bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactions between Intrinsic Soil Properties and Deep Tillage in the Sustainable Management of Perennial Crops
Authors: Azevedo Raphael Passaglia , Silva Lucas de Castro Moreira da , Pereira Fernandes Antonio Costa , Peche Pedro Maranha , Pio Leila Aparecida Salles , Mancini Marcelo , Curi Nilton , Silva Bruno Montoani
Published: January 2023

Choosing the appropriate management system is essential for sustainable agricultural practices. Yet, soil-specific properties at the subsurface are seldom considered when choosing the appropriate tillage system. This study assessed the effect of tillage depth on physical–hydraulic properties in three contrasting soil classes in the establishment of perennial crops. Tillage practices were evaluated in soils with natural dense layers (Inceptisols and Ultisols), and soils with very small and stable granular structure (Oxisols). From least to most aggressive, tested tillage systems included surface furrowing + plant holes (MT); plowing followed by two diskings + furrowing (CT); plowing followed by two diskings + subsoiling (SB); and plowing followed by two diskings + rotary hoeing (DM). Physical indicators with the greatest explanatory power were relative field capacity (RFC, 97%), aeration capacity (AC, 95%), macroporosity (Pmac, 95%), the S index (Sgi, 89%), and bulk density (Bd, 81%). DM caused the greatest modification in soil structure, especially at the surface. It increased values of AC, Pmac, and Sgi, and reduced Bd values. Only deep tillage systems (DM and SB) improved soil structure in deeper layers. Highest Bd values were observed for MT (1.47 g cm−3), and lowest for DM (1.21 g cm−3). Soil classes responded differently to soil tillage systems. DM was most effective in soils with densified layers (Inceptisol and Ultisol). Effects were less expressive in the studied Oxisol. Comparing MT and DM, Pmac increased by more than 100% in the studied Ultisol, but by less than 20% in the Oxisol. No tillage system affected the Oxisol’s soil structure in deeper layers, due to its small and stable granular structure. The choice of optimal tillage strategies should consider soil-specific properties, especially at greater depths, to guarantee more productive and sustainable crop systems.
Investigating the Effect of Gamma and Neutron Irradiation on Portland Cement Provided with Waste Silicate Glass
Authors: Eid Mohanad S. , Bondouk Ibrahim I. , Saleh Hosam M. , Omar Khaled M. , Diab Hassan M.
Published: January 2023

In this study, samples of commercial Portland cement mixed with 30% weight of crushed waste silicate glass were prepared in the shape of well-dried cylinders. Then, their physical and mechanical properties were investigated for two types of samples: samples without exposure and samples with exposure to gamma-ray and neutron irradiation. A notable deterioration of the physical properties of the irradiated samples relative to the non-irradiated ones was recorded. All the spectroscopic analyses were performed for the samples with exposure and without exposure to gamma-ray and neutron irradiation. The XRD emerging peaks of irradiated samples were studied to estimate the presence and stabilities of major peaks indicating the presence of the main compositions of cement with the amorphous nature of glass. FT-IR transmittance spectra were identified and the bonds were located close to those of identical glasses. Moreover, SEM images and EDX analysis were conducted on the two types of composite samples (without exposure and with exposure to gamma and neutron irradiation) to specify the change in the physical appearance and the chemical composition after irradiation. The attenuation parameters were computed theoretically with the assistance of Phy-X/PSD software to evaluate the gamma-ray and neutron shielding properties by defining the composition and the density of the samples. The irradiation was found to have a negative impact on the shielding ability of the prepared samples where there was an over-reduction in the parameters calculated with the probability that the damage may increase with longer exposure to the radiation.
Influencing Green Purchase Intention through Eco Labels and User-Generated Content
Authors: Panopoulos Anastasios , Poulis Athanasios , Theodoridis Prokopis , Kalampakas Antonios
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the study is to investigate how environmental concern, eco-labelling, influencers and user-generated content affect Generation Z’s green purchase intention. The objective of this study is to contribute with a new scope that combines influencers and user-generated content on digital platforms with environmental concern for Generation Z. The study also aims to add new value in predicting Generation Z’s green purchase intention and results that can be implemented in future marketing strategies. To test the framework, a quantitative research approach, with an online survey, was applied to collect data from Generation Z. The sample size consisted of 393 individuals from Generation Z. Structural Equation Modelling was applied to test the hypothesized framework. All hypotheses were accepted, and hence, this research has identified key variables to predict Generation Z’s green purchase intention. Additionally, this paper found that environmental concern has a significant positive impact on Generation Z’s user-generated content and eco-labelling, and influencers positively affect Generation Z’s user-generated content. This study can aid companies that employ an influencer marketing approach to comprehend how they can motivate customers to buy sustainable products more frequently. This study provides crucial and valuable insights into further understanding how the sustainable consumption behavior of Generation Z can be impacted by the utilization of influencer marketing and their concern for the environment. It also provides a deeper understanding of how influencers and their perceived concerns for the environment can be combined with user-generated content and eco-labelling, as well as subsequent effects on the green purchase intention of members of Generation Z.
Fate and Transport of Lead and Copper in Calcareous Soil
Authors: Alghamdi Abdulaziz G. , Alasmary Zafer
Published: January 2023

