bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Load Identification of Unspecified Metal Structures by Measuring Their Response
Authors: Jiang Jinhui , Shen Nansun , Mohamed M. Shadi , Zhang Fang
Published: November 2022

Many engineering structures are made of metal composite materials. External load information is a key issue for the design and condition monitoring of the structures. Due to the limitation of measurement technology and the external environment, it is difficult to directly measure dynamic loads on structures in many circumstances. This paper focuses on evaluating the external load applied on a structure with unknown dynamic properties. We proposed a novel dynamic load identification method that is based on the Bayesian principle coupled with the extended Kalman filter method. Firstly, the modal parameters are identified under ambient excitation using the Bayesian fast Fourier transform method (FFT). The posterior probability density function (PDF) and covariance of the modal parameters are obtained by the Fourier transform of the response data, and then the modal parameters of the structure are obtained based on unconstrained optimization. Next, the extended Kalman filter method in the modal space is used to update the modal parameters and identify the time-domain information of dynamic loads. The accuracy of the proposed theory was evaluated experimentally using a Bernoulli−Euler beam. The results showed that the method is feasible and efficient.
Urine Metabolites Enable Fast Detection of COVID-19 Using Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Moura Alexandre Varao , de Oliveira Danilo Cardoso , Silva Alex Ap. R. , da Rosa Jonas Ribeiro , Garcia Pedro Henrique Dias , Sanches Pedro Henrique Godoy , Garza Kyana Y. , Mendes Flavio Marcio Macedo , Lambert Mayara , Gutierrez Junier Marrero , Granado Nicole Marino , dos Santos Alicia Camacho , de Lima Iasmim Lopes , Negrini Lisamara Dias de Oliveira , Antonio Marcia Aparecida , Eberlin Marcos N. , Eberlin Livia S. , Porcari Andreia M.
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic boosted the development of diagnostic tests to meet patient needs and provide accurate, sensitive, and fast disease detection. Despite rapid advancements, limitations related to turnaround time, varying performance metrics due to different sampling sites, illness duration, co-infections, and the need for particular reagents still exist. As an alternative diagnostic test, we present urine analysis through flow-injection–tandem mass spectrometry (FIA-MS/MS) as a powerful approach for COVID-19 diagnosis, targeting the detection of amino acids and acylcarnitines. We adapted a method that is widely used for newborn screening tests on dried blood for urine samples in order to detect metabolites related to COVID-19 infection. We analyzed samples from 246 volunteers with diagnostic confirmation via PCR. Urine samples were self-collected, diluted, and analyzed with a run time of 4 min. A Lasso statistical classifier was built using 75/25% data for training/validation sets and achieved high diagnostic performances: 97/90% sensitivity, 95/100% specificity, and 95/97.2% accuracy. Additionally, we predicted on two withheld sets composed of suspected hospitalized/symptomatic COVID-19-PCR negative patients and patients out of the optimal time-frame collection for PCR diagnosis, with promising results. Altogether, we show that the benchmarked FIA-MS/MS method is promising for COVID-19 screening and diagnosis, and is also potentially useful after the peak viral load has passed.
Protective Effect of Catharanthus roseus Extract on Cadmium-Induced Toxicity in Albino Rats: A Putative Mechanism of Detoxification
Authors: Hashim Mohammad , Arif Hussain , Tabassum Baby , Arif Amin , Rehman Ahmed A. , Rehman Shahnawaz , Khanam Rehnuma , Khan Bushra , Hussain Arif , Barnawi Jameel , Tayeb Faris J. , Algehainy Naseh , Altemani Faisal H. , Mir Rashid , Almutairi Fahad M. , Ullah Mohammad Fahad , Elfaki Imadeldin , Ajmal Mohammad Rehan
Published: November 2022

Globally, people are highly affected by Cadmium (Cd), the most hazardous heavy metal. It has been implicated in various pathogeneses. Oxidative stress may be one the main reasons for Cd-induced disorders in the body. This article investigates the protective ability of Catharanthus roseus (CR) extract on oxidative stress in the kidney and liver of rats exposed to Cd. After 21 days, a significant increase in MDA concentration (6.81 ± 0.05), (6.64 ± 0.03) was observed in Cd-treated groups compared to the control (5.54 ± 0.02), (5.39 ± 0.04) for the kidney and liver, respectively, while significant changes were observed in the haematological parameters. Antioxidant enzymes, GPx, CAT, and SOD showed a significant decrease in their activity. We established that increasing the concentration of Cd in the presence of H2O2 was able to cause stand scission in pBR322 plasmid DNA, which may be due to the mediation of ROS generated in the process. The antioxidant ability of CR extract was tested in DPPH and H2O2 scavenging assay, depicted by the increase in the percentage inhibition. Upon treatment of CR extract to rats, MDA concentration was decreased for the kidney and liver compared to the Cd-treated groups. This was again confirmed by comet assay of both tissues, where the degree of cellular DNA breakage caused by Cd toxicity decreased significantly upon treatment with CR extract. Overall, the results suggest that Cd plays a major role as an effector metal ion, causing a decrease in the concentration and activity of AO enzymes and enhanced lipid peroxidation. ROS production resulted in oxidative DNA damage within the cell, whereas CR extract showed potential antioxidant activity against ROS-mediated DNA damage induced by Cd poisoning.
First Stage of the Development of an Eco-Friendly Detergent Formulation for Efficient Removal of Carbonized Soil
Authors: Fernandes Andreia P. M. , Ferreira Ana M. , Sebastião Marco , Santos Ricardo , Neves Catarina M. S. S. , Coutinho João A. P.
Published: November 2022

