bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel 3-D Jerk System, Its Bifurcation Analysis, Electronic Circuit Design and a Cryptographic Application
Authors: Vaidyanathan Sundarapandian , Kammogne Alain Soup Tewa , Tlelo-Cuautle Esteban , Talonang Cédric Noufozo , Abd-El-Atty Bassem , Abd El-Latif Ahmed A. , Kengne Edwige Mache , Mawamba Vannick Fopa , Sambas Aceng , Darwin P. , Ovilla-Martinez Brisbane
Published: June 2023

This paper introduces a new chaotic jerk system with three cubic nonlinear terms. The stability properties of the three equilibrium points of the proposed jerk system are analyzed in detail. We show that the three equilibrium points of the new chaotic jerk system are unstable and deduce that the jerk system exhibits self-excited chaotic attractors. The bifurcation structures of the proposed jerk system are investigated numerically, showing period-doubling, periodic windows and coexisting bifurcations. An electronic circuit design of the proposed jerk system is designed using PSPICE. As an engineering application, a new image-encryption approach based on the new chaotic jerk system is presented in this research work. Experimental results demonstrate that the suggested encryption mechanism is effective with high plain-image sensitivity and the reliability of the proposed chaotic jerk system for various cryptographic purposes.
Novelty Detection and Fault Diagnosis Method for Bearing Faults Based on the Hybrid Deep Autoencoder Network
Authors: Zhao Yuanyuan , Hao Huijuan , Chen Yu , Zhang Yu
Published: June 2023

In the event of mechanical equipment failure, the fault may not belong to any known category, and existing deep learning methods often misclassify such faults into a known class, leading to erroneous fault diagnosis. In order to address the challenge of identifying new types of faults in mechanical equipment fault diagnosis, this paper proposes a novelty detection and fault diagnosis method for bearing faults based on a hybrid deep autoencoder network. Firstly, a hybrid deep autoencoder network with one input and two outputs was constructed. The original data were then fed into the network to obtain its low-dimensional representation and reconstructed data. By setting a threshold based on the reconstruction error, novel class faults can be detected, while known faults can be classified based on low-dimensional features. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a recognition accuracy of 98.59% (100%) for novel class identification (known fault classification) on the CWRU bearing dataset, 96.79% (98.53%) on the Paderborn dataset, and 84.34% (97.03%) on the MFPT dataset. Therefore, the hybrid deep autoencoder network not only accurately detects unknown types of faults but also effectively classifies known fault types, demonstrating excellent fault identification and classification capabilities.
Design of a Clock Doubler Based on Delay-Locked Loop in a 55 nm RF CMOS Process
Authors: Kim Ho-Won , Kim Sungjin , Lee Kang-Yoon
Published: June 2023

In this paper, for the wireless network, wearable device, and Internet of Things (IoT) markets, a delay-locked loop (DLL) is used to implement accurate multiplication for a reference clock and the frequency of various applications through an edge combiner (EC). A simpler structure is more sensitive to process, voltage, and temperature (PVT), so DLL complements itself quickly in the feedback system and improves the stability of the final output. The proposed DLL-based multiplier can prevent harmonic lock generation using a first phase canceller (FPC), thus compensating for faster lock time. The circuit is built with a 55 nm CMOS process and has a chip area of 0.0225 mm2. The proposed design achieves a total power consumption of 0.48 mW at the 30.72 MHz operating clock frequency, and the clock duty can also operate stably from 15 to 75%.
Energy Internet-Based Load Shifting in Smart Microgrids: An Experimental Study
Authors: Jasim Ali M. , Jasim Basil H. , Mohseni Soheil , Brent Alan C.
Published: June 2023

This study investigated a grid-connected smart microgrid (MG) system integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and a battery energy storage system (BESS) as distributed energy resources (DERs) to locally serve residential loads. The load-shifting demand-side management (DSM) technique was employed to effectively manage the load appliances. The proposed load-shifting algorithm relies on minimum price incentives to allow customers to allocate their load appliances economically during minimum price periods. The algorithm considers the waiting times and minimum tariff periods for appliances, calculates precise operating durations for each appliance, and prioritizes powering the appliances from the MG first, followed by the main grid. The system comprises two non-shiftable and three shiftable loads. When the MG power is insufficient to activate all shiftable loads, the system transfers the remaining unsupplied shiftable appliances to periods with low-priced energy. The Energy Internet concept is adopted to manage energy and monitor usage when a customer is unable to check the accuracy of their energy meter by supervising the system’s features on-site. The proposed comprehensive system enables load management, continuous monitoring, customer awareness, and energy cost saving. Six cases were studied, both numerically and experimentally, with varying MG power generation and load pre-scheduling periods, with and without DSM application. In all adopted cases, the implemented system save energy costs by at least 50%.
Energy Efficiency and Optimization Strategies in a Building to Minimize Airborne Infection Risks
Authors: Samadi Nasim , Shahbakhti Mahdi
Published: June 2023

