bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclic Storage Chamber Ozonation as a Method to Inhibit Ethylene Generation during Plum Fruit Storage
Authors: Matłok Natalia , Piechowiak Tomasz , Krempa Amanda , Puchalski Czesław , Balawejder Maciej
Published: December 2023

This study presents a method for inhibiting ethylene production during the room-temperature storage of plum fruits, using gaseous ozone (O3). The proposed storage strategy involves the cyclic ozone treatment of fruits every 24 h with specified O3 doses. Throughout the storage period, cyclic analyses of the atmosphere composition in storage chambers were conducted, measuring ethylene and carbon dioxide levels. Several parameters describing changes in fruit quality and biochemical transformations were systematically monitored until the end of the storage process. The results clearly indicate that fruits subjected to cyclic ozone treatment with the highest O3 doses during storage exhibit the slowest ripening rate. This reduced ripening rate is primarily attributed to the downregulation of S-adenosylmethionine synthetase expression, leading to a lower ethylene concentration in the storage chambers. Other obtained results concerning soluble solid content, titratable acidity, total polyphenols, anthocyanins, and vitamin C content confirm the observations regarding the impact of ozone treatment in slowing down the fruit ripening process. The best outcomes were achieved by applying a cyclic ozone process with a 100 ppm dose for 30 min.
Applications of Ionic Liquids in the Field of Agriculture: A Review
Authors: Wang Zijun , Qin Xin , Dong Hongqiang , Liang You , Huo Zhongyang , Qian Kun , Yang Fengping
Published: December 2023

This review delves into the diverse applications of ionic liquids (ILs) in modern agriculture, focusing on their pivotal roles in the extraction of natural products and pesticides, as well as their substantial significance in sustainable pesticide delivery systems. The reported extraction methods include ILs and their modified materials as solvents in dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, solid-phase dispersion, and solid-phase microextraction. The study categorizes ILs according to their utility as herbicides, microbicides, food repellents, and plant growth regulators. This review investigates the use of ILs as plant immunity inducers to elevate the systemic acquired resistance in crops, thereby augmenting their intrinsic ability to defend against plant pathogens. Furthermore, the review explores the application of ILs in pesticide delivery systems, emphasizing their ability to enhance efficacy while promoting environmental sustainability. The biodegradability and toxicity aspects of ILs are also discussed, shedding light on their potential as eco-friendly alternatives in agricultural practices. In conclusion, this comprehensive overview underscores the multifaceted contributions of ILs in agriculture, from efficient extraction methods to the development of innovative and sustainable pesticide delivery systems. As the agricultural landscape evolves towards environmentally conscious practices, the integration of ILs presents a promising avenue for enhancing productivity while minimizing ecological impact. As the agricultural industry seeks innovative and sustainable solutions, the nuanced exploration of ILs in this review highlights their potential to address multiple challenges in modern farming practices.
Integrating Spectral, Textural, and Morphological Data for Potato LAI Estimation from UAV Images
Authors: Bian Mingbo , Chen Zhichao , Fan Yiguang , Ma Yanpeng , Liu Yang , Chen Riqiang , Feng Haikuan
Published: December 2023

The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is a crucial indicator of crop photosynthetic potential, which is of great significance in farmland monitoring and precision management. This study aimed to predict potato plant LAI for potato plant growth monitoring, integrating spectral, textural, and morphological data through UAV images and machine learning. A new texture index named VITs was established by fusing multi-channel information. Vegetation growth features (Vis and plant height Hdsm) and texture features (TIs and VITs) were obtained from drone digital images. Various feature combinations (VIs, VIs + TIs, VIs + VITs, VIs + VITs + Hdsm) in three growth stages were adopted to monitor potato plant LAI using Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR), Support Vector Regression (SVR), random forest (RF), and eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), so as to find the best feature combinations and machine learning method. The performance of the newly built VITs was tested. Compared with traditional TIs, the estimation accuracy was obviously improved for all the growth stages and methods, especially in the tuber-growth stage using the RF method with 13.6% of R2 increase. The performance of Hdsm was verified by including it either as one input feature or not. Results showed that Hdsm could raise LAI estimation accuracy in every growth stage, whichever method is used. The most significant improvement appeared in the tuber-formation stage using SVR, with an 11.3% increase of R2. Considering both the feature combinations and the monitoring methods, the combination of VIs + VITs + Hdsm achieved the best results for all the growth stages and simulation methods. The best fitting of LAI in tuber-formation, tuber-growth, and starch-accumulation stages had an R2 of 0.92, 0.83, and 0.93, respectively, using the XGBoost method. This study showed that the combination of different features enhanced the simulation of LAI for multiple growth stages of potato plants by improving the monitoring accuracy. The method presented in this study can provide important references for potato plant growth monitoring.
Conflicting Evidence between Clinical Perception and Molecular Epidemiology: The Case of Fowl Adenovirus D
Authors: Franzo Giovanni , Faustini Giulia , Tucciarone Claudia Maria , Pasotto Daniela , Legnardi Matteo , Cecchinato Mattia
Published: December 2023

