Experimental Trials Research Articles

A state evaluation and fault diagnosis strategy for substation relay protection system integrating multiple intelligent algorithms

AbstractEnsuring the operational reliability of substation relay protection systems through rapid defect diagnosis and state assessment is crucial for maintaining power system stability. This study introduces a new diagnostic framework that combines improved particle swarm optimization, K‐means clustering algorithms, support vector machine (SVM), and learning vector quantization neural networks to provide a comprehensive fault diagnosis and prediction model for relay protection systems. The model commences by identifying critical metrics for system state evaluation, employing an improved analytic hierarchy process to allocate weights to these indicators, and introducing variable weights theory to improve dependability of outcomes. The model enhances SVM with learning vector quantization for precise state prediction by utilizing operational data from substation relay protection systems. Improved particle swarm optimization optimizes key SVM parameters to improve accuracy. In order to effectively classify defect categories, the K‐means clustering algorithm is implemented. The model's efficacy, stability, and comprehensive applicational potential have been confirmed through experimental trials, which represent substantial progress in the field of substation fault management.

Susceptibility of Tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) to Nile Tilapia-Derived Streptococcus agalactiae and Francisella orientalis

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) are the two most produced freshwater fishes in Brazil. This study investigated the potential pathogenicity of Streptococcus agalactiae and Francisella orientalis, previously isolated from diseased Nile tilapia, to tambaqui. Experimental infection trials were conducted in juvenile tambaqui at a dose of approximately 107 CFU fish−1, assessing clinical signs, mortality, bacterial recovery, and histopathological changes. Results demonstrated that S. agalactiae exhibited high pathogenicity to tambaqui, causing rapid disease progression, high mortality (83.33%) within 48 h post-infection, and severe lesions in multiple organs, under the experimental conditions. In contrast, F. orientalis infection did not result in mortality or clinical signs, despite bacterial recovery and granulomatous inflammation observed in the tissues. This study highlights the need to consider the potential impact of these pathogens in tambaqui farming.

Impact of seed rate and time of sowing on rice fallow crops and their sustainable production system in machine-harvested rice fields

A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Agronomy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai to study the performance of rice fallow crops in machine-harvested rice fields. The primary objective of this study was to determine the optimal seed rate and the time of sowing rice fallow crops in machine-harvested rice fields. Rice fallow crop cultivation is the most significant low-cost production system in the delta region. However, the sustainability of the system is uncertain in the context of mechanical harvesting of rice using heavy machinery. The crops selected for the experimental trial were black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper.), sesame (Sesamum indicum), and proso millet (Panicum miliaceum). The field experiment was conducted using a strip plot design. Rice fallow crops were arranged in vertical plots, while various seed rates and sowing timings were arranged in horizontal plots. The results indicated that the sowing time and seed rate significantly influenced the growth and development of rice fallow crops in machine-harvested rice fields. On the day of rice harvest, a 20% increase in seed rate (36 kg ha−1) resulted in greater grain and straw yield among the black gram treatments. The increased seed rate compensated for the damage caused by mechanical harvesting on the day of the harvest when a combine harvester was utilized, increasing the yield and sustainability of the rice fallow crops.

In vitro and in silico studies of a Zn(II) complex as a potential therapeutic agent for breast cancer.

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most life-threatening diseases of women's health worldwide. This work was conducted to assess the anti-BC potency of a new Zn(II)-based complex. The Zn(II) complex coordinated to dimethoxy-substituted bipyridine was synthesized and its molecular structure was elucidated as [Zn(2Meobpy)3](clo4)2 (2Meobpy-Zn) by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, 2Meobpy represents 4,4'-dimethoxy-2,2'-bipyridine. The cytotoxicity results indicated that 2Meobpy-Zn, unlike cisplatin, acts potently and selectively on the human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) compared to normal murine embryo cells (NIH/3T3) by IC50 value of 4.6 ± 0.5µm and selectivity index (SI) of 2.0 over 48h. 2Meobpy-Zn and cisplatin showed anti-metastatic activity as evidenced by inhibition of the colony formation and cell migration. The flow cytometric assessment of MCF-7 cells supported that 2Meobpy-Zn and cisplatin exert their cytotoxic effect through the apoptotic pathway. Moreover, 2Meobpy-Zn could induce overproduction of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in MCF-7 cells. The apoptotic mechanism in 2Meobpy-Zn-treated MCF-7 cells is probably related to the regulation of apoptosis-relevant genes expression, including BAX and BCL2. Moreover, 2Meobpy-Zn is able to cleave pUC19 plasmid DNA through the hydrolytic reaction pathway. Finally, 2Meobpy-Zn's affinity towards antiapoptosis-related proteins, as a potential apoptosis inducer, as well as breast cancer-relevant proteins, as a potential anti-BC agent, was evaluated by in silico molecular docking studies. Altogether, the results of this work strongly evidenced that 2Meobpy-Zn can be the subject of experimental validation and clinical trials to introduce this complex as a promising BC therapeutic agent.

