bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Optimal Cross-Sectional Shapes of the PEMFC Endplates by Using a Moment of Inertia and 3D FEM Models
Authors: Zhang Zhiming , Zhang Jun , Shang Yapeng , Zhang Tong
Published: October 2022

The deflection of the endplate under the clamping force has a vital effect on fuel cell performance. An optimal cross-sectional shape with a high moment of inertia of the endplate is significant to maximize the bending stiffness of the fuel cell stack. Five cross-sectional shapes (rectangular, round, parabolic, rectangular + round, and rectangular + parabolic) of the typical endplates are proposed. An analytical study on the moments of inertia of the endplates is introduced and analyzed. The maximum moments of inertia of the cross-sections are obtained and displayed in a matrix in thickness and length. The statistical results show that the “rectangular + parabolic” cross-section has the advantage of wide dimensional size while maintaining a high moment of inertia. Finally, the analytical studies are validated by a finite element method (FEM) and the corresponding trends are highly agreed upon. The maximum moment of inertia of the parabolic endplate is 85.71% higher than the rectangular endplate with a thickness of 80 mm, and the corresponding contact pressure variance is 6.15% less than the rectangular endplate. The presented analytical study is significant and effective to optimize the cross-sectional shape of the endplate and provide an endplate design direction for a large fuel cell stack.
Predicting Lateral Resistance of Piles in Cohesive Soils
Authors: Chaonoi Wiphu , Shiau Jim , Ngamkhanong Chayut , Thongchom Chanachai , Jamsawang Pitthaya , Keawsawasvong Suraparb
Published: October 2022

The ultimate lateral resistance of free- and fixed-headed piles in cohesive soil is examined in this paper using the three-dimensional finite element limit analysis with upper and lower bound theorems. A special concern, and that is the novelty of this study, is devoted to the combined effect of the three important dimensionless parameters; namely, the overburden stress factor (n), the pile length-diameter ratio (L/D), and the ratio of eccentric length to diameter (e/D). Numerical results are expressed by using Broms’s horizontal load factor, and comparisons are made with several published solutions. In addition, the associated failure mechanisms are investigated with respect to the three parametric effects. The adopted new technique has been successfully used to study a number of different geo-stability problems. It is thus the aim of this paper to produce accurate and practical results with design equations and charts that can be used by practitioners to predict the undrained lateral capacity of fixed- and free-headed piles.
A Metaheuristic-Based Micro-Grid Sizing Model with Integrated Arbitrage-Aware Multi-Day Battery Dispatching
Authors: Mohseni Soheil , Brent Alan C.
Published: October 2022

Rule-based micro-grid dispatch strategies have received significant attention over the last two decades. However, a recent body of literature has conclusively shown the benefits of operational scheduling optimisation while optimally sizing micro-grids. This is commonly referred to as micro-grid design and dispatch co-optimisation (MGDCO). However, as far as can be ascertained, all the existing MGDCO models in the literature consider a 24-h-resolved day-ahead timeframe for the associated optimal energy scheduling processes. That is, intelligent, look-ahead energy dispatch strategies over multi-day timeframes are generally absent from the wider relevant literature. In response, this paper introduces a novel MGDCO modelling framework that integrates an arbitrage-aware linear programming-based multi-day energy dispatch strategy into the standard metaheuristic-based micro-grid investment planning processes. Importantly, the model effectively extends the mainstream energy scheduling optimisation timeframe in the micro-grid investment planning problems by producing optimal dispatch solutions that are aware of scenarios over three days. Based on the numeric simulation results obtained from a test-case micro-grid, the effectiveness of the proposed optimisation-based dispatch strategy in the micro-grid sizing processes is verified, while retaining the computational tractability. Specifically, comparing the proposed investment planning framework, which uses the formulated 72-h dispatch strategies, with the business-as-usual MGDCO methods has demonstrated that it can reduce the micro-grid’s whole-life cost by up to 8%. Much of the outperformance of the proposed method can be attributed to the effective use of the behind-the-meter Li-ion battery storage, which improves the overall system flexibility.
Time to Conquer Fungal Infectious Diseases: Employing Nanoparticles as Powerful and Versatile Antifungal Nanosystems against a Wide Variety of Fungal Species
Authors: Jangjou Ali , Zareshahrabadi Zahra , Abbasi Milad , Talaiekhozani Amirreza , Kamyab Hesam , Chelliapan Shreeshivadasan , Vaez Ahmad , Golchin Ali , Tayebi Lobat , Vafa Ehsan , Amani Ali Mohammad , Faramarzi Hossein
Published: October 2022

