bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological and Physiological Responses of In Vitro-Grown Cucurbita sp. Landraces Seedlings under Osmotic Stress by Mannitol and PEG
Authors: Tajaragh Rana Panahi , Rasouli Farzad , Giglou Mousa Torabi , Zahedi Seyed Morteza , Hassanpouraghdam Mohammad Bagher , Aazami Mohammad Ali , Adámková Anna , Mlček Jiří
Published: November 2022

Screening and identification of tolerant genotypes using osmotic materials under in vitro culture could be rapid, easy, and even accurate. In this research, three Iranian landraces of Cucurbita sp. included Tanbal Ajili (Cucurbita maxima Duch.), Ajili Razan (Cucurbita pepo L.), and Balghabakhi (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) seeds were cultured in ¼ MS medium. After germination, plantlets were transferred to MS media containing mannitol and PEG 6000. Mannitol and PEG at three concentrations of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 M and 0.009, 0.012, and 0.015 M, respectively, were added into the MS medium, while the MS medium without any adding was used as control. Our findings revealed that osmotic treatments significantly increased shoot and root dry weight (DW), malondialdehyde (MDA), and proline content, but significantly reduced coleoptile length, shoot and root fresh weight, and photosynthesis pigments content. Protein content, phenols, and flavonoids content, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant including ascorbate peroxidase (APX), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) activity, reduced ascorbate (AsA), reduced ascorbate/dehydroascorbic acid (AsA/DHA), reduced glutathione (GSH), dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) were significantly increased at moderate osmotic stress induced by mannitol and PEG. In contrast, the previous physiological parameters were significantly reduced at higher water deficit conditions. With respect to most attributes and concentrations, mannitol simulated osmotic stress better than PEG. Our results revealed that applying PEG and mannitol under in vitro conditions could be an efficient way to evaluate and screen cucurbit genotypes for future breeding programs.
Numerical and Physical Modeling of Ponte Liscione (Guardialfiera, Molise) Dam Spillways and Stilling Basin
Authors: Moroni Monica , Castellino Myrta , De Girolamo Paolo
Published: November 2022

Issues such as the design or reauditing of dams due to the occurrence of extreme events caused by climatic change are mandatory to address to ensure the safety of territories. These topics may be tackled numerically with Computational Fluid Dynamics and experimentally with physical models. This paper describes the 1:60 Froude-scaled numerical model of the Liscione (Guardialfiera, Molise, Italy) dam spillway and the downstream stilling basin. The k-ω SST turbulence model was chosen to close the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (RANS) implemented in the commercial software Ansys Fluent ®. The computation domain was discretized using a grid with hexagonal meshes. Experimental data for model validation were gathered from the 1:60 scale physical model of the Liscione dam spillways and the downstream riverbed of the Biferno river built at the Laboratory of Hydraulic and Maritime Constructions of the Sapienza University of Rome. The model was scaled according to the Froude number and fully developed turbulent flow conditions were reproduced at the model scale (Re > 10,000). From the analysis of the results of both the physical and the numerical models, it is clear that the stilling basin is undersized and therefore insufficient to manage the energy content of the fluid output to the river, with a significant impact on the erodible downstream river bottom in terms of scour depths. Furthermore, the numerical model showed that a less vigorous jet-like flow is obtained by removing one of the sills the dam is supplied with.
Mechanism of [CO2] Enrichment Alleviated Drought Stress in the Roots of Cucumber Seedlings Revealed via Proteomic and Biochemical Analysis
Authors: Li Yiman , Zhang Wendong , Zhang Dalong , Zheng Yinjian , Xu Yaliang , Liu Binbin , Li Qingming
Published: November 2022

Cucumber is one of the most widely cultivated greenhouse vegetables, and its quality and yield are threatened by drought stress. Studies have shown that carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) enrichment can alleviate drought stress in cucumber seedlings; however the mechanism of this [CO2] enrichment effect on root drought stress is not clear. In this study, the effects of different drought stresses (simulated with 0, 5% and 10% PEG 6000, i.e., no, moderate, and severe drought stress) and [CO2] (400 μmol·mol−1 and 800 ± 40 μmol·mol−1) on the cucumber seedling root proteome were analyzed using the tandem mass tag (TMT) quantitative proteomics method. The results showed that after [CO2] enrichment, 346 differentially accumulating proteins (DAPs) were found only under moderate drought stress, 27 DAPs only under severe drought stress, and 34 DAPs under both moderate and severe drought stress. [CO2] enrichment promoted energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and secondary metabolism, induced the expression of proteins related to root cell wall and cytoskeleton metabolism, effectively maintained the balance of protein processing and degradation, and enhanced the cell wall regulation ability. However, the extent to which [CO2] enrichment alleviated drought stress in cucumber seedling roots was limited under severe drought stress, which may be due to excessive damage to the seedlings.
Ten-Year Experience with Transapical and Direct Transaortic Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement to Address Patients with Aortic Stenosis and Peripheral Vascular Disease
Authors: Ferrari Enrico , Pozzoli Alberto , Klersy Catherine , Toto Francesca , Torre Tiziano , Cassina Tiziano , Pedrazzini Giovanni , Demertzis Stefanos
Published: November 2022

