bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Buried Straw Strips with Different Internal Structures on Water and Salt Distribution and Leaching Efficiency in Coastal Saline Soil
Authors: Masharifov Umidbek , Wang Zhenchang , Li Qingxin , Wang Yaosheng , Tian Minghao , Qiang Xiaoman , Liu Jinjing , Wang Yuexiong , Fan Yanwei , Chen Kexin , Chen Sheng , Hong Cheng
Published: June 2024

Straw strip burial in saline soil is an effective method for tideland reclamation in China, but optimal forms of straw strips for regulating soil water and salinity remain unclear. An indoor soil column test investigated the water and salt distribution in soil treated with four different straw forms under freshwater irrigation. The treatments included no straw layer (CK), straw stalks arranged longitudinally (T5), horizontally (T25), longitudinally combined horizontally in layers (T25+2.5), and randomly (T2.5). The results showed that compared to CK, T25, T5, and T25+2.5 significantly reduced the infiltration rate of irrigation water, leading to prolonged infiltration times. Wetting front curves under T5, T25+2.5, and T25 exhibited similar inverted “V” shapes, while CK and T2.5 showed fluctuating parallel lines. Water retention in the soil was higher under straw strip treatments (T5, T25, T25+2.5) and straw layer treatment (T2.5) compared to CK after 24 h of the first irrigation. T5 demonstrated the most effective salt removal, surpassing other treatments, with a desalination rate of 97.71%. Additionally, T5 had the highest salt leaching efficiency (SLE) in the 0–20 cm soil layer, recommending it as the optimal form for managing saline soils in crop production due to its simplicity and higher SLE. We found that buried straw strips reduced soil water infiltration rate and wetting front propulsion speed, increased soil water content and enhanced salt leaching efficiency in the saline soil. Our findings provide a basis for developing strategies that improve soil quality and irrigation efficiency, mitigate the effects of salinity on crop production, and ensure food security for a rapidly growing global population.
The Impact of Digital Finance on Enhancing the Spatial Effects of Heterogeneous Environmental Regulations in Supporting Agricultural Green Total Factor Productivity
Authors: Li Ruining , Chen Qinghua , Li Meng
Published: June 2024

Improving agricultural green total factor productivity (AGTFP) is the key to achieving sustainable agricultural development and empowering agricultural modernization. Based on the panel data of 30 provincial levels in China from 2011 to 2021, AGTFP is measured using the non-expected MinDS super-efficiency—MetaFrontier Malmquist model, and the impact of environmental regulation (ER) and digital finance on AGTFP is analyzed using the spatial Durbin model (SDM). The results show the following: (1) ER can increase local AGTFP and has a positive spatial spillover effect. Command-based ER has the highest impact on AGTFP, followed by market-incentive and public-voluntary ER. (2) Digital finance has a direct promotional effect on local AGTFP, while it has an inhibitory effect on AGTFP in neighboring regions due to the siphon effect. (3) Digital finance is an important regulatory variable affecting AGTFP concerning command-based, market-incentive and public-voluntary ER. Digital finance plays a significantly moderating role in the effectiveness of the three ERs on AGTFP, with the market-incentive ER being the highest in eastern China. Nonetheless, digital finance has a significantly moderating effect on the effectiveness of command-based and public-voluntary ER on AGTFP, with command-based ER being higher in central China. Meanwhile, digital finance only plays a significantly moderating role in the effectiveness of command-based environment regulation on AGTFP in western China. This study provides valuable reference for policymakers concerning agriculture green production in varied regions.
Optimizing Contact Force on an Apple Picking Robot End-Effector
Authors: Zhang Hongwei , Ji Wei , Xu Bo , Yu Xiaowei
Published: June 2024

The quality of apple picking affects the sales of apples, and the grasping force of the end effector of an apple picking robot is very important for apple picking. It is easy to cause apple damage due to excessive contact force, or when the contact force is too small to grasp the apple. However, the current research lacks an analysis of the minimum stable grasping force of apples. Therefore, in order to realize the stable grasping of apples by the end-effector of a picking robot and reduce fruit damage, this study first analyzes the grasping stability of the end-effector based on the force closure theory, and comprehensively considers the force closure constraints, nonlinear friction cone constraints and the introduction of torque constraints. Next, the constraint conditions are processed using an obstacle function, and a penalty factor is introduced to construct an optimization model of the contact force distribution of the end-effector. Then, the improved Newton method is used to grasp and solve the contact force distribution model. Under the premise of selecting the penalty factor, the optimal contact force of grasping an apple is determined using a method of numerical example simulation analysis, and the validity of the solution is verified. In order to verify the reliability of the contact force distribution optimization model, the practical significance of the method for apple grasping is verified in an actual grasping experiment. The actual experiment shows that the method can provide the minimum stable grasping force to the end-effector to achieve stable grasping.
A Comparative Study of the Influence of Communication on the Adoption of Digital Agriculture in the United States and Brazil
Authors: Colussi Joana , Sonka Steve , Schnitkey Gary D. , Morgan Eric L. , Padula Antônio D.
Published: June 2024