Detergent formulations for cleaning a carbonized soil—degreasers—typically comprise surfactants, organic solvents, phosphate-based cleaning agents, and alkaline agents, which results in high pH values (>11) that raise human and environmental risks. It is important to develop eco-friendly and safer degreasers, while maintaining their cleaning efficiency. In this work, simple degreaser formulations, with a pH below 11 and without phosphates, were developed by using a mixture of solvent, surfactant, and water to remove carbonized soil. The efficiency of the new degreaser formulations (with 5 wt% solvent, 5 wt% nonionic or ionic surfactant, and 90 wt% water) was evaluated by an abrasion test in the removal of carbonized soil from ceramic and stainless steel surfaces and compared with a commercial product. The results obtained show that the formulations comprising isopropylene glycol (IPG) with C11–C13 9EOs and diethylene glycol butyl ether (BDG) with octyltrimethylammonium octanoate ([N1118][C8O2]) present the best cleaning efficiency for both surfaces. The composition of these formulations was optimized for each surface using a mixture design. The resulting formulations, despite having a simpler composition, a pH lower than 11, and being phosphate-free, presented a cleaning efficiency equal or slightly higher than the commercial control. These results show that it is possible to design degreasers that are much less aggressive to the environment and user, while simultaneously fulfilling the market requirements.
Optimization of Sintering Conditions to Enhance the Dielectric Performance of Gd3+ and Ho3+ Codoped BaTiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Bai Jianghui , Liu Qiaoli , Li Xia , Wei Xin , Li Liping
Published: November 2022

BaTiO3 dielectric capacitors, one of the important energy storage devices, play critical roles in storing electricity from renewable energies of water, wind, solar, etc. The synthesis of BaTiO3 ceramics with weak temperature dependence and a high dielectric constant at room temperature (εRT′) is an urgent problem to meet the miniaturization and large capacity of dielectric capacitors. Doping rare earth elements into BaTiO3 can solve this problem, but it is still challenging. In this work, we adopt a synergistic strategy of increasing εRT′ and improving the temperature stability by codoping Gd3+ and Ho3+, respectively, to address this challenge. By carefully adjusting the synthesis conditions in the solid-state reaction, codoping 7% Gd3+ and 7% Ho3+ in BaTiO3 (BGTH7) ceramics were synthesized. The temperature-dependent dielectric constant reveals that the obtained optimal BGTH7 ceramic satisfies the X7U specification and displays a stable ε′ in the temperature range of −55~125 °C. The optimal BGTH7 ceramic after sintering at 1400 °C for 6 h exhibits a high dielectric constant of 5475 and low dielectric loss (tan δ) of 0.0176, hitherto exhibiting the best performance in X7U ceramics. The findings in this work are conducive to the miniaturization and stabilization of dielectric energy storage devices.
Trimetallic Chalcogenide Species: Synthesis, Structures, and Bonding
Authors: Kar Sourav , Chatterjee Debipada , Halet Jean-François , Ghosh Sundargopal
Published: November 2022

In an attempt to isolate boron-containing tri-niobium polychalcogenide species, we have carried out prolonged thermolysis reactions of [Cp*NbCl4] (Cp* = ɳ5-C5Me5) with four equivalents of Li[BH2E3] (E = Se or S). In the case of the heavier chalcogen (Se), the reaction led to the isolation of the tri-niobium cubane-like cluster [(NbCp*)3(μ3-Se)3(BH)(μ-Se)3] (1) and the homocubane-like cluster [(NbCp*)3(μ3-Se)3(μ-Se)3(BH)(μ-Se)] (2). Interestingly, the tri-niobium framework of 1 stabilizes a selenaborate {Se3BH}− ligand. A selenium atom is further introduced between boron and one of the selenium atoms of 1 to yield cluster 2. On the other hand, the reaction with the sulfur-containing borate adduct [LiBH2S3] afforded the trimetallic clusters [(NbCp*)3(μ-S)4{μ-S2(BH)}] (3) and [(NbCp*)3(μ-S)4{μ-S2(S)}] (4). Both clusters 3 and 4 have an Nb3S6 core, which further stabilizes {BH} and mono-sulfur units, respectively, through bi-chalcogen coordination. All of these species were characterized by 11B{1H}, 1H, and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray crystallography. Moreover, theoretical investigations revealed that the triangular Nb3 framework is aromatic in nature and plays a vital role in the stabilization of the borate, borane, and chalcogen units.
Medicinal Values and Potential Risks Evaluation of Ginkgo biloba Leaf Extract (GBE) Drinks Made from the Leaves in Autumn as Dietary Supplements
Authors: Su Xiaojia , Shi Ruirui , Hu Haiyan , Hu Linfeng , Wei Qichao , Guan Yuanyuan , Chang Jingling , Li Chengwei
Published: November 2022