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems play a crucial role in either increasing or decreasing the risk of airborne disease transmission. High ventilation, for instance, is a common method used to control and reduce the infection risk of airborne diseases such as COVID-19. On the other hand, high ventilation will increase energy consumption and cost. This paper proposes an optimal HVAC controller to assess the trade-off between energy consumption and indoor infection risk of COVID-19. To achieve this goal, a nonlinear model predictive controller (NMPC) is designed to control the HVAC systems of a university building to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission while reducing building energy consumption. The NMPC controller uses dynamic models to predict future outputs while meeting system constraints. To this end, a set of dynamic physics-based models are created to capture heat transfer and conservation of mass, which are used in the NMPC controller. Then, the developed models are experimentally validated by conducting experiments in the ETLC building at the University of Alberta, Canada. A classroom in the building is equipped with a number of sensors to measure indoor and outdoor environmental parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, and CO2 concentration. The validation results show that the model can predict room temperature and CO2 concentration by 0.8%, and 2.4% mean absolute average errors, respectively. Based on the validated models, the NMPC controller is designed to calculate the optimal airflow and supply air temperature for every 15 min. The results for real case studies show that the NMPC controller can reduce the infection risk of COVID-19 transmission below 1% while reducing energy consumption by 55% when compared to the existing building controller.
Impact of Domain Nesting on High-Resolution Forecasts of Solar Conditions in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Mierzwiak Michał , Kroszczyński Krzysztof
Published: June 2023

The article presents a study on the impact of the domain nesting method on the results of simulated solar conditions using the mesoscale Weather Research and Forecasting model. The analysis included 8 consecutive days (July 2022), which were characterized by cloudless conditions, as well as complex situations related to the passing of a cold front. The study covered a region located in Central and Eastern Europe—the southern area of eastern Germany. The results of the model simulations using the adopted domain configurations (with spatial resolutions of 9, 3, and 1 km; 3 and 1 km; and 5 and 1 km) were compared to data from ground measurements from Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) stations. The effect of the duration of the triggered prediction on the quality of the output data was also investigated, and for this purpose, short-term predictions covering 24 and 48 h, respectively, were selected. Research revealed the advantages of one combination of domains—3 and 1 km—over the others and showed that the results of simulations with different duration lengths were characterized by consistent results. Research supports the demand for high-quality forecasts of solar conditions, which are extremely important in the process of managing energy systems.
The Role of mTORC1 Pathway and Autophagy in Resistance to Platinum-Based Chemotherapeutics
Authors: Pan Zhenrui , Zhang Hanxiao , Dokudovskaya Svetlana
Published: June 2023

Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum I) is a platinum-based drug, the mainstay of anticancer treatment for numerous solid tumors. Since its approval by the FDA in 1978, the drug has continued to be used for the treatment of half of epithelial cancers. However, resistance to cisplatin represents a major obstacle during anticancer therapy. Here, we review recent findings on how the mTORC1 pathway and autophagy can influence cisplatin sensitivity and resistance and how these data can be applicable for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Pharmacological Studies on Neuromodulatory Effects of Plant Extracts
Authors: Brunetti Luigi
Published: June 2023

Central nervous system (CNS) disorders represent a public health priority and demand significant scientific efforts for the development and study of new drugs and their possible beneficial effects [...]
Biogenesis, Mode of Action and the Interactions of Plant Non-Coding RNAs
Authors: Zhang Xin , Du Mingjun , Yang Zhengfu , Wang Zhengjia , Lim Kean-Jin
Published: June 2023

The central dogma of genetics, which outlines the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein, has long been the guiding principle in molecular biology. In fact, more than three-quarters of the RNAs produced by transcription of the plant genome are not translated into proteins, and these RNAs directly serve as non-coding RNAs in the regulation of plant life activities at the molecular level. The breakthroughs in high-throughput transcriptome sequencing technology and the establishment and improvement of non-coding RNA experiments have now led to the discovery and confirmation of the biogenesis, mechanisms, and synergistic effects of non-coding RNAs. These non-coding RNAs are now predicted to play important roles in the regulation of gene expression and responses to stress and evolution. In this review, we focus on the synthesis, and mechanisms of non-coding RNAs, and we discuss their impact on gene regulation in plants.
Neurotoxicity from Old and New Radiation Treatments for Brain Tumors
Authors: Soffietti Riccardo , Pellerino Alessia , Bruno Francesco , Mauro Alessandro , Rudà Roberta
Published: June 2023

Research regarding the mechanisms of brain damage following radiation treatments for brain tumors has increased over the years, thus providing a deeper insight into the pathobiological mechanisms and suggesting new approaches to minimize this damage. This review has discussed the different factors that are known to influence the risk of damage to the brain (mainly cognitive disturbances) from radiation. These include patient and tumor characteristics, the use of whole-brain radiotherapy versus particle therapy (protons, carbon ions), and stereotactic radiotherapy in various modalities. Additionally, biological mechanisms behind neuroprotection have been elucidated.
Exploring the Possibility of RNA in Diverse Biological Processes
Authors: Liu Yanchen , Hao Yajing
Published: June 2023

The total amount of RNA in a cell is 5 to 10 times greater than that of DNA [...]
Production and Characterization of Cellulose Nanocrystals from Eucalyptus Dissolving Pulp Using Endoglucanases from Myceliophthora thermophila
Authors: Waghmare Pratima , Xu Nuo , Waghmare Pankajkumar , Liu Guodong , Qu Yinbo , Li Xuezhi , Zhao Jian
Published: June 2023

