bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salvia miltiorrhiza Ameliorates Disease Progression in Dextran-Sodium-Sulfate Induced Colitis in Mice
Authors: Chen Juan , Chen Danyu , Cheng Lu , Yang YongKang , Gu Weidong , Qin Dajiang , Wang Bin , Li Gang
Published: October 2021

Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM, or Danshen) extract has been approved by China FDA for the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases owing to its potent anti-inflammatory effects. Whether SM may be used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains elusive. In the current study, Dextran-Sodium-Sulfate (DSS) induced colitis in mice was used as a model of IBD, and SM was given orally for 7 days. SM administration has significantly reduced the disease activity index (DAI) score and weight lost and colon shortening in the DSS-induced colitis mice. The macrophage infiltration was significantly reduced in the SM treatment group. To explore the mechanisms, macrophage processor cell line Raw 264.7 was used to verify the anti-inflammatory effect of SM. SM treatment inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophage activation in RAW264.7 cells and significantly reduced the production of pro-inflammatory factors. The current study provided evidence that oral administration of SM ameliorates pathological deterioration of IBD in mice, and warrants future clinical application of SM for the management of IBD.
J-Aggregates of Boron Difluoride β-Diketonates in Polymer Matrix: Formation and Dissociation. Temperature-Dependent Luminescence.
Authors: Fedorenrko Elema V. , Mirochnik Anatolii G.
Published: October 2021

Temperature-dependent luminescence of polymer compositions doped with boron difluoride β-diketonates has been investigated. At room temperature, the luminescence of the samples is yellow-green, and it becomes blue when heated. The mechanism of the temperature-dependent luminescence consists in the dissociation of J-aggregates of dyes at heating. The process of dissociation of J-aggregates is reversible. These boron difluoride β-diketonates have the potential in wide-range applications in the field of temperature sensing.Trial registration number Date of registration
Alterations to the gut microbiome after sport-related concussion in a collegiate football players cohort
Authors: Soriano Sirena , Curry Kristen , Sadrameli Saeed , Wang Qi , Nute Michael , Reeves Elizabeth , Kabir Rasadul , Wiese Jonathan , Criswell Amber , Schodrof Sarah , Britz Gavin , Gadhia Rajan , Podell Kenneth , Treangen Todd , Villapol Sonia
Published: October 2021

Concussions, both single and repetitive, during contact sports cause brain and body alterations in athletes. The role of the brain-gut connection and changes in the microbiota have not been well established after a head injury or concussion-related health consequences. We recruited 33 Division I Collegiate football players and collected blood, stool, and saliva samples throughout the athletic season. Analysis of the gut microbiome reveals a decrease in abundance for two bacterial species, Eubacterium rectale, and Anaerostipes hadrus, after a diagnosed concussion. No significant differences were found regarding the salivary microbiome. Serum biomarker analysis shows an increase in GFAP blood levels in athletes during athletic activity. Additionally, S100β and SAA blood levels were positively correlated with the abundance of Eubacterium rectale species among athletes exposed to subconcussive impacts. These novel findings provide evidence that detecting changes in the gut microbiome may pave the way for improved concussion diagnosis following head injury.
Translational Evaluation of a Dodecaborated Albumin Conjugate With Maleimide as a Boron Delivery System for a Neutron Capture Reaction to an F98 Rat Glioma Model
Authors: Kashiwagi Hideki , Kawabata Shinji , Yoshimura Kohei , Fukuo Yusuke , Kanemitsu Takuya , Takeuchi Koji , Hiramatsu Ryo , Nishimura Kai , Kawai Kazuki , Takata Takushi , Tanaka Hiroki , Watanabe Tsubasa , Suzuki Minoru , Miyatake Shin-Ichi , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Wanibuchi Masahiko
Published: October 2021

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a biologically targeted, cell-selective particle irradiation therapy that utilizes the nuclear capture reaction of boron and neutron. Recently, accelerator neutron generators have been used in clinical settings, and expectations for developing new boron compounds are growing. In this study, we focused on serum albumin, a well-known drug delivery system, and developed maleimide-functionalized closo-dodecaborate albumin conjugate (MID-AC) as a boron carrying system for BNCT. Our biodistribution experiment involved F98 glioma-bearing rat brain tumor models systemically administered with MID-AC and demonstrated accumulation and long retention of boron. Our BNCT study with MID-AC observed statistically significant prolongation of the survival rate compared to the control groups, with results comparable to BNCT study with boronophenylalanine (BPA) which is the standard use of in clinical settings. Each median survival time was as follows: untreated control group; 24.5 days, neutron-irradiated control group; 24.5 days, neutron irradiation following 2.5 hours after termination of intravenous administration (i.v.) of BPA; 31.5 days, and neutron irradiation following 2.5 or 24 hours after termination of i.v. of MID-AC; 33.5 or 33.0 days, respectively. The biological effectiveness factor of MID-AC for F98 rat glioma was estimated based on these survival times and found to be higher to 12. This tendency was confirmed in BNCT 24 hours after MID-AC administration. MID-AC induces an efficient boron neutron capture reaction because the albumin contained in MID-AC is retained in the tumor and has a considerable potential to become an effective delivery system for BNCT in treating high-grade gliomas.
Modelling of 1D Triangular Ag-Grating for Enhanced Absorption in Thin Film Solar Cell
Authors: Iqbal Tahir , Zainb Zarqa , Tabassum Huma
Published: October 2021

