bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Climate-Shaped Urbanization and Forest Ecological Function: A Case Study of the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Gu Xiaobing , Wang Guangyu , Zhang Shunli , Feng Linyan , Sharma Ram P. , Zhou Huoyan , Fu Liyong , Wu Qingjun , Dou Yaquan , Zhao Xiaodi
Published: November 2023

Amidst the compounded challenges posed by global climate change and urbanization on forest ecosystems, the integration of urbanization control measures within a climate-focused framework may offer an avenue for breakthroughs. This study delves into the impact of climate, specifically hydrothermal conditions, on the complex interplay between urbanization (Urb) and forest ecological function (Eco) in the Yellow River Basin (YRB) in China. Our findings reveal: (1) The application of a coupled coordination model reveals a stronger alignment between urbanization and forest ecological function in the warm and humid regions in the YRB. (2) Through the cross-sectional threshold regression model, we elucidate the diverse responses of Urb to Eco across varying climate gradients. Among them, annual precipitation shows a double-threshold effect at 532.34 mm and 694.18 mm. As precipitation increases, the impact of Urb shifts from negative to positive on Eco. Moreover, in regions with precipitation below 532.34 mm and above 694.18 mm, the absolute value of response coefficients of Eco to Urb is amplified. Annual average temperature displays a single-threshold effect at 10.11 °C, leading to a transition from negative to positive impact as temperature rises. This study establishes the climate-based threshold system that governs the urbanization–forest ecological function relationship.
Analysis of Farmers’ Perceptions of Climate Changes and Adaptation Strategies in the Transboundary Gandaki River Basin
Authors: Rai Raju , Zhang Yili , Paudel Basanta , Yan Jianzhong , Khanal Narendra Raj
Published: November 2023

Global climate change poses many adverse impacts and risks, which affect the livelihoods of local farmers. This study has assessed farmers’ perceptions of climate changes and adaptation strategies in the transboundary Gandaki River Basin (GRB). A total of 639 households were surveyed purposively from different physiographic regions, ranging from the lowland plain to the high Mountain region of the GRB. These surveyed perceptions were analyzed using a binary logistic regression (BLR) model. The results show that the significant variables determining the climate change perceptions are family size (p = 0.004), total number of livestock owned by the household (p = 0.000), availability of irrigation facility (p = 0.000), temperature change (p = 0.007), precipitation change (p = 0.000), and household head’s age (p = 0.044), education level (p = 0.000), and profession (p = 0.003). The results were also analyzed by physiographic region. Farmers in the Mountain region perceived the household head’s education (p = 0.008) and profession (p = 0.009), precipitation change (p = 0.028), climate-induced disease/pests (p = 0.042), and impact on vegetation (p = 0.044) as significant variables. Significant variables in the Hill region were found to include the household head’s education (p = 0.029) and profession (p = 0.043), lack of irrigation facility (p = 0.029), precipitation change (p = 0.018), increased drought (p = 0.018), and decreased agricultural production (p = 0.025). Similarly, farmers in the Tarai region noticed the lack of irrigation facility (p = 0.011), temperature change (p = 0.042), precipitation change (p = 0.017), impact on stable crops (p = 0.043), and decreased agricultural production as important variables. Likewise, in the Gangetic Plain (GP) region, the household head’s education (p = 0.010), total number of livestock (p = 0.037), lack of irrigation facility (p = 0.006), precipitation change (p = 0.003), increased drought (p = 0.002), and decreased agricultural production (p = 0.001) were found to be significant variables. The determinant factors vary between the different regions due to the geography and overall socio-economic factors of the respondent. Combining the scientific data with the farmers’ perceptions may help to clarify how climate change affects the farmers’ perceptions and adaptation strategies to better enhance their livelihood.
Has the Reform of Land Reserve Financing Policy Reduced the Local Governments’ Implicit Debt?
Authors: Wang Zhifeng , Ge Xuening , He Yunxia , Li Shuting
Published: November 2023

Confronted with the expansion of local governments’ implicit debt and the associated risks induced by the practice of “land-based financing”, substantial alterations occurred in China’s land reserve financing policy during 2016–2017. These modifications led to an entire cessation of land reserve loans and the initiation of specialized bonds designated solely for land reserves. Empirical evidence, gathered through the approximate application of the difference-in-differences method, reveals that the reform of the land reserve financing policy can markedly reduce local governments’ implicit debt level. Based upon this foundation, the results of the triple-difference regression demonstrate that the diminution effect of the land reserve financing policy reform on local governments’ implicit debt is more pronounced in regions characterized by lower levels of marketization and more substantial legal financing constraints. This research enriches the comprehensive understanding of the impact of land reserve financing policy reform, possessing considerable referential value for the prevention and resolution of local governments’ implicit debt.
Survey of Residents of Historic Cities Willingness to Pay for a Cultural Heritage Conservation Project: The Contribution of Heritage Awareness
Authors: Li Hongyu , Chen Jie , Ikebe Konomi , Kinoshita Takeshi
Published: November 2023

