bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience Thinking and Landscape Complexity in the Basentello Valley (BA, MT), c. AD 300–800
Authors: Munro Matthew
Published: March 2023

Archaeological data for the transformation of late Roman rural landscapes in Southern Italy over the sixth to eighth centuries AD are often meagre. This record often provides little explanatory power in the context of understanding the collapse of Roman political and economic hegemony and the framework for the regeneration of these relationships in the early medieval countryside. Resilience thinking offers a robust suite of heuristics to help guide both method and theory in understanding the key socio-environmental relationships involved in this transformative process based on limited material evidence. Through insights gained from developing a panarchic perspective of the Basentello landscape between AD 300 and 800, both capacities for and strategies of resilience to landscape-scale shocks and stressors emerge as key patterns in this collapse process. To explain how these patterns emerge, resilience thinking employs narratives from complexity science by framing landscapes as self-organizing complex adaptive systems. It is through appreciating this complexity that archaeologists can revolutionize how we understand landscape-scale transformations, the role of resilience in landscape history and, more broadly, the nature of societal collapse.
Leading Gillick Astray? An Analysis of the Law of Consent Relevant to Trans and Gender Diverse Minors and the Commencement of Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment
Authors: Smith Malcolm K.
Published: March 2023

This article outlines and critiques the Australian jurisprudence that has addressed whether minors are able to lawfully consent to gender-affirming hormone treatment, with reference to the landmark decision of Gillick v West Norfolk and Wisbech Area Health Authority. Although the principle of Gillick competency is well recognised in law, the Australian legal developments that apply Gillick to decisions about the commencement of gender-affirming treatment, have taken the principle astray. The approach under Australian law has diverged down a path that does not align with the original reasoning in Gillick, nor its contemporary interpretation. I outline the reasoning in Gillick so that the foundational principles are considered before discussing how Gillick has been interpreted and applied in subsequent cases. I then provide an outline of the key legal developments in Australia relevant to minors and the commencement of hormone treatment for gender dysphoria. I undertake a critique of the Australian law in this field and conclude that there is a need for future judicial determination of how Gillick should be applied, not only in the cases relevant to gender dysphoria, but beyond, so that the position in respect of minors’ decision-making is clarified. This is vitally important because the current approach to this issue has potential implications beyond cases relevant to gender-affirming hormone treatment.
Attenuation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Enhances Carvacrol-Induced Apoptosis in Osteosarcoma Cell Lines
Authors: Chiu Kuan-Wei , Chen Hsuan-Ying , Chen Chiu-Liang , Hsieh Cheng-Pu , Huang Yi-Fu
Published: March 2023

Carvacrol is a monoterpenoid phenol that has excellent antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory activities. It can also improve wound healing. However, few studies have explored its antitumor effect on osteosarcoma. In this report, we tried to determine the potential efficacy of carvacrol against osteosarcoma cell lines. Our data revealed that carvacrol exposure inhibited the proliferation of osteosarcoma HOS and U-2 OS cells. In addition, carvacrol exposure enhanced the levels of cleaved PARP and caspase 3 and increased annexin V-positive cells, indicating that carvacrol exposure triggers apoptosis in osteosarcoma cell lines. Furthermore, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were enhanced after carvacrol exposure and cotreatment with NAC, the ROS scavenger, decreased the levels of cleaved PARP and caspase 3, suggesting the involvement of ROS in carvacrol-induced apoptosis. Importantly, we found that carvacrol exposure triggered several protein expressions related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, including GRP78/Bip, IRE1a, PERK, and CHOP, in HOS and U-2 OS cells, indicating that carvacrol exposure could result in ER stress in these cell lines. Cotreatment with the ER stress inhibitor 4-PBA increased the levels of cleaved PARP and caspase 3 and further suppressed cellular proliferation in carvacrol-exposed osteosarcoma cell lines. Overall, the results indicate that induced ER stress can protect cells from apoptosis, but increased ROS contributes to apoptosis in carvacrol-treated cells. In this report, we first demonstrate the role of ER stress in carvacrol-induced apoptosis and suggest that ER stress could be targeted to enhance the antitumor activity of carvacrol in osteosarcoma cell lines.
Dietary 1,3-β-Glucans Affect Growth, Breast Muscle Composition, Antioxidant Activity, Inflammatory Response, and Economic Efficiency in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Amer Shimaa A. , Behairy Amany , Gouda Ahmed , Abdel-Warith Abdel-Wahab A. , Younis Elsayed M. , Roushdy Elshimaa M. , Moustafa Amr A. , Abd-Allah Noura A. , Reda Rehab , Davies Simon J. , Ibrahim Seham M.
Published: March 2023