The development of novel antifungal agents and, in particular, the widespread use of these medications over the course of the past two decades, has had a significant impact on the treatment of fungal infectious diseases. This has resulted in a complete transformation of the treatment of fungal infectious diseases. However, the widespread development of antibiotic resistance has masked the significance of such breakthroughs. Antifungal infection treatment with nanoparticles has been shown to be effective. As a result of their unique characteristics, these substances, in contrast to antibiotics in their purest form, are able to exhibit an increased anti-proliferative capacity while requiring a lower concentration than traditional drugs do in order to achieve the same effect. Decreased drug effectiveness, minimal tissue penetration throughout tissue, restricted tissue penetration, decreased bioavailability, poor drug pharmacokinetics, and low water solubility are some of the major factors contributing to the employment of antifungal medicines in delivery systems. Because of this, one of the primary goals of incorporating antifungal medications into varying sorts of nanoparticles is to reduce the negative effects of the drugs’ inherent qualities. This article provides an overview of the many types of nanoparticles, such as metal, metal oxide, and non-metal oxide nanoparticles, carbon-based nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanofibers, antifungal peptides, composites, and ZnO quantum dots, that can be used as antifungal drug delivery systems, as well as the benefits that these nanomaterials have over purified medications.
Nexus between Environmental Consciousness and Consumers’ Purchase Intention toward Circular Textile Products in India: A Moderated-Mediation Approach
Authors: Shamsi Mushahid Ali , Chaudhary Asiya , Anwar Imran , Dasgupta Rajarshi , Sharma Sachin
Published: October 2022

The textile industry has witnessed rapid growth due to fast fashion and the growing use of textile products, resulting in terribly increasing textile waste and biodiversity and humans. Therefore, a shift from a linear paradigm (take-make-use-discard) to a circular model of textiles production (take-make-use-recycle-remanufacture-reuse) is urgently required. Still, it can only be successful if consumers accept circular textile products (CTP). Hence, the study assesses the direct and indirect (via perceived risks and perceived benefits) influence of environmental consciousness on purchase intention. Moreover, the study also attempts to check the moderating role of product knowledge on the direct links between perceived risks, perceived benefits, and purchase intention such that the indirect effects of environmental consciousness (via perceived risks and perceived benefits) on purchase intention are conditioned at low/high levels of product knowledge. Collecting a sample of 409 respondents from the National Capital Region (NCR) and Aligarh in India, we used SEM to test the direct and indirect effects, while model-14 in Process Macro was used to measure conditional indirect effects. The results show that environmental consciousness directly influences purchase intention and perceived risks, and perceived benefits partially mediate the direct link between environmental consciousness and purchase intention. Further, product knowledge conditionally moderates the indirect effect of EC on PI (via perceived risks and perceived benefits) such that the mediating effects of perceived risks and perceived benefits significantly vary at low/high levels of product knowledge. The findings direct retail managers and decision-making bodies in the Indian textile industry to frame focused strategies for reducing textile waste and protecting the environment by developing bylaws in favor of circular economy and CTP.
Developing and Validating Constructs: A Pragmatic Measurement of Financial Inclusion as a Tool for Sustainable Growth
Authors: Murugesan T. K. , Asis Edwin Ramirez , K.P. Jaheer Mukthar , Calderón Juan Villanueva , Guerrero Felix Julca , Picon Jorge Castillo , Diaz Guillermo Pelaez
Published: October 2022

Given the ubiquity of sustainability, the study attempts to develop and validate measurement constructs for financial inclusion. Further, it empirically examines the statistical relationship between validated constructs of financial inclusion and financial empowerment of blue-collar migrant workers. This empirical study proposes an exclusive research framework to inspect the development and validation of measurement scales for financial inclusion in the context of sustainable growth in India. The primary data were collected using the structured interview schedule among 268 blue-collar migrant workers. The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was employed to validate measurement constructs of financial inclusion and examine their hypothetical and conjectural relationships with the help of multiple correlation analysis. This paper identified eight valid and reliable underlying constructs of financial inclusion with the help of an exploratory factor study. The underlying constructs are ease of access, usage, availability, affordability, physical proximity, awareness and knowledge, financial literacy, and financial empowerment. Further, the outcomes of this study also confirmed that the underlying constructs of financial inclusion have a significant positive influence on the financial empowerment of blue-collar migrant workers.
Factors Influencing the Sustainability of Stroke Rehabilitation Services in Community: An Analysis Based on Kano Model
Authors: Chen Xin , Ma Chengxie , Tao Chengyu
Published: October 2022

A patient’s enthusiasm will affect their recovery during stroke rehabilitation training. Since rehabilitation training is a long process, patients are usually cared for at home, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, professional supervision in the community is often lacking, resulting in low patient participation and initiative as well as the low sustainability of rehabilitation services. At present, many researchers are trying to optimize the process of community rehabilitation services to improve patient compliance. The majority of them, however, have failed to fully consider the psychological needs of the patients. Our aim was to find the key factors affecting patients’ enthusiasm to participate in rehabilitation training. We also wanted to provide an optimal scheme for enhancing the sustainability of community rehabilitation services. Based on patient-centered research, we applied the Kano model and the customer satisfaction coefficient to the study and established a framework for improving the community rehabilitation experience. We observed that patients must first understand basic rehabilitation information and effective rehabilitation methods. Additionally, we found that some factors related to incentive and pleasure could meet the psychological needs of patients. Furthermore, as a result of this research, we applied the framework in practice and refined the design of a rehabilitation-training service system. This work may have significance for the design of sustainable community rehabilitation services. The purpose of this paper is to indicate the direction of rehabilitation services so that patients can take the initiative in rehabilitation.
Species-Abundance Distribution Patterns of Plant Communities in the Gurbantünggüt Desert, China
Authors: Zang Zexuan , Zeng Yong , Wang Dandan , Shi Fengzhi , Dong Yiyang , Liu Na , Liang Yuejia
Published: October 2022