The adaptive reuse of cultural heritage (ARCH) is an innovative, sustainable approach to architectural heritage conservation; however, current research on the subject lacks public awareness surveys from the bottom-up, and the non-use value of ARCH buildings has not been clarified. We investigated the willingness to pay for ARCH among 1460 residents of the Nara Prefecture using a contingent valuation method and clarified the factors affecting the willingness to pay through an ordered logistic regression model. The results of this study showed that 75.1% of the respondents were willing to pay for ARCH projects, which were valued at JPY 6036.13 (USD 41.15) per person per year excluding zero payments and JPY 4531.23 (USD 30.89), including zero payments. In addition, residents’ attitudes toward ARCH and heritage awareness positively influenced both the willingness to pay and its magnitude, while the degree of place attachment was a positive predictor of willingness to pay. This study demonstrates the role of public participation in cultural heritage conservation, emphasizes the importance of heritage awareness, and provides a reference point for policy makers in promoting public participation in ARCH buildings, which contributes to the implementation of a recycling approach to heritage conservation in a sustainable context.
Evaluation and Prediction of Ecological Restoration Effect of Beijing Wangping Coal Mine Based on Modified Remote Sensing Ecological Index
Authors: Zhong Anya , Hu Chunming , You Li
Published: November 2023

As the construction of ecological civilization has become more and more important in recent years, ecological restoration and its effect assessment have also received increasing attention. Taking the Wangping coal mine in Beijing as an example, based on Landsat TM/OLI series remote sensing data, we chose five metrics, i.e., fraction vegetation coverage, humidity, heat, dryness, and black particulates, to construct the model for the modified remote sensing ecological index (MRSEI). It was also combined with the Hurst index to conduct dynamic monitoring, spatiotemporal analysis, and prediction studies of the ecological environment quality in the study area. The results showed that: (1) Compared with the RSEI, the first principal component of the MRSEI better integrates the information of each component indicator, has a better average correlation with each indicator, and better reflects the habitat condition in the study area. (2) The mean value of the MRSEI in the study area increased from 0.433 in 1990 to 0.722 in 2021, an increase of 40.03%. (3) From 1990 to 2001, the poor and fair MRSEI-grade areas in the study area were concentrated in the northeastern and southwestern parts of the area. After the ecological restoration project was carried out, the environmental quality of the Wangping coal mine improved year by year, and a small number of poor areas were concentrated in the northeastern border area. (4) The MRSEI of the Wangping coal mine predicted that the future ecological environment of the study area would show a general trend of continuous improvement, but a certain percentage of the area in the northeast had a weak antisustainability trend. The results of the study could provide a reference for ecological restoration planning, sustainable development, and the management of mining areas.
Landscape Architecture Professional Knowledge Abstraction: Accessing, Applying and Disseminating
Authors: Qiu Yue , Cong Zheng , Opiniano Karla Nicole , Qiao Xuesong , Chen Zheng
Published: November 2023

Rigorous abstract knowledge, such as academic knowledge, is vital to a profession’s resilience against other modern professional competition. In the field of landscape architecture, a growing number of concerns about a lack of rigorous knowledge have been observed, which may jeopardise the jurisdiction of its professional practice. A study was conducted that collected behaviours and attitudes from various members of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) regarding how they accessed, disseminated, and applied knowledge in practice. Their responses concerning the knowledge were analysed by dividing and ranking the options according to the degree of knowledge abstraction. Knowledge abstraction refers to theories and commonplace best practices that are established within a profession through shared knowledge, experience, and research. The results showed that (1) most practitioners tended to access new knowledge through tacit experience, which is indicative of a lower level of abstraction in their practice; (2) design decisions were based less on higher and rigorously abstracted knowledge such as research findings and, in circumstances where it was deployed in the design process, such knowledge was seldom used to guide design independently; (3) the majority of practitioners rarely share knowledge through high-abstracted publications; and (4) compared with accessing relatively diverse levels of knowledge abstraction, practitioners were less resourceful in knowledge application and even less in dissemination. The knowledge acquired, used and circulated in the workplace of landscape architects—as indicated by this survey—is still not comprehensively abstracted to a rigorous level, which may provide an insight into the concerns of practitioners regarding this profession’s breadth of knowledge and jurisdiction.
An Analysis of Post-Apartheid Anti-Fronting Interventions Fostering Mainstreaming of the Black South Africans into Corporate Sector
Authors: Mathebula Treasure Hlayisani , Odeku Kolawole Olusola
Published: November 2023

