bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of planting date and irrigation strategy for sustainable cotton production
Authors: Fan Hongjian , Xue Lu , Ma Hao
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The study aims to evaluate the impact of climatological factors on rice yield and methane emissions in Southern Shaanxi’s rice cultivation areas, with the goal of informing effective Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) strategies.

Methods

A three-year longitudinal analysis (2017-2019) was conducted, examining the correlation between rice productivity and weather conditions within the agricultural ecosystem. Data on rice yields and methane emissions were collected and analyzed to determine patterns and trends.

Results

Significant correlations were identified between rice yield and weather conditions, with favorable weather for rice growth correlating with higher methane emissions. Methane emissions were particularly high during the vegetative and reproductive stages of rice growth, peaking 60 to 90 days after transplanting. Average emissions for this period were 245.2±80.1 kg CH4 ha-1 in 2017, 274.2±93.9 kg CH4 ha-1 in 2018, and 339.6±50.3 kg CH4 ha-1 in 2019. Total cumulative methane emissions over the entire rice cultivation period were 635.0±177.2 kg CH4 ha-1 in 2017, 661.2±239.2 kg CH4 ha-1 in 2018, and 679.4±205.4 kg CH4 ha-1 in 2019, with no statistically significant interannual differences.

Discussion

The findings highlight the need to balance the goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions for climate change mitigation with the enhancement of rice yield within CSA practices. The organic link between rice productivity and methane emissions under varying weather conditions suggests that an integrated approach to CSA is essential, considering climate adaptability, productivity, and greenhouse gas reduction. The study’s results contribute to a deeper scientific understanding of local agricultural ecosystems and provide a basis for developing management techniques for CSA.

Conclusion

An integrated approach to CSA that takes into account the interplay between rice yield, methane emissions, and climatological factors is crucial for achieving sustainable agricultural practices in Southern Shaanxi. The study’s insights can guide the development of strategies that enhance both rice productivity and environmental sustainability.
A multi-scale semi-mechanistic CK/PD model for CAR T-cell therapy
Authors: Minucci Sarah , Gruver Scott , Subramanian Kalyanasundaram , Renardy Marissa
Published: August 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cell therapy has shown remarkable success in treating various leukemias and lymphomas. Cellular kinetic (CK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) behavior of CAR T cell therapy is distinct from other therapies due to its living nature. CAR T CK is typically characterized by an exponential expansion driven by target binding, fast initial decline (contraction), and slow long-term decline (persistence). Due to the dependence of CK on target binding, CK and PD of CAR T therapies are inherently and bidirectionally linked. In this work, we develop a semi-mechanistic model of CAR T CK/PD, incorporating molecular-scale binding, T cell dynamics with multiple phenotypes, and tumor growth and killing. We calibrate this model to published CK and PD data for a CD19-targeting CAR T cell therapy. Using sensitivity analysis, we explore variability in response due to patient- and drug-specific properties. We further explore the impact of tumor characteristics on CAR T-cell expansion and efficacy through individual- and population-level parameter scans.
Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2, epidermal growth factor receptor, cyclooxygenase-2, survivin, E-cadherin and Ki-67 in canine nasal carcinomas and sarcomas – a pilot study
Authors: Pauly Ljuba Anna Maria , Junginger Johannes , Oechtering Gerhard Ulrich , Hewicker-Trautwein Marion , Rösch Sarah
Published: August 2024

Background

Malignant (intra-) nasal tumors (NTs) are the most common cause of chronic nasal discharge in dogs. Besides radiation therapy, palliative therapy is necessary in some dogs. Therefore, studies on receptor expression have supported the utility of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) in dogs with nasal carcinomas. However, studies on receptor expression in nasal sarcomas are lacking.

Materials and methods

This study evaluated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), cyclooxigenase-2 (COX-2), Ki-67, survivin and E-cadherin in nasal carcinomas and sarcomas and compared it with tumor (T) categories based on computed tomography (CT).

Results

In 26 dogs with NTs, cross sectional imaging and upper airway endoscopy with guided biopsy collection were performed, followed by histopathological examination of NTs, revealing 19 epithelial and 7 mesenchymal tumors. While EGFR and E-cadherin were only expressed by carcinomas, the following markers were expressed by both carcinomas and sarcomas without significant differences between tumor types and T-categories: VEGFR-2 (carcinomas and sarcomas 100%), COX-2 (carcinomas 63%, sarcomas 57%), survivin (carcinomas 100%, sarcomas 86%) and Ki-67 (median expression of 28.5% in carcinomas and 17.3% in sarcomas).