It is important to study the species-abundance distribution pattern in a community to reveal the mechanism of community assembly. Six abundance models (log-normal distribution model, Zipf model, Zipf–Mandelbrot model, broken stick model, niche preemption model, and Volkov model) were used to fit the species-abundance distribution pattern of six scales (10 m × 10 m, 20 m × 20 m, 40 m ×40 m, 60 m × 60 m, 80 m × 80 m, 100 m × 100 m) in fixed, semifixed, and mobile sand dunes in the Gurbantünggüt Desert, respectively. The best-fitting model was determined using the K-S test, the Chi-square test, and the Akaike information criterion. The results showed that the values of soil salinity, nutrients, water content, Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H′), Pielou evenness index (E), and Simpson index (D) were ranked in all three habitats as fixed dunes > semifixed dunes > mobile dunes. The rank curves span a narrow range on the horizontal axis at scales of 10 m × 10 m and 20 m × 20 m, and species richness is minimal. As the scale increases, the span range of the curve gradually increases, and species richness becomes higher at scales of 40 m × 40 m, 60 m × 60 m, 80 m × 80 m, and 100 m × 100 m. At the 10 m × 10 m and 20 m × 20 m scales, the broken stick model fits best in the three dune habitats. At the 40 m × 40 m and 60 m × 60 m scales, the niche preemption model fits best in the three dune habitats. At the 80 m × 80 m and 100 m × 100 m scales, the Volkov neutral model fits best in the fixed and semifixed dune habitats, and the niche preemption model fits best in the mobile dune habitats. In fixed, semifixed, and mobile dunes, both niche and neutral processes played important roles in community construction, reflecting the manifestation of the community niche-neutral continuum.
Radiological and Structural Characterization of Raw and Alkali-Activated Wood Ash and Metakaolin Blends
Authors: Mladenović Nikolić Nataša N. , Kandić Aleksandar B. , Trivunac Katarina V. , Mirković Miljana M. , Vukanac Ivana S. , Nenadović Snežana S. , Kljajević Ljiljana M.
Published: October 2022

The aim of the presented research was to investigate the application possibility of wood ash and metakaolin to obtain alkali-activated materials as relatively new materials in the building industry. Thus, in order to assess the adequate use of these waste materials, structural and radiological characteristics should be considered. Until now, the focus has been on ash from thermal power plants produced by burning coal, but a large part of households in our country have individual fireplaces in which wood is used as the basic raw material; thus, it is very interesting to measure the activity concentration of radionuclide in wood ash as well as the possibility of reusing that ash for other purposes. All materials were studied, in terms of physical and chemical characteristics, by methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). XRD measurements of wood ash samples showed that it consists of calcite and larnite. FTIR spectroscopy revealed a polymeric Si–O–Al framework in alkali-activated materials and Si–O bonding bands corresponding to silicon dioxide. Determination of radionuclide content was performed by means of gamma-ray spectrometry. Results showed that the alkaline activation process led to the decrease in the activity concentration of radionuclides detected in the measured samples. External radiation hazard index (Hex) for wood ash was reduced by more than 50% after alkali activation. The results of activity concentration measurements in alkali-activated materials indicate potential for their safe application in building construction.
Electric Kettles: An Assessment of Energy-Saving Potentials for Policy Making in the European Union
Authors: Durand Antoine , Hirzel Simon , Rohde Clemens , Gebele Marcel , Lopes Carlos , Olsson Emma , Barkhausen Robin
Published: October 2022

Electric kettles are found in almost every household in the European Union. Within the preparatory study to establish the Ecodesign Working Plan 2015–2017, the electricity consumption of this product group in Europe was estimated at 20 to 33 TWh in 2012, with an energy-saving potential of more than 20%. This led to an Ecodesign preparatory study on kettles in 2020 to analyse the potential role of environmental policy-making for electric kettles in Europe in more detail. Based on elements from this study, this paper reviews worldwide policies covering this product group, methods to assess its energy efficiency and analyses of the potential of technical improvements to enhance energy efficiency. A method is suggested for measuring the power of kettles, and corresponding power-temperature measurements of selected kettles are presented. Overall, the findings indicate that technical optimization alone has a limited potential to improve the energy efficiency of kettles and to highlight the absence of a standard for measuring the energy consumption of electric kettles. However, user-related aspects of operating kettles offer a substantial saving potential. Heating too much water or at higher than required temperatures increase the energy consumption and related energy costs of private households. This could provide leverage for policy makers to improve the market and to reduce the environmental impact of this product group beyond mere technical optimization of energy efficiency, including aspects related to circular economy and energy sufficiency.
Application of Microbial-Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation in Wave Erosion Protection of the Sandy Slope: An Experimental Study
Authors: Li Yilong , Xu Qiang , Li Yujie , Li Yuanbei , Liu Cong
Published: October 2022

