neural intervention via electrode implantation significantly reduced convulsive seizures in approximately half of the subjects, suggesting therapeutic potential. Furthermore, the amplitude of brain activity in the IC, PnO, and AuD upon audiogenic stimulus onset significantly influenced seizure severity and nature, highlighting these areas as pivotal for epileptic propagation. Severe cases exhibited dual waves of seizure generalization, indicative of intricate neural network interactions. Distinctive interplay between specific brain regions, disrupted during convulsive activity, suggests neural circuit reconfiguration in response to escalating seizure intensity. These discoveries challenge conventional methodologies, opening avenues for novel approaches in epilepsy research and therapeutic interventions.
Impact of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Cognitive and Psychiatric Dysfunction in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Badr Marwa Y. , Ahmed Gellan K. , Amer Reham A. , Aref Hend M. , Salem Rehab M. , Elmokadem Heba A. , Khedr Eman M.
Published: April 2024

Few randomized controlled trials have reported that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has controversial results for managing multiple domains of fibromyalgia-related symptoms. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of low-frequency rTMS over the right dorsolateral prefrontal area (DLPFC) on the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) concerning psychiatric and cognitive disorders. Forty-two eligible patients with fibromyalgia (FM) were randomized to have 20 sessions of active or sham rTMS (1 Hz, 120% of resting motor threshold with a total of 1200 pules/session) over the right DLPFC. All participants were evaluated at baseline, post sessions, and 3 months after sessions with the FIQ, Hamilton depression, and anxiety rating scales (HDRS and HARS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Tower of London test (TOL), the Trail Making, and Digit Span Tests. Both groups showed improvement in most rating scales at 1 and 3 months follow-up, with greater improvement in the active group, with significant correlation between FIQ cognitive rating scales, including RAVLT and TOL. Twenty sessions of low-frequency rTMS over the right DLPFC can improve FIQ scores regarding the psychiatric and cognitive symptoms of medicated patients with FM to a greater extent than sham. Changes in RAVLT and TOL correlated with changes in FIQ results.
Patient-Reported Outcomes after Laser Ablation for Bladder Tumours Compared to Transurethral Resection—A Prospective Study
Authors: Deacon Nina Nordtorp , Nielsen Ninna Kjær , Jensen Jørgen Bjerggaard
Published: April 2024

The standard procedure for diagnosis and treatment of bladder tumours, transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT), is associated with a complication rate of up to 26% and potentially has severe influence on patient-reported outcomes (PRO). Outpatient transurethral laser ablation (TULA) is an emerging new modality that is less invasive with a lower risk of complications and, thereby, possibly enhanced PRO. We collected PRO following transurethral procedures in treatment of bladder tumours to evaluate any clinically relevant differences in symptoms and side effects. This prospective observational study recruited consecutive patients undergoing different bladder tumour-related transurethral procedures. Patients filled out questionnaires regarding urinary symptoms (ICIQ-LUTS), postoperative side effects, and quality of life (EQ-5D-3L) at days 1 and 14 postoperatively. In total, 108 patients participated. The most frequently reported outcomes were postoperative haematuria and pain. Patients undergoing TURBT reported longer lasting haematuria, a higher perception of pain, and a more negative impact on quality of life compared to patients undergoing TULA. TURBT-treated patients had more cases of acute urinary retention and a higher need for contacting the healthcare system. Side effects following transurethral procedures were common but generally not severe. The early symptom burden following TURBT was more extensive than that following TULA.
What Is the Impact of Multimodal Treatment in Patients with Leiomyosarcoma of Bone? A Multicenter Study of 35 Patients with an Ultra-Rare Tumor Entity
Authors: Niethard Maya , Knebel Carolin , Leithner Andreas , Tunn Per-Ulf , Schoon Janosch , Reichardt Peter , Pogkas Athanasios , Szkandera Joanna , Pink Daniel , Andreou Dimosthenis
Published: April 2024

