bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Improved Second-Order Sliding Mode Control for an Interception Guidance System without Angular Velocity Measurement
Authors: Qu Yue , Yi Wenjun
Published: May 2023

It is well-known that the successful implementation of current sliding-mode guidance laws relies on two key points: one is the prior knowledge of the upper bound of the target’s maneuver, and the other is the accurate measurement of motion information. The truth maneuver is usually difficult to acquire and can only be roughly estimated. Measurements are often affected by noise and physical limitations of the onboard sensor. This paper presents an improved second-order sliding-mode guidance law that can handle these two problems simultaneously while addressing the chattering phenomenon, which inherently exists in the sliding mode-based controller. We achieve this by using the estimation from an extended state observer (ESO) and tracking differentiator (TD). In light of the employed ESO, which is utilized to give an estimation of the external disturbance, prior knowledge of the target’s maneuver is not required. Most interestingly, we show that the motion information can be estimated efficiently from the ESO in real time. A TD filter can be further embedded to remove unwanted noise from the detected signal. A series of simulations has been conducted, clearly demonstrating that the estimation accuracy of the ESO is sufficient for the guidance law to implement accurate interception. The TD filter not only removes noise but also avoids the phase-loss problems associated with conventional filters. Moreover, the chattering phenomenon is completely eliminated in the control channel.
Convolutional Neural Network Outperforms Graph Neural Network on the Spatially Variant Graph Data
Authors: Boronina Anna , Maksimenko Vladimir , Hramov Alexander E.
Published: May 2023

Applying machine learning algorithms to graph-structured data has garnered significant attention in recent years due to the prevalence of inherent graph structures in real-life datasets. However, the direct application of traditional deep learning algorithms, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), is limited as they are designed for regular Euclidean data like 2D grids and 1D sequences. In contrast, graph-structured data are in a non-Euclidean form. Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) are specifically designed to handle non-Euclidean data and make predictions based on connectivity rather than spatial structure. Real-life graph data can be broadly categorized into two types: spatially-invariant graphs, where the link structure between nodes is independent of their spatial positions, and spatially-variant graphs, where node positions provide additional information about the graph’s properties. However, there is limited understanding of the effect of spatial variance on the performance of Graph Neural Networks. In this study, we aim to address this issue by comparing the performance of GNNs and CNNs on spatially-variant and spatially-invariant graph data. In the case of spatially-variant graphs, when represented as adjacency matrices, they can exhibit Euclidean-like spatial structure. Based on this distinction, we hypothesize that CNNs may outperform GNNs when working with spatially-variant graphs, while GNNs may excel on spatially-invariant graphs. To test this hypothesis, we compared the performance of CNNs and GNNs under two scenarios: (i) graphs in the training and test sets had the same connectivity pattern and spatial structure, and (ii) graphs in the training and test sets had the same connectivity pattern but different spatial structures. Our results confirmed that the presence of spatial structure in a graph allows for the effective use of CNNs, which may even outperform GNNs. Thus, our study contributes to the understanding of the effect of spatial graph structure on the performance of machine learning methods and allows for the selection of an appropriate algorithm based on the spatial properties of the real-life graph dataset.
A General Construction of Integer Codes Correcting Specific Errors in Binary Communication Channels
Authors: Kostadinov Hristo , Manev Nikolai
Published: May 2023

Integer codes have been successfully applied to various areas of communication and computer technology. They demonstrate good performance in correcting specific kinds of errors. In many cases, the used integer codes are constructed by computer search. This paper presents an algebraic construction of integer codes over the ring of integers modulo A=2n+1 capable of correcting at least up to two bit errors in a single b-byte. Moreover, the codes can correct some configurations of three or more erroneous bits, but not all possible ones. The construction is based on the use of cyclotomic cosets of 2 modulo A.
Some Modified Ridge Estimators for Handling the Multicollinearity Problem
Authors: Shaheen Nusrat , Shah Ismail , Almohaimeed Amani , Ali Sajid , Alqifari Hana N.
Published: May 2023

Regression analysis is a statistical process that utilizes two or more predictor variables to predict a response variable. When the predictors included in the regression model are strongly correlated with each other, the problem of multicollinearity arises in the model. Due to this problem, the model variance increases significantly, leading to inconsistent ordinary least-squares estimators that may lead to invalid inferences. There are numerous existing strategies used to solve the multicollinearity issue, and one of the most used methods is ridge regression. The aim of this work is to develop novel estimators for the ridge parameter “γ” and compare them with existing estimators via extensive Monte Carlo simulation and real data sets based on the mean squared error criterion. The study findings indicate that the proposed estimators outperform the existing estimators.
Traffic Flow Prediction Based on Dynamic Graph Spatial-Temporal Neural Network
Authors: Jiang Ming , Liu Zhiwei
Published: June 2023