Endoglucanase (EG) is a key enzyme during enzymatic preparation of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). Myceliophthora thermophila is a thermophilic fungus that has thermal properties and a high secretion of endoglucanases (EGs), and could serve as potential sources of EGs for the preparation of CNCs. In this work, four different GH families (GH5, GH7, GH12, and GH45) of EGs from M. thermophila were expressed and purified, and their enzymatic characteristics and feasibility of application in CNC preparation were investigated. It was shown that the MtEG5A from M. thermophila has good potential in the enzymatic preparation of CNCs using eucalyptus dissolving pulp as feedstock. It was also observed that there was a synergistic effect between the MtEG5A and other MtEGs in the preparation of CNCs, which improved the yield and properties of CNCs obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis. This study provides a reference for understanding the enzymatic characteristics of different families of EGs from M. thermophile and their potential application in nanocellulose production.
DNA Methylation of Genes Participating in Hepatic Metabolisms and Function in Fetal Calf Liver Is Altered by Maternal Undernutrition during Gestation
Authors: Muroya Susumu , Otomaru Konosuke , Oshima Kazunaga , Oshima Ichiro , Ojima Koichi , Gotoh Takafumi
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to elucidate the effects of maternal undernutrition (MUN) on epigenetic modification of hepatic genes in Japanese Black fetal calves during gestation. Using a previously established experimental design feeding the dams with 60% (LN) or 120% (HN) of their global nutritional requirements during the 8.5-month gestational period, DNA methylation in the fetal liver was analyzed with reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS). The promoters and gene bodies in the LN fetuses were hypomethylated compared to HN fetuses. Pathway analysis showed that the genes with DMR in the exon/intron in the LN group were associated with pathways involved in Cushing syndrome, gastric acid secretion, and aldosterone synthesis and secretion. Promoter hypomethylation in the LN group was frequently observed in genes participating in various signaling pathways (thyroid hormone, Ras/Rap1, PIK3-Akt, cAMP), fatty acid metabolism, and cholesterol metabolism. The promoter hypomethylated genes ALPL and GNAS were upregulated in the LN group, whereas the promoter hypermethylated genes GRB10 and POR were downregulated. The intron/exon hypomethylated genes IGF2, IGF2R, ACAD8, TAT, RARB, PINK1, and SOAT2 were downregulated, whereas the hypermethylated genes IGF2BP2, NOS3, and NR2F1 were upregulated. Collectively, MUN alters the promoter and gene body methylation of genes associated with hepatic metabolisms (energy, cholesterol, mitochondria) and function, suggesting an impact of altered gene methylation on the dysregulation of gene expression in the fetal liver.
Resistance to Chemotherapeutic 5-Fluorouracil Conferred by Modulation of Heterochromatic Integrity through Ino80 Function in Fission Yeast
Authors: Lim Kim Kiat , Koh Nathaniel Zhi Hao , Zeng Yi Bing , Chuan Jun Kai , Raechell Raechell , Chen Ee Sin
Published: June 2023

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a conventional chemotherapeutic drug widely used in clinics worldwide, but development of resistance that compromises responsiveness remains a major hurdle to its efficacy. The mechanism underlying 5-FU resistance is conventionally attributed to the disruption of nucleotide synthesis, even though research has implicated other pathways such as RNA processing and chromatin dysregulation. Aiming to clarify resistance mechanisms of 5-FU, we tested the response of a collection of fission yeast (Schizosaccharomyces pombe) null mutants, which confer multiple environmental factor responsiveness (MER). Our screen identified disruption of membrane transport, chromosome segregation and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation to increase cellular susceptibility towards 5-FU. Conversely, we revealed several null mutants of Ino80 complex factors exhibited resistance to 5-FU. Furthermore, attenuation of Ino80 function via deleting several subunit genes reversed loss of chromosome-segregation fidelity in 5-FU in the loss-of-function mutant of the Argonaute protein, which regulates RNA interference (RNAi)-dependent maintenance of pericentromeric heterochromatin. Our study thus uncovered a critical role played by chromatin remodeling Ino80 complex factors in 5-FU resistance, which may constitute a possible target to modulate in reversing 5-FU resistance.
Experimental Treatment with Edaravone in a Mouse Model of Spinocerebellar Ataxia 1
Authors: Sucha Martina , Benediktova Simona , Tichanek Filip , Jedlicka Jan , Kapl Stepan , Jelinkova Dana , Purkartova Zdenka , Tuma Jan , Kuncova Jitka , Cendelin Jan
Published: June 2023

Edaravone is a mitochondrially targeted drug with a suggested capability to modify the course of diverse neurological diseases. Nevertheless, edaravone has not been tested yet in the context of spinocerebellar ataxia 1 (SCA1), an incurable neurodegenerative disease characterized mainly by cerebellar disorder, with a strong contribution of inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study aimed to address this gap, exploring the potential of edaravone to slow down SCA1 progression in a mouse knock-in SCA1 model. SCA1154Q/2Q and healthy SCA12Q/2Q mice were administered either edaravone or saline daily for more than 13 weeks. The functional impairments were assessed via a wide spectrum of behavioral assays reflecting motor and cognitive deficits and behavioral abnormalities. Moreover, we used high-resolution respirometry to explore mitochondrial function, and immunohistochemical and biochemical tools to assess the magnitude of neurodegeneration, inflammation, and neuroplasticity. Data were analyzed using (hierarchical) Bayesian regression models, combined with the methods of multivariate statistics. Our analysis pointed out various previously documented neurological and behavioral deficits of SCA1 mice. However, we did not detect any plausible therapeutic effect of edaravone on either behavioral dysfunctions or other disease hallmarks in SCA1 mice. Thus, our results did not provide support for the therapeutic potential of edaravone in SCA1.
Effects of Elastodontic Appliance on the Pharyngeal Airway Space in Class II Malocclusion
Authors: Patano Assunta , Inchingolo Angelo Michele , Cardarelli Filippo , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Viapiano Fabio , Giotta Massimo , Bartolomeo Nicola , Di Venere Daniela , Malcangi Giuseppina , Minetti Elio , Palermo Andrea , Inchingolo Francesco , Dipalma Gianna
Published: June 2023