Heavy metals transport to groundwater relies on the characteristics of soil, such as carbonate and clay minerals, organic matter content, soil pH, and some other factors. Most of the heavy metals in calcareous soils are precipitated as metal carbonate minerals; consequently, their transport to the groundwater is not anticipated. Therefore, the current study focused on the impacts of calcium carbonate presence on the adsorption and transport of lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) in calcareous soil using batch and column experiments. To elucidate the contaminants removal mechanisms in calcareous soils, extensive laboratory batch investigations were conducted to study the equilibrium kinetic and adsorption isotherm characteristics of the two studied heavy metals. The quick adsorption of Pb2+ and Cu2+ by soil was seen in kinetics trials. In addition, Pb2+ and Cu2+ sorption onto the soil was best described by the pseudo-second order kinetic model (R2 = 0.9979 and 0.9995 for Cu2+ and Pb2+, respectively). To explain the equilibrium sorption data, the Freundlich isotherm showed the best fitness to Pb2+ (R2 = 0.96) and Cu2+ (R2 = 0.98), collectively. The Freundlich parameters revealed that the Pb2+ has favorable adsorption; however, Cu2+ has unfavorable adsorption onto the soil. The results of column experiments showed the higher binding of Pb2+ than Cu2+ to the top surface of the soil column, making the movement of these two metals very slow. In columns, most of the Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions were sorbed at an initial 5 and 10 cm, respectively. The findings of this study will help in understanding the fate of heavy metals in calcareous soils.
An MILP Model for Energy-Conscious Flexible Job Shop Problem with Transportation and Sequence-Dependent Setup Times
Authors: Meng Leilei , Zhang Biao , Gao Kaizhou , Duan Peng
Published: January 2023

As environmental awareness grows, energy-aware scheduling is attracting increasing attention. Compared with traditional flexible job shop scheduling problem (FJSP), FJSP, with considering sequence-dependent setup times and transportation times (FJSP-SDST-T), is closer to real production. In existing research, little research has focused on FJSP-SDST-T with the minimization energy consumption. In order to make up the gap, a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model has been formulated to solve FJSP-SDST-T with minimizing energy. Firstly, the total energy consumption of the workshop included the processing energy consumption, setup energy consumption, idle energy consumption, transportation energy consumption and common energy consumption, which were analyzed and formulated by introducing related decision variables. Then, the MILP model was detailedly formulated from the formulation of the energy consumption composition, the objective function, the decision variables and the constraint sets and the linearization. Finally, experiments were carried out on extended benchmark cases and the results showed the effectiveness of the MILP model.
Risk Analysis and Evaluation of Nuclear Security Radiation Events in Spent Fuel Reprocessing Plants
Authors: Wei Cuiyue , Xu Shoulong , Zou Shuliang , Zhao Fang , Qin Zhiwei , Dong Hanfeng , Hou Zhixiong
Published: January 2023

Spent fuel reprocessing is of great significance to the nuclear fuel cycle and the sustainable development of nuclear energy. At the same time, nuclear security radiation incidents in the spent fuel reprocessing plant are also related to national personal and property safety, which play a pivotal role. In this paper, the spent fuel reprocessing plant is divided into four plant areas: the main process area, the three-waste area, the auxiliary equipment area, and the pre-plant area, which are further subdivided into 12 evaluation units. The expert scoring method is used to score and evaluate the possibility of eight basic nuclear accident types in each area, namely radioactive dispersal device, computer nuclear security, destruction of nuclear facilities, transportation nuclear security, internal threat, potential threat, illegal transfer, and theft. According to the professional titles, length of service, education and other qualifications of experts, different weights are assigned to the experts. The scoring results are applied to the Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) of nuclear security events as the probability of basic events, so as to obtain the risk of each basic event. At the same time, the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method and probability–mathematical statistics method are used to evaluate each evaluation unit to determine the risk of each evaluation unit and the plant area. There results show that the main process area has the highest risk degree, while the pre-plant area has the lowest risk degree, and there is a 1.5-fold relationship. This research provides theoretical and technical support for the safety management and operation of spent fuel reprocessing plants. The analysis results of this paper can be used as a reference for the proportion of nuclear security protection improvements in each plant area, so as to achieve an efficient safety protection effect. The research method in this paper can be also applicable to other similar places by providing as input the corresponding probability of occurrence to obtain the index of its risk degree, so as to reasonably allocate funds and manpower and reduce risks.
Barriers, Challenges, and Requirements for ICT Usage among Sub-Assistant Agricultural Officers in Bangladesh: Toward Sustainability in Agriculture
Authors: Ahsan Mamiya Binte , Leifeng Guo , Safiul Azam Fardous Mohammad , Xu Beibei , Rayhan Shah Johir , Kaium Abdul , Wensheng Wang
Published: January 2023

