bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vector-Borne Pathogens in Stray Cats in Eastern Germany (Thuringia)
Authors: Schäfer Ingo , Peukert Axel , Kerner Katharina , Müller Elisabeth
Published: August 2023

Bacterial, protozoal, and viral vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) can cause infections in cats. There is little information on feline VBP prevalence in Germany. Stray cats are frequently exposed to vectors but receive no veterinary care. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of selected VBPs in stray cats. EDTA blood and serum samples were taken from apparently healthy stray cats during a spay/neuter campaign in the federal state of Thuringia. Overall, 11/50 (22%) and 32/50 (64%) cats tested positive for at least one VBP by direct and indirect detection methods, respectively. PCR testing of EDTA blood detected hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. in 12% of cats, Hepatozoon spp. in 10%, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in 4%. PCR testing for Rickettsia spp. and piroplasms was negative. IFAT on serum samples showed 46% of cats had detectable antibodies for Bartonella spp., 30% for Rickettsia spp., and 16% for A. phagocytophilum. The cats were additionally tested for feline coronavirus, FIV, and FeLV to identify potential risk factors for pathogen contact and/or infections. No correlation between FIV and FeLV status and VBP positivity was detected. Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Rickettsia spp., and Bartonella spp. have zoonotic potential, and surveillance is recommended in the context of the One Health approach.
Feeding Behavior, Growth Performance and Meat Quality Profile in Broiler Chickens Fed Multiple Levels of Xylooligosaccharides
Authors: Li Xixi , Wu Xiaohong , Ma Wenfeng , Xu Houqiang , Chen Wei , Zhao Furong
Published: August 2023

A total of 240 1-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chickens were randomly distributed to 4 treatment groups with 6 replicates and 10 birds per replicate. Chickens were fed with corn-soybean meal diet supplementation with additions of 0, 150, 300, and 450 mg/kg XOS for 42 days. At 4 weeks of age, the average feeding time was reduced in the 450 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05), and the percentage of feeding time was increased in the 300 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05). At 5 weeks of age, broilers fed with 300 mg/kg XOS had increased the percentage of feeding time (p < 0.05), and 450 mg/kg XOS had increased the feeding frequency and percentage of feeding time (p < 0.05). At 6 weeks of age, the feeding frequency was highest in the 450 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05). During 4 to 6 weeks of age, the average feeding time was increased in 300 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05), the frequency was improved in the 450 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05), and the percentage of feeding time was longer in the XOS group than that in the control group (p < 0.05). The average daily gain was improved during days 22–42 and days 1–42 in the 150 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05). Broilers fed with 300 mg/kg XOS had an increased eviscerated rate (p < 0.05). The pH45min of breast muscle was highest in the 450 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05), as well as the pH45min and pH24h of thigh muscle, which improved in the 300 mg/kg and 450 mg/kg XOS groups (p < 0.05). In addition, the cooking loss of thigh muscle was reduced in the 300 mg/kg XOS group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with XOS had positive effects on the feeding behavior, growth performance, and meat quality of broiler chickens.
Kinematic Modeling of a Trepanation Surgical Robot System
Authors: Wolniakowski Adam , Trochimczuk Roman , Moulianitis Vassilis , Miatliuk Kanstantsin
Published: August 2023

This paper presents the concept of a parallel medical robotic service system to assist in a surgical procedure involving precise exploratory trepanation holes in a patient’s skull. The target position and orientation of the trepanation tool in the cranial region is determined using a prior intracranial image analysis using an external medical imaging system. A trepanning actuation system is attached to the end-effector of the parallel robot. The end-effector will act as an accurate positioner for the trepanning drill in the medical intervention area. The conceptual design of the mechanical actuation subsystem of a trepanning robot was developed in the SolidWorks 2022 software environment. The virtual model of the kinematic chain of the robot and the assumed design parameters were used to analytically derive the equations describing the inverse kinematics task. An analysis of the forward kinematics task of the parallel manipulator was also carried out using analytical and numerical methods. A workspace analysis was performed using Matlab based on the kinematic model of the parallel robot. This paper significantly advances the field by presenting the conceptual design of the actuation subsystem, deriving the kinematics equations, conducting a thorough workspace analysis, and establishing a foundation for subsequent control-algorithm development.
Sensitivity of Source Apportionment of Ambient PM2.5-Bound Elements to Input Concentration Data
Authors: Zhang Tianchu , Su Yushan , Debosz Jerzy , Noble Michael , Munoz Anthony , Xu Xiaohong
Published: August 2023