Recently, researchers have been intensively looking for novel, safe antibiotic alternatives because of the prevalence of many clinical and subclinical diseases affecting bird flocks and the risks of using antibiotics in subtherapeutic doses as feed additives. The present study intended to evaluate the potential use of 1,3-β-glucans (GLC) as antibiotic alternative growth promotors and assessed the effect of their dietary inclusion on the growth performance, carcass traits, chemical composition of breast muscles, economic efficiency, blood biochemical parameters, liver histopathology, antioxidant activity, and the proinflammatory response of broiler chickens. This study used 200 three-day-old ROSS broiler chickens (50 chicks/group, 10 chicks/replicate, with an average body weight of 98.71 ± 0.17 g/chick). They were assigned to four experimental groups with four dietary levels of GLC, namely 0, 50, 100, and 150 mg kg−1, for a 35-day feeding period. Birds fed diets containing GLC showed an identical different growth rate to the control group. However, the total feed intake (TFI) increased quadratically in the GLC50 and GLC100 groups as compared to that in the control group. GLC addition had no significant effect on the weights of internal and immune organs, except for a decrease in bursal weight in the GLC150 group (p = 0.01). Dietary GLC addition increased the feed cost and total cost at 50 and 100 mg kg−1 doses. The percentages of n-3 and n-6 PUFA in the breast muscle of broiler chickens fed GLC-supplemented diets increased linearly in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.01). The serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level and the uric acid level were quadratically increased in the GLC150 group. The serum levels of total antioxidant capacity, catalase, superoxide dismutase, interleukin-1β, and interferon-gamma linearly increased, while the MDA level decreased in the GLC-fed groups in a dose-dependent manner. Normal histological characterization of different liver structures in the different groups with moderate round cells was noted as a natural immune response around the hepatic portal area. The different experimental groups showed an average percentage of positive immunostaining to the proinflammatory marker transforming growth factor-beta with an increase in the dose of GLC addition. The results suggest that GLC up to 100 mg kg−1 concentration can be used as a feed additive in the diets of broiler chickens and shows no adverse effects on their growth, dressing percentage, and internal organs. GLC addition in diets improves the antioxidant activity and immune response in birds. GLC help enrich the breast muscle with n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
The Protective Role of Ozone Therapy in Kidney Disease: A Review
Authors: Delgadillo-Valero Luis Fernando , Hernández-Cruz Estefani Yaquelin , Pedraza-Chaverri José
Published: March 2023

Ozone (O3) is a reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can interact with cellular components and cause oxidative stress. Following said logic, if O3 induces such a stressful milieu, how does it exert antioxidant functions? This is mediated by controlled toxicity produced by low concentrations of O3, which enhance the cell’s suppliance of antioxidant properties without causing any further damage. Therapeutic concentrations vary extensively, although 50 µg/mL is commonly used in experimental and clinical procedures, given that augmented concentrations might work as germicides or cause endogenous damage. O3 therapy has been shown to be effective when applied before or after traumatic renal procedures, whether caused by ischemia, xenobiotics, chronic damage, or other models. In this review, we focus on discussing the role of O3 therapy in different models of kidney damage associated with fibrosis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. We integrate and report knowledge about O3 in renal therapy, debunking skepticism towards unconventional medicine, explaining its proven therapeutic properties, and thus providing background for its use in further research as well as in clinical settings.
Pivot Stiffness Effect on Transient Dynamic Characteristic of Tilting Pad Journal Bearing-Rotor System Passing through Critical Speed
Authors: Jin Yingze , Niu Qiuli , Qu Yuanpeng , Yuan Xiaoyang
Published: March 2023

Tilting pad journal bearings (TPJBs) are widely applied in the high-speed rotor system whose working speed is higher than its critical speed due to excellent hydrodynamic lubrication and stability. Pivot stiffness is one of the key design parameters of TPJBs compared to other journal bearings and has become particularly important for optimizing the performance of TPJB-rotor systems. In order to improve the vibration and critical characteristics of rotor systems, the transient dynamic characteristic of a TPJB-rotor system passing through the critical speed is investigated considering different pivot stiffness ratios. A time-varying dynamics model of a symmetrical single-disc rotor supported by four-pad TPJBs is established considering constant acceleration conditions and nonlinear hydrodynamic bearing force. The disc vibration characteristic, journal vibration characteristic, pad vibration characteristic, and hydrodynamic bearing force are analyzed by using Bode plot, shaft center orbit, pad phase orbit, waterfall plot, and time history. The results show that the pivot stiffness plays a major role in the suppression of resonance amplitude and working amplitude of a TPJB-rotor system, without changing the frequency characteristic of the system. This study provides a theoretical basis for the pivot stiffness design of TPJBs and the vibration suppression of rotor systems.
Investigation of the Indentation Resistance of Aluminum Foam Sandwich Panels with Metallurgical Bonding Interfaces under Low-Velocity Impact
Authors: Gao Qiang , Su Xixi , Huang Peng , Sun Xi , Feng Zhanhao , Zu Guoyin
Published: March 2023