Conclusion

Based on similarities in marker expression between canine carcinomas and sarcomas, clinical studies should further elucidate the use of TKI or COX-2 inhibitors as additional therapy in dogs with nasal sarcomas.
Contribution of veterinary sector to antimicrobial resistance in One Health compendium: an insight from available Indian evidence
Authors: Chakraborty Debjit , Debnath Falguni , Giri Sandip , Saha Shatabdi , Pyne Soume , Chakraverty Raja , Majumdar Agniva , Deb Alok Kumar , Bhatia Rajesh , Dutta Shanta
Published: August 2024

The application of antibiotics in the poultry and veterinary sectors is very common practice in India. Owing to the seriousness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the present study has illustrated the overall scenario of AMR in the poultry and veterinary sectors in India through an in-depth scoping review and key informant interview (KII). In the poultry sector, most of the studies reviewed have reported resistant bacteria isolated from chicken meat, eggs, cloacal swabs, and fecal samples, and only a few have reported the presence of resistant bacteria in and around the environment of poultry farms. The major resistant bacteria that have been reported are E. coli, Salmonella spp., S. aureus, Campylobacter jejuni, and K. pneumoniae. These bacterial isolates exhibited resistance to various antibiotics, such as azithromycin (21.43%), tetracycline (11.30–100%), chloramphenicol (4.76–100%), erythromycin (75–83.33%), ciprofloxacin (5.7–100%), gentamicin (17–100%), amikacin (4.76%), cotrimoxazole (42.2–60%), trimethoprim (89.4%), ceftriaxone (80%), and cefotaxime (14.29–70%). Like the poultry sector, different antibiotics are also used for treating clinical and subclinical bovine mastitis, which is one of the major problems plaguing the dairy sector. Several AMR bacterial strains, such as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, have been reported by many researchers and showed resistance against tetracycline (74%), oxytetracycline (47.37%), ciprofloxacin (51%), streptomycin (57.89%), cephalosporin (100%), and trimethoprim (70%). The KIIs have revealed several reasons behind these AMR scenarios, of which the growing need for the production of food animals and their products with inadequate infrastructure and a lack of proper knowledge on farm management among the farmers are the major ones. Though several government legislations and policies have been laid down, proper implementation of these policies, strict surveillance on antibiotic application in the poultry and veterinary sectors, awareness generation among farmers, and infrastructure development can help minimize the development and transmission of AMR bacteria within and from these sectors.
The first outbreak of feline panleukopenia virus infection in captive Pallas’s cats in Xining Wildlife Park
Authors: Wei Jingjie , Shi Yuqi , Wang Xiaofei , He Shunfu , Qi Xinzhang , Lu Rong , Gao Yuhang , Liu ZiChen , Wang Yingyun , Wu Yuanheng , Jin Yipeng
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In August 2021, an outbreak of Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) was observed in four 3-month-old Pallas’ cats at Xining Wildlife Park. Despite timely intervention, the Pallas’cat cubs continued to experience clinical symptoms including diarrhea, seizures, and decreased white blood cell count, and all four cats died.

Methods

FPV clinical suspicions were initially confirmed by positive Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing. Pathological and immunohistochemical examinations (IHC) were performed on some organs, and the results showed that, encephalitis, viral enteritis, and splenitis occurred.

Results

The virus replicates extensively in the cytoplasm of lymphocytes and macrophages in the lamina propria of the small intestine mucosa. A strain of FPV was successfully isolated and culture in CRFK cells. Through molecular identification, sequence analysis, and phylogenetic analysis of the VP2 gene in this strain, we have revealed the presence of a novel synonymous mutation. From July to December 2021, surveillance on stray cats and susceptible wildlife at Xining Wildlife Park indicated widespread FPV transmission.

Discussion

The findings highlight the urgent need for ongoing epidemiological monitoring and active disinfection measures to prevent FPV transmission in wildlife parks.
Runway Safety Assistant Foreseeing Excursions: Calculating Means
Authors: Alogdianakis Georgios , Katsidimas Ioannis , Kotzakolios Athanasios , Plioutsias Anastasios , Kostopoulos Vassilis
Published: August 2024

Runway Safety Assistant Foreseeing Excursions (RUNSAFE) is a complete embedded system solution, that predicts a potential runway overrun of a civil aviation aircraft during takeoff and landing. This work examines the feasibility of such a system, through the algorithms and computations that predict the overruns. The system executes both static and dynamic calculations, with the former being dependent on and the latter independent to the user’s inputs. Their outcomes and the runway’s length are compared in real time to assess if the process will end up in an overrun. All inputs are specifically selected to either be available to the pilots or be retrieved from the existing avionics systems of the cockpit. A performance evaluation is conducted on both static and dynamic calculations, and metrics unveil the accuracy of the predictions and the time needed to converge to a reliable result. The solution is adapted for a Boeing 737-800 aircraft with CFM56-7B engines, but the calculations also apply for similar aircraft equipped with tricycle landing gear and turbofan engines, namely the whole Boeing 737 family, the Airbus A320 family, etc. The system is aligned with current standards and certification specifications, where applicable.
Effect of (Ba1/3Nb2/3)4+ Substitution on Microstructure, Bonding Properties and Microwave Dielectric Properties of Ce2Zr3(MoO4)9 Ceramics
Authors: Gao Huamin , Xu Xiangyu , Liu Xinwei , Zhang Xiaoyu , Li Mingling , Du Jialun , Wu Haitao
Published: August 2024

