bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing the Relationship between Green Infrastructure and Air Quality Issues—South Korean Cases
Authors: Liao Jianfeng , Kim Hwan Yong
Published: August 2024

In recent years, with the sustained attention from academia and media to urban air quality and environmental issues, governments and scholars worldwide have been devoted to studying the relationship between air quality and green infrastructure (GI), seeking effective measures to address urban air pollution. This study aims to explore the impact of GI on urban air quality, focusing on analyzing data from Ulsan and Junpo cities in South Korea. Significant statistical significance has been found through correlation analysis between GI area and air pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and ozone. Specifically, when calculating GI using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data, for every 1% increase in GI area, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) decreases by approximately 0.000000001925 ppm. This finding offers important insights for future air quality research and provides empirical evidence for urban planning, emphasizing the significance of green space planning in improving air quality. Additionally, the study suggests that future research should be more diverse, incorporating data from more cities and conducting an in-depth analysis of GI distribution to understand its impact on air quality comprehensively.
Comparative Study of the Impacts of Maize and Soybean on Soil and Water Conservation Benefits during Different Growth Stages in the Loess Plateau Region
Authors: Xu Qian , Lin Qingtao , Wu Faqi
Published: August 2024

Maize (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) are prevalent summer crops planted widely in the Loess Plateau region of China, which is particularly susceptible to severe soil erosion on the sloping farmland. However, which crop exhibits superior soil and water conservation capabilities while maintaining economic viability, and how their performance in soil and water conservation is affected by slope gradient and rainfall intensity remains unclear. The objective of this study was to compare the impacts of maize and soybean on regulating runoff and sediment through rainfall simulation experiments, and explore the main control factors of soil and water conservation benefits. Five slope gradients (8.7, 17.6, 26.8, 36.4, and 46.6%) and two rainfall intensities (40 and 80 mm h−1) were applied at five respective crop growth stages. Both maize and soybean effectively reduced soil and water losses compared with bare ground, although increasing slope gradient and rainfall intensity weakened the vegetation effect. Compared with slope gradient and rainfall intensity, vegetation coverage was the main factor affecting the performance of maize and soybean in conserving soil and water. The average time delay benefit (TDB), runoff reduction benefit (RRB), and sediment reduction benefit (SRB) of soybean (246.48 ± 11.71, 36.34 ± 2.51, and 54.41 ± 3.42%) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those of maize (100.06 ± 6.81, 25.71 ± 1.76, and 43.70 ± 2.91%, respectively) throughout growth. After planting, the increasing rates of vegetation coverage, TDB, RRB, and SRB with time were consistently higher with soybean than maize. Moreover, under the same vegetation coverage, the TDB, RRB, and SRB of soybean were also consistently higher than those of maize. In conclusion, these findings indicate that soybean outperformed maize in terms of soil and water conservation benefits under the experimental conditions, making it more suitable for cultivation on sloping farmland. This finding offers crucial guidance for the cultivation of dry farming in regions plagued by severe soil erosion, facilitating a balance between economic objectives and ecological imperatives.
Multicriteria Evaluation Framework for Industrial Heritage Adaptive Reuse: The Role of the ‘Intrinsic Value’
Authors: Nocca Francesca , Bosone Martina , Orabona Manuel
Published: August 2024

At the end of the 20th century, most industrial cities faced a massive phase of de-industrialisation, resulting in abandoned areas. However, these areas, rich in history and heritage, can represent significant resources for the regeneration of entire territories. Adaptive Reuse (AR) is one of the most appropriate strategies for the sustainable regeneration of brownfield sites: it gives new life to a ‘dead’ land, extending its use value so that it can continue to be enjoyed both by present and future generations. Decision-making processes concerning Industrial Heritage Adaptive Reuse (IHAR) cannot ignore the role that ‘intrinsic value’ plays in orienting development choices in such areas. Adopting participatory decision-making processes enables the inclusion of different values and interests of the stakeholders and, at the same time, increasing their awareness about the decision-making problem, thus reducing conflicts. This contribution intends to propose an evaluation framework to assess the multidimensional impacts of IHAR, considering the different values characterising them, and to support decision-making processes for the identification of the ‘preferable’ transformation scenario. This evaluation framework is applied, through the use of the TOPSIS multi-criteria evaluation method, in the case study of the ex-Italsider area in Bagnoli district (Naples, Italy), an industrial steel plant decommissioned in the early 1990s.
Ecological Security Pattern Construction and Multi-Scenario Risk Early Warning (2020–2035) in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area, China
Authors: Ma Junjie , Mei Zhixiong , Wang Xinyu , Li Sichen , Liang Jiangsen
Published: August 2024

