bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Modeling of Structure and Dynamics of Concentrated Tornado-like Vortices: A Review
Authors: Varaksin Aleksey Yu. , Ryzhkov Sergei V.
Published: July 2023

Mathematical modeling is the most important tool for constructing the theory of concentrated tornado-like vortices. A review and analysis of computational and theoretical works devoted to the study of the generation and dynamics of air tornado-like vortices has been conducted. Models with various levels of complexity are considered: a simple analytical model based on the Bernoulli equation, an analytical model based on the vorticity equation, a new class of analytical solutions of the Navier–Stokes equations for a wide class of vortex flows, and thermodynamic models. The approaches developed to date for the numerical simulation of tornado-like vortices are described and analyzed. Considerable attention is paid to developed approaches that take into account the two-phase nature of tornadoes. The final part is devoted to the analysis of modern ideas about the tornado, concerning its structure and dynamics (up to the breakup) and the conditions for its occurrence (tornadogenesis). Mathematical modeling data are necessary for interpreting the available field measurements while also serving as the basis for planning the physical modeling of tornado-like vortices in the laboratory.
Design of Aluminum Alloy H-Sections under Minor-Axis Bending
Authors: Yuan Lin , Zhang Qilin , Zhang Shaoquan , Ge Hanbin
Published: July 2023

Much research has been reported on the global response of aluminum alloy H-sections members, while studies on the local buckling behavior of H-sections under pure bending remain relatively limited. The purpose of the research is to investigate the response of aluminum alloy H-sections subjected to minor axis bending. Using a finite element model, this study analyzed the stress distribution and failure mechanism of aluminum alloy H-sections under minor-axis bending and obtained the ultimate capacities of cross-sections covering a wide range of plate slenderness. The results were compared with the strength predictions based on EN1999-1-1 and the effective width method in AS/NZS 4600. The flange slenderness was found to play the most significant role in determining the normalized capacity. The sections are shown to exhibit an elastic-plastic stress distribution in the tensile flanges. The comparisons given in this study indicate that EN1999-1-1 underestimates the predicted bending strengths. The predictions based on the effective width method are shown to be more accurate than EN1999-1-1. An alternative design method is proposed for treating aluminum H-sections in minor axis bending. This method considers plastic stress distributions in the tensile flanges after the compressed flanges have locally buckled.
Testing and Numerical Simulation of the Shear Resistance of Blind-Bolted Aluminum Connections
Authors: Jiang Yuqi , Ma Huihuan , Zhang Zhiming , Cheng Peng
Published: July 2023

Due to their high bending stiffness, high torsional stiffness, and high local stability, rectangular section members of Al alloy space structures are frequently utilized as load-bearing elements. However, the joint construction is more complex because of the closed cross-section. To join rectangular section members without drilling holes in them, a variety of blind bolts that can be placed and fastened on one side have been devised. The blind bolts researched in this paper is known as BOM bolt. The shear resistance of BOM-bolted Al alloy connections is investigated using shear testing and finite element calculations of individual bolts and bolt groups. According to the test and numerical simulation results, the formulas for the compressive strength of the aluminum plate and the shear capacity reduction factor of BOM-bolted long connections are derived.
Experimental and Numerical Process Design for Press Partitioning of the New Q&P Steel 37SiB6
Authors: Illgen Christian , Winter Sven , Haase Rico , Böhme Marcus , Reiser Nadja , Hatscher Ansgar , Psyk Verena , Kräusel Verena , Wagner Martin F.-X.
Published: July 2023

Quenching and partitioning (Q&P) heat treatments of low-alloy steels with exceptional property combinations are particularly promising. In this study, we characterize for the first time a new low-alloy steel to be processed using Q&P heat treatments. In combined experimental and numerical studies, we design a novel approach that effectively combines the short cycle times of press hardening with the excellent property profiles of Q&P-treated steels. We identify an appropriate austenization temperature of 950 °C and a portioning temperature of 250 °C for Q&P heat treatments through dilatometric studies. We adjust a number of reference conditions with fractions of 2.1 to 6.3 wt.% of retained austenite, resulting in tensile strengths up to 1860 MPa and elongations to failure up to 7%. Initial numerical designs of the process can identify varying temperature profiles and cooling rates depending on the position in the die. The results show that the geometry of the part plays a minor role, but the die temperature of 200 °C is the dominant factor for successful partitioning directly in the press hardening process.
First Report of Campylobacter jejuni Strains Belonging to ST-21 Clonal Complex Isolated from Human, Poultry and Wild Birds in Croatia: Antimicrobial Resistance and Genetic Distance
Authors: Šoprek Silvija , Ujević Josip , Kompes Gordan , Jurinović Luka , Tambić Andrašević Arjana
Published: July 2023

