bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Block-Based Compression and Corresponding Hardware Circuits for Sparse Activations
Authors: Weng Yui-Kai , Huang Shih-Hsu , Kao Hsu-Yu
Published: November 2021

In a CNN (convolutional neural network) accelerator, to reduce memory traffic and power consumption, there is a need to exploit the sparsity of activation values. Therefore, some research efforts have been paid to skip ineffectual computations (i.e., multiplications by zero). Different from previous works, in this paper, we point out the similarity of activation values: (1) in the same layer of a CNN model, most feature maps are either highly dense or highly sparse; (2) in the same layer of a CNN model, feature maps in different channels are often similar. Based on the two observations, we propose a block-based compression approach, which utilizes both the sparsity and the similarity of activation values to further reduce the data volume. Moreover, we also design an encoder, a decoder and an indexing module to support the proposed approach. The encoder is used to translate output activations into the proposed block-based compression format, while both the decoder and the indexing module are used to align nonzero values for effectual computations. Compared with previous works, benchmark data consistently show that the proposed approach can greatly reduce both memory traffic and power consumption.
Infer Thermal Information from Visual Information: A Cross Imaging Modality Edge Learning (CIMEL) Framework
Authors: Wang Shuozhi , Mei Jianqiang , Yang Lichao , Zhao Yifan
Published: November 2021

The measurement accuracy and reliability of thermography is largely limited by a relatively low spatial-resolution of infrared (IR) cameras in comparison to digital cameras. Using a high-end IR camera to achieve high spatial-resolution can be costly or sometimes infeasible due to the high sample rate required. Therefore, there is a strong demand to improve the quality of IR images, particularly on edges, without upgrading the hardware in the context of surveillance and industrial inspection systems. This paper proposes a novel Conditional Generative Adversarial Networks (CGAN)-based framework to enhance IR edges by learning high-frequency features from corresponding visual images. A dual-discriminator, focusing on edge and content/background, is introduced to guide the cross imaging modality learning procedure of the U-Net generator in high and low frequencies respectively. Results demonstrate that the proposed framework can effectively enhance barely visible edges in IR images without introducing artefacts, meanwhile the content information is well preserved. Different from most similar studies, this method only requires IR images for testing, which will increase the applicability of some scenarios where only one imaging modality is available, such as active thermography.
Use of Plantar Pressure Sensors to Take Weight-Bearing Foot Casts
Authors: Panera-Rico Enrique , Castillo-López José Manuel , Palomo-Toucedo Inmaculada Concepción , Chacón-Giráldez Fernando , Ramos-Ortega Javier , Domínguez-Maldonado Gabriel
Published: November 2021

Techniques of taking casts mainly rely not on the objectivity of the procedure, but on the experience and skill of the technician. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficiency of a technique of taking standing foot casts controlled via pressure sensors. In this way, we mean to objectivize the degree of correction. The study was carried out through 150 procedures on 50 feet of 29 patients. The value of the “Heel Symmetry Index” was calculated on three casts in three different situations of the same foot: A first cast in which the subject did not control the position of his/her foot; a second cast where manipulations corrected the foot’s pronator position; and a third cast with pressure sensors placed in the subject’s heel. This enabled the control and quantification of the pressure during the manipulation when taking the cast. The comparison of the “Heel Symmetry Index” in the different groups showed significant p-values of 0.05. Conclusion: The technique of taking casts controlled by pressure sensors achieved more equilibrated casts with a better symmetry index of the heel’s outline.
The Acoustic System of the Fendouzhe HOV
Authors: Liu Yeyao , Xue Jingfeng , Yang Bo , Zhu Min , Guo Weizhen , Pan Feng , Ye Cong , Wang Wei , Liang Tao , Li Xinguo , Zhang Linyuan
Published: November 2021

Due to the strong absorption and attenuation of electromagnetic waves by water, radio communications and global positioning systems are lacking in the deep-sea environment. Therefore, underwater long-distance communications, positioning, detection and other functions depend on acoustic technology. In order to realize the above functions, the acoustic system of the Fendouzhe human occupied vehicle (HOV) is composed of eight kinds of sonars and sensors, which is one of the core systems of manned submersible. Based on the Jiaolong/Shenhai Yongshi HOVs, the acoustic system of the Fendouzhe HOV has been developed. Compared with the previous technology, there are many technical improvements and innovations: 10,000-m underwater acoustic communication, 10,000-m underwater acoustic positioning, multi-beam forward-looking imaging sonar, an integrated navigation system, etc. This study introduces the structure of the acoustic system of the Fendouzhe HOV and the technical improvements compared with the Jiaolong/Shenhai Yongshi HOVs. The results of the acoustic system are illustrated by the 10,000-m sea trails in the Mariana Trench from October to December 2020.
Differential Diagnosis of Cysts and Granulomas Supported by Texture Analysis of Intraoral Radiographs
Authors: Pociask Elżbieta , Nurzynska Karolina , Obuchowicz Rafał , Bałon Paulina , Uryga Daniel , Strzelecki Michał , Izworski Andrzej , Piórkowski Adam
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether textural analysis could differentiate between the two common types of lytic lesions imaged with use of radiography. Sixty-two patients were enrolled in the study with intraoral radiograph images and a histological reference study. Full textural analysis was performed using MaZda software. For over 10,000 features, logistic regression models were applied. Fragments containing lesion edges were characterized by significant correlation of structural information. Although the input images were stored using lossy compression and their scale was not preserved, the obtained results confirmed the possibility of distinguishing between cysts and granulomas with use of textural analysis of intraoral radiographs. It was shown that the important information distinguishing the aforementioned types of lesions is located at the edges and not within the lesion.
Electromyography, Stiffness and Kinematics of Resisted Sprint Training in the Specialized SKILLRUN® Treadmill Using Different Load Conditions in Rugby Players
Authors: Martínez-Serrano Antonio , Marín-Cascales Elena , Spyrou Konstantinos , Freitas Tomás T. , Alcaraz Pedro E.
Published: November 2021