Ginkgo tea and ginkgo wine are two familiar Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (GBE) drinks in the form of dietary supplements (DS) used for healthcare in east Asia. Nevertheless, a comprehensive evaluation of their safety and efficacy is still lacking. In this study, GBE drinks were prepared from naturally newly senescent yellow leaves (YL) and green leaves (GL) in autumn. Their total flavonoids, antioxidant capacity and prescribed ingredients were investigated. In brief, the proportions of total flavonoids, total flavonol glycosides (TFs), total terpene trilactones (TTLs) and ginkgolic acids in the GBE drinks all did not meet the standards of worldwide pharmacopoeias. Specifically, the levels of TFs in the ginkgo tea prepared from YL were significantly higher than that prepared from GL. Further analyses revealed a substandard ratio of isorhamnetin/quercetin and an accumulation of leaf-age-related compounds, which were both unqualified. The proportions of specific TTLs varied between the ginkgo tea and ginkgo wine, although no significant differences were detected in terms of the total levels of TTLs. Noticeably, numerous biflavones and thousands of times over the limiting concentration of ginkgolic acids, including newly identified types, were only detected in ginkgo wine. Finally, the use of the GBE drinks as DSs was comprehensively evaluated according to the acceptable daily intake. This study showed the limited healthcare effects of GBE drinks despite their powerful antioxidant capacity.
Functional Nanomaterials: From Structures to Biomedical Applications
Authors: Chen Wansong , Liu Keyin , Zhang Jianhua
Published: November 2022

In recent decades, a number of functional nanomaterials have attracted a great amount of attention and exhibited excellent performance for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications [...]
A New Ratiometric Fluorescent Probe Based on BODIPY for Highly Selective Detection of Hydrogen Sulfide
Authors: Xiang Huan , Ye Tianqing , Li Yanbo , Lin Yanfei , Liu Dan , Zhou Hongwei , Wang Jianbo , Li Lei
Published: November 2022

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as small molecular signal messenger plays key functions in numerous biological processes. The imaging detection of intracellular hydrogen sulfide is of great significance. In this work, a ratiometric fluorescent probe BH based on an asymmetric BODIPY dye for detection of H2S was designed and synthesized. After the interaction with hydrogen sulfide, probe display colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescence response, with its maximum emission fluorescence wavelength red-shifted from 542 nm to 594 nm, which is attributed to the sequential nucleophilic reaction of H2S leading to enhanced molecular conjugation after ring formation of the BODIPY skeleton. A special response mechanism has been fully investigated by NMR titration and MS, so that the probe has excellent detection selectivity. Furthermore, probe BH has low cytotoxicity and fluorescence imaging experiments indicate that it can be used to monitor hydrogen sulfide in living cells.
Recent Development of Carbon-Nanotube-Based Solar Heat Absorption Devices and Their Application
Authors: Islam Saiful , Furuta Hiroshi
Published: November 2022

Population growth and the current global weather patterns have heightened the need to optimize solar energy harvesting. Solar-powered water filtration, electricity generation, and water heating have gradually multiplied as viable sources of fresh water and power generation, especially for isolated places without access to water and energy. The unique thermal and optical characteristics of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) enable their use as efficient solar absorbers with enhanced overall photothermal conversion efficiency under varying solar light intensities. Due to their exceptional optical absorption efficiency, low cost, environmental friendliness, and natural carbon availability, CNTs have attracted intense scientific interest in the production of solar thermal systems. In this review study, we evaluated CNT-based water purification, thermoelectric generation, and water heating systems under varying solar levels of illumination, ranging from domestic applications to industrial usage. The use of CNT composites or multilayered structures is also reviewed in relation to solar heat absorber applications. An aerogel containing CNTs was able to ameliorate water filtering performance at low solar intensities. CNTs with a Fresnel lens improved thermoelectric output power at high solar intensity. Solar water heating devices utilizing a nanofluid composed of CNTs proved to be the most effective. In this review, we also aimed to identify the most relevant challenges and promising opportunities in relation to CNT-based solar thermal devices.
Encapsulation of Luminescent Gold Nanoclusters into Synthetic Vesicles
Authors: Chiechio Regina M. , Ducarre Solène , Marets Célia , Dupont Aurélien , Even-Hernandez Pascale , Pinson Xavier , Dutertre Stéphanie , Artzner Franck , Musumeci Paolo , Ravel Célia , Faro Maria Jose Lo , Marchi Valérie
Published: November 2022

Gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) are attractive luminescent nanoprobes for biomedical applications. In vivo biosensing and bioimaging requires the delivery of the Au NCs into subcellular compartments. In this view, we explore here the possible encapsulation of ultra-small-sized red and blue emitting Au NCs into liposomes of various sizes and chemical compositions. Different methods were investigated to prepare vesicles containing Au NCs in their lumen. The efficiency of the process was correlated to the structural and morphological aspect of the Au NCs’ encapsulating vesicles thanks to complementary analyses by SAXS, cryo-TEM, and confocal microscopy techniques. Cell-like-sized vesicles (GUVs) encapsulating red or blue Au NCs were successfully obtained by an innovative method using emulsion phase transfer. Furthermore, exosome-like-sized vesicles (LUVs) containing Au NCs were obtained with an encapsulation yield of 40%, as estimated from ICP-MS.
Natural Populations of Astrocaryum aculeatum Meyer in Amazonia: Genetic Diversity and Conservation
Authors: Ramos Santiago Linorio Ferreyra , Lopes Maria Teresa Gomes , Meneses Carlos , Dequigiovanni Gabriel , de Macêdo Jeferson Luis Vasconcelos , Lopes Ricardo , Sebbenn Alexandre Magno , da Silva Rogério Freire , de Jesus Pinto Fraxe Therezinha , Veasey Elizabeth Ann
Published: November 2022