More accurate traffic prediction can further improve the efficiency of intelligent transportation systems. However, the complex spatiotemporal correlation issues in transportation networks pose great challenges. In the past, people have carried out a great deal of research to solve this problem. Most studies are based on graph neural networks to model traffic graphs and attempt to use fixed graph structures to obtain relationships between nodes. However, due to the time-varying spatial correlation of the transportation network, there is no stable node relationship. To address the above issues, we propose a new traffic prediction framework called the Dynamic Graph Spatial-Temporal Neural Network (DGSTN). Unlike other models that use predefined graphs, this model represents stable node relationships and time-varying node relationships by constructing static topology maps and dynamic information maps during the training and testing stages, to capture hidden node relationships and time-varying spatial correlations. In terms of network architecture, we designed multi-scale causal convolution and adaptive spatial self-attention mechanisms to capture temporal and spatial features, respectively, and assisted learning through static and dynamic graphs. The proposed framework has been tested on two real-world traffic datasets and can achieve state-of-the-art performance.
Core-EP Monotonicity Characterizations for Property-n Matrices
Authors: Zhong Jin , Lin Lin
Published: June 2023

A square matrix is said to have property n if there exists a positive integer w such that Aw is nonnegative. In this paper, we study the core-EP monotonicity for property-n matrices. Some necessary and sufficient conditions for a property-n matrix to be core-EP monotone are given. Moreover, a necessary and sufficient condition for a real square matrix to have a nonnegative core-EP inverse is also presented.
Lower Bound on the Minimum Distance of Single-Generator Quasi-Twisted Codes
Authors: Alahmadi Adel , Solé Patrick , Taki Eldin Ramy
Published: June 2023

We recall a classic lower bound on the minimum Hamming distance of constacyclic codes over finite fields, analogous to the well-known BCH bound for cyclic codes. This BCH-like bound serves as a foundation for proposing some minimum-distance lower bounds for single-generator quasi-twisted (QT) codes. Associating each QT code with a constacyclic code over an extension field, we obtain the first bound. This is the QT analogue to a result in the literature for quasi-cyclic codes. We point out some weaknesses in this bound and propose a novel bound that takes into account the Chinese remainder theorem approach to QT codes as well as the BCH bound of constacyclic codes. This proposed bound, in contrast to previous bounds in the literature, does not presuppose a specific form of code generator and does not require calculations in any extension field. We illustrate that our bound meets the one in the literature when the code generator adheres to the specific form assumed in that study. Various numerical examples enable us to compare and discuss these bounds.
Valorization of Seawater Reverse Osmosis Brine by Monovalent Ion-Selective Membranes through Electrodialysis
Authors: Sharma Prem P. , Mohammed Shabin , Aburabie Jamaliah , Hashaikeh Raed
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes the use of monovalent selective electrodialysis technology to concentrate the valuable sodium chloride (NaCl) component present in seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) brine for direct utilization in the chlor-alkali industry. To enhance monovalent selectivity, a polyamide selective layer was fabricated on commercial ion exchange membranes (IEMs) through interfacial polymerization (IP) of piperazine (PIP) and 1,3,5-Benzenetricarbonyl chloride (TMC). The IP-modified IEMs were characterized using various techniques to investigate changes in chemical structure, morphology, and surface charge. Ion chromatography (IC) analysis showed that the divalent rejection rate was more than 90% for IP-modified IEMs, compared to less than 65% for commercial IEMs. Electrodialysis results demonstrated that the SWRO brine was successfully concentrated to 14.9 g/L NaCl at a power consumption rate of 3.041 kWh/kg, indicating the advantageous performance of the IP-modified IEMs. Overall, the proposed monovalent selective electrodialysis technology using IP-modified IEMs has the potential to provide a sustainable solution for the direct utilization of NaCl in the chlor-alkali industry.
Development and In Vitro Analysis of Layer-by-Layer Assembled Membranes for Potential Wound Dressing: Electrospun Curcumin/Gelatin as Middle Layer and Gentamicin/Polyvinyl Alcohol as Outer Layers
Authors: Huang Ssu-Meng , Liu Shih-Ming , Tseng Hua-Yi , Chen Wen-Cheng
Published: May 2023

Nanofibrous membranes made of hydrogels have high specific surface areas and are suitable as drug carriers. Multilayer membranes fabricated by continuous electrospinning could delay drug release by increasing diffusion pathways, which is beneficial for long-term wound care. In this experiment, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and gelatin were used as membrane substrates, and a sandwich PVA/gelatin/PVA structure of layer-by-layer membranes was prepared by electrospinning under different drug loading concentrations and spinning times. The outer layers on both sides were citric-acid-crosslinked PVA membranes loaded with gentamicin as an electrospinning solution, and the middle layer was a curcumin-loaded gelatin membrane for the study of release behavior, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility. According to the in vitro release results, the multilayer membrane could release curcumin slowly; the release amount was about 55% less than that of the single layer within 4 days. Most of the prepared membranes showed no significant degradation during immersion, and the phosphonate-buffered saline absorption rate of the multilayer membrane was about five to six times its weight. The results of the antibacterial test showed that the multilayer membrane loaded with gentamicin had a good inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In addition, the layer-by-layer assembled membrane was non-cytotoxic but detrimental to cell attachment at all gentamicin-carrying concentrations. This feature could be used as a wound dressing to reduce secondary damage to the wound when changing the dressing. This multilayer wound dressing could be applied to wounds in the future to reduce the risk of bacterial infection and help wounds heal.
Efficiency of Fabricated Adsorptive Polysulfone Mixed Matrix Membrane for Acetic Acid Separation
Authors: Pusphanathan Kavita , Shukor Hafiza , Shoparwe Noor Fazliani , Makhtar Muaz Mohd Zaini , Zainuddin Nor’ Izzah , Jullok Nora , Siddiqui Masoom Raza , Alam Mahboob , Rafatullah Mohd
Published: May 2023