Primary leiomyosarcoma of bone (LMSoB) is extremely rare, comprising only <0.7% of primary malignant bone tumors, and is therefore considered an ultra-rare tumor entity. There is currently no consensus as to whether therapeutic strategies should be based on the biological characteristics of soft tissue leiomyosarcoma or on primary tumor localization in the bone. The use of perioperative chemotherapy and its effectiveness in this rare tumor entity remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the impact of different treatment approaches in a multicenter setting with a total of 35 patients included. The 5-year overall survival (OS) was 74%. Patients with localized disease undergoing surgery had a significantly higher 5-year OS compared to patients who did not undergo surgical treatment (82% vs. 0%, p = 0.0015). Axial tumor localization was associated with worse event-free survival (EFS) probability (p < 0.001) and OS (p = 0.0082). A high proportion of our patients developed secondary metastases. Furthermore, the perioperative chemotherapy protocols applied to our patients were not associated with an improved EFS or OS. Therefore, the benefit of perioperative chemotherapy in LMSoB needs to be further investigated, and the choice of agents still needs to be clarified.
Transient Interphase Microtubules Appear in Differentiating Sponge Cells
Authors: Golyshev Sergei A. , Lyupina Yulia V. , Kravchuk Oksana I. , Mikhailov Kirill V. , Gornostaev Nicolay G. , Burakov Anton V.
Published: April 2024

Microtubules are an indispensable component of all eukaryotic cells due to their role in mitotic spindle formation, yet their organization and number can vary greatly in the interphase. The last common ancestor of all eukaryotes already had microtubules and microtubule motor proteins moving along them. Sponges are traditionally regarded as the oldest animal phylum. Their body does not have a clear differentiation into tissues, but it contains several distinguishable cell types. The choanocytes stand out among them and are responsible for creating a flow of water with their flagella and increasing the filtering and feeding efficiency of the sponge. Choanocyte flagella contain microtubules, but thus far, observing a developed system of cytoplasmic microtubules in non-flagellated interphase sponge cells has been mostly unsuccessful. In this work, we combine transcriptomic analysis, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy with time-lapse recording to demonstrate that microtubules appear in the cytoplasm of sponge cells only when transdifferentiation processes are activated. We conclude that dynamic cytoplasmic microtubules in the cells of sponges are not a persistent but rather a transient structure, associated with cellular plasticity.
The Suppression of Ubiquitin C-Terminal Hydrolase L1 Promotes the Transdifferentiation of Auditory Supporting Cells into Hair Cells by Regulating the mTOR Pathway
Authors: Kim Yeon Ju , Jeong In Hye , Ha Jung Ho , Kim Young Sun , Sung Siung , Jang Jeong Hun , Choung Yun-Hoon
Published: April 2024

In mammals, hearing loss is irreversible due to the lack of the regenerative capacity of the auditory epithelium. However, stem/progenitor cells in mammalian cochleae may be a therapeutic target for hearing regeneration. The ubiquitin proteasome system plays an important role in cochlear development and maintenance. In this study, we investigated the role of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) in the process of the transdifferentiation of auditory supporting cells (SCs) into hair cells (HCs). The expression of UCHL1 gradually decreased as HCs developed and was restricted to inner pillar cells and third-row Deiters’ cells between P2 and P7, suggesting that UCHL1-expressing cells are similar to the cells with Lgr5-positive progenitors. UCHL1 expression was decreased even under conditions in which supernumerary HCs were generated with a γ-secretase inhibitor and Wnt agonist. Moreover, the inhibition of UCHL1 by LDN-57444 led to an increase in HC numbers. Mechanistically, LDN-57444 increased mTOR complex 1 activity and allowed SCs to transdifferentiate into HCs. The suppression of UCHL1 induces the transdifferentiation of auditory SCs and progenitors into HCs by regulating the mTOR pathway.
Adult Human, but Not Rodent, Spermatogonial Stem Cells Retain States with a Foetal-like Signature
Authors: Bush Stephen J. , Nikola Rafail , Han Seungmin , Suzuki Shinnosuke , Yoshida Shosei , Simons Benjamin D. , Goriely Anne
Published: April 2024

