bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile Application Software Requirements Specification from Consumption Values
Authors: Derawi Mohammad , Dalveren Gonca Gokce Menekse , Cagiltay Nergiz Ercil
Published: March 2023

In today’s society, mobile applications are becoming more popular and providing several advantages. However, users will resist using a product regardless of how well-tested or solid it is if the wrong requirements are implemented. Understanding the factors that influence the purchase of mobile applications can provide useful information for mobile application design and development. Hence, the purpose of this research is to better understand the impact of consumption values on customers in order to identify the software requirements for a mobile application. This study analyzes the possible behavioral changes of similar groups of university students in a five-year period. For this purpose, a questionnaire is administered to engineering faculty students in 2017 (46 females and 66 males) and 2021 (45 females and 90 males) to better understand customer behavioral changes. The findings highlight the significance of conditional value in customer behavior when purchasing mobile applications. Even though the other consumption values were found to have a negligible effect, there is some evidence indicating that the impact of consumption values on different target customer groups may vary considering their gender and familiarity with apps. Further research needs to be conducted to better understand the possible impact of age, cultural differences, education levels, and special considerations such as visually impaired people. Therefore, this study encourages mobile application designers and developers to raise awareness for the effect of consumption values such as conditional value on their customers’ mobile application purchasing behaviors. The possible impact of the consumption values needs to be deeply understood, specifically for the target customer groups, and it should be considered in the software requirements specification (SRS), which is one of the important principles that allow software under consideration for development to function. As a result, a better understanding of consumption values will help developers design and develop better applications by specifying software requirements and marketing strategies.
Nonparametric Generation of Synthetic Data Using Copulas
Authors: Restrepo Juan P. , Rivera Juan Carlos , Laniado Henry , Osorio Pablo , Becerra Omar A.
Published: March 2023

This article presents a novel nonparametric approach to generate synthetic data using copulas, which are functions that explain the dependency structure of the real data. The proposed method addresses several challenges faced by existing synthetic data generation techniques, such as the preservation of complex multivariate structures presented in real data. By using all the information from real data and verifying that the generated synthetic data follows the same behavior as the real data under homogeneity tests, our method is a significant improvement over existing techniques. Our method is easy to implement and interpret, making it a valuable tool for solving class imbalance problems in machine learning models, improving the generalization capabilities of deep learning models, and anonymizing information in finance and healthcare domains, among other applications.
Addressing ZSM Security Issues with Blockchain Technology
Authors: Xevgenis Michael , Kogias Dimitrios G. , Karkazis Panagiotis A. , Leligou Helen C.
Published: March 2023

Undoubtedly, we are witnessing a new era of computer networks that aspire to support modern demanding applications by providing the highest Quality of Experience (QoE) to the end user. Next Generations Networks (NGNs) ensure that characteristics such as ultra-low latency, high availability and wide service coverage can be met across the network regardless of the network infrastructure ownership. To accomplish that, beyond the necessary improvements in the radio propagation field, changes have been made in the core network functions which are now characterized as programmable, and software defined. Software Defined Networks (SDNs) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) are the keystones of the NGNs flexibility. The high expectations of NGNs’ performance and the continuous changes in the network conditions lead to the development of new network management frameworks that add elasticity and dynamicity and minimize human intervention. ETSI (the European Standards Organization) presents the Zero-touch Service Management (ZSM) framework that uses hyped technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to achieve full end-to-end automation of the network services’ management across one or many different domains. Focusing on multi-domain network service management, there are several security issues identified by the standardization team which mostly derive from the lack of trust among network providers. In the present research, we explore the suitability of blockchain technology adoption for facing these security issues. Blockchain technology inherently addresses security in trustless environments such as the infrastructures defined by the ZSM team. Our contribution is three-fold: (a) we define the architecture of a multi-domain network infrastructure that adopts the ZSM approach and integrates blockchain functionality, (b) we explore the adoption of different blockchain and distributed ledger technologies (DLT) approaches to address ZSM security needs and (c) we provide guidelines to prospective solution designers/implementers on the detailed requirements that this solution has to meet to maximize the offered value.
Transcriptomic and Chromatin Landscape Analysis Reveals That Involvement of Pituitary Level Transcription Factors Modulate Incubation Behaviors of Magang Geese
Authors: Chang Jianye , Fan Di , Liu Jiaxin , Xu Yanglong , Huang Xuefei , Tian Yunbo , Xu Jin , Huang Yunmao , Ruan Jue , Shen Xu
Published: March 2023