In this study, Ce2[Zr1−x(Ba1/3Nb2/3)x]3(MoO4)9 (0.02 ≤ x ≤ 0.1, CZ1−xNx) ceramics were sintered at 600 °C and 700 °C using the traditional solid-state method. An analysis conducted through XRD and Rietveld refinement confirmed that all the CZ1−xNx ceramics displayed a single phase with a trigonal structure (space group R-3c). The observed increases in cell volume with increasing x values indicate the successful substitution of (Ba1/3Nb2/3)4+. The high densification of the synthesized phase was validated by the density and SEM results. Additionally, the P-V-L theory demonstrates a strong correlation between the Ce-O bond and εr, as well as τf, and between the Mo-O bond and Q×f. Notably, the CZ0.98N0.02 ceramics demonstrated superior performance at 675 °C, exhibiting εr = 10.41, Q×f = 53,296 GHz, and τf = −23.45 ppm/°C. Finally, leveraging CZ0.98N0.02 ceramics as substrate materials enabled the design of a patch antenna suitable for the 5G communication band, demonstrating its significant potential in this field.
Children with Cerebral Palsy and Their Parents Have Different Experiences of Pain Management: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Rinde Elisabeth Rønning , Anderzén-Carlsson Agneta , Jahnsen Reidun Birgitta , Andersen Randi Dovland
Published: August 2024

Aim: The aim of this study is to explore and compare experiences of pain management strategies for children with CP from the perspectives of children themselves and their parents. Methods: A secondary inductive analysis of previously collected qualitative data was performed. Fourteen children with CP and one parent of each child were interviewed separately about the management of the child’s pain. A dyadic data analysis was used to compare parents’ and children’s perspectives. Findings: The main thematic categories of pain management identified were self-care, psychological strategies, physical interventions and professional treatment. Experiences described by the child and parent differed within all participating dyads but to different degrees. On a group level, children described more use of psychological strategies than parents did. Parents described more professional treatment strategies. Conclusions: Parents and children described different experiences of pain management strategies, and both perspectives are needed to understand the child’s situation.
Differential Impact of WM Load on Attention in Young Adults Versus Children and Adolescents
Authors: Park Hyojin , Kim So-Yeon
Published: August 2024

Background: This study aimed to examine how concurrent working memory (WM) loads affect selective attention, and to explore developmental differences between young adults and children/adolescents aged 10 to 14 years. Methods: We employed a modified Stroop task with verbal or spatial WM loads to assess their impact on attention. Results: In adults, we found increased Stroop effects when WM load overlapped with target processing and decreased Stroop effects when WM load overlapped with distractor processing. Conversely, in children/adolescents, WM loads did not significantly impact target or distractor processing, indicating no change in Stroop effects under dual-task conditions. Interestingly, results from the correlational analyses revealed that as participants’ ages increase, the interference effect under the WM load that shares resources with distractor processing in the attention task decreases. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the interaction between attention and WM differs across developmental stages. While adults showed distinctive effects of concurrent WM loads on attention processing depending on the cognitive resources utilized, children/adolescents failed to show the interaction between the two cognitive systems. Furthermore, a significant relationship between age and the effects of WM load on attention was observed, providing insights into the development of the interaction between WM and attention.
Inhibitory Effects of Naringenin on LPS-Induced Skin Inflammation by NF-κB Regulation in Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Choy Yoon-Jung , Kim Gyu-Ri , Baik Hyung-ui
Published: August 2024

Flavonoids are important natural compounds characterized by their extensive biological activities. Citrus flavonoids represent a significant segment of the broader flavonoid category. Naringenin, an integral part of this series, is recognized for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In addition, considering the lack of existing research on naringenin’s potential effectiveness and intracellular mechanisms of action in skin-related applications, especially as a cosmetic ingredient, this study aimed to explore naringenin’s role in reducing the fundamental generation of reactive oxygen species. This was achieved by examining its inhibitory effects on the expression levels of NADPH oxidase and iNOS, ultimately leading to a reduction in NO production. This research examined the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities of naringenin by employing a cellular senescence model of LPS-induced HDFs. The evaluation of naringenin’s efficacy was validated through several investigative procedures, including the NF-κB luciferase assay, ELISA assay, and qRT-PCR. To verify the anti-inflammatory effectiveness of naringenin, we measured the responsive elements of NF-κB using a luciferase reporter assay. This assessment revealed that naringenin could decrease the concentration of genes activated by NF-κB. Moreover, we found that naringenin inhibited the transcriptional expression of known NF-κB-regulated inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8. In addition, results from the qRT-PCR analysis indicated that naringenin facilitated a reduction in iNOS expression. Based on the data gathered and analyzed in this study, it can be conclusively inferred that naringenin possesses promising potential as a cosmetic ingredient, offering both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Study of a Coupled Ψ–Liouville–Riemann Fractional Differential System Characterized by Mixed Boundary Conditions
Authors: Tellab Brahim , Amara Abdelkader , Mezabia Mohammed El-Hadi , Zennir Khaled , Alkhalifa Loay
Published: August 2024