Background: The present study analyzed the changes obtained on the upper airway and hyoid bone dimensions in a group of patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion treated with functional elastodontic devices compared to an untreated control group. Methods: A group of 33 patients (19 females and 14 males) with Class II malocclusion treated with AMCOP® SC elastodontic device was compared with a control group of 35 subjects (17 females and 18 males) with untreated Class II malocclusion. Lateral cephalograms were available at the start (T0) and end of treatment/period of observation (T1). Cephalometric analysis was performed and linear measurements to evaluate airway space and hyoid bone position were also obtained. A multivariate analysis of variance for repeated measures (MANOVA) was performed to determine the effects of interactions for the groups for time. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in the study group from T0 and T1 with an improvement of superior upper airway (SPAS p < 0.0001), while in the control group it did not change in a statistically significant way from T0 to T1. The MANOVA test showed statistically significant differences between the two groups for the changes of SPAS (p = 0.003), IAS (p = 0.049), and H-C3 vertical (p = 0.038) values. Conclusions: Functional elastodontic therapy produced significant favorable airway changes in skeletal class II subjects.
Incidence, Characteristics, and Outcomes of Stroke in Pediatric Patients with Celiac Disease
Authors: Vazquez Sima , Thaker Akash , Nolan Bridget , Spirollari Eris , Clare Kevin , Wolf Steven , McGoldrick Patricia , Nuoman Rolla , Overby Philip , Al-Mufti Fawaz
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Celiac disease (CD) can cause long-term inflammation and endothelial dysfunction and has been cited as a risk factor for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in pediatric patients. However, the rate and outcomes of AIS in pediatric patients with CD has not been explored in a large population. Our objective is to explore the rate, severity, and outcomes of CD amongst pediatric AIS patients on a nationwide level. (2) Methods: The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried from 2016 to 2020 for pediatric patients with a principal diagnosis of AIS. Patients with a concurrent diagnosis of CD (AIS-CD) were compared to those without (AIS). Baseline demographics and comorbidities, clinical variables of severity, hospital complications, and the rates of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and mechanical thrombectomy were compared between the two groups. The main outcomes studied were mortality, discharge disposition, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges. (3) Results: Of 12,755 pediatric patients with a principal diagnosis of AIS, 75 (0.6%) had concurrent CD. There were no differences in the severity, discharge disposition, or mortality between the AIS-CD and AIS patients. Patients with AIS-CD were more likely to receive tPA at an outside hospital within 24 h of admission (p < 0.01) and more likely to undergo mechanical thrombectomy (p < 0.01) compared to the AIS patients. (4) Conclusions: CD patients made up only 0.6% of all pediatric AIS patients. No differences in the severity, mortality, or discharge disposition suggests a minimal to absent role of CD in the etiology of stroke. The CD-AIS patients were more likely to receive a tPA or undergo a mechanical thrombectomy; studies are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of these interventions in pediatric patients.
Fabrication of PCL/CMARX/GO Composite Nanofibrous Mats for Dye Adsorption: Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Saad Binkadem Mona
Published: June 2023

The effluents of industrial wastewater contain several toxic organic and inorganic pollutants that may contaminate clean and freshwater sources if untreated or poorly treated. These toxic pollutants include colors; hazardous compounds; surfactants; cosmetics; agrochemicals; pharmaceutical by-products; and agricultural, pharmaceutical, and medical contaminants. Treating wastewater has become a global problem. Many projects have been started in the last two decades to treat wastewater, resultant water pollution, and associated waste management problems. Adsorbants based on graphene oxide (GO) are viable wastewater treatment materials due to their adaptability, photocatalytic action, and capacity for self-assembly. Here, we report the fabrication of nanofibrous mats from polycaprolactone (PCL), carboxymethyl arabinoxylan (CMARX), and carboxyl-functionalized-graphene oxide using an electrospinning technique. The silver nanoparticles were loaded onto the mat to enhance their photocatalytic activity. These mats were characterized using different techniques, including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The water contact angles were used to study their hydrophilic and hydrophobic behavior. The Langmuir isotherm model and adsorption kinetics were studied to evaluate their adsorption capabilities against methylene blue (MB). Sample 2 followed the Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.9939). Adsorption kinetics exhibited pseudo-second order behavior (R2 = 0.9978) due to their maximum correlation coefficient values. MB has excellent adsorption at room temperature and the formation of the monolayer at the surface of the adsorption mat. An enhanced PO43− and MB adsorption was observed, providing recyclability up to 4–5 times. Hence, the fabricated nanofibrous mat would be a potential candidate for more effective wastewater treatment applications.
Spectroscopical Characterization of Copper–Iron (Cu-Fe) Alloy Plasma Using LIBS, ICP-AES, and EDX
Authors: Fayyaz Amir , Iqbal Javed , Asghar Haroon , Alrebdi Tahani A. , Alshehri Ali M. , Ahmed Waqas , Ahmed Nasar
Published: June 2023