Objective: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) through alternative access routes is indicated in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis and diseased peripheral arteries. We analysed and compared the outcome of patients undergoing transapical (TA) and direct transaortic (TAO) TAVR procedures. Methods: Preoperative characteristics, procedural details, and thirty-day outcome of patients undergoing transapical (TA-TAVR group) and direct transaortic (TAO-TAVR group) TAVR procedures were prospectively collected and retrospectively analysed. Results: From March 2012 to March 2022, 81 TA and 82 TAO-TAVR (total: 163 cases) were performed with balloon-expanding (n = 120; 73.6%) and self-expandable (n = 43; 26.4%) valves. The mean age was 79.7 ± 6.2 and 81.9 ± 6.7 years for the TA- and TAO-TAVR groups, respectively (p = 0.032). Females were more represented in the TAO-TAVR group (56% vs. 32%; p = 0.003) while TA-TAVR patients showed a higher prevalence of previous vascular surgery (20% vs. 6%; p = 0.01), previous cardiac surgery (51% vs. 3.6%; p < 0.001), and porcelain aorta (22% vs. 5%; p = 0.001). The mean ejection fraction was 49.0 ± 14.6% (TA) and 53.5 ± 12.2% (TAO) (p = 0.035) while mean gradients were 35.6 ± 13.2 mmHg (TA) and 40.4 ± 16.1 mmHg (TAO) (p = 0.045). The median EuroSCORE-II was 5.0% (IQR: 3.0–11.0) and 3.9% (IQR: 2.5–5.4) for the TA- and TAO-TAVR groups, respectively (p = 0.005). The procedural time was shorter for TA procedures (97 min (IQR: 882–118) vs. 102 min (IQR: 88–129); p = 0.133). Mortality at day 30 was 6% in both groups (p = 1.000); the permanent pacemaker implantation rate was similar (8.6% vs. 9.7%; p = 1.000), and hospital stay was shorter for the TAO group (8 days (IQR: 6–11) vs. 10 days (IQR: 7–13); p = 0.025). Conclusions: Our results show that transapical and direct transaortic TAVR in high-risk patients with diseased peripheral arteries provide satisfactory clinical results with similar thirty-day outcomes.
Correlation between Eye Movements and Asthenopia: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Liu Ziyuan , Zhang Kaiyun , Gao Shuang , Yang Jiarui , Qiu Weiqiang
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To analyze the correlation between eye movements and asthenopia so as to explore the possibility of using eye-tracking techniques for objective assessment of asthenopia. Methods: This prospective observational study used the computer visual syndrome questionnaire to assess the severity of asthenopia in 93 enrolled college students (age 20–30) who complained about asthenopia. Binocular accommodation and eye movements during the reading task were also examined. The correlations between questionnaire score and accommodation examination results and eye movement parameters were analyzed. Differences in eye movement parameters between the first and last reading paragraphs were compared. The trends in eye movement changes over time were observed. Results: About 81.7% of the subjects suffered from computer visual syndrome. Computer visual syndrome questionnaire total score was positively correlated with positive relative accommodation (p < 0.05). In the first reading paragraph, double vision was positively correlated with unknown saccades (all p < 0.05). Difficulty focusing at close range was positively correlated with total fixation duration, total visit duration, and reading speed (all p < 0.05). Feeling that sight was worsening was positively correlated with regressive saccades (p < 0.05). However, visual impairment symptoms were not significantly correlated with any accommodative function. In a total 20 min reading, significantly reduced eye movement parameters were: total fixation duration, fixation count, total visit duration, visit count, fixation duration mean, and reading speed (all p < 0.01). The eye movement parameters that were significantly increased were: visit duration mean and unknown saccades (all p < 0.001). Conclusion: Eye tracking could be used as an effective assessment for asthenopia. Among the various eye movement parameters, a decrease in fixation duration and counts may be one of the potential indicators related to asthenopia.
Association between Wrist Circumference and Risk of Any Fracture in Adults: Findings from 15 Years of Follow-Up in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Tamehri Zadeh Seyed Saeed , Moazzeni Seyyed Saeed , Asgari Samaneh , Mirbolouk Mohammadhassan , Azizi Fereidoun , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: November 2022