Astrocaryum aculeatum, a palm tree incipiently domesticated from upland ecosystems in the Brazilian Amazon, is especially adapted to anthropized areas. The pulp of the fruit, obtained by extractivism, is consumed fresh by the Amazonian population. The objective of the study is to evaluate the diversity and genetic structure of the natural populations of A. aculeatum, exploited by extractive farmers in Amazonas, Brazil, seeking to suggest conservation and management strategies for this species. A total of 218 plants were sampled in 15 populations in 14 municipalities in the state of Amazonas, evaluated by 12 microsatellite loci. A total of 101 alleles were observed. The means of the observed heterozygosities (HO = 0.6390) were higher than expected (HE = 0.557), with high levels of heterozygotes in the populations. The fixation index in the loci and populations was negative. The FST (0.07) and AMOVA showed moderate population structure. Bayesian analysis indicated the grouping k = 4 as the most adequate. There is a high genetic diversity in populations, with a moderate genetic structure due to possible historical events, which could be related to the process of subpopulation formation, possibly presenting three historical moments: before and after the beginning of deforestation and today. The conservation and management policies of this species must be carried out at a watershed level.
Dissection of Genetic Effects, Heterosis, and Inbreeding Depression for Phytochemical Traits in Coriander
Authors: Hanifei Mehrdad , Gholizadeh Amir , Khodadadi Mostafa , Mehravi Shaghayegh , Hanifeh Mehnosh , Edwards David , Batley Jacqueline
Published: November 2022

Increasing seed yield, fatty acids, and essential oil content are the main objectives in breeding coriander. However, in order to achieve this, there is a need to understand the nature of gene action and quantify the heterosis and inbreeding depression. Towards this, six genetically diverse parents, their 15 F1 one-way hybrids, and 15 F2 populations were evaluated under different water treatments. The genetic effects of general (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) and their interactions with water treatment were significant for five traits. Water deficit stress decreased all traits in both F1 and F2 generations except for the essential oil content, which was significantly increased due to water deficit stress. Under water deficit stress, a non-additive gene action was predominant in the F1 generation, while an additive gene action was predominant in the F2 generation for all the traits except seed yield under severe water deficit stress. There was a positive high heterosis for the traits examined in some hybrids. Furthermore, in the F2 generation, even after inbreeding depression, some promising populations displayed appropriate mean performance. The results show that the parents used for crossing had a rich, diverse gene pool for the traits studied. Therefore, selection between the individuals of relevant F2 populations could be used to develop high yielding hybrids or superior lines.
Effect of the Soil Matric Potential on the Germination Capacity of Prosopis chilensis, Quillaja saponaria and Cryptocarya alba from Contrasting Geographical Origins
Authors: Faúndez Ángela , Magni Carlos R. , Martínez-Herrera Eduardo , Espinoza Sergio , Vaswani Suraj , Yañez Marco A. , Gréz Iván , Seguel Oscar , Abarca-Rojas Betsabé , Quiroz Iván
Published: November 2022

As a consequence of the megadrought in Central Chile, it is expected that most of the distribution of woody species will be narrowed in the northern limits because of restrictions imposed by soil matric potential on seed germination. In this study, we analyzed the effect of the soil matric potential on seed germination and initial recruitment of the sclerophyllous species Prosopis chilensis, Quillaja saponaria and Cryptocarya alba from contrasting geographic origins (i.e., seed sources). We evaluated the germination capacity (%) under different matric potentials (i.e., 0, −6, −33, −750 and −1250 kPa) for 100 days. Soil matric potential of −1250 kPa negatively affected the germination capacity of the three species. P. chilensis seeds stopped germinating under soil matric potential close to −1200 kPa, whereas in Q. saponaria and C. alba the complete inhibition of germination was under −1000 kPa. Seed sources also differed in their germination capacity by soil matric potential: northern seed sources of P. chilensis germinated with the lowest soil matric potential. There was no clear trend in Q. saponaria and C. alba, but in general, southern seed sources performed better than the northern ones. The results showed that Ѱm in the soil played an important role in the germinative capacity against different seed source origins, but not in soils with a north–south gradient.
Soybean Protein and Oil Variants Identified through a Forward Genetic Screen for Seed Composition
Authors: Hudson Karen
Published: November 2022

Mutagenesis remains an important tool in soybean biology. In classical plant mutation breeding, mutagenesis has been a trusted approach for decades, creating stable non-transgenic variation, and many mutations have been incorporated into germplasm for several crops, especially to introduce favorable seed composition traits. We performed a genetic screen for aberrant oil or protein composition of soybean seeds, and as a result isolated over 100 mutant lines for seed composition phenotypes, with particular interest in high protein or high oil phenotypes. These lines were followed for multiple seasons and generations to select the most stable traits for further characterization. Through backcrossing and outcrossing experiments, we determined that a subset of the lines showed recessive inheritance, while others showed a dominant inheritance pattern that suggests the involvement of multiple loci and genetic mechanisms. These lines can be used as a resource for future studies of the genetic control of seed protein and oil content in soybean.
A Framework for Satellite-Based 3D Cloud Data: An Overview of the VIIRS Cloud Base Height Retrieval and User Engagement for Aviation Applications
Authors: Noh Yoo-Jeong , Haynes John M. , Miller Steven D. , Seaman Curtis J. , Heidinger Andrew K. , Weinrich Jeffrey , Kulie Mark S. , Niznik Mattie , Daub Brandon J.
Published: November 2022