Sandy slope erosion leads to coast degradation and exacerbates coastal zone instability and failure. As an eco-friendly engineering technology, microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) can provide a protection method against sandy slope erosion. In this study, a series of flume tests were conducted to investigate the wave erosion resistance of the MICP-treated sandy slope. The penetration tests were conducted to measure the slope surface strength, and the calcium carbonate content was evaluated by the acid washing method. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) was employed to study the microstructures of MICP-treated sand particles. In addition, the influence of MICP treatment on the wave shape and the excess pore water pressure was also analyzed. Results show that after four MICP treatments, the erosion resistance of the slope is significantly promoted, and no apparent erosion occurs after wave actions. The penetration resistance is also improved after MICP treatments, and the maximum penetration resistance of untreated and four-time MICP-treated slopes are about 0.14 MPa and 2.04 MPa, respectively. The calcium carbonate content on the slope surface can reach 7%. SEM analyses indicate that the intergranular bridging calcium carbonate crystals promote the wave erosion resistance of the sandy slope.
Interior Distance Ratio to a Regular Shape for Fast Shape Recognition
Authors: Li Zekun , Guo Baolong , Li Cheng
Published: October 2022

A fast shape recognition method based on regular graphic is proposed in this paper. It is the Interior Distance Ratio to a regular Shape (minimum bounding rectangle (MBR) or minimum circumscribed circle (MCC)) (SIDR). Regular shapes themselves have either axisymmetric or origin symmetry, which gives them regularity. Shape, as a feature of an object, plays a significant role in computer vision and image analysis. The shape descriptor is widely used to compute remarkable features of the visual image, especially in image understanding and analysis. SIDR is a new remarkable feature of the shape, which is the distribution of the interior distance between the shape contour points and its minimum bounding rectangle or minimum circumscribed circle. It can provide more effective performance support for practical application fields of computer vision, such as object detection and recognition. The minimum bounding rectangle or minimum circumscribed circle can change according to the change in a shape’s position, scale and direction, which is extremely suitable for describing a shape that has deformation. In addition, the rectangularity and circularity derived from them also have the potential peculiarity to describe the shape feature. Therefore, this paper uses the interior distance ratio of the shape to represent the shape feature. First, the minimum bounding rectangle or minimum circumscribed circle of the shape is selected according to the rectangularity and circularity of the shape. Then, the interior distance proportional distribution from the shape contour point to the minimum bounding rectangle or minimum circumscribed circle is obtained. Finally, a histogram is used to represent the distribution feature, and shape matching and recognition are carried out. A self-built dataset and three international generic datasets are used to verify the validity of the method. The performance exhibits the sophisticated property (accuracy and matching speed) of the proposed method. It is worth mentioning that this simple method has a recognition rate of close to 100% on the self-built dataset and has achieved excellent results for other datasets compared with some international state-of-the-art methods.
Some Insights Regarding Symmetry Relevance in Biomedicine
Authors: Ardigò Luca Paolo , Ouergui Ibrahim , Nobari Hadi , Formenti Damiano
Published: October 2022

The subject of symmetry has always been a matter of interest in biomedicine, particularly in exercise physiology and biomechanics [...]
Noncommutative Integration of Generalized Diffusion PDE
Authors: Ludkowski Sergey Victor
Published: October 2022

The article is devoted to the noncommutative integration of a diffusion partial differential equation (PDE). Its generalizations are also studied. This is motivated by the fact that many existing approaches for solutions of PDEs are based on evolutionary operators obtained as solutions of the corresponding stochastic PDEs. However, this is restricted to PDEs of an order not higher than 2 over the real or complex field. This article is aimed at extending such approaches to PDEs of an order higher than 2. For this purpose, measures and random functions having values in modules over complexified Cayley–Dickson algebras are investigated. Noncommutative integrals of hypercomplex random functions are investigated. By using them, the noncommutative integration of the generalized diffusion PDE is scrutinized. Possibilities are indicated for a subsequent solution of higher-order PDEs using their decompositions and noncommutative integration.
Approximating Common Solution of Minimization Problems Involving Asymptotically Quasi-Nonexpansive Multivalued Mappings
Authors: Wang Min , Ishtiaq Umar , Saleem Naeem , Agwu Imo Kalu
Published: October 2022

In this paper, an iterative scheme for finding common solutions of the set of fixed points for a pair of asymptotically quasi-nonexpansive mapping and the set of minimizers for the minimization problem is constructed. Using the idea of the jointly demicloseness principle, strong convergence results are achieved without imposing any compactness condition on the space or the operator. Our results improve, extend and generalize many important results in the literature.
Research on Tunnel Construction Monitoring Method Based on 3D Laser Scanning Technology
Authors: Wei Zheng , Wang Yinze , Weng Wenlin , Zhou Zhen , Li Zhenguo
Published: October 2022