This study’s aim was to analyze muscle activation and kinematics of sled-pushing and resisted-parachute sprinting with three load conditions on an instrumentalized SKILLRUN® treadmill. Nine male amateur rugby union players (21.3 ± 4.3 years, 75.8 ± 10.2 kg, 176.6 ± 8.8 cm) performed a sled-push session consisting of three 15-m repetitions at 20%, 55% and 90% body mas and another resisted-parachute session using three different parachute sizes (XS, XL and 3XL). Sprinting kinematics and muscle activity of three lower-limb muscles (biceps femoris (BF), vastus lateralis (VL) and gastrocnemius medialis (GM)) were measured. A repeated-measures analysis of variance (RM-ANOVA) showed that higher loads during the sled-push increased (VL) (p ≤ 0.001) and (GM) (p ≤ 0.001) but not (BF) (p = 0.278) activity. Furthermore, it caused significant changes in sprinting kinematics, stiffness and joint angles. Resisted-parachute sprinting did not change kinematics or muscle activation, despite producing a significant overload (i.e., speed loss). In conclusion, increased sled-push loading caused disruptions in sprinting technique and altered lower-limb muscle activation patterns as opposed to the resisted-parachute. These findings might help practitioners determine the more adequate resisted sprint exercise and load according to the training objective (e.g., power production or speed performance).
Excel Methods to Design and Validate in Microelectronics (Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor, CMOS) for Biomedical Instrumentation Application
Authors: Dieck-Assad Graciano , Rodríguez-Delgado José Manuel , González Peña Omar Israel
Published: November 2021

CMOS microelectronics design has evolved tremendously during the last two decades. The evolution of CMOS devices to short channel designs where the feature size is below 1000 nm brings a great deal of uncertainty in the way the microelectronics design cycle is completed. After the conceptual idea, developing a thinking model to understand the operation of the device requires a good “ballpark” evaluation of transistor sizes, decision making, and assumptions to fulfill the specifications. This design process has iterations to meet specifications that exceed in number of the available degrees of freedom to maneuver the design. Once the thinking model is developed, the simulation validation follows to test if the design has a good possibility of delivering a successful prototype. If the simulation provides a good match between specifications and results, then the layout is developed. This paper shows a useful open science strategy, using the Excel software, to develop CMOS microelectronics hand calculations to verify a design, before performing the computer simulation and layout of CMOS analog integrated circuits. The full methodology is described to develop designs of passive components, as well as CMOS amplifiers. The methods are used in teaching CMOS microelectronics to students of electronic engineering with industrial partner participation. This paper describes an exhaustive example of a low-voltage operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) design which is used to design an instrumentation amplifier. Finally, a test is performed using this instrumentation amplifier to implement a front-end signal conditioning device for CMOS-MEMS biomedical applications.
Realization of Force Detection and Feedback Control for Slave Manipulator of Master/Slave Surgical Robot
Authors: Shi Hu , Zhang Boyang , Mei Xuesong , Song Qichun
Published: November 2021

Robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has received increasing attention, both in the academic field and clinical operation. Master/slave control is the most widely adopted manipulation mode for surgical robots. Thus, sensing the force of the surgical instruments located at the end of the slave manipulator through the main manipulator is critical to the operation. This study mainly addressed the force detection of the surgical instrument and force feedback control of the serial surgical robotic arm. A measurement device was developed to record the tool end force from the slave manipulator. An elastic element with an orthogonal beam structure was designed to sense the strain induced by force interactions. The relationship between the acting force and the output voltage was obtained through experiment, and the three-dimensional force output was decomposed using an extreme learning machine algorithm while considering the nonlinearity. The control of the force from the slave manipulator end was achieved. An impedance control strategy was adopted to restrict the force interaction amplitude. Modeling, simulation, and experimental verification were completed on the serial robotic manipulator platform along with virtual control in the MATLAB/Simulink software environment. The experimental results show that the measured force from the slave manipulator can provide feedback for impedance control with a delay of 0.15 s.
Manufacturing of Microfluidic Devices with Interchangeable Commercial Fiber Optic Sensors
Authors: Wlodarczyk Krystian L. , MacPherson William N. , Hand Duncan P. , Maroto-Valer M. Mercedes
Published: November 2021