While the colonial and apartheid regimes utilised draconian, arbitrary, segregated, discriminatory, and exclusive anti-black social-socioeconomic policies and laws to deny the majority of black South Africans access to and participation in various economic activities, post 1994 democratic South Africa has strategically introduced progressive policies and laws to ensure that black South Africans play active productive roles in socio-economic activities in all sectors. While this is commendable, various corporations and businesses owned by white companies are supposed to ensure that black people become part and parcel of the businesses, and companies are being denied active participation, using fronting purposefully to circumvent the requirements of the anti-fronting laws. Against this backdrop, this paper seeks to analyse the post-apartheid anti-fronting interventions that foster the mainstreaming of black South Africans into the corporate sector. The paper uses a literature review methodology to find and analyse primary and secondary sources of data relating to equality, BEE, and fronting. This paper presents the historical exclusion of blacks through the instrumentality of colonial and apartheid apparatuses and laws brutally utilised to exclude blacks from economic activities. Post 1994 democratic transformative interventions—laws—have been enacted to redress the segregated and exclusive laws; however, fronting activities and practices continue to undermine and circumvent successful implementation. This said, the post 1994 government continues to tackle impunity through the exploration of civil and criminal responsibilities and accountability of perpetrators and use the rule of law-judicial means to hold perpetrators accountable. This paper found that fronting is a persisting issue in South Africa despite anti-fronting legislative measures developed over the past years when the B-BBEE Act was amended. This paper advises more on pro-active anti-fronting measures to pro-actively foster the mainstreaming of black South Africans into the corporate sector.
Influence of the DASH Diet on Gestational Weight Gain and Perinatal Outcomes in Women with Pre-Existing Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Belfort Gabriella P. , Farias Dayana R. , Padilha Patricia de C. , da Silva Letícia B. G. , dos Santos Karina , dos Santos Mayara S. , Zajdenverg Lenita , Keating Elisa , Saunders Claudia
Published: November 2023

Background: This study aimed to investigate the influence of the dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet on gestational weight gain and perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with pre-existing diabetes mellitus (PDM). Methods: A randomized, single-blind, controlled clinical trial was conducted with 68 pregnant women with PDM throughout prenatal care until delivery (18 weeks) at a public maternity hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (2016–2020). The standard diet adopted by the control group (standard diet group—SDG) contained 45–55% carbohydrates, 15–20% protein, and 25–30% lipids of the total energy intake. An adapted DASH diet, with a similar macronutrient composition, but with higher calcium, potassium, magnesium, fiber, and reduced saturated fat, was prescribed for the intervention group (DASH diet group—DDG). Student’s t- or Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare outcomes between groups. To assess the trajectory of gestational weight gain throughout the intervention between the study groups, linear mixed-effects regression models were used. Results: The DDG had lower gestational weight gain at the fifth (p = 0.03) and seventh appointment (p = 0.04), with no difference in average total gestational weight gain (SDG: 10 kg [SD = 4]; DDG: 9 kg [SD = 5], p = 0.23). There was a trend for a lower length of stay of the newborns (p = 0.08) in the DDG without differences for other perinatal outcomes. Conclusions: The DASH diet promoted less variation in gestational weight gain without promoting a difference in total gestational weight gain, and there was no difference between the study groups for perinatal outcomes.
The Systems Measurement of Mammalian Biotas, Part Two
Authors: Smith Charles H. , Georges Patrick , Nguyen Ngoc
Published: November 2023

For a recent publication, the authors identified a seven-region model of mammal family distribution patterns, in which each unit contributes equally to the system’s overall statistical characteristics of diversity, despite its individual units having measurably different levels of diversity and endemism. This systemization presents a highly efficient descriptive model that can possibly be interpreted as a form of natural classification. An additional analysis of the same mode is described here, in which the seven-region model of the distribution of mammal families’ spatial affinities is shown to closely approach a most-probable-state arrangement, as assessed through combinatorics, raising some important questions about how macroevolutionary patterns might self-organize spatially. One of the possible practical applications of the overall approach is to areal representation; statistical moments of the underlying world patterns can be used to characterize faunal statuses at any individual location by relating the latter to the former. Through this approach, classical concepts such as corridors, tracks, and transition zones might be re-examined in a manner that better lends itself to hypothesis testing. An arbitrarily chosen bounded area, the conterminous United States, is treated in this fashion by way of illustration.
An Ethnobotanical, Phytochemical Analysis, Antimicrobial and Biological Studies of Pulicaria crispa as a Graze Promising Shrub
Authors: AlZain Mashail N. , Albarakaty Fawziah M. , El-Desoukey Rehab M. A.
Published: November 2023