This paper mainly focuses on Design and Optimization of 1-D triangular grating for Solar cell applications using Silver Metal. The weak light trapping in the active layer of thin film solar cells is a major issue in solar cell technology. Periodic grating is one of the methods used to improve light absorption in the thin film solar cell's substrate. The current study presents the effect of a 1-D triangular grating device on solar cell absorption enhancement. The 5.3a COMSOL RF module is used for the desired geometry comprising silicon (c-Si) crystalline as the substrate. The slit width of grating is optimized using near and far-Field Analysis in the designed structure magnifies the light-trapping process in the thin-film solar cell. For this purpose, the transmission spectrums are analyzed at various slit angles angle (142 o −148 o ), constant film thickness (100nm), and constant periodicity (700nm). The optimal value of the slit width is obtained as 350nm, which is half the frequency. Variation of θ= 144.57° yielded the highest value of electric field which corresponds to lowest value of relative transmission in full width at half maxima peak. The transmission spectra were taken by varying film angle (142 o −148 o ) at normal incidence to observe the acceptable value of film thickness for the optimization of the grating system. Such optimization is quite helpful for improvement in the light absorption hence over all efficiency of thin film solar cells.
Partial Relay Selection for Two-Way Mixed RF/FSO DF Networks in the Presence of I/Q Imbalance
Authors: Mittal Shweta , Yadav Pankaj , dwivedi vivek
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the study of mixed radio frequency (RF)/ free space optical (FSO) communication decode and forward (DF) two way relaying (TWR) has been presented. In fact, it has been considered that multiple relays are present out of which the best operational relay is selected as per the partial relay selection (PRS) methodology in the presence of outdated channel state information (CSI). Importantly, the relay nodes are assumed to operate in the presence of in phase (I) quadrature phase (Q) imbalance (IQI). The atmospheric turbulence on the FSO link has been modeled using the Malaga distribution with pointing errors. In addition to this, the impact of type of optical demodulation has been considered in the analysis. For the system model, outage probability expression has been derived in terms of Meijer-G
and Fox’s H-functions. In addition to this, for the TWR system, the outage probability expressions have been modified to present asymptotic results in terms of elementary functions. The numerical analysis of the research work suggests that the overall mixed RF/FSO DF TWR system is impacted by the image rejection ratio (IRR) due to IQI, correlation between outdated CSI, atmospheric turbulence, pointing error and type of optical demodulation in addition to the amount of fading on the RF link.
Exponentially Mean Stability Analysis of Positive Markov Jump Neural Networks with Time Delay
Authors: Yin Kai , Yang Dedong , Liu Jiao , Li Hongchao , Wang Li
Published: October 2021

A new result for the analysis of positive Markov jump neural networks(PMJNNs) with time delay is described in this paper. By rewriting the PMJNNs with time delay in both continues-time and discrete-time domains into equivalent positive neural networks(PNNs) and analyzing their stability issues, two delay-dependent sufficient conditions are presented to ensure that the continuous-time and the discrete-time PMJNNs with time delay are exponentially mean stable(EMS) through using the inequality technique. All conditions obtained in the paper are in terms of standard linear programming, which reduces the conservatism. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to verify the validity of our results.
Whole-Plant Corn Silage Improves Rumen Fermentation and Growth Performance of Beef Cattle by Altering Rumen Microbiota
Authors: Cui Yalei , Liu Hua , Gao Zimin , Xu Junying , Liu Boshuai , Guo Ming , Yang Xu , Niu Jiakuan , Zhu Xiaoyan , Ma Sen , Li Defeng , Sun Yu , Shi Yinghua
Published: October 2021