In situ measurements are highly desirable in many microfluidic applications because they enable real-time, local monitoring of physical and chemical parameters, providing valuable insight into microscopic events and processes that occur in microfluidic devices. Unfortunately, the manufacturing of microfluidic devices with integrated sensors can be time-consuming, expensive, and “know-how” demanding. In this article, we describe an easy-to-implement method developed to integrate various “off-the-shelf” fiber optic sensors within microfluidic devices. To demonstrate this, we used commercial pH and pressure sensors (“pH SensorPlugs” and “FOP-MIV”, respectively), which were “reversibly” attached to a glass microfluidic device using custom 3D-printed connectors. The microfluidic device, which serves here as a demonstrator, incorporates a uniform porous structure and was manufactured using a picosecond pulsed laser. The sensors were attached to the inlet and outlet channels of the microfluidic pattern to perform simple experiments, the aim of which was to evaluate the performance of both the connectors and the sensors in a practical microfluidic environment. The bespoke connectors ensured robust and watertight connection, allowing the sensors to be safely disconnected if necessary, without damaging the microfluidic device. The pH SensorPlugs were tested with a pH 7.01 buffer solution. They measured the correct pH values with an accuracy of ±0.05 pH once sufficient contact between the injected fluid and the measuring element (optode) was established. In turn, the FOP-MIV sensors were used to measure local pressure in the inlet and outlet channels during injection and the steady flow of deionized water at different rates. These sensors were calibrated up to 140 mbar and provided pressure measurements with an uncertainty that was less than ±1.5 mbar. Readouts at a rate of 4 Hz allowed us to observe dynamic pressure changes in the device during the displacement of air by water. In the case of steady flow of water, the pressure difference between the two measuring points increased linearly with increasing flow rate, complying with Darcy’s law for incompressible fluids. These data can be used to determine the permeability of the porous structure within the device.
A New Multidimensional Repulsive Potential Field to Avoid Obstacles by Nonholonomic UAVs in Dynamic Environments
Authors: Kownacki Cezary , Ambroziak Leszek
Published: November 2021

The ability of autonomous flight with obstacle avoidance should be a fundamental feature of all modern unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The complexity and difficulty of such a task, however, significantly increase in cases combining moving obstacles and nonholonomic UAVs. Additionally, since they assume the symmetrical distribution of repulsive forces around obstacles, traditional repulsive potential fields are not well suited for nonholonomic vehicles. The limited maneuverability of these types of UAVs, including fixed-wing aircraft, requires consideration not only of their relative position, but also their speed as well as the direction in which the obstacles are moving. To address this issue, the following work presents a novel multidimensional repulsive potential field dedicated to nonholonomic UAVs. This field generates forces that repulse the UAV not from the obstacle’s geometrical center, but from areas immediately behind and in front of it located along a line defined by the obstacle’s velocity vector. The strength of the repulsive force depends on the UAV’s distance to the line representing the obstacle’s movement direction, distance to the obstacle along that line, and the relative speed between the UAV and the obstacle projected to the line, making the proposed repulsive potential field multidimensional. Numerical simulations presented within the paper prove the effectiveness of the proposed novel repulsive potential field in controlling the flight of nonholonomic UAVs.
Deep-Learning-Based Stress Recognition with Spatial-Temporal Facial Information
Authors: Jeon Taejae , Bae Han Byeol , Lee Yongju , Jang Sungjun , Lee Sangyoun
Published: November 2021

In recent times, as interest in stress control has increased, many studies on stress recognition have been conducted. Several studies have been based on physiological signals, but the disadvantage of this strategy is that it requires physiological-signal-acquisition devices. Another strategy employs facial-image-based stress-recognition methods, which do not require devices, but predominantly use handcrafted features. However, such features have low discriminating power. We propose a deep-learning-based stress-recognition method using facial images to address these challenges. Given that deep-learning methods require extensive data, we constructed a large-capacity image database for stress recognition. Furthermore, we used temporal attention, which assigns a high weight to frames that are highly related to stress, as well as spatial attention, which assigns a high weight to regions that are highly related to stress. By adding a network that inputs the facial landmark information closely related to stress, we supplemented the network that receives only facial images as the input. Experimental results on our newly constructed database indicated that the proposed method outperforms contemporary deep-learning-based recognition methods.
Self-Regulated Particle Swarm Multi-Task Optimization
Authors: Zheng Xiaolong , Zhou Deyun , Li Na , Wu Tao , Lei Yu , Shi Jiao
Published: November 2021