A tunnel is a symmetric structure working under uncertain load. In the traditional method of monitoring and measurement of tunnel deformation, only a small number of symmetric measuring point displacements are engaged to represent the overall deformation of the tunnel, and it is difficult to fully reflect the displacement changes of the tunnel during the construction process. In this paper, a deformation monitoring method is proposed for the tunnel construction process based on 3D laser scanning technology. Initially, 3D laser scanning was used to obtain scattered clouds of irregular structures considering the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM). Afterward, the modified B-spline interpolation and greedy triangulation were used to fit the surfaces. Moreover, the normal vector matrix was innovatively applied to express the deformation of the tunnel fitting surface, which solved the problem of scattered point clouds in 3D laser scanning. A normal vector was obtained by the intersection of the normal of one fitted surface with the other. Subsequently, the maximum entropy method was introduced to form the probability density function of the normal vector, and the 1% and 5% probability eigenvalues were used to analyze the overall deformation trend of the tunnel. Finally, the eigenvalue of 5% probability, which was less affected by construction uncertainties, was selected for analysis. This way, the analysis and prediction method for overall tunnel deformation was established.
Redundant Posture Optimization for 6R Robotic Milling Based on Piecewise-Global-Optimization-Strategy Considering Stiffness, Singularity and Joint-Limit
Authors: Ni Hepeng , Ji Shuai , Ye Yingxin
Published: October 2022

Robotic machining has obtained growing attention recently because of the low cost, high flexibility and large workspace of industrial robots (IRs). Multiple degrees of freedom of IRs improve the dexterity of machining while causing the problem of redundancy. Meanwhile, the performance of IRs, such as their stiffness and dexterity, is affected by their position and posture obviously. Therefore, a redundant posture optimization method for robotic milling is proposed to improve the machining performance of the robot. The multiple characteristics of the robot are considered, including the joint-limit, singularity and stiffness, which have symmetry in its workspace. Firstly, the joint-limit is regarded as the constraint. And a symmetrical and effective constraint method is proposed to simply guarantee that all the interpolation points can avoid joint interference. Then, the performance indices of singularity and stiffness are designed as the optimization target. On this basis, the piecewise-global-optimization-strategy (PGOS) is proposed for redundant optimization. Owning to the PGOS, all the given planned tool points in their corresponding segment are considered simultaneously to avoid the gradual deterioration in traditional methods, which is especially suitable for the machining process with a continuous path. Moreover, the computational load of the optimization solution is considered and limited by the designed segmentation strategy. Finally, a series of comparative simulations are conducted to validate the good performance of the proposed method.
The Mei Symmetries for the Lagrangian Corresponding to the Schwarzschild Metric and the Kerr Black Hole Metric
Authors: Asghar Nimra Sher , Iftikhar Kinza , Feroze Tooba
Published: October 2022

In this paper, the Mei symmetries for the Lagrangians corresponding to the spherically and axially symmetric metrics are investigated. For this purpose, the Schwarzschild and Kerr black hole metrics are considered. Using the Mei symmetries criterion, we obtained four Mei symmetries for the Lagrangian of Schwarzschild and Kerr black hole metrics. The results reveal that, in the case of the Schwarzschild metric, the obtained Mei symmetries are a subset of the Lie point symmetries of equations of motion (geodesic equations), while in the case of the Kerr black hole metric, the Noether symmetry set is a subset of the Mei symmetry set and that Mei symmetries and the Lie point symmetries of the equations of motion are same.
Energy of Vague Fuzzy Graph Structure and Its Application in Decision Making
Authors: Li Shitao , Wan Chang , Talebi Ali Asghar , Mojahedfar Masomeh
Published: October 2022

Vague graphs (VGs), belonging to the fuzzy graphs (FGs) family, have good capabilities when faced with problems that cannot be expressed by FGs. The notion of a VG is a new mathematical attitude to model the ambiguity and uncertainty in decision-making issues. A vague fuzzy graph structure (VFGS) is the generalization of the VG. It is a powerful and useful tool to find the influential person in various relations. VFGSs can deal with the uncertainty associated with the inconsistent and indeterminate information of any real-world problems where fuzzy graphs may fail to reveal satisfactory results. Moreover, VGSs are very useful tools for the study of different domains of computer science such as networking, social systems, and other issues such as bioscience and medical science. The subject of energy in graph theory is one of the most attractive topics that is very important in biological and chemical sciences. Hence, in this work, we extend the notion of energy of a VG to the energy of a VFGS and also use the concept of energy in modeling problems related to VFGS. Actually, our purpose is to develop a notion of VFGS and investigate energy and Laplacian energy (LE) on this graph. We define the adjacency matrix (AM) concept, energy, and LE of a VFGS. Finally, we present three applications of the energy in decision-making problems.
Background Independence and Gauge Invariance in General Relativity Part 1—The Classical Theory
Authors: Tessarotto Massimo , Cremaschini Claudio
Published: October 2022