The effectiveness of ecological security patterns (ESPs) in maintaining regional ecological stability and promoting sustainable development is widely recognized. However, limited research has focused on the early warning of risks inherent in ESPs. In this study, the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GHKMGBA) is taken as the study area, and ecological security risk zones are delineated by combining the landscape ecological risk index and habitat quality, and a multi-level ESP is constructed based on the circuit theory. The PLUS model was employed to simulate future built-up land expansion under different scenarios, which were then extracted and overlaid with the multi-level ESP to enable the multi-scenario early warning of ESP risks. The results showed the following: The ESP in the central plains and coastal areas of the GHKMGBA exhibits a high level of ecological security risk, whereas the peripheral forested areas face less threat, which is crucial for regional ecological stability. The ESP, comprising ecological sources, corridors, and pinch points, is crucial for maintaining regional ecological flow stability, with tertiary corridors under significant stress and risk in all scenarios, requiring focused restoration and enhancement efforts. There are significant differences in risk early warning severity within the ESP across various development scenarios. Under the ecological protection scenario, the ESP will have the best early warning situation, effectively protecting ecological land and reducing ecological damage, providing a valuable reference for regional development policies. However, it must not overlook economic development and still needs to further seek a balance between economic growth and ecological protection.
Integrating Entropy Weight and MaxEnt Models for Ecotourism Suitability Assessment in Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park
Authors: Quan Qianhong , Wu Yijin
Published: August 2024

The development of ecotourism in protected areas faces the challenge of balancing conservation and ecotourism. Ecotourism suitability assessments are essential tools for managing tourism in these areas. However, current assessments often overlook biological factors, leading to adverse effects on wildlife. This study uses the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park as a case study to establish a comprehensive assessment system that integrates ecotourism suitability with tiger and leopard habitat suitability, thereby linking ecotourism with wildlife conservation. The primary research methods include ecotourism suitability analysis based on the entropy weight method and habitat suitability analysis using the MaxEnt model. Based on the zoning results of ecotourism and habitat suitability, a comprehensive ecotourism suitability zoning map was produced. This map indicates that areas of very high suitability account for 45.62% of the total area, covering approximately 6152.563 km2, and are primarily located on the edges of village clusters. These areas can be prioritized for developing tourism infrastructure. The comprehensive ecotourism assessment system can balance the development of ecotourism with wildlife conservation, contributing significantly to the coordinated development of economic, social, and environmental objectives.
Preventive Cardiovascular Measures in Children with Elevated Blood Pressure
Authors: Močnik Mirjam , Marčun Varda Nataša
Published: August 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries and are becoming increasingly significant in developing nations. Many cardiovascular risk factors originate early in life, even prenatally. Elevated blood pressure and hypertension are gaining attention in paediatrics due to their rising prevalence and impact on early cardiovascular risk in adulthood. Along with non-modifiable risk factors for hypertension, several modifiable factors can be addressed through primordial and primary prevention, emphasising lifestyle modifications. When these measures fail and elevated blood pressure develops, early detection is crucial (secondary prevention). Regular blood pressure measurement, a simple and non-invasive procedure, should be a standard practice in paediatric clinical settings. Diagnosing elevated blood pressure and hypertension should adhere to recommended guidelines. Lifestyle modifications are the first-line therapy for primary hypertension in children; if a secondary cause is identified, targeted treatment can be implemented, but a healthy lifestyle remains essential. The early detection and treatment of high-risk blood pressure enable timely interventions to prevent complications (tertiary prevention). Collectively, these preventive measures aim to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Furthermore, quaternary prevention seeks to avoid unnecessary or harmful medical interventions including unwarranted examinations and pharmacotherapy. This underscores the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment of elevated blood pressure and hypertension and emphasises the need for primordial and primary prevention to minimise unnecessary clinical interventions.
Perspectives for Photocatalytic Decomposition of Environmental Pollutants on Photoactive Particles of Soil Minerals
Authors: Sosnowska Agnieszka , Hęclik Kinga I. , Kisała Joanna B. , Celuch Monika , Pogocki Dariusz
Published: August 2024