BackgroundIn recent years, whole-plant corn silage had been widely used in China. Roughage was an important source of nutrition for ruminants and had an important effect on rumen microbiota, which plays an important role in animal growth performance and feed digestion. To better understand the effects of different silages on rumen microbiota, the effects of whole-plant corn silage or corn straw silage on growth performance, rumen fermentation products, and rumen microbiota of Simmental hybrid cattle were studied. Results60 healthy Simmental hybrid cattle were randomly divided into 2 groups with 6 repeats in each group and 5 cattle in each group. They were fed with whole-plant corn silage (WS) diet and corn straw silage (CS) diet respectively. Compared with corn straw silage, whole-plant corn silage significantly increased daily gain and decreased feed-weight ratio of beef cattle. Whole-plant corn silage also decreased the acetic acid in the rumen and the acetate to propionate (A/P) ratio compared with corn straw silage. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Prevotella_1 was significantly increased while the relative abundance of Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-002, Succiniclasticum, norank_f_Bacteroidales_RF16_group, and Ruminococcus_1 was decreased in cattle fed whole-plant corn silage compared with those fed corn straw silage. Prevotella_1 was positively correlated with acetic acid and A/P ratio, Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-002 was positively correlated with propionic acid and butyric acid, and negatively correlated with pH, Succiniclasticum was positively correlated with pH and A/P ratio, and norank_f__F082 and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group were positively correlated with pH, propionic acid and butyric acid. Feeding whole-plant corn silage improved amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, and metabolism of beef cattle compared with feeding corn straw silage. Correlation analysis between rumen microbiota and metabolic pathways showed that Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-002 was negatively correlated with Carbohydrate Metabolism, Glycan Biosynthesis, and Metabolism, while Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 was positively correlated with Amino Acid Metabolism, and Carbohydrate Metabolism. ConclusionsFeeding whole-plant corn silage can improve the production performance rumen fermentation of beef cattle by altering rumen microbiota, amino acid metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism.
Integrated Proteome and Phosphoproteome Analyses Reveal Early and Late-stage Protein Network of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Huang Yutao , Zhang Haofuzi , Li Xin , Yue Kangyi , Gao Xiangyu , Yang Erwan , Dai Shuhui , Wei Jialiang , Yang Yuefan , Luo Peng , Jiang Xiaofan
Published: October 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major public health concern all around the world. Accumulating evidence suggests that pathological processes after brain injury continuously evolve. Here, we identified the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and differentially expressed phosphoproteins (DEPPs) in the early and late stages of TBI in mice using TMT labeling, enrichment of Phos affinity followed, and high-resolution LC-MS/MS analysis. Subsequently, integrative analyses, including functional enrichment-based clustering analysis, motif analysis, cross-talk pathway/process enrichment analysis, and protein-protein interaction enrichment analysis were performed to further identify the different and similar pathophysiologic mechanisms in the early and late stage. Our work reveals a map of early and late-stage protein networks in TBI, which shed light on useful biomarkers and the underlying mechanisms in TBI and its sequelae.
Association of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index with the survival of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer after platinum-based chemotherapy
Authors: Karayama Masato , Inoue Yusuke , Yasui Hideki , Hozumi Hironao , Suzuki Yuzo , Furuhashi Kazuki , Fujisawa Tomoyuki , Enomoto Noriyuki , Nakamura Yutaro , Inui Naoki , Suda Takafumi
Published: October 2021

Background
The nutritional status can potentially affect the efficacy of cancer therapy. We evaluated the relationships between the nutritional status and the efficacy of chemotherapy in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Methods
The Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), calculated from body weight and serum albumin, was retrospectively evaluated in 148 patients with NSCLC who received first-line platinum-based chemotherapy and scored as low or high.
Results
Patients with a high GNRI had a significantly higher overall response rate (ORR; 61.8% [95% confidence interval {CI} = 52.5–70.3%] vs. 34.2% [95% CI = 21.2–50.1%, p < 0.004), longer median progression-free survival (PFS; 6.3 months [95% CI = 5.6–7.2 months] vs. 3.8 months [95% CI = 2.5–4.7 months], p < 0.001), and longer median overall survival (OS; 22.8 months [95% CI = 16.7–27.2 months] vs. 8.5 months [95% CI = 5.4–16.0 months], p < 0.001) than those with low GNRI. High GNRI was independently predictive of longer PFS and OS, but not ORR, in multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses. In 71 patients who received second-line non-platinum chemotherapy, patients with high GNRI exhibited significantly longer PFS and OS than those with low GNRI (both p < 0.001).
Conclusions
GNRI was predictive of prolonged survival in patients with NSCLC who received first-line platinum-based chemotherapy and second-line non-platinum chemotherapy. Assessment of the nutritional status may be useful for predicting the efficacy of chemotherapy.
​Effects of Foliar Application of Nano-Se On Photosynthetic Characteristics and Se Accumulation in Paeonia Ostii
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Chunlai , Nie Mei , Cheng Dan , Chen Jianxin , Wang Shengji , Lv Jinhui , Niu Yanbing
Published: October 2021

Background Selenium is an essential micronutrient in human metabolism. However, the Se level in foods is far below the standards due to the fact that it is deficient in two thirds of arable soils. Therefore, consuming Se-enriched plant products which convert inorganic Se into organic Se might be a safe and effective way to supplement Se for the human body. Paeonia ostii is a unique medicinal and edible plant in China, and also a new special woody oil crop. It serves as a perfect mediator for Se biofortification. In this report the effects of nano-Se foliar application on photosynthetic parameters, physiological characteristics and Se-enrichment effect in various plant organs of P. ostii cultivar Feng Dan were investigated in randomized complete block design experiments with different doses of spray in Se-deficient soils.Results By contrast to the control, nano-Se sprays enhanced net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration, and chlorophyll content of Feng Dan. The content of soluble sugar, soluble protein, proline and activities of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase were increased while malondialdehyde content was significantly reduced. The stimulatory effect at concentrations of 6.00 and 8.25 g·hm-2 was the best in this study. nano-Se application significantly increased the Se content in all organs of Fengdan except the root compared to the control, and Se contents in various organs were increased paralleled with the increase of concentrations applied, and ordered as follows under suitable concentration, Testa > leaf > kernel > stem > root.ConclusionsThe above results show that nano-Se sprays at concentrations of 6.00-8.25 g·hm-2 stimulated the growth of Feng Dan and achieved the best Se-enrichment effect in this study. It also proved that the Se biofortification effect depends on its dosage applied and types of plant organs. These results provide guidance on Se enrichment of horticultural crops.
A type IVB secretion system adapted for bacterial killing, biofilm invasion and biocontrol
Authors: Purtschert-Montenegro Gabriela , Cárcamo-Oyarce Gerardo , Pinto-Carbó Marta , Agnoli Kirsty , Bailly Aurelien , Eberl Leo
Published: October 2021