The impact resistance of aluminum foam sandwich panels (AFS) with metallurgical bonding interfaces prepared by the powder cladding rolling method was investigated. Low-velocity impact tests were conducted by using a drop-weight impact facility to explore the dynamic mechanical behavior, deformation and damage mechanisms, and energy absorption of AFS with metallurgical bonding interfaces. The effects of variation of impact energy, panel thickness, and specimen density on the energy absorption performance of AFS were quantitatively evaluated by energy absorption indicators. The results indicate that the load-displacement curve illustrates prominent three-stage characteristics when the impact energy is 120 J containing the front panel yielding stage, the foam core’s compressive and shear failure stage, and the back panel fracture stage. The impact strength of the sandwich structure increases with increasing panel thickness and specimen density. The AFS with metallurgical bonding interfaces presents favorable energy absorption efficiency under low velocity.
Structural Insights into Layered Tetrahalocuprates(II) Based on Small Unsaturated and Cyclic Primary Ammonium Cations
Authors: Topić Edi , Rubčić Mirta
Published: March 2023

Layered hybrid halometallates represent a promising class of multifunctional materials, yet with many open challenges regarding the interaction between building blocks. In this work, we present a synthetic and analytical methodology for the efficient synthesis and structural analysis of a series of novel tetrahalocuprate(II) hybrids based on small alkylammonium cations. Observed robustness in geometrical motifs provided a platform for crystal structure determination, even from the complex laboratory powder diffraction data. The slight differences in inorganic layer geometry and severe differences in organic bilayer packing are quantified using well-established descriptors for these materials, and dependences of geometric parameters on anion and cation choice are accounted for. Temperature dependence of structural parameters for one of the tetrachlorocuprate hybrids that was chosen as a model unveils a possible geometrical origin of thermochromism in these materials.
Comparison of Two Chosen 3D Printing Resins Designed for Orthodontic Use: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Paradowska-Stolarz Anna , Wezgowiec Joanna , Mikulewicz Marcin
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: In recent years, 3D printing has become a highly popular tool for manufacturing in various fields such as aviation, automobiles, plastics, and even medicine, including dentistry. Three-dimensional printing allows dentists to create high-precision models of teeth and jaw structure, and enables them to develop customized tools for patients’ treatment. The range of resins used in dentistry is quite large, and this branch is developing rapidly; hence, studies comparing different resins are required. The present study aimed to compare the mechanical properties of two chosen resins used in dentistry. (2) Materials and methods: Ten specimens each of two types of 3D-printable resins (BioMed Amber and IBT, developed by Formlabs) were prepared. The samples were printed on a Formlabs Form 2 3D printer according to ISO standards. Samples for the compression test were rectangular in shape (10 ± 0.2 mm × 10 ± 0.2 mm × 4 ± 0.2 mm), while the samples used for the tensile test were dumbbell shaped (75 mm long, with 10 mm end width and 2 mm thickness). Tensile and compression tests of both materials were performed in accordance with the appropriate ISO standards. (3) Results: The BioMed Amber resin was more resistant to compression and tensile forces, thus implying that the resin could withstand higher stress during stretching, pulling, or pushing. The IBT resin was less resistant to such loads, and failure of this material occurred at lower forces than those for Biomed Amber. An ANOVA test confirmed that the observed differences were statistically significant (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: Based on the properties of both materials, the IBT resin could be better used as a tray for placing orthodontic brackets through an indirect bonding technique, while the BioMed Amber resin would be more useful as a surgical guide for placing dental implants and mini-implants. Further potential fields of application of the resins should be investigated.
Yaw Rate Prediction and Tilting Feedforward Synchronous Control of Narrow Tilting Vehicle Based on RNN
Authors: Gao Ruolin , Li Haitao , Wang Ya , Xu Shaobing , Wei Wenjun , Zhang Xiao , Li Na
Published: March 2023

The synchronous control of yaw motion and tilting motion is an important problem related to the lateral stability and energy consumption of narrow tilting vehicles. This paper proposes a method for the tilting control of narrow tilting vehicles: tilting feedforward synchronous control. This method utilizes a proposed novel prediction method for yaw rate based on a recurrent neural network. Meanwhile, considering that classical recurrent neural networks can only predict yaw rate at a given time, and that yaw rate prediction generally needs to analyze a large amount of computer vision data, in this paper, the yaw rate is represented by a polynomial operation to predict the continuous yaw rate in the time domain; this prediction is realized using only the driving data of the vehicle itself and does not include the data generated by computer vision. A prototype experiment is provided in this work to prove the advantages and feasibility of the proposed tilting feedforward synchronous control method for narrow tilting vehicles. The proposed tilting feedforward synchronous control method can ensure the synchronous response of the yaw motion and the tilting motion of narrow tilting vehicles.
Controller Design for Parallel Mechanism Solar Tracker
Authors: Engin Mustafa
Published: March 2023