Enhancing Lignin-Carbohydrate Complexes Production and Properties With Machine Learning.

Lignin-carbohydrate complexes (LCCs) present a unique opportunity for harnessing the synergy between lignin and carbohydrates for high-value product development. However, producing LCCs in high yields remains a significant challenge. In this study, we address this challenge with a novel approach for the targeted production of LCCs. We optimized the AquaSolv Omni (AqSO) biorefinery for the synthesis of LCCs with high carbohydrate content (up to 60/100 Ar) and high yields (up to 15 wt %) by employing machine learning (ML). Our method significantly improves the yield of LCCs compared to conventional procedures, such as ball milling and enzymatic hydrolysis. The ML approach was pivotal in tuning the biorefinery to achieve the best performance with a limited number of experimental trials. Specifically, we utilized Bayesian Optimization to iteratively gather data and examine the effects of key processing conditions-temperature, process severity, and liquid-to-solid ratio-on yield and carbohydrate content. Through Pareto front analysis, we identified optimal trade-offs between LCC yield and carbohydrate content, discovering extensive regions of processing conditions that produce LCCs with yields of 8-15 wt % and carbohydrate contents ranging from 10-40/100 Ar. To assess the potential of these LCCs for high-value applications, we measured their glass transition temperature (Tg), surface tension, and antioxidant activity. Notably, we found that LCCs with high carbohydrate content generally exhibit low Tg and surface tension. Our biorefinery concept, augmented by ML-guided optimization, represents a significant step toward scalable production of LCCs with tailored properties.

Behavioral risk assessment of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among workers of petrochemical industries: protocol of a mixed method study

BackgroundMusculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are one of the most common occupational diseases and the main cause of disability worldwide. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are one of the common health risks and the most important cause of absenteeism due to disability in various industries, including the petrochemical industry, in developed and developing countries. These disorders have important social economic, and significant financial consequences due to direct and hidden costs. Health behaviors play a role in both creating and preventing musculoskeletal disorders in employees. Therefore, by identifying the influencing factors on these behaviors, it is possible to strengthen and improve the preventive behaviors of musculoskeletal disorders through educational intervention programs. This study aims to assess the behavioral risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, and design and implement an educational intervention to teach effective behaviors in the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in petrochemical industry workers.MethodsThis study is a mixed-method study implemented in four stages involving the qualitative study, the design and evaluation of an instrument, the design of an experimental randomized clinical trial, and the psychometric evaluation of the instrument and the evaluation of the program. The research community consists of employees working in the petrochemical industry. The volume of samples in the qualitative study with the purposeful sampling method, in the instrument design stage based on the available sampling method, and also in the experimental study, the samples are employees suffering from work-related musculoskeletal disorders, who were selected based on a simple random method from among the employees of the petrochemical industry. Then they will be divided into intervention and control groups. The instruments of this research include a demographic questionnaire, a researcher-made questionnaire for measuring behavior, and two auxiliary instruments including the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Quebec Disability Scale. Evaluation is done in 4 stages: pre-test, immediately, 3, and 6 months after the intervention of both groups. The obtained data will be analyzed using SPSS software.DiscussionMusculoskeletal disorders related (WMSDs) to work can harm employees’ health in various industries, including the petrochemical industry. This study attempts to evaluate the behavioral risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among petrochemical industry workers and design and implement an appropriate educational intervention program.Trial registrationIranian Registry of Clinical Trial (IRCT20240321061346N1). Registered on 2024–04-10.Ethics Status: Ethics code: IR.MODARES.REC.1402.251.