Due to the global issue of antimicrobial resistance, one of the most significant challenges in microbiological research is to develop a replacement antibiotic with minimal adverse effects. The wild shrub Pulicaria crispa (gethgath) has been traditionally used for camel and ruminant grazing. While prior research has demonstrated its antimicrobial properties against human diseases, no investigations have been conducted on its efficacy against animal pathogens. The objective of this study is to explore the ethnobotanical, phytochemical, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial activity of Pulicaria crispa aqueous and solvent extracts against a range of standard and animal pathogens. All of the extracts demonstrated antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, containing bioactive compounds. Notably, the ethyl acetate extract of P. crispa exhibited the strongest antimicrobial activity against tested Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. The chloroform fraction displayed the highest antioxidant activity. Additionally, the ethyl acetate fraction showed promising anticancer activity against breast (MCF-7) and lung (A549) cancer cells. These findings confirm that Pulicaria crispa is a valuable shrub with potential applications as a natural alternative for antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer treatments in both human and veterinary medicine.
Comprehensive Retrospective Analysis of Colorectal Cancer Incidence Patterns in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Basudan Ahmed M. , Basuwdan Abdulrahman Mohammed , Abudawood Manal , Farzan Raed , Alfhili Mohammad A.
Published: November 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the commonest cancer in Saudi males and the third most common in Saudi females. Although CRC represents a major public health challenge, the resources to evaluate its burden are inadequate. This study aims to elucidate the magnitude of CRC incidence trends in the Saudi population by age, gender, and administrative region. Data for multiple incidence measures were analyzed from the Saudi Cancer Registry (SCR) retrospectively from 2001 to 2018. Temporal trends were further analyzed by age group, gender, administrative region, and globally using joinpoint regression analysis. The number of CRC cases climbed by 335.6% and the disease increased by 56.4% to comprise 12.2% of all cancers cases. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) increased by 152% overall, and the median age at diagnosis peaked at 60 and 58 years for males and females, respectively. Riyadh and the Eastern Region had the highest ASR for both genders, peaking at 21.8 and 19.2 for males and 17.4 and 16.5 for females per 100 K population. Our prediction model identified growing trends with annual percentage changes (APCs) of 4.59% in males (CI: 3.1–6.1) and 3.91% among females (CI: 2.4–5.5). Males above 75 years had the highest APC (7.9%, CI: 5.3–10.7), whereas the highest APC among females was found in the age group 70–74 (5.4%, CI: 2.8–8). Globally, APC was the highest for both genders compared to selected countries. CRC incidence is increasing alarmingly in Saudi Arabia and is projected to continue. There is a need for better screening strategies, preventative measures, and awareness-building.
Celebrating Versatility: Febuxostat’s Multifaceted Therapeutic Application
Authors: Kraev Krasimir Iliev , Geneva-Popova Mariela Gencheva , Hristov Bozhidar Krasimirov , Uchikov Petar Angelov , Popova-Belova Stanislava Dimitrova , Kraeva Maria Ilieva , Basheva-Kraeva Yordanka Mincheva , Stoyanova Nina Staneva , Mitkova-Hristova Vesela Todorova
Published: November 2023

Febuxostat, initially developed as a xanthine oxidase inhibitor to address hyperuricemia in gout patients, has evolved into a versatile therapeutic agent with multifaceted applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of febuxostat’s mechanism of action, its effectiveness in gout management, its cardiovascular safety profile, renal and hepatic effects, musculoskeletal applications, safety considerations, and emerging research prospects. Febuxostat’s primary mechanism involves selective inhibition of xanthine oxidase, resulting in reduced uric acid production. Its pharmacokinetics require personalized dosing strategies based on individual characteristics. In gout management, febuxostat offers a compelling alternative, effectively lowering uric acid levels, relieving symptoms, and supporting long-term control, especially for patients intolerant to allopurinol. Recent studies have demonstrated its cardiovascular safety, and it exhibits minimal hepatotoxicity, making it suitable for those with liver comorbidities. Febuxostat’s potential nephroprotective effects and kidney stone prevention properties are noteworthy, particularly for gout patients with renal concerns. Beyond gout, its anti-inflammatory properties hint at applications in musculoskeletal conditions and a broader spectrum of clinical contexts, including metabolic syndrome. Emerging research explores febuxostat’s roles in cardiovascular health, neurological disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer therapy, driven by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. Future directions include personalized medicine, combination therapies, mechanistic insights, and ongoing long-term safety monitoring, collectively illuminating the promising landscape of febuxostat’s multifaceted therapeutic potential.
A Short-Term Evaluation of Foot Pronation Tendency in Healthy Recreational Runners
Authors: Galloso-Lagos María José , González-Elena María Luisa , Pérez-Belloso Ana Juana , Coheña-Jiménez Manuel , Elena-Pérez Mar , Muriel-Sánchez Juan Manuel , Castro-Méndez Aurora
Published: November 2023

Running is a highly physical activity, and it is related to injuries when there is an excessive pronation of the foot. This study evaluates, from a sample group of healthy recreational runners, if the foot tends to pronate after a period of running activity and when, with respect to a period of running compared to walking, evaluated during several phases: after 30, 45, and 60 min. This quasi-experimental study has been carried out on a total of 36 healthy recreational subjects. The subjects were evaluated during two different activities: running activity for a period of an hour with respect to normal walking activity. The main outcome measures were the foot posture index (FPI) and the navicular drop test (NDT), which were evaluated at p1 (the screening day), after 30 min of activity (p2), after 45 min of activity (p3), and finally after 60 min (p4) during running or walking activity. The analysis showed significant differences for the FPI and NDT variables in both groups and on both feet, comparing p1 and p4. These changes showed a significant relationship comparing p1 and p3 for the FPI variable, and for the NDT variable (p < 0.001) of the left foot and, with respect to the right foot, significance was shown to the FPI comparing the p1 and p2. A significant difference was found in the tendency to pronate the foot after a period of running compared to the same period of walking after 60 min of activity. Running produced an excessive pronation of the foot after 45 min of activity, evaluated with the FPI for both feet.
Comparative Analysis of Antibiotic Resistance in Acute Cholangitis Patients with Stent Placement and Sphincterotomy Interventions
Authors: Miutescu Bogdan , Vuletici Deiana , Burciu Calin , Bende Felix , Ratiu Iulia , Moga Tudor , Gadour Eyad , Bratosin Felix , Tummala Durganjali , Sandru Vasile , Balan Gheorghe , Popescu Alina
Published: November 2023