Many bacteria utilize contact-dependent killing machineries to eliminate rivals in their environmental niches. Here, we show that Pseudomonas putida IsoF is able to outcompete a wide range of bacteria with the aid of a novel type IVB secretion system (T4BSS) that can deliver toxic effectors into bacterial competitors. This extends the host range of T4BSSs, which were so far thought to transfer effectors only into eukaryotic cells, to prokaryotes. Bioinformatic and genetic analyses showed that this killing machine is entirely encoded by a rare genomic island, which has been recently acquired by horizontal gene transfer. IsoF utilizes this secretion system not only as a defensive weapon to antagonize bacterial competitors but also as an offensive weapon to invade existing biofilms, allowing the strain to persist in its natural environment. Furthermore, we show that IsoF can protect tomato plants against the plant pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum in a T4BSS-dependent manner, suggesting that IsoF capabilities can be exploited for pest control and sustainable agriculture.
STUB1-SMYD2 Axis Regulated Drug Resistance in Glioma cells
Authors: Pan Kailing , Hu Bin , Wang Lude , Fang Jinyong , Yuan Jianlie , Xu Wenxia
Published: October 2021

Aim: SMYD2 is an important epigenetic regulator that methylates histone and non-histone proteins. This study aims to investigate SMYD2 as an oncogene of gliomas and explore its degradation mechanism induced by cisplatin.Methods: Tumor tissue microarray of 441 glioma patients was collected for SMYD2 immunohistochemistry staining. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were constructed by using he overall survival. mRNA-sequencing analysis was detected for understanding the downstream mechanisms mediated by SMYD2. The half-inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of temozolomide and cisplatin in AZ505-treated and control cells were calculated. Thepotential E3 ubiquitin ligase of SMYD2 was predicted in UbiBrowser and confirmed by knockdown test. The effect of SMYD2 and its E3 ligase on gliomas apoptosis and migration were determined via cell-function assays.Results: High SMYD2 expression correlated with a high WHO stage (P=0.004) and a low survival probability (P=0.012). The inhibition of SMYD2 suppressed the process of EMT by downregulating the expression of COL1A1. AZ505 treatment significantly increased drug sensitivity of glioma cells. And the expression of SMYD2 was markedly reduced by cisplatin treatment via STUB1 mediated degradation. The knockdown of STUB1 could partly reverse the cell function impairment induced by cisplatin.Conclusion: These findings suggested that SMYD2 could be a potential drug target for the treatment of gliomas, and STUB1-mediated degradation of SMYD2 plays an important role in reversing chemotherapy resistance in gliomas.
SELENOT–Knockdown Leads to Reducing the Expression of Key Enzymes of ERAD–System in Cancer Cells Under ER–Stress
Authors: Goltyaev M. V. , Blinova E. V. , Varlamova E. G.
Published: October 2021

SELENOT is one of the seven selenoproteins localized in the ER. The purpose of this work was to study the effect of SELENOT–knockdown on mRNA expression of a large number of genes (ER–stress markers, physiological partners of SELENOT, ER–resident selenoproteins, other selenoproteins) under conditions of ER–stress caused by both selenium–containing compounds (sodium selenite and methylseleninic acid) and non–selenium–containing compounds (dithiothriitol) by the example of two human cancer cell lines A–172 (human glioblastoma) and Caco–2 (human colorectal adenocarcinoma). In the course of this work, it was found that SELENOT–knockdown does not significantly affect viability and proliferative properties, redox homeostasis in A–172 and Caco–2 cells and the acquisition of signs of normal cells by them, does not significantly affect the expression of ER–stress marker genes, ER–resident selenoproteins, with the exception of DIO2 and SELENOM. But it has a significant effect on reducing the levels of mRNA expression of AMFR and RNF5 are important enzymes of the ERAD–system, disrupting its work and leading to the accumulation of proteins with incorrect folding, thereby only aggravating ER stress.
Optimization of Atomized Spray Cutting Fluid Eco-Friendly Turning of Inconel 718 Alloy Using ARAS and CODAS Methods
Authors: Sivalingam Vinothkumar , Poogavanam Ganeshkumar , Natarajan Yuvaraj , Sun Jie
Published: October 2021

Atomized spray cutting fluid (ASCF) is a sophisticated machining technique that achieves higher productivity, enhanced surface quality, extended tool life, and cost benefits. This research aims to analyze the influence of cutting process parameters on Inconel 718 alloy turning in dry and ASCF cutting environments. The critical machining indices such as surface roughness, machining cost, power consumption, and tool life were analyzed concerning these two cooling environments. The cutting parameters were optimized using desirability functional analysis and two types of multicriteria decision making (MCDM) method, such as additive ratio assessment method (ARAS) and combinative distance-based assessment (CODAS) method, were investigated. The composite desirability index (CD) of optimum parameter setting(A2B1C2D2) is improved by 6.34 % compared to the initial parameter setting (A2B1C2D1). The optimum parameters from the MCDM technique are obtained as a cutting speed of 200 m/min, feed rate of 0.08 mm/rev, and depth of cut of 0.2 mm under ASCF environment. ASCF machining significantly minimize the surface roughness, machining cost and power consumption, maximize the tool life by about 16%, 51%, 17% and 48% respectively as compared with dry machining
Myocardial SPECT Perfusion Defects in Angina Patients, Without Significant Epicardial Coronary Artery Disease. Can Pathological SPECT Affect Long-Term Prognosis?
Authors: LAMPAS EVANGELOS , Syrmali Kiriaki , Nikitas Georgios , Papadakis Emmanouil C. , Patsilinakos Sotirios P.
Published: October 2021