Population based search techniques have been developed and applied to wide applications for their good performance, such as the optimization of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) path planning problems. However, the search for optimal solutions for an optimization problem is usually expensive. For example, the UAV problem is a large-scale optimization problem with many constraints, which makes it hard to get exact solutions. Especially, it will be time-consuming when multiple UAV problems are waiting to be optimized at the same time. Evolutionary multi-task optimization (EMTO) studies the problem of utilizing the population-based characteristics of evolutionary computation techniques to optimize multiple optimization problems simultaneously, for the purpose of further improving the overall performance of resolving all these problems. EMTO has great potential in solving real-world problems more efficiently. Therefore, in this paper, we develop a novel EMTO algorithm using a classical PSO algorithm, in which the developed knowledge transfer strategy achieves knowledge transfer between task by synthesizing the transferred knowledges from a selected set of component tasks during the updating of the velocities of population. Two knowledge transfer strategies are developed along with two versions of the proposed algorithm. The proposed algorithm is compared with the multifactorial PSO algorithm, the SREMTO algorithm, the popular multifactorial evolutionary algorithm and a classical PSO algorithm on nine popular single-objective MTO problems and six five-task MTO problems, which demonstrates its superiority.
Fault Diagnosis of Permanent Magnet DC Motors Based on Multi-Segment Feature Extraction
Authors: Lu Lixin , Wang Weihao
Published: November 2021

For permanent magnet DC motors (PMDCMs), the amplitude of the current signals gradually decreases after the motor starts. Only using the signal features of current in a single segment is not conducive to fault diagnosis for PMDCMs. In this work, multi-segment feature extraction is presented for improving the effect of fault diagnosis of PMDCMs. Additionally, a support vector machine (SVM), a classification and regression tree (CART), and the k-nearest neighbor algorithm (k-NN) are utilized for the construction of fault diagnosis models. The time domain features extracted from several successive segments of current signals make up a feature vector, which is adopted for fault diagnosis of PMDCMs. Experimental results show that multi-segment features have a better diagnostic effect than single-segment features; the average accuracy of fault diagnosis improves by 19.88%. This paper lays the foundation of fault diagnosis for PMDCMs through multi-segment feature extraction and provides a novel method for feature extraction.
Filtering Facepiece Respirator Supply Chain Management Framework in a Disaster Such as COVID-19
Authors: Kim Kihyung , Zhao Li
Published: November 2021

Due to the lack of vaccines and treatments, filtering facepiece respirators are a primary and effective tool to dampen the spread of COVID-19. To meet the huge and continuous demand for filtering facepiece respirators, this concept paper suggests a supply chain management framework based on the disaster management principle. This concept paper adopts an exploratory and qualitative literature review to provide managerial insights for the supply chain participants. Due to implementation delay and strategic interdependency, the supply chain management strategies need to be systematically integrated. A viable way to integrate strategies is based on the disaster management cycle: mitigation, preparation, response, and recovery phases. Our model integrates innovative and successful but overlooked supply chain management strategies. First, the production capacity should be flexible so that the production mode in emergency and normal situations can be different. Second, the concept paper and development facilities can utilize their capacities for actual production in emergencies. Third, the quality certification process should accommodate the flexible production capacities. Fourth, inventory stockpiling should be renewable. This concept paper contributes to policymakers, healthcare sector decision-makers, stakeholders throughout the FFR supply chain to cope with future crises caused by pandemics by providing a systematic approach to constructing an effective, flexible, and resilient supply chain.
Blockchain Technology for Governance of Plastic Waste Management: Where Are We?
Authors: Steenmans Katrien , Taylor Phillip , Steenmans Ine
Published: November 2021

Blockchain technology is emerging as a plausible disruptor of waste management practices that influence the governance of plastics. The interest among the waste management community in the potential and fundamental changes to complex resource management associated with blockchain adoption parallels recent research in other sectors, such as finance, health, public administration, etc. During any comparable period characterized by a step-change in positive coverage of an early-stage technology, it can be challenging for actors to access a grounded, evidence-based oversight of the current state of practice and make informed decisions about whether or how to adopt blockchain technology. The current absence of such a systematic overview of recent experiences with blockchain initiatives disrupting waste practices not only limits the visibility of these experimental efforts, but also limits the learning that can be shared across waste plastics researcher and practitioner communities. This paper contributes with a current overview of blockchain technology adoption in the waste management sector, giving particular attention to implications for the governance of plastics. Our study draws on both primary interview data and secondary documentation data to map the landscape of current blockchain initiatives in the global waste sector. We identify four areas of blockchain use that are beginning to change waste management practices (payment, recycling and reuse rewards, monitoring and tracking of waste, and smart contracts). We conclude by outlining five areas of significant blockchain uses, implications, and influences of relevance to the development of circular plastic waste governance in both research and practice.
Local Resident Attitudes to the Sustainable Development of Urban Public Transport System
Authors: Sidorchuk Roman Roaljdovich , Lukina Anastasia Vladimirovna , Mkhitaryan Sergey Vladimirovich , Skorobogatykh Irina Ivanovna , Stukalova Anastasia Alexeevna
Published: November 2021