The present work is the first detailed study of sub-assistant agricultural officers (SAAOs), who are key players in delivering agriculture extension services in Bangladesh. We determined the status of information and communication technology (ICT) usage, knowledge gaps, approaches and tools for information delivery, barriers and obstacles to ICT usage, requirements for adoption, and possible solutions for efficient agriculture extension advisory services. We surveyed key respondents (SAAOs, n = 117) from nine sub-districts under the six administrative districts of Bangladesh with a semi-structured questionnaire. We found that 73.2% of all extension officers had basic knowledge of ICT. We observed that the most effective tool for information dissemination was field visits (90.90%, Moulvibazar district) and the most frequent extension approach was training and workshops (77.31%, Dhaka district). The best sources for information collection were broadcast media and social media. While delivering information, difficulty was found due to technical obstacles in Gazipur district, Rajshahi district, Sylhet district, and Dhaka district among 60% to 70% of SAAOs. However, farmers’ ignorance was reported in both Feni district and Moulvibazar district (36.36%). A shortage of computers in Gazipur district (56.25%) was an essential barrier to ICT usage for extension services. A major challenge in using ICT applications in Dhaka district was inadequate training support (64.51%). Mobile devices, internet connectivity, updated ICT applications, and a farmers’ database were the most important supports needed for the SAAO’s skilled advisory activities. In conclusion, our results and recommendations will help to redesign policies to improve infrastructure and allocate funding for capacity and skill development and ICT-based innovations in this sector to achieve sustainable extension and advisory services and attain food security in Bangladesh.
Formation Kinetics Evaluation for Designing Sustainable Carbon Dioxide-Based Hydrate Desalination via Tryptophan as a Biodegradable Hydrate Promotor
Authors: Khan Muhammad Saad , Lal Bhajan , Abulkhair Hani , Ahmed Iqbal , Shariff Azmi Mohd , Almatrafi Eydhah , Alsaiari Abdulmohsen , Bamaga Omar
Published: January 2023

Desalination using hydrates is a developing field, and initial research promises a commercially feasible approach. The current study proposes the natural amino acid, namely tryptophan, as a biodegradable gas hydrate promotor for desalination applications to speed up the hydrate formation process. Its kinetic behavior and separation capabilities with CO2 hydrates were investigated. The studies were carried out with varying concentrations (0.5, 1, and 2 wt.%) of tryptophan at different experimental temperatures (274.15, 275.15, 276.15, and 277.15 K) at 3.5 and 4.0 MPa pressure and 1 wt.% brine concentration. The induction time, initial formation rates, gas uptake, and water recovery are characterized and reported in this work. Overall finding demonstrated that tryptophan efficiently acted as a kinetic hydrate promotor (KHP), and increased tryptophan quantities further supported the hydrate formation for almost all the studied conditions. The formation kinetics also demonstrated that it shortens the hydrate induction time by 50.61% and increases the 144.5% initial formation rate of CO2 hydrates for 1 wt.% addition of tryptophan at 274 K temperature and 4.0 MPa pressure condition. The study also discovered that at similar experimental conditions, 1 wt.% tryptophan addition improved gas uptake by 124% and water recovery moles by 121%. Furthermore, the increased concentrations of tryptophan (0.5–2 wt.%) further enhance the formation kinetics of CO2 hydrates due to the hydrophobic nature of tryptophan. Findings also revealed a meaningful link between hydrate formation and operating pressure observed for the exact temperature settings. High pressures facilitate the hydrate formation by reduced induction times with relatively higher formation rates, highlighting the subcooling effect on hydrate formation conditions. Overall, it can be concluded that using tryptophan as a biodegradable kinetic promotor considerably enhances the hydrate-based desalination process, making it more sustainable and cost-effective.
Impacts of Biochar and Vermicompost Addition on Physicochemical Characteristics, Metal Availability, and Microbial Communities in Soil Contaminated with Potentially Toxic Elements
Authors: Huang Zhiyue , He Wenjuan
Published: January 2023

In the current work, the effects of biochar, vermicompost, as well as their combined application on ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) in soils contaminated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs) were investigated. In this regard, four treatments were performed; among them, treatment A served as a control without additive, treatment B with vermicompost (2%), treatment C with biochar (2%), and treatment D with biochar (2%) plus vermicompost (2%). In addition, the abundance and structure of the AOA and AOB amoA gene were measured using quantitative PCR and high-throughput sequencing. The relationships between the microbial community, physicochemical parameters, and CaCl2-extractable PTEs were analyzed using the Pearson correlation method. We found that adding biochar and vermicompost promoted the immobilization of PTEs and nitrogen biotransformation. The rational use of biochar and vermicompost is beneficial for the growth of bacterial and fungal communities in soils polluted by PTEs. AOA and AOB amoA genes were stimulated by biochar, vermicompost, and their combination, but their structure was hardly affected.
Interfacial Microstructure and Shear Strength Improvements of Babbitt–Steel Bimetal Composites Using Sn–Bi Interlayer via Liquid–Solid Casting
Authors: Fathy Naglaa
Published: January 2023