The incubation behavior of geese seriously affects their egg production performance. Studies on incubation behavior have identified functional genes, but the regulatory architecture relationship between functional genes and chromatin accessibility remains poorly understood. Here, we present an integrated analysis of open chromatin profiles and transcriptome to identify the cis-regulatory element and their potential transcription factors involved in regulating incubation behavior in goose pituitary. Assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (ATAC-seq) revealed that open chromatin regions increased in the pituitary during the transition from incubation behavior to laying. We identified 920 significant differential accessible regions (DARs) in the pituitary. Compared to the laying stage, most DARs had higher chromatin accessibility in the brooding stage. Motif analysis of open DARs showed that the most significant transcription factor (TF) occupied sites predominantly enriched in motifs binding to the RFX family (RFX5, RFX2, and RFX1). While the majority of TF motifs enriched under sites of the nuclear receptor (NR) family (ARE, GRE, and PGR) in closed DARs at the incubation behavior stage. Footprint analysis indicated that the transcription factor RFX family exhibited higher binding on chromatin at the brooding stage. To further elucidate the effect of changes in chromatin accessibility on gene expression levels, a comparison of the transcriptome revealed 279 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The transcriptome changes were associated with processes of steroid biosynthesis. By integrating ATAC-seq and RNA-seq, few DARs directly affect incubation behavior by regulating the transcription levels of genes. Five DAR-related DEGs were found to be closely related to maintaining the incubation behavior in geese. Footprinting analysis revealed a set of transcription factors (RFX1, RFX2, RFX3, RFX5, BHLHA15, SIX1, and DUX) which displayed the highest activity at the brooding stage. SREBF2 was predicted to be the unique differentially expressed transcription factor whose mRNA level was down-regulated and enriched in hyper-accessible regions of PRL in the broody stage. In the present study, we comprehensively profiled the transcriptome and chromatin accessibility in the pituitary related to incubation behavior. Our findings provided insight into the identification and analysis of regulatory elements in goose incubation behavior. The epigenetic alterations profiled here can help decipher the epigenetic mechanisms that contribute to the regulation of incubation behavior in birds.
Cytotaxonomy and Molecular Analyses of Mycteria americana (Ciconiidae: Ciconiiformes): Insights on Stork Phylogeny
Authors: de Sousa Rodrigo Petry Corrêa , Campos Paula Sabrina Bronze , dos Santos Michelly da Silva , O’Brien Patricia Caroline , Ferguson-Smith Malcolm Andrew , de Oliveira Edivaldo Herculano Corrêa
Published: March 2023

Although molecular information for the wood stork (Mycteria americana) has been well described, data concerning their karyotypical organization and phylogenetic relationships with other storks are still scarce. Thus, we aimed to analyze the chromosomal organization and diversification of M. americana, and provide evolutionary insights based on phylogenetic data of Ciconiidae. For this, we applied both classical and molecular cytogenetic techniques to define the pattern of distribution of heterochromatic blocks and their chromosomal homology with Gallus gallus (GGA). Maximum likelihood analyses and Bayesian inferences (680 bp COI and 1007 bp Cytb genes) were used to determine their phylogenetic relationship with other storks. The results confirmed 2n = 72, and the heterochromatin distribution pattern was restricted to centromeric regions of the chromosomes. FISH experiments identified fusion and fission events involving chromosomes homologous to GGA macrochromosome pairs, some of which were previously found in other species of Ciconiidae, possibly corresponding to synapomorphies for the group. Phylogenetic analyses resulted in a tree that recovered only Ciconinii as a monophyletic group, while Mycteriini and Leptoptlini tribes were configured as paraphyletic clades. In addition, the association between phylogenetic and cytogenetic data corroborates the hypothesis of a reduction in the diploid number throughout the evolution of Ciconiidae.
Past-Year Blunt Smoking among Youth: Differences by LGBT and Non-LGBT Identity
Authors: Yockey Robert Andrew , Barnett Tracey E.
Published: March 2023

Blunt use (co-use of tobacco and marijuana) is a growing phenomenon among youth and disproportionately affects minority populations. LGBT+ populations are significantly more likely to use marijuana and tobacco, but this relationship has yet to be examined among LGBT+ adolescents. This analysis aimed to investigate past-year blunt use among a national sample of youth and delineate the differences between non-LGBT and LGBT+ youth. We used Wave 2 of the Population and Tobacco Health (PATH) study. We analyzed data from 7518 youth, comparing past-year blunt use between LGBT+ and non-LGBT youth, controlling for biological sex, race, and age using weighted logistic regression models. Greater than 1 in 10 youth (10.6%) reported using blunts in the past year. More than one in five (21.6%) LGBT+ youth reported using blunts in the past year. There were no significant differences between boys and girls. Older youth (17 years old) were more likely to use blunts in the past year (aPR: 3.04, 95% CI 2.48, 3.79) than younger youth. Compared with non-LGBT youth, LGBT+ youth were 2.17 times (95% CI 1.86, 2.54) more likely to report using blunts in the past year. Blunt use and its respective impact on health outcomes among developing youth are of concern to public health. These findings demonstrate that certain subgroups of youth are more at risk for use and emphasize the need for tailored interventions to mitigate initiation and current use, given that one of the goals of the Healthy People 2030 initiative is to “Improve the health, safety, and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals”.
Activity of Hydrolases and Their Inhibitors in Potato Plants Treated with Bacillus subtilis, Salicylic, and Jasmonic Acids and Affected by the Combined Effect of the Late Blight and the Lack of Moisture
Authors: Tsvetkov Vyacheslav , Yarullina Liubov , Sorokan Antonina , Khabibullina Vilena , Mardanshin Ildar
Published: March 2023