Satellites have provided decades of valuable cloud observations, but the data from conventional passive radiometers are biased toward information from at or near cloud top. Tied with the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Cloud Calibration/Validation research, we developed a statistical Cloud Base Height (CBH) algorithm using the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) A-Train satellite data. This retrieval, which is currently part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Enterprise Cloud Algorithms, provides key information needed to display clouds in a manner that goes beyond the typical top-down plan view. The goal of this study is to provide users with high-quality three-dimensional (3D) cloud structure information which can maximize the benefits and performance of JPSS cloud products. In support of the JPSS Proving Ground Aviation Initiative, we introduced Cloud Vertical Cross-sections (CVCs) along flight routes over Alaska where satellite data are extremely helpful in filling significant observational gaps. Valuable feedback and insights from interactions with aviation users allowed us to explore a new approach to provide satellite-based 3D cloud data. The CVC is obtained from multiple cloud retrieval products with supplementary data such as temperatures, Pilot Reports (PIREPs), and terrain information. We continue to improve the product demonstrations based on user feedback, extending the domain to the contiguous United States with the addition of the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES)-16 Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI). Concurrently, we have refined the underlying science algorithms for improved nighttime and multilayered cloud retrievals by utilizing Day/Night Band (DNB) data and exploring machine learning approaches. The products are evaluated using multiple satellite data sources and surface measurements. This paper presents our accomplishments and continuing efforts in both scientific and user-engagement improvements since the beginning of the VIIRS era.
Pantograph Detection Algorithm with Complex Background and External Disturbances
Authors: Tan Ping , Cui Zhisheng , Lv Wenjian , Li Xufeng , Ding Jin , Huang Chuyuan , Ma Jien , Fang Youtong
Published: November 2022

As an important equipment for high-speed railway (HSR) to obtain electric power from outside, the state of the pantograph will directly affect the operation safety of HSR. In order to solve the problems that the current pantograph detection method is easily affected by the environment, cannot effectively deal with the interference of external scenes, has a low accuracy rate and can hardly meet the actual operation requirements of HSR, this study proposes a pantograph detection algorithm. The algorithm mainly includes three parts: the first is to use you only look once (YOLO) V4 to detect and locate the pantograph region in real-time; the second is the blur and dirt detection algorithm for the external interference directly affecting the high-speed camera (HSC), which leads to the pantograph not being detected; the last is the complex background detection algorithm for the external complex scene “overlapping” with the pantograph when imaging, which leads to the pantograph not being recognized effectively. The dirt and blur detection algorithm combined with blob detection and improved Brenner method can accurately evaluate the dirt or blur of HSC, and the complex background detection algorithm based on grayscale and vertical projection can greatly reduce the external scene interference during HSR operation. The algorithm proposed in this study was analyzed and studied on a large number of video samples of HSR operation, and the precision on three different test samples reached 99.92%, 99.90% and 99.98%, respectively. Experimental results show that the algorithm proposed in this study has strong environmental adaptability and can effectively overcome the effects of complex background and external interference on pantograph detection, and has high practical application value.
Numerical and Experimental Research on Non-Reference Damage Localization Based on the Improved Two-Arrival-Time Difference Method
Authors: Wu Yaogang , Liu Kangwei , Li Dinghe , Shen Xing , Lu Pengcheng
Published: November 2022

The identification of damage based on Lamb waves can hardly avoid obtaining the reference signal under healthy conditions. A non-reference damage localization (NRDL) method is proposed in this paper. The NRDL method is established by the improved two-arrival-time difference method (2/ATDM) and BFGS method. The layout principles of the piezoelectric ceramic lead zirconate titanate (PZT) transducer array in the specimen are proposed. In contrast to existing methods, the damage outside the array in the specimen is identified based on the NRDL. The full-area damage location in the specimen is realized. Furthermore, the optimization of the excitation signal center frequency and transducer array layout is carried out. The damage location accuracy is greatly improved.
Matching-Based Resource Allocation for Satellite–Ground Network
Authors: Ding Huixia , Zhu Sicheng , Meng Sachula , Han Jinxia , Liu Heng , Wang Miao , Liu Jiayan , Qin Peng , Zhao Xiongwen
Published: November 2022

With the vigorous development of information and communication technology, mobile internet has undergone tremendous changes. How to achieve global coverage of the network has become the primary problem to be solved. GEO satellites and LEO satellites, as important components of the satellite–ground network, can offer service for hotspots or distant regions where ground-based base stations’ coverage is limited. Therefore, we build a satellite–ground network model, which transforms the satellite–ground network resource allocation problem into a matching issue between GEO satellites, LEO satellites, and users. A GEO satellite provides data backhaul for users, and a LEO satellite provides data transmission services according to users’ requests. It is important to consider the relationships between all entities and establish a distributed scheme, so we propose a three-sided cyclic matching algorithm. It is confirmed by a large number of simulation experiments that the method suggested in this research is better than the conventional algorithm in terms of average delay, satellite revenue, and number of users served.
Gait Trajectory Prediction on an Embedded Microcontroller Using Deep Learning
Authors: Karakish Mohamed , Fouz Moustafa A. , ELsawaf Ahmed
Published: November 2022