To enhance the performance of Babbitt–steel bimetallic composites, bismuth (Bi) was incorporated into the Tin (Sn)-interlayer. Babbitt–steel bimetallic composites were created using the liquid–solid compound casting method in this study. Sn–Bi interlayer alloys with varying levels of Bi (1, 2, 3, and 4 wt.%) were created. The Babbitt-steel bimetallic composite’s bonding strength and interfacial microstructure were examined in relation to Sn-Bi interlayer alloys. The structure of the interface layer at the Babbitt–steel interface’s edge and center are significantly altered when Bi is added to the Sn interlayer. The relatively higher cooling rate near the edge led to the formation of clear unsolved Sn/Sn–Bi interlayers. Otherwise, the Sn–Bi interlayers in the middle were completely dissolved. By increasing the amount of Bi in the Sn–Bi interlayer alloy, the interfacial hardness of Babbitt-steel bimetallic composites increases by increasing Bi content in Sn–Bi interlayer alloy. Babbitt-steel bimetal composites’ shear strength increased to 28.27 MPa by adding Bi to the Sn interlayer using 1 wt.% alloying, with a 10.3% increase when compared with the reference pure Sn interlayer. Future research that aims to improve the production of Babbitt-steel bimetallic composites with high-quality and long-lasting bi-metal bonding ought to take into consideration the ideal pouring temperature, the preheating of the mold, and the addition of a minor amount of Bi (Bi ≤ 1) to the Sn-interlayer.
Assessing the Future City Post COVID-19: Linking the SDGs, Health, Resilience, and Psychological Impact
Authors: Alnusairat Saba , Abu Qadourah Jenan , Khattab Rawan
Published: January 2023

This paper explores how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected progress toward urban sustainability. A methodological framework was developed as an integrated-assessment tool for future cities, triangulating indicators that are relevant to cities. The development of this framework was based on understanding the dimensions of sustainable cities and factors related to the urgent crises, and the related lifestyle and psychological factors. The study focuses on the SDGs and health and resilience requirements and links them with the behavioral changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper builds on the advantages of various methodological frameworks by integrating their respective approaches, to offer a more comprehensive solution. A series of measures and actions (scenarios) related to sustainable cities and pandemics are discussed. This approach involves developing relevant indicators by fitting the urban health and resilience goals to the social, economic, and environmental goals of sustainable cities, as well as considering the factors affecting people’s perception of cities during and after the pandemic. The paper provides insights into how future cities could be planned, designed, and governed to reduce the impact of health crises and to enable the assessment of cities in relation to the chosen dimensions (health, resilience, sustainability, human).
Study on the Mechanism of a Hanging Roof at a Difficult Caving End in a Fully-Mechanized Top Coal Caving Face
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Hao Cheng , Han Zijun , Liu Qinyu , Wang Haozhu , Liang Jialu , Zhang Dandan
Published: January 2023

During the mining process of fully-mechanized caving faces, the roof of the roadway behind the working face easily forms an arched-shape hanging roof structure with the working face pushed forward, which results in potential hazards such as gas accumulation and large-scale roof collapse. Based on the actual situation of a hanging roof at a difficult caving end in fully-mechanized top coal caving faces, through borehole exploration, surrounding rock displacement observation, bolt stress monitoring, theoretical formula calculation, and numerical simulation methods, the structure characteristics of the hanging roof at the end of the fully-mechanized caving face are studied. The ultimate failure depth and ultimate break distance of the hanging roof structure at the end of the working face are obtained, and its formation mechanism is analyzed. It is concluded that the hanging structure is formed by the following reasons: the lithology of sandy mudstone and fine sandstone above the top coal of the roadway is strong; the hanging roof structure is less affected by working-face mining; there is a result of insufficient rotary pressure of the upper mudstone while working together with the protective coal pillar and end support the caving step distance of the curved hanging roof structure is 10~13.55 m.
On the Enhanced New Qualitative Results of Nonlinear Integro-Differential Equations
Authors: Tunç Cemil , Tunç Osman , Yao Jen-Chih
Published: January 2023

In this article, a class of scalar nonlinear integro-differential equations of first order with fading memory is investigated. For the considered fading memory problem, we discuss the effects of the memory over all the values of the parameter in the kernel of the equations. Using the Lyapunov–Krasovski functional method, we give various sufficient conditions of stability, asymptotic stability, uniform stability of zero solution, convergence and boundedness, and square integrability of nonzero solutions in relation to the considered scalar nonlinear integro-differential equations for various cases. As the novel contributions of this article, the new scalar nonlinear integro-differential equation with the fading memory is firstly investigated in the literature, and seven theorems, which have novel sufficient qualitative conditions, are provided on the qualitative behaviors of solutions called boundedness, convergence, stability, integrability, asymptotic stability and uniform stability of solutions. The novel outcomes and originality of this article are that the considered integro-differential equations are new mathematical models, they include former mathematical models in relation to the mathematical models of this paper as well as the given main seven qualitative results are also new. The outcomes of this paper enhance some present results and provide new contributions to the relevant literature. The results of the article have complementary properties for the symmetry of integro-differential equations.
Real-Time Intrusion Detection and Prevention System for 5G and beyond Software-Defined Networks
Authors: Bocu Razvan , Iavich Maksim
Published: January 2023