In this present work, we demonstrated a spectral characterization of copper–iron (Cu-Fe) alloy using optical emission spectroscopy. The Cu-Fe alloy plasma was generated on the target sample surface by directing the laser pulse of Q-switched Nd: YAG of the second harmonic (2ω) with a 532 nm optical wavelength. The optical emission spectrum was acquired using five miniature spectrometers that lie within the wavelength range of 200–720 nm. The emission plasma was characterized by validating the local-thermodynamical equilibrium (LTE) as well as optically thin (OT) plasma condition. In addition, the LTE condition was verified using the McWhirter criterion, and the OT condition was validated by comparing theoretically calculated intensity ratios with experimental ones. Plasma parameters, including electron number density as well as plasma temperature, were estimated. In the first stage, the plasma temperature was estimated using the Boltzmann-plot method and the two-line method. The average calculated value of the plasma temperatures were 8014 ± 800 K and 8044 ± 800 K using the Boltzmann-plot and two-line methods, respectively. In the second stage, electron number density was estimated using the Saha–Boltzmann equation and stark-broadening method (SBM). The average number density calculated from the SBM was 2.73×1016 cm−3 and from the Saha–Boltzmann equation was 3.9×1016 cm−3, showing a good agreement. Finally, the comparative compositional analysis was performed using CF-LIBS, Boltzmann Intercept Method, EDX, and ICP-AES, which showed good agreement with that of the standard composition.
Essential Oils for the Conservation of Paper Items
Authors: Menicucci Felicia , Palagano Eleonora , Michelozzi Marco , Ienco Andrea
Published: June 2023

Archival documents and artworks stored in libraries frequently undergo degradative processes promoted by the so-called “biodeteriogens” that inhabit these places. A renewed interest in plant-derived products has arisen in those research groups focusing on cultural heritage preservation and looking for new and safe disinfection techniques. In this view, essential oils (EOs) and their volatile organic constituents are very appealing thanks to their versatility of action. A literature survey of the scientific publications involving EOs and/or their major constituents related to the conservation of paper items of cultural heritage interest is presented here, aiming to reveal benefits and limitations of such peculiar plant-derived compounds.
In the Dawn of an Early Invasion: No Genetic Diversity of Angiostrongylus cantonensis in Ecuador?
Authors: Solórzano Álava Luis , Bedoya Pilozo Cesar , Hernandez Alvarez Hilda , Rojas Rivera Lazara , Rodriguez Ortega Misladys , Fraga Nodarse Jorge , Pereira Leandro de Mattos , Simões Raquel de Oliveira , Vilela Roberto do Val
Published: June 2023

The nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis has been reported worldwide. However, some basic questions remain unanswered about A. cantonensis in Ecuador: (1) Was the invasion of A. cantonensis in Ecuador unique, or did it occur in different waves? (2) Was this invasion as recent as historical records suggest? (3) Did this invasion come from other regions of South America or elsewhere? To address these issues, we assessed the genetic diversity of MT-CO1 gene sequences from isolates obtained in 11 of Ecuador’s 24 provinces. Our Bayesian inference phylogenetic tree recovered A. cantonensis as a well-supported monophyletic group. All 11 sequences from Ecuador were identical and identified as AC17a. The haplotype AC17a, found in Ecuador and the USA, formed a cluster with AC17b (USA), AC13 (Thailand), and AC12a-b (Cambodia). Notably, all the samples obtained in Ecuadorian provinces’ different geographic and climatic regions had no genetic difference. Despite the lack of genetic information on A. cantonensis in Latin America, except in Brazil, our finding differs from previous studies by its absence of gene diversity in Ecuador. We concluded that the invasion of A. cantonensis in Ecuador may have occurred: (1) as a one-time event, (2) recently, and (3) from Asia via the USA. Further research should include samples from countries neighboring Ecuador to delve deeper into this.
Application of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for the Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) of Moringa oleifera: Extraction Yield, Content of Bioactive Compounds, and Biological Effects In Vitro
Authors: Setyani Wahyuning , Murwanti Retno , Sulaiman Teuku Nanda Saifullah , Hertiani Triana
Published: June 2023

This study optimized ultrasound-assisted extraction conditions to maximize the extraction yield, total flavonoid content (TFC), total phenolic content (TPC), and DPP IV enzyme inhibitory activity from Moringa oleifera. The four UAE factors, solvent ratio (A), solvent–solid ratio (B), extraction temperature (C), and extraction time (D), were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). A Box–Behnken design was used for the experimental design. The optimal conditions were found to be a 50% v/v solvent ratio, a 30% v/w solvent–solid ratio, 35 °C extraction temperature, and 45 min extraction time. The experimental value of extraction yield (R1), TFC (R2), TPC (R3), and DPP IV enzyme inhibitory activity (R4) (87.99% w/w, 56.63 mg QE/g extract, 97.26 mg GAE/g extract, and 93.32% inhibition, respectively) agreed with those predicted by RSM models (88.10% w/w, 56.61 mg QE/g extract, 97.16 mg GAE/g extract, and93.38% inhibition, respectively), thus demonstrating the appropriateness of the model used and the ability of the RSM to optimize the extraction conditions. Excellent DPP IV enzyme inhibitory activity was exhibited by M. oleifera compared with the standard, sitagliptin. While the modeled equation fits the data, the t-test is not significant, suggesting that the experimental values agree with those predicted by the RSM–BBD
Methods of Philosophic Critique Native to the Laozi
Authors: Sarafinas Daniel
Published: June 2023