Fowl adenoviruses (FAdVs, species FAdV-A/-E) are responsible for several clinical syndromes reported with increasing frequency in poultry farms in the last decades. In the present study, a phylodynamic analysis was performed on a group of FAdV-D Hexon sequences with adequate available metadata. The obtained results demonstrated the long-term circulation of this species, at least several decades before the first identification of the disease. After a period of progressive increase, the viral population showed a high-level circulation from approximately the 1960s to the beginning of the new millennium, mirroring the expansion of intensive poultry production and animal trade. At the same time, strain migration occurred mainly from Europe to other continents, although other among-continent connections were estimated. Thereafter, the viral population declined progressively, likely due to the improved control measures, potentially including the development and application of FAdV vaccines. An increase in the viral evolutionary rate featured this phase. A role of vaccine-induced immunity in shaping viral evolution could thus be hypothesized. Accordingly, several sites of the Hexon, especially those targeted by the host response were proven under a significant pervasive or episodic diversifying selection. The present study results demonstrate the role of intensive poultry production and market globalization in the rise of FAdV. The applied control strategies, on the other hand, were effective in limiting viral circulation and shaping its evolution.
Feeding Ractopamine Improves the Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of the Lard-Type Mangalica Pig
Authors: Reeves Pitts Maegan A. , Smith Hunter R. , Amerson Ellie C. , Starkey Jessica D. , Starkey Charles W. , Sawyer Jason T. , Brandebourg Terry D.
Published: December 2023

Mangalica pigs are gaining popularity within the U.S. as a niche breed, given their reputation for superior-quality pork. However, slow growth rates, a poor lean yield, and excessive adiposity limit the widespread adoption of Mangalica. To determine if feeding the metabolic modifier, ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC), would improve growth performance without impairing pork quality in the Mangalica, pigs were fed either 0 or 20 mg per kg RAC for 21 days. At 24 h postharvest, pork quality and carcass composition measurements were recorded; then, primal cuts were fabricated and assessed. RAC increased ADG (p < 0.04) and gain efficiency (p < 0.03) by 24% and 21%, respectively. RAC increased Loin Eye Area (p < 0.0001) by 21% but did not impact the 10th rib fat depth (p > 0.90) or marbling score (p > 0.77). RAC failed to alter any primal cut weights. Feeding RAC lowered b* values (p < 0.04) and tended to lower L* values (p < 0.08) while not affecting a* values (p > 0.30), suggesting RAC darkened loin color. Finally, RAC decreased cook yield percentage (p < 0.02) by 11% without impacting Warner-Bratzler Shear Force (p > 0.31). These data support the hypothesis that feeding RAC to Mangalica improves growth performance without impairing pork quality in this breed.
Opportunities to Improve Animal Welfare during Transport and Slaughter of Cattle and Pigs through Staff Training—Results of a Delphi Survey
Authors: Eichler Fabienne , Duckwitz Veronica , Isbrandt Rudi , Nicolaisen Svea , Langkabel Nina , Wiegard Mechthild , Meemken Diana , Thöne-Reineke Christa , Doherr Marcus G.
Published: December 2023

To improve animal welfare for cattle and pigs during transport and at slaughter, online training modules for all staff including employees in the lairage pen, the slaughter line as well as animal welfare officers are developed at Freie Universität Berlin, Germany. Before starting the development of these modules, an expert elicitation survey using a modified Delphi approach was performed to identify action points considered most relevant for animal welfare during transport and slaughter, and as having the potential for improvement through training. In total, 49 participating experts rated predetermined action points of each step in the transport and slaughter process in two survey rounds. The rating scale included numbers 0 (=‘not relevant’, respectively ‘no possibility of improvement’) to 10 (=‘very relevant’, respectively ‘very high possibility of improvement’). None of the action points were rated with a median score of less than 5. Assessment of fitness for transport, unloading at the abattoir, handling at stunning and exsanguination were amongst the highest rated action points, and were therefore selected to develop online training modules. The Delphi approach was seen as a valuable method to include external expertise to select the most relevant action points for the development of online training modules.
Effects of Dietary Limosilactobacillus fermentum and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Supplementation on the Intestinal Stem Cell Proliferation, Immunity, and Ileal Microbiota of Broiler Chickens Challenged by Coccidia and Clostridium perfringens
Authors: Guo Shuangshuang , Tong Wenfei , Qi Ya , Jiang Meihan , Li Peng , Zhang Zhengfan , Hu Qunbing , Song Zhuan , Ding Binying
Published: December 2023