The philosophy of the IoT world is becoming important for a projected, always-connected world. The 5G networks will significantly improve the value of 4G networks in the day-to-day world, making them fundamental to the next-generation IoT device networks. This article presents the current advances in the improvement of the standards, which simulate 5G networks. This article evaluates the experience that the authors gained when implementing Vodafone Romania 5G network services, illustrates the experience gained in context by analyzing relevant peer-to-peer work and used technologies, and outlines the relevant research areas and challenges that are likely to affect the design and implementation of large 5G data networks. This paper presents a machine learning-based real-time intrusion detection system with the corresponding intrusion prevention system. The convolutional neural network (CNN) is used to train the model. The system was evaluated in the context of the 5G data network. The smart intrusion detection system (IDS) takes the creation of software-defined networks into account. It uses models based on artificial intelligence. The system is capable to reveal not previously detected intrusions using software components based on machine learning, using the convolutional neural network. The intrusion prevention system (IPS) blocks the malicious traffic. This system was evaluated, and the results confirmed that it provides higher efficiencies compared to less overhead-like approaches, allowing for real-time deployment in 5G networks. The offered system can be used for symmetric and asymmetric communication scenarios.
Editorial Conclusion for the Special Issue “Measurements in Quantum Mechanics”
Authors: Urbanowski Krzysztof
Published: January 2023

This Special Issue is devoted to the broad range of topics related to the problem of quantum measurements, which is as old as the modern concept of quantum mechanics [...]
A Symmetry In-between the Shapes, Shells, and Clusters of Nuclei
Authors: Cseh József , Riczu Gábor , Darai Judit
Published: January 2023

The multiconfigurational dynamical symmetry (MUSY) connects the shell, collective, and cluster models of atomic nuclei for the case of multi-shell excitations. Therefore, it can give a unified description of various phenomena. The shape isomers are obtained from the investigation of the stability and consistency of the symmetry, and selection rules connect them to the possible cluster configurations and the related reaction channels. A simple, dynamically symmetric Hamiltonian turns out to be able to provide a unified description of the gross features of spectra of different regions of excitation energy and deformation. Some predictions of MUSY have been justified by experimental observations.
A VVC Video Steganography Based on Coding Units in Chroma Components with a Deep Learning Network
Authors: Li Minghui , Li Zhaohong , Zhang Zhenzhen
Published: January 2023

Versatile Video Coding (VVC) is the latest video coding standard, but currently, most steganographic algorithms are based on High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC). The concept of symmetry is often adopted in deep neural networks. With the rapid rise of new multimedia, video steganography shows great research potential. This paper proposes a VVC steganographic algorithm based on Coding Units (CUs). Considering the novel techniques in VVC, the proposed steganography only uses chroma CUs to embed secret information. Based on modifying the partition modes of chroma CUs, we propose four different embedding levels to satisfy the different needs of visual quality, capacity and video bitrate. In order to reduce the bitrate of stego-videos and improve the distortion caused by modifying them, we propose a novel convolutional neural network (CNN) as an additional in-loop filter in the VVC codec to achieve better restoration. Furthermore, the proposed steganography algorithm based on chroma components has an advantage in resisting most of the video steganalysis algorithms, since few VVC steganalysis algorithms have been proposed thus far and most HEVC steganalysis algorithms are based on the luminance component. Experimental results show that the proposed VVC steganography algorithm achieves excellent performance on visual quality, bitrate cost and capacity.
Nonlocal Pseudo-Parabolic Equation with Memory Term and Conical Singularity: Global Existence and Blowup
Authors: Yu Jiali , Zhang Jihong
Published: January 2023

Considered herein is the initial-boundary value problem for a semilinear parabolic equation with a memory term and non-local source wt−ΔBw−ΔBwt+∫0tg(t−τ)ΔBw(τ)dτ=|w|p−1w−1|B|∫B|w|p−1wdx1x1dx′ on a manifold with conical singularity, where the Fuchsian type Laplace operator ΔB is an asymmetry elliptic operator with conical degeneration on the boundary x1=0. Firstly, we discuss the symmetrical structure of invariant sets with the help of potential well theory. Then, the problem can be decomposed into two symmetric cases: if w0∈W and Π(w0)>0, the global existence for the weak solutions will be discussed by a series of energy estimates under some appropriate assumptions on the relaxation function, initial data and the symmetric structure of invariant sets. On the contrary, if w0∈V and Π(w0)<0, the nonexistence of global solutions, i.e., the solutions blow up in finite time, is obtained by using the convexity technique.
Controllability and Observability Analysis of a Fractional-Order Neutral Pantograph System
Authors: Ahmad Irshad , Ahmad Saeed , ur Rahman Ghaus , Ahmad Shabir , Weera Wajaree
Published: January 2023