Digital agriculture has been developing rapidly over the past decade. However, studies have shown that the need for more ability to use these tools and the shortage of knowledge contribute to current farmer unease about digital technology. In response, this study investigated the influence of communication channels—mass media, social media, and interpersonal meetings—on farmers’ adoption, decision-making, and benefits obtained using technologies. The research uses data from 461 farmers in Brazil and 340 farmers in the United States, leaders in soybean production worldwide. The results show differences and similarities between these countries. LinkedIn has the highest positive association in Brazil between the communication channels and the digital agriculture technologies analyzed. In the United States, YouTube has the highest positive correlation. The overall influence of social media among Brazilian farmers is higher than among American farmers. The perceived benefits of using digital tools are more strongly associated with mass media communication in the United States than in Brazil. Regarding farm management decision-making, the study showed a higher relevance of interpersonal meetings in Brazil than in the United States. Findings can aid farmers, managers, academics and government decision makers to use communication channels more effectively in evaluating and adopting digital technologies.
The Differentiation of the Infestation of Wheat Grain with Fusarium poae from Three Other Fusarium Species by GC–MS and Electronic Nose Measurements
Authors: Borowik Piotr , Stocki Marcin , Tkaczyk Miłosz , Pluta Przemysław , Oszako Tomasz , Tarakowski Rafał , Okorski Adam
Published: June 2024

The massive import of uncontrolled technical grain from the East into the European Community poses a risk to public health when it ends up in the mills to be used as flour for food purposes instead of being burnt (biofuel). In fungal infections of wheat, the most dangerous species belong to the genus Fusarium. F. poae is a pathogen that is most commonly isolated from cereals worldwide and causes various types of diseases in animals and humans due to the numerous toxins it produces. The manuscript reports an attempt to distinguish between four species of Fusarium, F. avanceum, F. langsethiae, F. poae, and F. sporotrichioides, in wheat grains by measuring the volatiles emitted. The patterns obtained from the signals captured by the electronic nose PEN3 were used to build the Random Forests classification model. The recall and precision of the classification performance for F. poae reached 91 and 87%, respectively. The overall classification accuracy reached 70%. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was used to analyze the chemical composition of the emitted volatiles. The patterns found in the GC–MS results allowed an explanation of the main patterns observed when analyzing the electronic nose data. The mycotoxins produced by the Fusarium species analyzed were detected. The results of the reported experiment confirm the potential of the electronic nose as a technology that can be useful for screening the condition of the grain and distinguishing between different pathogenic infestations.
A Comparative Water Footprint Analysis of Conventional versus Organic Citrus Production: A Case Study in Spain
Authors: Imbernón-Mulero Alberto , Martínez-Alvarez Victoriano , Ben Abdallah Saker , Gallego-Elvira Belén , Maestre-Valero José F.
Published: June 2024

Spain is the leading citrus producer in the European Union, with the Segura River Basin in southeastern Spain playing a crucial role in this industry. However, the impact of local agricultural production on water appropriation has been overlooked. This study assesses the water footprint (WF) of both conventional and organic citrus production using the Water Footprint Network approach, addressing beneficial practices aiming to reduce the water appropriation impact. Focusing on four citrus fields, the evaluation covers green, blue, and grey components of the WF, and secondary impacts from electricity and fossil fuel consumption, which are usually omitted from the WF assessments. The results indicate that the total WF for organic orange and lemon production is over 19% lower than for the conventional system. Notable differences are observed in the blue component, attributed to the use of vegetative mulches, and in the grey component due to the reduced impact of fertilizers in organic practices. The individual and total WF values are lower than those reported in other citrus studies, and are linked to efficient resource management in semi-arid regions that helps overcome water scarcity. Nevertheless, the sustainability analysis reveals major challenges for the citrus sector in the basin, highlighting the strain on resources given the limited water availability. The available water remaining (AWARE) indicator demonstrates extremely high potential water deprivation in the area. Overall, the study underscores the necessity of integrating WF analyses in agricultural planning to manage resource scarcity effectively. Future research should focus on developing precise methodologies and incorporating unconventional farming practices to enhance sustainability. This research provides valuable insights for stakeholders aiming to optimize water use in agriculture under scarce resource conditions.
Dynamic Cutting Properties of Miscanthus (giganteus) Stems Using an Impact Tester
Authors: Toleu Zhankozy , Liu Jude
Published: June 2024