The implications of the principles of general and manifest covariance, together with those of the objectivity principle, are considered for the purpose of establishing a DeDonder–Weyl-type Hamiltonian variational formulation for classical general relativity. Based on the analysis of the Einstein–Hilbert variational principle, it is shown that only synchronous variational principles permit the construction of fully 4−tensor Lagrangian and Hamiltonian theories of this type. In addition, the possible validity of an extended Hamiltonian formulation in which Lagrangian variables include also the Ricci tensor is investigated and shown to occur provided the classical cosmological constant is non-vanishing.
Analytical Model with Independent Control of Load–Displacement Curve Branches for Brittle Material Strength Prediction Using Pre-Peak Test Loads
Authors: Kolesnikov Gennady , Zaitseva Maria , Petrov Aleksey
Published: October 2022

The relevance of problems related to the fracturing of engineering materials and structures will not decrease over time. Fracture mechanics methods continue to be developed, which, combined with numerical methods of computer modeling, are implemented in software packages. However, this is only one facet of the complex of actual problems related to modeling and analyzing the behavior of brittle materials. No less important are the problems of developing not only numerical, but also new analytical models. In this paper, analytical models of only one class are considered, the distinguishing feature of which is that they describe the full load–strain curve using only one equation. However, the determination of model parameters requires tests for which the destruction of the test object is necessary, which may be unacceptable if controlled destruction is technically impossible or economically unreasonable. At the same time, in practice, it is possible to obtain values of stresses and strains caused by loads smaller than the peak load. Pre-peak loads can be used to predict strength using numerical methods, but it is desirable to have a suitable analytical model to extend the capabilities and to reduce the cost of applied research. Such a model was not found in the known literature, which motivated this work, which aims to modify the analytical model to predict strength and the full load–displacement (or stress–strain) curve using only pre-peak loading. This study is based on the analysis of known data and synthesis using mathematical modeling and fracture mechanics. The input data for the model do not include the particle size distribution and other physical and mechanical properties of the components of the material under study. These properties may remain unknown, but their influence is taken into account indirectly according to the “black box” methodology. Restrictions of the scope of the model are defined. The simulation results are consistent with experiments known from the literature.
The Reliability of Fluctuating Asymmetry in Population Estimation: The Case of Feedlot Red Deer
Authors: Krapinec Krešimir , Jumić Vlado , Balekić Matija , Lolić Nikola , Putnik Radomir , Florijančić Tihomir , Ozimec Siniša , Bošković Ivica
Published: October 2022

Three FA indices showed correlations with age and magnitude of traits, but not in general. Significant correlations between magnitude of traits and their FA were more pronounced in AFA (12 traits) than in RFA (10 traits) in all age classes except yearlings. For the tray tine form (curvature), FA significantly correlated with its magnitude in young, middle-aged and ripe stags, which indicates that the trait is a reliable indicator of asymmetry. Significant differences in AFA among age classes were found in four traits (weight of dry antlers, volume of antlers, distal circumference of beams and total length of crown tines). By RFA, a significant difference among age classes was only found for the distal circumference of beams. Thus, AFA is a more vulnerable condition index. Contrary to other research findings, developmental instability was more pronounced in older age classes. In yearlings, no significant FA dependence on the trait of antler size was detected, but in certain traits, an asymmetry detected at an early age remains visible later as well, although in stags grown under relatively optimal (especially trophic) environment conditions, developmental instability was present anyway. This proposes two hypotheses for further research: Competition may be manifested even under controlled conditions, which might jeopardize the developmental stability of certain individuals, or some traits will show developmental instability regardless of relatively good environmental conditions.
The Analytical Solutions of Stochastic-Fractional Drinfel’d-Sokolov-Wilson Equations via (G′/G)-Expansion Method
Authors: Al-Askar Farah M. , Cesarano Clemente , Mohammed Wael W.
Published: October 2022

Fractional–stochastic Drinfel’d–Sokolov–Wilson equations (FSDSWEs) forced by multiplicative Brownian motion are assumed. This equation is employed in mathematical physics, plasma physics, surface physics, applied sciences, and population dynamics. The (G′/G)-expansion method is utilized to find rational, hyperbolic, and trigonometric stochastic solutions for FSDSWEs. Because of the priority of FSDSWEs, the derived solutions are more useful and effective in understanding various important physical phenomena. Furthermore, we used the MATLAB package to create 3D graphs for specific solutions in order to investigate the effect of fractional-order and Brownian motions on the solutions of FSDSWEs.
Predicting the Bioconcentration Factor in Fish from Molecular Structures
Authors: Bertato Linda , Chirico Nicola , Papa Ester
Published: October 2022