Solar energy is considered a sustainable solution that has proven its technological competence for electricity generation among renewable energy sources. While green resources provide high energy security, they also reduce environmental pollution and support the use of local resources. In this article, a dual axis solar tracker that can operate with high accuracy in harsh operating conditions is proposed using the Stewart platform. The Stewart platform is designed using linear actuators using direct current (DC) motors. An embedded controller is designed to control the motors and to realize the sun tracking algorithm of the system. An STM32 board is adopted as a real-time controller to implement the decoupled control algorithm. Therefore, the proposed solar tracker panel control system monitors the daily trajectory of the sun by the photovoltaic panel, ensuring that the system’s energy production remains at its maximum throughout the day. First, the Simulink model of the system was created and the proportional derivative integral (PID) control algorithms were simulated. Experimental studies were carried out by producing the system; the experimental results exhibited a better performance, with an increase in the collected energy of about 32% compared with the fixed one.
Observer-Based Controller Using Line Integral Lyapunov Fuzzy Function for TS Fuzzy Systems: Application to Induction Motors
Authors: Houili Rabiaa , Hammoudi Mohamed Yacine , Benbouzid Mohamed , Titaouine Abdennacer
Published: March 2023

This paper deals with the stabilization problem of a nonlinear system described by a Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy (TSF) model with unmeasurable premise variables via a robust controller. Applying the sector nonlinearity techniques, the nonlinear system is represented by a decoupled fuzzy model. Then, we design a robust observer-based controller for the obtained fuzzy system by utilizing the differential mean value approach. The observer and controller gains are obtained by the separation principle, in which the problem is solved in the sum of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). The paper presents two main contributions: A state feedback controller is designed using differential mean value (DMVT) which ensures robust stabilization of the nonlinear system. Additionally, the Luenberger observer is extended to the Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy models. The second contribution is to reduce conservatism in the obtained conditions, a non-quadratic Lyapunov function (known as the line integral Lyapunov fuzzy candidate (LILF)) is employed. Two examples are provided to further illustrate the efficiency and robustness of the proposed approach; specifically, the Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy descriptor of an induction motor is derived and a robust observer-based controller applied to the original nonlinear system.
Magnetic Switchability via Thermal-Induced Structural Phase Transitions in Molecular Solids
Authors: Du Shan-Nan , Yao Chan-Ying , Liu Jun-Liang , Tong Ming-Liang
Published: March 2023

Magnetically switchable molecular solids with stimuli-responsive ON/OFF characteristics are promising candidates for smart switches and magnetic storage. In addition to conventional spin-crossover/charge-transfer materials whose magnetic responses arise from changes in the electronic structure of the metal centers, peripheral chemical entities that exhibit tunability provide an alternative and promising tactic for the construction of magnetic multi-stable materials. Temperature changes can trigger a reversible structural phase transition that can affect the coordination environment of a transition-metal center because of the thermal-induced motion of ligands, counterions, neutral guests, and/or changes in coordination number, thus potentially realizing magnetic bistability which can arise from a concomitant spin state change or the modulation of orbital angular momentum. Perspectives and challenges are also highlighted to provide insights into its development.
A Novel Approach to Solving Fractional-Order Kolmogorov and Rosenau–Hyman Models through the q-Homotopy Analysis Transform Method
Authors: Seddek Laila F. , El-Zahar Essam R. , Chung Jae Dong , Shah Nehad Ali
Published: March 2023

In this study, a novel method called the q-homotopy analysis transform method (q-HATM) is proposed for solving fractional-order Kolmogorov and Rosenau–Hyman models numerically. The proposed method is shown to have fast convergence and is demonstrated using test examples. The validity of the proposed method is confirmed through graphical representation of the obtained results, which also highlights the ability of the method to modify the solution’s convergence zone. The q-HATM is an efficient scheme for solving nonlinear physical models with a series solution in a considerable admissible domain. The results indicate that the proposed approach is simple, effective, and applicable to a wide range of physical models.
A Hybrid CM-BEM Formulation for Solving Large-Scale 3D Eddy-Current Problems Based on ℋ-Matrices and Randomized Singular Value Decomposition for BEM Matrix Compression
Authors: Moro Federico , Codecasa Lorenzo
Published: March 2023

We present a novel a,v-q hybrid method for solving large-scale time-harmonic eddy-current problems. This method combines a hybrid unsymmetric formulation based on the cell method and the boundary element method with a hierarchical matrix-compression technique based on randomized singular value decomposition. The main advantage is that the memory requirements are strongly reduced compared to the corresponding hybrid method without matrix compression while retaining the same robust solution strategy consisting of a simple construction of the preconditioner. In addition, the matrix-compression accuracy and efficiency are enhanced compared to traditional compression methods, such as adaptive cross approximation. The numerical results show that the proposed hybrid approach can also be effectively used to analyze large-scale eddy-current problems of engineering interest.
Material Property Characterization and Parameter Estimation of Thermoelectric Generator by Using a Master–Slave Strategy Based on Metaheuristics Techniques
Authors: Sanin-Villa Daniel , Montoya Oscar Danilo , Grisales-Noreña Luis Fernando
Published: March 2023

Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) have gained significant interest as a sustainable energy source, due to their ability to convert thermal energy into electrical energy through the Seebeck effect. However, the power output of TEGs is highly dependent on the thermoelectric material properties and operational conditions. Accurate modeling and parameter estimation are essential for optimizing and designing TEGs, as well as for integrating them into smart grids to meet fluctuating energy demands. This work examines the challenges of accurate modeling and parameter estimation of TEGs and explores various optimization metaheuristics techniques to find TEGs parameters in real applications from experimental conditions. The paper stresses the importance of determining the properties of TEGs with precision and using parameter estimation as a technique for determining the optimal values for parameters in a TEG mathematical model that represent the actual behavior of a thermoelectric module. This methodological approach can improve TEG performance and aid in efficient energy supply and demand management, thus reducing the reliance on traditional fossil fuel-based power generation.
On Filtering and Smoothing Algorithms for Linear State-Space Models Having Quantized Output Data
Authors: Cedeño Angel L. , González Rodrigo A. , Godoy Boris I. , Carvajal Rodrigo , Agüero Juan C.
Published: March 2023

The problem of state estimation of a linear, dynamical state-space system where the output is subject to quantization is challenging and important in different areas of research, such as control systems, communications, and power systems. There are a number of methods and algorithms to deal with this state estimation problem. However, there is no consensus in the control and estimation community on (1) which methods are more suitable for a particular application and why, and (2) how these methods compare in terms of accuracy, computational cost, and user friendliness. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art algorithms to deal with state estimation subject to quantized measurements, and an exhaustive comparison among them. The comparison analysis is performed in terms of the accuracy of the state estimation, dimensionality issues, hyperparameter selection, user friendliness, and computational cost. We consider classical approaches and a new development in the literature to obtain the filtering and smoothing distributions of the state conditioned to quantized data. The classical approaches include the extended Kalman filter/smoother, the quantized Kalman filter/smoother, the unscented Kalman filter/smoother, and the sequential Monte Carlo sampling method, also called particle filter/smoother, with its most relevant variants. We also consider a new approach based on the Gaussian sum filter/smoother. Extensive numerical simulations—including a practical application—are presented in order to analyze the accuracy of the state estimation and the computational cost.
A Dynamic Competition Analysis of Stochastic Fractional Differential Equation Arising in Finance via Pseudospectral Method
Authors: Ali Ishtiaq , Khan Sami Ullah
Published: March 2023

This research focuses on the analysis of the competitive model used in the banking sector based on the stochastic fractional differential equation. For the approximate solution, a pseudospectral technique is utilized for the proposed model based on the stochastic Lotka–Volterra equation using a wide range of fractional order parameters in simulations. Conditions for stable and unstable equilibrium points are provided using the Jacobian. The Lotka–Volterra equation is unstable in the long term and can produce highly fluctuating dynamics, which is also one of the reasons that this equation is used to model the problems arising in finance, where fluctuations are important. For this reason, the conventional analytical and numerical methods are not the best choices. To overcome this difficulty, an automatic procedure is used to solve the resultant algebraic equation after the discretization of the operator. In order to fully use the properties of orthogonal polynomials, the proposed scheme is applied to the equivalent integral form of stochastic fractional differential equations under consideration. This also helps in the analysis of fractional differential equations, which mostly fall in the framework of their integrated form. We demonstrate that this fractional approach may be considered as the best tool to model such real-world data situations with very reasonable accuracy. Our numerical simulations further demonstrate that the use of the fractional Atangana–Baleanu operator approach produces results that are more precise and flexible, allowing individuals or companies to use it with confidence to model such real-world situations. It is shown that our numerical simulation results have a very good agreement with the real data, further showing the efficiency and effectiveness of our numerical scheme for the proposed model.
Spread Prediction and Classification of Asian Giant Hornets Based on GM-Logistic and CSRF Models
Authors: Li Chengyuan , Zhu Haoran , Luo Hanjun , Zhou Suyang , Kong Jieping , Qi Lei , Rao Congjun
Published: March 2023

As an invasive alien species, Asian giant hornets are spreading rapidly and widely in Washington State and have caused significant disturbance to the daily life of residents. Therefore, this paper studies the hornets’ spread and classification models based on the GM-Logistic and CSRF models, which are significant for using limited resources to control pests and protect the ecological environment. Firstly, by combining the improved grey prediction model (GM) with the logistic model, this paper proposes a GM-Logistic model to obtain hornets’ spread rules regarding spatial location distribution and population quantity. The GM-Logistic model has higher accuracy and better fitting effect when only a few non-equally spaced sequences data are used for prediction. Secondly, a cost-sensitive random forest (CSRF) model was proposed to solve the problems of hornets’ classification and priority survey decisions in unbalanced datasets. The hornets’ binary classification model was established through feature extraction, the transformation from an unbalanced dataset to a balanced dataset, and the training dataset. CSRF improves the adaptability and robustness of the original classifier and provides a better classification effect on unbalanced datasets. CSRF outperforms the Random Forest, Classification and Regression Trees, and Support Vector Machines in performance evaluation indexes such as classification accuracy, G-mean, F1-measure, ROC curve, and AUC value. Thirdly, this paper adds human control factors and cycle parameters to the logistic model, obtaining the judgment conditions of report update frequency and pest elimination. Finally, the goodness-of-fit test on each model shows that the models established in this paper are feasible and reasonable.
On the Impact of Quarantine Policies and Recurrence Rate in Epidemic Spreading Using a Spatial Agent-Based Model
Authors: Topîrceanu Alexandru
Published: March 2023