The effect of Bacillus subtilis in combination with salicylic (SA) and jasmonic (JA) acids on the activity of amylases, cellulases, proteases, and their inhibitors in potato leaves in connection with the development of resistance to Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary in conditions of moisture deficiency have been investigated. Plants grown from microtubers were treated with Bacillus subtilis suspension (108 cells/mL) and with a mixture of bacteria with SA (10−6 M), JA (10−7 M), and SA + JA and were then infected with P. infestans (107 spores/mL) and cultivated under drought. Treatment with B. subtilis bacteria, especially in combination with signaling molecules, contributed to a decrease in the degree of pathogen infestation on plants grown with a lack of moisture. Both salicylate and jasmonate signaling pathways play an important role in the regulation of hydrolase activity and the stimulation of plant resistance. The revealed differences in the degree of hydrolase inhibitors activation under the influence of B. subtilis bacteria and signal molecules suggest different paths to the formation of resistance to P. infestans in potato under drought conditions.
It Is Always the Same—A Complication Classification following Angular Stable Plating of Proximal Humeral Fractures
Authors: Siebenbürger Georg , Neudeck Rouven , Daferner Mark Philipp , Fleischhacker Evi , Böcker Wolfgang , Ockert Ben , Helfen Tobias
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The aim of this study was to create a novel complication classification for osteosynthesis-related complications following angular stable plating of the proximal humerus subsuming the influence of these complications on clinical outcome in relation to fracture morphology and consequent revision strategies. A total of 1047 proximal humerus fractures with overall 193 osteosynthesis-associated complications (24.5%) were included. The following complication types could be clarified: complication Type 1 is defined by mild varus (<20°) or valgus displacement of the humeral head without resulting in a screw cutout through the humeral head cortex. Type 2a is defined by varus displacement (<20°) of the humeral head associated with screw cutout through the humeral head cortex. Type 2b complication is limited to displacement of the greater tuberosity, lesser tuberosity, or both tuberosities. Complication Type 2c is defined by severe varus dislocation (>20°) of the humeral head with screw cutout at the humeral head cortex. Complication Type 3 describes a displacement of the angular stable plate in the humeral shaft region with associated shaft-sided screw cutout, while the position of the humeral head remains static. Complication Type 4 is characterized by the occurrence of AVN with or without glenoidal affection (4a/b). Clinical outcome according to the constant score was mainly affected by type 2–4, leading to a deteriorated result. Depending on the type of complication, specific revision strategies can be considered. Additionally, more complex fracture patterns fostered the incidence of complications.
Simulator Fidelity Does Not Affect Training for Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Saito Shin , Endo Kazuhiro , Sakuma Yasunaru , Sata Naohiro , Lefor Alan Kawarai
Published: March 2023

This study was undertaken to compare performance using a surgical robot after training with one of three simulators of varying fidelity. Methods: Eight novice operators and eight expert surgeons were randomly assigned to one of three simulators. Each participant performed two exercises using a simulator and then using a surgical robot. The primary outcome of this study is performance assessed by time and GEARS score. Results: Participants were randomly assigned to one of three simulators. Time to perform the suturing exercise (novices vs. experts) was significantly different for all 3 simulators. Using the da Vinci robot, peg transfer showed no significant difference between novices and experts and all participants combined (mean time novice 2.00, expert 2.21, p = 0.920). The suture exercise had significant differences in each group and all participants combined (novice 3.54, expert 1.90, p = 0.001). ANOVA showed p-Values for suturing (novice 0.523, expert 0.123) and peg transfer (novice 0.742, expert 0.131) are not significantly different. GEARS scores were different (p < 0.05) for novices and experts. Conclusion: Training with simulators of varying fidelity result in similar performance using the da Vinci robot. A dry box simulator may be as effective as a virtual reality simulator for training. Further studies are needed to validate these results.
The Midwest Sarcoma Trials Partnership: Bridging Academic and Community Networks in a Collaborative Approach to Sarcoma
Authors: Heater Natalie K. , Okuno Scott , Robinson Steven , Attia Steven , Seetharam Mahesh , Siontis Brittany L. , Yoon Janet , Chawla Sant , Milhem Mohammed M. , Monga Varun , Skubitz Keith , Charlson John , Hirbe Angela C. , Weiss Mia C. , Van Tine Brian , Agulnik Mark
Published: March 2023