In the era of growing antimicrobial resistance, a threat affecting humans, endangering animals, as well as livelihoods and food security worldwide, we wanted to find possible explanations for its continuous spread from a new perspective. The ubiquity of resistance genes requires a One Health approach to finding the explanations for continuous AMR spread. The natural transformability of Campylobacter jejuni, its high incidence of infections, and emerging resistance worldwide inspired us to choose C. jejuni ST-21CC to be our pathogen for analyzing its contribution and connection to the cycle of AMR dissemination. ST-21CC is known as a generalist among humans and broilers, the most prevalent lineage worldwide, but it is rarely found in wild birds. Emerging in wild birds, genetic relatedness and similar resistance profiles were expected. We analyzed 23 Croatian C. jejuni strains belonging specifically to ST-21CC from humans, broilers, and wild birds. The genomic data obtained through whole genome sequencing and phenotypic susceptibility data of strains were compared. Our findings suggest high fluoroquinolone resistance in ST-21CC strains, with more diverse genetic backgrounds in wild birds. Intriguing were three isolates of ST-822 (from human and storks), sharing a similar genetic fingerprint.
Primary Production in the Kara, Laptev, and East Siberian Seas
Authors: Kim Soohyun , Kim Kwanwoo , Jo Naeun , Jang Hyo-Keun , Ahn So-Hyun , Lee Janghan , Lee Howon , Park Sanghoon , Lee Dabin , Stockwell Dean , Whitledge Terry , Lee Sang-Heon
Published: July 2023

Understanding of the primary production of phytoplankton in the Kara Sea (KS), the Laptev Sea (LS), and the East Siberian Sea (ESS) remains limited, despite the recognized importance of phytoplankton in the Arctic Ocean. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted three NABOS (Nansen and Amundsen Basins Observational System) expeditions in 2013, 2015, and 2018 to measure in situ primary production rates using a 13C-15N dual-tracer method and examine their major controlling factors. The main goals in this study were to investigate regional heterogeneity in primary production and derive its contemporary ranges in the KS, LS, and ESS. The daily primary production rates in this study (99 ± 62, 100 ± 77, and 56 ± 35 mg C m−2 d−1 in the KS, LS, and ESS, respectively) are rather different from the values previously reported in each sea mainly because of spatial and regional differences. Among the three seas, a significantly lower primary production rate was observed in the ESS in comparison to those in the KS and LS. This is likely mainly because of regional differences in freshwater content based on the noticeable relationship (Spearman, rs = −0.714, p < 0.05) between the freshwater content and the primary production rates observed in this study. The contemporary ranges of the annual primary production based on this and previous studies are 0.96–2.64, 0.72–50.52, and 1.68–16.68 g C m−2 in the KS, LS, and ESS, respectively. Further intensive field measurements are warranted to enhance our understanding of marine microorganisms and their community-level responses to the currently changing environmental conditions in these poorly studied regions of the Arctic Ocean.
Peptidoglycan Endopeptidase from Novel Adaiavirus Bacteriophage Lyses Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strains as Well as Arthrobacter globiformis and A. pascens Bacteria
Authors: Petrzik Karel
Published: July 2023

A novel virus lytic for Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been purified. Its viral particles have a siphoviral morphology with a head 60 nm in diameter and a noncontractile tail 184 nm long. The dsDNA genome consists of 16,449 bp, has cohesive 3′ termini, and encodes 28 putative proteins in a single strain. The peptidoglycan endopeptidase encoded by ORF 16 was found to be the lytic enzyme of this virus. The recombinant, purified enzyme was active up to 55 °C in the pH range 6–9 against all tested isolates of P. aeruginosa, but, surprisingly, also against the distant Gram-positive micrococci Arthrobacter globiformis and A. pascens. Both this virus and its endolysin are further candidates for possible treatment against P. aeruginosa and probably also other bacteria.
Ramen Consumption and Gut Microbiota Diversity in Japanese Women: Cross-Sectional Data from the NEXIS Cohort Study
Authors: Park Jonguk , Bushita Hiroto , Nakano Ayatake , Hara Ai , Ueno Hiroshi M. , Ozato Naoki , Hosomi Koji , Kawashima Hitoshi , Chen Yi-An , Mohsen Attayeb , Ohno Harumi , Konishi Kana , Tanisawa Kumpei , Nanri Hinako , Murakami Haruka , Miyachi Motohiko , Kunisawa Jun , Mizuguchi Kenji , Araki Michihiro
Published: July 2023

A cross-sectional study involving 224 healthy Japanese adult females explored the relationship between ramen intake, gut microbiota diversity, and blood biochemistry. Using a stepwise regression model, ramen intake was inversely associated with gut microbiome alpha diversity after adjusting for related factors, including diets, Age, BMI, and stool habits (β = −0.018; r = −0.15 for Shannon index). The intake group of ramen was inversely associated with dietary nutrients and dietary fiber compared with the no-intake group of ramen. Sugar intake, Dorea as a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing gut microbiota, and γ-glutamyl transferase as a liver function marker were directly associated with ramen intake after adjustment for related factors including diets, gut microbiota, and blood chemistry using a stepwise logistic regression model, whereas Dorea is inconsistently less abundant in the ramen group. In conclusion, the increased ramen was associated with decreased gut bacterial diversity accompanying a perturbation of Dorea through the dietary nutrients, gut microbiota, and blood chemistry, while the methodological limitations existed in a cross-sectional study. People with frequent ramen eating habits need to take measures to consume various nutrients to maintain and improve their health, and dietary management can be applied to the dietary feature in ramen consumption.
New Synthetic Methodology for Drug-like Molecules
Authors: Barker Graeme , Rapposelli Simona
Published: July 2023