This article presents a study of the attitude of metropolis residents to the environmental development of the urban public transport system. The authors set a goal to assess the influence of values on the assessment of environmental initiatives of city authorities in the field of public transport and their attitude to innovations in this sphere. In the course of the study, four clusters reflecting the values of the respondents were identified. The results showed support for innovations that do not require changes in the transport behavior of the individual. At the same time, we observe differences in the perception of initiatives by representatives of different clusters when the innovation affects their transportation behavior. Hypotheses were tested as an analysis result of empirical data by determining the synthetic indices of values using factor analysis, the classification of respondents based on the obtained indices to identify groups with similar values using cluster analysis, and an analysis of the relationship of the classification results by values using contingency tables and chi-square criterion. The scientific novelty of the study is to assess the impact of values of metropolis residents on the perception of environmental conditions and their change in the city.
Circular Project Selection: How Companies Can Evaluate Circular Innovation Projects
Authors: Eisenreich Anja , Füller Johann , Stuchtey Martin
Published: November 2021

For a transition toward the circular economy (CE) at the firm level, circular innovations are an essential requirement. Many companies are still hesitant to introduce circular solutions, as their future success chances are difficult to predict. Circular solutions often imply a high uncertainty and complexity because they are designed over multiple life cycles and are strongly interconnected with diverse stakeholders. Therefore, an effective selection process tailored to circular innovation is of great advantage. This study examines circular project selection by investigating selection processes and evaluation criteria for circular innovation management. A qualitative research design was chosen, including 18 in-depth interviews with CE experts and representatives from CE pioneer companies. Findings on the selection process show that circular innovation projects are often embedded in a strategic CE framework decision. Whereas idea generation is usually approached bottom-up involving different stakeholders, project evaluation is rather performed top-down by top management or in cross-functional teams. Furthermore, the study discusses evaluation criteria and their CE implications in detail and structures them into a criteria framework that can be used in multi-criteria decision models. This paper makes a theoretical contribution by connecting innovation and CE literature and by providing new knowledge on the still scarcely explored topic of circular project selection. As practical contribution, the study guides managers on how to approach project selection in circular innovation management and thus supports their development toward a CE.
Internet Development, Level of Industrial Synergy, and Urban Innovation
Authors: Zhang Hongxia , Sun Zixuan , Elahi Ehsan , Zhang Yuge
Published: November 2021

Innovation increases total factor productivity and leads to economic development. Based on panel data of 284 prefecture-level cities from 2001 to 2018, the current study uses a dynamic panel data model to empirically test the global and heterogeneous effects of internet development and industrial synergy on the level of urban innovation. Results found that the internet development significantly promoted the urban innovation level, and industrial collaboration was found to have a positive impact on the urban innovation level. Moreover, it was determined that the regulatory effect of the internet promoted industrial collaboration to improve the level of urban innovation. Variations in the impact of internet development and the industrial collaboration level on the urban innovation level were found in cities. Particularly, the impact of internet development and the industrial collaboration level on the urban innovation level in high-level cities was less significant. A positive role of the government is required to improve the level of urban innovation. Particularly, it is required to connect enterprises with universities to exchange scientific and technological knowledge, thereby improving urban innovation.
On a Conjecture for the One-Dimensional Perturbed Gelfand Problem for the Combustion Theory
Authors: Qin Huizeng , Lu Youmin
Published: November 2021

We investigate the well-known one-dimensional perturbed Gelfand boundary value problem and approximate the values of α0,λ* and λ* such that this problem has a unique solution when 0<α<α0 and λ>0, and has three solutions when α>α0 and λ*<λ<λ*. The solutions of this problem are always even functions due to its symmetric boundary values and autonomous characteristics. We use numerical computation to show that 4.0686722336<α0<4.0686722344. This result improves the existing result for α0≈4.069 and increases the accuracy of α0 to 10−8. We developed an algorithm that reduces errors and increases efficiency in our computation. The interval of λ for this problem to have three solutions for given values of α is also computed with accuracy up to 10−14.
Exploration of Extended Higgs Sectors with Run-2 Proton–Proton Collision Data at the LHC
Authors: Ferrari Arnaud , Rompotis Nikolaos
Published: November 2021

One doublet of complex scalar fields is the minimal content of the Higgs sector in order to achieve spontaneous electroweak symmetry breaking and, in turn, to generate the masses of fundamental particles in the Standard Model. However, several theories beyond the Standard Model predict a nonminimal Higgs sector and introduce additional singlets, doublets or even higher-order weak isospin representations, thereby yielding additional Higgs bosons. With its high proton–proton collision energy (13 TeV during Run-2), the Large Hadron Collider opens a new window towards the exploration of extended Higgs sectors. This review article summarises the current state-of-the-art experimental results recently obtained in searches for new neutral and charged Higgs bosons with a partial or full Run-2 dataset.
The Surjective Mapping Conjecture and the Measurement Problem in Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Bopp Fritz Wilhelm
Published: November 2021