Miscanthus (giganteus) is a relatively new energy crop. Its mechanical properties are important for the design and modification of harvesting and processing machines or equipment. The cutting strength is critical to improve the field performance of mowing and other cutting mechanisms. The effects of the cutting blade type, sample supporting method, and sample locations (upper or lower) where it was taken from a single plant stem on the cutting force and energy were studied. A serrated cutting blade and a flat blade were selected to cut Miscanthus samples at the node and internode using a high-speed impact tester. The cutting force, sample diameter, and cutting speed were recorded. The specific cutting force and energy were then calculated based on the cross-sectional area of the stem sample. The average diameter of the Miscanthus samples used for this study was 9.5 mm. The blade cutting speeds for all treatments were ranged from 8.2 ms−1 to 11.3 ms−1. Overall, the maximum specific cutting force and energy of the flat blade were found at the upper portion of a plant stem, which was 441 N cm−2 and 8.3 J cm−2 at the node when one side of the stem sample was fixed, and 469 N cm−2 and 12.1 J cm−2 at the internode if both sides of the sample were fixed. The cutting strengths at the node and internode were significantly different no matter at the upper portion or lower portion of the plant. When using the serrated blade, the maximum specific cutting force was also found at the upper node section with a value of 511 N cm−2 and 437 N cm−2 for one-side fixed and two-side fixed, respectively. Meanwhile, the corresponding maximum specific cutting energies for these two cases were 10.5 J cm−2 and 10.3 J cm−2, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that the blade types and stem sample locations significantly affected the specific cutting force and energy with a 95% confidence level. The sample support methods did not make significant differences when comparing the specific cutting force and energy; but the actual cutting force and energy were significantly different.
Evaluation of Lucerne Cultivars of Two Winter Activity Classes in Contrasting Pedo-Climatic Mediterranean Environments
Authors: Baxevanos Dimitrios
Published: June 2024

Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) forage production may be shifting towards the autumn–spring season, or in cooler environments, due to warmer and drier summers in Mediterranean Europe. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of lucerne cultivars with varying winter activity ratings (WAR) and hardiness in divergent environments of Greece: a cool highland versus a warm lowland. Highlywinter-active (HWA) cultivars were compared to semi-winter-active (SWA) ones for dry matter (DM) yield, seasonal harvest ratios, quality, and agronomic parameters. The SWA cultivars exhibited twice as many overwintered plants and higher summer yields, and were more productive (by 10.4%) in the cooler site. Conversely, HWA cultivars showed enhanced autumn yields and greater productivity (by 10.5%) in the warmer site. Notably, stability analyses revealed trade-offs between productivity and stability, with the most stable cultivar showing lower productivity (by 5.3–5.5%). Additionally, SWA cultivars exhibited higher crude protein content. Plant height and node number correlated with yields in the cool site but not in the warm, underscoring their effectiveness as indirect indicators in marginal environments. Outstanding temperature-specific cultivar responses fully justify the negative relation between winter activity and hardiness regarding productivity. This emphasizes the importance of matching cultivar winter activity and hardiness with specific microenvironments. Region-specific early screening could target the decoupling of the association between low winter activity and increased hardiness, enabling the optimization of cultivars for both traits, while interregional advanced line testing could capitalize on stability and resilience to address the challenges of climate change.
Research on Enhancing the Yield and Quality of Oat Forage: Optimization of Nitrogen and Organic Fertilizer Management Strategies
Authors: Duan Lianxue , Ju Zeliang , Ma Xiang , Pan Jing , Mustafa Abd El-Zaher M. A. , Jia Zhifeng
Published: June 2024

In the context of the increasingly serious issues of resource waste, soil degradation, and environmental pollution caused by excessive nitrogen fertilizer application worldwide, this study conducted a two-year field experiment in Qinghai Province to explore suitable nitrogen fertilizer management strategies for the region. Ten fertilization levels were set, incorporating varying ratios of conventional nitrogen fertilizer and organic fertilizer, as well as the proportion of base fertilizer and topdressing. The focus was on monitoring the forage yield, quality, and related physiological indicators of oats during the flowering and milk stages. The use of correlation analysis and the multi-criteria decision-making model TOPSIS was applied for comprehensive data evaluation to determine the optimal fertilization strategy. After systematic data collection and analysis, the results showed that when 75% conventional nitrogen fertilizer was combined with 4500 kg·hm−2 of organic fertilizer (F4), the oat yield during the milking stage reached its peak at 14,722.48 kg·hm−2. Additionally, the yield effect was optimal (13,677.34 kg·hm−2) when using 30% base fertilizer and 70% jointing fertilizer (D2). Regarding nutritional quality, the fertilization strategy combining 75% conventional nitrogen fertilizer with 4500 kg·hm−2 of organic fertilizer, along with 30% base fertilizer and 70% jointing fertilizer (F4D2), significantly reduced the content of acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and coarse fiber (CF) in oats, while increasing the content of EE (crude fat) and CP (crude protein). This significantly improved the nutritional value of oats. Correlation analysis further revealed the positive effect of fertilization amount and fertilization period on oat yield, as well as a negative correlation with fiber content. Finally, through comprehensive evaluation using the multi-criteria decision-making model TOPSIS, we verified the superiority of the fertilization strategy.
Essential Oils from Southern Italian Aromatic Plants Synergize with Antibiotics against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus faecalis Cell Growth and Biofilm Formation
Authors: Sena Giada , De Rose Elisabetta , Crudo Michele , Filippelli Gianfranco , Passarino Giuseppe , Bellizzi Dina , D’Aquila Patrizia
Published: June 2024

The spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens has prompted the development of novel approaches to identify molecules that synergize with antibiotics to enhance their efficacy. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ten Essential Oils (EOs) on the activity of nine antibiotics in influencing growth and biofilm formation in Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis. The effects of the EOs alone and in combination with antibiotics on both bacterial growth and biofilm formation were analyzed by measuring the MIC values through the broth microdilution method and the crystal violet assay, respectively. All EOs inhibited the growth of E. coli (1.25 ≤ MIC ≤ 5 mg/mL) while the growth of P. aeruginosa and E. faecalis was only affected by EOs from Origanum vulgare, (MIC = 5 mg/mL) and O. vulgare (MIC = 1.25 mg/mL) and Salvia rosmarinus (MIC = 5 mg/mL), respectively. In E. coli, most EOs induced a four- to sixteen-fold reduction in the MIC values of ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, gentamicin, and streptomycin, while in E. faecalis such a reduction is observed in combinations of ciprofloxacin with C. nepeta, C. bergamia, C. limon, C. reticulata, and F. vulgare, of gentamicin with O. vulgare, and of tetracycline with C. limon and O. vulgare. A smaller effect was observed in P. aeruginosa, in which only C. bergamia reduced the concentration of tetracycline four-fold. EO-antibiotic combinations also inhibit the biofilm formation. More precisely, all EOs with ciprofloxacin in E. coli, tetracycline in P. aeruginosa, and gentamicin in E. faecalis showed the highest percentage of inhibition. Combinations induce up- and down-methylation of cytosines and adenines compared to EO or antibiotics alone. The study provides evidence about the role of EOs in enhancing the action of antibiotics by influencing key processes involved in resistance mechanisms such as biofilm formation and epigenetic changes. Synergistic interactions should be effectively considered in dealing with pathogenic microorganisms.
Experimental Study and Analysis on Wear Characteristics of Mining Pumps Transporting Solid-Liquid Two-Phase Flows
Authors: Hong Shunjun , Hu Xiaozhou
Published: June 2024

The use of mining pumps to transport solid-liquid two-phase flows results in solid particles causing varying degrees of wear in the flow-passing components of the pump. In this study, a computational fluid dynamics analysis was performed employing SST k-ω turbulence and discrete phase models to predict the wear characteristics of small two-stage mining pumps. The wear rates of the flow-passing components (first- and second-stage impellers and guide vanes) of the pump were simulated considering three solid-particle sizes under three flow conditions (low flow, rated flow, and high flow), with the highest wear rate occurring on the surfaces of the first-stage guide vane in the low-flow condition. Subsequently, a pump wear experiment was performed using an experimental pump with parameters and structure similar to the numerical model at the pump’s rated flow. The experimental results were compared to numerical results obtained using the same numerical method and wear model. The wear characteristics shown in the numerical and experimental results were consistent with each other. Thus, the numerical method used in this study can accurately predict the wear of flow-passing components in a mining pump, and the method was found to be suitable for the prediction of wear characteristics in mining pumps.
Evaluating Consolidation Centers of an Integrated Transportation Network under the Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Yu Qin , Wang Guangmin , Xiao Yun
Published: June 2024

Following the Belt and Road, the Air Silk Road has also been proposed. The coordinated development of multiple transportation modes, including air, land, and water, will create a strong transportation force in node cities. However, the current insufficient supply of cargo in various regions and the lack of integration among different transportation modes result in low transportation efficiency, which in turn affects the further advancement of the Belt and Road. To investigate these issues and attempt to find a solution, we selected 44 candidate cities from the prefecture-level cities in China as nodes based on relevant government policies, and constructed an integrated transportation network. For each node city, we first calculated the values of six classical indicators and then used the CRITIC to assign weights to each indicator. Subsequently, we employed the TOPSIS method combined with Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) to compute the comprehensive score for each node city. Based on the spatial layout and government policies under the BRI, eight cities, including Wuhan, Chongqing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Lianyungang, Hefei, and Dalian, were finally recommended as the consolidation centers of the integrated transportation network. It is hoped that the results of this analysis can provide some insights for the government to outline and build the consolidation centers of the integrated transportation network composed of railway, air, highway, and water routes, which in turn can offer insights for elevating the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to a new level.
Binder System Composition on the Rheological and Magnetic Properties of Nd-Fe-B Feedstocks for Metal Injection Molding
Authors: Momeni Vahid , Luca Sorana , Gonzalez-Gutierrez Joamin , Cano Santiago , Sueur Emilie , Shahroodi Zahra , Schuschnigg Stephan , Kukla Christian , Holzer Clemens
Published: June 2024