Spermatogenesis involves a complex process of cellular differentiation maintained by spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Being critical to male reproduction, it is generally assumed that spermatogenesis starts and ends in equivalent transcriptional states in related species. Based on single-cell gene expression profiling, it has been proposed that undifferentiated human spermatogonia can be subclassified into four heterogenous subtypes, termed states 0, 0A, 0B, and 1. To increase the resolution of the undifferentiated compartment and trace the origin of the spermatogenic trajectory, we re-analysed the single-cell (sc) RNA-sequencing libraries of 34 post-pubescent human testes to generate an integrated atlas of germ cell differentiation. We then used this atlas to perform comparative analyses of the putative SSC transcriptome both across human development (using 28 foetal and pre-pubertal scRNA-seq libraries) and across species (including data from sheep, pig, buffalo, rhesus and cynomolgus macaque, rat, and mouse). Alongside its detailed characterisation, we show that the transcriptional heterogeneity of the undifferentiated spermatogonial cell compartment varies not only between species but across development. Our findings associate ‘state 0B’ with a suppressive transcriptomic programme that, in adult humans, acts to functionally oppose proliferation and maintain cells in a ready-to-react state. Consistent with this conclusion, we show that human foetal germ cells—which are mitotically arrested—can be characterised solely as state 0B. While germ cells with a state 0B signature are also present in foetal mice (and are likely conserved at this stage throughout mammals), they are not maintained into adulthood. We conjecture that in rodents, the foetal-like state 0B differentiates at birth into the renewing SSC population, whereas in humans it is maintained as a reserve population, supporting testicular homeostasis over a longer reproductive lifespan while reducing mutagenic load. Together, these results suggest that SSCs adopt differing evolutionary strategies across species to ensure fertility and genome integrity over vastly differing life histories and reproductive timeframes.
Stress Coping Strategies in Parents of Newborns and Infants with Congenital Cyanotic Heart Disease with Regard to Stress Levels and Negative Emotions
Authors: Kruszecka-Krówka Agnieszka , Cepuch Grażyna , Micek Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

Background: Parents of children suffering from congenital heart disease experience high levels of stress and negative emotions. Therefore, recognition of parents’ emotional states and their ways of coping with it is becoming more and more important. Methods: The study group consisted of 154 parents of newborns and infants with cyanotic congenital heart disease, before and after cardiac surgery (partial or full). To assess parental negative emotions, the level of stress, and strategies of coping with it, standardized questionnaires, such as HADS-M, PSS-10, and COPE, were used. Results: Stress levels in parents were high and associated with negative emotions (anxiety, depression, irritability), as well as the choice of non-constructive coping strategies, which was observed especially in younger parents. Conclusions: Assessing parents’ stress levels and ways of coping with stress can improve family functioning and provide better development conditions for the child.
Klinefelter Syndrome: A Genetic Disorder Leading to Neuroendocrine Modifications and Psychopathological Vulnerabilities in Children—A Literature Review and Case Report
Authors: Panvino Fabiola , Paparella Roberto , Gambuti Luisiana , Cerrito Andrea , Menghi Michela , Micangeli Ginevra , Petrella Carla , Fiore Marco , Tarani Luigi , Ardizzone Ignazio
Published: April 2024

Klinefelter syndrome (KS), characterized by an additional X-chromosome in males, manifests in a wide range of neuroendocrine and psychiatric symptoms. Individuals with KS often face increased risks of hormonal dysfunction, leading to depression and anxiety, although extended research during pediatric and adolescent age is still limited. This critical phase, decisive for KS children, is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental and familial factors, which impact brain plasticity. In this report, we reviewed, in a narrative form, the crucial KS psychopathological hallmarks in children. To better describe neuroendocrine and neuropsychiatric outcomes in children with KS, we presented the case of an 11-year-old prepubertal child with mosaic KS who was referred to our Center of Developmental Psychopathology due to a decline in his academic performance, excessive daytime fatigue and increased distractibility over the past few months. Family history revealed psychiatric conditions among first- and second-degree relatives, including recently divorced parents and a 15-year-old sister. Early-onset persistent depressive disorder and anxious traits were diagnosed. Timely identification of susceptible children, with thorough examination of familial psychiatric history, environmental influences and neurocognitive profile, alongside targeted interventions, could potentially mitigate lifelong psychopathology-related disabilities in pediatric and adolescent KS cases, including those with mosaic KS.
Fabrication of Nanostructures Consisting of Composite Nanoparticles by Open-Air PLD
Authors: Dikovska Anna Og , Karashanova Daniela , Atanasova Genoveva , Avdeev Georgi , Atanasov Petar , Nedyalkov Nikolay N.
Published: April 2024