Effectiveness of ozone nanobubble treatments on high biomass cyanobacterial blooms: A mesocosm experiment and field trial

Cyanobacterial harmful algae blooms (cyanoHABs) are a global threat to water resources, and lake managers need effective strategies to suppress or control them. Algaecides may have negative environmental impacts, and their use is becoming restricted. Nanobubble ozone technology (NBOT) is an emerging water treatment option with potentially fewer negative impacts. We assessed the effectiveness of NBOT in treating Planktothrix cyanoHAB from Grand Lake St Marys (GLSM, Ohio USA) in a mesocosm (2,000L) experiment and two 4-week trials in a GLSM embayment (Sunset Beach, SBE; ∼4.7∗107 L). In mesocosms, the medium (1.21 ± 0.08 ozone to dissolved organic carbon ratio, O3:DOC) and high (2.04 ± 0.07 O3:DOC) doses decreased both chlorophyll a (chl-a) and phycocyanin by 98–99% and microcystins by 62% and 92%, respectively. The low dose (0.68 ± 0.05 O3:DOC) decreased chl-a and phycocyanin by over 70%. No effect was observed for chl-a nor microcystins in both oxygen-only nanobubble mesocosm treatments and the SBE NBOT trial. The average O3:DOC at SBE was less than the low NBOT mesocosm experiment dose, and the percentage of water treated was lower. DOC chemistry, as indicated by SUVA254, was more oxidized at the NBOT outlet than the inlet in the SBE trial, suggesting interaction with ozone. However, no differences were observed 3m from the outlet, indicating minimal treatment reach. The mesocosm experiment highlighted NBOT's ability to control cyanoHABs, but the limited effectiveness of NBOT at SBE was likely due to high cyanobacteria biomass and DOC at the onset of treatment, low O3:DOC, and low percentage of lake water instantaneously treated.

Pharmacotherapeutic potential of pratensein to avert metribuzin instigated hepatotoxicity via regulating TGF-β1, PI3K/Akt, Nrf-2/Keap-1 and NF-κB pathway

Metribuzin (MBN) is a selective herbicide that adversely damages the vital organs of the body including the liver. Pratensein (PTN) is a novel flavonoid that exhibits marvelous medicinal properties. This experimental trial commenced to elucidate the pharmacotherapeutic strength of PTN to counteract MBN provoked liver toxicity in rats. Thirty-six male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) were categorized into four groups i.e., the control, MBN (133.33 mg/kg), MBN (133.33 mg/kg) + PTN (20 mg/kg) and PTN (20 mg/kg) alone treated group. Our findings revealed that MBN exposure promoted the expressions of Keap-1 as well as concentrations of ROS and MDA while reducing the gene expressions of Nrf-2 as well as activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GSR), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) contents. The levels of albumin and total proteins were reduced whereas the levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were enhanced following the MBN administration. Moreover, the gene expression of transforming growth Factor–β1 (TGF-β1), matrix metallopeptidase-2 (MMP-2), matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9), collagen, type I, alpha 1 and type-3 alpha were escalated in response to MBN intoxication. Furthermore, MBN administration cause a sudden upregulation in the levels of NF-κB, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 & COX-2. Besides, MBN exposure enhanced the gene expression of Bax and Caspase-3 while reducing the gene expression of PI3K, Akt and Bcl-2. Additionally, MBN exposure dysregulated the normal histology of liver. However, PTN treatment notably protected the hepatic tissues via regulating abovementioned dysregulations due to its marvelous ROS scavenging potential.

The reliability of functional and systemic markers of muscle damage in response to a flywheel squat protocol.

To characterize the magnitude, timescale, and reliability of changes in functional and systemic outcome markers following moderate (MIR) and high (HIR) isoinertial resistance flywheel squat protocols (FSP). Twenty-four resistance-trained males completed two exercise trials (ET1 & ET2) separated by 32days. Functional and systemic markers were assessed at pre-exercise (PRE), immediately post-exercise (IP), and 24 (24H), 48 (48H), and 72 (72H) hours post-exercise. Three-way group x trial x time repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to compare all dependent variables between groups (MIR &HIR) and experimental trials across time. Test-retest reliability between trials was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). At IP, both groups exhibited significantly decreased active range of motion, perceived recovery status, squat maximal voluntary isometric contraction force, and vertical jump performance, along with significantly increased muscle thickness and echo intensity (ultrasound), muscle soreness, and creatine kinase when compared to PRE. Most outcomes remained perturbed at 24H and 48H, especially in the HIR group. By 72H, only a subset of variables remained significantly changed from PRE. No significant attenuation of outcomes between trials were observed and test-retest reliability between trials was excellent for the FSP and moderate to excellent for most outcomes in both groups. Our findings indicate that the FSP is a robust and repeatable exercise stimulus capable of eliciting significant exercise-induced muscle damage and reliable subsequent perturbations to functional and systemic markers of muscle damage. Our findings also support the use of crossover designs in future EIMD research designs with resistance-trained men.