The literature shows that both in laboratory and in industrial conditions, the photocatalytic oxidation method copes quite well with degradation of most environmental toxins and pathogenic microorganisms. However, the effective utilization of photocatalytic processes for environmental decontamination and disinfection requires significant technological advancement in both the area of semiconductor material synthesis and its application. Here, we focused on the presence and “photocatalytic capability” of photocatalysts among soil minerals and their potential contributions to the environmental decontamination in vitro and in vivo. Reactions caused by sunlight on the soil surface are involved in its normal redox activity, taking part also in the soil decontamination. However, their importance for decontamination in vivo cannot be overstated, due to the diversity of soils on the Earth, which is caused by the environmental conditions, such as climate, parent material, relief, vegetation, etc. The sunlight-induced reactions are just a part of complicated soil chemistry processes dependent on a plethora of environmental determinates. The multiplicity of affecting factors, which we tried to sketch from the perspective of chemists and environmental scientists, makes us rather skeptical about the effectiveness of the photocatalytic decontamination in vivo. On the other hand, there is a huge potential of the soils as the alternative and probably cheaper source of useful photocatalytic materials of unique properties. In our opinion, establishing collaboration between experts from different disciplines is the most crucial opportunity, as well as a challenge, for the advancement of photocatalysis.
Comparative Analysis of Surface Roughness and Plastic Deformation of Reciprocating Instruments after Clinical Use
Authors: Herrera Ángel , Azabal Magdalena , Jimenez-Octavio Jesús R. , del Real-Romero Juan C. , López de Armentia Sara , Asensio-Gil Juan M. , Arias Ana
Published: August 2024

This study assessed the surface topography and plastic deformation (PD) of new and used contemporary reciprocating instruments. Twenty-six WaveOne Gold (WOG) and EdgeOne Fire (EO) instruments were photographed under magnification. The instruments were randomly assigned to a control group of new instruments preserved for surface roughness analysis (n = 6 each), or to an experimental group to shape the root canal system of a single molar (n = 20 each), making a total of four groups (WOGnew, EOnew, WOGused, EOused). Used instruments were also photographed after instrumentation. The presence of fractures was registered. Preoperative and postoperative images were randomly ordered for evaluation. Two blinded calibrated examiners evaluated the presence of PD. Inter-observer agreement was calculated with the Kappa coefficient (K = 0.89). 3D profilometry was also used for the surface roughness analysis of six randomly selected instruments from the WOGused and EOused groups. Chi-square and two-way ANOVA tests were used to, respectively, compare PD and changes in surface roughness among the groups. No instruments fractured; however, a significantly greater percentage of EO instruments suffered plastic deformation than WOG instruments (p < 0.001), (OR = 11.09 (CI 95% 2.6–56.3)). The overall surface roughness was higher for most parameters in the EO instruments (p < 0.05). Single uses of EO instruments produced significantly higher chances of PD and increased surface roughness values compared to WOG.
Light-Cured Junction Formation and Broad-Band Imaging Application in Thermally Mismatched van der Waals Heterointerface
Authors: Cheng Liyuan , Quan Qinglin , Hu Liang
Published: August 2024

Van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures are mainly fabricated by a classic dry transfer procedure, but the interface quality is often subject to the vdW gap, residual strains, and defect species. The realization of interface fusion and repair holds significant implications for the modulation of multiple photoelectric conversion processes. In this work, we propose a thermally mismatched strategy to trigger broad-band and high-speed photodetection performance based on a type-I heterostructure composed of black phosphorus (BP) and FePS3 (FPS) nanoflakes. The BP acts as photothermal source to promote interface fusion when large optical power is adopted. The regulation of optical power enables the device from pyroelectric (PE) and/or alternating current photovoltaic (AC–PV) mode to a mixed photovoltaic (PV)/photothermoelectric (PTE)/PE mode. The fused heterostructure device presents an extended detection range (405~980 nm) for the FPS. The maximum responsivity and detectivity are 329.86 mA/W and 6.95 × 1010 Jones, respectively, and the corresponding external quantum efficiency (EQE) approaches ~100%. Thanks to these thermally-related photoelectric conversion mechanism, the response and decay time constants of device are as fast as 290 μs and 265 μs, respectively, superior to current all FPS-based photodetectors. The robust environmental durability also renders itself as a high-speed and broad-band imaging sensor.
Effect of Cyclic Warm-Rolling Technique on Mechanical Properties of MoCu30 Thin Plates with Heterogeneous Structure
Authors: Hu Xianlei , Hu Huan , Lai Ruimin , Xie Qincheng , Zhi Ying
Published: August 2024