This research is concerned with the existence and uniqueness of solutions for a coupled system of Ψ–Riemann–Liouville fractional differential equations. To achieve this objective, we establish a set of necessary conditions by formulating the problem as an integral equation and utilizing well-known fixed-point theorems. By employing these mathematical tools, we demonstrate the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the proposed system. Additionally, to illustrate the practical implications of our findings, we provide several examples that showcase the main results obtained in this study.
Oleogel Systems for Chocolate Production: A Systematic Review
Authors: Valdivia-Culqui Jheniffer E. , Maicelo-Quintana Jorge L. , Cayo-Colca Ilse S. , Medina-Mendoza Marleni , Castro-Alayo Efraín M. , Balcázar-Zumaeta César R.
Published: August 2024

In response to the growing demand for healthier food options, this review explores advances in oleogel systems as an innovative solution to reduce saturated fats in chocolates. Although appreciated for its flavor and texture, chocolate is high in calories, mainly due to cocoa butter (CB), which is rich in saturated fats. Oleogels, three-dimensional structures formed by structuring agents in edible oils, stand out in terms of mimicking saturated fats’ physical and sensory properties without compromising the quality of chocolate. This study reviews how oleogels could improve chocolate’s stability and sensory quality, exploring the potential of pectin-rich agro-industrial by-products as sustainable alternatives. It also explores the need for physicochemical evaluations of both oleogel and oleogel-based chocolate.
Challenges of Exhibiting Ethnographic Costumes: Interinstitutional Project of Replacing Display Mannequins in Ethnographic Museum of Dubrovnik
Authors: Jemo Danijela , Margaretić Barbara , Kodrič Kesovia Mateo Miguel
Published: August 2024

The Ethnographic Museum in Dubrovnik holds an extensive textile collection which includes a number of dresses and costumes from Croatia and neighbouring countries. Until recently, the costumes were displayed on mannequins created by the academic artist Zvonimir Lončarić (1927–2004). His sculptures are expressive forms made of terracotta, fibreglass, wood, metal, acrylic paint and other materials chosen for their visual appeal. Due to their importance, the museum considered the mannequins to be protected works of art in the permanent exhibition; however, they had a harmful effect on the costumes displayed. In 2018, after completing a series of conservation–restoration projects within the collection, it was decided to replace the existing mounts with new, museum-quality mannequins. Two project-based learning workshops were organised, led by a team of textile conservators from the University of Dubrovnik and the Croatian Conservation Institute, in collaboration with the curator of the Ethnographic Museum. This case study highlights the challenges of exhibiting ethnographic costumes by discussing past presentation methods and how new solutions have been implemented in line with the modern conservation–restoration profession. The new solutions take into consideration ethics, decision-making processes, and an understanding of contemporary materials and methodology.
Alterations in the Growth Responses of Pelargonium × hortorum Irrigated with Microalgae Production Wastewater
Authors: Rápalo-Cruz Alejandro , Gómez-Serrano Cintia , González-López Cynthia Victoria , Hassanpouraghdam Mohammad Bagher , Jiménez-Becker Silvia
Published: August 2024

The utilization of treated wastewater can enhance the crops’ irrigation efficacy by offering an extra source of water and nutrients for agricultural purposes. This methodology helps alleviate the pressure on conventional water resources and can be a sustainable strategy to address the challenges of water scarcity. However, it is essential to ensure that wastewater is properly treated to meet quality and safety standards before its application to agricultural crops. This study focuses on exploring the reuse of wastewater from microalgae production and its impact on Pelargonium × hortorum growth during two seasons (autumn and spring). The established treatments were as follows: tap water (control 1); 100% IW—inlet wastewater (control 2); 100% OW—outlet from the reactor; 75% OW + 25% W—75% outlet from the reactor and 25% tap water; and 50% OW + 50%W—50% outlet from the reactor and 50% tap water. Irrigation with wastewater in autumn did not have a significant negative effect (p > 0.05) on plant height, plant diameter, leaf dry weight, roots, or total dry weight, and it was comparable to the control in all applied percentages. On the other hand, wastewater irrigation during spring had a meaningful positive (p < 0.05) impact on plant growth compared to the control. These wastewater resources have a high concentration of nutrients, making them a valuable source of essential and/or beneficial elements. The levels of nutrients such as NO3− range from 144.08 ppm to 82.10 ppm, PO43− ranges from 14.14 ppm to 7.11 ppm, and K+ ranges from 36.83 ppm to 29.71 ppm. Therefore, the obtained results support the viability and effectiveness of using wastewater after microalgae production in agriculture to reduce water demand, mitigate water pollution, and substitute chemical fertilizer input, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices. These results, with more detailed evaluations, would be applicable to other related plant species and are even applicable to the commercial production sectors.
Storing Keitt Mangoes Using Eco-Friendly Treatments
Authors: Saif Magdi , Imbaby Samar , Ali Mohamed
Published: August 2024