Achieving a normal gait trajectory for an amputee’s active prosthesis is challenging due to its kinematic complexity. Accordingly, lower limb gait trajectory kinematics and gait phase segmentation are essential parameters in controlling an active prosthesis. Recently, the most practiced algorithm in gait trajectory generation is the neural network. Deploying such a complex Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithm on an embedded system requires performing the calculations on an external computational device; however, this approach lacks mobility and reliability. In this paper, more simple and reliable ANNs are investigated to be deployed on a single low-cost Microcontroller (MC) and hence provide system mobility. Two neural network configurations were studied: Multi-Layered Perceptron (MLP) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN); the models were trained on shank and foot IMU data. The data were collected from four subjects and tested on a fifth to predict the trajectory of 200 ms ahead. The prediction was made for two cases: with and without providing the current phase of the gait. Then, the models were deployed on a low-cost microcontroller (ESP32). It was found that with fewer data (excluding the current gait phase), CNN achieved a better correlation coefficient of 0.973 when compared to 0.945 for MLP; when including the current phase, both network configurations achieved better correlation coefficients of nearly 0.98. However, when comparing the execution time required for the prediction on the intended MC, MLP was much faster than CNN, with an execution time of 2.4 ms and 142 ms, respectively. In summary, it was found that when training data are scarce, CNN is more efficient within the acceptable execution time, while MLP achieves relative accuracy with low execution time with enough data.
Parent-to-Parent Advice: What Can We Learn by Listening to Parents of Deaf Children
Authors: Flowers Linsay , Duchesne Louise , Gaucher Charles
Published: November 2022

Parent-to-parent support is an important component of early hearing detection and intervention (EHDI) programs for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. In this study, we asked parents of DHH children what advice they would give to new parents in their situation. Seventy-one hearing parents of DDH children living in Canada, Switzerland, France, and Belgium participated in interviews that included the following question: “What advice you would give to parents who just learned that their child is deaf?”. We performed a thematic analysis and developed three overarching themes, revolving around the importance of trust, the need for reassurance, and finally, the quest for help. The findings allow to better understand how parental expertise can be used to improve early intervention services for DHH children.
Legal aspects of social responsibility of hospitality enterprises in the field of environmental safety
Authors:   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Udalov D. E.
Published: November 2022

The article discusses the issues of legal regulation of the application of environmental management principles in the activities of organizations providing temporary accommodation services. According to the concept of social responsibility of entrepreneurial activity, the necessity of forming an environmental management system in the management of a hotel enterprise is justified. The provisions of the Russian legislation defining the requirements in the field of environmental safety imposed on organizations in the course of their activities are analyzed.
Modern forms of organization and development of animation activities in hotel enterprises
Authors:   Moscow State University of Sport and Tourism, Dement’eva V. A. , Kovaleva N. I. ,   Moscow State University of Sport and Tourism
Published: November 2022

The article discusses the process of improving the quality of service in hotel enterprises through animation activities. In the last decade, the tourism industry in Russia has been rapidly developing: new hotels, tourist complexes, tourism business enterprises and travel agencies appear, and animation is considered as a whole industry of hotel service, its integral part. Every industry is affected by how well it is managed. Quality indicators and problems with the production of quality products are specific to each sector, including the hospitality industry. Satisfaction with the needs of guests is the main task of any hotel, therefore, hospitality industry enterprises are interested not only in providing accommodation services, but also in organizing their leisure time and providing additional services. At present, the animation service has received a completely new trend — it is both a kind of animation programs, and improving their quality in serving guests, of course, and as one of the forms of advertising for a hotel company that can re-attract not only guests who are already on vacation, but also their acquaintances.
Integration of United States, Thailand and Philippine Canned Tuna Markets
Authors: HERRICK S.F. , SQUIRES D.
Published: November 2022

In this study we investigate price integration in the United States, Thailand and Philippine canned tuna markets by employing a dynamic model of spatial price differentials to determine how rapidly and completely price information is transmitted from one market to another over time. When the United States is assumed to be the central canned tuna market, we find that the Thai canned tuna market operates independently of price conditions in the United States. On the other hand, the Philippine market is well integrated with the United States market in the sense that a change in the United States price is quickly and effectively communicated to the Philippine market. These results are shown to have significant implications with regard to measures the United States might take to control the flow of canned tuna imports from Southeast Asia.
L’aménagement du val de Maine
Authors: Jeanneau Jacques
Published: November 2022

La vallée de la Maine, sans doute guidée par des failles, est un chapelet de petites plaines alluviales submersibles , bordées par deux niveaux discontinus de terrasses et dominées par des coteaux appalachiens.

Jadis, la Maine à Angers se divisait en plusieurs bras, et il n'existait qu'un seul pont. Au XIXème siècle, les Angevins ont canalisé la rivière en un unique chenal et construit des quais et deux autres ponts .