Lao-Zhuang thought and the Laozi in particular is frequently interpreted as providing a critique of the dominant social values of its time. In English language literature, this often entails utilizing thinkers from the Western tradition of philosophic critique from Kant onwards, thereby obscuring the critical methods unique to the text itself. Chinese language literature, on the other hand, rarely uses the semantics of philosophic critique which thereby prevents the text from contributing its own unique voice to the discourse of critique. This paper attempts to put the Laozi into discourse with the wider tradition of philosophic critique, broadening the tradition with a unique “Chinese voice”, but allowing it to speak in its own terms according to the text itself, the commentarial tradition, and modern scholarship.
Smart Farming Revolution: Portable and Real-Time Soil Nitrogen and Phosphorus Monitoring for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Singh Harpreet , Halder Nirmalya , Singh Baldeep , Singh Jaskaran , Sharma Shrey , Shacham-Diamand Yosi
Published: June 2023

Precision agriculture is crucial for ensuring food security in a growing global population. Nutrients, their presence, concentration, and effectiveness, are key components in data-driven agriculture. Assessing macro and micro-nutrients, as well as factors such as water and pH, helps determine soil fertility, which is vital for supporting healthy plant growth and high crop yields. Insufficient soil nutrient assessment during continuous cropping can threaten long-term agricultural viability. Soil nutrients need to be measured and replenished after each harvest for optimal yield. However, existing soil testing procedures are expensive and time-consuming. The proposed research aims to assess soil nutrient levels, specifically nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations, to provide critical information and guidance on restoring optimal soil fertility. In this research, a novel chip-level colorimeter is fabricated to detect the N and P elements of soil onto a handheld colorimeter or spectrophotometer. Chemical reaction with soil solution generates color in the presence of nutrients, which are then quantitatively measured using sensors. The test samples are collected from various farmlands, and the results are validated with laboratory analysis of samples using spectrophotometers used in laboratories. ANOVA test has been performed in which F value > 1 in our study indicates statistically significant differences between the group means. The alternate hypothesis, which proposes the presence of significant differences between the groups, is supported by the data. The device created in this paper has crucial potential in terms of environmental and biological applications.
Traffic Sign Recognition with Deep Learning: Vegetation Occlusion Detection in Brazilian Environments
Authors: Dalborgo Vanessa , Murari Thiago B. , Madureira Vinicius S. , Moraes João Gabriel L. , Bezerra Vitor Magno O. S. , Santos Filipe Q. , Silva Alexandre , Monteiro Roberto L. S.
Published: June 2023

Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) is one of the many utilities made possible by embedded systems with internet connections. Through the usage of vehicular cameras, it’s possible to capture and classify traffic signs in real time with Artificial Intelligence (AI), more specifically, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) based techniques. This article discusses the implementation of such TSR systems, and the building process of datasets for AI training. Such datasets include a brand new class to be used in TSR, vegetation occlusion. The results show that this approach is useful in making traffic sign maintenance faster since this application turns vehicles into moving sensors in that context. Leaning on the proposed technique, identified irregularities in traffic signs can be reported to a responsible body so they will eventually be fixed, contributing to a safer traffic environment. This paper also discusses the usage and performance of different YOLO models according to our case studies.
Correction: Li et al. Fringe Projection Profilometry Based on Saturated Fringe Restoration in High Dynamic Range Scenes. Sensors 2023, 23, 3133
Authors: Li Hongru , Wei Hao , Liu Jiangtao , Deng Guoliang , Zhou Shouhuan , Wang Wenwu , He Liang , Tian Peng
Published: June 2023

The authors wish to make the following corrections to the original paper [...]
Design and Validation of a Low-Cost Mobile EEG-Based Brain–Computer Interface
Authors: Craik Alexander , González-España Juan José , Alamir Ayman , Edquilang David , Wong Sarah , Sánchez Rodríguez Lianne , Feng Jeff , Francisco Gerard E. , Contreras-Vidal Jose L.
Published: June 2023