In the recent past, a number of research articles have explored the stability, existence, and uniqueness of the solutions and controllability of dynamical systems with a fractional order (FO). Nevertheless, aside from the controllability and other dynamical aspects, very little attention has been given to the observability of FO dynamical systems. This paper formulates a novel type of FO delay system of the Pantograph type in the Caputo sense and explores its controllability and observability results. This research endeavor begins with the conversion of the proposed dynamical system into a fixed-point problem by utilizing Laplace transforms, the convolution of Laplace functions, and the Mittag–Leffler function (MLF). We then set out Gramian matrices for both the controllability and observability of the linear parts of our proposed dynamical system and prove that both the Gramian matrices are invertible, thus confirming the controllability and observability in a given domain. Considering the controllability and observability results of the linear part along with some other assumptions, we investigate the controllability and observability results related to the nonlinear system. The Banach contraction result, the fixed-point result of Schaefer, the MLF, and the Caputo FO derivative are used as the main tools for establishing these results. To establish the authenticity of the established results, we add two examples at the end of the manuscript.
Research on the Innovation-Driving Mechanism for the Synergistic Development of Two-Way FDI in China’s Manufacturing Industry: Based on the Perspective of the New Development Pattern of “Dual Circulation”
Authors: Xu Lei , Tang Qiuyu , Xu Liang , Yang Hanjie
Published: January 2023

The new pattern of “dual circulation” is a new development model for China to seek mutual promotion between international and domestic markets in the new era. In this context, this paper explores the synergistic relationship between two-way FDI and its impact mechanism on the improvement of China’s manufacturing innovation capability. By taking 27 segments of the Chinese manufacturing industry as data samples from 2003 to 2018, we use the Granger cause, orthogonalized impulse response function, and physical capacity coupling system to verify the two-way FDI synergistic development relationship in the Chinese manufacturing industry and measure its degree of synergy. In addition, we empirically explore the mediating role of industrial structure upgrading in the impact of two-way FDI synergistic development on innovation capability in the Chinese manufacturing industry, and further analyze the industrial heterogeneity of this mediating role among labor-intensive, capital-intensive, and technology-intensive manufacturing segments. The study finds that firstly, there are different degrees of synergistic development in the Chinese manufacturing segments, and this synergistic development significantly contributes to the innovation capability and industrial structure upgrading of the Chinese manufacturing industry. Secondly, industrial structure upgrading of the Chinese manufacturing industry plays an essential mediating effect in the innovation-driving process of the two-way FDI synergistic development, and the mediating effect shows significant industrial heterogeneity. More specifically, the mediating effects in labor-intensive and technology-intensive industries are significantly positive, and the mediating effect in technology-intensive industries is more prominent. However, the mediating effect in capital-intensive industries is significantly negative. The paper provides empirical evidence to clarify the innovation-driving mechanism of the two-way FDI synergistic development in China’s manufacturing industry from the perspective of the new development pattern of “dual circulation” and provides valuable references for research in related fields.
Development of GPCN Model to Assess Domestic and International Competition Patterns of Coastal Container Ports in China
Authors: Li Wanying , You Zaijin , Lou Kaiyuan , Wang Zhaowei
Published: January 2023

The importance of a port’s strategic position has long been recognized, during which process inter-port competition is becoming increasingly fierce. This paper aims to assess the domestic and international competition patterns of 43 coastal container ports in China. A global port competition network model (GPCN) is developed based on the global liner shipping network (GLSN) model and the multiple linkage analysis (MLA) method. In the GPCN model, three competition indicators (competition degree, competition intensity, and competitive pressure) are proposed to quantitatively describe the competitive patterns of Chinese container ports. This study has found that ports tend to compete with other ports that have similar competition degrees, and competition among large ports may be more intense. Additionally, a port’s traffic volume is correlated well with its competitiveness; the larger Chinese ports, such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo-Zhoushan, and Hong Kong, have put much more competitive pressure on their smaller competitors than they are subjected to, and Singapore and Busan ports are found as the main competitive threats to the development of Chinese coastal container ports. The methodology developed in this study can provide a good strategic decision-making and guidance tool to quantitatively assess the competition situations of other countries’ coastal container ports.
A New Species of Proctoporus (Reptilia, Gymnophthalmidae, Cercosaurinae) from the Puna of the Otishi National Park in Peru
Authors: Lehr Edgar , Cusi Juan C. , Fernandez Maura I. , Vera Ricardo J. , Catenazzi Alessandro
Published: January 2023

We describe a new species of Proctoporus from the scientifically unexplored southern sector of the Otishi National Park (Region Cusco) in Peru, on the basis of molecular and morphological characters. Seven type specimens were obtained from six localities between 3241–3269 m a.s.l. within a radius of ca. 1.5 km in a Puna valley. Nine adult specimens (four males, five females) from Chiquintirca (Region Ayacucho, ca. 85 km airline from the type locality) are considered referred specimens. Males of the new species have a snout–vent length of 41.3–53.9 mm (x¯ = 46.7, n = 6), females have a snout–vent length of 43.6–52.6 mm (x¯ = 48.1, n = 8). The new species has dorsal scales striated, four supraoculars, four anterior supralabials, loreal and prefrontal scales absent, two pairs of genials (rarely one or three), three rows of pregulars, and five to seven femoral pores in males (absent in females). Sexual dimorphism is evident in the ventral coloration: males have neck, chest, and belly dark gray to black, whereas females have neck, chest, and belly pale gray with a diffuse dark gray fleck in the center of each scale, and an orange iris with a fringed pupil in both sexes.
The Influence of Plant Extract on the Phase Equilibrium of Structure I Gas Hydrate in a Simulated Offshore Environment
Authors: Wachikwu-Elechi Virtue Urunwo , Ikiensikimama Sunday Sunday , Ajienka Joseph Atubokiki
Published: January 2023