This study was conducted to investigate effects of dietary Limosilactobacillus fermentum and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei supplementation on the intestinal stem cell proliferation, immunity, and ileal microbiota of broiler chickens challenged by coccidia and Clostridium perfringens. A total of 336 one-day-old Ross 308 chickens were randomly assigned into four groups. Chickens in the control (CTR) group were fed basal diet, and chickens in the three challenged groups were fed basal diets supplemented with nothing (CCP group), 1.0 × 109 CFU/kg L. fermentum (LF_CCP group), and 1.0 × 109 CFU/kg L. paracasei (LP_CCP group), respectively. All challenged birds were infected with coccildia on day 9 and Clostridium perfringens during days 13–18. The serum and intestinal samples were collected on days 13 and 19. The results showed that L. fermentum significantly increased jejunal gene expression of cdxB (one of the intestinal stem cell marker genes) on day 13. Additionally, L. fermentum significantly up-regulated mRNA levels of JAK3 and TYK2 and tended to increase STAT6 mRNA expression in jejunum on day 19. In the cecal tonsil, both L. fermentum and L. paracasei decreased mRNA expression of JAK2 on day 13, and L. fermentum down-regulated JAK1-2, STAT1, and STAT5-6 gene expressions on day 19. Ileal microbiological analysis showed that coccidial infection increased the Escherichia–Shigella, Lactobacillus, and Romboutsia abundance and decreased Candidatus_Arthromitus richness on day 13, which were reversed by Lactobacillus intervention. Moreover, Lactobacilli increased ileal Lactobacillus richness on day 19. In conclusion, Lactobacilli alleviated the impairment of intestinal stem cell proliferation and immunity in coccidia- and C. perfringens-challenged birds via modulating JAK/STAT signaling and reshaping intestinal microflora.
Colistin Effects on Emphysematous Lung in an LPS-Sepsis Model
Authors: Stamatiou Rodopi , Vasilaki Anna , Tzini Dimitra , Deskata Konstantina , Zacharouli Konstantina , Ioannou Maria , Sgantzos Markos , Zakynthinos Epaminondas , Makris Demosthenes
Published: December 2023

Emphysema is prevalent in various respiratory diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis. Colistin and vasoconstrictive drugs are crucial for treating these patients when diagnosed with sepsis in the ICU. This study examines colistin impact in ether-induced emphysematous septic and non-septic animals, focusing on lung pathophysiology and inflammatory responses, including IL-1β, TNF-α, AMPK, caspase-3, cyclin-D1, and colistin levels in lung tissue. All animals exhibited significant emphysematous changes, accentuated by LPS-induced septic conditions, validating the emphysema model and highlighting the exacerbating effect of sepsis on lung pathology. Colistin, alone or with vasoconstrictive drugs, stimulated immune responses through increased inflammatory cell infiltration and the presence of lymphocytes, indicating potential immunomodulatory effects. Vasoconstriction did not alter the effects of colistin or sepsis but correlated with increased colistin levels in the lungs of septic animals. These observations suggest a potential interplay between vasoconstrictive drugs and colistin distribution/metabolism, leading to enhanced local concentrations of colistin in the lung microenvironment. The findings suggest the need for further investigations to optimize colistin and vasoconstrictive drug delivery in critically ill patients with lung pathologies. Understanding these complexities may guide more effective management of inflammatory responses and lung pathologies in these critical conditions.
Characterization of the Metabolic Profile of Olive Tissues (Roots, Stems and Leaves): Relationship with Cultivars’ Resistance/Susceptibility to the Soil Fungus Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Serrano-García Irene , Olmo-García Lucía , Monago-Maraña Olga , de Alba Iván Muñoz Cabello , León Lorenzo , de la Rosa Raúl , Serrano Alicia , Gómez-Caravaca Ana María , Carrasco-Pancorbo Alegría
Published: December 2023

Verticillium wilt of olive (VWO) is one of the most widespread and devastating olive diseases in the world. Harnessing host resistance to the causative agent is considered one of the most important measures within an integrated control strategy of the disease. Aiming to understand the mechanisms underlying olive resistance to VWO, the metabolic profiles of olive leaves, stems and roots from 10 different cultivars with varying levels of susceptibility to this disease were investigated by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The distribution of 56 metabolites among the three olive tissues was quantitatively assessed and the possible relationship between the tissues’ metabolic profiles and resistance to VWO was evaluated by applying unsupervised and supervised multivariate analysis. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to explore the data, and separate clustering of highly resistant and extremely susceptible cultivars was observed. Moreover, partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) models were built to differentiate samples of highly resistant, intermediate susceptible/resistant, and extremely susceptible cultivars. Root models showed the lowest classification capability, but metabolites from leaf and stem were able to satisfactorily discriminate samples according to the level of susceptibility. Some typical compositional patterns of highly resistant and extremely susceptible cultivars were described, and some potential resistance/susceptibility metabolic markers were pointed out.
A Vision-Based Micro-Manipulation System
Authors: Vismanis Oskars , Arents Janis , Subačiūtė-Žemaitienė Jurga , Bučinskas Vytautas , Dzedzickis Andrius , Patel Brijesh , Tung Wei-Cheng , Lin Po-Ting , Greitans Modris
Published: December 2023

This research article outlines the design and methodology employed in the development of a vision-based micro-manipulation system, emphasizing its constituent components. While the system is initially tailored for applications involving living cells, its adaptability to other objects is highlighted. The integral components include an image enhancement module for data preparation, an object detector trained on the pre-processed data, and a precision micro-manipulator for actuating towards detected objects. Each component undergoes rigorous precision testing, revealing that the proposed image enhancement, when combined with the object detector, outperforms conventional methods. Additionally, the micro-manipulator shows excellent results for working with living cells the size of yeast. In the end, the components are also tested in a combined system as a proof-of-concept.
Study on Tightening, Anti-Loosening, and Fatigue Resistance Performances of Bolted Joints with Different Anti-Loosening Washers and Nuts
Authors: Zhao Penghao , Liu Jianhua , Gong Hao , Xue Fenqi
Published: December 2023