We present a two-step physical method for the fabrication of composite nanoparticle-based nanostructures. The proposed method is based on the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique performed sequentially in vacuum and in air. As a first step, thin-alloyed films of iron with noble metal were deposited by PLD in vacuum. The films were prepared by ablation of a mosaic target formed by equal iron and gold sectors. As a second step, the as-prepared alloyed films were ablated in air at atmospheric pressure as the laser beam scanned their surface. Two sets of experiments were performed in the second step, namely, by applying nanosecond (ns) and picosecond (ps) laser pulses for ablation. The structure, microstructure, morphology, and optical properties of the samples obtained were studied with respect to the laser ablation regime applied. The implementation of the ablation process in open air resulted in the formation of nanoparticle and/or nanoparticle aggregates in the plasma plume regardless of the ablation regime applied. These nanoparticles and/or nanoaggregates deposited on the substrate formed a complex porous structure. It was found that ablating FeAu films in air by ns pulses resulted in the fabrication of alloyed nanoparticles, while ablation by ps laser pulses results in separation of the metals in the alloy and further oxidation of Fe. In the latter case, the as-deposited structures also contain core–shell type nanoparticles, with the shell consisting of Fe-oxide phase. The obtained structures, regardless of the ablation regime applied, demonstrate a red-shifted plasmon resonance with respect to the plasmon resonance of pure Au nanoparticles.
Rheological Behaviors and Fractional Viscoelastic Modeling of Glucopone (APG)/Water/Hydrocarbons Solutions
Authors: Siddig Mohamed A.
Published: April 2024

The aims of this work are to study the rheological behaviors of a microemulsion of Glucopone–water–hydrocarbon systems and to use a fractional model to describe several experimental results of these systems. Four different types of hydrocarbons were considered. The frequency dependent storage, G′, and loss modulus, G″, were investigated below the critical strain. The critical strain was found to decrease as the alkane chain lengths increased, while the opposite behavior was observed for zero shear viscosity, η0. Most of the microemulsions exhibited stable elastic fluid behavior (G′ > G″) below 10 rad s−1 angular frequency. For all systems, elastic modulus values were found to be greater than loss modulus in the frequency range studied, indicating more elastic behaviors. Shear-thinning behaviors were observed, and the complex viscosity decreased with an increase in hydrocarbon chain lengths. The effects of hydrocarbon types on the rheological behaviors were more profound in the dodecane systems which showed maximum values of G′ and η0. The Friedrich–Braun model was introduced and was used to describe several experimental results on Alkyl polyglocoside solutions. Fractional rheology successfully described the viscoelastic phenomena in Glucopone surfactant solutions and the comparisons between the experimental results and the theoretical predictions were found to be satisfactory.
Effect of Precursors Concentrations on the Photocatalysis Performance Stability of Electrodeposited ZnO Nanorods and Their Robustness in Aqueous Environments
Authors: Alshammari Abdullah S. , Mohamed Mansour , Khan Ziaul Raza , Bouzidi Mohamed , Gandouzi Mohamed
Published: April 2024

ZnO nanostructured materials have been widely utilized in several environmental depollution applications. In the current work, ZnO nanorods were grown using the electrodeposition method with different precursor concentrations. A variation in the dimensions of the nanorods grown with the different precursor concentrations was noticed, as expected. The ability of the fabricated nanorods to remove water pollutants under UV irradiation and their photocatalytic performance stability was also evaluated over a prolonged period of time. Interestingly, the samples grown in different conditions exhibited different capabilities to maintain their morphology and their photocatalytic performance after they were kept in contaminated water for a long time. Moreover, some samples also were found to remain photocatalytically active for approximately 47% longer than other samples. These findings indicate that the performance stability of ZnO nanorods for pollutants removal and their robustness can be greatly improved by controlling their growth parameters, which will favorably impact the use of ZnO nanorods for water-treatment applications and their economic aspects.
Evaluation of Pesticides on Detritus-Inhabiting and Root-Associated Fungi in Aquatic Habitats and Potential Implications
Authors: Raudabaugh Daniel B. , Miller Andrew N. , Gunsch Claudia K.
Published: April 2024

Pesticide contamination of aquatic ecosystems poses a significant threat to humans and can adversely affect fungal-driven processes in these understudied habitats. Here, we investigated the effects of four pesticides on detritus-inhabiting and plant root-associated fungi from streams, peatlands, and saltwater marshes. Additionally, we assessed the isolates’ capacities to degrade three carbon sources to understand the impact of pesticides on fungal-driven processes. Pesticide assays were conducted in 96-well glass-coated plates, with fungal growth measured using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer set to 595 nm. Assays included technical replication (n = 6), replication over time (n = 2), negative controls, and carry-over controls. In total, we assayed more than 153 isolates, representing up to 97 fungal genera. Results showed that 1.9%, 49.7%, 3.1%, and 5.6% of the isolates exhibited consistently lower growth when exposed to atrazine, mancozeb, cypermethrin, and malathion, respectively. Furthermore, 101 isolates, comprising 87 genera, were tested for cellulase, starch degradation, and tannase activity, with 41.6%, 28.7%, and 30.7% of the isolates testing positive, respectively. These findings suggest that while many species demonstrate functional redundancy, some fungal species are sensitive to current environmental pesticide levels, which affects their growth and may have broader implications on ecosystem health.
Artificial Intelligence through Wireless Sensors Applied in Restorative Dentistry: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Vivares-Builes Annie Marcela
Published: April 2024