Objective: We designed and validated a wireless, low-cost, easy-to-use, mobile, dry-electrode headset for scalp electroencephalography (EEG) recordings for closed-loop brain–computer (BCI) interface and internet-of-things (IoT) applications. Approach: The EEG-based BCI headset was designed from commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components using a multi-pronged approach that balanced interoperability, cost, portability, usability, form factor, reliability, and closed-loop operation. Main Results: The adjustable headset was designed to accommodate 90% of the population. A patent-pending self-positioning dry electrode bracket allowed for vertical self-positioning while parting the user’s hair to ensure contact of the electrode with the scalp. In the current prototype, five EEG electrodes were incorporated in the electrode bracket spanning the sensorimotor cortices bilaterally, and three skin sensors were included to measure eye movement and blinks. An inertial measurement unit (IMU) provides monitoring of head movements. The EEG amplifier operates with 24-bit resolution up to 500 Hz sampling frequency and can communicate with other devices using 802.11 b/g/n WiFi. It has high signal–to–noise ratio (SNR) and common–mode rejection ratio (CMRR) (121 dB and 110 dB, respectively) and low input noise. In closed-loop BCI mode, the system can operate at 40 Hz, including real-time adaptive noise cancellation and 512 MB of processor memory. It supports LabVIEW as a backend coding language and JavaScript (JS), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and HyperText Markup Language (HTML) as front-end coding languages and includes training and optimization of support vector machine (SVM) neural classifiers. Extensive bench testing supports the technical specifications and human-subject pilot testing of a closed-loop BCI application to support upper-limb rehabilitation and provides proof-of-concept validation for the device’s use at both the clinic and at home. Significance: The usability, interoperability, portability, reliability, and programmability of the proposed wireless closed-loop BCI system provides a low-cost solution for BCI and neurorehabilitation research and IoT applications.
Channel Selection in Uncoordinated IEEE 802.11 Networks Using Graph Coloring
Authors: Gimenez-Guzman Jose Manuel , Marsa-Maestre Ivan , de la Hoz Enrique , Orden David , Herranz-Oliveros David
Published: June 2023

One of the big challenges in decentralized Wi-Fi networks is how to select channels for the different access points (APs) and their associated stations (STAs) in order to minimize interference and hence maximize throughput. Interestingly enough, de facto standards in terms of uncoordinated channel selection are quite simple, and in many cases result in fairly suboptimal channel allocations. Here, we explore how graph coloring can be used to evaluate and inform decisions on Wi-Fi channel selection in uncoordinated settings. Graph coloring, in its most basic form, is a classic mathematical problem where colors have to be assigned to nodes in a graph while avoiding assigning the same color to adjacent nodes. In this paper, we modeled Wi-Fi uncoordinated channel selection as a graph coloring problem and evaluated the performance of different uncoordinated channel selection techniques in a set of representative scenarios of residential buildings. The results confirm some of the widely accepted consensus regarding uncoordinated channel selection but also provide some new insights. For instance, in some settings, it would be better to delegate the decision on which channel to use to transmit the STAs, rather than having the AP make the decision on its own, which is the usual way.
Algorithms Research and Precision Comparison of Different Frequency Combinations of BDS-3\GPS\Galileo for Precise Point Positioning in Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Gao Meng , Cao Zhihua , Meng Ziheng , Tan Chunbo , Zhu Huizhong , Huang Lu
Published: June 2023

With the continuous construction and development of the BeiDou navigation satellite system (BDS), its positioning performance is constantly being improved. In this study, the positioning performance of different frequency combinations of BDS-3/GPS/Galileo in the Asia-Pacific region was investigated. The precision products of Wuhan University and the observation data of nine MGEX stations were selected to compare and analyze the B1I\B1C\B2a\B3I and L1\E1 pseudo-range Standard Point Positioning (SPP) and B1IB2a\B1IB3I\B1CB2a\B1CB3I\B2aB3I\L1L2\E1E5a precise point positioning (PPP) performance, while B1I\B3I\L1 SPP and B1IB3I PPP were investigated using BDS-2 with QZSS supplemented with BDS-3 and GPS. The experimental results showed that the positioning precision of BDS-3/GPS/Galileo SPP was in the order of B1C > E1 > L1 > B1I > B3I > B2a, and it was not significantly improved after BDS-2 and QZSS were added. Moreover, for the PPP of different frequency combinations, the convergence speed was in the order of L1L2 > B1IB3I > E1E5a > B1CB3I > B1CB2a > B1IB2a > B2aB3I. After adding BDS-2, B1IB3I improved by about 11% in static mode and 27% in kinematic mode, which was similar to the L1L2 frequency combination. The positioning precision of different frequency combinations of BDS-3/GPS/Galileo was B1IB3I > B1CB3I > L1L2 > E1E5a > B1B2a > B1CB2a > B2aB3I. In static mode, after adding BDS-2, B1IB3I did not show significant improvement in the plane direction, and showed ~61% improvement in the elevation direction, and ~67% in the three-dimensional (3D) direction. In kinematic mode, after adding BDS-2, B1IB3I was improved by about 16% in the E direction, the N direction did not show significant change, it improved by ~38% in the U direction and by ~70% in the 3D direction. In general, the positioning performance of BDS-3 was slightly better than those of GPS and Galileo in the Asia-Pacific region, and it is believed that with the continuous development of BDS, its positioning performance will surely be improved further.
A Novel Diagnosis Scheme against Collusive False Data Injection Attack
Authors: Hu Jiamin , Yang Xiaofan , Yang Luxing
Published: June 2023

The collusive false data injection attack (CFDIA) is a false data injection attack (FIDA), in which false data are injected in a coordinated manner into some adjacent pairs of captured nodes of an attacked wireless sensor network (WSN). As a result, the defense of WSN against a CFDIA is much more difficult than defense against ordinary FDIA. This paper is devoted to identifying the compromised sensors of a well-behaved WSN under a CFDIA. By establishing a model for predicting the reading of a sensor and employing the principal component analysis (PCA) technique, we establish a criterion for judging whether an adjacent pair of sensors are consistent in terms of their readings. Inspired by the system-level fault diagnosis, we introduce a set of watchdogs into a WSN as comparators between adjacent pairs of sensors of the WSN, and we propose an algorithm for diagnosing the WSN based on the collection of the consistency outcomes. Simulation results show that the proposed diagnosis scheme achieves a higher probability of correct diagnosis.
Design and Evaluation of CPR Emergency Equipment for Non-Professionals
Authors: Xie Jiayu , Wu Qun
Published: June 2023