Loosening failure of bolted joints often occurs in a vibration environment. This may induce the separation of clamped components and even result in catastrophic consequences in certain situations. Various anti-loosening bolted connections have been developed and widely applied to prevent loosening. Tightening and fatigue resistance performances are also two important characteristics of anti-loosening bolted connections. However, a comprehensive comparison study of the tightening, anti-loosening, and fatigue resistance performances of typical anti-loosening bolted connections is lacking, meaning that there is a lack of material to assist in the selection of anti-loosening bolted connections in engineering. In this study, accurate three-dimensional finite element models of typical anti-loosening bolted connections with the forms of washers or nuts are established. The processes of tightening, vibration-induced loosening, and fatigue are simulated via finite element analysis (FEA). Based on the results of FEA, the tightening, anti-loosening, and fatigue resistance performances of regular bolted joints and several anti-loosening bolted connections are comprehensively compared. The results reveal that bolted joints installed with both a variable-diameter nut and an eccentric double nut are difficult to tighten. We confirm that the researched structures all have superior anti-loosening capacities compared to regular bolted joints. Additionally, the results show that the regular bolted joint achieved the worst fatigue resistance performance, i.e., the application of anti-loosening bolted connections improves fatigue resistance. Finally, the effects of preload distributions on the two nuts in bolted joints with double nuts are discussed in terms of tightening, anti-loosening, and fatigue resistance performances.
Use of Tens in the Diagnosis of Functional Mandibular Lateral Deviation
Authors: Ortu Eleonora , Di Nicolantonio Sara , Mummolo Alessandra , Cattaneo Ruggero , Pietropaoli Davide , Monaco Annalisa
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The traditional diagnosis of functional lateral deviation is based on a clinical evaluation and dental casts, supported by an instrumental analysis through X-rays; however, these diagnostic techniques do not provide any information about the neuromuscular system. Several years ago, some authors stressed the importance of the mandibular rest position and its reproducibility as a diagnostic reference, and this became possible with the development of the Myomonitor, TENS. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare mandible position before and after the use of ultra-low-frequency transcutaneous electric nervous stimulation (ULFTENS) in children with diagnosed functional mandibular lateral deviation. Methods: This study was performed on 60 children, aged between 8 and 13 years, with a mean age of 10.1 years (SD 0.81), and with functional mandibular lateral deviation diagnosed clinically, who were referred to the dental clinic for pediatric dental care. Diagnostic neuromuscular registrations were made for all children, and their casts were mounted on a Galetti articulator at the myocentric position. These casts were then compared to those provided by a wax bite registration in the intercuspidal position. Results: Compared with the existing intercuspidal position, neuromuscular registration showed improvement in 30 (50%) patients, 18 patients (30%) showed no changes, and worsening of the tooth midline discrepancy was assessed in the remaining 12 (20%). The molar relationship did not follow the same trend of the midline because of the three-dimensional changes in the maxillo–mandibular relationship induced by TENS. After TENS, there was a significant correlation between the midline and right side deviation (r > 0.65); there was no correlation between the midline and the left side (r < 0.65). Furthermore, the right molar movement showed no correlation with the contralateral molar (r < 0.65). The posterior areas of the arch moved in a very unpredictable way, resulting in the diagnosis and prognosis of mandibular lateral deviation as absolutely individual and unpredictable. Conclusions: This study suggests that TENS-recorded occlusion is an interesting diagnostic approach in orthodontics since it allows for visualizing the trends of the neuromuscular system.
From Cyber–Physical Convergence to Digital Twins: A Review on Edge Computing Use Case Designs
Authors: Hlophe Mduduzi C. , Maharaj Bodhaswar T.
Published: December 2023

As a result of the new telecommunication ecosystem landscape, wireless communication has become an interdisciplinary field whose future is shaped by several interacting dimensions. These interacting dimensions, which form the cyber–physical convergence, closely link the technological perspective to its social, economic, and cognitive sciences counterparts. Beyond the current operational framework of the Internet of Things (IoT), network devices will be equipped with capabilities for learning, thinking, and understanding so that they can autonomously make decisions and take appropriate actions. Through this autonomous operation, wireless networking will be ushered into a paradigm that is primarily inspired by the efficient and effective use of (i) AI strategies, (ii) big data analytics, as well as (iii) cognition. This is the Cognitive Internet of People Processes Data and Things (CIoPPD&T), which can be defined in terms of the cyber–physical convergence. In this article, through the discussion of how the cyber–physical convergence and the interacting dynamics of the socio-technical ecosystem are enablers of digital twins (DTs), the network DT (NDT) is discussed in the context of 6G networks. Then, the design and realization of edge computing-based NDTs are discussed, which culminate with the vehicle-to-edge (V2E) use cases.
Probabilistic Assessment of the Intake of Trace Elements by Consumption of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) and Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Meat
Authors: Sevillano-Morales J. , Sevillano-Caño J. , Amaro-López M. A. , Cámara-Martos F.
Published: December 2023