The recent global trend aims to limit the use of chemicals in all aspects of our lives, necessitating research into the use of plant extracts and ultraviolet light as eco-friendly treatments to improve mango fruit storage. The literature did not introduce studies on plant extracts as coating materials for mango fruit storage. Although ginger, lemon, and green tea were utilized individually as edible coatings for some fruits, their combination in a single solution is not evaluated on mango fruits. To preserve the quality of Keitt mango fruit against decay during storage, fruits were treated with plant extracts (a mixture of ginger, lemon, and green tea), 50 g L−1 for each of them, and ultraviolet (UV) light, 250 nm for 5 min, either alone or in combination then stored at 22 °C or 13 °C. Data showed that the mixture of plant extracts treatment followed by the combination of plant extracts and UV treatment then UV treatments resulted in a decrease in weight loss and soluble solid contents (SSCs) compared to the control while reducing the decrease in firmness, acidity, vitamin C (Vit C), and phenols compared to the control. Mangoes stored at 22 °C reached 4 weeks with good quality while achieving 8 weeks at 13 °C.
Advancement in the Modeling and Design of Composite Pressure Vessels for Hydrogen Storage: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bouhala Lyazid , Karatrantos Argyrios , Reinhardt Heiner , Schramm Norbert , Akin Beril , Rauscher Alexander , Mauersberger Anton , Taşkıran Senagül Tunca , Ulaşlı Muhammed Erdal , Aktaş Engin , Tanoglu Metin
Published: August 2024

The industrial and technological sectors are pushing the boundaries to develop a new class of high-pressure vessels for hydrogen storage that aim to improve durability and and endure harsh operating conditions. This review serves as a strategic foundation for the integration of hydrogen tanks into transport applications while also proposing innovative approaches to designing high-performance composite tanks. The goal is to offer optimized, safe, and cost-effective solutions for the next generation of high-pressure vessels, contributing significantly to energy security through technological advancements. Additionally, the review deepens our understanding of the relationship between microscopic failure mechanisms and the initial failure of reinforced composites. The investigation will focus on the behavior and damaging processes of composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs). Moreover, the review summarizes relevant simulation models in conjunction with experimental work to predict the burst pressure and to continuously monitor the degree of structural weakening and fatigue lifetime of COPVs. Simultaneously, understanding the adverse effects of in-service applications is vital for maintaining structural health during the operational life cycle.
Asymmetric Impact of Active Management on the Performance of ESG Funds
Authors: Abou Tanos Barbara , Farooq Omar , Bouaddi Mohammed , Ahmed Neveen
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the asymmetric impact of fund active management style on the performance of ESG funds. Unlike conventional measures of synchronicity, we propose new measures that capture the asymmetric patterns in a fund’s management style in upside and downside market conditions. Our data includes 170 equity funds that are identified as socially responsible, with a period spanning from 2010 to 2022. Our proposed methodology allows us to capture the asymmetric patterns in the fund management styles under different market conditions while mitigating the challenge of outliers, which is crucial when assessing funds’ active management activities. We find that while ESG funds promote sustainability, their active management is only beneficial during periods of market downturns. Our results are robust after controlling for different funds characteristics, for several active management proxies, and across various model specifications. This paper thus provides crucial guidelines for fund managers since it shows that their success is greatly influenced by their time-varying skills and management style in changing market conditions. Our findings incentivize ESG fund managers to pursue information acquisition activities during market downturns, as these activities improve market informational efficiency while aligning with their sustainability goals.
Bayesian Model Selection for Addressing Cold-Start Problems in Partitioned Time Series Prediction
Authors: Yoo Jaeseong , Moon Jihoon
Published: August 2024

How to effectively predict outcomes when initial time series data are limited remains unclear. This study investigated the efficiency of Bayesian model selection to address the lack of initial data for time series analysis, particularly in cold-start scenarios—a common challenge in predictive modeling. We utilized a comprehensive approach that juxtaposed observational data against various candidate models through strategic partitioning. This method contrasted traditional reliance on distance measures like the L2 norm. Instead, it applied statistical tests to validate model efficacy. Notably, the introduction of an interactive visualization tool featuring a slide bar for setting significance levels marked a significant advancement over conventional p-value displays. Our results affirm that when observational data align with a candidate model, effective predictions are possible, albeit with necessary considerations of stationarity and potential structural breaks. These findings underscore the potential of Bayesian methods in predictive analytics, especially when initial data are scarce or incomplete. This research not only enhances our understanding of model selection dynamics but also sets the stage for future investigations into more refined predictive frameworks.
Supply–Demand Matching of Engineering Construction Materials in Complex Mountainous Areas Based on Complex Environment Two-Stage Stochastic Programing
Authors: Bao Liu , Zhang Peigen , Guo Ze , Wang Wanqi , Zhu Qing , Ding Yulin
Published: August 2024