Accepting a time-symmetric quantum dynamical world with ontological wave functions or fields, we follow arguments that naturally lead to a two-boundary interpretation of quantum mechanics. The usual two boundary picture is a valid superdeterministic interpretation. It has, however, one unsatisfactory feature. The random selection of a chosen measurement path of the universe is far too complicated. To avoid it, we propose an alternate two-boundary concept called surjective mapping conjecture. It takes as fundamental a quantum-time running forward like the usual time on the wave-function side and backward on the complex conjugate side. Unrelated fixed arbitrary boundary conditions at the initial and the final quantum times then determine the measurement path of the expanding and contracting quantum-time universe in the required way.
Analysis of Free Vibration Characteristics of Cylindrical Shells with Finite Submerged Depth Based on Energy Variational Principle
Authors: Nie Rui , Li Tianyun , Zhu Xiang , Zhang Cheng
Published: November 2021

Based on the principle of energy variation, a calculation model for the free vibration characteristics of a cylindrical shell with a finite submerged depth considering the influence of the free liquid surface is established in this paper. First, the Euler beam function is used instead of the shell axial displacement function to obtain the shell kinetic energy and potential energy. Then, by using the mirror image method, the analytical expression of the fluid velocity potential considering the free surface is obtained, and the flow field is added to the system energy functional in the form of fluid work. Then the energy functional is changed to obtain the shell–liquid coupled vibration equation. Solving the equation can obtain the natural frequencies and modes of the structure. The comparison with the finite element calculation results verifies the accuracy of the calculation model in this paper. The research on the influence of the free liquid surface shows that compared to the infinite domain, the free liquid surface destroys the symmetry of the entire system, resulting in a difference in the natural frequency of the positive and negative modes of the shell, and the circumferential mode shapes are no longer mutually uncoupled trigonometric functions. The existence of free liquid surface will also increase the natural frequency of the same order mode, and the closer to the free surface, the natural frequency is greater. As the immersion depth increases, the free vibration characteristics will quickly tend to the result of infinite domain. Additionally, when the immersion depth is equal to or greater than four times the radius of the shell structure, it can be considered that the free liquid surface has no effect. These law and phenomena have also been explained from the mechanism. The method in this paper provides a new analytical solution pattern for solving this type of problem.
Could Contamination Avoidance Be an Endpoint That Protects the Environment? An Overview on How Species Respond to Copper, Glyphosate, and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Alcívar M. Antonella , Sendra Marta , Silva Daniel C. V. R. , González-Ortegón Enrique , Blasco Julián , Moreno-Garrido Ignacio , Araújo Cristiano V. M.
Published: November 2021

The use of non-forced multi-compartmented exposure systems has gained importance in the assessment of the contamination-driven spatial avoidance response. This new paradigm of exposure makes it possible to assess how contaminants fragment habitats, interfering in the spatial distribution and species’ habitat selection processes. In this approach, organisms are exposed to a chemically heterogeneous scenario (a gradient or patches of contamination) and the response is focused on identifying the contamination levels considered aversive for organisms. Despite the interesting results that have been recently published, the use of this approach in ecotoxicological risk studies is still incipient. The current review aims to show the sensitivity of spatial avoidance in non-forced exposure systems in comparison with the traditional endpoints used in ecotoxicology under forced exposure. To do this, we have used the sensitivity profile by biological groups (SPBG) to offer an overview of the highly sensitive biological groups and the species sensitive distribution (SSD) to estimate the hazard concentration for 5% of the species (HC5). Three chemically different compounds were selected for this review: copper, glyphosate, and Ag-NPs. The results show that contamination-driven spatial avoidance is a very sensitive endpoint that could be integrated as a complementary tool to ecotoxicological studies in order to provide an overview of the level of repellence of contaminants. This repellence is a clear example of how contamination might fragment ecosystems, prevent connectivity among populations and condition the distribution of biodiversity.
Genetic Responses and Aflatoxin Inhibition during Co-Culture of Aflatoxigenic and Non-Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Sweany Rebecca , Mack Brian , Moore Geromy , Gilbert Matthew , Cary Jeffrey , Lebar Matthew , Rajasekaran Kanniah , Damann Kenneth
Published: November 2021