This study investigated the sensitivity of the positive matrix factorization (PMF) model using concentrations of PM2.5-bound elements in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Five scenarios were devised to assess impacts of input data on source identification, source contributions, and model performance. The study found that the model outcomes and performance were not sensitive to data below method detection limits (MDLs) being replaced with ½ MDLs, nor whether brown carbons (BrCs) data were excluded. By analyzing two episodic events individually, unique factors of fireworks and mineral dust were identified for each of the two episodes. Moreover, PMF model performance was improved greatly for event markers of the episodes and elements with less variability in concentration when compared with the base case scenario. Excluding the two episodes from the entire dataset had little impact on factor identification and source contributions but improved the model performance for three out of twelve elements unique to the two episodes. Overall, the PMF model outcomes and performance were sensitive to percentages of concentrations below MDLs and element concentrations with large variability due to high concentrations observed in episodes. Our findings are useful for dealing with data below MDLs and episodic events in conducting future PMF source apportionment of PM2.5-bound elements.
Chromogenic Mechanisms of Colorimetric Sensors Based on Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Cui Yanyun , Zhao Jun , Li Huidan
Published: August 2023

The colorimetric signal readout method is widely used in visualized analyses for its advantages, including visualization of test results, simple and fast operations, low detection cost and fast response time. Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs), which not only exhibit enzyme-like activity but also have the advantages of tunable localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), high stability, good biocompatibility and easily modified properties, provide excellent platforms for the construction of colorimetric sensors. They are widely used in environmental monitoring, biomedicine, the food industry and other fields. This review focuses on the chromogenic mechanisms of colorimetric sensors based on Au NPs adopting two different sensing strategies and summarizes significant advances in Au NP-based colorimetric sensing with enzyme-like activity and tunable LSPR characteristics. In addition, the sensing strategies based on the LSPR properties of Au NPs are classified into four modulation methods: aggregation, surface modification, deposition and etching, and the current status of visual detection of various analytes is discussed. Finally, the review further discusses the limitations of current Au NP-based detection strategies and the promising prospects of Au NPs as colorimetric sensors, guiding the design of novel colorimetric sensors.
Multiplex Detection of Biogenic Amines for Meat Freshness Monitoring Using Nanoplasmonic Colorimetric Sensor Array
Authors: Abbasi-Moayed Samira , Orouji Afsaneh , Hormozi-Nezhad Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2023

Biogenic amines (BAs) were presented as significant markers for the evaluation of the spoilage of meat and meat products. In this work, a colorimetric sensor array was developed for the discrimination and detection of spermine (SP), spermidine (SD), histamine (HS), and tryptamine (TP) as important BAs in food assessment. For this aim, two important spherical plasmonic nanoparticles, namely gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), were utilized as the sensing elements of the probes. The cross-reactive interaction of the target biogenic amines and the plasmonic nanoparticles caused the aggregation-induced UV–Vis spectra changes, which were accompanied by visual color variation in the solution. The collected responses were analyzed by principal component analysis-linear discrimination analysis (PCA-LDA) to classify the four BAs. This colorimetric sensor array can also discriminate between the individual BAs and their mixture accurately. Partial least squares regression (PLS-R) was also utilized for quantitative analysis of the BAs. The wide linear concentration ranges of 0.1–10.0 µM for the four BAs and desirable figures of merits (FOMs) showed the potential of the developed sensor for quantitative detection of the BAs. Finally, the practical ability of the developed probe was studied by the determination of the BAs in the meat samples, which successfully proved the potential of the colorimetric sensor array in a food sample.
Bailey-Bloch Congenital Myopathy in Brazilian Patients: A Very Rare Myopathy with Malignant Hyperthermia Susceptibility
Authors: Gomes Gustavo Rodrigues Ferreira , Mariano Tamiris Carneiro , Braga Vitor Lucas Lopes , Ribeiro Erlane Marques , Guimarães Ingred Pimentel , Pereira Késia Sindy Alves Ferreira , Nóbrega Paulo Ribeiro , Pessoa André Luiz Santos
Published: August 2023

Background: Congenital myopathy-13 (CMYP13), also known as Bailey-Bloch congenital myopathy and Native American myopathy (NAM), is a condition caused by biallelic missense pathogenic variants in STAC3, which encodes an important protein necessary for the excitation-relaxation coupling machinery in the muscle. Patients with biallelic pathogenic variants in STAC3 often present with congenital weakness and arthrogryposis, cleft palate, ptosis, myopathic facies, short stature, kyphoscoliosis, and susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia provoked by anesthesia. We present two unrelated cases of Bailey-Bloch congenital myopathy descendants of non-consanguineous parents, which were investigated for delayed psychomotor development and generalized weakness. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first descriptions of CMYP13 in Brazil. In both patients, we found the previously described pathogenic missense variant p.Trp284Ser in homozygosity. Conclusion: We seek to highlight the need for screening for CMYP13 in patients expressing the typical phenotype of the disease even in the absence of Lumbee Native American ancestry, and to raise awareness to possible complications like malignant hyperthermia in Bailey-Bloch congenital myopathy.
Neurological Consequences of COVID-19: A Systematic Review of the Pandemic’s Impact on Neurology Training
Authors: Ercoli Tommaso , Barbato Francesco , Bombaci Alessandro , Cuffaro Luca , Di Lorenzo Francesco , Iodice Francesco , Romoli Michele , Solla Paolo , Defazio Giovanni
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on neurology training programs, leading to disruptions and changes that may have long-term implications for neurological education. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on neurological training programs, collecting available data relating to residents’ experience worldwide. We performed a systematic search of the literature published on PubMed from January 2020 to March 2023, including studies referring to quantitative analysis of residents’/trainees’ perspectives. Specifically, we included studies that examined how the pandemic has affected clinical and research activities, the use of telemedicine, the delivery of education and the psychological status of residents. Of the 95460 studies identified through database searching, 12 studies met the full criteria and underwent data extraction. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impacts on neurology training programs, highlighting the need for resilience and flexibility in medical education. Future research should focus on the long-term outcomes of these adaptations in the quality of neurology education and patient care.
The Dysfunctional Mechanisms Throwing Tics: Structural and Functional Changes in Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Lamanna Jacopo , Ferro Mattia , Spadini Sara , Racchetti Gabriella , Malgaroli Antonio
Published: August 2023