Bone Density Correlates With Depth of Subsidence After Expandable Interbody Cage Placement: A Biomechanical Analysis.

Biomechanical analysis. To evaluate the depth of subsidence resulting from an expandable interbody cage at varying bone foam densities. Expandable interbody cages have been shown to be associated with increased rates of subsidence. It is critical to evaluate all variables which may influence a patient's risk of subsidence following the placement of an expandable interbody cage. In the first stage of the study, subsidence depth was measured with 1Nm of input expansion torque. In the second stage, the depth of subsidence was measured following 150 N output force exerted by an expandable interbody cage. Within each stage, different bone foam densities were analyzed, including 5, 10, 15, and 20 pounds per cubic foot (PCF). Five experimental trials were performed for each PCF material, and the mean subsidence depths were calculated. Trials which failed to reach 150 N output force were considered outliers and were excluded from the analysis. There was an overall decrease in subsidence depth with increasing bone foam density. The mean subsidence depths at 150 N output force were 2.0±0.3mm for 5 PCF, 1.8±0.2mm for 10 PCF, 1.1±0.2mm for 15 PCF, and 1.1±0.2mm for 20 PCF bone foam. The mean subsidence depths at 1Nm of input torque were 2.3±0.5mm for 5 PCF, 2.3±0.5mm for 10 PCF, 1.2±0.2mm for 15 PCF, and 1.1±0.1mm for 20 PCF bone foam. Depth of subsidence was negatively correlated with bone foam density at both constant input torque and constant endplate force. Because tactile feedback of cage expansion into the subsiding bone cannot be reliably distinguished from true expansion of disc space height, surgeons should take bone quality into account when deploying expandable cages.

CFD Simulation and Surface Modification of SG Cast Iron for Hot Rolling Applications

The wear resistance and heat dissipation of hot rolling mill rollers are critical factors affecting their durability and operational efficiency, particularly under extreme thermal and mechanical conditions. This study investigates the surface modification of SG iron rollers through tungsten laser cladding, aiming to improve these properties. A comprehensive approach, combining Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental trials, was employed to evaluate the performance of tungsten-cladded rollers relative to untreated ones. The results revealed a 10-18% improvement in heat dissipation for tungsten-cladded rollers, attributed to enhanced heat transfer rates and better cooling efficiency. The analysis of fluid flow patterns, water volume fraction, and cooling angles demonstrated that tungsten cladding allowed for more effective heat management and uniform cooling across the roller surface. In the experimental trials, the mechanical properties of SG iron showed significant enhancement after laser cladding. The microhardness of the cladded surface increased by 59%, from 220 HV to 350 HV, offering improved resistance to surface deformation and wear. Furthermore, the wear resistance improved by 35% reduction in wear loss, as the tungsten and MoS₂/WC composite coatings provided a strong protective barrier against abrasion. Additionally, the Coefficient of Friction (COF) was reduced by 43%, from 0.7 to 0.4, due to the lubricating properties of MoS₂, minimizing frictional heat and energy loss during operation. These findings reveal the effectiveness of tungsten laser cladding as a surface modification technique for SG iron rollers, with practical implications for improving the durability and operational efficiency of hot rolling mill rollers.