The field of synthetic methodology plays a pivotal role in the quest for safe and effective drugs [...]
DBDMH-Promoted Methylthiolation in DMSO: A Metal-Free Protocol to Methyl Sulfur Compounds with Multifunctional Groups
Authors: Zhou Yong-Jun , Fang Yong-Gan , Yang Kai , Lin Jian-Yun , Li Huan-Qing , Chen Zu-Jia , Wang Zhao-Yang
Published: July 2023

Organic thioethers play an important role in the discovery of drugs and natural products. However, the green synthesis of organic sulfide compounds remains a challenging task. The convenient and efficient synthesis of 5-alkoxy-3-halo-4-methylthio-2(5H)-furanones from DMSO is performed via the mediation of 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin (DBDMH), affording a facile route for the sulfur-functionalization of 3,4-dihalo-2(5H)-furanones under transition metal-free conditions. This new approach has demonstrated the functionalization of non-aromatic Csp2-X-type halides with unique structures containing C-X, C-O, C=O and C=C bonds. Compared with traditional synthesis methods using transition metal catalysts with ligands, this reaction has many advantages, such as the lower temperature, the shorter reaction time, the wide substrate range and good functional group tolerance. Notably, DMSO plays multiple roles, and is simultaneously used as an odorless methylthiolating reagent and safe solvent.
Phosphatidylcholine-Specific Phospholipase C as a Promising Drug Target
Authors: Eurtivong Chatchakorn , Leung Euphemia , Sharma Nabangshu , Leung Ivanhoe K. H. , Reynisson Jóhannes
Published: July 2023

Phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC) is an enzyme that catalyzes the formation of the important secondary messengers phosphocholine and diacylglycerol (DAG) from phosphatidylcholine. Although PC-PLC has been linked to the progression of many pathological conditions, including cancer, atherosclerosis, inflammation and neuronal cell death, studies of PC-PLC on the protein level have been somewhat neglected with relatively scarce data. To date, the human gene expressing PC-PLC has not yet been found, and the only protein structure of PC-PLC that has been solved was from Bacillus cereus (PC-PLCBc). Nonetheless, there is evidence for PC-PLC activity as a human functional equivalent of its prokaryotic counterpart. Additionally, inhibitors of PC-PLCBc have been developed as potential therapeutic agents. The most notable classes include 2-aminohydroxamic acids, xanthates, N,N′-hydroxyureas, phospholipid analogues, 1,4-oxazepines, pyrido[3,4-b]indoles, morpholinobenzoic acids and univalent ions. However, many medicinal chemistry studies lack evidence for their cellular and in vivo effects, which hampers the progression of the inhibitors towards the clinic. This review outlines the pathological implications of PC-PLC and highlights current progress and future challenges in the development of PC-PLC inhibitors from the literature.
Molecular Mechanism Pathways of Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Fang Xiaolei , Song Jiayu , Zhou Kaixuan , Zi Xue , Sun Bin , Bao Huiwei , Li Lijing
Published: July 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in the world, and its incidence continues to increase each year. Yet, there is still no definitive drug that can stop its development. This review focuses mainly on lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and intestinal flora dysbiosis to understand NAFLD’s pathogenesis. In this review, we used NCBI’s PubMed database for retrieval, integrating in vivo and in vitro experiments to reveal the therapeutic effects of natural compounds on NAFLD. We also reviewed the mechanisms by which the results of these experiments suggest that these compounds can protect the liver from damage by modulating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, decreasing insulin resistance and lipid accumulation in the liver, and interacting with the intestinal microflora. The natural compounds discussed in these papers target a variety of pathways, such as the AMPK pathway and the TGF-β pathway, and have significant therapeutic effects. This review aims to provide new possible therapeutic lead compounds and references for the development of novel medications and the clinical treatment of NAFLD. It offers fresh perspectives on the development of natural compounds in preventing and treating NAFLD.
Correction: Verkhovskii et al. The Influence of Magnetic Composite Capsule Structure and Size on Their Trapping Efficiency in the Flow. Molecules 2022, 27, 6073
Authors: Verkhovskii Roman , Ermakov Alexey , Grishin Oleg , Makarkin Mikhail A. , Kozhevnikov Ilya , Makhortov Mikhail , Kozlova Anastasiia , Salem Samia , Tuchin Valery , Bratashov Daniil
Published: July 2023

In the original publication [...]
Tunable Non-Enzymatic Glucose Electrochemical Sensing Based on the Ni/Co Bimetallic MOFs
Authors: Wang Qi , Jia Qi , Hu Peng , Ji Liudi
Published: July 2023