The applications of Nd-Fe-B-based magnets are experiencing significant diversification to achieve efficiency and miniaturization in different technologies. Metal injection molding (MIM) provides new opportunities to manufacture Nd-Fe-B magnets with high geometrical complexity efficiently. In this study, the impacts of the binder system composition and powder loading on the rheological behavior, contamination, and magnetic properties of the Nd-Fe-B MIM parts were investigated. A high-pressure capillary rheometer was used to measure the apparent viscosity and pressure drops for feedstocks with different binder formulations and powder contents. Also, oxygen and carbon contamination, density, and magnetic properties were measured for different feedstock formulations and powder loadings. From the rheological, density, and magnetic properties points of view, the binder system consisting of 45 vol.% LLDPE as backbone was selected as the optimum formulation. The findings indicated that the sample with this binder system and 55 vol.% powder content had a high density (6.83 g/cm3), remanence (0.591 T), and coercivity (744.6 kA/m) compared to other binder compositions. By using 58 vol.% powder loading, the values of density (7.54 g/cm3), remanence (0.618 T), and carbon residue (982 ppm) improved, and a suitable rheological behavior was still observed. Thus, a suitable feedstock formulation was developed.
Analysis of the Odor Purification Mechanism and Smoke Release of Warm-Mixed Rubber Asphalt
Authors: Wang Tao , Bu Wenyu , Cheng Zhiqiang , Ma Rui , Xie Shengjia , Deng Zexiang , Zhu Yuefeng , Zhou Yue
Published: June 2024

This study focuses on the common key technologies of “environmentally friendly and resource-saving” asphalt pavement. Reactive asphalt deodorizers react with volatile chemicals with irritating odors in asphalt under high temperature conditions, converting them into stable and non-volatile macromolecules to remove odors and achieve a deodorizing effect. A goal is to develop clean asphalt pavement materials with the main characteristics of “low consumption, low emissions, low pollution, high efficiency”. In this experimental research, we used gas-emission detection devices and methods to detect and evaluate odor concentration, SO2, NO, volatile organic compounds, and other gases and volatile substances in the production and construction of clean asphalt and mixtures. By combining rheological experiments, mechanical experiments, and other means, this study investigates the effects of odor enhancers on the penetration, ductility, softening point, high-temperature rheological properties, construction, and workability of warm-mix asphalt and mixtures. Furthermore, infrared spectroscopy experiments are used to conduct in-depth research on the odor-enhancing mechanism of odor enhancers. The results indicate that the addition of odor enhancers has little effect on the penetration and softening point of asphalt and maintains the basic performance stability of asphalt. In terms of high-temperature rheological properties and construction workability, the addition of warm-mix agents has a significant impact on the high-temperature failure temperature and rotational viscosity of asphalt, while the influence of deodorizers is relatively small. At higher temperatures, the rotational viscosity increases with the increase in the amount of deodorant added. Functional group analysis shows that the newly added materials have little effect on the essential properties and chemical composition of asphalt. In addition, during the experimental process, it was found that the coupling effect and other chemical reactions between the deodorizing agent and the warm-mixing agent can effectively improve the degradation effect of harmful gases. After the coupling action of deodorant and the warm-mixing agent, the degradation rate of harmful gas can be increased by 5–20%, ensuring the stable performance of asphalt. The performance of powder deodorizing agent is better than that of liquid deodorizing agent, and an increase in the dosage of deodorizing agent will enhance the degradation effect. This study provides an important basis for a deeper understanding of the performance of warm-mix and odorless modified asphalt.
Study on the Influence of Some Ventilation Parameters on Dust Dispersion in Heading Face Coal Mine Using CFD Numerical Model
Authors: Nguyen Quang , Nguyen Thinh , Nguyen Phong
Published: June 2024

Coal dust is one of the environmental factors that seriously affect the health of workers as well as the mining equipment in underground coal mines. At present, coal dust is commonly generated during drilling, blasting, excavation, and transportation processes in mining operations. During mining blasting processes, coal dust is generated with varying particle sizes and high concentration levels. High concentrations of dust will affect mining operations and increase the ventilation time required for mining faces. In addition, coal dust exists in suspended form in the roadway and is harmful to human health, especially fine dust particles that have a negative impact on work efficiency. To improve ventilation efficiency and eliminate coal dust, this article presents a CFD-DPM numerical modeling method that integrates a DEM collision model based on the finite element method to analyze the motion characteristics of airflow and dust particles in the mine tunnel, while considering collisions between particles and between particles and walls. The article analyzes the distribution of wind speed, the dispersion of dust in the space around the roadway, and dust concentrations at distances of 1 m, 3 m, and 6 m from the working personnel and at a position 1.5 m above the roadway floor, corresponding to the breathing zone of the workers, with varying parameters such as velocity and duct position. The results indicate that with a wind velocity of V = 18 m/s and an air duct height h = 3.0 m, the best dust reduction results are achieved, and they provide theoretical guidance for selecting and optimizing ventilation parameters in dust control.
Prediction of Machining Deformation for Split Equal-Base Circle Bevel Gear
Authors: Xu Kai , Xiao Ying , Xin Wen , Cheng Bo , Wang Bin
Published: June 2024