Habitat management interventions for a specialist mid- successional grassland butterfly, the Lulworth Skipper

Evidence-based management is needed to reverse declines in insect abundance. The Lulworth Skipper Thymelicus acteon is a range-restricted and declining species in the UK and northern Europe associated with mid-successional grassland, which presents management challenges because interventions are necessary to prevent long-term habitat deterioration but can result in short-term reductions in quality. In addition, site management should be compatible for the focal species and for wider plant and insect diversity. We conducted factorial experimental management trials to understand effects of cutting and rotovation on the height and structure of vegetation containing the larval host plant Tor-grass Brachypodium rupestre. We monitored vegetation height, B. rupestre cover and plant diversity, and T. acteon larval presence over four years. Rotovation and cutting differed in their effects on habitat structure and larval occupancy relative to controls. Vegetation height and host plant cover, the most important components of habitat quality for T. acteon, were faster to recover to suitable levels on cut plots. However, larval occupancy increased more quickly on rotovated plots, where plant species diversity was also higher. Results suggest that due to initial negative impacts of interventions on T. acteon occupancy, low frequency or low-intensity management, such as managing sections of a site every three years, is advisable. Our results show that rotovation or cutting the sward can be suitable for mid-successional grassland species such as Lulworth Skipper on sites where grazing might be problematic. Rotational grazing or rotovation can maintain suitable conditions for habitat specialist insects requiring a range of different grassland conditions, serving wider conservation goals.

Simulation and Experimental Study on Enhancing Dimensional Accuracy of Polycarbonate Light Guides.

This research investigates the adaptation of conventional injection-molding techniques for producing thick-walled polycarbonate optical components, specifically targeting their application in automotive light guides. With the automotive industry's growing demand for reliable yet cost-efficient optical products, the study examines how traditional injection-molding processes can be refined to enhance dimensional accuracy and reduce defects. Simulations and experimental trials were conducted to evaluate the impact of critical process parameters, such as melt temperature, mold temperature, injection pressure, and gate design, on the overall quality of the final components. The results show that by carefully optimizing these parameters, it is possible to significantly reduce common defects like warpage, surface imperfections, and dimensional instability. This research highlights the potential of existing molding techniques to meet high industry standards while maintaining cost-effectiveness, offering valuable guidance for manufacturers aiming to produce high-quality optical components for demanding applications like automotive lighting.

Extracellular Vesicles in Viral Liver Diseases.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are bilayer vesicles released by cells in the microenvironment of the liver including parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells. They are the third important mechanism in the communications between cells, besides the secretion of cytokines and chemokines and the direct cell-to-cell contact. The aim of this review is to discuss the important role of EVs in viral liver disease, as there is increasing evidence that the transportation of viral proteins, all types of RNA, and viral particles including complete virions is implicated in the pathogenesis of both viral cirrhosis and viral-related hepatocellular carcinoma. The biogenesis of EVs is discussed and their role in the pathogenesis of viral liver diseases is presented. Their use as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers is also analyzed. Most importantly, the significance of possible novel treatment strategies for liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma is presented, although available data are based on experimental evidence and clinical trials have not been reported.

Sustainable desalination through hybrid photovoltaic/thermal membrane distillation: Development of an off-grid prototype

Global freshwater scarcity is a critical challenge, particularly severe in remote Australian communities where seawater intrusion and aquifer salinisation exacerbate the need for alternative water resources. Conventional desalination technologies are energy-intensive and unsuitable for rural areas. This study introduces a novel, off-grid, sustainable desalination solution utilising solar-integrated membrane distillation (MD) technology. An innovative, stand-alone prototype combining a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system with direct contact MD (DCMD) has been designed and developed. This fully integrated PV/T collector efficiently supplies the thermal and electrical energy required for the MD process. The photovoltaic panel generates the necessary electrical energy, while the heat from the PV panel warms the MD system’s feed solution, enhancing overall efficiency through the solar cell cooling effect. In addition, an innovative fan-cooled radiator equipped with two DC fans with a low power consumption rating was designed and customized to be applied as MD system cooling medium within the outdoor setting. The concept development and feasibility of the system are explored in detail through a comprehensive experimental investigation employing an innovative and practical approach to design and examine the integrated hybrid solar MD unit. This unique system was designed, constructed, and tested under dynamic outdoor conditions, during the summer season in Melbourne, to assess the integration strategy and evaluate its long-term operational performance. The performance of the integrated PV/T-MD system was evaluated using two commercial hydrophobic membranes with different pore sizes under various outdoor conditions and PV/T fluid flow rates. Key performance metrics analysed include solar irradiance intensity, temperature profiles of the PV/T panel and MD module, power, current and voltage profiles of the unit components, permeate flux, specific water productivity (SWP) and the thermal (ηthermPV/T) and electrical (ηelecPV/T) efficiencies, along with the gained output ratio (GOR). Comprehensive experimental assessments in indoor and outdoor settings were undertaken to confirm the technical viability of the system. The study demonstrates the feasibility of such systems through real-world trials and addresses key challenges in energy efficiency and internal heat recovery. The experimental trials demonstrated permeate flux values ranging between 8–16 kg/m2h outdoors, compared to 22–30 kg/m2h indoors, reflecting the impact of fluctuating environmental conditions. The system’s power consumption was measured 130–140 W, about one-third of the PV/T power rating. The maximum power generation reached 280 W in battery charging mode. achieving a maximum ηthermPV/T of 20 % and an ηelecPV/T of 18 %. Additionally, the cooling effect of the PV/T panel resulted in a 1.5–2 °C temperature reduction, improving electrical power output by 0.8–1.2 %. The findings highlight the significant potential of the system in providing reliable and efficient freshwater production in remote, off-grid communities, offering a scalable solution to address global water scarcity challenges.