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a high-incidence multifactorial neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by motor and vocal tics co-occurring with several diverse comorbidities, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The origin of TS is multifactorial, with strong genetic, perinatal, and immunological influences. Although almost all neurotransmettitorial systems have been implicated in TS pathophysiology, a comprehensive neurophysiological model explaining the dynamics of expression and inhibition of tics is still lacking. The genesis and maintenance of motor and non-motor aspects of TS are thought to arise from functional and/or structural modifications of the basal ganglia and related circuitry. This complex wiring involves several cortical and subcortical structures whose concerted activity controls the selection of the most appropriate reflexive and habitual motor, cognitive and emotional actions. Importantly, striatal circuits exhibit bidirectional forms of synaptic plasticity that differ in many respects from hippocampal and neocortical plasticity, including sensitivity to metaplastic molecules such as dopamine. Here, we review the available evidence about structural and functional anomalies in neural circuits which have been found in TS patients. Finally, considering what is known in the field of striatal plasticity, we discuss the role of exuberant plasticity in TS, including the prospect of future pharmacological and neuromodulation avenues.
Workplace Ostracism Effects on Employees’ Negative Health Outcomes: Focusing on the Mediating Role of Envy
Authors: Kim Hyunghoon , Jang Eunmi
Published: August 2023

Employee health is crucial to organizational success. However, workplace ostracism (WO) has significant negative effects on employee health. Numerous researchers have extensively examined how WO influences employees’ negative health (job stress, burnout); however, the focus on mediating effects in the relationship between WO and health has been lacking. This study examined the cognitive evaluation response to WO by employees who perceive they have been ostracized because another employee envies them. The psychological defense mechanism is expected to be activated—thus triggering job stress and burnout. We investigated envy perceived by individuals as a mediator of WO, job stress, and burnout using data from a 2-wave longitudinal survey of 403 employees of a South Korean firm. We found that employees perceived WO. Specifically, based on the sensitivity to being the target of a threatening upward comparison theory, it was confirmed that envy was a mediator in the relationship between WO and negative health outcomes. Our results are the first to show that the perception of envy can mediate the maintenance of a positive self-image in the context of WO in South Korea. The results suggest that a greater awareness of and focus on envy, and WO is required.
Experimental Study of Sulfate Erosion Resistance of Cementitious Sand with Waste Glass Powder
Authors: Yu Shuisheng , Wu Shuai , Zhao Yi , Yang Honghao
Published: August 2023

In order to save natural resources and protect the natural environment, the relevant performance of waste glass powder as a building material must be enhanced. In general, volcanic ash activity is enhanced through grinding the glass powder particles to a specific degree of fineness, thereby improving the overall strength of cementitious sand. Our current need is to study the effects of replacing standard sand with glass powder of varying particle size and dosage range on its resistance to sulfate erosion as well as the corresponding mechanisms. To further examine the durability properties of glass powder cementitious sand, this study uses glass powder of 100–200 mesh and 200–500 mesh to create cementitious sand samples, replacing 10% and 15% of standard sand with equal volume. After curing for 28 days in a standard curing room, the samples are submerged in tap water and a 5% concentration of sodium sulfate solution for 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 days. Subsequently, the mass loss rate, flexural strength, and compressive strength are measured to reflect the sulfate erosion resistance of the cementitious sand samples containing glass powder. The findings indicate that the flexural and compressive strengths of cementitious sand with waste glass powder experience a swift decline in strength during the pre-erosion stage and a slow decline or even an increase in strength during the post-erosion stage as erosion age progresses. As the glass powder dosage increases, there is a noticeable decrease in the flexural and compressive strengths, in which the doping of 200–500 mesh doped with 15% of glass powder has the worst effect on the resistance to sulfate erosion. As the particle size increases, both flexural and compressive strengths significantly improve, suggesting that sulfate erosion properties are gradually enhanced. The primary reason for this phenomenon is that when glass powder substitutes fine aggregate, the activity develops more slowly in the initial stage, primarily filling the pores and cracks. However, the activity increases rapidly later, more fully integrating with the cement mortar in sodium hydroxide’s hydration product to create dense hydrated calcium silicate crystals. This enhances the overall strength of the sample, filling the pore structure within the system, and is more conducive to resisting the erosion effect of sulfate ions on the sample.
Barriers to Adopting Lean Methodology in the Portuguese Construction Industry
Authors: Pedrosa Manuel , Arantes Amílcar , Cruz Carlos Oliveira
Published: August 2023