Purpose: Patients with angina and a positive SPECT for reversible ischemia, with no or non-obstructive CAD on ICA represent a frequent clinical problem and predicting prognosis is challenging. Methods: A retrospective single center study focused on patients that underwent elective-ICA with angina and a positive SECT with no or non-obstructive CAD in the CathLab, during a seven-year period. Assessment of patients’ cardiovascular morbidity, mortality, and MACE during a follow-up period of at least three years after ICA, with the assist of a telephone questionnaire.Results: Data of all patients that underwent ICA for a period of 7 years (from January 1,2011 until December 31, 2017) in our hospital were analyzed. The patients that fulfilled the prespecified criteria were 569. At the telephone survey, 285(50.1%) were successfully contacted and agreed to participate. The mean age was 67.6 (SD8.8) years (35.4%female) and the mean follow-up time was 5.53years (SD1.85). Mortality rate was 1.7% (4 patients/non-cardiac causes) and 1,7% rate of revascularization. 31(10,9%) were hospitalized for cardiac reasons and 10,9% patients reported symptoms of HF (no patients with NYHA-Class above II). 21 had arrhythmic events and only two mild anginal symptoms. Noteworthy finding was, the mortality rate in the not-contacted group (12 out of 284, 4,2%), derived by public security records, did not differ significantly from the contacted-group. Conclusions: Patients with angina, a positive SPECT for reversible ischemia and no or non-obstructive CAD in ICA have very good long-term cardiovascular prognosis for at least 5 years.
A Facile Solution on Secret Key generation and Secure Distribution
Authors: Cai Lifeng
Published: October 2021

We designed systems to generate and securely distribute unlimited number of secret keys from a master key with key strength of the system can be equal to the bit-count of the master key. We first set 3 prerequisites for system security from basic principles and design scheme accordingly, use master key as the solely system privacy, combine the master key and arbitrarily unrepeated timestamps to generate medium keys, generate keys therefrom using one-way data conversion algorithm (OWDCA), and distribute keys by corresponding timestamps between legitimate users exclusively sharing the master key. We then defined 4 criterions for qualified OWDCA (q-OWDCA) and proved that systems based on the above scheme using q-OWDCA would fulfill these prerequisites. We designed some q-OWDCAs and constructed typical cryptosystems, demonstrating a universal strategy to realize information security in large complex systems using a single master key. Our work may solve the fundamental problem in symmetric cryptography.
Sociocentric SNA on Fuzzy Graph Social Network Model
Authors: Rani Poonam , Tayal Devendra K. , Bhatia M.P.S.
Published: October 2021

The paper presents a scalable and generalized approach to social network analysis using fuzzy graph theory. In this, we propose an intelligent sociocentric approach that calculates the degree of potential relationship of a social network of finite size, by proposing a fuzzy graph social network model. It takes into account social entity functional and relational attributes simultaneously. In this, the degree of potential relationship of a social network is computed by using two steps. In the first step, the fuzzy pairwise relationship between all social entities is computed using the proposed fuzzy node activeness index parameter with their online and offline communication relationship parameters. In the second step, all fuzzy pairwise relationships that are calculated in the first step are further employed for the calculation of the degree of potential relationship of a social network using an astute function utilizing both weighted arithmetic and geometric means. Here two weights - betweenness and closeness centrality of an entity are assigned to the social entities. The paper performs the experimental work on a small size WhatsApp social network of undergraduate students in the university. The proposed degree of potential relationship can further be used as a global parameter to compare different social networks by incorporating both the functional as well as the relational attributes of social entities.
Understanding Rainfall Prediction Skill Over the Sahel in NMME Seasonal Forecast
Authors: Martín-Gómez Verónica , Mohino Elsa , Fonseca Belén Rodriguez - , Gomez Emilia Sanchez -
Published: October 2021

Sahelian rainfall presents large interannual variability which is partly controlled by the sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTa) over the eastern Mediterranean, equatorial Pacific and Atlantic oceans, making seasonal prediction of rainfall changes in Sahel potentially possible. However, it is not clear whether seasonal forecast models present skill to predict the Sahelian rainfall anomalies. Here, we consider the set of models from the North American Multi-model ensemble (NMME) and analyze their skill in predicting the Sahelian precipitation and address the sources of this skill.Results show that though the skill in predicting the Sahelian rainfall is generally low, it and can be mostly explained by a combination of how well models predict the SSTa in the Mediterranean and in the equatorial Pacific regions, and how well they simulate the teleconnections of these SSTa with Sahelian rainfall. Our results suggest that Sahelian rainfall skill is improved for those models in which the Pacific SST - Sahel rainfall teleconnection is correctly simulated. On the other hand, models present a good ability to reproduce the sign of the Mediterranean SSTa – Sahel teleconnection, albeit with underestimated amplitude due to an underestimation of the variance of the SSTa over this oceanic region. However, they fail to correctly predict the SSTa over this basin, which is the main reason for the poor Sahel rainfall skill in models. Therefore, results suggest models need to improve their ability to reproduce the variability of the SSTa over the Mediterranean as well as the teleconnections of Sahelian rainfall with Pacific and Mediterranean SSTa.
Optimization of Tool Geometric Parameters For a Small Fluteless Forming Tap (FFT)
Authors: Wu Ming-Chang , Jian Wei-Rong , Hsu Ling-Sheng , Tsao chung-chen
Published: October 2021