Uncemented Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Analysis of Biomechanical, Clinical, and Technological Aspects

Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is widely used for treating advanced osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions, providing pain relief and improved joint function. Traditionally, cemented TKA is preferred for its reliable initial fixation, especially in elderly patients with compromised bone quality. However, with increasing life expectancy and physical demands, uncemented TKA has emerged as a promising alternative, offering benefits in bone preservation and greater implant durability. This study reviews the biomechanical, clinical, and technological aspects of uncemented TKA compared to cemented TKA. Objective: To critically evaluate the effectiveness of uncemented TKA, identifying factors that influence long-term outcomes and comparing its benefits and limitations to cemented TKA. Methods: A review was conducted based on articles published over the last 20 years, including clinical studies, systematic reviews, experimental trials, and observational studies. The search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, using specific terms and Boolean operators. Studies were selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were extracted and analyzed to compare the outcomes between TKA techniques. Results: Uncemented TKA showed advantages in preserving bone density and reducing reoperation rates in young and active patients due to osteointegration facilitated by materials such as trabecular titanium and hydroxyapatite coatings. However, challenges persist, particularly in patients with osteoporosis, where fixation may be less effective. On the other hand, cemented TKA offers superior initial stability in older patients. Conclusion: Uncemented TKA provides significant benefits, especially for younger patients, but the choice between cemented and uncemented TKA should be personalized, considering factors such as age, bone quality, and physical activity level. Ongoing advances in materials and technologies may further improve uncemented TKA outcomes, but additional studies are needed to strengthen the evidence.

Effect of Feeding Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Powder on Nutrient Digestibility of Konkan Kanyal Kids

The present study aimed to determine the Effect of feeding Ginger (Zingiber officinale) powder on nutrient digestibility of Konkan Kanyal kids. antibiotics were commonly used in animal diets to promote growth. However, due to the search for alternative additives and restrictions in many countries on using antibiotics to increase feed value, feed expenses now make up a significant part of the total cost of goat production. An experimental trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding Ginger (Zingiber officinale) powder on body weight of Konkan Kanyal kids. Twenty Konkan Kanyal kids were selected and classified in five treatments by using Randomized Block Design (RBD). Each treatment was subdivided into four replications. All the animals were fed with complete feed having mulato grass, jowar kadabi and concentrate mixture. In treatment T1 no ginger powder was supplemented while in treatment T2 3.0 g ginger powder, in treatment T3 6.0 g ginger powder, in treatment T4 9.0 g ginger powder and in treatment T5 12.0 g ginger powder was supplemented. The duration of experimental trial was 90 days. The study showed that ginger inclusion in the diet improved digestibility thus12g ginger can be included in diet of konkankanyal kids for better performance. The crude protein (CP) digestibility indicated that the animals effectively utilized dietary protein. This could be attributed to certain phytochemicals in ginger, such as tannins and saponins, which help prevent protein degradation in the rumen, allowing for better digestion in the abomasum and small intestine.