In response to rising concerns over multidrug resistance patterns in acute cholangitis patients, this retrospective study was conducted at the Emergency County Hospital Timisoara, Romania, encompassing patients treated between August 2020 and August 2023. The study aimed to investigate the influence of prior interventions, specifically sphincterotomy (with or without stent placement), on the current clinical and microbiological profiles of acute cholangitis patients. By differentiating between patients with a history of sphincterotomy and the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-naïve, we assessed the resistance of bacterial strains to antibiotics by the Tokyo Guidelines 2018, using bile cultures from 488 patients. The study identified various multidrug-resistant organisms, with a total multidrug resistance incidence of 19.9%. Significant variations were observed in the distribution of specific microorganisms and resistance patterns across different intervention groups. Patients with previous interventions, particularly those with both sphincterotomy and stent, exhibited elevated white blood cells (WBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in comparison to their ERCP-naïve counterparts. This group also presented a striking prevalence of two bacteria in their bile cultures at 50.0%, compared to 16.1% in ERCP-naïve individuals. Regarding multidrug resistance, the prior sphincterotomy with stent placement had a prevalence of 50.0%. The presence of ESBL bacteria was also significantly higher in the same group at 28.7%, contrasting with the 8.9% in ERCP-naïve patients. Additionally, the same group had a higher burden of Klebsiella spp. infections, at 37.2%, and Enterococcus spp. at 43.6%. On the antibiotic resistance front, disparities persisted. Piperacillin/Tazobactam resistance was notably more rampant in patients with a previous sphincterotomy and stent, registering at 25.5% against 11.1% in the ERCP-naïve group. This study underscores a substantial discrepancy in multidrug resistance patterns and antibiotic resistance among acute cholangitis patients with previous manipulation of the bile ducts, without expressing significant differences by the type of stent used.
Edge Changes in Contacts and Joints to Reduce High Localized Shear Traction, Microslip, and Fretting
Authors: Hess Daniel
Published: November 2023

Contacts and joints in structures, mechanisms, and dynamic systems often exhibit high localized interface shear at their edges, leading to edge microslip and fretting wear and fatigue. This introduces complexity, nonlinearity, and multiscale friction phenomena. This paper presents a novel approach to address this issue by introducing geometrical changes near contact edges. Two-dimensional contact models are developed and analyzed using asymptotic, closed-form, and numerical methods to study the effect of edge changes on pressure and shear traction. The results show that geometric changes near contact edges can effectively reduce contact edge shear, thereby inhibiting edge microslip and the resulting fretting wear and fatigue in contacts that occur under dynamic conditions. This approach has implications for reduced complexity in contacts and joints for improved capability in modeling, analysis, and measurement characterization.
Dynamic Characteristics Study of Elastic Ring Squeeze Film Damper with Rigid–Elastic–Oil Coupled Model
Authors: Li Yan , Yang Haisheng , Deng Sier
Published: November 2023

Due to the coupling of the damper journal with the elastic ring and oil film, the elastic ring squeeze film damper (ERSFD) shows better dynamic performance in comparison with the traditional squeeze film damper (SFD). Therefore, a novel rigid–elastic–oil coupled mathematical model was established. The elastic ring deformation, as the key point, is solved according to the planar bending theory. Then, based on the pressure governing equation of the oil film, using the central finite difference method, the oil film pressure was addressed. Meanwhile, the Simpson method was implemented to calculate the dynamic characteristic coefficients (equivalent stiffness and damping Ce) of ERSFD (DCCEs). Also, we analyzed the influence of journal eccentricity, oil film radius clearance, flexibility coefficient and damping hole diameter on the DCCEs, and the results were compared and verified with the existing literature. The sensitivity of each parameter to the DCCEs was analyzed by using the linear regression method. According to the results, the flexibility coefficient has the greatest effect on the DCCEs, followed by the oil film radius clearance. The eccentricity of the journal and damping hole diameter have the least impact. This work will provide a theoretical basis for reflecting on the bearing dynamic characteristics more truly and accurately.
Corrosion Studies of Temperature-Resistant Zinc Alloy Sacrificial Anodes and Casing Pipe at Different Temperatures
Authors: Zhao Mifeng , Feng Shaobo , Hu Fangting , Geng Hailong , Li Xuanpeng , Long Yan , Feng Wenhao , Chen Zihan
Published: November 2023