The aim of this work was to study the nutritional value of game meat through the fulfillments of Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) for trace elements (Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Se, and Zn). A probabilistic model (@Risk) was developed based on the consumption data of hunter-consumers obtained from a previously published survey. Two game species widely consumed in Europe were selected: red deer (Cervus elaphus) and wild boar (Sus scrofa). Red deer muscle had the highest content of Cr (0.25 mg/kg) and Zn (44.3 mg/kg) and wild boar muscle recorded the highest Cu (2.23 mg/kg), Ni (0.60 mg/kg), and Se (0.19 mg/kg), showing statistically significant differences between the two species for these elements. No statistically significant differences were found for Fe between both game species (red deer: 52.9 mg/kg and wild boar: 53.3 mg/kg). Co content in this kind of meat was negligible for both species. The results obtained from the simulation of the probabilistic model with red deer indicated that a consumption once per week of this meat fulfills Cr, Fe, and Zn DRIs for the 95th percentile in hunter-consumers. Regarding wild boar, the values obtained also fulfill the Fe DRI and were between 61 and 75% for the rest of the trace elements analyzed.
Secure and Efficient Deduplication for Cloud Storage with Dynamic Ownership Management
Authors: Lee Mira , Seo Minhye
Published: December 2023

Cloud storage services have become indispensable in resolving the constraints of local storage and ensuring data accessibility from anywhere at any time. Data deduplication technology is utilized to decrease storage space and bandwidth requirements. This technology has the potential to save up to 90% of space by eliminating redundant data in cloud storage. The secure data sharing in cloud (SeDaSC) protocol is an efficient data-sharing solution supporting secure deduplication. In the SeDaSC protocol, a cryptographic server (CS) encrypts clients’ data on behalf of clients to reduce their computational overhead, but this essentially requires complete trust in the CS. Moreover, the SeDaSC protocol does not consider data deduplication. To address these issues, we propose a secure deduplication protocol based on the SeDaSC protocol that minimizes the computational cost of clients while leveraging trust in the CS. Our protocol enhances data privacy and ensures computational efficiency for clients. Moreover, it dynamically manages client ownership, satisfying forward and backward secrecy.
Study of High Transmittance of SiO2/Nb2O5 Multilayer Thin Films Deposited by Plasma-Assisted Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Kim Soyoung , In Jung-Hwan , Kim Seon Hoon , Han Karam , Lim Dongkook , Hwang Yun Sik , Lee Kyung Min , Choi Ju Hyeon
Published: December 2023

SiO2/Nb2O5 multilayer thin films were designed for the special application of an aviation lighting system emitting green light. For optical components in this system to meet requirements such as a high transmittance and durability, SiO2/Nb2O5 multilayer thin films of 60 individual layers were fabricated by a plasma-assisted reactive magnetron sputtering method. As a result, the transmittance spectra were confirmed to have a flat top surface and a square bandwidth. The transmittances of the SiO2/Nb2O5 multilayer thin films in the range of 500 nm to 550 nm was approximately 96.14%. The reason for high transmittance was attributed to the almost matching between the designed and fabricated SiO2/Nb2O5 multilayer thin films. It was found that there was little difference in the total thickness between the designed and fabricated SiO2/Nb2O5 multilayer thin films without interlayer diffusion. The surface roughness and hardness of the SiO2/Nb2O5 multilayer thin films on a glass substrate was 2.32 nm ± 0.19 nm and 6.6 GPa, respectively. These results indicate that SiO2/Nb2O5 multilayer thin films can be applied not only to the optical filters used in aviation lighting devices, but also to various optics applications because of high transmittance.
AI for Computational Vision, Natural Language Processing, and Geoinformatics
Authors: Zheng Wenfeng , Liu Mingzhe , Li Kenan , Liu Xuan
Published: December 2023

The rapid development of artificial intelligence technology has had a huge impact on the fields of computer vision, natural language processing, and geographic information applications [...]
Invisible Shield: Unveiling an Efficient Watermarking Solution for Medical Imaging Security
Authors: Odeh Ammar , Taleb Anas Abu , Alhajahjeh Tareq , Navarro Francisco
Published: December 2023

Securing medical imaging poses a significant challenge in preserving the confidentiality of healthcare data. Numerous research efforts have focused on fortifying these images, with encryption emerging as a primary solution for maintaining data integrity without compromising confidentiality. However, applying conventional encryption techniques directly to e-health data encounters hurdles, including limitations in data size, redundancy, and capacity, particularly in open-channel patient data transmissions. As a result, the unique characteristics of images, marked by their risk of data loss and the need for confidentiality, make preserving the privacy of data contents a complex task. This underscores the pressing need for innovative approaches to ensure the security and confidentiality of sensitive healthcare information within medical images. The proposed algorithm outperforms referenced algorithms in both image fidelity and steganographic capacity across diverse medical imaging modalities. It consistently achieves higher Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) values, indicating superior image fidelity, reduced noise, and preserved signal quality in CT, MRI, ultrasound, and X-ray modalities. The experimental results demonstrate a considerable improvement in both the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and maximum embedding capacity. Specifically, the average PSNR value for the X-ray modality reached a notable 73 dB, signifying superior image quality. Moreover, the CT modality exhibited the highest maximum embedding capacity, measured at 0.52, showcasing its efficiency in accommodating data within the images. Moreover, the algorithm consistently offers increased steganographic data hiding capacity in these images without perceptibly degrading their quality or integrity.
A New Species of the Shrimp Genus Salmoneus Holthuis, 1955 (Malacostraca: Decapoda: Alpheidae) from the Exposed Shores of Eastern and Southern Oman
Authors: Anker Arthur
Published: December 2023