Constructing high-performance glucose sensors is of great significance for the prevention and diagnosis of diabetes, and the key is to develop new sensitive materials. In this paper, a series of Ni2Co1-L MOFs (L = H2BPDC: 4,4′-biphenyldicarboxylic acid; H2NDC: 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid; H2BDC: 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid) were synthesized by a room temperature stirring method. The effects of metal centers and ligands on the structure, compositions, electrochemical properties of the obtained Ni2Co1-L MOFs were characterized, indicating the successful preparation of layered MOFs with different sizes, stacking degrees, electrochemical active areas, numbers of exposed active sites, and glucose catalytic activity. Among them, Ni2Co1-BDC exhibits a relatively thin and homogeneous plate-like morphology, and the Ni2Co1-BDC modified glassy carbon electrode (Ni2Co1-BDC/GCE) has the highest electrochemical performance. Furthermore, the mechanism of the enhanced glucose oxidation signal was investigated. It was shown that glucose has a higher electron transfer capacity and a larger apparent catalytic rate constant on the Ni2Co1-BDC/GCE surface. Therefore, tunable non-enzymatic glucose electrochemical sensing was carried out by regulating the metal centers and ligands. As a result, a high-sensitivity enzyme-free glucose sensing platform was successfully constructed based on the Ni2Co1-BDC/GCE, which has a wide linear range of 0.5–2899.5 μM, a low detection limit of 0.29 μM (S/N = 3), and a high sensitivity of 3925.3 μA mM−1 cm−2. Much more importantly, it was also successfully applied to the determination of glucose in human serum with satisfactory results, demonstrating its potential for glucose detection in real samples.
Geriatric Oncology in the Instagram Era: Feasibility and Acceptability Randomised Controlled Trial on Adopting PhotoVoice to Enable Empowerment, Patient-Centred Care, and Shared Decision Making—Study Protocol
Authors: Steer Christopher , Rasekaba Tshepo , Owen Kylie , Jayasuriya Darren , Kapur Mira , Young Kim , Webb Nicole , Blackberry Irene
Published: July 2023

Geriatric assessment (GA) is fundamental to optimising cancer care in older adults, yet implementing comprehensive GA tools in real-world clinical settings remains a challenge. This study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of integrating information from patient-derived photographs (PhotoVoice) into enhanced supportive care (ESC) for older adults with cancer. A feasibility randomised controlled trial will be conducted at a regional cancer care centre in Australia. Participants aged 70 and above will be randomised into two groups: PhotoVoice plus ESC or usual care (ESC) alone. In the PhotoVoice group, participants will provide four photographs for deduction of representations of different aspects of their lives using photo-elicitation techniques. ESC will be conducted for both groups, incorporating PhotoVoice analysis in the intervention group. PhotoVoice may improve patient-centred care outcomes, including enhanced communication, shared decision making, and identification of patient priorities and barriers. Findings will provide insights into implementing PhotoVoice in geriatric assessment and guide future trials in cancer among older adults.
Polyacrylonitrile Passivation for Enhancing the Optoelectronic Switching Performance of Halide Perovskite Memristor for Image Boolean Logic Applications
Authors: Zhang Xiaohan , Zhao Xiaoning , Wang Zhongqiang
Published: July 2023

For the CH3NH3PbI3-based optoelectronic memristor, the high ion-migration randomness induces high fluctuation in the resistive switching (RS) parameters. Grain boundaries (GBs) are well known as the ion-migration sites due to their low energy barrier. Herein, a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) passivation method is developed to reduce GBs of the CH3NH3PbI3 film and improve the switching uniformity of the memristor. The crystal grain size of CH3NH3PbI3 increases with the addition of PAN, and the corresponding number of GBs is consequently reduced. The fluctuations of the RS parameters of the memristor device are significantly reduced. With the memristor, nonvolatile image sensing, image memory, and image Boolean operations are demonstrated. This work proposes a strategy for developing high-performance CH3NH3PbI3 optoelectronic memristors.
Beyond the Visible: A Review of Ultraviolet Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrate Compositions, Morphologies, and Performance
Authors: Giordano Andrea N. , Rao Rahul
Published: July 2023