The bioconcentration factor (BCF) is one of the metrics used to evaluate the potential of a substance to bioaccumulate into aquatic organisms. In this work, linear and non-linear regression QSARs were developed for the prediction of log BCF using different computational approaches, and starting from a large and structurally heterogeneous dataset. The new MLR-OLS and ANN regression models have good fitting with R2 values of 0.62 and 0.70, respectively, and comparable external predictivity with R2ext 0.64 and 0.65 (RMSEext of 0.78 and 0.76), respectively. Furthermore, linear and non-linear classification models were developed using the regulatory threshold BCF >2000. A class balanced subset was used to develop classification models which were applied to chemicals not used to create the QSARs. These classification models are characterized by external and internal accuracy up to 84% and 90%, respectively, and sensitivity and specificity up to 90% and 80%, respectively. QSARs presented in this work are validated according to regulatory requirements and their quality is in line with other tools available for the same endpoint and dataset, with the advantage of low complexity and easy application through the software QSAR-ME Profiler. These QSARs can be used as alternatives for, or in combination with, existing models to support bioaccumulation assessment procedures.
Clinical Assessment of Acute Organophosphorus Pesticide Poisoning in Pediatric Patients Admitted to the Toxicology Emergency Department
Authors: Caba Ioana-Cezara , Ștreangă Violeta , Dobrin Mona-Elisabeta , Jităreanu Cristina , Jităreanu Alexandra , Profire Bianca-Ștefania , Apotrosoaei Maria , Focșa Alin-Viorel , Caba Bogdan , Agoroaei Luminița
Published: October 2022

Pesticide poisoning in pediatric patients is still an important reason for presenting to the emergency department in Romania. In this context, the present study aims to raise awareness of the toxicological impact of pesticides on human health in pediatrics. For this purpose, the demographic characteristics, clinical assessment, and outcome of pediatric patients with acute pesticide poisoning admitted to the toxicology department of “Saint Mary” Emergency Children’s Hospital from Iasi, were analyzed. This retrospective study focused on the clinical and laboratory data of patients aged under 18 years diagnosed with acute pesticide poisoning between 2010–2020. The statistical analysis was performed using the Statistica 10 package. A total of 49 patients presented with manifestations of acute pesticide poisoning, and the most common pesticide involved was diazinon. The most frequent exposure route was accidentally ingesting pesticide products (95%). The primary clinical manifestations were toxic encephalopathy, coma, depressive disorder, gastric disorders, and respiratory failure. Changes in the glycemic status, liver, and kidney damage were also present. Treatment included decontamination, administration of antidote, supportive care, and recommendations to be closely monitored to avoid a new incident. These results highlight the toxic potential of pesticides on human health and their biological consequences, which require an increase in consciousness of the precautions imposed on their use, especially when children are nearby.
Africanized Bee Venom (Apis mellifera Linnaeus): Neuroprotective Effects in a Parkinson’s Disease Mouse Model Induced by 6-hydroxydopamine
Authors: Dantas Camila G. , da Paixão Ailma O. , Nunes Tássia L. G. M. , Silva Italo J. F. , dos S. Lima Bruno , Araújo Adriano A. S. , de Albuquerque-Junior Ricardo L. C. , Gramacho Kátia P. , Padilha Francine F. , da Costa Luiz P. , Severino Patricia , Cardoso Juliana C. , Souto Eliana B. , Gomes Margarete Z.
Published: October 2022

This study evaluated the neuroprotective effects of the Africanized bee venom (BV) and its mechanisms of action after 6-hydroxydopamine-(6-OHDA)-induced lesion in a mice model. Prior to BV treatment, mice received intrastriatal microinjections of 6-OHDA (no induced dopaminergic neuronal death) or ascorbate saline (as a control). BV was administered subcutaneously at different dosages (0.01, 0.05 or 0.1 mg·Kg−1) once every two days over a period of 3 weeks. The open field test was carried out, together with the immunohistochemical and histopathological analysis. The chemical composition of BV was also assessed, identifying the highest concentrations of apamin, phospholipase A2 and melittin. In the behavioral evaluation, the BV (0.1 mg·Kg−1) counteracted the 6-OHDA-induced decrease in crossings and rearing. 6-OHDA caused loss of dopaminergic cell bodies in the substantia nigra pars compacta and fibers in striatum (STR). Mice that received 0.01 mg·Kg−1 showed significant increase in the mean survival of dopaminergic cell bodies. Increased astrocytic infiltration occurred in the STR of 6-OHDA injected mice, differently from those of the groups treated with BV. The results suggested that Africanized BV has neuroprotective activity in an animal model of Parkinson’s disease.
Selected Biochemical Markers Change after Oral Administration of Pesticide Mixtures in Honey Bees
Authors: Migdal Pawel , Murawska Agnieszka , Berbeć Ewelina , Plotnik Mateusz , Skorus Anita , Latarowski Krzysztof
Published: October 2022

The honey bee is an important pollinator. In the environment, it can be exposed to many harmful factors, such as pesticides. Nowadays, attention is paid to evaluating the potentially harmful effects of these substances. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of worst-case environmental concentrations of pesticide mixtures on honey bee survival and selected physiological markers (the activity of ALT, AST, ALP, and GGTP, and the concentration of albumin, creatinine, urea, and uric acid). Pesticides of three different groups (insecticide—acetamiprid, herbicide—glyphosate, and fungicide—tebuconazole) and their mixtures were resolved in 50% (w/v) sucrose solution and given to bees ad libitum. After 24 h, hemolymph was collected. All mixtures caused higher mortality than single pesticides. Pesticides in mixtures caused disturbances in biochemical markers, and in some cases the interaction between pesticides was synergistic. The mixtures had individual effects on physiology, and the results were sensitive to changes in proportions.
Use of e-Cigarettes and Attendance at Stop Smoking Services: A Population Survey in England
Authors: Hartwell Greg , Egan Matt , Brown Jamie , Pliakas Triantafyllos , Petticrew Mark
Published: October 2022