Aflatoxin is a carcinogenic mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus flavus. Non-aflatoxigenic (Non-tox) A. flavus isolates are deployed in corn fields as biocontrol because they substantially reduce aflatoxin contamination via direct replacement and additionally via direct contact or touch with toxigenic (Tox) isolates and secretion of inhibitory/degradative chemicals. To understand touch inhibition, HPLC analysis and RNA sequencing examined aflatoxin production and gene expression of Non-tox isolate 17 and Tox isolate 53 mono-cultures and during their interaction in co-culture. Aflatoxin production was reduced by 99.7% in 72 h co-cultures. Fewer than expected unique reads were assigned to Tox 53 during co-culture, indicating its growth and/or gene expression was inhibited in response to Non-tox 17. Predicted secreted proteins and genes involved in oxidation/reduction were enriched in Non-tox 17 and co-cultures compared to Tox 53. Five secondary metabolite (SM) gene clusters and kojic acid synthesis genes were upregulated in Non-tox 17 compared to Tox 53 and a few were further upregulated in co-cultures in response to touch. These results suggest Non-tox strains can inhibit growth and aflatoxin gene cluster expression in Tox strains through touch. Additionally, upregulation of other SM genes and redox genes during the biocontrol interaction demonstrates a potential role of inhibitory SMs and antioxidants as additional biocontrol mechanisms and deserves further exploration to improve biocontrol formulations.
The hokW-sokW Locus Encodes a Type I Toxin–Antitoxin System That Facilitates the Release of Lysogenic Sp5 Phage in Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157
Authors: Takada Kosuke , Hama Kotone , Sasaki Takaomi , Otsuka Yuichi
Published: November 2021

The toxin-antitoxin (TA) genetic modules control various bacterial events, such as plasmid maintenance, persister cell formation, and phage defense. They also exist in mobile genetic elements, including prophages; however, their physiological roles remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that hokW-sokW, a putative TA locus encoded in Sakai prophage 5 (Sp5) in enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157: H7 Sakai strain, functions as a type I TA system. Bacterial growth assays showed that the antitoxic activity of sokW RNA against HokW toxin partially requires an endoribonuclease, RNase III, and an RNA chaperone, Hfq. We also demonstrated that hokW-sokW assists Sp5-mediated lysis of E. coli cells when prophage induction is promoted by the DNA-damaging agent mitomycin C (MMC). We found that MMC treatment diminished sokW RNA and increased both the expression level and inner membrane localization of HokW in a RecA-dependent manner. Remarkably, the number of released Sp5 phages decreased by half in the absence of hokW-sokW. These results suggest that hokW-sokW plays a novel role as a TA system that facilitates the release of Sp5 phage progeny through E. coli lysis.
First Observations of SN 1604 (Kepler’s Supernova)
Authors: de Angelis Alessandro , Broccio Selenia
Published: November 2021

A supernova close enough to the Earth is a spectacular event: it can appear as a “new star” as luminous as Venus, or even more, visible for several days. The rate of Galactic supernovae is expected to be of about one in 30 years, with a fraction visible to the naked eye; however in all the history of human civilization only seven supernovae in the Milky Way have been reported, the last two (1572 and 1604) during Galilei’s life. The supernova of 1604, today called Kepler’s Supernova, was observed by Galilei, Kepler and other astronomers in Europe, Korea, China, Arabia. Like the supernova SN1572, today called Tycho’s supernova, it has been the subject of extensive studies, and inspired observational measurements and philosophical considerations on the nature of the heavens. The remnant of SN1604 has been indicated by recent X- and gamma-ray data to be a likely site of cosmic ray acceleration. The first recorded data of optical observations, together with new data, can still tell us a lot about the early evolution of this supernova.
Probiotics in Counteracting the Role of Neutrophils in Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Mangrolia Upasana , Osborne Jabez W.
Published: November 2021

Neutrophils are known for their role geared towards pathogen clearance by different mechanisms that they initiate, primarily by the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). However, their immune-surveillance capacity accompanied with plasticity in existing as interchangeable subsets, discovered recently, has revealed their property to contribute to complex cancer pathologies including tumor initiation, growth, angiogenesis and metastasis. Although there is a growing body of evidence suggesting a critical balance between the protumoral and antitumoral neutrophil phenotypes, an in-depth signaling pathway analysis would aid in determination of anticipatory, diagnostic and therapeutic targets. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the potential pathways involved in neutrophil-triggered cancer metastasis and introduces the influence of the microbial load and avenues for probiotic intervention.
Antibody Responses to SARS-CoV-2 Infection—Comparative Determination of Seroprevalence in Two High-Throughput Assays versus a Sensitive Spike Protein ELISA
Authors: Mohanraj Dinesh , Bicknell Kelly , Bhole Malini , Webber Caroline , Taylor Lorna , Whitelegg Alison
Published: November 2021