The ultrafiltration mixed matrix membrane (UF MMMs) process represents an applicable approach for the removal of diluted acetic acid at low concentrations, owing to the low pressures applied. The addition of efficient additives represents an approach to further improve membrane porosity and, subsequently, enhance acetic acid removal. This work demonstrates the incorporation of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as additives into polysulfone (PSf) polymer via the non-solvent-induced phase-inversion (NIPS) method to improve the performance of PSf MMMs performance. Eight PSf MMMs samples designated as M0 to M7, each with independent formulations, were prepared and investigated for their respective density, porosity, and degree of AA retention. Morphology analysis through scanning electron microscopy elucidated sample M7 (PSf/TiO2/PEG 6000) to have the highest density and porosity among all samples with concomitant highest AA retention at approximately 92.2%. The application of the concentration polarization method further supported this finding by the higher concentration of AA solute present on the surface of the membrane compared to that of AA feed for sample M7. Overall, this study successfully demonstrates the significance of TiO2 and PEG as high MW additives in improving PSf MMM performance.
The Alternating Access Mechanism in Mammalian Multidrug Resistance Transporters and Their Bacterial Homologs
Authors: Badiee Shadi A , Isu Ugochi H. , Khodadadi Ehsaneh , Moradi Mahmoud
Published: May 2023

Multidrug resistance (MDR) proteins belonging to the ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) transporter group play a crucial role in the export of cytotoxic drugs across cell membranes. These proteins are particularly fascinating due to their ability to confer drug resistance, which subsequently leads to the failure of therapeutic interventions and hinders successful treatments. One key mechanism by which multidrug resistance (MDR) proteins carry out their transport function is through alternating access. This mechanism involves intricate conformational changes that enable the binding and transport of substrates across cellular membranes. In this extensive review, we provide an overview of ABC transporters, including their classifications and structural similarities. We focus specifically on well-known mammalian multidrug resistance proteins such as MRP1 and Pgp (MDR1), as well as bacterial counterparts such as Sav1866 and lipid flippase MsbA. By exploring the structural and functional features of these MDR proteins, we shed light on the roles of their nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs) and transmembrane domains (TMDs) in the transport process. Notably, while the structures of NBDs in prokaryotic ABC proteins, such as Sav1866, MsbA, and mammalian Pgp, are identical, MRP1 exhibits distinct characteristics in its NBDs. Our review also emphasizes the importance of two ATP molecules for the formation of an interface between the two binding sites of NBD domains across all these transporters. ATP hydrolysis occurs following substrate transport and is vital for recycling the transporters in subsequent cycles of substrate transportation. Specifically, among the studied transporters, only NBD2 in MRP1 possesses the ability to hydrolyze ATP, while both NBDs of Pgp, Sav1866, and MsbA are capable of carrying out this reaction. Furthermore, we highlight recent advancements in the study of MDR proteins and the alternating access mechanism. We discuss the experimental and computational approaches utilized to investigate the structure and dynamics of MDR proteins, providing valuable insights into their conformational changes and substrate transport. This review not only contributes to an enhanced understanding of multidrug resistance proteins but also holds immense potential for guiding future research and facilitating the development of effective strategies to overcome multidrug resistance, thus improving therapeutic interventions.
Fly Ash as a Potential Adsorbent for Removing Radionuclides from Aqueous Solutions in an Adsorption-Membrane Assisted Process Compared to Batch Adsorption
Authors: Fuks Leon , Miśkiewicz Agnieszka , Herdzik-Koniecko Irena , Zakrzewska-Kołtuniewicz Grażyna
Published: June 2023

The paper deals with checking the possibility of using fly ash (FA) as a sorbent in the batch adsorption method of removing radionuclides from aqueous solutions. An adsorption-membrane filtration (AMF) hybrid process with a polyether sulfone ultrafiltration membrane with a pore size of 0.22 μm was also tested as an alternative to the commonly used column-mode technology. In the AMF method, metal ions are bound by the water-insoluble species prior to the membrane filtration of the purified water. Thanks to the easy separation of the metal-loaded sorbent, it is possible to improve water purification parameters using compact installations and reduce operating costs. This work evaluated the influence of such parameters on cationic radionuclide removal efficiency (EM): initial pH and composition of the solution, contact time of the phases, and the FA doses. A method for removing radionuclides, ordinarily present in an anionic form (e.g., TcO4−), from water, has also been presented. The results show, that both batch adsorption of radionuclides and adsorption-membrane filtration (AMF) using the FA as an adsorbent can be effectively used for water purification and in the form of a solid directed to long-term storage.
The Effect of B on the Co-Segregation of C-Cr at Grain Boundaries in Austenitic Steels
Authors: Yan Xin , Xu Panpan , Han Peide , Dong Nan , Wang Jian , Zhang Caili
Published: May 2023