We evaluated whether wrist circumference (WrC), as a novel anthropometric measure, is associated with incidences of any fractures. The study population included 8288 adults (45.3% men) aged ≥30 years, who were followed for incidences of any fractures from 31 January 1999 to 16 March 2016. We used Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for well-known risk factors to evaluate the association of WrC, both as continuous and categorical variables (bottom tertile as reference), with incidences of any fractures and major osteoporotic fractures (MOF). Over 15 years of follow-ups, 348 fractures occurred (men = 162). For a 1 cm increase in WrC, hazard ratios (HRs) were 1.18 (95% CI: 1.03–1.35) for incident any fractures and 1.22 (1.01–1.49) for incident MOF. In addition to WrC, age, female sex, lower BMI, higher WC, current smoking, and usage of steroidal medications were significantly associated with the incidences of any fractures. Moreover, participants in the middle and top tertiles of WrC had a higher risk of incidence for any fractures [HR = 1.62 (1.19–2.20) and 1.70 (1.14–2.55), respectively, p-value for trend = 0.012]. We presented WrC as a strong and independent risk factor for incidences of any fractures that might be considered in the risk prediction of bone fracture in Iranian adults.
The Effect of Quadruple Therapy with Polaprezinc or Bismuth on Gut Microbiota after Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wu Dingkun , Li Xinyue , Li Tingyuan , Xie Wenbo , Liu Yujing , Tan Qinwen , Wu Wei , Sun Zhen , Chen Tingting , Jiang Haidong , Li Jun , Qin Junjie , Zhao Yuqian , Chen Wen
Published: November 2022

Background: Quadruple therapy with polaprezinc provided an alternative to Helicobacter pylori eradication; however, the effect on gut microbiota remains uncertain. This study aims to identify whether polaprezinc-containing quadruple therapy causes adverse microbiota effects among asymptomatic adults, compared with bismuth therapy. Methods: This was a randomized control trial. One hundred asymptomatic H. pylori-infected adults were randomly (1:1) assigned to two treatment groups (polaprezinc-containing therapy, PQT; or bismuth-containing therapy, BQT). Fecal samples were collected from subjects before and 4–8 weeks after therapy. Samples were sequenced for the V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene. Results: The relative abundance of the three dominant bacterial phyla (Bacteroidota, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria) accounted for more than 95% of each treatment group. The alpha diversity between eradications that succeeded and those that failed had no significant difference (p > 0.05). After successful eradication, the alpha diversity in the BQT group decreased in comparison with the baseline (p < 0.05). Subjects who were successfully eradicated by BQT showed considerably lower alpha diversity indices than those of the PQT at follow-up (p < 0.05). The abundance of Parasutterella in subjects who were successfully eradicated by PQT was four times greater than that of BQT (q < 0.05). Conclusion: A 14-day PQT may be superior to BQT in maintaining short-term gut microbiota homeostasis after H. pylori treatment. Our findings preliminarily provide evidence of the short-term impacts of the gut microbiota after PQT treatment of H. pylori infection.
Location In Vivo of the Innervation Zone in the Human Medial Gastrocnemius Using Imposed Contractions: A Comparison of the Usefulness of the M-Wave and H-Reflex
Authors: Guzmán-Venegas Rodrigo , Palma-Traro Felipe , Valencia Oscar , Hudson María , Pincheira Patricio
Published: November 2022

The anatomical territory where the neuromuscular junctions are grouped corresponds to the innervation zone (IZ). This can be located in-vivo using high-density electromyography and voluntary muscle contractions. However, in patients with motor impairment, the use of contractions imposed by electrical stimulation (ES) could be an alternative. The present study has two aims: Firstly, to describe the location of the IZ in-vivo of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) using imposed contractions by ES. Secondly, to compare the usefulness of M-waves and H-reflexes to localize the IZs. Twenty-four volunteers participated (age: 21.2 ± 1.5 years). ES was elicited in the tibial nerve to obtain M-waves and H-reflexes in the MG. The evaluators used these responses to localize the IZs relative to anatomical landmarks. M-wave and H-reflex IZ frequency identification were compared. The IZs of the MG were mostly located in the cephalocaudal direction, at 39.7% of the leg length and 34% of the knee’s condylar width. The IZs were most frequently identified in the M-wave (83.33%, 22/24) compared to the H-reflex (8.33%, 2/24) (p > 0.001). Imposed contractions revealed that the IZ of the MG is located at 39.7% of the leg length. To locate the IZs of the MG muscle, the M-wave is more useful than the H-reflex.
Remote Training for Medical Staff in Low-Resource Environments Using Augmented Reality
Authors: Hale Austin , Fischer Marc , Schütz Laura , Fuchs Henry , Leuze Christoph
Published: November 2022

This work aims to leverage medical augmented reality (AR) technology to counter the shortage of medical experts in low-resource environments. We present a complete and cross-platform proof-of-concept AR system that enables remote users to teach and train medical procedures without expensive medical equipment or external sensors. By seeing the 3D viewpoint and head movements of the teacher, the student can follow the teacher’s actions on the real patient. Alternatively, it is possible to stream the 3D view of the patient from the student to the teacher, allowing the teacher to guide the student during the remote session. A pilot study of our system shows that it is easy to transfer detailed instructions through this remote teaching system and that the interface is easily accessible and intuitive for users. We provide a performant pipeline that synchronizes, compresses, and streams sensor data through parallel efficiency.
The Insulin-like Growth Factor Signaling Pathway in Breast Cancer: An Elusive Therapeutic Target
Authors: Lee Ji-Sun , Tocheny Claire E. , Shaw Leslie M.
Published: November 2022