Effects of different exposures to normobaric hypoxia on cognitive performance in healthy young adults.: Normobaric hypoxia and cognitive performance

Normobaric hypoxia has become an innovative non-pharmacological therapy to treat cognitive dysfunction. Nevertheless, the acute effects of exposure to hypoxia on cognitive performance remain unclear. We aimed to determine the effects of different normobaric hypoxic exposures on cognitive function in healthy young adults. Nineteen participants (13 men and 6 women; 23.7 ± 3.9 years; 172.0 ± 8.4 cm; 69.1 ± 12.2 kg) completed a cross-over randomized control trial with the following doses of fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2): a) 21 %, b) 15 %, c) 13 % or d) 11 %. During experimental trials, the physiological response (blood oxygen saturation and heart rate) and the following cognitive abilities were evaluated: memory, sustained attention, anticipation, and reaction time. Sustained attention improved under hypoxia at 15 % FiO2 (mean difference (MD) 0.024, 95 % confidence intervals (CI) 0.005 to 0.044 s; p = 0.018) compared to 11 % and 21 % FiO2. During 11 % and 15 % FiO2, participants showed improved anticipation ability compared to normoxia (MD -0.023, 95 % CI -0.042 to -0.003 s, p = 0.020, and MD -0.009, 95 % CI -0.016 to -0.001 s, p = 0.022, respectively). However, reaction time was impaired under 11 % compared to 21 % FiO2 (MD 0.033, 95 % CI 0.008 to 0.059 s, p = 0.013). Finally, we did not find significant effects of hypoxia on memory (p > 0.05). Severe normobaric hypoxic exposure (11 % FiO2) produces detrimental effects on reaction time, although anticipation seems to be improved, compared to normoxia. In addition, cognitive processes of attention and anticipation appear to improve with moderate hypoxic exposure (15 % FiO2).

Acute exercise impacts heart rate variability but not cognitive flexibility during subsequent simulated firefighter occupational tasks.

Acute exercise can transiently enhance cognitive flexibility. The cognitive demand of firefighters makes it relevant to understand if on-shift exercise could produce similar improvements in cognitive performance during subsequent occupational tasks. Metrics of heart rate variability (HRV), such as time- and frequency-domain outcomes, may shed light upon the influence exercise has on cognition, as they discern information related to cardiac autonomic (sympathetic/parasympathetic) function. We aimed to determine if acute resistance and aerobic exercise impact cognitive flexibility during occupational tasks and its relation to HRV. 32 participants completed a baseline Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST) and three experimental trials: resistance exercise (RE), aerobic exercise (AE), or a rested control (CON). An occupational task assessment (OTA) including four rounds of 10 deadlifts and a 0.15-mile sandbag carry in an environmental chamber (35°C/50% humidity) was completed after each trial. The second round was followed by the WCST. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to analyze differences by condition. For the WCST, total, perseverative, and non-perseverative errors did not differ (ps > 0.39). Time-domain HRV metrics were not different (ps > 0.05). All frequency-domain metrics, other than low-frequency power, were not different (ps > 0.24). Low-frequency power was lower based on condition (p = 0.03). Post hoc analysis showed low-frequency power was lower following AE compared to RE and CON. Results suggest an acute bout of on-shift aerobic or resistance exercise may not impact cognitive flexibility during subsequent simulated occupational tasks, despite depressed metrics of heart rate variability following aerobic exercise.

Improving the Quality of Reshaped EoL Components by Means of Accurate Metamodels and Evolutionary Algorithms

The reshaping of End-of-Life (EoL) components by means of the sheet metal forming process has been considered largely attractive, even from the social and economic point of view. At the same time, EoL parts can often be characterized by non-uniform thicknesses or alternation of work-hardened/undeformed zones as the result of the manufacturing process. Such heterogeneity can hinder a proper reshaping of the EoL part, and residual marks on the reformed blanks can still be present at the end of the reshaping step. In a previous analysis, the authors evaluated the effectiveness of reshaping a blank with a deep-drawn feature by means of the Sheet Hydroforming (SHF) process: it was demonstrated that residual marks were still present if the deep-drawn feature was located in a region not enough strained during the reshaping step. Starting from this condition and adopting a numerical approach, additional investigations were carried out, changing the profile of the load applied by the blank holder and the maximum oil pressure. Numerical results were collected in terms of overall strain severity and residual height of the residual marks from the deep-drawn feature at the end of the reshaping step. Data were then fitted by accurate Response Surfaces trained by means of interpolant Radial Basis Functions and anisotropic Kriging algorithms, subsequently used to carry out a virtual optimization managed by multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOGA-II and NSGA-II). Optimization results, subsequently validated via experimental trials, provided the optimal working conditions to achieve a remarkable reduction of the marks from the deep-drawn feature without the occurrence of rupture.