In austenitic steels, the co-segregation of C and Cr at grain boundaries can result in the formation of Cr23C6. However, the addition of B to steels can effectively reduce the amount of Cr23C6 formed and inhibit its ripening in experiments, simultaneously transforming it into Cr23(BC)6. Therefore, the effect of B on the co-segregation of C and Cr at the Σ5(210), Σ9(221) and Σ11(113) grain boundaries in austenitic steels was investigated using density functional theory. The results indicate that B, C, and Cr all tend to segregate at the three grain boundaries, with B and C showing a stronger segregation tendency. Furthermore, co-segregation of C and Cr with short distances occurs readily at the Σ5(210), Σ9(221) and Σ11(113) grain boundaries. The presence of B at grain boundaries can impede the segregation of Cr, particularly at the Σ9(221) and Σ11(113) grain boundaries. When B is pre-segregating at the Σ5(210) grain boundary, B, C, and Cr tend to co-segregate at the grain boundary. The grain boundary B hinders the accumulation of Cr near it for most grain boundaries, thereby inhibiting the co-segregation of Cr and C, making it difficult for B, C, and Cr to aggregate at most grain boundaries. This is beneficial for controlling the nucleation of Cr23(BC)6.
Nb Phase Position Marking for Clarifying the Formation Process of Cu-Al Composite Interfacial Phases in Continuous Composite Casting
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhao Fan , Liu Xinhua
Published: May 2023

Cu-Al composites are widely applied materials exhibiting advanced properties of both matrix metals. Controlling the brittle interfacial phases is a key factor in improving the interfacial strength of Cu-Al composites. This paper studied the interfacial formation process of Cu-Al composites fabricated by continuous composite casting. The phase formation sequence, growth direction and formation mechanism were clarified via element marking and thermodynamic calculations. The spatial distribution of the interfacial phases from the aluminum side to the copper side is as follows: the α + θ layer (α-Al + CuAl2), the θ layer (CuAl2) and the γ layer (Cu9Al4). Moreover, insular η phases (CuAl) and δ phases (Cu3Al2) exist in the γ phase sublayer. The formation sequence of interfacial phases is as follows: the θ phase, the η phase, the δ phase and the γ phase. The θ layer and α + θ layer are transformed from a liquid diffusion layer formed by scouring the surface of copper with liquid aluminum, the η and δ phases grow towards the θ layer and the γ phase simultaneously grows towards both the copper matrix and the θ layer.
Cracking Behavior and High-Temperature Thermoplastic Analysis of 09CrCuSb Steel Billets
Authors: Peng Zhixian , Mei Tao , Zheng Jian , Yuan Yuan , Wang Liwang
Published: June 2023

This paper characterizes the surface crack morphology and elements of 09CrCuSb steel continuous casting slabs and studies the high-temperature thermo-plasticity of continuous casting slabs using a Gleeble 3500 thermal simulator. Combining the macro/micro fracture morphology and microstructure characteristics, the formation rules of slab cracks are discussed. The research results show that the increase in Ae3 temperature caused by changes in alloy elements results in the precipitation of a thin, film-like coexisting ferrite along the grain boundaries at a certain temperature, as well as the element segregation behavior of low-melting-point alloy elements at the original austenite grain boundaries, which are the main factors inducing cracks in 09CrCuSb steel continuous casting billets. The plasticity of 09CrCuSb steel at high temperatures is poor at 800~900 °C. In continuous casting process control, it is necessary to try to avoid long-term stay of the billet at this temperature range.
Advances in Corrosion and Protection of Materials
Authors: Antunes Renato Altobelli
Published: June 2023

From an engineering standpoint, the corrosion of metallic materials is a challenging phenomenon, responsible for huge costs and serious failures [...]
Analysis of Metabolites and Metabolic Pathways of Three Chinese Jujube Cultivar
Authors: Liu Hongxia , Yuan Mengyao , Liu Hui , Wang Lefei , Zhao Xusheng
Published: June 2023

Most studies on metabolites in jujube fruits focus on specific types of metabolites, but there are only a few comprehensive reports on the metabolites in jujube fruits. In order to understand the variance of metabolites in fruits of different jujube varieties. The objective of this study was to explore the metabolic components of jujube fruit by comparing three cultivars, namely Linyi LiZao (LZ), Jiaocheng SuantianZao (STZ), and Xianxian Muzao (MZ). The metabolites present in the fruits of these three cultivars were evaluated and compared. The results revealed the detection of 1059 metabolites across the three jujube varieties, with each cultivar exhibiting distinct metabolic characteristics. Notably, MZ exhibited a higher abundance of six metabolite classes, namely amino acids and derivatives, flavonoids, lipids, organic acids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, compared to LZ. Conversely, LZ exhibited higher concentrations of alkaloids, lignans, coumarins, nucleotides, and their derivatives compared to the other two cultivars. In terms of STZ, its content of amino acids and derivatives, lignans and coumarins, organic acids, and phenolic acids was largely similar to that of LZ. However, the content of alkaloids, nucleotides, and their derivatives, and terpenoids was significantly higher in STZ compared to LZ. Additionally, STZ exhibited lower levels of flavonoids and lipids compared to LZ. Moreover, MZ was found to be less nutritionally rich than STZ, except for lignans and coumarins, as it displayed lower levels of all the metabolites. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed six significantly different metabolic pathways (p < 0.05) between LZ and MZ, including arginine and proline metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, flavonoid biosynthesis, glutathione metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and cysteine and methionine metabolism. The metabolites in STZ and MZ exhibited three significantly different pathways (p < 0.05), primarily associated with flavonoid biosynthesis, arginine and proline metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism. The significantly differential metabolites between LZ and STZ were observed in the phenylpropionic acid biosynthesis pathway and the ubiquinone and other terpenoid-quinone biosynthesis pathways. LZ showed a closer relationship with STZ than with MZ. STZ and LZ exhibited higher medicinal values, while LZ had lower acidity and MZ displayed better antioxidant activity. This study presents the first thorough analysis of metabolites in LZ, STZ, and MZ cultivars, which can serve as a theoretical basis for quality analysis, functional research, and classification processing of jujube fruit.
Comparing the Efficacy of Myo-Inositol Plus α-Lactalbumin vs. Myo-Inositol Alone on Reproductive and Metabolic Disturbances of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Kamenov Zdravko , Gateva Antoaneta , Dinicola Simona , Unfer Vittorio
Published: June 2023