A small blind internal thread (SBIT) is used to firmly fasten some functional components to the cover of 3C electronic products. The small internal thread is made in a blind hole using a fluteless forming tap (FFT) that does not produce chips. However, the four geometric parameters (tool width (W), tooth root diameter (D2), front-end diameter (Df) and tooth angle (θ)) for the FFT affect the thread filling rate (f) and the minimum torque (T) for the tapping process. This study reports a Box-Behnken design (BBD) using DEFORM-3D (finite element model) and MINITAB (regression analysis) software to tap 7075-T6 aluminum alloy using a small FFT to achieve a repeatable thread filling rate and minimum torque. The experimental results show that the BBD accurately predicts and simulate the thread filling rate for tapping 7075-T6 aluminum alloy. The modelling software and the experimental design for this study can be used to optimize the design of tools that are used in industrial production.
ANALYSIS OF THE PRE-INJECTION CONFIGURATION IN A MARINE ENGINE THROUGH SEVERAL MCDM TECHNIQUES
Authors:   University of Coruña, Spain, Rodríguez Carlos Gervasio , Lamas María Isabel , Rodríguez Juan de Dios , Caccia Claudio ,   Politecnico di Milano, Italy
Published: October 2021

The present manuscript describes a computational model employed to characterize the performance and emissions of a commercial marine diesel engine. This model analyzes several pre-injection parameters, such as starting instant, quantity, and duration. The goal is to reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx), as well as its effect on emissions and consumption. Since some of the parameters considered have opposite effects on the results, the present work proposes a MCDM (Multiple-Criteria Decision Making) methodology to determine the most adequate pre-injection configuration. An important issue in MCDM models is the data normalization process. This operation is necessary to convert the available data into a non-dimensional common scale, thus allowing ranking and rating alternatives. It is important to select a suitable normalization technique, and several methods exist in the literature. This work considers five well-known normalization procedures: linear max, linear max-min, linear sum, vector, and logarithmic normalization. As to the solution technique, the study considers three MCDM models: WSM (Weighted Sum Method), WPM (Weighted Product Method) and TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution). The linear max, linear sum, vector, and logarithmic normalization procedures brought the same result: -22º CA ATDC pre-injection starting instant, 25% pre-injection quantity and 1-2º CA pre-injection duration. Nevertheless, the linear max min normalization procedure provided a result, which is different from the others and not recommended.
Theory of Andreev blockade in a double quantum dot with a superconducting lead
Authors: Pekker David , Zhang Po , Frolov Sergey
Published: October 2021

A normal metal source reservoir can load two electrons onto a double
quantum dot in the spin-triplet configuration. We show that if the drain
lead of the dot is a spin-singlet superconductor, these electrons cannot
form a Cooper pair and are blockaded on the double dot. We call this
phenomenon Andreev blockade because it arises due to suppressed Andreev
reflections. We identify transport characteristics unique to Andreev
blockade. Most significantly, it occurs for any occupation of the dot
adjacent to the superconductor, in contrast with the well-studied Pauli
blockade which requires odd occupations. Andreev blockade is lifted if
quasiparticles are allowed to enter the superconducting lead, but it
should be observable in the hard gap superconductor-semiconductor
devices. A recent experiment tests this model and finds support for
several predictions made here [P. Zhang, H. Wu, J. Chen, S. A. Khan, P.
Krogstrup, D. Pekker, and S. M. Frolov, arXiv:2102.03283 (2021)].
Andreev blockade should be considered in the design of topological
quantum circuits, hybrid quantum bits and quantum emulators.
An experimental study on the determination of dispersion coefficient in layered soils
Authors: Mahdipanah Hamed , Tashakori Askari , Emamgholizadeh Samad , Maroufpoor Eisa
Published: October 2021

Dispersivity is a measurable parameter in soil porous media that is used for studying the transport of contaminants to groundwater. The value of this parameter depends on various factors, including the kind of porous media (homogeneous or heterogeneous), flow velocity, initial contaminant concentration, travel distance, and sampling method. A physical model with dimensions of 0.10 m in width, 0.80 m in height, and 1.10 m in length was constructed to investigate the effects of these parameters on the dispersivity value. The stratified soil used consisted of three 20-cm-thick layers containing fine-grained, medium-grained, and coarse-grained soil. Sodium chloride solutions with electrical conductivity values of 10, 14, and 19 dS/m were used as the contaminants. Flow was forced through the layered heterogeneous soils at three discharge velocities of 17.58, 22.02, and 26.18 × 10−5 m/s. The point and mixed sampling methods were used. The results indicated that the soil dispersivity values in layered heterogeneous soils and homogeneous soil were influenced by contaminant concentration, flow velocity, and travel distance. Moreover, the dispersivity values obtained by point sampling were lower than those obtained using the mixed sampling method, and the mean dispersivity value in the layered heterogeneous soils was lower than that of the homogeneous soil.
Evaluating regional agricultural water resources system resilience and analyzing driving factors in the Hongxinglong Administration
Authors: Zhao Dan , Liu Dong , Wang Qiumei , Li Qiuyuan , Liang Xu
Published: October 2021