Sudden cardiac death is a sudden and highly fatal condition. Implementing high-quality emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) early on is an effective rescue method for this disease. However, the rescue steps of CPR are complicated and difficult to remember, and the quantitative indicators are difficult to control, which leads to a poor quality of CPR emergency actions outside the hospital setting. Therefore, we have developed CPR emergency equipment with a multisensory feedback function, aiming to guide rescuers in performing CPR through visual, auditory, and tactile interaction. This equipment consists of three components: first aid clothing, an audio-visual integrated terminal, and a vital sign detector. These three components are based on a micro-power WiFi-Mesh network, enabling the long-term wireless transmission of the multisensor data. To evaluate the impact of the multisensory feedback CPR emergency equipment on nonprofessionals, we conducted a controlled experiment involving 32 nonmedical subjects. Each subject was assigned to either the experimental group, which used the equipment, or the control group, which did not. The main evaluation criteria were the chest compression (CC) depth, the CC rate, the precise depth of the CC ratio (5–6 cm), and the precise rate of the CC ratio -(100–120 times/min). The results indicated that the average CC depth in the experimental group was 51.5 ± 1.3 mm, which was significantly better than that of the control group (50.2 ± 2.2 mm, p = 0.012). Moreover, the average CC rate in the experimental group (110.1 ± 6.2 times/min) was significantly higher than that of the control group (100.4 ± 6.6 times/min) (p < 0.001). Compared to the control group (66.37%), the experimental group showed a higher proportion of precise CC depth (82.11%), which is closer to the standard CPR rate of 100%. In addition, the CC ratio of the precise rate was 93.75% in the experimental group, which was significantly better than that of 56.52% in the control group (p = 0.024). Following the experiment, the revised System Availability Scale (SUS) was utilized to evaluate the equipment’s usability. The average total SUS score was 78.594, indicating that the equipment’s acceptability range was evaluated as ‘acceptable’, and the overall adjective rating was ‘good’. In conclusion, the multisensory feedback CPR emergency equipment significantly enhances the CC performance (CC depth, CC rate, the precise depth of CC ratio, the precise rate of CC ratio) of nonprofessionals during CPR, and the majority of participants perceive the equipment as being easy to use.
Enhanced Performance of Artificial-Neural-Network-Based Equalization for Short-Haul Fiber-Optic Communications
Authors: Maghrabi Mahmoud M. T. , Swaminathan Hariharan , Kumar Shiva , Bakr Mohamed H. , Ali Shirook M.
Published: June 2023

This work proposes an efficient and easy-to-implement single-layer artificial neural network (ANN)-based equalizer with improved compensation performance. The proposed equalizer is used for effectively mitigating the distortions induced in the short-haul fiber-optic communication systems based on intensity modulation and direct detection (IMDD). The compensation performance of the ANN equalizer is significantly improved, exploiting an introduced advanced training scheme. The efficiency and robustness of the proposed ANN equalizer are illustrated through 10- and 28-Gbaud short-reach optical-fiber communication systems. Compared to the efficient but computationally expensive maximum likelihood sequence estimator (MLSE), the proposed ANN equalizer not only significantly reduces its computational equalization cost and storage memory requirements, but it also outperforms its bit error rate performance.
Research as a source of evidence
Authors:   Belgorod Regional Oncological Dispensary, Belgorod, Armakov S. P.
Published: June 2023

The article presents the main sources of evidence that are an integral part of modern medical practice, i.e. controlled clinical trials. The concepts of research hypothesis, studied factors, and systematic and random errors are presented. The classification of errors is provided, and the design of their main varieties is described. The issues of the methodological level of planning, conducting, and evaluating the results of the study and their submission to peer-reviewed medical publications are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the problems of external and internal validity of studies and the statistical and clinical significance of their results.
Enquête sur une fontaine en faïence de Sceaux
Authors: Dupont-Logié Cécile , Matthieu Marie-Noëlle
Published: June 2023

In the articles dedicated to the faïence factory in Sceaux (Hauts-de-Seine), the pottery amateur systematically finds a certain fountain. Although it is of remarkable making, there are few documents about it. The investigation we conducted allows us to put it back into an amazing context.
Le Bleu d’Arras
Authors: Maggetti Marino , Albis Antoine d' , El Korh Afifé
Published: June 2023

This paper presents and discusses the first analyses made to date on the body, the glaze and the

“ Ronda” under-glaze blue of a plate from the French Arras manufacture. The body is an association of quartz (relict) + cristobalite + ß-wollastonite + vitreous phase. Chemically, it is the richest in SiO 2 and Al 2 O 3 and with the lowest MgO content of all French soft porcelains. The glaze is silica-and lead-rich, with little aluminum, calcium, potassium and sodium. Its formula must have been close to that of Vincennes. The composition of the blue painting is compatible with a blue glass containing cobalt, nickel, arsenic, barium and bismuth, very different from the blue of a Sèvres plate from 1781.