Given the deformation issues in machining segmented equal-base bevel gears, this paper investigates the variations of additional stress during the machining process, considering the gear blank material, residual internal stress, and gear blank design. A model for calculating internal additional stress and torque during gear machining has been developed. The calculation formula for the bending deformation of the gear blank has been derived using the torque–area method. By analyzing the time-varying stiffness of the blank, a calculation model for the bending deformation of the gear blank has been constructed, and the projection analysis of gear stock deformation has been completed. Based on the cumulative superposition effect of its deformation projection, a calculation model for the overall deformation of the segmented gear blank has been formulated. The deformation calculation model has been validated through finite element simulation, deformation calculation, actual machining, and measurement verification.
Designing a Socially Assistive Robot to Assist Older Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Managing Indoor Air Quality
Authors: Hwang Yu-Seong , Lee Othelia Eun-Kyoung , Kim Woo-Jin , Jo Heui-Sug
Published: June 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) stems from airflow blockage and lung damage, and indoor air pollution exacerbates COPD, underscoring the necessity for proactive management. Older COPD patients, prone to respiratory and heat-related issues, require crucial assistance, yet their reduced awareness necessitates ongoing education to identify and enhance indoor air quality. To tackle this challenge, we developed a socially assistive robot (SAR) integrating IoT air quality sensors to guide patients in improving indoor air quality (IAQ). This study evaluated IAQ enhancement among older COPD patients using this technology, uncovering a significant reduction in ‘poor air quality alerts’ with a clear linear trend. Although ‘good alerts’ remained consistent, machine learning models predicted improved air quality post-alerts. Consistent alerts serve as a motivating factor for patients to maintain IAQ standards. However, barriers to SAR utilization, such as psychological and operational hurdles, need to be addressed in future research endeavors.
Enhancing Security in Connected and Autonomous Vehicles: A Pairing Approach and Machine Learning Integration
Authors: Ahmad Usman , Han Mu , Mahmood Shahid
Published: June 2024

The automotive sector faces escalating security risks due to advances in wireless communication technology. Expanding on our previous research using a sensor pairing technique and machine learning models to evaluate IoT sensor data reliability, this study broadens its scope to address security concerns in Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs). The objectives of this research include identifying and mitigating specific security vulnerabilities related to CAVs, thereby establishing a comprehensive understanding of the risks these vehicles face. Additionally, our study introduces two innovative pairing approaches. The first approach focuses on pairing Electronic Control Units (ECUs) within individual vehicles, while the second extends to pairing entire vehicles, termed as vehicle pairing. Rigorous preprocessing of the dataset was carried out to ensure its readiness for subsequent model training. Leveraging Support Vector Machine (SVM) and TinyML methods for data validation and attack detection, we have been able to achieve an impressive accuracy rate of 97.2%. The proposed security approach notably contributes to the security of CAVs against potential cyber threats. The experimental setup demonstrates the practical application and effectiveness of TinyML in embedded systems within CAVs. Importantly, our proposed solution ensures that these security enhancements do not impose additional memory or network loads on the ECUs. This is accomplished by delegating the intensive cross-validation to the central module or Roadside Units (RSUs). This novel approach not only contributes to mitigating various security loopholes, but paves the way for scalable, efficient solutions for resource-constrained automotive systems.
Red Beetroot and Red Capsicum Pepper Purees Boosted with Anise or Fennel Aqueous Extracts
Authors: Tănase (Butnariu) Luiza-Andreea , Nistor Oana-Viorela , Mocanu Gabriel-Dănuț , Andronoiu Doina-Georgeta , Botez Elisabeta , Ștefănescu Bogdan Ioan
Published: June 2024

This research aimed to evaluate the changes induced by two thermal treatments on red beetroot and red capsicum pepper, alongside the addition of anise or fennel aqueous extracts to boost lactation. The cooking loss and yield, phytochemical profile, antioxidant activity, in vitro digestion, FT-IR investigations, and respective statistical analysis were performed for all the puree samples. Cooking loss and yield determined similar values for both vegetables used. Comparatively, between hot air and water vapor convection, the latter proved to be a milder method. By the statistical method, the samples mixed with herbal aqueous extracts presented significantly differences (p < 0.05) compared to the blank samples. Also, the samples mixed with herbal aqueous extracts were statistically significantly different from the control samples. Among the experimented samples, steamed red capsicum pepper puree enriched with aqueous anise extract (EAAA) showed the highest antioxidant activity (71.08 ± 1.9 µM Trolox/g DW). These results might mark the implementation of softer thermal methods for food preparation as well as new purposes for plants. FT-IR analysis revealed the presence of esters, glycosidic bands, pyranoid rings, and pectin, which are specific compounds for the evaluated matrices. The total phenolic content evolution was negatively affected only after the first hour of digestion. In conclusion, red beetroot and red capsicum pepper with anise or fennel aqueous extracts could contribute to improving breastfeeding. Even so, clinical tests and further analysis are necessary in order to confirm the efficacy of such products.
Absolute Rate Constants for the Reaction of Benzil and 2,2′-Furil Triplet with Substituted Phenols in the Ionic Liquid 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium Hexafluorophosphate: A Nanosecond Laser Flash Photolysis Study
Authors: Bertoti Ada Ruth , Netto-Ferreira José Carlos
Published: June 2024