Pandemic outbreaks often determine swift global reaction, proven by for example the more recent COVID-19, H1N1, Ebola, or SARS outbreaks. Therefore, policy makers now rely more than ever on computational tools to establish various protection policies, including contact tracing, quarantine, regional or national lockdowns, and vaccination strategies. In support of this, we introduce a novel agent-based simulation framework based on: (i) unique mobility patterns for agents between their home location and a point of interest, and (ii) the augmented SICARQD epidemic model. Our numerical simulation results provide a qualitative assessment of how quarantine policies and the patient recurrence rate impact the society in terms of the infected population ratio. We investigate three possible quarantine policies (proactive, reactive, and no quarantine), a variable quarantine restrictiveness (0–100%), respectively, and three recurrence scenarios (short, long, and no recurrence). Overall, our results show that the proactive quarantine in correlation to a higher quarantine ratio (i.e., stricter quarantine policy) triggers a phase transition reducing the total infected population by over 90% compared to the reactive quarantine. The timing of imposing quarantine is also paramount, as a proactive quarantine policy can reduce the peak infected ratio by over ×2 times compared to a reactive quarantine, and by over ×3 times compared to no quarantine. Our framework can also reproduce the impactful subsequent epidemic waves, as observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the adopted recurrence scenario. The suggested solution against residual infection hotspots is mobility reduction and proactive quarantine policies. In the end, we propose several nonpharmaceutical guidelines with direct applicability by global policy makers.
A Sliding Mode Control Algorithm with Elementary Compensation for Input Matrix Uncertainty in Affine Systems
Authors: Sha Ruizhi , Feng Zuren
Published: March 2023

This paper aims to develop a sliding mode control (SMC) approach with elementary compensation for input matrix uncertainty in affine systems. As a multiplicative uncertainty regarding the control inputs, input matrix uncertainty adversely modifies the control effort and even further causes the instability of systems. To solve this issue, a sliding mode control algorithm is developed based on a two-step design strategy. The first step is to design a general sliding mode controller for the system without input matrix uncertainty. In the second step, a control term is specially designed to compensate for input matrix uncertainty. In order to realize the elementary compensation for input matrix uncertainty, this term is obtained by solving a nonlinear vector equation which is derived from the Lyapunov function inequality. Theorems and lemmas based on the convex cone theory are proposed to guarantee the existence and uniqueness of the solution to the vector equation. Additionally, an algorithmic process is proposed to solve the vector equation efficiently. In the simulation part, the proposed controller is applied to two systems with different structures and compared with two state-of-the-art SMC algorithms. The comprehensive simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method is able to provide the closed-loop system with a competitive performance in terms of convergence level, overshoot reduction and chattering suppression.
Research on the Service Quality Index and Alternatives Evaluation and Ranking for Online Yue Kiln Celadon Art Education in Post COVID-19 Era
Authors: Wan Jian , Lin Chia-Liang
Published: March 2023

Online education has been still a common way for teaching and learning in the post epidemic era. However, the related research on service quality for the online Yue kiln celadon art education industry is still a vital research gap during this period. Thus, a hybrid method of FANP and GRA is proposed in this study to analyse and evaluate the key factors for providing and maintaining high service quality of online Yue kiln celadon art education industry in the post coronavirus era. In this research, whether in the model of FANP and GRA, factors such as safety mechanism of transaction and education, personnel quality, and the ability of customer need handling are essential conditions for providing excellent service quality in the post-COVID-19 era. The main contribution of this study is to propose an integrated method of FANP and GRA to calculate and rank potential solutions of online Yue kiln celadon art education service quality in the post-COVID-19 era under fuzzy environment and discrete conditions. Finally, the research findings of this study have a guiding role, thereby becoming a guide for the industries related to online Yue kiln celadon art education to maintain good service quality in similar scenarios in the future.
Local-Sample-Weighted Clustering Ensemble with High-Order Graph Diffusion
Authors: Gan Jianwen , Liang Yunhui , Du Liang
Published: March 2023