The Lean methodology allows for the streamlining of management and production systems to reduce costs. In the case of the construction sector, the goal is to optimize processes, reduce waste, increase product quality, and increase client satisfaction. These have been areas where construction, as a sector, is struggling to deliver substantial results. Despite the potential benefits associated with Lean approaches, there has been significant resistance from the construction industry. The main objective of this research is to identify the barriers to applying Lean methodology in the Portuguese construction sector. This will contribute to understanding why Lean is not gaining traction among construction stakeholders and help to identify improvement areas replicable in similar markets. Initially, the barriers were identified based on a comprehensive literature review, and those barriers were evaluated based on their importance using a survey responded to by construction sector professionals. Based on the survey’s results, 15 barriers were considered critical. Additionally, a combined ISM model and MICMAC analysis was developed to study the relations between these barriers and the driving and dependence power of each one of the critical barriers. The results obtained show that the main barriers are the lack of support and commitment from top management, a lack of organizational communication, a lack of communication and transparency between stakeholders, unsuitable organizational structures, a lack of adequate Lean awareness and understanding, management resistance to change, and employees’ aversion to change and fear of new procedures.
Confidentiality Preserved Federated Learning for Indoor Localization Using Wi-Fi Fingerprinting
Authors: Kumar Rajeev , Popli Renu , Khullar Vikas , Kansal Isha , Sharma Ashutosh
Published: August 2023

For the establishment of future ubiquitous location-aware applications, a scalable indoor localization technique is essential technology. Numerous classification techniques for indoor localization exist, but none have proven to be as quick, secure, and dependable as what is now needed. This research proposes an effective and privacy-protective federated architecture-based framework for location classification via Wi-Fi fingerprinting. The federated indoor localization classification (f-ILC) system that was suggested had distributed client–server architecture with data privacy for any and all related edge devices or clients. To try and evaluate the proposed f-ILC framework, different data from different sources on the Internet were collected and given in a format that had already been processed. Experiments were conducted with standard learning, federated learning with a single client, and federated learning with several clients to make sure that federated deep learning models worked correctly. The success of the f-ILC framework was computed using a number of factors, such as validation of accuracy and loss. The results showed that the suggested f-ILC framework performed better than traditional distributed deep learning-based classifiers in terms of accuracy and loss while keeping data secure. Due to its innovative design and superior performance over existing classifier tools, edge devices’ data privacy makes this proposed architecture the ideal solution.
Microglia Negatively Regulate the Proliferation and Neuronal Differentiation of Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells Isolated from Poststroke Mouse Brains
Authors: Hirano Yoshinobu , Nakagomi Takayuki , Nakano-Doi Akiko , Kubo Shuji , Minato Yusuke , Sawano Toshinori , Sakagami Masafumi , Tsuzuki Kenzo
Published: August 2023

We previously demonstrated that neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) were induced within and around the ischemic areas in a mouse model of ischemic stroke. These injury/ischemia-induced NSPCs (iNSPCs) differentiated to electrophysiologically functional neurons in vitro, indicating the presence of a self-repair system following injury. However, during the healing process after stroke, ischemic areas were gradually occupied by inflammatory cells, mainly microglial cells/macrophages (MGs/MΦs), and neurogenesis rarely occurred within and around the ischemic areas. Therefore, to achieve neural regeneration by utilizing endogenous iNSPCs, regulation of MGs/MΦs after an ischemic stroke might be necessary. To test this hypothesis, we used iNSPCs isolated from the ischemic areas after a stroke in our mouse model to investigate the role of MGs/MΦs in iNSPC regulation. In coculture experiments, we show that the presence of MGs/MΦs significantly reduces not only the proliferation but also the differentiation of iNSPCs toward neuronal cells, thereby preventing neurogenesis. These effects, however, are mitigated by MG/MΦ depletion using clodronate encapsulated in liposomes. Additionally, gene ontology analysis reveals that proliferation and neuronal differentiation are negatively regulated in iNSPCs cocultured with MGs/MΦs. These results indicate that MGs/MΦs negatively impact neurogenesis via iNSPCs, suggesting that the regulation of MGs/MΦs is essential to achieve iNSPC-based neural regeneration following an ischemic stroke.
Super Climate Events
Authors: Overland James E.
Published: August 2023