The triplet excited state reactivity towards phenolic hydrogen of the α-diketones benzil and 2,2′-furil in the ionic liquid 1-n-butyl-3-methyl imidazolium hexafluorophosphate [bmim.PF6] was investigated employing the nanosecond laser flash photolysis technique. Irradiation (λmax = 355 nm) of benzil yields its triplet excited state with λmax at 480 nm and τT = 9.6 μs. Under the same conditions, 2,2′-furil shows a triplet-triplet absorption spectrum with bands at 380, 410, 450, and 650 nm and τT = 1.4 μs. Quenching rate constants (kq) of the reaction between benzil triplet and substituted phenols ranged from 1.4 × 107 L mol−1 s−1 (para-chlorophenol) to 1.8 × 108 L mol−1 s−1 (para-methoxyphenol). A new transient was formed in all cases, assigned to the benzil ketyl. Similar results were obtained for the quenching of 2,2′-furil triplet by phenols, for which kq ranged from 1.9 × 108 L mol−1 s−1 (para-chlorophenol) to 2.2 × 108 L mol−1 s−1 (para-methoxyphenol). The 2,2′-furil ketyl radical was also observed in all cases (λmax = 380 nm). The quenching rate constants are almost independent of the substituent and diffusion-controlled (kq ~ 108 L mol−1 s−1). The proposed mechanism for the phenolic hydrogen abstraction by benzil and 2,2′-furil triplet may involve a proton-coupled electron transfer reaction, ultimately leading to the radical pair ketyl/aryloxyl.
Polymeric and Crystalline Materials for Effective and Sustainable CO2 Capture
Authors: Gendron David , Zakharova Maria
Published: June 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is recognized as the primary cause of global warming due to its greenhouse potential. It plays a significant role in contributing to the emissions arising from a variety of anthropogenic activities, such as energy production, transportation, the construction industry, and other industrial processes. Capturing and utilizing CO2 to mitigate its impact on the environment is, therefore, of significant importance. To do so, strategies such as net-zero strategies, deploying capture and storage technologies, and converting CO2 into useful products have been proposed. In this review, we focused our attention on the preparation and performance of polymeric and crystalline materials for efficient CO2 capture. More precisely, we examined MOFs, petroleum-based polymers (amine-based, polymeric ionic liquid, ionic polymer, conjugated macro/micro-cyclic polymer, and porous organic polymer) as well as bio-based polymers for CO2 capture. In brief, the present work aims to guide the reader on the available crafted polymeric and crystalline materials offering a promising avenue towards innovative carbon dioxide capture strategy.
Beneficial Plant–Microbe Interactions and Stress Tolerance in Maize
Authors: Burlakoti Saroj , Devkota Ananta R. , Poudyal Shital , Kaundal Amita
Published: June 2024

Beneficial microbes are crucial for improving crop adaptation and growth under various stresses. They enhance nutrient uptake, improve plant immune responses, and help plants tolerate stresses like drought, salinity, and heat. The yield potential of any crop is significantly influenced by its associated microbiomes and their potential to improve growth under different stressful environments. Therefore, it is crucial and exciting to understand the mechanisms of plant–microbe interactions. Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the primary staple foods worldwide, in addition to wheat and rice. Maize is also an industrial crop globally, contributing 83% of its production for use in feed, starch, and biofuel industries. Maize requires significant nitrogen fertilization to achieve optimal growth and yield. Maize plants are highly susceptible to heat, salinity, and drought stresses and require innovative methods to mitigate the harmful effects of environmental stresses and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. This review summarizes our current understanding of the beneficial interactions between maize plants and specific microbes. These beneficial microbes improve plant resilience to stress and increase productivity. For example, they regulate electron transport, downregulate catalase, and upregulate antioxidants. We also review the roles of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in enhancing stress tolerance in maize. Additionally, we explore the application of these microbes in maize production and identify major knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to utilize the potential of beneficial microbes fully.
Evaluation of qPCR for the Selective Detection of Enteric Adenovirus Followed by Sequence-Based Genetic Characterization of F Strains Circulating in Brazil
Authors: Nascimento Lilian Gonçalves do , Sarmento Sylvia Kahwage , Röpke Junior Reinaldo , Fumian Tulio Machado
Published: June 2024