Robust assay development for SARS-CoV-2 serological testing requires assessment of asymptomatic and non-hospitalised individuals to determine if assays are sensitive to mild antibody responses. Our study evaluated the performance characteristics of two high-throughput SARS-CoV-2 IgG nucleocapsid assays (Abbott Architect and Roche) and The Binding Site (TBS) Anti-Spike IgG/A/M ELISA kit in samples from healthcare workers (HCWs). The 252 samples were collected from multi-site NHS trusts and analysed for SARS-CoV-2 serology. Assay performance was evaluated between these three platforms and ROC curves were used to redefine the Abbott threshold. Concordance between Abbott and TBS was 66%. Any discrepant results were analysed using Roche, which showed 100% concordance with TBS. Analysis conducted in HCWs within 58 days post-PCR result demonstrated 100% sensitivity for both Abbott and Roche. Longitudinal analysis for >100 days post-PCR led to sensitivity of 77.2% and 100% for Abbott and Roche, respectively. A redefined Abbott threshold (0.64) increased sensitivity to 90%, producing results comparable to TBS and Roche. The manufacturer’s threshold set by Abbott contributes to lower sensitivity and elevated false-negative occurrences. Abbott performance improved upon re-optimisation of the cut-off threshold. Our findings provided evidence that TBS can be used as bespoke alternative for SARS-CoV-2 serology analysis where high-throughput platforms are not feasible on site.
Comparing the Attitude toward the COVID-19 and the 2020/21 and 2019/20 Flu Vaccination Campaigns among Italian Healthcare Workers
Authors: Collatuzzo Giulia , Melloni Riccardo , Zanotti Chiara , de Simone Giulio , Pilastro Danila , Lodi Vittorio , Boffetta Paolo
Published: November 2021

Background: While the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among healthcare workers (HCWs) is suboptimal, vaccine hesitancy has not been characterized in detail in this population. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of health-related conditions reported by HCWs during the COVID-19, 2020/21 flu, and 2019/20 flu vaccination campaigns, so to test the hypothesis that HCWs were more prone to report health conditions during the COVID-19 campaign. Methods: We analyzed vaccination questionnaires of 176 hospital-based HCWs who underwent the COVID-19 and the 2020/21 flu vaccinations; 2019/20 flu vaccination questionnaires were available for 130 of them. Outcomes included self-reported allergies, chronic diseases, and use of medications. We tested for prevalence equality, analyzed differences using the kappa statistics and concordance correlation, and explored factors associated with differences in reporting. Results: There was no difference in the proportion of HCWs reporting allergies in the three questionnaires, while chronic diseases were more frequently reported in the COVID-19 than in both 2020/21 (p = 0.04) and 2019/20 flu questionnaires (p = 0.02). Furthermore, a higher proportion of HCWs reported medications use in the COVID-19 vaccination questionnaire, compared to both the 2020/21 and the 2019/20 flu vaccination questionnaires (p < 0.001 for both). In each vaccine campaign, women reported more conditions than men, and the difference between chronic disease reports was greater for women than for men. Conclusions: Our results show more frequent reporting of health conditions during the COVID-19 than the flu vaccination campaigns, providing quantitative evidence of hesitancy of HCWs towards the COVID-19 vaccine.
Business Model Quantification Framework for the Core Participants of the EV Charging Market
Authors: Goncearuc Andrei , Sapountzoglou Nikolaos , De Cauwer Cedric , Coosemans Thierry , Messagie Maarten , Crispeels Thomas
Published: November 2021

The rapid growth of the electrical vehicle (EV) market over the last decade has rendered the existence and accuracy of the business models of the EV charging market a critical factor for a company’s success. To address this issue, this paper presents a quantification framework for the business models of the core participants of the EV charging market, defining the factors that directly influence their revenues and costs and providing two sets of earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) formulas: explicit and implicit. The explicit formulas would be useful for business analytics of the current participants of the EV charging market, while the implicit could be applied by the new entrants, to make reliable predictions based on the benchmark data. These formulas include factors that have not been previously addressed in the literature such as different prices per type of charger, the annual consumed amount of energy per charger and their utilization rate among others. Finally, this research applies the defined framework on an EBIT scenario of an archetypical charge point operator, based on real-life data.
Energy Management Method for Fast-Charging Stations with the Energy Storage System to Alleviate the Voltage Problem of the Observation Node
Authors: Ye Rui , Huang Xueliang , Yang Zexin
Published: November 2021

Large-scale fast charging of electric vehicles (EVs) probably causes voltage deviation problems in the distribution network. Installing energy storage systems (ESSs) in the fast-charging stations (FCSs) and formulating appropriate active power plans for ESSs is an effective way to reduce the local voltage deviation problem. Some deterministic centralized strategies used for ESSs at FCSs are proposed to solve the voltage deviation problem mentioned above. However, the randomness of the EV load is very large, which can probably reduce the effects of deterministic centralized strategies. A fast and reliable centralized strategy considering the randomness of the EV load for ESSs is a key requirement. Therefore, we propose in this paper a day-ahead scheduling strategy with the aim of maximizing the probability of the nodal voltage change being smaller than a preset limit at the observation node. In the proposed strategy, the uncertainty of EV load is taken into account and the probability of the voltage change of an observation node is quantified by a proposed analytic assessment model (AMM). Furthermore, a voltage change optimization model (VCOM) based on a novel control parameter β is proposed, where β can be used as a constraint to suppress the nodal voltage change at the observation node. Finally, the IEEE 33-bus test system is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed day-ahead ESS strategy.