Despite the beneficial effect of myo-inositol on metabolic, hormonal, and reproductive parameters of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients, 28% to 38% could be resistant to this treatment. The combination with the milk protein α-lactalbumin can be a useful therapeutic approach to overcome inositol resistance and achieve ovulation in these women. This open-label prospective study aimed to compare the effects of supplementing myo-inositol plus α-lactalbumin vs myo-inositol alone on reproductive and metabolic abnormalities in PCOS. A total of 50 anovulatory women with a PCOS diagnosis were randomly assigned to receive myo-inositol alone or a combination of myo-inositol and α-lactalbumin for three months. Anthropometric measures, hormonal levels, and menstrual cycle duration were collected at baseline and after treatment. The therapy with myo-inositol plus α-lactalbumin improved both ovulation rate and menstrual cycle duration more than myo-inositol alone. The body weight was significantly reduced in women receiving myo-inositol plus α-lactalbumin, while patients in the myo-inositol group experienced no change. In addition, the improvement of hyperandrogenism was more prominent in patients treated with myo-inositol plus α-lactalbumin. The benefits of associating myo-inositol and α-lactalbumin clearly make this combination a true edge in the management of PCOS.
Thermal Analysis of a Reactive Variable Viscosity TiO2-PAO Nanolubricant in a Microchannel Poiseuille Flow
Authors: Makinde Oluwole Daniel , Makinde Anuoluwa Esther
Published: June 2023

This paper examines the flow structure and heat transfer characteristics of a reactive variable viscosity polyalphaolefin (PAO)-based nanolubricant containing titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles in a microchannel. The nonlinear model equations are obtained and numerically solved via the shooting method with Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg integration scheme. Pertinent results depicting the effects of emerging thermophysical parameters on the reactive lubricant velocity, temperature, skin friction, Nusselt number and thermal stability criteria are presented graphically and discussed. It is found that the Nusselt number and thermal stability of the flow process improve with exothermic chemical kinetics, Biot number, and nanoparticles volume fraction but lessen with a rise in viscous dissipation and activation energy.
Depth-Enhanced Holographic Super Multi-View Maxwellian Display Based on Variable Filter Aperture
Authors: Tu Kefeng , Chen Qiyang , Wang Zi , Lv Guoqiang , Feng Qibin
Published: June 2023

The super multi-view (SMV) near-eye display (NED) effectively provides depth cues for three-dimensional (3D) displays by projecting multiple viewpoint images or parallax images onto the retina simultaneously. Previous SMV NED suffers from a limited depth of field (DOF) due to the fixed image plane. Aperture filtering is widely used to enhance the DOF; however, an invariably sized aperture may have opposite effects on objects with different reconstruction depths. In this paper, a holographic SMV display based on the variable filter aperture is proposed to enhance the DOF. In parallax image acquisition, multiple groups of parallax images, each group recording a part of the 3D scene on a fixed depth range, are captured first. In the hologram calculation, each group of wavefronts at the image recording plane (IRP) is calculated by multiplying the parallax images with the corresponding spherical wave phase. Then, they are propagated to the pupil plane and multiplied by the corresponding aperture filter function. The size of the filter aperture is variable which is determined by the depth of the object. Finally, the complex amplitudes at the pupil plane are back-propagated to the holographic plane and added together to form the DOF-enhanced hologram. Simulation and experimental results verify the proposed method could improve the DOF of holographic SMV display, which will contribute to the application of 3D NED.
Biological Interfacial Materials for Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Islam Amjad , Shah Syed Hamad Ullah , Haider Zeeshan , Imran Muhammad , Amin Al , Haider Syed Kamran , Li Ming-De
Published: June 2023