The integration of wireless sensors with artificial intelligence could represent a transformative approach in restorative dentistry, offering a sophisticated means to enhance diagnostic precision, treatment planning, and patient outcomes. This systematic review was conducted to pinpoint and assess the efficacy of wireless sensors in restorative dentistry. The search methodology followed the guidelines outlined by PRISMA and involved the utilization of prominent scientific databases. Following the final phase of evaluating eligibility, the systematic review included six papers. Five experiments were conducted in vitro, while one was a randomized clinical trial. The investigations focused on wireless sensors for cavity diagnosis, toothbrush forces, facial mask applications, and physiological parameter detection from dental implants. All wireless sensors demonstrated efficacy in achieving the objectives established by each study and showed the validity, accuracy, and reproducibility of this device. The investigations examined in this systematic review illustrate the potential of wireless sensors in restorative dentistry, especially in the areas of caries detection, dental implant systems, face masks, and power brushes. These technologies hold promise for enhancing patient outcomes and alleviating the workload of dental practitioners.
Long-Term Volumetric Stability of Maxillary Sinus Floor Augmentation Using a Xenograft Bone Substitute and Its Combination with Autologous Bone: A 6+ Year Retrospective Follow-Up Study Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Zamure-Damberga Liene , Radzins Oskars , Salms Girts , Zolovs Maksims , Bokvalde Zanda , Neimane Laura
Published: April 2024

Deproteinised bovine bone (DBB) is widely used as bone substitute in maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA) surgery. No previous studies have shown the long-term volumetric changes in the augmented bone when using DBB. The selected patients had MFSA performed using a lateral window technique and a xenograft, alone or in combination with the patient’s autologous bone from the mandible. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were used to compare the volumetric changes in the augmented bone for patients over a period of 6 or more years. No significant bone reduction was seen in the augmented bone region when comparing MSFA after 7 months and 6 or more years after dental implantation.
Enhancing UAV Aerial Docking: A Hybrid Approach Combining Offline and Online Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Feng Yuting , Yang Tao , Yu Yushu
Published: April 2024

In our study, we explore the task of performing docking maneuvers between two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using a combination of offline and online reinforcement learning (RL) methods. This task requires a UAV to accomplish external docking while maintaining stable flight control, representing two distinct types of objectives at the task execution level. Direct online RL training could lead to catastrophic forgetting, resulting in training failure. To overcome these challenges, we design a rule-based expert controller and accumulate an extensive dataset. Based on this, we concurrently design a series of rewards and train a guiding policy through offline RL. Then, we conduct comparative verification on different RL methods, ultimately selecting online RL to fine-tune the model trained offline. This strategy effectively combines the efficiency of offline RL with the exploratory capabilities of online RL. Our approach improves the success rate of the UAV’s aerial docking task, increasing it from 40% under the expert policy to 95%.
A Blended Approach to Inquiry-Based Learning Using the Example of the Interdisciplinary Course of BIM in Spatial Management Studies: A Perspective of Students and Professor
Authors: Borkowski Andrzej Szymon
Published: April 2024

Inquiry-based learning (IBL) is one of the most effective teaching methods to follow the trend of constructivism. Its main premise is the dominant role of the cognitively activated student, who, like the researcher, has the opportunity to pose questions, test hypotheses and solve problems by using a wide range of tools and techniques. The output of the IBL method is usually a presentation or a piece of work. In the experiment carried out, the IBL method was used during the interdisciplinary course “Building Information Modelling (BIM)”, taught at the master’s degree programme majoring in spatial management at the Warsaw University of Technology. The aim of the class was to solve a specific problem and develop a scientific and technical manuscript, which at the same time could form the basis of a scientific publication. The class was first experimentally implemented with a mixed-methods approach based mainly on IBL. Students were introduced to IBL techniques and tools as part of a project exercise, then were presented with problem and research topics. Participants in the classes chose an issue from those presented or created a topic of interest themselves. Peer learning, Montessori silent lessons or supervision were used during the implementation of the activities. Students were not assessed digitally, but their activity was marked in the form of pluses (+) and the focus was on providing quick and complete feedback (always individually to the individual or group). The class concluded with a self-assessment and a research questionnaire, which concluded that an authoritative teaching process was a far better choice than an authoritarian or liberal process.
Implementation of Home-Schooling: Parents’ Practices and Processes
Authors: Forlin Chris , Chambers Dianne
Published: April 2024