Effective supply and demand matching for construction materials is a crucial challenge in large-scale railway projects, particularly in complex and hazardous environments. We propose a two-stage stochastic programing model that incorporates environmental uncertainties, such as natural disasters, into the supply chain optimization process. The first stage determines optimal locations and capacities for material supply points, while the second stage addresses material distribution under uncertain demand. We further enhance the model’s efficiency with Benders decomposition algorithm. The performance of our model is rigorously compared with existing optimization approaches, demonstrating its superior capability in handling environmental uncertainties and complex logistical scenarios. This study provides a novel framework for optimizing supply chains in challenging environments, offering significant improvements over traditional models in both adaptability and robustness.
Explicit Analysis for the Ground Reaction of a Circular Tunnel Excavated in Anisotropic Stress Fields Based on Hoek–Brown Failure Criterion
Authors: Lee Yu-Lin , Chen Chih-Sheng , Lee Chi-Min
Published: August 2024

The study aims to utilize the convergence–confinement method (CCM) by considering non-hydrostatic stress assumptions in the analysis of the surrounding rock in a circular tunnel. The rock mass properties should adhere to the criteria of the non-linear Hoek–Brown failure criterion. Through a thorough theoretical analysis approach, an analytical solution was derived to determine the stress and displacement induced by tunnel excavation, particularly in the elastic and plastic zones. This solution, applicable under anisotropic stress conditions, involves accounting for confinement loss incrementally for computational feasibility. The implementation of this analytical solution, facilitated by a straightforward spreadsheet, was validated against existing data to evaluate the impact of non-linear failure criteria on ground reaction behavior. The study scrutinizes the mechanical response at the tunnel’s inner curve and assesses stress–displacement distribution across the tunnel cross-section. A comparison between the proposed solution and published results demonstrates a consistent and promising correlation.
On Blow-Up and Explicit Soliton Solutions for Coupled Variable Coefficient Nonlinear Schrödinger Equations
Authors: Escorcia José M. , Suazo Erwin
Published: August 2024

This work is concerned with the study of explicit solutions for a generalized coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations (NLS) system with variable coefficients. Indeed, by employing similarity transformations, we show the existence of rogue wave and dark–bright soliton-like solutions for such a generalized NLS system, provided the coefficients satisfy a Riccati system. As a result of the multiparameter solution of the Riccati system, the nonlinear dynamics of the solution can be controlled. Finite-time singular solutions in the L∞ norm for the generalized coupled NLS system are presented explicitly. Finally, an n-dimensional transformation between a variable coefficient NLS coupled system and a constant coupled system coefficient is presented. Soliton and rogue wave solutions for this high-dimensional system are presented as well.
H-Nacci Sequence and Its Role in Virus Mutation
Authors: Alhazmi Muflih , Venchislas Rexma Sherine , Gnanamuthu Gerly Thaniel , Perumal Chellamani , Hilali Shreefa O. , Alsaeedi Mashaer , Natarajan Avinash , Gnanaprakasam Britto Antony Xavier
Published: August 2024

In this research, we proposed a new concept called as the H-Nacci sequence. The H-Nacci sequence (Fibonacci sequences of length h) is a collection of numbers developed from the coefficients of the generalized m-th Fibonacci equation. After that, we determined the golden ratio for each type of H-Nacci sequence, which also coincided with an existing Fibonacci sequence. As each Fibonacci sequence has a unique advantage, first of all, we have applied the H-Nacci sequence to the virus mutation process to show the key benefits of the H-Nacci sequence, and then we found the Fibonacci risk model to analyze the risk factor of each mutant virus using the H-Nacci sequence.
Modelling the Shortest Path for Inner Warehouse Travelling Using the Floyd–Warshall Algorithm
Authors: Nordin Noraimi Azlin Mohd , Shariff S. Sarifah Radiah , Supadi Siti Suzlin , Masudin Ilyas
Published: August 2024

Order picking is referred as a critical process of selecting items requested by a customer in a warehouse. Meeting the demand of every customer is the main objective in this area. Large warehouses pose a challenge since the order-picking process is slowed considerably by the lengthy time it takes to transport items across the warehouse. Throughout the study, the system is hoped to develop proper procedures in the order-picking process. In handling this scenario, the decision-makers need to take any possible action to ensure the warehouses can keep operating and meeting the requirements and satisfaction of the customers. Due to this, the study’s main objective is to determine whether the Floyd–Warshall algorithm or the dynamic programming method will give the most accurate shortest path and minimum travel distance for order pickers. Two data sets (nine nodes and nineteen nodes) are used to determine the optimal path and minimum travel distance for the order picker to meet and satisfy customer orders for the warehouse. The two models were modified and applied to address real-world case studies from the automotive manufacturing company in Malaysia. The results show a big difference between the total distance by 113.48% for 19 nodes. Through this finding, the company may choose which method suits their preferences. Concurrently, this study may also contribute to problem-solving issues in any warehouse operation with a similar procedure.
Generation of Millimeter Waves and Sub-Terahertz Waves Using a Two-Wavelength Tunable Laser for a Terahertz Wave Transceiver
Authors: Tomimura Yuga , Satou Akira , Kita Tomohiro
Published: August 2024