In this review, we provide an overview of the role of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling pathway in breast cancer and discuss its potential as a therapeutic target. The IGF pathway ligands, IGF-1 and IGF-2, and their receptors, primarily IGF-1R, are important for normal mammary gland biology, and dysregulation of their expression and function drives breast cancer risk and progression through activation of downstream signaling effectors, often in a subtype-dependent manner. The IGF signaling pathway has also been implicated in resistance to current therapeutic strategies, including ER and HER2 targeting drugs. Unfortunately, efforts to target IGF signaling for the treatment of breast cancer have been unsuccessful, due to a number of factors, most significantly the adverse effects of disrupting IGF signaling on normal glucose metabolism. We highlight here the recent discoveries that provide enthusiasm for continuing efforts to target IGF signaling for the treatment of breast cancer patients.
Chromate-Free Corrosion Protection Strategies for Magnesium Alloys—A Review: Part III—Corrosion Inhibitors and Combining Them with Other Protection Strategies
Authors: Vaghefinazari Bahram , Wierzbicka Ewa , Visser Peter , Posner Ralf , Arrabal Raúl , Matykina Endzhe , Mohedano Marta , Blawert Carsten , Zheludkevich Mikhail L. , Lamaka Sviatlana V.
Published: November 2022

Owing to the unique active corrosion protection characteristic of hexavalent chromium-based systems, they have been projected to be highly effective solutions against the corrosion of many engineering metals. However, hexavalent chromium, rendered a highly toxic and carcinogenic substance, is being phased out of industrial applications. Thus, over the past few years, extensive and concerted efforts have been made to develop environmentally friendly alternative technologies with comparable or better corrosion protection performance to that of hexavalent chromium-based technologies. The introduction of corrosion inhibitors to a coating system on magnesium surface is a cost-effective approach not only for improving the overall corrosion protection performance, but also for imparting active inhibition during the service life of the magnesium part. Therefore, in an attempt to resemble the unique active corrosion protection characteristic of the hexavalent chromium-based systems, the incorporation of inhibitors to barrier coatings on magnesium alloys has been extensively investigated. In Part III of the Review, several types of corrosion inhibitors for magnesium and its alloys are reviewed. A discussion of the state-of-the-art inhibitor systems, such as iron-binding inhibitors and inhibitor mixtures, is presented, and perspective directions of research are outlined, including in silico or computational screening of corrosion inhibitors. Finally, the combination of corrosion inhibitors with other corrosion protection strategies is reviewed. Several reported highly protective coatings with active inhibition capabilities stemming from the on-demand activation of incorporated inhibitors can be considered a promising replacement for hexavalent chromium-based technologies, as long as their deployment is adequately addressed.
Does Current Knowledge Give a Variety of Possibilities for the Stabilization/Solidification of Soil Contaminated with Heavy Metals?—A Review
Authors: Lal Agnieszka , Fronczyk Joanna
Published: November 2022

Stabilization/solidification of contaminated soil is a process that allows simultaneous strengthening of the soil structure, disposal of contamination and recycling of industrial waste, implemented as substitutes for Portland cement or additives to improve the properties of the final product obtained. Extremely intensive development of studies pertaining to the S/S process prompted the authors to systematize the binders used and the corresponding methods of binding the contamination, and to perform an analysis of the effectiveness expressed in geomechanical properties and leachability. The study pays close attention to the types of additives and binders of waste origin, as well as the ecological and economic benefits of their use. The methods of preparing and caring for the specimens were reviewed, in addition to the methods of testing the effectiveness of the S/S process, including the influence of aging factors on long-term properties. The results of the analyses carried out are presented in the form of diagrams and charts, facilitating individual evaluation of the various solutions for the stabilization/solidification of soils contaminated with heavy metals.
Derivatives of Imidazole and Carbazole as Bifunctional Materials for Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Bezvikonnyi Oleksandr , Bernard Ronit Sebastine , Andruleviciene Viktorija , Volyniuk Dmytro , Keruckiene Rasa , Vaiciulaityte Kamile , Labanauskas Linas , Grazulevicius Juozas Vidas
Published: November 2022