The first observation of ultraviolet surface-enhanced Raman scattering (UV-SERS) was 20 years ago, yet the field has seen a slower development pace than its visible and near-infrared counterparts. UV excitation for SERS offers many potential advantages. These advantages include increased scattering intensity, higher spatial resolution, resonance Raman enhancement from organic, biological, and semiconductor analytes, probing UV photoluminescence, and mitigating visible photoluminescence from analytes or substrates. One of the main challenges is the lack of readily accessible, effective, and reproducible UV-SERS substrates, with few commercial sources available. In this review, we evaluate the reported UV-SERS substrates in terms of their elemental composition, substrate morphology, and performance. We assess the best-performing substrates with regard to their enhancement factors and limits of detection in both the ultraviolet and deep ultraviolet regions. Even though aluminum nanostructures were the most reported and best-performing substrates, we also highlighted some unique UV-SERS composition and morphology substrate combinations. We address the challenges and potential opportunities in the field of UV-SERS, especially in relation to the development of commercially available, cost-effective substrates. Lastly, we discuss potential application areas for UV-SERS, including cost-effective detection of environmentally and militarily relevant analytes, in situ and operando experimentation, defect engineering, development of materials for extreme environments, and biosensing.
Osteoimmune Properties of Mesoporous Bioactive Nanospheres: A Study on T Helper Lymphocytes
Authors: Casarrubios Laura , Cicuéndez Mónica , Vallet-Regí María , Portolés María Teresa , Arcos Daniel , Feito María José
Published: July 2023

Bioactive mesoporous glass nanospheres (nanoMBGs) charged with antiosteoporotic drugs have great potential for the treatment of osteoporosis and fracture prevention. In this scenario, cells of the immune system are essential both in the development of disease and in their potential to stimulate therapeutic effects. In the present work, we hypothesize that nanoMBGs loaded with ipriflavone can exert a positive osteoimmune effect. With this objective, we assessed the effects of non-loaded and ipriflavone-loaded nanoparticles (nanoMBGs and nanoMBG-IPs, respectively) on CD4+ Th2 lymphocytes because this kind of cell is implicated in the inhibition of osseous loss by reducing the RANKL/OPG relationship through the secretion of cytokines. The results indicate that nanoMBGs enter efficiently in CD4+ Th2 lymphocytes, mainly through phagocytosis and clathrin-dependent mechanisms, without affecting the function of these T cells or inducing inflammatory mediators or oxidative stress, thus maintaining the reparative Th2 phenotype. Furthermore, the incorporation of the anti-osteoporotic drug ipriflavone reduces the potential unwanted inflammatory response by decreasing the presence of ROS and stimulating intracellular anti-inflammatory cytokine release like IL-4. These results evidenced that nanoMBG loaded with ipriflavone exerts a positive osteoimmune effect.
Distributed Strain Measurements Based on Rayleigh Scattering in the Presence of Fiber Bragg Gratings in an Optical Fiber
Authors: Matveenko Valerii , Serovaev Grigorii
Published: July 2023

This paper addresses the challenge of strain measurement using distributed fiber-optic sensors based on Rayleigh scattering in the presence of fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) with a reflectivity level of 70% within the optical fiber. The reflectivity of such FBGs complicates distributed strain measurements that rely on the cross-correlation algorithm. The cases where the scanning ranges of a backscatter reflectometer include the resonant wavelengths of the FBGs and those beyond their limits, resulting in either a complete absence of a useful signal or the emergence of insensitive zones near the FBGs, are considered. An approach is proposed that employs a windowed Fourier transform with Hann window function for signal processing. This method effectively eliminates insensitive zones in distributed strain measurements based on Rayleigh scattering.
Study of Fe:ZnSe Laser Exited by Diode Side-Pumped Er:YAG Laser
Authors: Kozlovsky Vladimir , Butaev Marat , Korostelin Yury , Leonov Stanislav , Skasyrsky Yan , Frolov Mikhail
Published: July 2023

The performance of a Fe:ZnSe laser was investigated in different schemes of excitation by a pulsed diode side-pumped Er:YAG laser. At the temperature of liquid nitrogen, the Fe:ZnSe laser, pumped by a free running 360-μs Er:YAG laser and demonstrated a pulse energy of 53 mJ with a slope efficiency of 42% relative to absorbed pump energy. When operating at room temperature, two optical schemes were considered. In the first one, the Fe:ZnSe laser crystal was pumped by a Q-switched Er:YAG laser with a passive shutter based on an additional Fe:ZnSe crystalline plate, and the cavities of both lasers were independent. In the second scheme, the cavities of the Fe:ZnSe and Er:YAG lasers were coupled, and the Fe:ZnSe crystal simultaneously served as an active element of the Fe:ZnSe laser and a passive shutter of the Er:YAG laser. Pulses with a duration of less than 200 ns and an energy of ~1 mJ were obtained from the Fe:ZnSe laser with a repetition rate of up to 50 kHz. The experimental waveforms of the laser pulses were approximated by rate equations.
Cloning and Expression of Class I Chitinase Genes from Four Mangrove Species under Heavy Metal Stress
Authors: Zhou Yue-Yue , Wang You-Shao , Sun Cui-Ci , Fei Jiao
Published: July 2023