The treatment of sarcoma necessitates a collaborative approach, given its rarity and complex management. At a single institution, multidisciplinary teams of specialists determine and execute treatment plans involving surgical, radiation, and medical management. Treatment guidelines for systemic therapies in advanced or nonresectable soft tissue sarcoma have advanced in recent years as new immunotherapies and targeted therapies become available. Collaboration between institutions is necessary to facilitate accrual to clinical trials. Here, we describe the success of the Midwest Sarcoma Trials Partnership (MWSTP) in creating a network encompassing large academic centers and local community sites. We propose a new model utilizing online platforms to expand the reach of clinical expertise for the treatment of advanced soft tissue sarcoma.
Phase II Trial of LINAC-Based STereotactic Arrhythmia Radioablation (STAR) for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation in Elderly: Planning and Dosimetric Point of View
Authors: Bonaparte Ilaria , Gregucci Fabiana , Di Monaco Antonio , Troisi Federica , Surgo Alessia , Ludovico Elena , Carbonara Roberta , Paulicelli Eleonora , Sanfrancesco Giuseppe , De Pascali Christian , Vitulano Nicola , Quadrini Federico , Ciliberti Maria Paola , Romanazzi Imma , Di Guglielmo Fiorella Cristina , Cusumano Davide , Calbi Roberto , Grimaldi Massimo , Fiorentino Alba
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Approaching treatment for elderly patients with atrial fibrillation is difficult. A prospective phase II trial evaluating LINAC-based stereotactic arrhythmia radioablation (STAR) safety in this population started in 2021. Dosimetric and planning data were reported. Materials and Methods: A vac-lock bag was used for immobilization in the supine position and a computed tomography (CT, 1 mm) was performed. The clinical target volume (CTV) was defined as the area around the pulmonary veins. An internal target volume (ITV) was added to the CTV to compensate heart and respiratory movement. The planning target volume (PTV) was defined by adding 0–3 mm to the ITV. STAR was performed during free-breathing with a PTV prescription total dose (Dp) of 25 Gy/1 fraction. Flattening filter-free volumetric-modulated arc therapy plans were generated, optimized, and delivered by TrueBeamTM. Image-guided radiotherapy with cone-beam CT and surface-guided radiotherapy with Align-RT (Vision RT) were employed. Results: From May 2021 to March 2022, 10 elderly patients were treated. Mean CTVs, ITVs, and PTVs were 23.6 cc, 44.32 cc, and 62.9 cc, respectively; the mean prescription isodose level and D2% were 76.5% and 31.2 Gy, respectively. The average heart and left anterior descending artery (LAD) Dmean were 3.9 and 6.3 Gy, respectively; the mean Dmax for LAD, spinal cord, left and right bronchus, and esophagus were 11.2, 7.5, 14.3, 12.4, and 13.6 Gy, respectively. The overall treatment time (OTT) was 3 min. Conclusions: The data showed an optimal target coverage, sparing surrounding tissue, in 3 min of OTT. LINAC-based STAR for AF could represent a valid non-invasive alternative for elderly patients who were excluded from catheter ablation.
Straw Mulch Effect on Soil and Water Loss in Different Growth Phases of Maize Sown on Stagnosols in Croatia
Authors: Bogunović Igor , Hrelja Iva , Kisić Ivica , Dugan Ivan , Krevh Vedran , Defterdarović Jasmina , Filipović Vilim , Filipović Lana , Pereira Paulo
Published: March 2023

Soil and water loss due to traditional intensive types of agricultural management is widespread and unsustainable in Croatian croplands. In order to mitigate the accelerated land degradation, we studied different cropland soil management strategies to obtain feasible and sustainable agro-technical practices. A rainfall simulation experiment was conducted at 58 mm h–1 over 30 min on 10 paired plots (0.785 m2), bare and straw covered (2 t ha−1). The experiment was carried out in maize cultivation (Blagorodovac, Croatia) established on Stagnosols on slopes. Measurements were conducted during April (bare soil, after seeding), May (five-leaves stage), and June (intensive vegetative growth) making 60 rainfall simulations in total. Straw reduced soil and water losses significantly. The highest water, sediment loss, and sediment concentrations were identified in tillage plots during May. Straw addition resulted in delayed ponding (for 7%, 63%, and 50% during April, May and June, respectively) and runoff generation (for 37%, 32%, and 18% during April, May and June, respectively). Compared with the straw-mulched plot, tillage and bare soil increased water loss by 349%. Maize development reduced the difference between bare and straw-mulched plots. During May and June, bare plots increase water loss by 92% and 95%, respectively. The straw mulch reduced raindrop kinetic energy and sediment detachment from 9, 6, and 5 magnitude orders in April, May, and June, respectively. Overall, the straw mulch was revealed to be a highly efficient nature-based solution for soil conservation and maize cultivation protection.
Cross-Cultural Comparison of Urban Green Space through Crowdsourced Big Data: A Natural Language Processing and Image Recognition Approach
Authors: Liu Shuhao , Su Chang , Zhang Junhua , Takeda Shiro , Liu Jiarui , Yang Ruochen
Published: March 2023

Understanding the relationship between environmental features and perceptions of urban green spaces (UGS) is crucial for UGS design and management. However, quantifying park perceptions on a large spatial and temporal scale is challenging, and it remains unclear which environmental features lead to different perceptions in cross-cultural comparisons. This study addressed this issue by collecting 11,782 valid social media comments and photos covering 36 UGSs from 2020 to 2022 using a Python 3.6-based crawler. Natural language processing and image recognition methods from Google were then utilized to quantify UGS perceptions. This study obtained 32 high-frequency feature words through sentiment analysis and quantified 17 environmental feature factors that emerged using object and scene recognition techniques for photos. The results show that users generally perceive Japanese UGSs as more positive than Chinese UGSs. Chinese UGS users prioritize plant green design and UGS user density, whereas Japanese UGS focuses on integrating specific cultural elements. Therefore, when designing and managing urban greenspace systems, local environmental and cultural characteristics must be considered to meet the needs of residents and visitors. This study offers a replicable and systematic approach for researchers investigating the utilization of UGS on a global scale.
The Spreading of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Terrestrial Ecosystems and the Formation of Soil Resistome
Authors: Symochko Lyudmyla , Demyanyuk Olena , Symochko Vitaliy , Grulova Daniela , Fejer Jozef , Mariychuk Ruslan
Published: March 2023