Organic optoelectronic devices have received appreciable attention due to their low cost, mechanical flexibility, band-gap engineering, lightness, and solution processability over a broad area. Specifically, realizing sustainability in organic optoelectronics, especially in solar cells and light-emitting devices, is a crucial milestone in the evolution of green electronics. Recently, the utilization of biological materials has appeared as an efficient means to alter the interfacial properties, and hence improve the performance, lifetime and stability of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Biological materials can be known as essential renewable bio-resources obtained from plants, animals and microorganisms. The application of biological interfacial materials (BIMs) in OLEDs is still in its early phase compared to the conventional synthetic interfacial materials; however, their fascinating features (such as their eco-friendly nature, biodegradability, easy modification, sustainability, biocompatibility, versatile structures, proton conductivity and rich functional groups) are compelling researchers around the world to construct innovative devices with enhanced efficiency. In this regard, we provide an extensive review of BIMs and their significance in the evolution of next-generation OLED devices. We highlight the electrical and physical properties of different BIMs, and address how such characteristics have been recently exploited to make efficient OLED devices. Biological materials such as ampicillin, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), nucleobases (NBs) and lignin derivatives have demonstrated significant potential as hole/electron transport layers as well as hole/electron blocking layers for OLED devices. Biological materials capable of generating a strong interfacial dipole can be considered as a promising prospect for alternative interlayer materials for OLED applications.
Visible Pulsed Laser-Assisted Selective Killing of Cancer Cells with PVP-Capped Plasmonic Gold Nanostars
Authors: Mishra Aniket , Inaam Rafia , Okamoto Shunya , Shibata Takayuki , Santra Tuhin Subhra , Nagai Moeto
Published: June 2023

A new generation of nanoscale photosensitizer agents has improved photothermal capabilities, which has increased the impact of photothermal treatments (PTTs) in cancer therapy. Gold nanostars (GNS) are promising for more efficient and less invasive PTTs than gold nanoparticles. However, the combination of GNS and visible pulsed lasers remains unexplored. This article reports the use of a 532 nm nanosecond pulse laser and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-capped GNS to kill cancer cells with location-specific exposure. Biocompatible GNS were synthesized via a simple method and were characterized under FESEM, UV–visible spectroscopy, XRD analysis, and particle size analysis. GNS were incubated over a layer of cancer cells that were grown in a glass Petri dish. A nanosecond pulsed laser was irradiated on the cell layer, and cell death was verified via propidium iodide (PI) staining. We assessed the effectiveness of single-pulse spot irradiation and multiple-pulse laser scanning irradiation in inducing cell death. Since the site of cell killing can be accurately chosen with a nanosecond pulse laser, this technique will help minimize damage to the cells around the target cells.
Simulation of a Fully Digital Computing-in-Memory for Non-Volatile Memory for Artificial Intelligence Edge Applications
Authors: Hu Hongyang , Feng Chuancai , Zhou Haiyang , Dong Danian , Pan Xiaoshan , Wang Xiwei , Zhang Lu , Cheng Shuaiqi , Pang Wan , Liu Jing
Published: June 2023

In recent years, digital computing in memory (CIM) has been an efficient and high-performance solution in artificial intelligence (AI) edge inference. Nevertheless, digital CIM based on non-volatile memory (NVM) is less discussed for the sophisticated intrinsic physical and electrical behavior of non-volatile devices. In this paper, we propose a fully digital non-volatile CIM (DNV-CIM) macro with compressed coding look-up table (LUT) multiplier (CCLUTM) using the 40 nm technology, which is highly compatible with the standard commodity NOR Flash memory. We also provide a continuous accumulation scheme for machine learning applications. When applied to a modified ResNet18 network trained under the CIFAR-10 dataset, the simulations indicate that the proposed CCLUTM-based DNV-CIM can achieve a peak energy efficiency of 75.18 TOPS/W with 4-bit multiplication and accumulation (MAC) operations.
A New Dual-Mass MEMS Gyroscope Fault Diagnosis Platform
Authors: Cui Rang , Ma Tiancheng , Zhang Wenjie , Zhang Min , Chang Longkang , Wang Ziyuan , Xu Jingzehua , Wei Wei , Cao Huiliang
Published: June 2023

MEMS gyroscopes are one of the core components of inertial navigation systems. The maintenance of high reliability is critical for ensuring the stable operation of the gyroscope. Considering the production cost of gyroscopes and the inconvenience of obtaining a fault dataset, in this study, a self-feedback development framework is proposed, in which a dualmass MEMS gyroscope fault diagnosis platform is designed based on MATLAB/Simulink simulation, data feature extraction, and classification prediction algorithm and real data feedback verification. The platform integrates the dualmass MEMS gyroscope Simulink structure model and the measurement and control system, and reserves various algorithm interfaces for users to independently program, which can effectively identify and classify seven kinds of signals of the gyroscope: normal, bias, blocking, drift, multiplicity, cycle and internal fault. After feature extraction, six algorithms, ELM, SVM, KNN, NB, NN, and DTA, were respectively used for classification prediction. The ELM and SVM algorithms had the best effect, and the accuracy of the test set was up to 92.86%. Finally, the ELM algorithm is used to verify the actual drift fault dataset, and all of them are successfully identified.
Humidity-Sensing Mattress for Long-Term Bedridden Patients with Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis
Authors: Mamom Jinpitcha , Ratanadecho Phadungsak , Mingmalairak Chatchai , Rungroungdouyboon Bunyong
Published: June 2023