New environmental extremes are currently underway and are much greater than those in previous records. These are mostly regional, singular events that are caused by global change/local weather combinations and are larger than the impact of linear temperature increases projected using climate models. These new states cannot easily be assigned probabilities because they often have no historical analogs. Thus, the term super climate extremes is used. Examples are the loss of sea ice and ecosystem reorganization in northern marine Alaska, heatwave extreme in western Canada, and the loss of snow in Greenland. New combined extreme occurrences, which are reported almost daily, lead to a new, higher level of climate change urgency. The loss of sea ice in 2018–2019 was a result of warmer Arctic temperatures and changes in the jet stream. They resulted in a chain of impacts from southerly winds, the northward movement of predatory fish, and the reduction of food security for coastal communities. Record temperatures were measured in southwestern British Columbia following previous drought conditions, a confluence of two storm tracks, and warming through atmospheric subsidence. Greenland’s losses had clear skies and jet stream events. Such new extremes are present indicators of climate change. Their impacts result from the interaction between physical and ecological processes, and they justify the creation of a new climate change category based on super climate extremes.
Performance of LiTaO3 Crystals and Thin Films and Their Application
Authors: Xiao Xuefeng , Liang Shuaijie , Si Jiashun , Xu Qingyan , Zhang Huan , Ma Lingling , Yang Cui , Zhang Xuefeng
Published: August 2023

Lithium tantalate (LiTaO3, or LT) crystal is widely used in optical applications, infrared detection, and acoustic surface wave devices because of its excellent piezoelectric, pyroelectric, and nonlinear optical properties. In this paper, we discuss the defect structure of LT; the preparation method for LT; the influence of doping on LT; and LT’s application in optical, acoustic, and electrical devices. We mainly analyzed the structure and physical properties of LT crystal, the preparation of LT crystal and LT thin films, the periodic polarization of LT crystal, the reduction of LT wafers, and the application potential of LT crystals in lasers and acoustic surface filters according to the most recent research. We also provide an overview of future research directions for LT in the fields of acoustics, optics, and other fields. The applications of LT in 5G, 6G, SAW filters, nonlinear optical devices, and waveguides are expected to provide additional breakthroughs.
Two Birds with One Stone: Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Small Cell Lung Cancer Imaged with [18F]Fluorocholine Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography
Authors: Cuzzocrea Marco , Paone Gaetano , Treglia Giorgio
Published: August 2023

We describe the case of a 67-year-old male patient with a moderately differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) of the right liver lobe who underwent [18F]fluorocholine positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for staging due to a suspicious lung lesion at previous CT scan. [18F]fluorocholine PET/CT showed increased radiopharmaceutical uptake in a liver lesion corresponding to the known HCC. Furthermore, a right pulmonary hilar lesion suspicious for metastatic spread of HCC showed increased radiopharmaceutical uptake. Surprisingly, the histological assessment of the thoracic lesion demonstrated the presence of small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The patient underwent treatment with radiation therapy and chemotherapy for the SCLC and selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) for the HCC. The patient died after one year due to progressive SCLC. This case demonstrates that coexisting tumors showing increased cell membrane turnover, including SCLC, can be detected by [18F]fluorocholine PET/CT. In our case, [18F]fluorocholine PET/CT findings influenced the patient management in terms of histological verification and different treatment of the detected lesions.
Homeobox Gene Expression Dysregulation as Potential Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Chin Fee-Wai , Chan Soon-Choy , Veerakumarasivam Abhi
Published: August 2023

Homeobox genes serve as master regulatory transcription factors that regulate gene expression during embryogenesis. A homeobox gene may have either tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressive properties depending on the specific organ or cell lineage where it is expressed. The dysregulation of homeobox genes has been reported in various human cancers, including bladder cancer. The dysregulated expression of homeobox genes has been associated with bladder cancer clinical outcomes. Although bladder cancer has high risk of tumor recurrence and progression, it is highly challenging for clinicians to accurately predict the risk of tumor recurrence and progression at the initial point of diagnosis. Cystoscopy is the routine surveillance method used to detect tumor recurrence. However, the procedure causes significant discomfort and pain that results in poor surveillance follow-up amongst patients. Therefore, the development of reliable non-invasive biomarkers for the early detection and monitoring of bladder cancer is crucial. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnostic and prognostic potential of homeobox gene expression dysregulation in bladder cancer.
DR-NASNet: Automated System to Detect and Classify Diabetic Retinopathy Severity Using Improved Pretrained NASNet Model
Authors: Sajid Muhammad Zaheer , Hamid Muhammad Fareed , Youssef Ayman , Yasmin Javeria , Perumal Ganeshkumar , Qureshi Imran , Naqi Syed Muhammad , Abbas Qaisar
Published: August 2023