As global internet traffic continues to increase, technologies for generating high-frequency signals, such as sub-terahertz (sub-THz) bands, through photonics are gaining attention. In this study, we demonstrate the generation of millimeter waves at approximately 17 GHz and sub-THz waves at approximately 300 GHz by converting the frequency difference of a two-wavelength tunable laser, fabricated using silicon photonics, into an optical–electrical signal. This device is expected to be used as a compact and low power consumption, two-wavelength tunable light source for THz wave transceivers.
Study on Evaluation of the Virtual Saturated Vapor Pressure Model and Prediction of Adsorbed Gas Content in Deep Coalbed Methane
Authors: Peng Wenchun , Jia Tengfei , Zhang Songhang , Wu Jian , Chao Weiwei , Li Shilong , Liu Zizhen
Published: August 2024

Accurately predicting the adsorbed gas content in coal reservoirs is crucial for evaluating the gas content in deep coal seams. However, due to the significant variations in temperature and pressure conditions across different coal reservoirs, accurately assessing the adsorbed gas quantity presents challenges. Based on the adsorption potential theory, this paper proposes a prediction model of adsorbed gas that is applicable under various temperature and pressure conditions. The results indicate that the adsorbed gas content in deep coal reservoirs is influenced by a combination of temperature, pressure, and coal rank. The increase in pressure and coal rank enhances the inhibitory effect of temperature on methane adsorption. Meanwhile, there are significant differences in the results obtained from various virtual saturated vapor pressure models. Among them, the Amankwah model theoretically satisfies the uniqueness of the adsorption characteristic curve, with the optimal k values for different coal rank samples ranging between 2 and 9. In terms of predicting the adsorption gas, the performance of the models is ranked as follows: Amankwah model > Antonie model > Astakhov model > Dubinin model > Reid model. The Amankwah model exhibits the smallest average relative error and root mean square error. In addition, as burial depth increases, the influence of the pressure on methane adsorption decreases, while the significance of temperature increases, with the critical depth located around 1600 m. At depths shallower than the critical depth, adsorbed gas tends to preferentially accumulate and form reservoirs, which generally have lower commercial value. At depths deeper than the critical depth, free gas has the potential to form reservoirs. At this stage, gas reservoirs dominated by adsorbed gas start transitioning to those containing free gas. These findings are expected to deepen the understanding of deep coalbed methane and provide a scientific basis for exploration and development in the study area.
Spatial Correlation of Landscape Fragmentation and Ecological Sensitivity in China’s Giant Panda National Park and Surrounding Areas
Authors: Xia Huimei , Lu Feng , Li Junjie
Published: August 2024

The Giant Panda National Park (GPNP) and its surrounding areas constitute a comprehensive ecosystem aimed at protecting the natural habitat of giant pandas, maintaining biodiversity, and ensuring ecological balance. Investigating the spatial correlation between landscape pattern indices and ecological sensitivity (ES) in this area is a crucial step in the construction of ecological civilization and contributes significantly to ecological conservation, restoration, and environmental management. This study utilized Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Fragstats software to select nine ecological evaluation factors and four landscape pattern indices to comprehensively evaluate the ES and landscape patterns of the GPNP and its surrounding areas. This study discovered that the ecological sensitivity of the GPNP is substantially higher than that of the neighboring areas, with the northern Qionglai Mountain area and the western Minshan area showing the highest concentrations of exceptionally high sensitivity. Highly sensitive areas account for 35.22% of the study region, concentrated in areas within the national park, except the Qinling area, as well as the western and southern surrounding areas. The distribution of moderately sensitive areas is more uniform, while low and insensitive areas are found primarily in the northern and eastern areas, along with the national park’s environs. Patch density (PD) within the GPNP is lower than in surrounding areas, with higher PD in the northern and central parts. The landscape division index (DIVISION) decreases from west to east, and the landscape disturbance index (LDI) is significantly lower within the national park than in surrounding areas, with small areas of high LDI in the entire study region. Moran’s index analysis of the GPNP and its surrounding areas shows that ecological sensitivity is positively correlated with landscape pattern indices (PD, SPLIT, DIVISION, and LDI), with the strongest correlation between DIVISION and ecological sensitivity. Spatially, the internal areas of the national park have lower landscape pattern indices but higher ecological sensitivity, while the eastern region exhibits severe landscape fragmentation. Major clusters of high and low values are found around the Qionglai-Daxiangling area, indicating that these areas of high ecological sensitivity have complex landscape structures, numerous habitat edges, and significant impacts on biodiversity and ecological processes. Overall, the areas surrounding the GPNP exhibit lower ecological sensitivity levels and higher landscape fragmentation, emphasizing the need for focused ecological protection in the northern part of the QLS region and the western part of the MS region. Additionally, attention should be given to the impact of landscape fragmentation in the surrounding areas in the interior of the GPNP. These results provide scientific evidence for the sustainable development of the GPNP and its surrounding areas.
A New Stochastic Petri Net Modeling Approach for the Evolution of Online Public Opinion on Emergencies: Based on Four Real-Life Cases
Authors: Guo Chen , Song Yinghua
Published: August 2024