Terrestrial ecosystems play a crucial role in the formation of soil resistome and the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Comprehensive studies of soil microbial communities, their structure, integrity, and level of antibiotic resistance (AR) in various terrestrial ecosystems were conducted. In total, 389 strains of dominant bacteria were isolated from the studied ecosystems, 57 of which were resistant to antibiotics, with levels of antibiotic resistance exceeding 70%. The soil microbiome of primeval forests was characterized by a low content of bacteria resistant to antibiotics; only two species, Bacillus cereus and Pantoea agglomerans, showed a high resistance to antibiotics. In the soil of agroecosystems of medicinal plants, among 106 strains of bacteria, a high level of resistance to antibiotics was found in 13 species. It was established that the number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is highest in the soil of agroecosystems contaminated by enrofloxacin. Among 190 tested bacterial strains, 42 (22%) were characterized by a high level of antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the soil ecosystem is a key link in the formation and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which is a potential danger to humans. To reduce the risk of AR for humans, it is necessary to take appropriate measures to manage the soil microbiome and avoid soil contamination with antibiotics.
Anatomical and Functional Outcomes after Endoresection and Adjuvant Ruthenium Brachytherapy for Uveal Melanoma: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Mazzini Cinzia , Vicini Giulio , Di Leo Laura , Massi Daniela , Rizzo Stanislao , Giansanti Fabrizio
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of endoresection and adjuvant ruthenium (Ru)-106 brachytherapy for uveal melanoma (UM). Methods: Retrospective case series of 15 UM patients (15 eyes) treated at our center (Careggi University Hospital, Florence). Results: Six patients (40%) were male and nine were female (60%). The mean age of patients at the time of treatment was 61.6 years (±18.47). The mean BCVA at baseline was 20/76. In all cases UM originated from the choroid. The mean tumor thickness at baseline was 7.20 mm (±2.01), and the mean largest basal diameter was 11.24 mm (±2.20). A concurrent retinal detachment was diagnosed in 11 patients (73.3%). Two patients (13.3%) showed vitreous seeding at baseline. Eleven patients (73.3%) were treated with primary endoresection, while four patients (26.7%) were treated with a “salvage endoresection” after primary treatment failure (previous radiation treatment). The mean follow-up time was 29.9 months (±10.6). Thirteen out of fifteen patients were alive and showed no evidence of local recurrence or distance metastasis at the last follow-up visit. The treatment achieved local control of the disease in 14 out of 15 cases (93.3%). In one case, the patient underwent enucleation for disease recurrence. The overall survival rate at the end of the follow-up was 93.3%. The mean BCVA at last follow-up visit was 20/70. Treatment was well tolerated, without significant complications. Conclusions: Endoresection and adjuvant Ru-106 brachytherapy is a valuable conservative option for selected UM patients and can be used both as a primary treatment and as a salvage therapy. It can control melanoma and avoid enucleation, reduce radiation-related complications, and provide tumor tissue for chromosomal analysis and prognostic testing.
Construction of 2-2 Type Cement-Based Piezoelectric Composites’ Mechanic–Electric Relationship Based on Strain Rate Dependence
Authors: Dong Haiwei , Li Zhe , Zhu Ziye , Li Yi , Cheng Wenjie , Chen Jiangying
Published: March 2023

It has been found that the mechanic–electric response of cement-based piezoelectric composites under impact loading is nonlinear. Herein, we prepared a 2-2 cement-based piezoelectric composite material using cutting, pouring, and re-cutting. Then, we obtained the stress–strain and stress–electric displacement curves for this piezoelectric composite under impact loading using a modified split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) experimental apparatus and an additional electrical output measurement system. Based on the micromechanics of the composite materials, we assumed that damage occurred only in the cement paste. The mechanical response relationship of the piezoelectric composite was calculated as the product of the viscoelastic constitutive relationship of the cement paste and a constant, where the constant was determined based on the reinforcement properties of the mechanical response of the piezoelectric composite. Using a modified nonlinear viscoelastic Zhu–Wang–Tang (ZWT) model, we characterized the stress–strain curves of the piezoelectric composite with different strain rates. The dynamic sensitivity and stress threshold of the linear response of the samples were calibrated and fitted. Thus, a mechanic–electric response equation was established for the 2-2 type cement-based piezoelectric composite considering the strain rate effects.
Modification of Anodic Titanium Oxide Bandgap Energy by Incorporation of Tungsten, Molybdenum, and Manganese In Situ during Anodization
Authors: Michalska-Domańska Marta , Prabucka Katarzyna , Czerwiński Mateusz
Published: March 2023