The clustering ensemble method has attracted much attention because it can improve the stability and robustness of single clustering methods. Among them, similarity-matrix-based methods or graph-based methods have had a wide range of applications in recent years. Most similarity-matrix-based methods calculate fully connected pairwise similarities by treating a base cluster as a whole and ignoring the importance of the relevance ranking of samples within the same base cluster. Since unreliable similarity estimates degrade clustering performance, constructing accurate similarity matrices is of great importance in applications. Higher-order graph diffusion based on reliable similarity matrices can further uncover potential connections between data. In this paper, we propose a more substantial graph-learning-based ensemble algorithm for local-sample-weighted clustering, which implicitly optimizes the adaptive weights of different neighborhoods based on the ranking importance of different neighbors. By further diffusion on the consensus matrix, we obtained an optimal consistency matrix with more substantial discriminative power, revealing the potential similarity relationship between samples. The experimental results showed that, compared with the second-best DREC algorithm, the accuracy of the proposed algorithm improved by 17.7%, and that of the normalized mutual information (NMI) algorithm improved by 15.88%. All empirical results showed that our clustering model consistently outperformed the related clustering methods.
Plasticity Resource of Cast Iron at Deforming Broaching
Authors: Nemyrovskyi Yakiv , Shepelenko Ihor , Storchak Michael
Published: March 2023

The contact interaction mechanics of deformation broaching in low-plasticity materials is studied. Particular attention is paid to the study of the stress–strain state parameters and the plasticity margin in the deformation zone during the machining of gray cast iron EN-GJL-200. The stress–strain state was analyzed using a finite-element model of the deforming broaching process for each area of the deformation zone. The model parameters of the machined material were determined experimentally by compressing specimens of gray cast iron EN-GJL-200. The changes in the parameters of accumulated strain, stress tensor components, stress triaxiality ratio, hydrostatic stress, and plasticity margin at different deformation zones along the machined specimen depth are analyzed. It is shown that there is a zone of local plastic deformation in conditions of critical contact stresses. This leads to the appearance of tensile stresses that reduce the plasticity margin in the surface layer. The impact of tool geometry on the stress–strain state of the surface layer is also discussed, and recommendations for the optimal working angle of the deforming element are provided based on plasticity margin minimization.
Distribution and Prevalence of Anaplasmataceae, Rickettsiaceae and Coxiellaceae in African Ticks: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cossu Carlo Andrea , Collins Nicola E. , Oosthuizen Marinda C. , Menandro Maria Luisa , Bhoora Raksha Vasantrai , Vorster Ilse , Cassini Rudi , Stoltsz Hein , Quan Melvyn , van Heerden Henriette
Published: March 2023

In Africa, ticks continue to be a major hindrance to the improvement of the livestock industry due to tick-borne pathogens that include Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Rickettsia and Coxiella species. A systemic review and meta-analysis were conducted here and highlighted the distribution and prevalence of these tick-borne pathogens in African ticks. Relevant publications were searched in five electronic databases and selected using inclusion/exclusion criteria, resulting in 138 and 78 papers included in the qualitative and quantitative analysis, respectively. Most of the studies focused on Rickettsia africae (38 studies), followed by Ehrlichia ruminantium (27 studies), Coxiella burnetii (20 studies) and Anaplasma marginale (17 studies). A meta-analysis of proportions was performed using the random-effects model. The highest prevalence was obtained for Rickettsia spp. (18.39%; 95% CI: 14.23–22.85%), R. africae (13.47%; 95% CI: 2.76–28.69%), R. conorii (11.28%; 95% CI: 1.77–25.89%), A. marginale (12.75%; 95% CI: 4.06–24.35%), E. ruminantium (6.37%; 95% CI: 3.97–9.16%) and E. canis (4.3%; 95% CI: 0.04–12.66%). The prevalence of C. burnetii was low (0%; 95% CI: 0–0.25%), with higher prevalence for Coxiella spp. (27.02%; 95% CI: 10.83–46.03%) and Coxiella-like endosymbionts (70.47%; 95% CI: 27–99.82%). The effect of the tick genera, tick species, country and other variables were identified and highlighted the epidemiology of Rhipicephalus ticks in the heartwater; affinity of each Rickettsia species for different tick genera; dominant distribution of A. marginale, R. africae and Coxiella-like endosymbionts in ticks and a low distribution of C. burnetii in African hard ticks.
Identification of Vietnamese Flea Species and Their Associated Microorganisms Using Morphological, Molecular, and Protein Profiling
Authors: Huynh Ly Na , Diarra Adama Zan , Pham Quang Luan , Berenger Jean-Michel , Ho Van Hoang , Nguyen Xuan Quang , Parola Philippe
Published: March 2023