Diabetes is a widely spread disease that significantly affects people’s lives. The leading cause is uncontrolled levels of blood glucose, which develop eye defects over time, including Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), which results in severe visual loss. The primary factor causing blindness is considered to be DR in diabetic patients. DR treatment tries to control the disease’s severity, as it is irreversible. The primary goal of this effort is to create a reliable method for automatically detecting the severity of DR. This paper proposes a new automated system (DR-NASNet) to detect and classify DR severity using an improved pretrained NASNet Model. To develop the DR-NASNet system, we first utilized a preprocessing technique that takes advantage of Ben Graham and CLAHE to lessen noise, emphasize lesions, and ultimately improve DR classification performance. Taking into account the imbalance between classes in the dataset, data augmentation procedures were conducted to control overfitting. Next, we have integrated dense blocks into the NASNet architecture to improve the effectiveness of classification results for five severity levels of DR. In practice, the DR-NASNet model achieves state-of-the-art results with a smaller model size and lower complexity. To test the performance of the DR-NASNet system, a combination of various datasets is used in this paper. To learn effective features from DR images, we used a pretrained model on the dataset. The last step is to put the image into one of five categories: No DR, Mild, Moderate, Proliferate, or Severe. To carry this out, the classifier layer of a linear SVM with a linear activation function must be added. The DR-NASNet system was tested using six different experiments. The system achieves 96.05% accuracy with the challenging DR dataset. The results and comparisons demonstrate that the DR-NASNet system improves a model’s performance and learning ability. As a result, the DR-NASNet system provides assistance to ophthalmologists by describing an effective system for classifying early-stage levels of DR.
Improving Estimation of Tree Parameters by Fusing ALS and TLS Point Cloud Data Based on Canopy Gap Shape Feature Points
Authors: Zhou Rong , Sun Hua , Ma Kaisen , Tang Jie , Chen Song , Fu Liyong , Liu Qingwang
Published: August 2023

Airborne laser scanning (ALS) and terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) are two ways to obtain forest three-dimensional (3D) spatial information. Due to canopy occlusion and the features of different scanning methods, some of the forest point clouds acquired by a single scanning platform may be missing, resulting in an inaccurate estimation of forest structure parameters. Hence, the registration of ALS and TLS point clouds is an alternative for improving the estimation accuracy of forest structure parameters. Currently, forest point cloud registration is mainly conducted based on individual tree attributes (e.g., location, diameter at breast height, and tree height), but the registration is affected by individual tree segmentation and is inefficient. In this study, we proposed a method to automatically fuse ALS and TLS point clouds by using feature points of canopy gap shapes. First, the ALS and TLS canopy gap boundary vectors were extracted by the canopy point cloud density model, and the turning or feature points were obtained from the canopy gap vectors using the weighted effective area (WEA) algorithm. The feature points were then aligned, the transformation parameters were solved using the coherent point drift (CPD) algorithm, and the TLS point clouds were further aligned using the recovery transformation matrix and refined by utilizing the iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm. Finally, individual tree segmentations were performed to estimate tree parameters using the TLS and fusion point clouds, respectively. The results show that the proposed method achieved more accurate registration of ALS and TLS point clouds in four plots, with the average distance residuals of coarse and fine registration of 194.83 cm and 2.14 cm being much smaller compared with those from the widely used crown feature point-based method. Using the fused point cloud data led to more accurate estimates of tree height than using the TLS point cloud data alone. Thus, the proposed method has the potential to improve the registration of ALS and TLS point cloud data and the accuracy of tree height estimation.
OF-FSE: An Efficient Adaptive Equalization for QAM-Based UAV Modulation Systems
Authors: Zhang Luyao , Wang Zhongyong , Zheng Guhan
Published: August 2023

Quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) is one of the essential components of unmanned 1 aerial vehicle (UAV) communications. However, the output signal accuracy of QAM deteriorates dramatically and even collapses in the case of UAVs in a harsh channel environment. This is due to the fractionally spaced equalization based on the multi-modulus blind equalization algorithm being implemented prior to carrier synchronization in QAM-based UAV modulation systems. The carrier frequency offset from the harsh channel signal thus contributes to the significantly degraded performance of MMA by suffering the fractionally spaced equalization. Therefore, in this paper, a novel offset feedback fractionally spaced equalization architecture for UAVs to eliminate the carrier frequency offset is first proposed. In this architecture, the carrier frequency offset allows estimated and incorporation into the input signal of fractionally spaced equalization to compensate for the offset. Moreover, a new multi-modulus decision-directed algorithm is presented for the novel architecture to improve the received signal accuracy of UAVs further. It enables adaptive optimization of the convergence process in accordance with the dynamic UAV communication environment employing the multi-modulus blind equalization algorithm and decision-directed blind equalization algorithm (MDD). Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the OF-FSE framework in enabling the QAM-based UAV modulation systems operation in harsh channel scenarios. Moreover, the performance of the presented new MDD algorithm compared with baseline approaches is also confirmed.
Design of Low-Density Parity-Check Code Pair for Joint Source-Channel Coding Systems Based on Graph Theory
Authors: Lv Yijie , He Jiguang , Xu Weikai , Wang Lin
Published: August 2023