Aujourd'hui, les prairies inondables, difficilement constructibles, constituent pour Angers une précieuse réserve foncière. D'importants travaux d'aménagement sont en cours : remblaiement des prairies, plan d'eau, quatrième pont, voie express de berge et rénovation des bas quartiers. Ces mutations d'un célèbre paysage, qui posent un certain nombre de problèmes, suscitent des craintes que l'auteur juge excessives.
Les élites et les ilotes. Par-delà l'économie et l'écologie : l'éthologie
Authors: Palierne Jean-Max
Published: November 2022

Dans ce texte, l’Auteur dénonce, en notations rapides, les excès des conceptions exclusives de l’Economie et de l'Ecologie. Des conflits inévitables, qui surgissent entre ces deux façons antithétiques et incomplètes de regarder la réalité, résultent confusion et enflure. A l'Economie triomphaliste et maximaliste s'opposent en effet diverses formes d' Ecologie : la naïve, la mythique, la mystique, la détournée, et, dernière-née, l'"humaine". L'Auteur montre qu'il faut dépasser ces points de vue restrictifs et raisonner plus en termes de comportement que de milieu. Il étend aux végétaux le domaine de l'Ethologie et rapproche celle-ci de l'Ethique. L'Homme, vivant parmi les autres vivants, n'est pas qu'un "casseur" de paysages ; il est aussi un créateur. Pour assurer à la fois à l'Homme dignité et information claire, l'Auteur pense que la coopération sincère et véritable des hommes de sciences est devenue un impératif catégorique.
Quelques éléments issus de "l’analyse des facteurs et moyens d'évolution du monde agricole au sein d'une commune rurale de Loire-Atlantique : Nort-sur-Erdre"
Authors: Jalaber Jean-Yves
Published: November 2022

La recherche des "facteurs et moyens d'évolution du monde agricole" dans la commune de Nort sur Erdre, fait apparaître le rôle essentiel du choix fait par chaque agriculteur. Depuis un quart de siècle, dans une période d'intenses transformations agricoles, plus que par des facteurs naturels et objectifs tels que les conditions du milieu physique ou les structures parcellaires et foncières des exploitations , ce choix est déterminé par des facteurs sociologiques influant sur la décision de l'individu, tels que la formation, l'information ou l'ambiance communale. Ce choix de l'évolution débouche dans un premier temps sur une certaine intégration aux données nouvelles de l'économie agricole. Cependant les actions communes des agriculteurs (au niveau de l'utilisation des techniques, des modes de production ou de la commercialisation) qui, en bousculant l'individualisme, se sont révélées être les meilleurs moyens de l'évolution, apparaissent aujourd'hui primordiales pour mettre en place des structures agricoles autres que celles imposées par l'économie capitaliste.
Les interrelations dans le tertiaire supérieur nantais. Étude sur la dynamisation d'une économie urbaine.
Authors: Mesnard Annie , Vigarié André
Published: November 2022

Les entreprises de prestations de services dans les villes ne sont pas simplement juxtaposées ; elles sont réunies par des réseaux d'interrelations qui sont une nécessité fonctionnelle. L'étude cherche à analyser le "milieu" constitué par ces réseaux, en prenant comme exemple le cas de Nantes. Elle tend à déceler les mécanismes et les processus sous-jacents, la faculté de dynamisation ou de freinage que ce "milieu" peut avoir spontanément pour l'économie urbaine.

Le point de départ est constitué pour l'ensemble d'une enquête collective et de monographies de détail qui permettent d'aborder successivement : le cadre général que constitue l'ensemble tertiaire nantais, les formes générales des interrelations externes et internes, l'analyse aussi précise que possible des réseaux d'interrelations abordée par des méthodes nouvelles, les conséquences sur la centralité et la dynamisation urbaine de Nantes, avec en conclusion, la généralisation de ces problèmes.
L'industrialisation récente de l'agglomeration d’Angers. Un aménagement volontaire nécessaire dans l'activité professionnelle angevine : un nouvel espace industriel organisé et l'exemple d'un grand établissement intégré : l'usine Thomson.
Authors: Lazzarotti Raymond
Published: November 2022

Angers a une situation économique intermédiaire, entre celle des métropoles et celle des espaces non métropolisés. La ville bénéficie de la poussée démographique importante de l'Anjou dans son ensemble, mais aussi la supporte. Pourtant, elle n'a disposé d'un développement et d'un équipement industriels valables que tardivement, lorsqu'elle a aménagé plusieurs zones industrielles, et lorsque l'accélération de l'exode rural lui a confié définitivement la mission de fournir un emploi urbain aux migrants des campagnes. La décentralisation des usines lui fournit une seconde occasion d'essor industriel : c'est l'autre thème d'étude principal, illustré par l'analyse des entreprises d'électronique (Thomson, Honeywell-Bull...). Les conséquences pour l'agglomération en sont

soulignées.
Culture post-urbaine à Los-Angelès
Authors: Brino Giovanni
Published: November 2022

La croissance de Los Angeles jusqu’ici sans précédent et sans aucune autre analogie a fourni l'occasion de créer un modèle tout neuf de super-city, entièrement fondé sur le transport individuel, le seul qui soit vraiment adéquat par ses dimensions et par ses qualités d'environnement aux fins poursuivies par la nouvelle société de consommation.