Fleas are obligatory blood-sucking ectoparasites of medical and veterinary importance. The identification of fleas and associated flea-borne microorganisms, therefore, plays an important role in controlling and managing these vectors. Recently, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has been reported as an innovative and effective approach to the identification of arthropods, including fleas. This study aims to use this technology to identify ethanol-preserved fleas collected in Vietnam and to use molecular biology to search for microorganisms associated with these fleas. A total of 502 fleas were collected from wild and domestic animals in four provinces in Vietnam. Morphological identification led to the recognition of five flea species, namely Xenopsylla cheopis, Xenopsylla astia, Pulex irritans, Ctenocephalides canis, and Ctenocephalides felis. The cephalothoraxes of 300 individual, randomly selected fleas were tested using MALDI-TOF MS and molecular analysis for the identification and detection of microorganisms. A total of 257/300 (85.7%) of the obtained spectra from the cephalothoraxes of each species were of good enough quality to be used for our analyses. Our laboratory MALDI-TOF MS reference database was upgraded with spectra achieved from five randomly selected fleas for every species of Ctenocephalides canis and Ctenocephalides felis. The remaining spectra were then queried against the upgraded MALDI-TOF MS database, which showed 100% correspondence between morphology and MALDI-TOF MS identification for two flea species (Ctenocephalides canis and Ctenocephalides felis). The MS spectra of the remaining species (three P. irritans, five X. astia, and two X. cheopis) were visually generated low-intensity MS profiles with high background noise that could not be used to update our database. Bartonella and Wolbachia spp. were detected in 300 fleas from Vietnam using PCR and sequencing with primers derived from the gltA gene for Bartonella and the 16S rRNA gene for Wolbachia, including 3 Bartonella clarridgeiae (1%), 3 Bartonella rochalimae (1%), 1 Bartonella coopersplainsensis (0.3%), and 174 Wolbachia spp. endosymbionts (58%).
Spherical Hybrid Nanoparticles for Homann Stagnation-Point Flow in Porous Media via Homotopy Analysis Method
Authors: You Xiangcheng , Cui Jifeng
Published: March 2023

Non-axisymmetric stagnant-point flows for flat plates in porous media containing spherical Cu-Al2O3-H2O nanoparticles are studied using the homotopy analysis method (HAM). The governing equations are transformed into three coupled non-linear ordinary differential equations through similarity transformations. A large degree of freedom is provided by HAM when selecting auxiliary linear operators. By transforming nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations with variable coefficients into linear ordinary differential equations with constant coefficients, nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations can be solved. Over the entire domain, these equations can be solved approximately analytically. The analysis involves a discussion of the impact of many physical parameters generated in the proposed model. The results have shown that skin friction coefficients of Cfx and Cfy increase with volume fraction of hybrid nanofluid and the coefficient of permeability increasing. For the axisymmetric case of γ = 0, when volume fraction, φ, φ1, φ2 = 0, 5%, 10%, 20%, Cfx = Cfy = 1.33634, 1.51918, 1.73905, 2.33449, it can be found that the wall shear stress values increase by 13.68%, 30.14%, and 74.69%, respectively. In response to an increase in hybrid nanofluid volume fractions, local Nusselt numbers Nux increase. Nux decrease and change clearly with the coefficient of permeability increasing in the range of γ < 0; the values of Nux are less affected in the range of γ > 0.
Consumer Impressions of the Safety and Effectiveness of OTC Medicines
Authors: Taylor Jeffrey Gordon , Ayosanmi Stephen , Sansgiry Sujit S.
Published: March 2023

The public generally believes OTC medicines to be helpful for treating minor ailments. From a survey point of view, that position often originates from feedback obtained when these medicines are considered as one broad category. The objective of the study was to assess the properties of 15 categories of agents across three dimensions—effectiveness, safety, and familiarity. Data were gathered via an online non-random survey in one Canadian province, where residents were asked to consider 15 OTC medicine categories in terms of those dimensions. Five hundred and seventy-five completed surveys were obtained out of 3000 sent. On the 10-point effectiveness scale, values ranged from 5.1 (Athlete’s foot cream) to 7.3 (headache medicine). For safety, the medicines were closely grouped (6.0 to 7.4). Cough syrups for children were perceived as less safe than those for adults. There was a trend in that, as product familiarity grew, so did impressions of safety and effectiveness. The results support other reports where OTC medicines are described as safe and effective, although safety ratings were not particularly high. Responders considered these medicines to generally be higher in safety than effectiveness.
Process Parameters Analysis of Laser Phase Transformation Hardening on the Raceway Surface of Shield Main Bearing
Authors: He Peiyu , Ding Yi , Jiang Shiying , Zhang Hengjie , Shen Tianyu , Wang Yun
Published: March 2023

The main bearing of the shield machine has a huge structure and severe service conditions, which are prone to wear and fatigue damage. To improve the anti-wear and anti-fatigue ability of the raceway surface of the shield main bearing, laser transformation hardening under different parameters of the shield main bearing raceway material 42CrMo steel was researched. The effects of laser power and scanning speed on the phase transformation of 42CrMo steel and the depth of the hardened layer were studied. The numerical model was verified using the theoretical and experimental results. Orthogonal tables of laser processing parameters are established. The results show that the depth of the hardened raceway layer increases with increased laser power and decreased laser scanning speed. According to the results of orthogonal primary and secondary analyses and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation, the depth of the hardened layer of the raceway can reach 1.08 mm, and the hardened layer is relatively uniform (laser power, 2250 W; scanning speed, 20 mm/s; spot length, 5 mm). The research in this paper provides a theoretical basis and technological innovation for the processing methods and engineering applications of high-reliability and long-life shield main bearings, which is of great engineering significance.