Salmoneus sultanus sp. nov. is described based on several specimens collected on the exposed shores of Masirah Island and Dhofar, Oman, a region characterised by seasonal upwellings cooling water temperature to less than 23 °C. The new species is compared with the morphologically most similar congeners present in the north-western Indian Ocean, e.g., S. latirostris (Coutière, 1897), S. cristatus (Coutière, 1897), S. serratidigitus (Coutière, 1897), and S. chadwickae Ďuriš and Horká, 2016; the latter species is recorded for the first time from Oman. The conspicuous colour pattern of S. sultanus sp. nov. appears to be diagnostic, differing greatly from that of S. latirostris, S. cristatus, S. serratidigitus, and S. chadwickae.
Calibration of the Ångström–Prescott Model for Accurately Estimating Solar Radiation Spatial Distribution in Areas with Few Global Solar Radiation Stations: A Case Study of the China Tropical Zone
Authors: Yu Xuan , Yi Xia , Li Mao-Fen , Dai Shengpei , Li Hailiang , Luo Hongxia , Zheng Qian , Hu Yingying
Published: December 2023

The Ångström–Prescott formula is commonly used in climatological calculation methods of solar radiation simulation. Aiming at the characteristics of a vast area, few meteorological stations, and uneven distribution in the tropical regions of China, in order to obtain the optimal parameters of the global solar radiation calculation model, this study proposes a suitable monthly global solar radiation model based on the single-station approach and the between-groups linkage of the A–P model, which utilizes monthly measured meteorological data from 80 meteorological stations spanning the period from 1996 to 2016 in the tropical zone of China, considering the similarity in changes of monthly sunshine percentage between stations. The applicability and accuracy of the correction parameters (a and b coefficients) were tested and evaluated, and then the modified parameters were extended to conventional meteorological stations through Thiessen polygons. Finally, the spatial distribution of solar radiation in the tropical region of China was simulated by kriging, IDW, and spline interpolation techniques. The results show the following: (1) The single-station model exhibited the highest accuracy in simulating the average annual global solar radiation, followed by the model based on the between-groups linkage. After optimizing the a and b coefficients, the simulation accuracy of the average annual global solar radiation increased by 5.3%, 8.1%, and 4.4% for the whole year, dry season, and wet season, respectively. (2) Through cross-validation, the most suitable spatial interpolation methods for the whole year, dry season, and wet season in the tropical zone of China were IDW, Kriging, and Spline, respectively. This research has positive implications for improving the accuracy of solar radiation prediction and guiding regional agricultural production.
Quasi-Synchronous Variations in the OLR of NOAA and Ionospheric Ne of CSES of Three Earthquakes in Xinjiang, January 2020
Authors: Yu Chen , Cui Jing , Zhang Wanchun , Ma Weiyu , Ren Jing , Su Bo , Huang Jianping
Published: December 2023

The successive tidal force (TF) at the epicenter of the Jiashi M6.6 earthquake in Xinjiang, China, was calculated for the period from 13 December 2019 to 10 February 2020. With periodic changes in tide-generating forces, the variations in the electron density (Ne) data recorded by the China Seismo-Electromagnetic Satellite (CSES) and outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) data provided by NOAA on a large scale at N25°–N55°, E65°–E135° were studied. The results show that (1) in the four cycles during which the TF changes from trough to peak, the earthquake occurred during one peak time when the OLR changed around the epicenter via calm–rise processions and in other similar TF phases, and neither an increase in the OLR nor earthquake occurred. (2) With a change in the TF, the spatiotemporal evolution of the OLR from seismogenic processes to its occurrence was as follows: microenhancement–enhancement–microattenuation–enhancement–calmness; this is consistent with the evolution of outward infrared radiation when rocks break under stress loading: microrupture–rupture–locking–accelerated rupture–rupture. (3) Ne increased significantly during the seismogenic period and was basically consistent with OLR enhancement. The results indicate that as the TF increases, the Earth’s stress accumulates at a critical point, and the OLR increases and transfers upward. The theoretical hypothesis underlying the conducted study is that the accumulated electrons on the surface cause negatively charged electrons in the atmosphere to move upward, resulting in an increase in ionospheric Ne near the epicenter, which reveals the homology of seismic stress variations in the spatial coupling process. The quasi-synchronous change process of these three factors suggests that the TF changed the process of the stress accumulation–imbalance in the interior structure of this earthquake and has the effect of triggering the earthquake, and the spatiotemporal variations in the OLR and ionospheric Ne could be indirect reflections of in situ stress.
Fugitive Emission Characteristics of Fume and Dust from Short-Process Electric Furnace Tap Hole and Optimization of Dust Hood
Authors: Wu Yanpeng , Luan Shanshan , Li Xiaoyu
Published: December 2023