By employing a cyclic warm rolling technique, MoCu30 alloy sheets of different thicknesses were prepared to investigate the effects of various rolling reduction rates on the microstructure and mechanical properties of MoCu30 alloys. Additionally, the evolution of microscale heterogeneous deformation during the tensile process was observed based on DIC technology. This study reveals that Mo–Cu interfaces at different deformation rates exhibit an amorphous interlayer of 0.5–1.0 μm thickness, which contributes to enhancing the bond strength of Mo–Cu interfaces. As the rolling reduction rate increased, the grain size of the MoCu30 alloy gradually decreased, whereas the dislocation density and hardness increased. Furthermore, the yield strength and tensile strength of the MoCu30 alloy increased gradually, whereas the elongation decreased. At a deformation rate of 74% (2 mm), the yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation of the MoCu30 alloy were 647.9 MPa, 781.8 MPa, and 11.7%, respectively. During the tensile process of Mo–Cu dual-phase heterogeneous material, a unique hierarchical strain banding was formed, which helps to suppress strain localization and prevent premature plastic instability.
Nonlinearity of the Upconversion Response of Er3+ in Y2TiO5:Er3+,Yb3+ Ceramics When Varying the Wavelength of Incident NIR Excitation Radiation
Authors: Dudaș Liviu , Berger Daniela , Matei Cristian
Published: August 2024

The upconversion response of Er3+ sensitized by Yb3+ in various crystalline hosts and illuminated with a laser light at around 980 nm revealed certain spectral shapes that are typical for each of the crystalline matrices containing the dopants. The purpose of this work was to measure the upconversion response of Er3+ as a dopant in Y2TiO5, sensitized by Yb3+, at different concentrations relative to the substituted Y3+ ion, and to reveal the subtleties of the mechanisms of the energy transfers between them and the lattice. Therefore, we synthesized Y2TiO5 ceramic samples doped with different concentrations of Er3+ and Yb3+, below 10% (mol), in order to minimize the distortion of the lattice. The oxide powders, obtained using the sol–gel method, as well as the ceramics were structurally and morphologically characterized using an X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. When the ceramic samples were irradiated with an NIR laser light, it was found that, at a wavelength variation of only 2 nm of the incident radiation, from 973.5 nm to 975.5 nm, the upconversion spectra differed significantly. This nonlinearity is notable because it is not present in the case of other crystalline host matrices studied by us since the literature lacks information on this subject. We also correlated this effect with the simulated distribution of the average distances between Er3+ and Yb3+ ions in the host matrix.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of As-Cast Al-10Ce-3Mg-xZn Alloys
Authors: Zhang Haiyang , Wu Mingdong , Li Zeyu , Xiao Daihong , Huang Yang , Huang Lanping , Liu Wensheng
Published: August 2024

The microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast Al-10Ce-3Mg-xZn (x = 0, 1, 3, 5 wt.%) alloys were systematically investigated, with a focus on the effect of Zn on the Al11Ce3 reinforcing phase in the alloy. The results showed that the Al-10Ce-3Mg alloy consists of α-Al, a Chinese-script Al11Ce3 eutectic phase, and a massive Al11Ce3 primary phase. With the addition of Zn content, most of the Zn atoms are enriched in the Al11Ce3 phase to form the acicular-like Al2CeZn2 phase within the Al11Ce3 phase. Increasing the Zn content can increase the volume fraction of the Al11Ce3 phase. Compared to the alloy without Zn addition, the microhardness and elastic modulus of the Al2CeZn2-reinforced Al11Ce3 phase in the alloy with 5 wt.% Zn increased by 18.9% and 9.0%, respectively. Moreover, the room-temperature mechanical properties of Al-10Ce-3Mg alloys were significantly improved due to the addition of Zn element. The alloy containing 5 wt.% Zn had the best tensile properties with an ultimate tensile strength of 210 MPa and a yield strength of 171MPa, which were 21% and 77% higher than those of the alloy without Zn, respectively. The alloy containing 5 wt.% Zn demonstrated a superior retention ratio of tensile strength at 200–300 °C, indicating that the alloy has excellent heat resistance. The improvement in the mechanical properties is primarily attributed to second-phase strengthening and solid solution strengthening.
Thermally Active Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) with the Addition of Phase Change Materials for Furniture and Interior Design
Authors: Dasiewicz Julia , Wronka Anita , Jeżo Aleksandra , Kowaluk Grzegorz
Published: August 2024