A Projection Pursuit Classification (PPC) model optimized by the Cat Swarm Optimization algorithm (CSO-PPC) was proposed to evaluate system resilience in the Hongxinglong Administration of Heilongjiang Province, China. The driving forces behind resilience were analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). CSO-PPC was used to evaluate resilience for the 12 farms in the Hongxinglong Administration, and PCA was applied to select the key factors driving their resilience. Results showed that the key factors were per capita water, unit area grain yield, application of fertilizer per unit cultivated area and the proportion of cultivated land, which were closely related to human production and planting area. Overall water resources system resilience had improved by 2011 compared to 2005. Specifically, water resources system resilience grades for the 12 farms were divided into five levels from inferior to superior, i.e. I to V. After six years of development, the resilience of eight farms had improved. Farm Youyi and Farm 853 were upgraded from inferior level II to the best level V. However, according to the data, four farms still had low resilience that had not improved in recent years. Further results showed that the driving forces decreased from 1998 to 2003 and increased from 2003 to 2011.
Reliability-based optimization of water distribution networks
Authors: Palod Nikita , Prasad Vishnu , Khare Ruchi
Published: October 2021

The water distribution system serves as a basic necessity for society. Due to its large size and involvement of various components, it is one of the most expensive civil infrastructures and thus demands optimization. Much work has been done to reduce the distribution system cost. However, with only one objective, the obtained solutions may not be practical to implement. Thus, improving cost along with the efficiency of the network is the demand of the hour. The present work introduces a unique parameter-less methodology for generating Pareto fronts without involving the concept of non-dominance. The methodology incorporates the Jaya optimization model for a bi-objective problem, one being the reduction in network cost and the other improving the reliability index of the network. The efficiency of the proposed work is analyzed for three different benchmark problems. The Jaya technique is found to be very efficient and fast when compared with the other evolutionary technique applied for the same networks. The parameter-less nature of the Jaya technique smooths the process to a very large extent as no synchronization of algorithm parameters is required.
Hydrothermal synthesis of magnetic nano-CoFe2O4 catalyst and its enhanced degradation of amoxicillin by activated permonosulfate
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Wang Hongwei , Zhang Guozhen , Zhou Tianhong , Wu Fuping
Published: October 2021

Advanced oxidation process (AOP) has attracted widespread attention because it can effectively remove antibiotics in water, but its practical engineering application is limited by the problems of the low efficiency and difficult recovery of the catalyst. In the study, nano-spinel CoFe2O4 was prepared by hydrothermal method and served as the peroxymonosulfate (PMS) catalyst to degrade antibiotic amoxicillin (AMX). The reaction parameters such as CoFe2O4 dosage, AMX concentration, and initial pH value were also optimized. The reaction mechanism was proposed through free radical capture experiment and possible degradation pathway analysis. In addition, the magnetic recovery performance and stability of the catalyst were evaluated. Results showed that 85.5% of AMX could be removed within 90 min at optimal conditions. Sulfate radicals and hydroxyl radicals were the active species for AMX degradation. Moreover, the catalyst showed excellent magnetism and stability in the cycle experiment, which has great potential in the AOP treatment of antibiotic polluted wastewater.
The Problem of Ensuring Representative Samples when Modeling the Market Value in the Regional Real Estate Market
Authors: Berdnikova V. N.
Published: October 2021

The article describes the problem of the lack of a universal adequate method for achieving the representativeness of a sample of real estate objects when modeling their market value.

The purpose of the work is to develop a methodology for creating a representative sample of real estate objects. This method can be used by specialists when working with inactive real estate markets in small cities and settlements. On the example of the market of land plots for individual housing in several cities of the Krasnodar krai, the analysis of the features of ensuring representativeness is carried out. There are opportunities and limitations of various tools for forming a representative sample.

Materials and methods. When preparing the paper, the author studied the experience of forming representative samples accumulated by Russian and foreign scientists, considered in detail theoretical and practical approaches to analyzing the quality of the general set of market real estate objects. The methodology proposed in the article was tested on the example of the real estate market of the cities of Krasnodar, Goryachy Klyuch, Armavir. Тhe author used cartographic data, information from specialized portals of the real estate market and from the unified state register of rights. To achieve the objective, theoretical methods (comparative analysis, synthesis, generalization, analogy) and modelling were used.

The main result of the paper is a reasonable method of radial circles, which allows you to select high-quality objects in a sample. Such land plots according to a certain significant price-forming factor in the city under consideration structurally correspond to the plots registered in the unified state real estate register. It is important to establish the conditions under which the sample becomes representative of the pricing factor associated with the location of the object. Тhe analytical material, stages and methods of selecting units in the sample presented in the article are of interest for the real estate researchers, analysts and experts, practitioners of state budgetary institutions engaged in state cadastral valuation.