With increasing numbers of parents choosing to home-school their child, currently there is very limited information about how this is implemented. Utilizing the recently developed Parents’ Perceptions of Home-Schooling scale (PPHS), a survey of 93 home-schooling parents in Western Australia was undertaken. Data were collected using five Likert scales to obtain information concerned with a range of implementation aspects. Key findings were related to the process for registering and providing an appropriate learning program, the role of the home-educator moderator, the type of study and support utilized, and whether the student had a disability or ALNs. The discussion considers links to inclusion and how the heightened uptake of home-schooling can be monitored effectively.
An Algorithm for Distracted Driving Recognition Based on Pose Features and an Improved KNN
Authors: Gong Yingjie , Shen Xizhong
Published: April 2024

To reduce safety accidents caused by distracted driving and address issues such as low recognition accuracy and deployment difficulties in current algorithms for distracted behavior detection, this paper proposes an algorithm that utilizes an improved KNN for classifying driver posture features to predict distracted driving behavior. Firstly, the number of channels in the Lightweight OpenPose network is pruned to predict and output the coordinates of key points in the upper body of the driver. Secondly, based on the principles of ergonomics, driving behavior features are modeled, and a set of five-dimensional feature values are obtained through geometric calculations. Finally, considering the relationship between the distance between samples and the number of samples, this paper proposes an adjustable distance-weighted KNN algorithm (ADW-KNN), which is used for classification and prediction. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm achieved a recognition rate of 94.04% for distracted driving behavior on the public dataset SFD3, with a speed of up to 50FPS, superior to mainstream deep learning algorithms in terms of accuracy and speed. The superiority of ADW-KNN was further verified through experiments on other public datasets.
CBin-NN: An Inference Engine for Binarized Neural Networks
Authors: Sakr Fouad , Berta Riccardo , Doyle Joseph , Capello Alessio , Dabbous Ali , Lazzaroni Luca , Bellotti Francesco
Published: April 2024

Binarization is an extreme quantization technique that is attracting research in the Internet of Things (IoT) field, as it radically reduces the memory footprint of deep neural networks without a correspondingly significant accuracy drop. To support the effective deployment of Binarized Neural Networks (BNNs), we propose CBin-NN, a library of layer operators that allows the building of simple yet flexible convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with binary weights and activations. CBin-NN is platform-independent and is thus portable to virtually any software-programmable device. Experimental analysis on the CIFAR-10 dataset shows that our library, compared to a set of state-of-the-art inference engines, speeds up inference by 3.6 times and reduces the memory required to store model weights and activations by 7.5 times and 28 times, respectively, at the cost of slightly lower accuracy (2.5%). An ablation study stresses the importance of a Quantized Input Quantized Kernel Convolution layer to improve accuracy and reduce latency at the cost of a slight increase in model size.
Enhancing Stock Market Forecasts with Double Deep Q-Network in Volatile Stock Market Environments
Authors: Papageorgiou George , Gkaimanis Dimitrios , Tjortjis Christos
Published: April 2024

Stock market prediction is a subject of great interest within the finance industry and beyond. In this context, our research investigates the use of reinforcement learning through implementing the double deep Q-network (DDQN) alongside technical indicators and sentiment analysis, utilizing data from Yahoo Finance and StockTwits to forecast NVIDIA’s short-term stock movements over the dynamic and volatile period from 2 January 2020, to 21 September 2023. By incorporating financial data, the model’s effectiveness is assessed in three stages: initial reliance on closing prices, the introduction of technical indicators, and the integration of sentiment analysis. Early findings showed a dominant buy tendency (63.8%) in a basic model. Subsequent phases used technical indicators for balanced decisions and sentiment analysis to refine strategies and moderate rewards. Comparative analysis underscores a progressive increase in profitability, with average profits ranging from 57.41 to 119.98 with full data integration and greater outcome variability. These results reveal the significant impact of combining diverse data sources on the model’s predictive accuracy and profitability, suggesting that integrating sentiment analysis alongside traditional financial metrics can significantly enhance the sophistication and effectiveness of algorithmic trading strategies in fluctuating market environments.
An Attitude Adaptive Integral Sliding Mode Control Algorithm with Disturbance Observer for Microsatellites to Track High-Speed Moving Targets
Authors: Yang Xinyan , Li Lei , Liao Yurong , Li Zhaoming
Published: April 2024