New derivatives of carbazole and diphenyl imidazole for potential multiple applications were synthesized and investigated. Their properties were studied by thermal, optical, photophysical, electrochemical, and photoelectrical measurements. The compounds exhibited relatively narrow blue light-emission bands, which is favorable for deep-blue electroluminescent devices. The synthesized derivatives of imidazole and carbazole were tested as fluorescent emitters for OLEDs. The device showed deep-blue emissions with CIE color coordinates of (0.16, 0.08) and maximum quantum efficiency of 1.1%. The compounds demonstrated high triplet energy values above 3.0 eV and hole drift mobility exceeding 10−4 cm2/V·s at high electric fields. One of the compounds having two diphenyl imidazole moieties and tert-butyl-substituted carbazolyl groups showed bipolar charge transport with electron drift mobility reaching 10−4 cm2/V·s at electric field of 8 × 105 V/cm. The synthesized compounds were investigated as hosts for green, red and sky-blue phosphorescent OLEDs. The green-, red- and sky-blue-emitting devices demonstrated maximum quantum efficiencies of 8.3%, 6.4% and 7.6%, respectively.
Estimation of the Interaction Forces in a Compliant pHRI Gripper
Authors: Ruiz-Ruiz Francisco J. , Urdiales Cristina , Gómez-de-Gabriel Jesús M.
Published: November 2022

Physical human–robot interaction (pHRI) is an essential skill for robots expected to work with humans, such as assistive or rescue robots. However, due to hard safety and compliance constraints, pHRI is still underdeveloped in practice. Tactile sensing is vital for pHRI, as constant occlusions while grasping make it hard to rely on vision or range sensors alone. More specifically, measuring interaction forces in the gripper is crucial to avoid injuries, predict user intention and perform successful collaborative movements. This work exploits the inherent compliance of a gripper with four underactuated fingers which was previously designed by the authors and designed to manipulate human limbs. A new analytical model is proposed to calculate the external interaction forces by combining all finger forces, which are estimated by using the gripper proprioceptive sensor readings uniquely. An experimental evaluation of the method and an example application in a control system with active compliance have been included to evaluate performance. The results prove that the proposed finger arrangement offers good performance at measuring the lateral interaction forces and torque around the gripper’s Z-axis, providing a convenient and efficient way of implementing adaptive and compliant grasping for pHRI applications.
A Blockchain-Based Data Sharing System with Enhanced Auditability
Authors: Xiao Yao , Xu Lei , Chen Zikang , Zhang Can , Zhu Liehuang
Published: November 2022

Cloud platforms provide a low-cost and convenient way for users to share data. One important issue of cloud-based data sharing systems is how to prevent the sensitive information contained in users’ data from being disclosed. Existing studies often utilize cryptographic primitives, such as attribute-based encryption and proxy re-encryption, to protect data privacy. These approaches generally rely on a centralized server which may cause a single point of failure problem. Blockchain is known for its ability to solve such a problem. Some blockchain-based approaches have been proposed to realize privacy-preserving data sharing. However, these approaches did not fully explore the auditability provided by the blockchain. The dishonest cloud server can share data with a requester without notifying the data owner or being logged by the blockchain. In this paper, we propose a blockchain-based privacy-preserving data sharing system with enhanced auditability. The proposed system follows the idea of hybrid encryption to protect data privacy. The data to be shared are encrypted with a symmetric key, and the symmetric key is encrypted with a joint public key which is the sum of multiple blockchain nodes’ public keys. Only if a data requester is authorized, the blockchain nodes will be triggered to execute a verifiable key switch protocol. By using the output of the protocol, the data requester can get the plaintext of the symmetric key. The blockchain nodes participate in both the authorization process and the key switch process, which means the behavior of the data requester is witnessed by multi-parties and is auditable. We implement the proposed system on Hyperledger Fabric. The simulation results show that the performance overhead is acceptable.
Polynomial Fuzzy Information Granule-Based Time Series Prediction
Authors: Yang Xiyang , Zhang Shiqing , Zhang Xinjun , Yu Fusheng
Published: November 2022

Fuzzy information granulation transfers the time series analysis from the numerical platform to the granular platform, which enables us to study the time series at a different granularity. In previous studies, each fuzzy information granule in a granular time series can reflect the average, range, and linear trend characteristics of the data in the corresponding time window. In order to get a more general information granule, this paper proposes polynomial fuzzy information granules, each of which can reflect both the linear trend and the nonlinear trend of the data in a time window. The distance metric of the proposed information granules is given theoretically. After studying the distance measure of the polynomial fuzzy information granule and its geometric interpretation, we design a time series prediction method based on the polynomial fuzzy information granules and fuzzy inference system. The experimental results show that the proposed prediction method can achieve a good long-term prediction.
Impressionable Rational Choice: Revealed-Preference Theory with Framing Effects
Authors: Barokas Guy , Ünveren Burak
Published: November 2022

Revealed preference is one of the most influential ideas in economics. It is, however, not clear how it can be generally applied in cases where agents’ choices depend on arbitrary changes in the decision environment. In this paper, we propose a generalization of the classic rational choice theory that allows for such framing effects. Frames are modeled as different presentations (e.g., visual or conceptual) of the alternatives that may affect choice. Our main premise is that framing effects are neutral (i.e., independent of labeling the alternatives). An agent exhibiting these neutral framing effects who is otherwise rational, is called impressionable rational. We show that our theory encompasses many familiar behavioral models such as status-quo bias, satisficing, present bias, framing effects resulting from indecisiveness, certain forms of limited attention, categorization bias, and the salience theory of choice, as well as hybrid models. Moreover, in all these models, sufficiently rich choice data allow our theory to identify the “correct” underlying preferences without invoking each specific cognitive process. Additionally, we introduce a falsifiable axiom that completely characterizes the behavior of agents who are impressionable rational.
Well-Posedness and Exponential Stability of Swelling Porous with Gurtin–Pipkin Thermoelasticity
Authors: Apalara Tijani Abdul-Aziz , Almutairi Ohud Bulayhan
Published: November 2022