Conclusion. The method of radial circles can be further developed and used for other price-forming factors when modeling the market value of real estate.
Moçambique na Rota do Jornalismo de Viagens
Authors: Oliveira Madalena
Published: October 2021

A intensificação da circulação de pessoas depois da Revolução Industrial, quer por razões de trabalho quer por motivações de lazer, criou uma espécie de “inquietação geográfica”, um interesse generalizado por lugares aparentemente improváveis e uma especial atração por géneros narrativos que cartografam a experiência da viagem. As crónicas e notas de viajantes publicadas pela imprensa especialmente a partir do século XIX eram já um sinal evidente de que a viagem não é apenas a deslocação física entre territórios; é o intercâmbio com outras latitudes afetivas, o confronto com coordenadas sociais e culturais diversas e a expedição que atravessa as fronteiras da identidade. Ir lá e voltar para contar aos outros é, sob todas as formas, a vocação original do jornalismo. No entanto, o seu desenvolvimento profissional e articulação com a segmentação de mercados inspirou a consagração de uma forma especializada de produzir informação de interesse turístico. Apesar de, por vezes, se confundir com finalidades comerciais, o jornalismo especializado em viagens é hoje uma modalidade de jornalismo cultural, menos orientada para a notícia urgente ou para a informação internacional e mais para uma certa construção de representações do mundo que inspirem a descoberta e a exploração de lugares, de gentes, de história e do património. Por razões de proximidade histórica e linguística, pela sua riqueza natural e paisagística e pela sua diversidade cultural, Moçambique também está na rota do jornalismo de viagens de passaporte português. Destino menos frequente que o Brasil, e com atrações eventualmente menos evidentes que as do vasto território brasileiro, o extremo sudeste do continente africano também está no radar dos relatos jornalísticos de viagens. Mas como? Que representações são construídas sobre este país e que atrativos, do ponto de vista da informação, são considerados relevantes? Que imaginário tem, afinal, construído o jornalismo de viagens português sobre o território moçambicano? São estas as questões que orientam, neste texto, uma leitura de trabalhos publicados no suplemento Fugas do jornal Público . O objetivo é identificar os modos de olhar, os eventuais lugares comuns, as modulações literárias que, caracterizando o jornalismo de viagens em geral, se constituem, no caso particular de Moçambique, como uma narrativa intercultural.
Turismo Cultural, Gestão e Trabalho Artesanal Oleiro no Sul de Goiás (Brasil)
Authors: Santos Jean Carlos Vieira
Published: October 2021

O propósito norteador deste artigo é trazer algumas reflexões sobre a produção, a gestão e o trabalho artesanal oleiro, o desenvolvimento e a promoção dessa arte popular como componente cultural de cidades turísticas da mesorregião sul do estado de Goiás (Brasil). Hoje é possível afirmar, explicitamente, que a arte popular oleira do sul de Goiás é, por direito próprio, um símbolo vivo da história e tradição de sujeitos que desenvolvem (e desenvolveram) seus modos de vida contemporâneos em municípios como Caldas Novas, Rio Quente, Lagoa Santa e São Simão, ao manter raízes, conteúdos e densidades de um saber fazer popular com o barro que ainda se revela como importante para a identidade cultural e social de suas populações. A partir da ideia central apresentada, é possível afirmar que existem lacunas de estudos que abranjam, a nível nacional e regional, o levantamento e a caracterização de algumas abordagens sobre a olaria das cidades turísticas do interior de Goiás e sua relação de existência associada às atividades de turismo cultural. Nesse contexto, a análise documental e bibliográfica apresentada neste artigo está orientada para o levantamento que caracterize as olarias e turismo cultural, bem como a arte popular e a enorme força artística com o barro. Este estudo conta, ainda, com o trabalho de campo que proporciona uma melhor compreensão das dinâmicas espaciais da escala de análise. É importante ressaltar que esta investigação se dá a partir do método qualitativo, tendo o trabalho oleiro como representante da arte popular em cidades turísticas carentes de valorização do seu potencial cultural.
Propósito e Abordagem na Pesquisa Transdisciplinar do Campo do Património Cultural
Authors: Lopes Armando Jorge
Published: October 2021

O presente artigo põe o enfoque em dois parâmetros científicos, o propósito e a abordagem na pesquisa, cuja clarificação proporciona enquadramentos importantes e úteis para o tratamento de temáticas inerentes à pesquisa ou para a comparação e discussão de diferentes projectos de investigação. Argumento que estes dois parâmetros fornecem os pilares metateóricos nos quais assenta qualquer pesquisa e, no caso vertente, a que envolve o património cultural. Os dois parâmetros ocupam-se do nível de conceptualização da pesquisa, o que implica chegar a decisões sobre o propósito a que a pesquisa se destina e decisões sobre a abordagem à temática a investigar. Os restantes dois parâmetros, que não são objecto deste trabalho, têm a ver com o nível operacional ou de concretização dessas decisões conceptuais sobre o propósito e a abordagem à pesquisa, ou por outras palavras, sobre a sua operacionalização em forma do design da pesquisa e metodologia (controlo e manipulação da pesquisa) e referente aos dados, sua recolha e análise. Neste texto, considera-se que a cultura é um super-sistema constituído por sistemas que interagem entre si, o que nos permite captar a complexidade que envolve a investigação de uma temática, ao mesmo tempo que compreendemos como abordar a pesquisa, ora olhando para um quadro mais amplo, ora olhando para uma das suas partes.