In this article, a graph-theoretic method (taking advantage of constraints among sets associated with the corresponding parity-check matrices) is applied for the construction of a double low-density parity-check (D-LDPC) code (also known as LDPC code pair) in a joint source-channel coding (JSCC) system. Specifically, we pre-set the girth of the parity-check matrix for the LDPC code pair when jointly designing the two LDPC codes, which are constructed by following the set constraints. The constructed parity-check matrices for channel codes comprise an identity submatrix and an additional submatrix, whose column weights can be pre-set to be any positive integer numbers. Simulation results illustrate that the constructed D-LDPC codes exhibit significant performance improvement and enhanced flexible frame length (i.e., adaptability under various channel conditions) compared with the benchmark code pair.
Stochastic Stabilization of Dual-Layer Rumor Propagation Model with Multiple Channels and Rumor-Detection Mechanism
Authors: Zhong Xiaojing , Luo Chaolong , Dong Xiaowu , Bai Dingyong , Liu Guiyun , Xie Ying , Peng Yuqing
Published: August 2023

With the development of information technology, individuals are able to receive rumor information through various channels and subsequently act based on their own perceptions. The significance of the disparity between media and individual cognition in the propagation of rumors cannot be underestimated. In this paper, we establish a dual-layer rumor propagation model considering the differences in individual cognition to study the propagation behavior of rumors in multiple channels. Firstly, we obtain the threshold for rumor disappearance or persistence by solving the equilibrium points and their stability. The threshold is related to the number of media outlets and the number of rumor debunkers. Moreover, we have innovatively designed a class of non-periodic intermittent noise stabilization methods to suppress rumor propagation. This method can effectively control rumor propagation based on a flexible control scheme, and we provide specific expressions for the control intensity. Finally, we have validated the accuracy of the theoretical proofs through experimental simulations.
Social Innovations for the Achievement of Competitive Agriculture and the Sustainable Development of Peripheral Rural Areas
Authors: Deže Jadranka , Sudarić Tihana , Tolić Snježana
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the study was to analyze social innovations in a broader context in order to achieve sustainable development goals. In terms of a response to the research questions, a comprehensive analysis of an alteration process in rural development was conducted while identifying the social innovations, highlighting the good practices, and conceptualizing the social innovation typology of peripheral rural areas. The methodology included a comparative analysis addressing three European regions, namely Northern, Central, and Western Europe, represented by Finland, Croatia, and France, respectively, together with their nine good practice examples during a biennial RUR’UP project period. The results demonstrate the typological differences between the selected examples of social innovations that stimulate the rural development of peripheral rural areas. These examples were formulated by the different social conditions in which these innovations were created. As a traditional economic activity in rural areas, agriculture is a great challenge for the application of innovations, can effectuate changes in the economic activities of the rural population, and can promote social and economic sustainability. In conclusion, significant differences among the regions were proven on the basis of social, environmental, and economic impacts arising from the application of social innovation.
Offshore Wind Power Potential in Brazil: Complementarity and Synergies
Authors: Nogueira Erika Carvalho , Morais Rafael Cancella , Pereira Amaro Olimpio
Published: August 2023

Renewable sources stand out in energy planning due to their contribution to greenhouse gas emission reduction when displacing fossil fuels and the enhancement of energy security through the diversification of the energy matrix. Understanding and optimizing the complementary operative synergy between different energy sources over time and space leads to efficient policies. This article uses an hourly Pearson’s correlation coefficient to explore the complementarity between offshore wind and other power generation sources in the Brazilian matrix. An analysis of offshore wind power feasibility in the Brazilian power system will be conducted, considering environmental implications, synergies with the oil industry, costs, and complementarities with other energy sources. The methodology uses an optimization model to minimize costs and optimize the production mix while considering the time series of renewable energy, subject to demand constraints, renewable resource availability, reservoir storage, capacity limitations, and thermal generation. The study concludes that the northeast and southeast electrical subsystems must start offshore wind installation in Brazil due to their complementarity with hydropower production, synergy with the oil and gas industry, and proximity to the largest consumption spots.
Coprecipitation Synthesis and Impedance Studies on Electrode Interface Characteristics of 0.5Li2MnO3·0.5Li(Ni0.44Mn0.44Co0.12)O2 Cathode Material
Authors: Zhao Xing , Wang Peng , Wang Yan , Chao Peipei , Dong Honglei
Published: August 2023