La culture très particulière qui a commencé à se développer sur le territoire angélinien et qui a eu Hollywood comme matrice d'origine, peut être définie sans hésitation comme une culture post-urbaine dans la mesure où elle a su l'emporter sur la dichotomie existant entre la culture urbaine et la culture suburbaine, rendant par là possibles une forme et un fonctionnement de type urbain différent de celui conçu par les urbanistes traditionnels.

Du point de vue géographique, à cause de la totale artificialisation du territoire, Los Angelès a fini par se configurer comme le prototype le plus évident et en même temps le plus paradoxal de région volontaire, qui est le concept formulé par la géographie culturelle américaine la plus avancée pour désigner le modèle régional le plus antithétique à celui de région traditionnelle.

A propos de cette hypothèse de croissance du territoire, unique en son genre, l'auteur se demande quel sens peut encore avoir un terme traditionnel comme celui de planification (planning) et quel rôle effectif peut avoir joué un organisme administratif comme le Service de Planification Urbaine de Los Angelès dans la formation de l'image de la ville.
La maitrise de l'eau dans les près-marais de l'estuaire de la Loire : étude comparée.
Authors: Gras Jacques
Published: November 2022

Water-control in the "marsh-meadows" of the Loire estuary : a comparative study.

The Loire estuary is fringed on both its Northern and Southern banks with plains that are partially occupied by large marshy areas communicating with the stream.

When the Loire is in spate, or swollen by the tide, or just during the heavy showers of the cold season, those marshes are flooded. In the hot season, on the contrary, they are usually free from water and open to the herds. Towards the end of summer they are often too dry and it becomes then necessary to send them water from the stream, when an exceptionnally hig tide occurs. Wood or metal water-gates, electrically or hand-operated, enable the producers grouped in associations to control the flow of water, to drain or irrigate as required.

Such systems are extremely old. The text studies the devices

built in the Middle-Ages (12th century) and especially in the 18th and

19th centuries. They have continually been improved, though not everywhere, and the survey describes the latest ones, which are much more important on the Southern bank, in the "Pays de Retz", than in the North.

Why do so many differences exist from one area to another ?

Is it because the Physical Geography of those "marsh-meadows", (which are never totally alike), demands the use of particular techniques for everyone of them ? Or does the North-South opposition reflect a historical situation dating back to two thousand years, when the Loire acted as a border between the Gallo-roman territories, and when the Aquitaine spread as far -as the

left bank ? Should those differences be accounted for in terms of Physical or in terms of mental habits ? Or both ?
Utilisation du littoral et contraintes juridiques
Authors: Cabanne Claude
Published: November 2022

L'utilisation du littoral est codifiée pour protéger le milieu naturel et limiter les conflits. De nombreux textes se sont ajoutés à l'Ordonnance de la Marine de Colbert. Ils règlent l'utilisation du domaine public maritime, en principe inaliénable, selon le système des concessions. La pêche fait également l'objet d'une règlementation précise. Enfin, les documents d'urbanisme (SDAU POS). trouvent sur le rivage des applications importantes. Un effort a été fait depuis une dizaine d'années en matière de protection du littoral : création du Conservatoire de l'espace littoral, directive d'aménagement de 1979, loi littorale de novembre 1985 qui fait référence aux SAUM (schémas d'aptitude et d'utilisation de la mer).
"Entre la terre et l'eau : la Baie de Bourgneuf, enjeux pour l'aménagement". Production audio-visuelle, Bilan Technique
Authors: Grosselet Jean-Paul , Surget Jean-François
Published: November 2022

Dans le cadre de l'A.T.P., un film de 57 minutes a été réalisé grâce à une collaboration étroite entre les chercheurs de l'équipe et deux techniciens du Service Universitaire Audio-Visuel de l'Université de Nantes. La réalisation du film a demandé environ 250 heures de travail. L'expérience a été très fructueuse pour les deux parties ; les techniciens ont du adapter leur matériel à des conditions de terrain souvent contraignantes et travailler dans une perspective qui dépasse le simple reportage, de leur côté, les enseignants-chercheurs ont du se plier aux exigences techniques de la prise de vue, du scénario, du montage et les assimiler suffisamment pour utiliser l'image-son comme moyen d'expression scientifique.
Le programme de travail de la Commission sur l’environnement côtier de l’Union Géographique Internationale
Authors: Paskoff Roland
Published: November 2022

The report summarizes the current research projects carried out by the Commission on the Coastal Environment of the Intemationational Geographical Union.
L’industrie minière dans la mer : perspectives d’une recherche géographique
Authors: Spinelli Giorgio
Published: November 2022

The exploitation of hydrocarbons and polymetallic nodules seems to become more and more promising. Anyway

the actual degree of knowledge on deep-sea mining resources and metallurgic technics on nodules suggest more cautious evaluations. Geography can give a valuable support to better understand the true chances of deep-sea mining, respect to same resources inshore, and their possible relations with the ports and coastal industries.
Les retombées sur les littoraux de l’exploitation offshore des hydrocarbures
Authors: Lerat Serge
Published: November 2022

L’auteur souligne que l’offshore fournit actuellement le quart de la production mondiale de pétrole. Cela ne

peut pas ne pas entraîner de retombées sur les littoraux : directes sous la forme d’aménagement côtier, indirectes sous la forme des répercussions économiques diverses. D’où la possibilité d’établir une hiérarchie de ces retombées, dans laquelle il apparaît qu’elles sont d’autant plus importantes que le littoral était antérieurement plus développé.