In this study, we analyzed the evolution of online public opinion on emergencies using a new Stochastic Petri Net modeling approach. First, an intuitive description of the emergency online public opinion development process was conceptualized from the life cycle evolution law perspective. Then, based on Petri net theory, a Stochastic Petri Net isomorphic Markov chain model was constructed to simulate the evolution of online public opinion on emergencies. Finally, four real-life cases were selected to validate and analyze the model, demonstrating that the evolutionary leaps, complexity, critical nodes, evolutionary rate, and execution time differ across different online public opinions on emergencies. The study results indicate that this modeling approach has certain advantages in examining the evolution based on multi-factor coupling and quantifying the evolution law in online public opinion on emergencies.
Temporal Variation and Industry-Specific Differences of the Use of Volatile Organic Compounds from 2018 to 2023 and Their Health Risks in a Typical Industrially Concentrated Area in South China
Authors: Guo Yijia , Zhu Lihua , Zhang Liyin , Tang Xinxin , Li Xinjie , Ge Yiming , Li Feng , Yang Jilong , Lu Shaoyou , Chen Jinru , Zhou Xiaotao
Published: August 2024

The risk of occupational exposure to organic solvents varies across industries due to factors such as processing materials, ventilation conditions, and exposure duration. Given the dynamic nature of organic solvent use and occupational exposures, continuous monitoring and analysis are essential for identifying high-risk hazards and developing targeted prevention strategies. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the use of organic solvents and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in different industries in Bao’an District, Shenzhen, China, from 2018 to 2023, to understand their temporal variation and industry-specific differences and to identify high-risk occupational hazards. This study includes 1335 organic solvent samples, used by 414 different industry enterprises, and 1554 air samples. The result shows that the usage of organic solvents in various industries decreased with the outbreak of the pandemic and, conversely, increased as the situation improved. The most frequently detected volatile components in organic solvents were alkanes, followed by aromatic hydrocarbons. The ratios of the detection frequency of VOCs to the total number of detected categories increased year by year after 2020, indicating a tendency towards reduction and concentration of the types of organic solvents used in industrial production. Among the 8 high-risk VOCs, toluene (22.5%), n-hexane (22.0%), xylene (16.1%), and ethylbenzene (15.3%) have relatively high detection rates, suggesting that they need to be focused on in occupational health. Through air samples, the results show that trichloroethylene and xylene pose a high risk to human health (HQ > 1). We recommend that industry should strengthen monitoring of these two VOCs.
Effects of γ-Aminobutyric Acid on Growth Performance, Immunity, Antioxidant Capacity, and Intestinal Microbiota of Growing Minks
Authors: Li Yalin , Zhen Shibo , Sun Fengxue , Cao Lin , Wang Lihua
Published: August 2024

The present experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the growth performance, immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbiota of growing minks. One hundred minks were evenly allocated across five groups, with each group consisting of 10 males and 10 females. The minks in these groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at 0 (control), 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg/kg of diet, respectively. The experiment lasted for eight weeks. The results showed that GABA significantly affected immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbiota (p < 0.05). Compared to the control minks, minks in 20, 30, and 40 mg/kg GABA group had greater total protein quantitative (TP), immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin M (IgM) content, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in serum as well as interleukin-4 (IL-4) level in jejunal mucosa (p < 0.05), and had less serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) content (p < 0.05). Furthermore, compared with the control, the supplementation of GABA at 30 mg/kg of diet improved average daily feed intake (ADFI) (p < 0.05), increased immunoglobulin G (IgG) content in serum, interleukin-10 (IL-10) and secreted immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels in jejunal mucosa, and decreased jejunal mucosal interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) levels (p < 0.05). The weight and feed intake of males were higher than females, and the feed/gain ratio (F/G) was lower than females (p < 0.05). Males also had greater serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and GSH-Px activities, and jejunal mucosa IL-2, IL-4, IL-12, SIgA, and IFN-γ levels (p < 0.05), and males had less serum IgA, IgM, and T-AOC contents, and jejunal mucosal tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level (p < 0.05). The results suggest that the supplementation of GABA at 30 mg/kg of diet can improve immune status and antioxidant capacity, and modulate the intestinal microbiota abundance of growing minks.
Regional words in Istoriia oștirei ce s-au făcut asupra Morèii la anul 7223 (1715)
Authors:   Universitatea „1 Decembrie 1918” Alba Iulia, Gherman Alin-Mihai
Published: August 2024

The present work aims to make the inventory of regional words from a manuscript written in 1715. It is found that most of the words are of South Slavic (Bulgarian and Serbian) and Turkish origin. If the vocabulary related to war (wea¬pons, military ranks) and the internal organization of the Ottoman Empire exceeds in words of Turkish origin, and that related to church architecture and the urban organization of localities are characterized by the preponderance of words of Greek origin, when talking about life rural or describing landscapes or list some animals, the vocabulary used is Wallachian, having an obvious regional character.
It is also observed that most of them register their first attestation in Romanian. The importance of the text for the history of the literary Romanian language is emphasized.