Gaze tracking of high-speed moving targets is a novel application mode for low Earth orbit microsatellites. In this mode, small satellites are equipped with high-resolution, narrow-field-of-view video cameras for stable gaze-tracking imaging of high-speed moving targets. This paper proposes a high-precision attitude adaptive integral sliding mode control method with a feedforward compensation disturbance observer to enhance the capability of a microsatellite attitude control system for gaze tracking of high-speed moving targets. Specifically, first, we present the attitude control system model for microsatellites and the calculation method for the desired attitude of target tracking based on image feedback. Then, an adaptive integral sliding mode attitude control algorithm with a feedforward compensation disturbance observer, which meets the requirements of high-precision tracking control, is designed. The developed algorithm utilizes the disturbance observer to observe the friction torque of the flywheel and compensates for it through feedforward control. It also employs the adaptive integral sliding mode control algorithm to reduce the impact of uncertain disturbances, decrease the steady-state error of the system, and enhance attitude control precision. Simulation experiments demonstrated that the designed disturbance observer can successfully observe the frictional disturbance torque of the flywheel. The attitude Euler angle control precision for high-speed moving target tracking reached 0.03°, and the angular velocity control precision reached 0.005°/s, validating the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Correction: Vasistha et al. Exploring the Pivotal Significance of Microalgae-Derived Sustainable Lipid Production: A Critical Review of Green Bioenergy Development. Energies 2023, 16, 531
Authors:   Energies Editorial Office
Published: April 2024

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Proposal and Study of a Pumped Thermal Energy Storage to Improve the Economic Results of a Concentrated Solar Power That Works with a Hybrid Rankine–Brayton Propane Cycle
Authors: Subires Antonio Jesús , Rovira Antonio , Muñoz Marta
Published: April 2024

This work proposes a pumped thermal energy storage (PTES) integrated into the power block of a concentrated solar power plant. The power block operates under a Hybrid Rankine–Brayton (HRB) cycle using propane as the working fluid. During PTES charging, some thermal energy is obtained from a dedicated compressor (additional to that of the HRB cycle), which is stored. During discharge, both compressors (HRB and PTES) are off, restoring the consumed energy and resulting in about a 13% increase in nominal power output. The system is also able to store thermal energy that would otherwise be rejected through the condenser if the PTES were turned off, leading to efficiency improvements in some cases. Considering the 2022 Spanish electricity market prices, the proposed PTES integration with 4 h of storage is feasible. The levelized cost of storage is calculated and compared to those of other PTES systems, achieving around a 40% reduction compared with an equivalent PTES Rankine. These results encourage future studies where the proposed PTES could be integrated into other power cycles that include a recompression process.
Development of a Genetic Algorithm-Based Control Strategy for Fuel Consumption Optimization in a Mild Hybrid Electrified Vehicle’s Electrified Propulsion System
Authors: Filho Roberto H. Q. , Ruiz Rodrigo P. M. , Fernandes Eisenhawer de M. , Filho Rosalvo B. , Pimenta Felipe C.
Published: April 2024

Increasingly stringent pollutant emission regulations and a customer demand for a high-fuel economy drive the modern automotive industry to hurriedly solve the problem of decarbonization and powertrain efficiency, leading R&D towards alternative powertrain solutions and fuels. Electrification, today, plays the biggest role in the topic, with Mild Hybrid Electrified Vehicles (MHEVs) being the most cost-effective architectures, displaying dominance in smaller markets such as Brazil. One of the biggest challenges for HEVs’ development is the complexity of the hybrid control system, knowing when to actuate the electric machine, and the optimum power delivery, plus the gearshift schedule becomes a hard optimization problem that plays a key role in powertrain efficiency and cost savings for the customer. This paper proposes the implementation of a genetic algorithm (GA) as a machine learning-based control strategy to determine the torque split and the gear engaged for each driving condition of an MHEV operation, aiming to optimize fuel consumption. A quasi-static model of the vehicle was developed in Matlab/Simulink version 2022b, the virtual vehicle was then tested following the FTP75 and HWFET driving cycles. Simulation results indicate that the control decisions taken by the GA are qualitatively coherent for all operation conditions, and even quantitatively coherent in some cases, and that the software has the potential to be used as a control strategy outside the simulation environment, in future steps of development.
Effects of Different Thinning Intensities on Carbon Storage in Pinus koraiensis Middle-Aged Plantations in Northeast China
Authors: Sakib Nazmus , Poudel Tika Ram , Hao Yuanqin , Roberts Nathan James , Iddrisu Abdul-Qadir , Adhikari Saraswoti , Zhang Peng
Published: April 2024