Human adenovirus (HAdV) F40/41 is an important pathogen in pediatric acute gastroenteritis cases. However, the diversity of study designs and diagnostic methods often leads to misinterpretations of their impact. Our study explored the genetic diversity of HAdV-F40/41 in Brazil using a specific qPCR assay for HAdV species F, combined with a phylogenetic analysis of the partial hexon and fiber genes. Our results demonstrated that HAdV-F41 strains predominated and exhibited higher diversity than HAdV-F40 strains. Based on the hexon gene, Brazilian HAdV-F41 strains were grouped into two genome type clusters (GTC), further divided into subclusters, with most strains clusteringto GTC2. The partial shaft region of the fiber gene exhibited higher conservation among HAdV-F41. The specific qPCR assay for HAdV species F identified HAdV-F in an additional 31.5% (34/108) of previously uncharacterized HAdV-positive samples detected using a non-specific HAdV qPCR assay. Both assays strongly correlated in detecting HAdV-F, and the specific qPCR assay for enteric types can enhance HAdV surveillance, especially when sequencing is not possible. Our study provides novel insights regarding the genetic diversity of HAdV-F species in Brazil.
Postural Stability of Adolescents with Late Cochlear Implantation and Hearing Aids: A Non-Randomized Trial
Authors: Zwierzchowska Anna , Gaweł Eliza , Krużyńska Agata , Słomka Kajetan J. , Żebrowska Aleksandra , Juras Grzegorz
Published: June 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the neuromuscular control of adolescents with late unilateral cochlear implantation and compare them to adolescents with hearing aids (HAs) while performing a balance task on a platform with the conditions of an activated hearing device (cochlear implant (CI)/HAs) with eyes opened/closed (EO/EC). Methods: Forty-eight adolescents with hearing loss participated in the study and were divided into SG (unilateral CI and HA) and CG (bilateral HA). The evaluation of the postural stability was performed with a force plate during two repeating testing trials with EO/EC. Results: SG was characterized by greater values of vCOP compared to CG (EO), while, in CG, greater values of vCOP were noted in the second trial. The type of hearing device was found to be related to the values of area (EO) (p < 0.001), which were always greater in SG, regardless of the visual perception. Conclusions: Late unilateral CI may impact the activation of different models of the auditory compensatory mechanism than HA, which is related to neuromuscular control. The values of vCOP can be predicted by age in late-CI individuals. Visual perception seems not to be related to the values of the area, which can be impacted both by CI and HA.
The Suppression Effect of Water Mist Released at Different Stages on Lithium-Ion Battery Flame Temperature, Heat Release, and Heat Radiation
Authors: Miao Bin , Lv Jiangfeng , Wang Qingbiao , Zhu Guanzhang , Guo Changfang , An Guodong , Ou Jianchun
Published: June 2024

Thermal runaway (TR) is a serious thermal disaster that occurs in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) under extreme conditions and has long been an obstacle to their further development. Water mist (WM) is considered to have excellent cooling capacity and is widely used in the field of fire protection. When used in TR suppression, WM also exhibits strong fire-extinguishing and anti-re-ignition abilities. Therefore, it has received widespread attention and research interest among scholars. However, most studies have focused on the cooling rate and suppression effect of TR propagation, and few have mentioned the effect of WM on flame heat transfer, which is a significant index in TR propagation suppression. This study has explored the suppression effect of WM released at different TR stages and has analyzed flame temperature, heat release, and heat radiation under WM conditions. Results show that the flame extinguishing duration for WM under different TR stages was different. WM could directly put out the flame within several seconds of being released when SV opened, 3 min after SV opening and when TR ended, and 3 min for WM when TR was triggered. Moreover, the heat radiation of the flame in relation to the battery QE could be calculated, and the case of WM released 3 min after SV opening exhibited the greatest proportion of heat radiation cooling η (with a value of 88.4%), which was same for the specific cooling capacity of WM Qm with a value of 1.7 × 10−3 kJ/kg. This is expected to provide a novel focus for TR suppression in LIBs.
A Practical Methodology for Real-Time Adjustment of Kalman Filter Process Noise for Lithium Battery State-of-Charge Estimation
Authors: da Silva Cynthia Thamires , Dias Bruno Martin de Alcântara , Araújo Rui Esteves , Pellini Eduardo Lorenzetti , Laganá Armando Antônio Maria
Published: June 2024

The methodology presented in this work allows for the creation of a real-time adjustment of Kalman Filter process noise for lithium battery state-of-charge estimation. This work innovates by creating a methodology for adjusting the process (Q) and measurement (R) Kalman Filter noise matrices in real-time. The filter algorithm with this adaptative mechanism achieved an average accuracy of 99.56% in real tests by comparing the estimated battery voltage and measured battery voltage. A cell-balancing strategy was also implemented, capable of guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of the battery pack in all conducted tests. This work presents all the methods, equations, and simulations necessary for the development of a battery management system and applies the system in a practical, real environment. The battery management system hardware and firmware were developed, evaluated, and validated on a battery pack with eight LiFePO4 cells, achieving excellent performance on all conducted tests.