The nanoscale 0.5Li2MnO3·0.5Li(Ni0.44Mn0.44Co0.12)O2 Li-manganese-rich electrode material was synthesized by the co-precipitate method, and its electrochemical properties were systematically analyzed, especially the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The failure of the electrode interface and the structural transformation of the material at high potential are the main reasons for the deterioration of the Li-manganese-rich electrode, and high temperatures accelerate the deterioration. Based on the systematic analysis of the induced reactance change with electrode polarization potential, it is found that the induced reactance of a Li-manganese-rich electrode is not only related to the degree of delithiation/lithiation but also has a great relationship with the performance of the electrode/electrolyte interface. This conclusion is beneficial for the manufacturing of battery failure analysis by providing a theoretical basis for guidance.
Review of Estimating and Predicting Models of the Wind Energy Amount
Authors: Simankov Vladimir , Buchatskiy Pavel , Teploukhov Semen , Onishchenko Stefan , Kazak Anatoliy , Chetyrbok Petr
Published: August 2023

Obtaining wind energy for the production of electric energy plays a key role in overcoming the problems associated with climate change and the dwindling reserves of traditional types of energy resources. The purpose of this work is to analyze current methods of energy estimation and forecasting, to consider the main classifications of forecasts and methods used in their construction and to review the main types of mathematical distributions used to calculate the speed and power of wind flow, depending on specific geographical conditions. In recent years, there has been an increase in the capacity of modern wind generators, which has significantly improved the efficiency of wind energy parks. The initial stage in determining the feasibility of involving a particular energy source in the overall energy system of the region is a preliminary assessment of the energy potential, allowing one to determine the possible percentage of substitution of traditional energy. To solve such a problem, it is necessary to use models of energy supply. Evaluation of wind as a resource creates certain difficulties in modeling because this resource is stochastic and variable. In this regard, this paper proposes to consider various models for estimating wind energy potential, which can be classified into empirical models and models based on the application of modern intelligent data analysis technologies. The paper presents an analysis of the existing models for estimating the amount of energy, which can be used in a system designed to determine the most optimal configuration of the energy system based on the use of different conversion technologies most relevant to the case under study, and it also serves as the basis for creating digital twins designed to model and optimize the operation of the projected energy complex.
The Growing Dynamic of Pure Scots Pine Stands Using Different Thinning Regimes in Lithuania
Authors: Linkevičius Edgaras , Šilinskas Benas , Beniušienė Lina , Aleinikovas Marius , Kliučius Almantas
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study is to relate initial stand density and thinning intensity to tree diameter, height, and volume increment based on continuous 30-year observations in thinning experimental stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.). The thinning experiments on Scots pine were established in 1990 and 1992, and the experimental model in each trial comprised five density variants: control and four plots with tree densities up to 3.0–4.4, 2.0–2.4, 1.0–1.2, and 0.5–0.6 thousand trees per hectare after the initial thinning. Since the establishment, only the dead trees were removed in control plots, and other initial density plots were thinned according to predefined thinning treatment plans. Our study shows that the lowest increment in diameter was found in control plots and the highest in the most intensive thinning plots, in which the diameter increment was 1.5 times higher. However, the intensification of thinning and the signs of growth stabilization in the control stands cannot guarantee them the position of highest productivity and cumulative volume in the future.
Cheese Fermented with Human-Derived Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and Mushroom Powders: A Novel Psychobiotic Food with Enhanced Bioactivity and Sensory Acceptability
Authors: Jovanović Marina , Vojvodić Petar , Tenji Dina , Tomić Nina , Nešić Jovana , Mitić-Ćulafić Dragana , Miočinović Jelena
Published: August 2023

Fermented foods containing psychobiotics are of growing interest among food scientists. Human-derived Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, a gut symbiont and potential psychobiotic strain, has been shown to exhibit the following health benefits: anti-inflammation and GABA-production capacity, as well as modulation of pathogen and cancer cell growth. The aim of this research was to develop an acid-coagulated fresh soft quark-type cheese, fermented with L. reuteri DSM 17938, with enhanced bioactivity, sensory acceptability, and overall likeability. Psychobiotic-containing cheeses represent the food of a new generation, so it is of great importance to gain the trust of the consumers. To develop a familiar taste, cheese samples were enriched with mushroom powders of Agaricus bisporus and Pleurotus ostreatus. A high abundance of lactic acid bacteria was maintained in all cheese samples (>log 7.64 CFU/mL), while cheese extracts exhibited cytotoxicity to colon cancer cell line HCT116 (up to 30.96%) in vitro. Additionally, cheese samples provided a favorable medium for the growth of the probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (>log 7.11 CFU/mL). Sensory evaluation revealed high scores for all samples (up to 97.21% of maximum overall quality). The survey conducted in this study offered insights into consumer willingness to try products containing psychobiotics. This study demonstrates the potential for the successful development of fermented food products with L. reuteri DSM 17938, which exhibits all the desired traits that consumers may receive well. Further research is required to explore the potential health benefits of these innovative food products.