In this research, we attempted to modify the bandgap of anodic titanium oxide by in situ incorporation of selected elements into the anodic titanium oxide during the titanium anodization process. The main aim of this research was to obtain photoactivity of anodic titanium oxide over a broader sunlight wavelength. The incorporation of the selected elements into the anodic titanium oxide was proved. It was shown that the bandgap values of anodic titanium oxides made at 60 V are in the visible region of sunlight. The smallest bandgap value was obtained for anodic titanium oxide modified by manganese, at 2.55 eV, which corresponds to a wavelength of 486.89 nm and blue color. Moreover, it was found that the pH of the electrolyte significantly affects the thickness of the anodic titanium oxide layer. The production of barrier oxides during the anodizing process with properties similar to coatings made by nitriding processes is reported for the first time.
Experimental Study on Bond Performance of NC-UHPC Interfaces with Different Roughness and Substrate Strength
Authors: Zhang Boshan , Yu Jiangjiang , Chen Weizhen , Liu Hang , Li Heng , Guo Hong
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates the bond failure performance between precast normal concrete (NC) and cast-in situ ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), emphasizing the influence of interfacial roughness. The interfacial bonding behavior under tension and under shear was investigated based on 72 groups of pull-off tests and 36 groups of bi-shear tests, considering six different interface treatment methods and two different NC strength levels. The results demonstrate that certain interfacial roughness is essential to gain a reliable bond connection between NC and UHPC. Its enhancement on the tensile bond performance could be described by the positive linear relationship between the mean roughness and the pull-off strength. However, further research is required to determine the characterization method of its influence on the shear bond performance. The higher strength of the base concrete is beneficial to the bond performance. Though this effect is evident in the pull-off tests under tension, the influence on the shear interfacial performance could be offset by that of the interface morphology in the case with high interfacial roughness.
Effects of Fiber Shape on Mechanical Properties of Fiber Assemblies
Authors: Xu Dandan , Ma Huibin , Guo Yu
Published: March 2023

The effects of fiber shape on the mechanical responses of fiber assemblies under compression, tension, and shear deformations are numerically investigated using the discrete element method (DEM). Simulations of the compression of ring-shaped fibers are consistent with experimental results, verifying the discrete element method code. In the compressive tests of S-shaped fibers, pressure exhibits a nonmonotonic dependence on fiber curvature; while in the tensile tests, yield tensile stress generally decreases with increasing fiber curvature. In the shear tests, yield shear stress decreases with increasing fiber curvature for the S-shaped fibers, and the smallest yield shear stresses and the smallest coordination numbers are obtained for U-shaped and Z-shaped fibers. It is interesting to observe that for the assemblies of various fiber shapes, yield shear stress increases with increasing maximum Feret diameter of the fibers, which characterizes the largest dimension of a fiber between two parallel tangential lines. These novel observations of the effects of fiber shape provide some guidelines for material designs with the fibers.
Effect of Temperatures and Graphene on the Mechanical Properties of the Aluminum Matrix: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Huang Jingtao , Li Mingwei , Chen Jiaying , Cheng Yuan , Lai Zhonghong , Hu Jin , Zhou Fei , Qu Nan , Liu Yong , Zhu Jingchuan
Published: March 2023

Graphene has become an ideal reinforcement for reinforced metal matrix composites due to its excellent mechanical properties. However, the theory of graphene reinforcement in graphene/aluminum matrix composites is not yet well developed. In this paper, the effect of different temperatures on the mechanical properties of the metal matrix is investigated using a classical molecular dynamics approach, and the effects of the configuration and distribution of graphene in the metal matrix on the mechanical properties of the composites are also described in detail. It is shown that in the case of a monolayer graphene-reinforced aluminum matrix, the simulated stretching process does not break the graphene as the strain increases, but rather, the graphene and the aluminum matrix have a shearing behavior, and thus, the graphene “pulls out" from the aluminum matrix. In the parallel stretching direction, the tensile stress tends to increase with the increase of the graphene area ratio. In the vertical stretching direction, the tensile stress tends to decrease as the percentage of graphene area increases. In the parallel stretching direction, the tensile stress of the system tends to decrease as the angle between graphene and the stretching direction increases. It is important to investigate the effect of a different graphene distribution in the aluminum matrix on the mechanical properties of the composites for the design of high-strength graphene/metal matrix composites.
Sol–Gel Photonic Glasses: From Material to Application
Authors: Righini Giancarlo C. , Armellini Cristina , Ferrari Maurizio , Carlotto Alice , Carpentiero Alessandro , Chiappini Andrea , Chiasera Alessandro , Lukowiak Anna , Tran Thi Ngoc Lam , Varas Stefano
Published: March 2023

In this review, we present a short overview of the development of sol–gel glasses for application in the field of photonics, with a focus on some of the most interesting results obtained by our group and collaborators in that area. Our main attention is devoted to silicate glasses of different compositions, which are characterized by specific optical and spectroscopic properties for various applications, ranging from luminescent systems to light-confining structures and memristors. In particular, the roles of rare-earth doping, matrix composition, the densification process and the fabrication protocol on the structural, optical and spectroscopic properties of the developed photonic systems are discussed through appropriate examples. Some achievements in the fabrication of oxide sol–gel optical waveguides and of micro- and nanostructures for the confinement of light are also briefly discussed.
Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Efficient Low-Frequency Ocean Wave Energy Harvesting with Swinging Boat Configuration
Authors: Yan Jin , Tang Zhi , Mei Naerduo , Zhang Dapeng , Zhong Yinghao , Sheng Yuxuan
Published: March 2023