Designing new medical devices with advanced humidity sensors is of great significance for patients with incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). The primary goal of this study is to test the humidity-sensing mattress system for patients with IAD in clinical settings. The design of the mattress is set at 203 cm, with 10 × 3 sensors, dimensions of 19 × 32 cm, and a weighted bearing of 200 kg. The main sensors consist of a humidity-sensing film, a thin-film electrode (6 × 0.1 mm), and a glass substrate (500 nm). The sensitivity of the test mattress system showed that the resistance-humidity sensor was at a temperature of 35 °C (V0 = 30 V, V0 = 350 mV), with slope at 1.13 V/fF, f = 1 MHz, 20–90% RH, and a response time of 20 s at 2 μm. In addition, the humidity sensor reached 90% RH, with a response time of less than 10 s, a magnitude of 107–104 Ω, 1 mol%, CrO1.5, and FO1.5, respectively. This design is not only a simple, low-cost medical sensing device, but also opens a new pathway for developing humidity-sensing mattresses in the field of flexible sensors, wearable medical diagnostic devices, and health detection.
Modeling and Validation of Total Ionizing Dose Effect on the TSVs in RF Microsystem
Authors: Yang Lihong , Li Zhumeng , Shan Guangbao , Lu Qijun , Fu Yu
Published: June 2023

Radio frequency (RF) systems utilizing through-silicon vias (TSVs) have been widely used in the aerospace and nuclear industry, which means that studying the total ionizing dose (TID) effect on TSV structures has become necessary. To investigate the TID effect on TSV structures, a 1D TSV capacitance model was established in COMSOL Multiphysics (COMSOL), and the impact of irradiation was simulated. Then, three types of TSV components were designed, and an irradiation experiment based on them was conducted, to validate the simulation results. After irradiation, the S21 degraded for 0.2 dB, 0.6 dB, and 0.8 dB, at the irradiation dose of 30 krad (Si), 90 krad (Si), 150 krad (Si), respectively. The variation trend was consistent with the simulation in the high-frequency structure simulator (HFSS), and the effect of irradiation on the TSV component was nonlinear. With the increase in the irradiation dose, the S21 of TSV components deteriorated, while the variation of S21 decreased. The simulation and irradiation experiment validated a relatively accurate method for assessing the RF systems’ performance under an irradiation environment, and the TID effect on structures similar to TSVs in RF systems, such as through-silicon capacitors.
Advanced Theranostic Strategies for Viral Hepatitis Using Carbon Nanostructures
Authors: Gholami Ahmad , Mousavi Seyyed Mojtaba , Masoumzadeh Reza , Binazadeh Mojtaba , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri , Omidifar Navid , Arjmand Omid , Chiang Wei-Hung , Moghadami Mohsen , Rumjit Nelson Pynadathu
Published: June 2023

There are several treatment protocols for acute viral hepatitis, and it is critical to recognize acute hepatitis in its earliest stages. Public health measures to control these infections also rely on rapid and accurate diagnosis. The diagnosis of viral hepatitis remains expensive, and there is no adequate public health infrastructure, while the virus is not well-controlled. New methods for screening and detecting viral hepatitis through nanotechnology are being developed. Nanotechnology significantly reduces the cost of screening. In this review, the potential of three-dimensional-nanostructured carbon substances as promising materials due to fewer side effects, and the contribution of these particles to effective tissue transfer in the treatment and diagnosis of hepatitis due to the importance of rapid diagnosis for successful treatment, were extensively investigated. In recent years, three-dimensional carbon nanomaterials such as graphene oxide and nanotubes with special chemical, electrical, and optical properties have been used for the diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis due to their high potential. We expect that the future position of nanoparticles in the rapid diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis can be better determined.
A Microbiological Approach to Alleviate Soil Replant Syndrome in Peaches
Authors: Newberger Derek R. , Minas Ioannis S. , Manter Daniel K. , Vivanco Jorge M.
Published: May 2023

Replant syndrome (RS) is a global problem characterized by reduced growth, production life, and yields of tree fruit/nut orchards. RS etiology is unclear, but repeated monoculture plantings are thought to develop a pathogenic soil microbiome. This study aimed to evaluate a biological approach that could reduce RS in peach (Prunus persica) orchards by developing a healthy soil bacteriome. Soil disinfection via autoclave followed by cover cropping and cover crop incorporation was found to distinctly alter the peach soil bacteriome but did not affect the RS etiology of RS-susceptible ‘Lovell’ peach seedlings. In contrast, non-autoclaved soil followed by cover cropping and incorporation altered the soil bacteriome to a lesser degree than autoclaving but induced significant peach growth. Non-autoclaved and autoclaved soil bacteriomes were compared to highlight bacterial taxa promoted by soil disinfection prior to growing peaches. Differential abundance shows a loss of potentially beneficial bacteria due to soil disinfection. The treatment with the highest peach biomass was non-autoclaved soil with a cover crop history of alfalfa, corn, and tomato. Beneficial bacterial species that were cultivated exclusively in the peach rhizosphere of non-autoclaved soils with a cover crop history were Paenibacillus castaneae and Bellilinea caldifistulae. In summary, the non-autoclaved soils show continuous enhancement of beneficial bacteria at each cropping phase, culminating in an enriched rhizosphere which may help alleviate RS in peaches.
Effects of Bacterial Lysates and Metabolites on Collagen Homeostasis in TNF-α-Challenged Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Huuskonen Laura , Anglenius Heli , Ahonen Ilmari , Tiihonen Kirsti
Published: June 2023