The focus of this work is to investigate the well-posedness and exponential stability of a swelling porous system with the Gurtin–Pipkin thermal effect as the only source of damping. The well-posedness result is achieved using an essential corollary to the Lumer–Phillips Theorem. By constructing a suitable Lyapunov functional, we establish an exponential stability result without the conventional limitation to the system’s parameters (coined a stability number in the literature). Generally, the study demonstrates that the unique dissipation from the Gurtin–Pipkin thermal law is sufficient to stabilize the system exponentially, irrespective of the system’s parameters.
Blockchain-Based Distributed Federated Learning in Smart Grid
Authors: Antal Marcel , Mihailescu Vlad , Cioara Tudor , Anghel Ionut
Published: November 2022

The participation of prosumers in demand-response programs is essential for the success of demand-side management in renewable-powered energy grids. Unfortunately, the engagement is still low due to concerns related to the privacy of their energy data used in the prediction processes. In this paper, we propose a blockchain-based distributed federated learning (FL) technique for energy-demand prediction that combines FL with blockchain to provide data privacy and trust features for energy prosumers. The privacy-sensitive energy data are stored locally at edge prosumer nodes without revealing it to third parties, with only the learned local model weights being shared using a blockchain network. The global federated model is not centralized but distributed and replicated over the blockchain overlay, ensuring the model immutability and provenance of parameter updates. We had proposed smart contracts to deal with the integration of local machine-learning prediction models with the blockchain, defining functions for the model parameters’ scaling and reduction of blockchain overhead. The centralized, local-edge, and blockchain-integrated models are comparatively evaluated for prediction of energy demand 24 h ahead using a multi-layer perceptron model and the monitored energy data of several prosumers. The results show only a slight decrease in prediction accuracy in the case of blockchain-based distributed FL with reliable data privacy support compared with the centralized learning solution.
Mathematical Models for Cholera Dynamics—A Review
Authors: Wang Jin
Published: November 2022

Cholera remains a significant public health burden in many countries and regions of the world, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms associated with its transmission, spread, and control. Mathematical modeling offers a valuable research tool to investigate cholera dynamics and explore effective intervention strategies. In this article, we provide a review of the current state in the modeling studies of cholera. Starting from an introduction of basic cholera transmission models and their applications, we survey model extensions in several directions that include spatial and temporal heterogeneities, effects of disease control, impacts of human behavior, and multi-scale infection dynamics. We discuss some challenges and opportunities for future modeling efforts on cholera dynamics, and emphasize the importance of collaborations between different modeling groups and different disciplines in advancing this research area.
An Analytical Model for Hysteretic Pressure-Sensitive Permeability of Nanoporous Media
Authors: Lei Gang , Liao Qinzhuo , Chen Weiqing , Lu Chunhua , Zhou Xianmin
Published: November 2022

Hysteretic pressure-sensitive permeability of nanohybrids composed of substantial nanopores is critical to characterizing fluid flow through nanoporous media. Due to the nanoscale effect (gas slippage), complex and heterogeneous pore structures of nanoporous media, the essential controls on permeability hysteresis of nanohybrids are not determined. In this study, a hysteretic pressure sensitive permeability model for nitrogen flow through dry nanoporous media is proposed. The derived model takes into account the nanoscale effect and pore deformation due to effective stress. The model is validated by comparing it with the experimental data. The results show that the calculated permeability and porosity are consistent with the measured results with the maximum relative error of 6.08% and 0.5%, respectively. Moreover, the hysteretic pressure-sensitive permeability of nanohybrids is related to effective stress, gas slippage, pore microstructure parameters, grain quadrilateral angle, and the loss rate of grain quadrilateral angle. The nanoscale effect is crucial to the permeability of nanoporous media. In addition, as impacted by the comprehensive impact of multiple relevant influential parameters, permeability during the pressure unloading process is not a monotonous function but presents complicated shapes. The proposed model can explain, quantify, and predict the permeability hysteresis effect of nanoporous media reasonably well.
Towards Wireless Detection of Surface Modification of Silicon Nanowires by an RF Approach
Authors: Requena Florian , Ahoulou Samuel , Barbot Nicolas , Kaddour Darine , Nedelec Jean-Marie , Baron Thierry , Perret Etienne
Published: November 2022