In order to solve the problem of external corrosion of deep well casing in oil and gas fields, a new type of high-temperature-resistant zinc alloy sacrificial anode material was used. The temperature and corrosion resistance of the new anode material and TP140 casing were investigated by simulating the high-temperature working conditions of a deep well in an oil field using high-temperature and high-pressure corrosion tests and electrochemical tests. The results showed that at 100–120 °C, the corrosion rate of TP140 protected by a sacrificial anode was only one-tenth of that under unprotected conditions, and the minimum corrosion rate of TP140 protected by a sacrificial anode at 100 °C was 0.0089 mm/a. The results of the dynamic potential polarization curve showed that the corresponding corrosion current density of TP140 first increased and then decreased with the increase in temperature. The self-corrosion potential in sacrificial anode materials first increased and then decreased with the increase in temperature, and the potential difference with TP140 gradually decreased.
Impact Response of Re-Entrant Hierarchical Honeycomb
Authors: Lian Jinming , Wang Zhenqing
Published: November 2023

Here, hexagonal and triangular lattices are layered and merged into a re-entrant honeycomb to replace each cell wall of the re-entrant honeycomb. In order to study the crushing behavior of the new variable-angle-variable-substructure-number-gradient honeycomb, a finite element analysis of in-plane and out-of-plane crushing was carried out. The effects of different gradient parameters on the deformation mode and extrusion response were discussed, respectively. The results show that different grading parameters have different effects on the crushing behavior of honeycombs for in-plane and out-of-plane crushing. Compared with out-of-plane crushing, the influence of the hierarchical structure on the in-plane crushing deformation mode and the increase in platform stress are much larger. Compared with the ordinary honeycombs, changing the substructure angle does not necessarily improve the platform stress of the honeycomb. From the perspective of platform stress, the layered structure has different effects on the improvement of honeycomb energy absorption; the maximum platform stress of the honeycomb is increased.
Exploring the Detection of Cl− Penetration in Portland Cement Mortars via Surface Electrical Resistivity
Authors: Pablo-Calderón Miguel Alberto , Cano-Barrita Prisciliano Felipe de Jesús , León-Martínez Frank Manuel
Published: November 2023

Surface electrical resistivity is a non-destructive technique that is sensitive to the microstructure of hydrated cement paste and the chemical composition of the pore solution in cement-based materials. In this study, a Wenner array was used to measure changes in mortar resistivity due to chloride ion diffusion as a function of electrode separation. Specimens were made from four mortar mixtures: 100% Ordinary Portland cement and 60% cement + 40% fly ash at two water/binder ratios of 0.55 and 0.40. The specimens were subjected to unidirectional chloride ion diffusion in a 2.8 M NaCl solution for 175 days. To determine the chloride penetration depth, three methods were used: silver nitrate spraying, chloride concentration profiles via potentiometric titration, and chloride concentration profiles via inversion of the resistivity data using the RES1D software (version 1.00.09 Beta). The results showed a linear relationship between the chloride ion penetration depth obtained via inversion of the surface electrical resistivity data versus the penetration depth from colorimetry and from chloride concentration profiling (both with R2 = 0.8612). Chloride penetration changed the conductivity of the pore solution; therefore, the resistivity decreased when increasing both the chloride concentration and the penetration depth. Inversion of surface resistivity data obtained with a Wenner array permitted non-destructive determination of chloride penetration. However, these results were obtained under laboratory environmental conditions and other scenarios must be addressed for wider applications.
Maintaining Excellent Mechanical Properties via Additive Manufacturing of Low-N 25Cr-Type Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: He Jianguo , Lv Jiesheng , Song Zhigang , Wang Changjun , Feng Han , Wu Xiaohan , Zhu Yuliang , Zheng Wenjie
Published: November 2023

Duplex stainless steel (DSS) exhibits good mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, and has attracted more and more attention within the fields of both science and technology. However, the increasing levels of N and of Cr, Mo, etc., as alloying elements in DSS increase production difficulty. In particular, the N element increases the risk of Cr2N precipitation, which can seriously deteriorate the thermal plasticity of DSS, while increasing its strength. For this reason, a low-N-content 25Cr-type DSS was designed in order to adapt additive manufacturing processes. With regard to the nano-inclusions of oxide precipitation and effective grain refinement, and considering the benefits of selective laser melting fabrication, a low-N 25Cr-type duplex stainless steel with a 0.09 wt.% N content achieved high mechanical properties, with a yield strength of 712 MPa and an elongation of 27.5%, while the V-notch impact toughness was 160 J/cm2. The microstructure evolution and the reasons behind the improvement in mechanical properties will be discussed in detail.
A Tree-Based Heuristic for the One-Dimensional Cutting Stock Problem Optimization Using Leftovers
Authors: Bressan Glaucia Maria , Pimenta-Zanon Matheus Henrique , Sakuray Fabio
Published: November 2023