To reach ocean resources, sea activities and marine equipment variety are increasing, requiring offshore energy supply. Marine wave energy, the marine renewable energy with the most potential, offers massive energy storage and great energy density. This research proposes a swinging boat-type triboelectric nanogenerator concept for low-frequency wave energy collection. Triboelectric electronanogenerators with electrodes and a nylon roller make up the swinging boat-type triboelectric nanogenerator (ST-TENG). COMSOL electrostatic simulations and power generation concepts of independent layer and vertical contact separation modes of operation explain the device functionality. By rolling the drum at the bottom of the integrated boat-like device, it is possible to capture wave energy and convert it into electrical energy. Based on it, the ST load, TENG charging, and device stability are evaluated. According to the findings, the maximum instantaneous power of the TENG in the contact separation and independent layer modes reaches 246 W and 112.5 μW at matched loads of 40 MΩ and 200 MΩ, respectively. Additionally, the ST-TENG can retain the usual functioning of the electronic watch for 45 s while charging a 33 µF capacitor to 3 V in 320 s. Long-term low-frequency wave energy collection is possible with the device. The ST-TENG develops novel methods for large-scale blue energy collection and maritime equipment power.
The Use of Typomorphic Features of Placer Gold of the Anabar Region for Determining Its Sources
Authors: Gerasimov Boris
Published: March 2023

Typomorphic features of placer gold of the Anabar region were studied as predictive-exploration criteria. The target of the study was to determine the typomorphic features of placer gold related to the intermediate sources (paleo-placers) and the supposed nearby primary ore occurrences. Two varieties of placer gold were identified. The first variety is well-rounded high-fineness lamellar gold with a highly modified internal structure. This native gold is associated with intermediate sources, Neogene–Quaternary watershed pebble beds. The second type includes slightly rounded gold with a wide variation in fineness (494‰–999‰). Its indicator is a block heterophase internal structure. The set of typomorphic features of this variety of placer gold indicates the vicinity of the primary source, what was the prerequisite for constructing prospecting traverses in order to find ore occurrences. As a result of these studies, hydrothermal-metasomatic formations with gold-sulfide mineralization were identified. The main primary substrate for them is fractured near-fault carbonate rocks of the Cambrian and Vendian–Cambrian age. Along with this, hydrothermalites developed on slightly cemented fine-pebble quartz conglomerates of the Middle Permian age were found in the core of exploration wells. Two types of metasomatic rocks are identified: quartz-potassium feldspar and jasperoid. The main ore minerals were galena and pyrite, different ratios by sites were revealed. Gold was identified in the form of small particles in the carbonate and siliceous substrate of hydrothermal-metasomatic formations. The lithological factor was one of the leading favorable factors for the ore formation due to the presence of near-fault highly permeable fractured carbonate and slightly cemented terrigenous rocks. The structural control of the studied ore occurrences is determined by their localization in the Mayat–Logoy and Dogoy–Kuoy faults of the Molodo–Popigay system of discontinuous faults. We assume a two-stage formation of the gold ore occurrences: during the first stage, the ore components in the form of primary hydrothermal-sedimentary ores in the near-gault zones were formed. The second stage was related to the processes of the Mesozoic tectonic-magmatic activation, when the intrusion of basite dikes initiated the mobilization of ore components the gold-sulfide occurrences were formed in the near-fault zone as a result of silicic-potassic metasomatosis of the carbonate and terrigenous rocks.
Development of FRET and Stress Granule Dual-Based System to Screen for Viral 3C Protease Inhibitors
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Jiang Yingpei , Wu Chunxiu , Zhou Dan , Gong Jufang , Zhao Tiejun , Jin Zhigang
Published: March 2023

3C proteases (3Cpros) of picornaviruses and 3C-like proteases (3CLpros) of coronaviruses and caliciviruses represent a group of structurally and functionally related viral proteases that play pleiotropic roles in supporting the viral life cycle and subverting host antiviral responses. The design and screening for 3C/3CLpro inhibitors may contribute to the development broad-spectrum antiviral therapeutics against viral diseases related to these three families. However, current screening strategies cannot simultaneously assess a compound’s cytotoxicity and its impact on enzymatic activity and protease-mediated physiological processes. The viral induction of stress granules (SGs) in host cells acts as an important antiviral stress response by blocking viral translation and stimulating the host immune response. Most of these viruses have evolved 3C/3CLpro-mediated cleavage of SG core protein G3BP1 to counteract SG formation and disrupt the host defense. Yet, there are no SG-based strategies screening for 3C/3CLpro inhibitors. Here, we developed a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and SG dual-based system to screen for 3C/3CLpro inhibitors in living cells. We took advantage of FRET to evaluate the protease activity of poliovirus (PV) 3Cpro and live-monitor cellular SG dynamics to cross-verify its effect on the host antiviral response. Our drug screen uncovered a novel role of Telaprevir and Trifluridine as inhibitors of PV 3Cpro. Moreover, Telaprevir and Trifluridine also modulated 3Cpro-mediated physiological processes, including the cleavage of host proteins, inhibition of the innate immune response, and consequent facilitation of viral replication. Taken together, the FRET and SG dual-based system exhibits a promising potential in the screening for inhibitors of viral proteases that cleave G3BP1.
Remote Radical 1,3-, 1,4-, 1,5-, 1,6- and 1,7-Difunctionalization Reactions
Authors: Ma Xiaoming , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2023