This paper shows the possibility to detect the presence of grafted molecules on the surface of silicon nanowires with a wireless RF radar approach based on the measurement of the backscattered signal of a resonant structure on which the nanowires are deposited. The measured resonance frequency allows the determination of the intrinsic properties related to temperature and humidity variations, which can be related to the presence of the grafted molecules. Several functionalizations of nanowires have been realized and characterized. For the first time, an RF approach is used to detect significant differences related to the presence of grafted molecules on the surface of nanowires. In addition to detecting their presence, the obtained results show the potential of the radar approach to identify the type of functionalization of nanowires. A set of six different grafted molecules (including octadecyltrichlorosilane, ethynylpyrene, N3) was tested and correctly separated with the proposed approach. Various measurements of the same samples showed a good repeatability which made the approach compatible with the possibility of differentiating the molecules with each other by radar reading. Moreover, discussions about the application of such functionalizations are made to increase the sensibility of sensors using a radar approach.
A Study on Two Conditions for the Realization of Artificial Empathy and Its Cognitive Foundation
Authors: Cui Zhongliang , Liu Jing
Published: November 2022

The realization of artificial empathy is conditional on the following: on the one hand, human emotions can be recognized by AI and, on the other hand, the emotions presented by artificial intelligence are consistent with human emotions. Faced with these two conditions, what we explored is how to identify emotions, and how to prove that AI has the ability to reflect on emotional consciousness in the process of cognitive processing, In order to explain the first question, this paper argues that emotion identification mainly includes the following three processes: emotional perception, emotional cognition and emotional reflection. It proposes that emotional display mainly includes the following three dimensions: basic emotions, secondary emotions and abstract emotions. On this basis, the paper proposes that the realization of artificial empathy needs to meet the following three cognitive processing capabilities: the integral processing ability of external emotions, the integral processing ability of proprioceptive emotions and the processing ability of integrating internal and external emotions. We are open to whether the second difficulty can be addressed. In order to gain the reflective ability of emotional consciousness for AI, the paper proposes that artificial intelligence should include consistency on identification of external emotions and emotional expression, processing of ontological emotions and external emotions, integration of internal and external emotions and generation of proprioceptive emotions.
Review of Development and Comparison of Surface Thermometry Methods in Combustion Environments: Principles, Current State of the Art, and Applications
Authors: Liu Siyu , Huang Yu , He Yong , Zhu Yanqun , Wang Zhihua
Published: November 2022

Temperature is one of the most important parameters in the combustion processes. Accurate surface temperature can help to gain insight into the combustion characteristics of various solid or liquid fuels, as well as to evaluate the operating status of combustion power facilities such as internal combustion engines and gas turbines. This paper mainly summarizes and compares the main surface thermometry techniques, from the aspects of their principles, current state of development, and specific applications. These techniques are divided into two categories: contact-based thermometry and non-intrusive thermometry. In contact-based thermometry, conventional thermocouples as well as thin-film thermocouples are introduced. These methods have been developed for a long time and are simple and economical. However, such methods have disadvantages such as interference to flow and temperature field and poor dynamic performance. Furthermore, this paper reviews the latest non-intrusive thermometry methods, which have gained more interest in recent years, including radiation thermometry, laser-induced phosphorescence, liquid crystal thermography, the temperature-sensitive paint technique, and the temperature-indicating paint technique. Among them, we highlighted radiation thermometry, which has the widest measurement ranges and is easy to acquire results with spatial resolution, as well as laser-induced phosphorescence thermometry, which is not interfered with by the emissivity and surrounding environment, and has the advantages of fast response, high sensitivity, and small errors. Particularly, laser-induced phosphoresce has attracted a great deal of attention, as it gets rid of the influence of emissivity. In recent years, it has been widely used in the thermometry of various combustion devices and fuels. At the end of this paper, the research progress of the above-mentioned laser-induced phosphorescence and other techniques in recent years for the surface thermometry of various solid or liquid fuels is summarized, as well as applications of combustion facilities such as internal combustion engines, gas turbines, and aero engines, which reveal the great development potential of laser-induced phosphorescence technology in the field of surface thermometry.
Fault Detection for CNC Machine Tools Using Auto-Associative Kernel Regression Based on Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Jung Seunghwan , Kim Minseok , Kim Baekcheon , Kim Jinyong , Kim Eunkyeong , Kim Jonggeun , Lee Hyeonuk , Kim Sungshin
Published: November 2022

In manufacturing processes using computerized numerical control (CNC) machines, machine tools are operated repeatedly for a long period for machining hard and difficult-to-machine materials, such as stainless steel. These operating conditions frequently result in tool breakage. The failure of machine tools significantly degrades the product quality and efficiency of the target process. To solve these problems, various studies have been conducted for detecting faults in machine tools. However, the most related studies used only the univariate signal obtained from CNC machines. The fault-detection methods using univariate signals have a limitation in that multivariate models cannot be applied. This can restrict in performance improvement of the fault detection. To address this problem, we employed empirical mode decomposition to construct a multivariate dataset from the univariate signal. Subsequently, auto-associative kernel regression was used to detect faults in the machine tool. To verify the proposed method, we obtained a univariate current signal measured from the machining center in an actual industrial plant. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method successfully detects faults in the actual machine tools.
Special Issue on Modelling, Simulation and Control in Combustion Processes of Renewable Fuels
Authors: Pitel’ Ján , Hrdlička Jan , Pavlenko Ivan
Published: November 2022