Cutting problems consist of cutting a set of objects available in stock in order to produce the desired items in specified quantities and sizes. The cutting process can generate leftovers (which can be reused in the case of new demand) or losses (which are discarded). This paper presents a tree-based heuristic method for minimizing the number of cut bars in the one-dimensional cutting process, satisfying the item demand in an unlimited bar quantity of just one type. The results of simulations are compared with the RGRL1 algorithm and with the limiting values for this considered type of problem. The results show that the proposed heuristic reduces processing time and the number of bars needed in the cutting process, while it provides a larger leftover (by grouping losses) for the one-dimensional cutting stock problem. The heuristic contributes to reduction in raw materials or manufacturing costs in industrial processes.
The Influence of Titanium Dioxide Nanosheet on Water Permeability of Silicone Rubber after Nitrogen Dioxide Aging Treatment
Authors: Peng Xiangyang , Zhang Jinshuai , Fang Jiapeng , Wang Zheng , Huang Zhen , Kuang Shilong , He Chunqing
Published: November 2023

In this study, the aging process of a surface-functional titanium dioxide nanosheet (f-TNS) composited room-temperature-vulcanized silicone rubber (RTV) composite coating was simulated in a NO2 generation device, and then the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) of the aged composite coating was tested in a 3.5% NaCl solution. The water permeation process was analyzed by the changes in the impedance modulus, porosity, and breakpoint frequency of the composite coating. The experimental results show that the water permeability of aged RTV decreases first and then increases with the increase in the composite proportion of f-TNS. When the composite proportion of TNS was 0.3 wt.%, the composite sample had the minimum water permeability and the best resistance to NO2 corrosion. The effect of TNS on the NO2 aging resistance of RTV composites and its mechanism were studied by SEM, FT-IR, and XPS. The impedance modulus and porosity of the aged 0.3% f-TNS/RTV, respectively, were 1.82 × 107 Ω cm2 and 0.91 × 10−4%, which increased by 2.23 times and decreased by 0.37 times, respectively, compared with the values of aged pure RTV sample. In addition, the breakpoint frequency of the aged 0.3% f-TNS/RTV also significantly reduced to 11.3 Hz, whereas it was 35 Hz in aged pure RTV.
Quantitative Fault Diagnostics of Hydraulic Cylinder Using Particle Filter
Authors: Zhang Yakun , Vacca Andrea , Gong Guofang , Yang Huayong
Published: November 2023

Condition-based hydraulic cylinder maintenance necessitates quantitative fault diagnostics. However, existing methods are characterized by either qualitative or limited quantitative capabilities. In this paper, a quantitative fault diagnostic method using a particle filter for hydraulic cylinders is proposed. The problem of quantitative fault diagnostics is formally formulated in a stochastic framework to assess the health/fault state, and an architecture based on joint state-parameter estimation is proposed. Through the establishment and analysis of a nonlinear dynamic model of the hydraulic cylinder, the impact of time-varying parameters on the state variables is revealed. Three fault modes of the cylinder, including friction, internal leakage, and external leakage, are theoretically identified. The proposed method allows for a simultaneous quantitative diagnosis of these three fault modes. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated using meticulously designed experiments. The results demonstrate that the mean absolute percentage errors in the parameter estimations are below 9% (accuracy exceeding 91%), thus validating its feasibility and effectiveness.
Human Pose Estimation Using Deep Learning: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Samkari Esraa , Arif Muhammad , Alghamdi Manal , Al Ghamdi Mohammed A.
Published: November 2023

Human Pose Estimation (HPE) is the task that aims to predict the location of human joints from images and videos. This task is used in many applications, such as sports analysis and surveillance systems. Recently, several studies have embraced deep learning to enhance the performance of HPE tasks. However, building an efficient HPE model is difficult; many challenges, like crowded scenes and occlusion, must be handled. This paper followed a systematic procedure to review different HPE models comprehensively. About 100 articles published since 2014 on HPE using deep learning were selected using several selection criteria. Both image and video data types of methods were investigated. Furthermore, both single and multiple HPE methods were reviewed. In addition, the available datasets, different loss functions used in HPE, and pretrained feature extraction models were all covered. Our analysis revealed that Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) are the most used in HPE. Moreover, occlusion and crowd scenes remain the main problems affecting models’ performance. Therefore, the paper presented various solutions to address these issues. Finally, this paper highlighted the potential opportunities for future work in this task.
Green Supplier Selection Based on Sequential Group Three-Way Decision Making
Authors: Song Jiekun , Leng Xueli , Liu Zhicheng
Published: November 2023