Due to the advantages of a short cycle, low investment and low energy consumption per ton of steel, short-process electric furnace steelmaking is about to welcome a golden period of rapid development in China. During the operation of the electric furnace, a large amount of smoke and dust is generated. Most studies focus on organized emissions, and the impact of unorganized emissions in workshops on the environment cannot be ignored. This paper evaluates the thermal environment in the electric furnace steelmaking workshop based on the analytic hierarchy process and obtains the influence weight of the fugitive emission location. The mass concentration of dust at each measuring point increased by 1.17 mg/m3 on average, and the concentration of unorganized emission dust near the outlet was 23.572 mg/m3. The numerical simulation calculation model is established by the CFD method, a fixed initial jet velocity is set, the initial velocity of the ladle soot plume is changed, and the inclination angle, arrangement height and dust removal air volume of the dust hood are respectively adjusted in different tapping periods. The impact of simulation on the efficiency of dust collection for different dust removal hood configurations was investigated, considering variations in inclination angle, arrangement height and dust removal airflow. The optimal structural parameters for the dust removal hood were determined to be an inclination angle of 60° and an arrangement height of 2.4 m, and an optimal dust removal airflow was determined to be 110,000 m3/h. This study provides a theoretical foundation for engineering practice.
Multiplicative Consistent q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Preference Relations with Application to Critical Factor Analysis in Crowdsourcing Task Recommendation
Authors: Yin Xicheng , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a group decision-making (GDM) method based on q-rung orthopair fuzzy preference relations (q-ROFPRs). Firstly, the multiplicative consistent q-ROFPRs (MCq-ROFPRs) and the normalized q-rung orthopair fuzzy priority weight vectors (q-ROFPWVs) are introduced. Then, to obtain q-ROFPWVs, a goal programming model under q-ROFPRs is established to minimize their deviation from the MCq-ROFPRs and minimize the weight uncertainty. Further, a group goal programming model of ideal MCq-ROFPRs is constructed to obtain the expert weights using the compatibility measure between the ideal MCq-ROFPRs and the individual q-ROFPRs. Finally, a GDM method with unknown expert weights is solved by combining the group goal programming model and the simple q-rung orthopair fuzzy weighted geometric (Sq-ROFWG) operator. The effectiveness and practicality of the proposed GDM method are verified by solving the crucial factors in crowdsourcing task recommendation. The results show that the developed GDM method effectively considers the important measures of experts and identifies the crucial factors that are more reliable than two other methods.
The Algebra of Signatures for Extreme Two-Uniform Hypergraphs
Authors: Egorova Evgeniya , Mokryakov Aleksey , Tsurkov Vladimir
Published: December 2023

In the last decade, several characterizations have been constructed for constructions such as extreme hypergraphs. One of the most recently described features is the signature. A signature is a number that uniquely describes an extremal and allows one to efficiently store the extremal two-uniform hypergraph itself. However, for the signature, although various algorithms have been derived for transforming it into other object-characteristics such as the base, the adjacency matrix, and the vector of vertex degrees, no isolated signature union and intersection apparatus has been constructed. This allows us to build efficient algorithms based on signatures, the most compact representation of extremal two-uniform hypergraphs. The nature of the algebraic construction that can be built on a set of signatures using union and intersection operations has also been defined. It is proved that an algebra on a set of signatures with either the union or intersection operation forms a monoid; if the algebra is defined on a set of signatures with both union and intersection operations, it forms a distributive lattice.
Dynamical Analysis and Misalignment Projection Synchronization of a Novel RLCM Fractional-Order Memristor Circuit System
Authors: Liu Jindong , Tian Huaigu , Wang Zhen , Guan Yan , Cao Zelin
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a simple and novel fractional-order memristor circuit is established, which contains only resistance, inductance, capacitance and memristor. By using fractional calculus theory and the Adomian numerical algorithm, special bifurcations, chaotic degradation, C0 and Spectral Entropy (SE) complexity under one-dimensional and two-dimensional parameter variations with different orders, parameters and initial memristor values of the system were studied. Meanwhile, in order to better utilize the applications of fractional-order memristor systems in communication and security, a misalignment projection synchronization scheme for fractional-order systems is proposed, which overcomes the shortcomings of constructing Lyapunov functions for fractional-order systems to prove stability and designing controllers for the Laplace transform matrix.
Entropy and Multi-Fractal Analysis in Complex Fractal Systems Using Graph Theory
Authors: Mufti Zeeshan Saleem , Tedjani Ali H. , Anjum Rukhshanda , Alsuraiheed Turki
Published: December 2023