The modeling and simulation of combustion processes is still a challenging field [...]
Study on Gas Invasion Behavior of Gas–Liquid Displacement in Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Ye Cheng , Gong Jiaqin , Liu Kecheng , Pei Jingjing , Xu Shengjiang , Xu Peng
Published: November 2022

When drilling or exploiting fractured formations, gas fluid displacement and invasion often occur, and gas invasion is very subtle and difficult to find. The gas in the fracture enters the wellbore and arrives near the wellhead with the drilling fluid. Improper treatment may lead to serious accidents such as lost circulation and blowout. In this study, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation software for modeling and grid generation, based on the volume of fluid (VOF) method, the gas invasion behavior under different conditions was simulated to explore the flow process and characteristics of gas invasion, and the effects of different drilling fluid properties and fracture morphology on gas invasion were analyzed. The experimental results show that the drilling fluid enters the fracture to compress the gas, making the pressure in the fracture greater than that in the wellbore, thus leading to the occurrence of gas invasion. The viscosity and density of the drilling fluid have different effects on the gas invasion process. The higher the viscosity, the smaller the possibility of gas invasion. However, when the viscosity of the drilling fluid gradually increases from 10–50 MPa·s, the change of gas invasion rate is small, all within 1.0–1.2 m/s. The higher the density, the more conducive to the occurrence of gas invasion. The inlet pressure has no obvious effect on the occurrence of gas invasion, and the occurrence time of the gas invasion fluctuates in 0.35 s at 0.5–2.5 MPa. With the increase in the fracture width and length, the possibility of gas invasion decreases, but there is an extreme value for the fracture height. The time of gas invasion does not change beyond this extreme value. When the fracture height is 100–700 mm, the time of gas invasion increases with the increase in the height; when the height is 700–900 mm, the gas invasion time does not change. These results provide a practical and effective method for enhancing oil recovery, preventing and treating gas invasion in gas–liquid flooding.
HADD: High-Accuracy Detection of Depressed Mood
Authors: Liu Yu , Kang Kyoung-Don , Doe Mi Jin
Published: November 2022

Depression is a serious mood disorder that is under-recognized and under-treated. Recent advances in mobile/wearable technology and ML (machine learning) have provided opportunities to detect the depressed moods of participants in their daily lives with their consent. To support high-accuracy, ubiquitous detection of depressed mood, we propose HADD, which provides new capabilities. First, HADD supports multimodal data analysis in order to enhance the accuracy of ubiquitous depressed mood detection by analyzing not only objective sensor data, but also subjective EMA (ecological momentary assessment) data collected by using mobile devices. In addition, HADD improves upon the accuracy of state-of-the-art ML algorithms for depressed mood detection via effective feature selection, data augmentation, and two-stage outlier detection. In our evaluation, HADD significantly enhanced the accuracy of a comprehensive set of ML models for depressed mood detection.
South American National Contributions to Knowledge of the Effects of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in Wild Animals: Current and Future Directions
Authors: Rojas-Hucks Sylvia , Rodriguez-Jorquera Ignacio A. , Nimpstch Jorge , Bahamonde Paulina , Benavides Julio A. , Chiang Gustavo , Pulgar José , Galbán-Malagón Cristóbal J.
Published: November 2022

Human pressure due to industrial and agricultural development has resulted in a biodiversity crisis. Environmental pollution is one of its drivers, including contamination of wildlife by chemicals emitted into the air, soil, and water. Chemicals released into the environment, even at low concentrations, may pose a negative effect on organisms. These chemicals might modify the synthesis, metabolism, and mode of action of hormones. This can lead to failures in reproduction, growth, and development of organisms potentially impacting their fitness. In this review, we focused on assessing the current knowledge on concentrations and possible effects of endocrine disruptor chemicals (metals, persistent organic pollutants, and others) in studies performed in South America, with findings at reproductive and thyroid levels. Our literature search revealed that most studies have focused on measuring the concentrations of compounds that act as endocrine disruptors in animals at the systemic level. However, few studies have evaluated the effects at a reproductive level, while information at thyroid disorders is scarce. Most studies have been conducted in fish by researchers from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Colombia. Comparison of results across studies is difficult due to the lack of standardization of units in the reported data. Future studies should prioritize research on emergent contaminants, evaluate effects on native species and the use of current available methods such as the OMICs. Additionally, there is a primary focus on organisms related to aquatic environments, and those inhabiting terrestrial environments are scarce or nonexistent. Finally, we highlight a lack of funding at a national level in the reviewed topic that may influence the observed low scientific productivity in several countries, which is often negatively associated with their percentage of protected areas.