During skin aging, the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, such as type I collagen, decreases and the synthesis of ECM-degrading matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) rises, leading to an imbalance in homeostasis and to wrinkle formation. In this study, we examined the effects of bacterial lysates and metabolites from three bifidobacteria and five lactobacilli on collagen homeostasis in human dermal fibroblasts during challenge with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), modeling an inflammatory condition that damages the skin’s structure. Antiaging properties were measured, based on fibroblast cell viability and confluence, amount of type I pro-collagen, ratio of MMP-1 to type I pro-collagen, cytokines, and growth factors. The TNF-α challenge increased the MMP-1/type I pro-collagen ratio and levels of proinflammatory cytokines, as expected. With the probiotics, differences were clearly dependent on bacterial species, strain, and form. In general, the lysates elicited less pronounced responses in the biomarkers. Of all strains, the Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis strains Bl-04 and B420 best maintained type I pro-collagen production and the MMP-1/collagen type I ratio under no-challenge and challenge conditions. Metabolites that were produced by bifidobacteria, but not their lysates, reduced several proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) during the challenge, whereas those from lactobacilli did not. These results indicate that B. animalis ssp. lactis-produced metabolites, especially those of strains Bl-04 and B420, could support collagen homeostasis in the skin.
Rapid Identification of Lineage and Drug Resistance in Clinical Samples of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Comín Jéssica , Viñuelas Jesús , Lafoz Carmen , Cebollada Alberto , Ibarz Daniel , Iglesias María-José , Samper Sofía
Published: June 2023

Background: Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a slow-growing bacterium, which could delay its diagnosis and, therefore, promote the spread of the disease. Whole-genome sequencing allows us to obtain the complete drug-resistance profile of the strain; however, bacterial cultivation of clinical samples, along with complex processing, is required. Methods: In this work, we explore AmpliSeq, an amplicon-based enrichment method for preparing libraries for targeted next-generation sequencing, to identify lineage and drug resistance directly from clinical samples. Results: In our study, 111 clinical samples were tested. The lineage was identified in 100% of the culture-derived samples (52/52), in 95% of the smear (BK)-positive clinical samples (38/40) and in 42.1% of the BK-negative clinical samples (8/19). The drug-resistance profile was accurately identified in all but 11 samples, in which some phenotypic and genotypic discrepancies were found. In this respect, our panels were not exact in the detection of streptomycin resistance for isolates derived from clinical samples, as an extremely high number of SNPs in the rrs and rrl genes were detected due to cross-contamination. Conclusion: This technique has demonstrated high sensitivity in obtaining the drug-resistance profile of the isolates, as even those samples with DNA concentrations below the detection limit of Qubit produced a result. AmpliSeq technology is cheaper than whole-genome sequencing, easy to perform by laboratory technicians and applicable to any microorganism using the Ion Torrent platform.
A Putative Role of Candida albicans in Promoting Cancer Development: A Current State of Evidence and Proposed Mechanisms
Authors: Talapko Jasminka , Meštrović Tomislav , Dmitrović Branko , Juzbašić Martina , Matijević Tatjana , Bekić Sanja , Erić Suzana , Flam Josipa , Belić Dino , Petek Erić Anamarija , Milostić Srb Andrea , Škrlec Ivana
Published: June 2023

Candida albicans is a commensal fungal species that commonly colonizes the human body, but it is also a pervasive opportunistic pathogen in patients with malignant diseases. A growing body of evidence suggests that this fungus is not only coincidental in oncology patients, but may also play an active role in the development of cancer. More specifically, several studies have investigated the potential association between C. albicans and various types of cancer, including oral, esophageal, and colorectal cancer, with a possible role of this species in skin cancer as well. The proposed mechanisms include the production of carcinogenic metabolites, modulation of the immune response, changes in cell morphology, microbiome alterations, biofilm production, the activation of oncogenic signaling pathways, and the induction of chronic inflammation. These mechanisms may act together or independently to promote cancer development. Although more research is needed to fully grasp the potential role of C. albicans in carcinogenesis, the available evidence suggests that this species may be an active contributor and underscores the importance of considering the impact of the human microbiome on cancer pathogenesis. In this narrative review, we aimed to summarize the current state of evidence and offer some insights into proposed mechanisms.
Agitation Leaching Behavior of Copper–Cobalt Oxide Ores from the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Zheng Chaozhen , Jiang Kaixi , Cao Zhanmin , Northwood Derek O. , Waters Kristian E. , Wang Haibei , Liu Sanping , Zhu Kun’e , Ma Hao
Published: May 2023

Agitation leaching is a promising technology in hydrometallurgy for treating copper–cobalt oxide ores. In this work, the behavior of oxide ores containing around 2.3% Cu and 0.3% Co received from Congo was investigated for varying particle size, acidity, pulp density, temperature, leaching time, and reduction potential. XRD, optical microscopy (OM), and ICP-OES methods were used to examine the chemical composition, morphology, and metal content of the samples. The copper and cobalt recovery reached 88.2% and 82.5%, respectively, at room temperature, with a leaching time of 4 h, a pulp density of 33%, an acidity of 178 g/L, and no reductant. The Cu and Co remaining in the leaching residue were found to be in their sulfide forms and coated with dense and fine calcium sulfate. To improve the metal recovery, a combination of flotation and agitation leaching of the flotation tailings method was adopted, after which the Cu and Co recovery reached 96.6% and 86.0%, respectively.