Gas hydrate inhibitors, especially those used in offshore environments, are chemicals. These chemicals are synthetic in nature and pose both technical and environmental risks. This study emphasizes the influence of a Plant Extract (PE) on the phase behavior and equilibrium of structure I (SI) gas hydrate and its inhibition efficiency. The PE was screened using a mini flow loop. From the pressure-temperature phase diagram, the various weight percentages of the PE were able to disrupt the thermodynamic equilibrium conditions of the water and gas molecules to lower temperatures and increase pressures, which caused a shift in the equilibrium curve to an unstable hydrate formation zone. The pressure versus time plot as well as the inhibition efficiency plots for the PE and Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) were evaluated. Overall, the inhibition efficiency of the PE was higher than that of MEG for 1 wt% (60.53%) and 2 wt% (55.26%) but had the same efficiency at 3 wt% (73.68%). The PE at 1 wt% had the greatest inhibition effect and adjudged the optimum weight percent with a well-regulated phase equilibrium curve. This shows that PE is a better gas hydrate inhibitor than MEG, which is toxic to both human and aquatic life; therefore, it is recommended for field trials.
Potentially Toxic Elements in Water, Sediments and Fish from the Karstic River (Raša River, Croatia) Located in the Former Coal-Mining Area
Authors: Kljaković-Gašpić Zorana , Sekovanić Ankica , Orct Tatjana , Šebešćen Dora , Klasiček Elena , Zanella Davor
Published: January 2023

The assessment of the environmental quality of a sensitive karst aquatic system under the centuries-long anthropogenic influence of the coal mining industry is important for both improving the quality of water resources and protecting aquatic wildlife and human health. In this study, we investigated the anthropogenic impact on the aquatic environment of the upper and middle course of the Raša River through the analysis of a suite of metal(loid)s in three aquatic compartments (water, sediment, fish) using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Concentrations of inorganic constituents in water were low, while the chemical composition of stream sediments mainly reflected the geological background of the area, indicating the origin of metal(loid)s from predominantly natural sources. Although comparison with PEC-Q values indicated that existing sediment quality conditions could pose a threat to benthic organisms with regard to Cr and Ni, the constant vertical profiles of these elements suggested their natural origin from the weathering of flysch. Element levels in the muscle of targeted fish species were in accordance with the values typical for low-contaminated freshwater systems, while levels of Cd, Pb and Hg were mostly below the European regulatory limits for toxic elements in foods, indicating that the low concentrations of most contaminants in muscles of fish from the Raša River do not present a risk to humans or other consumers. The obtained data indicated a generally low contamination status of the western part of the Raša River basin with regard to the analyzed inorganic elements.
Diosmin Mitigates Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats: Insights on miR-21 and -155 Expression, Nrf2/HO-1 and p38-MAPK/NF-κB Pathways
Authors: Nadeem Rania I. , Aboutaleb Amany S. , Younis Nancy S. , Ahmed Hebatalla I.
Published: January 2023

Gentamicin (GNT) is the most frequently used aminoglycoside. However, its therapeutic efficacy is limited due to nephrotoxicity. Thus, the potential anticipatory effect of Diosmin (DIOS) against GNT-prompted kidney damage in rats together with the putative nephroprotective pathways were scrutinized. Four groups of rats were used: (1) control; (2) GNT only; (3) GNT plus DIOS; and (4) DIOS only. Nephrotoxicity was elucidated, and the microRNA-21 (miR-21) and microRNA-155 (miR-155) expression and Nrf2/HO-1 and p38-MAPK/NF-κB pathways were assessed. GNT provoked an upsurge in the relative kidney weight and serum level of urea, creatinine, and KIM-1. The MDA level was markedly boosted, with a decline in the level of TAC, SOD, HO-1, and Nrf2 expression in the renal tissue. Additionally, GNT exhibited a notable amplification in TNF-α, IL-1β, NF-κB p65, and p38-MAPK kidney levels. Moreover, caspase-3 and BAX expression were elevated, whereas the Bcl-2 level was reduced. Furthermore, GNT resulted in the down-regulation of miR-21 expression along with an up-regulation of the miR-155 expression. Histological examination revealed inflammation, degradation, and necrosis. GNT-provoked pathological abnormalities were reversed by DIOS treatment, which restored normal kidney architecture. Hence, regulating miR-21 and -155 expression and modulating Nrf2/HO-1 and p38-MAPK/NF-κB pathways could take a vital part in mediating the reno-protective effect of DIOS.
Exploring the Pivotal Components Influencing the Side Effects Induced by an Analgesic-Antitumor Peptide from Scorpion Venom on Human Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels 1.4 and 1.5 through Computational Simulation
Authors: Zhao Fan , Fang Liangyi , Wang Qi , Ye Qi , He Yanan , Xu Weizhuo , Song Yongbo
Published: January 2023

Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs, or Nav) are important determinants of action potential generation and propagation. Efforts are underway to develop medicines targeting different channel subtypes for the treatment of related channelopathies. However, a high degree of conservation across its nine subtypes could lead to the off-target adverse effects on skeletal and cardiac muscles due to acting on primary skeletal muscle sodium channel Nav1.4 and cardiac muscle sodium channel Nav1.5, respectively. For a long evolutionary process, some peptide toxins from venoms have been found to be highly potent yet selective on ion channel subtypes and, therefore, hold the promising potential to be developed into therapeutic agents. In this research, all-atom molecular dynamic methods were used to elucidate the selective mechanisms of an analgesic-antitumor β-scorpion toxin (AGAP) with human Nav1.4 and Nav1.5 in order to unravel the primary reason for the production of its adverse reactions on the skeletal and cardiac muscles. Our results suggest that the rational distribution of residues with ring structures near position 38 and positive residues in the C-terminal on AGAP are critical factors to ensure its analgesic efficacy. Moreover, the substitution for residues with benzene is beneficial to reduce its side effects.
Addressing Cosmological Tensions by Non-Local Gravity
Authors: Bouché Filippo , Capozziello Salvatore , Salzano Vincenzo
Published: January 2023

Alternative cosmological models have been under deep scrutiny in recent years, aiming to address the main shortcomings of the ΛCDM model. Moreover, as the accuracy of cosmological surveys improved, new tensions have risen between the model-dependent analysis of the Cosmic Microwave Background and lower redshift probes. Within this framework, we review two quantum-inspired non-locally extended theories of gravity, whose main cosmological feature is a geometrically driven accelerated expansion. The models are especially investigated in light of the Hubble and growth tension, and promising features emerge for the Deser–Woodard one. On the one hand, the cosmological analysis of the phenomenological formulation of the model shows a lowered growth of structures but an equivalent background with respect to ΛCDM. On the other hand, the study of the lensing features at the galaxy cluster scale of a new formulation of non-local cosmology, based on Noether symmetries, makes room for the possibility of alleviating both the H0 and σ8 tension. However, the urgent need for a screening mechanism arises for this non-local theory of gravity.
Gauge-Invariant Perturbations at a Quantum Gravity Bounce
Authors: Gielen Steffen , Mickel Lisa
Published: January 2023

We study the dynamics of gauge-invariant scalar perturbations in cosmological scenarios with a modified Friedmann equation, such as quantum gravity bouncing cosmologies. We work within a separate universe approximation which captures wavelengths larger than the cosmological horizon; this approximation has been successfully applied to loop quantum cosmology and group field theory. We consider two variables commonly used to characterise scalar perturbations: the curvature perturbation on uniform-density hypersurfaces ζ and the comoving curvature perturbation R. For standard cosmological models in general relativity as well as in loop quantum cosmology, these quantities are conserved and equal on super-horizon scales for adiabatic perturbations. Here we show that while these statements can be extended to a more general form of modified Friedmann equations similar to that of loop quantum cosmology, in other cases, such as the simplest group field theory bounce scenario, ζ is conserved across the bounce whereas R is not. We relate our results to approaches based on a second-order equation for a single perturbation variable, such as the Mukhanov–Sasaki equation.
Viral Capsid Change upon Encapsulation of Double-Stranded DNA into an Infectious Hypodermal and Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus-like Particle
Authors: Weerachatyanukul Wattana , Kiatmetha Pauline , Raksat Ponlawoot , Boonkua Supawich , Thongsum Orawan , Jariyapong Pitchanee , Chotwiwatthanakun Charoonroj , Ounjai Puey , Metlagel Zoltan
Published: January 2023

In this study, we aimed to encapsulate the sizable double-stranded DNA (dsDNA, 3.9 kbp) into a small-sized infectious hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis virus-like particle (IHHNV-VLP; T = 1) and compared the changes in capsid structure between dsDNA-filled VLP and empty VLP. Based on our encapsulation protocol, IHHNV-VLP was able to load dsDNA at an efficiency of 30–40% (w/w) into its cavity. Structural analysis revealed two subclasses of IHHNV-VLP, so-called empty and dsDNA-filled VLPs. The three-dimensional (3D) structure of the empty VLP produced in E. coli was similar to that of the empty IHHNV-VLP produced in Sf9 insect cells. The size of the dsDNA-filled VLP was slightly bigger (50 Å) than its empty VLP counterpart; however, the capsid structure was drastically altered. The capsid was about 1.5-fold thicker due to the thickening of the capsid interior, presumably from DNA–capsid interaction evident from capsid protrusions or nodules on the interior surface. In addition, the morphological changes of the capsid exterior were particularly observed in the vicinity of the five-fold axes, where the counter-clockwise twisting of the “tripod” structure at the vertex of the five-fold channel was evident, resulting in a widening of the channel’s opening. Whether these capsid changes are similar to virion capsid maturation in the host cells remains to be investigated. Nevertheless, the ability of IHHNV-VLP to encapsulate the sizable dsDNA has opened up the opportunity to package a dsDNA vector that can insert exogenous genes and target susceptible shrimp cells in order to halt viral infection.