Chitinases are believed to act as defense proteins when plants are exposed to heavy metal stress. Typical Class I chitinase genes were cloned from Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Rhizophora stylosa, Kandelia obovata, and Avicennia marina using the methods of reverse-transcription–polymerase chain reaction and rapid amplification of cDNA ends. All four cDNA sequences of chitinase from the mangrove plants were 1092 bp in length and consisted of an open reading frame of 831 bp, encoding 276 amino acids. However, there were differences in the sequences among the four mangrove species. Four gene proteins have a signal peptide, are located in the vacuole, and belong to the GH19 chitinase family. The sequence of chitinase was highly similar to the protein sequences of Camellia fraternal chitinases. A real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze the chitinase expressions of the above four mangrove species exposed to different concentrations of heavy metal at different times. The gene expression of chitinase was higher in Bruguiera gymnorrhiza leaves than in other mangrove plant species. With an increase in heavy metal stress, the expression level of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza increased continuously. These results suggest that chitinase plays an important role in improving the heavy metal tolerance of mangrove plants.
Electric Vehicle Charging Load Prediction Model Considering Traffic Conditions and Temperature
Authors: Feng Jiangpeng , Chang Xiqiang , Fan Yanfang , Luo Weixiang
Published: July 2023

The paper presents a novel charging load prediction model for electric vehicles that takes into account traffic conditions and ambient temperature, which are often overlooked in conventional EV load prediction models. Additionally, the paper investigates the impact of disordered charging on distribution networks. Firstly, the paper creates a traffic road network topology and speed-flow model to accurately simulate the driving status of EVs on real road networks. Next, we calculate the electric vehicle power consumption per unit kilometer by considering the effects of temperature and vehicle speed on electricity consumption. Then, we combine the vehicle’s main parameters to create a single electric vehicle charging model, use the Monte Carlo method to simulate electric vehicle travel behavior and charging, and obtain the spatial and temporal distribution of total charging load. Finally, the actual traffic road network and typical distribution network in northern China are used to analyze charging load forecast estimates for each typical functional area under real vehicle–road circumstances. The results show that the charging load demand in different areas has obvious spatial and temporal distribution characteristics and differences, and traffic conditions and temperature factors have a significant impact on electric vehicle charging load.
Evaluation of Rotational Stability and Stress Shielding of a Stem Optimized for Hip Replacements—A Finite Element Study
Authors: Ceddia Mario , Trentadue Bartolomeo
Published: July 2023

The natural distribution of stress in the femur is altered when total hip arthroplasty (THA) is performed. In fact, when a stem is inserted inside the femur, there is a variation in stress due to the difference in rigidity between the material with which the stem is made and the femur. This generates the phenomenon of stress shielding. The aim of this study is to design an optimized prosthesis that guarantees an excellent rotational stability and a reduced stress shielding. Methods: Through the finite element method (FEM), the mechanical behavior of the stem subjected to the loads described by ISO 7206-4:2010 is studied. Results: Through topological optimization, there is a reduction in stress shielding in the proximal zone of 31.46%. The addition of ridges on the dorsal side of the stem also improves rotational stability by 27.82%. Conclusions: The decrease in stiffness that is recorded with the optimized stem guarantees a greater distribution of stress on the bone. The presence of dorsal ridges also favors the corticalization of the bone as it loads the bone near the dorsal, ensuring further stability. The perforated prosthesis presented in this study shows an increase in primary stability and an improvement in rotational stability as there is also a bone regrowth inside the prosthesis.
Excavating Trajectory Planning of a Mining Rope Shovel Based on Material Surface Perception
Authors: Feng Yinnan , Wu Juan , Lin Baoguo , Guo Chenhao
Published: July 2023

The mining rope shovel (MRS) is one of the core pieces of equipment for open-pit mining, and is currently moving towards intelligent and unmanned transformation, replacing traditional manual operations with intelligent mining. Aiming at the demand for online planning of an intelligent shovel excavation trajectory, an MRS excavating trajectory planning method based on material surface perception is proposed here. First, point cloud data of the material stacking surface are obtained through laser radar to perceive the excavation environment and these point cloud data are horizontally calibrated and filtered to reconstruct the surface morphology of the material surface to provide a material surface model for calculation of the mining volume in the subsequent trajectory planning. Second, kinematics and dynamics analysis of the MRS excavation device are carried out using the Product of Exponentials (PoE) and Lagrange equation, providing a theoretical basis for calculating the excavation energy consumption in trajectory planning. Then, the trajectory model of the bucket tooth tip is established by the method of sixth-order polynomial interpolation. The unit mass excavation energy consumption and unit mass excavation time are taken as the objective function, and the motor performance and the geometric size of the MRS are taken as constraints. The grey wolf optimizer is used for iterative optimization to realize efficient and energy-saving excavation trajectory planning of the MRS. Finally, trajectory planning is carried out for material surfaces with four different shapes (typical, convex, concave, and convex–concave). The results of experimental validation show that the actual hoist and crowd forces are essentially consistent with the planned hoist and crowd forces in terms of the peak value and trend variations, verifying the accuracy of the calculation model and confirming that the full bucket rate and various parameters meet the constraints. Therefore, the trajectory planning method based on material surface perception are feasible for application to different excavation conditions.
Liquid Content Detection In Transparent Containers: A Benchmark
Authors: Wu You , Ye Hengzhou , Yang Yaqing , Wang Zhaodong , Li Shuiwang
Published: July 2023