Radical transformations are powerful in organic synthesis for the construction of molecular scaffolds and introduction of functional groups. In radical difunctionalization reactions, the radicals in the first functionalized intermediates can be relocated through resonance, hydrogen atom or group transfer, and ring opening. The resulting radical intermediates can undertake the following paths for the second functionalization: (1) couple with other radical groups, (2) oxidize to cations and then react with nucleophiles, (3) reduce to anions and then react with electrophiles, (4) couple with metal-complexes. The rearrangements of radicals provide the opportunity for the synthesis of 1,3-, 1,4-, 1,5-, 1,6-, and 1,7-difunctionalization products. Multiple ways to initiate the radical reaction coupling with intermediate radical rearrangements make the radical reactions good for difunctionalization at the remote positions. These reactions offer the advantages of synthetic efficiency, operation simplicity, and product diversity.
Discovery of Barakacin and Its Derivatives as Novel Antiviral and Fungicidal Agents
Authors: Gao Yongyue , He Xingxing , Yan Lili , Zhang Hongyu , Liu Sijia , Ma Qian , Zhang Peiyao , Zhang Yan , Zhang Zijun , Wang Ziwen , Lu Aidang , Wang Qingmin
Published: March 2023

Pesticides are essential for the development of agriculture. It is urgent to develop green, safe and efficient pesticides. Bisindole alkaloids have unique and concise structures and broad biological activities, which make them an important leading skeleton in the creation of new pesticides. In this work, we synthesized bisindole alkaloid barakacin in a simple seven-step process, and simultaneously designed and synthesized a series of its derivatives. Biological activity research indicated that most of these compounds displayed good antiviral activities against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Among them, compound 14b exerted a superior inhibitory effect in comparison to commercially available antiviral agent ribavirin, and could be expected to become a novel antiviral candidate. Molecular biology experiments and molecular docking research found that the potential target of compound 14b was TMV coat protein (CP). These compounds also showed broad-spectrum anti-fungal activities against seven kinds of plant fungi.
The Use of Raman Spectroscopy to Monitor Changes in the Intensity of Ratio of Integral Unsaturated Bands in Bio-Greases
Authors: Drabik Jolanta , Kaźmierczak Bernadetta , Kozdrach Rafał , Rogoś Elżbieta
Published: March 2023

Bio-greases were developed on the basis of vegetable oil obtained from Crambe Abyssinic seeds. An important aspect of this research is to monitor changes in their quality taking place under the influence of external factors. Raman spectroscopy was used to identify changes taking place in the bio-lubricant under the influence of mechanical and thermal forces. The performed tests reflected the operating temperature and friction load that may occur during actual operating conditions for the lubricated friction systems. The Raman spectra provided information on qualitative changes in the structure of the tested bio-lubricants at the molecular level. The integral intensity of the bands used to assess the degree of lipid unsaturation was adopted as the evaluation criterion. The influence of the oxidation process under the PetroOxy and wear test conditions on changes in the structure of the bio-lubricants was assessed. Variation in the integral intensity of the bands (I1655/I1440) proves that the structure of vegetable lubricants changes under the influence of the tests performed. Thermal and mechanical forces influence, the bands originating in unsaturated and result in a decrease in the oxidation resistance of vegetable lubricants.
Effect of Pulse Repetition Rate on Ultrafast Laser-Induced Modification of Sodium Germanate Glass
Authors: Lotarev Sergey V. , Fedotov Sergey S. , Pomigueva Alyona I. , Lipatiev Alexey S. , Sigaev Vladimir N.
Published: March 2023

We report an unexpected pulse repetition rate effect on ultrafast-laser modification of sodium germanate glass with the composition 22Na2O 78GeO2. While at a lower pulse repetition rate (~≤250 kHz), the inscription of nanogratings possessing form birefringence is observed under series of 105–106 pulses, a higher pulse repetition rate launches peripheral microcrystallization with precipitation of the Na2Ge4O9 phase around the laser-exposed area due to the thermal effect of femtosecond pulses via cumulative heating. Depending on the pulse energy, the repetition rate ranges corresponding to nanograting formation and microcrystallization can overlap or be separated from each other. Regardless of crystallization, the unusual growth of optical retardance in the nanogratings with the pulse repetition rate starting from a certain threshold has been revealed instead of a gradual decrease in retardance with the pulse repetition rate earlier reported for some other glasses. The repetition rate threshold of the retardance growth is shown to be inversely related to the pulse energy and to vary from ~70 to 200 kHz in the studied energy range. This effect can be presumably assigned to the chemical composition shift due to the thermal diffusion of sodium cations occurring at higher pulse repetition rates when the thermal effect of the ultrashort laser pulses becomes noticeable.