Environmental protection and sustainable development have become the consensus of all countries in the world. Enterprises must pay attention to the impact on the environment in their operations. Therefore, the selection of green suppliers has become a crucial issue for companies. Supplier selection is a dynamic and complex multi-attribute group decision-making process. The decision results have the tripartite characteristics of “accepted”, “rejected” and “pending further investigation”, and experts need to constantly negotiate in the decision-making process to achieve consensus. In view of the above characteristics, this study constructs a sequential group three-way decision making (TWDM) method to support green supplier selection. Firstly, we review the existing literature on the evaluation criteria and selection methods of green suppliers. In this process, we construct an evaluation attribution system including the following four aspects: product formation, service level, development capability, and green level. Secondly, combining with the sequential and group characteristics of decision making, we propose a multiple-attribute sequential group TWDM method based on a multi-level granularity structure. The weight of each decision maker is determined by his influence weight and interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy entropy weight. The attribute weight is determined by entropy weight and subjective weight. By using the VIsekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method improved by grey relation analysis (GRA), we calculate conditional probabilities. Since the cumulative prospect theory can reflect the risk attitude of decision makers, we apply it to calculate the decision thresholds. Finally, we apply a case of Q automobile manufacturer to verify the effectiveness, applicability and feasibility of the method. The innovation of this study is to construct social networks at each granularity level and introduce an expert information exchange model to promote group consensus. The sequential group TWDM method provides a new reference and idea for the selection of green suppliers.
Aggregation Methods Based on Quality Model Assessment for Federated Learning Applications: Overview and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Bejenar Iuliana , Ferariu Lavinia , Pascal Carlos , Caruntu Constantin-Florin
Published: November 2023

Federated learning (FL) offers the possibility of collaboration between multiple devices while maintaining data confidentiality, as required by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Though FL can keep local data private, it may encounter problems when dealing with non-independent and identically distributed data (non-IID), insufficient local training samples or cyber-attacks. This paper introduces algorithms that can provide a reliable aggregation of the global model by investigating the accuracy of models received from clients. This allows reducing the influence of less confident nodes, who were potentially attacked or unable to perform successful training. The analysis includes the proposed FedAcc and FedAccSize algorithms, together with their new extension based on the Lasso regression, FedLasso. FedAcc and FedAccSize set the confidence in each client based only on local models’ accuracy, while FedLasso exploits additional details related to predictions, like predicted class probabilities, to support a refined aggregation. The ability of the proposed algorithms to protect against intruders or underperforming clients is demonstrated experimentally using testing scenarios involving independent and identically distributed (IID) data as well as non-IID data. The comparison with the established FedAvg and FedAvgM algorithms shows that exploiting the quality of the client models is essential for reliable aggregation, which enables rapid and robust improvement in the global model.
On Rank Selection in Non-Negative Matrix Factorization Using Concordance
Authors: Fogel Paul , Geissler Christophe , Morizet Nicolas , Luta George
Published: November 2023

The choice of the factorization rank of a matrix is critical, e.g., in dimensionality reduction, filtering, clustering, deconvolution, etc., because selecting a rank that is too high amounts to adjusting the noise, while selecting a rank that is too low results in the oversimplification of the signal. Numerous methods for selecting the factorization rank of a non-negative matrix have been proposed. One of them is the cophenetic correlation coefficient (ccc), widely used in data science to evaluate the number of clusters in a hierarchical clustering. In previous work, it was shown that ccc performs better than other methods for rank selection in non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) when the underlying structure of the matrix consists of orthogonal clusters. In this article, we show that using the ratio of ccc to the approximation error significantly improves the accuracy of the rank selection. We also propose a new criterion, concordance, which, like ccc, benefits from the stochastic nature of NMF; its accuracy is also improved by using its ratio-to-error form. Using real and simulated data, we show that concordance, with a CUSUM-based automatic detection algorithm for its original or ratio-to-error forms, significantly outperforms ccc. It is important to note that the new criterion works for a broader class of matrices, where the underlying clusters are not assumed to be orthogonal.
Twisted Hypersurfaces in Euclidean 5-Space
Authors: Li Yanlin , Güler Erhan
Published: November 2023

The twisted hypersurfaces x with the (0,0,0,0,1) rotating axis in five-dimensional Euclidean space E5 is considered. The fundamental forms, the Gauss map, and the shape operator of x are calculated. In E5, describing the curvatures by using the Cayley–Hamilton theorem, the curvatures of hypersurfaces x are obtained. The solutions of differential equations of the curvatures of the hypersurfaces are open problems. The umbilically and minimality conditions to the curvatures of x are determined. Additionally, the Laplace–Beltrami operator relation of x is given.
Gram Points in the Universality of the Dirichlet Series with Periodic Coefficients
Authors: Šiaučiūnas Darius , Tekorė Monika
Published: November 2023

Let a={am:m∈N} be a periodic multiplicative sequence of complex numbers and L(s;a), s=σ+it a Dirichlet series with coefficients am. In the paper, we obtain a theorem on the approximation of non-vanishing analytic functions defined in the strip 1/2<σ<1 via discrete shifts L(s+ihtk;a), h>0, k∈N, where {tk:k∈N} is the sequence of Gram points. We prove that the set of such shifts approximating a given analytic function is infinite. This result extends and covers that of [Korolev, M.; Laurinčikas, A. A new application of the Gram points. Aequat. Math. 2019, 93, 859–873]. For the proof, a limit theorem on weakly convergent probability measures in the space of analytic functions is applied.