Forest ecosystems are essential to the global carbon cycle because they are the biggest terrestrial carbon reserves. In the management of forests, thinning is a commonly employed strategy, impacting the respiration and biomass loss of trees, thereby modifying forest carbon dynamics. However, there is a lack of scientific research to confirm the impacts of thinning intensities on carbon storage in trees, soil layers, shrubs, and ground vegetation layers as well as its impact on wood production and growth rate. The goal of this study was to find the optimal thinning levels for increasing carbon sequestration during the growth stage of the Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) middle-aged plantations in Northeast China. In this study, thinning intensity (0, 10, 11, 16, 18, and 22%) affected the carbon storage of trees, tree growth, volume, and, we suspected, soil layer, shrubs, and vegetation (herbs, litter, and grass) also. Specifically, after four years of thinning, the 18% treatment significantly increased total carbon storage, individual organ storage, growth, and tree volume (p < 0.05). These results give us abundant information about how thinning affects the dynamics of carbon storage, wood production, and the interactions between soil and plants in P. koraiensis plantations, contributing to multi-objective management strategies for optimizing carbon sequestration, wood production, and ecosystem health.
Unveiling the Influence of Climate and Technology on Forest Efficiency: Evidence from Chinese Provinces
Authors: Yasmeen Rizwana , Shah Wasi Ul Hassan
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study is to examine the impact of climate and technology on forest efficiency (FE) in China’s provinces from 2002 to 2020. First, the study used SBM-data envelopment analysis (SBM-DEA) to estimate Chinese provinces’ FE using multidimensional forest inputs and outputs. The climate influence is assessed using temperature, precipitation, sunlight hours, and carbon dioxide levels in the second phase. A climate index was created using principal component analysis (PCA) for a complete estimation. In addition to prior research, we analyze the technology impact through two technological indicators: (i) research and development, and (ii) investment in forests. Furthermore, we explore the non-linear influence of economic development on both FE and climate quality. The regression study by CupFM and CupBC found that temperature and precipitation increase FE, whereas sunlight hours and carbon emissions decrease it. The positive association observed between Climate Index1, and the negative relationship noted for Climate Index2, suggests that forests positively influence climate conditions, signifying that an improvement in FE leads to an improvement in climate quality. Technology boosts forest productivity and climatic quality. The environmental Kuznets curve shows an inverted U-shape relationship between economic development and FE. Similarly, climate and economic development have an inverted U-shaped EKC relationship. Urbanization reduces FE due to human growth and activity. Our findings are important for forest management, climate change, and sustainable development policymakers and scholars.
Pragmatic Carbohydrate Quality Metrics in Relation to Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load, and Front-of-Pack Warning Labels in Grain Foods
Authors: Fontanelli Mariane de Mello , Batista Lais Duarte , Martinez-Arroyo Angela , Mozaffarian Dariush , Micha Renata , Rogero Marcelo Macedo , Fisberg Regina Mara , Sarti Flavia Mori
Published: April 2024

The challenges in the characterization of the nutritional quality of grain foods comprise obstacles to public health actions toward promotion of healthier grain-based foods. The present study investigated how carbohydrate metrics related to glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and warning labels of grain foods consumed by individuals living in São Paulo, Brazil. Information on intake of grain foods at individual level was obtained using 24 h recalls within a cross-sectional population-based survey conducted in 2015. There were 244 unique grain products reported by individuals in the survey, assessed through four metrics of carbohydrate quality, considering contents per 10 g of total carbohydrate: (1) ≥1 g fiber, (2) ≥1 g fiber and <1 g free sugars, (3) ≥1 g fiber and <2 g free sugars, and (4) ≥1 g fiber, and <2 g free sugars per 1 g of fiber. Outcomes included GI, GL, and inclusion of warning labels proposed by the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), the Chilean Ministry of Health (1st and 3rd stages), and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Metrics identified products with lower mean GI (−12.8 to −9.0 [p-values < 0.001]), and GL (−12.5 to −10.3 [p-values < 0.001]). Warning systems showed a certain degree of discrimination between products according to the metrics (p-value < 0.01 each); however, >50% of products with good nutritional quality according to the carbohydrate metrics still would receive warnings. Findings suggest that carbohydrate metrics identified products with lower GI and GL, and current warning labels may not adequately capture overall nutritional quality of grain foods.