Various substances that possess liquid states include drinking water, various types of fuel, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals, which are indispensable in our daily lives. There are numerous real-world applications for liquid content detection in transparent containers, for example, service robots, pouring robots, security checks, industrial observation systems, etc. However, the majority of the existing methods either concentrate on transparent container detection or liquid height estimation; the former provides very limited information for more advanced computer vision tasks, whereas the latter is too demanding to generalize to open-world applications. In this paper, we propose a dataset for detecting liquid content in transparent containers (LCDTC), which presents an innovative task involving transparent container detection and liquid content estimation. The primary objective of this task is to obtain more information beyond the location of the container by additionally providing certain liquid content information which is easy to achieve with computer vision methods in various open-world applications. This task has potential applications in service robots, waste classification, security checks, and so on. The presented LCDTC dataset comprises 5916 images that have been extensively annotated through axis-aligned bounding boxes. We develop two baseline detectors, termed LCD-YOLOF and LCD-YOLOX, for the proposed dataset, based on two identity-preserved human posture detectors, i.e., IPH-YOLOF and IPH-YOLOX. By releasing LCDTC, we intend to stimulate more future works into the detection of liquid content in transparent containers and bring more focus to this challenging task.
Optimum Control for Path Tracking Problem of Vehicle Handling Inverse Dynamics
Authors: Liu Yingjie , Cui Dawei , Peng Wen
Published: July 2023

Accurate tracking of a given path is one of the primary factors in the maneuverability of a vehicle and is also an important topic in autonomous vehicle research. To solve the problem of vehicle path tracking, the problem must first be transformed into an optimal control problem. Then, a symplectic pseudospectral method (SPM) based on the third-generation function of symplectic theory and pseudospectral discretization is proposed to efficiently solve the nonlinear optimal control problems. Finally, the results obtained by the proposed algorithm are compared with those obtained by the Gauss pseudospectral method (GPM). The simulation results show that the proposed method can effectively solve the vehicle path tracking problem. Furthermore, the vehicle can track the given path controlled by the proposed algorithm with higher accuracy and greater applicability than other methods.
The Prevention of Industrial Manual Tool Accidents Considering Occupational Health and Safety
Authors: Arciniega-Rocha Ricardo P. , Erazo-Chamorro Vanessa C. , Szabo Gyula
Published: July 2023

The industrial sector is improving its management systems and designing healthy workspaces by focusing on selecting the best ways to reduce accidents and optimize financial and human resources. Hand tools represent the general equipment used in a significant range of industrial jobs. This research aims to develop a tool selection method to help users, managers, and tool designers ensure awareness and care regarding ergonomics based on the anthropometrics of employees, considering the main risk factors for tool selection. The information, which relates to hand security risk factors and the established parameters set by official international institutions, is evaluated during the study. This paper also presents a safety risk assessment framework based on criteria collected through a survey from 10 experts to rate the initial risk value and determine its importance using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). As a result, the analysis identified the possibility of injury (with 73.06% accuracy) as the biggest concern for companies due to its immediate effects on workers’ health. It provides a decision regimen—a tool for decision-makers to design and plan prevention activities to reduce accidents, injuries, and possible illnesses. It further lays out a methodical and analytical model to be used by managers to ensure correct hand tool selection. This model can be used to reduce the possibility of illnesses or injuries for workers and tailor the ergonomic design of each workstation according to specific hand anthropometric data for the worker.
Research on Renewal Design of College Campus Based on Flood Bearing Resilience
Authors: Li Shengfang , Zhu Yi , Yang Jian , Gong Bin
Published: July 2023

In view of the flooding problems faced by colleges and universities, we first reviewed current research on flood bearing resilience in order to clarify the ideas put forth by previous studies regarding the improvement of flood bearing resilience. Then, using the China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, as an example, a framework for promoting the cooperation of various ecosystems on the college campuses to cope with flooding was established. This framework makes it possible to effectively enhance the flood bearing resilience of the college campus and promote ecological, sustainable development therein. It includes a design strategy for renewal and renovation of college campuses that can improve their resilience to flooding. In partnership with natural systems, semi-artificial and artificial ecosystems on the college campus will be redesigned to cope with rainfall and flooding. In order to increase flood bearing resilience, the proposed strategy involves systematically renovating the site, using the China University of Geosciences, Wuhan (hereinafter referred to as the CUG, Wuhan) and its surrounding area as the experimental object. This strategy of renewal has already been proven effective in and around the koi pond at CUG, Wuhan.
Hybrid Machine Learning and Modified Teaching Learning-Based English Optimization Algorithm for Smart City Communication
Authors: Liu Xing , Zhang Xiaojing , Baziar Aliasghar
Published: July 2023