Little is known about whether e-cigarette use influences tobacco smokers’ decisions around other smoking cessation options, including the most effective one available: stop smoking service (SSS) attendance. Our repeat cross-sectional survey therefore assessed associations between use of e-cigarettes with past and planned future uptake of SSSs. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) use was also assessed as a comparator. Participants were drawn from the Smoking Toolkit Study, a nationally representative, validated, face-to-face survey. Data were aggregated on 2139 English adults reporting current smoking of cigarettes or other tobacco products. Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for potential confounders. Results showed dual users of combustible tobacco and e-cigarettes were more likely than other smokers to report having accessed SSSs in the past (AOR 1.43, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.90) and intending to take up these services in future (AOR 1.51, 95% CI 1.14 to 2.00). Dual users of combustible tobacco and NRT showed similar associations. Secondary objectives provided evidence on key psychosocial factors that influenced smokers’ decision-making in this area. In summary, despite speculation that e-cigarette use might deter smokers from accessing SSSs, our study found dual users of tobacco and e-cigarettes were more likely to report uptake of such services, compared to smokers not using e-cigarettes.
Lead Exposure in Infancy and Subsequent Growth in Beninese Children
Authors: Ahmadi Shukrullah , Botton Jérémie , Zoumenou Roméo , Ayotte Pierre , Fievet Nadine , Massougbodji Achille , Alao Maroufou Jules , Cot Michel , Glorennec Philippe , Bodeau-Livinec Florence
Published: October 2022

Studies suggest that elevated postnatal blood lead levels (BLLs) are negatively associated with child growth. This study aimed to investigate the associations of childhood BLLs at age one year and growth outcomes at age six years (n = 661) in a cohort of children in Allada, Benin. The growth outcomes studied are weight-for-age Z-score (WAZ), height-for-age Z-score (HAZ), BMI-for-age Z-score (BMIZ), weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ), head circumference (HC), growth velocities, underweight, stunting, and wasting. Multivariable regression models examined the associations between BLLs and growth outcomes, with adjustment for potential confounders. The geometric mean BLLs was 59.3 μg/L and 82% of children had BLLs >35 μg/L at the age of 12.8 months. After adjusting for confounding factors, no overall association was found between BLL quartiles and HAZ, WAZ, BMIZ, WHZ, growth velocities, wasting, and underweight. However, boys in the highest quartile had a 1.02 cm lower HC (95% CI: [−1.81, −0.24]) as compared to the lowest quartile. Furthermore, an increased odds of being stunted was observed in children in the highest quartile of exposure compared to the first (OR: 2.43; 95% CI: [1.11–5.33]) which remained statistically significant only among girls in sex-specific strata. Blood lead was found to be associated with an increased risk of childhood stunting and a lower head circumference in a resource-limited setting.
Exposure to Microplastics during Early Developmental Stage: Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Amran Nur Hanisah , Zaid Siti Sarah Mohamad , Mokhtar Mohd Helmy , Manaf Latifah Abd , Othman Shatrah
Published: October 2022

In the last few decades, microplastics (MPs) have been among the emerging environmental pollutants that have received serious attention from scientists and the general population due to their wide range of potentially harmful effects on living organisms. MPs may originate from primary sources (micro-sized plastics manufactured on purpose) and secondary sources (breakdown of large plastic items through physical, chemical, and biological processes). Consequently, serious concerns are escalating because MPs can be easily disseminated and contaminate environments, including terrestrial, air, groundwater, marine, and freshwater systems. Furthermore, an exposure to even low doses of MPs during the early developmental stage may induce long-term health effects, even later in life. Accordingly, this study aims to gather the current evidence regarding the effects of MPs exposure on vital body systems, including the digestive, reproductive, central nervous, immune, and circulatory systems, during the early developmental stage. In addition, this study provides essential information about the possible emergence of various diseases later in life (i.e., adulthood).
Tardive Oromandibular Dystonia Induced by Trazodone: A Clinical Case and Management from the Perspective of the Dental Specialist
Authors: Skarmeta Nicolás P. , Katzmann Giannina C. , Valdés Constanza , Gaedechens Dominique , Montini Francisca C.
Published: October 2022

Background: Tardive Oromandibular Dystonia is an iatrogenic drug-induced movement form of extrapyramidal symptoms associated primarily with chronic consumption of dopamine receptor blocking agents. Tardive symptoms attributable to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors antidepressants are far less prevalent. Clinical Case: The authors will present a clinical case and management, from the dental specialist perspective, of a 55-year-old female patient who developed tardive oromandibular dystonia induced by Trazodone prescribed for sleep insomnia. Conclusions: Trazodone-induced oromandibular dystonia is extremely rare. Early identification and assessment of tardive symptoms are imperative for successful treatment. Trazodone should be prescribed with caution in patients taking other medications with the potential to cause tardive syndromes.