In 1997, Sierpinski graphs, S(n,k), were obtained by Klavzar and Milutinovic. The graph S(1,k) represents the complete graph Kk and S(n,3) is known as the graph of the Tower of Hanoi. Through generalizing the notion of a Sierpinski graph, a graph named a generalized Sierpinski graph, denoted by Sie(Λ,t), already exists in the literature. For every graph, numerous polynomials are being studied, such as chromatic polynomials, matching polynomials, independence polynomials, and the M-polynomial. For every polynomial there is an underlying geometrical object which extracts everything that is hidden in a polynomial of a common framework. Now, we describe the steps by which we complete our task. In the first step, we generate an M-polynomial for a generalized Sierpinski graph Sie(Λ,t). In the second step, we extract some degree-based indices of a generalized Sierpinski graph Sie(Λ,t) using the M-polynomial generated in step 1. In step 3, we generate the entropy of a generalized Sierpinski graph Sie(Λ,t) by using the Randić index.
Rational Design of a Cost-Effective Biomass Carbon Framework for High-Performance Lithium Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Bai Zhongchao , Fan Kai , Guo Meiqing , Wang Mingyue , Yang Ting , Wang Nana
Published: December 2023

Lithium–sulfur (Li-S) batteries are the most attractive candidates for next-generation large-scale energy storage because of their high theoretical energy density and the affordability of sulfur. However, most of the reported research primarily concentrates on low sulfur loading (below 2 mgs cm−2) cathodes using binders and traditional collectors, thus undermining the expected energy density. Herein, a N, O co-doped carbon nanotube (N, O-CNT) decorated wood framework (WF), denoted as WF-CNT, was designed as a free-standing sulfur host, achieving high sulfur loading of 10 mgs cm−2. This unique cathode featured low tortuosity microchannels and a conductive framework, reducing the diffusion paths for both ions and electrons and accommodating the volume changes associated with sulfur. Moreover, the internal CNT forests effectively captured soluble lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and catalyze their redox kinetic. Consequently, the S@WF-CNT-800 sample exhibited a high initial discharge capacity of 1438.2 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 0.5 A g−1. Furthermore, a reversible capacity of 404.5 mAh g−1 was obtained after 500 cycles with sulfur loading of 5 mgs cm−2 at 0.5 A g−1. This work may support the development of high sulfur loading cathodes utilizing cost-effective and sustainable biomass materials for Li-S batteries.
An Artificial-Intelligence-Driven Spanish Poetry Classification Framework
Authors: Deng Shutian , Wang Gang , Wang Hongjun , Chang Fuliang
Published: December 2023

Spain possesses a vast number of poems. Most have features that mean they present significantly different styles. A superficial reading of these poems may confuse readers due to their complexity. Therefore, it is of vital importance to classify the style of the poems in advance. Currently, poetry classification studies are mostly carried out manually, which creates extremely high requirements for the professional quality of classifiers and consumes a large amount of time. Furthermore, the objectivity of the classification cannot be guaranteed because of the influence of the classifier’s subjectivity. To solve these problems, a Spanish poetry classification framework was designed using artificial intelligence technology, which improves the accuracy, efficiency, and objectivity of classification. First, an artificial-intelligence-driven Spanish poetry classification framework is described in detail, and is illustrated by a framework diagram to clearly represent each step in the process. The framework includes many algorithms and models, such as the Term Frequency–Inverse Document Frequency (TF_IDF), Bagging, Support Vector Machines (SVMs), Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost), logistic regression (LR), Gradient Boosting Decision Trees (GBDT), LightGBM (LGB), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Random Forest (RF). The roles of each algorithm in the framework are clearly defined. Finally, experiments were performed for model selection, comparing the results of these algorithms.The Bagging model stood out for its high accuracy, and the experimental results showed that the proposed framework can help researchers carry out poetry research work more efficiently, accurately, and objectively.
A Fermentation State Marker Rule Design Task in Metabolic Engineering
Authors: Stalidzans Egils , Muiznieks Reinis , Dubencovs Konstantins , Sile Elina , Berzins Kristaps , Suleiko Arturs , Vanags Juris
Published: December 2023

There are several ways in which mathematical modeling is used in fermentation control, but mechanistic mathematical genome-scale models of metabolism within the cell have not been applied or implemented so far. As part of the metabolic engineering task setting, we propose that metabolite fluxes and/or biomass growth rate be used to search for a fermentation steady state marker rule. During fermentation, the bioreactor control system can automatically detect the desired steady state using a logical marker rule. The marker rule identification can be also integrated with the production growth coupling approach, as presented in this study. A design of strain with marker rule is demonstrated on genome scale metabolic model iML1515 of Escherichia coli MG1655 proposing two gene deletions enabling a measurable marker rule for succinate production using glucose as a substrate. The marker rule example at glucose consumption 10.0 is: IF (specific growth rate μ is above 0.060 h−1, AND CO2 production under 1.0, AND ethanol production above 5.5), THEN succinate production is within the range 8.2–10, where all metabolic fluxes units are mmol ∗ gDW−1 ∗ h−1. An objective function for application in metabolic engineering, including productivity features and rule detecting sensor set characterizing parameters, is proposed. Two-phase approach to implementing marker rules in the cultivation control system is presented to avoid the need for a modeler during production.