This paper introduces a hybrid algorithm that combines machine learning and modified teaching learning-based optimization (TLBO) for enhancing smart city communication and energy management. The primary objective is to optimize the modified systems, which face challenges due to their high population density. The proposed algorithm integrates the strengths of machine learning techniques, more specifically, the long short-term memory (LSTM) technique, with teaching learning-based optimization algorithms. To achieve optimization, the algorithm learns from historical data on energy consumption and communication patterns specific to the modeled system. By leveraging these insights, it can predict future energy consumption and communication patterns accurately. Additionally, the algorithm incorporates a modified teaching learning-based optimization approach inspired by the teaching and learning process in classrooms. It adjusts the system parameters based on feedback received from the system, thereby optimizing both energy consumption and communication systems. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is evaluated through a case study conducted on the test system, where historical data on energy consumption and communication patterns are analyzed. The results demonstrate that the algorithm efficiently optimizes the communication and energy management systems, leading to substantial energy savings and improved communication efficiency within the test system. In conclusion, this study presents a hybrid machine learning and modified teaching learning-based optimization algorithm that effectively addresses the communication and energy management challenges in the test system. Moreover, this algorithm holds the potential for application in various smart city domains beyond the test system. The findings of this research contribute to the advancement of smart city technologies and offer valuable insights into reducing energy consumption in densely populated urban areas.
A Spectral Method Approach to Quadratic Normal Volatility Diffusions
Authors: Kink Peter
Published: July 2023

This paper is concerned with the quadratic volatility family of driftless stochastic differential equations (SDEs), also known in the literature as Quadratic Normal Volatility models (QNV), which have found applications primarily in mathematical finance, but can also model dynamics of stochastic processes in other fields such as mathematical biology and physics. These SDE models are characterized by a quadratic volatility term and can be reduced to one of four distinct possibilities depending on the roots of the quadratic volatility term and the position of initial value. We find explicit weak solutions for each case by a combination of Itô calculus and Fourier analysis, which can be described as a ’spectral method’. Furthermore, for all cases we also express the weak solutions as fairly simple functions of Brownian motion, which allows for efficient one-step Monte Carlo evaluation of functionals of the solutions Xt of the form E(f(Xt)) and also more general functionals of the solution. The method used to compute the solutions may also be of interest itself more generally in other fields where SDEs play a fundamental role.
Spatial Differentiation Characteristics and Evaluation of Cu and Cd in Paddy Soil around a Copper Smelter
Authors: Ding Yuan , Xi Li , Wu Yujing , Chen Yihong , Guo Xiaoping , Shi Hong , Cai Shuo
Published: July 2023

To accurately evaluate the distribution and bioavailability of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as Cu and Cd in farmlands near a copper smelter, we determined the total concentrations (Cu-T and Cd-T), various speciation concentrations of Cu and Cd and physicochemical properties of 18 paddy soil (or colloid) samples in Guixi town, Jiangxi province, China. The results showed that the concentrations of Cu-T and Cd-T in the soil around the smelter far exceeded the standard limits. Specifically, Cu ranged from 97.47 to 1294.63 mg·kg−1, with a coefficient of variation (CV) of 0.95; Cd ranged from 0.14 to 9.06 mg·kg−1, and the CV was 1.68. Furthermore, the pollution of PTEs continued to accumulate, posing a significant risk to the environment and human health. The findings from the analysis of soil and colloid indicated that the distribution characteristics of Cu and Cd speciations did not align with the total concentrations. The highest pollution points were found to be shifted to the residual fraction of Cu, organic fraction, and crystalline iron oxide fraction of Cd in soil. The dominant fraction of Cu in colloid was the amorphous iron oxide fraction, whereas Cd was the crystalline iron oxide fraction. The assessment of Cu and Cd migration (MR) revealed that Cd posed a greater ecological risk. Further examination of the properties of iron oxides in soil and colloid revealed that they played a crucial role in the migration and transformation of soil PTEs.
The Andromeda Galaxy and Its Star Formation History
Authors: Leahy Denis
Published: July 2023

The state of knowledge of the properties of the Andromeda Galaxy (also known as M31) is reviewed. The spatial structure of the Andromeda Galaxy, its main source populations, and the properties of its gas and dust are discussed. To understand the formation history of the Andromeda Galaxy, the critical issues of its star formation history and the gas streams and dwarf galaxies in its surrounding environment are reviewed. Emphasis is on recent studies, with important earlier work described in the references provided here. It is important to understand the Andromeda Galaxy because it is the nearest large external galaxy and is close enough for high-resolution studies. This allows the Andromeda Galaxy to be used as a template for understanding more distant and less resolved galaxies in the universe.
State of external respiratory function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease associated with nicotine dependence
Authors:   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Lotkov V. S. , Dzyubaylo A. V. ,   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Dudintseva N. V. ,   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Babanov S. A. ,   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: July 2023

A study of 151 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was conducted in order to assess the formation and effectiveness of the treatment of nicotine dependence in smokers with COPD. Ipratropium bromide was proposed as a therapy. Nicorette was used as a nicotine replacement therapy. As a result of the study, the proposed algorithm for the combined treatment of nicotine addiction and COPD was adapted for use in the treatment of various degrees of nicotine dependence and COPD severity in smokers in an outpatient setting.