No matter where we reside, the issue of greenhouse gas emissions impacts us all. Their influence has a disastrous effect on the earth’s climate, producing global warming and many other irreversible environmental impacts, even though it is occasionally invisible to the independent eye. Phase change materials (PCMs) can store and release heat when it is abundant during the day (e.g., from solar radiation), for use at night, or on chilly days when buildings need to be heated. As a consequence, buildings use less energy to heat and cool, which lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, research on thermally active medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with PCMs is presented in this work. MDF is useful for interior design and furniture manufacturing. The boards were created using pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and spruce (Picea abies L.) fibers, urea–formaldehyde resin, and PCM powder, with a phase transition temperature of 22 °C, a density of 785 kg m−3, a latent heat capacity of 160 kJ kg−1, a volumetric heat capacity of 126 MJ m−3, a specific heat capacity of 2.2 kJ kgK−1, a thermal conductivity of 0.18 W mK−1, and a maximum operating temperature of 200 °C. Before resination, the wood fibers were divided into two outer layers (16%) and an interior layer (68% by weight). Throughout the resination process, the PCM particles were solely integrated into the inner layer fibers. The mats were created by hand. A hydraulic press (AKE, Mariannelund, Sweden) was used to press the boards, and its operating parameters were 180 °C, 20 s/mm of nominal thickness, and 2.5 MPa for the maximum unit pressing pressure. Five variants of MDF with a PCM additive were developed: 0%, 5%, 10%, 30%, and 50%. According to the study, scores at the MOR, MOE, IB, and screw withdrawal resistance (SWR) tests decreased when PCM content was added, for example, MOE from 3176 to 1057 N mm−2, MOR from 41.2 to 11.5 N mm−2, and IB from 0.78 to 0.27 N mm−2. However, the results of the thickness swelling and water absorption tests indicate that the PCM particles do not exhibit a substantial capacity to absorb water, retaining the dimensional stability of the MDF boards. The thickness swelling positively decreased with the PCM content increase from 15.1 to 7.38% after 24 h of soaking. The panel’s thermal characteristics improved with the increasing PCM concentration, according to the data. The density profiles of all the variations under consideration had a somewhat U-shaped appearance; however, the version with a 50% PCM content had a flatter form and no obvious layer compaction on the panel surface. Therefore, certain mechanical and physical characteristics of the manufactured panels can be enhanced by a well-chosen PCM addition.
Analysis of the Effect of Layer Height on the Interlayer Bond in Self-Compacting Concrete Mix in Slab Elements
Authors: Dybeł Piotr , Kucharska Milena
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a study on the influence of the layered casting technology of self-compacting concrete (SCC) on the load-bearing capacity of interlayer bond in slab elements. The research was conducted on slab elements with dimensions of 750 × 750 × 150 mm, concreted from a single point of concrete delivery. The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of the height of the concreting top layer on the bond strength between the layers. The study utilised top layer heights of 50, 75, and 100 mm, which, according to the authors’ experience, are the most common cases when making slab elements. The interlayer bond was determined by investigating the splitting tensile strength of cubic specimens cut from the concrete slabs. Computed tomography (CT) was employed to image the contact zone between the concrete layers. Based on the analysis of the CT imaging and the results of the strength tests, it was shown that the interlayer bond is influenced by both the height of the top layer and its free-spread distance from the casting point. A reduction in the interlayer bond strength was observed with decreasing the height of the top layer and increasing distance from the mixture supply point. The relationships obtained were linear and had a clearly negative slope. It was concluded that the valid recommendations and standards for the multilayer casting of SCC are too general. Therefore, we propose to detail the recommendations to reduce the risk of cold joints, which diminish the bond strength of the interlayer joints
High Electron Mobility in Si-Doped Two-Dimensional β-Ga2O3 Tuned Using Biaxial Strain
Authors: Zeng Hui , Ma Chao , Wu Meng
Published: August 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors have attracted much attention regarding their use in flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices, but the inherent poor electron mobility in conventional 2D materials severely restricts their applications. Using first-principles calculations in conjunction with Boltzmann transport theory, we systematically investigated the Si-doped 2D β-Ga2O3 structure mediated by biaxial strain, where the structural stabilities were determined by formation energy, phonon spectrum, and ab initio molecular dynamic simulation. Initially, the band gap values of Si-doped 2D β-Ga2O3 increased slightly, followed by a rapid decrease from 2.46 eV to 1.38 eV accompanied by strain modulations from −8% compressive to +8% tensile, which can be ascribed to the bigger energy elevation of the σ* anti-bonding in the conduction band minimum than that of the π bonding in the valence band maximum. Additionally, band structure calculations resolved a direct-to-indirect transition under the tensile strains. Furthermore, a significantly high electron mobility up to 4911.18 cm2 V−1 s−1 was discovered in Si-doped 2D β-Ga2O3 as the biaxial tensile strain approached 8%, which originated mainly from the decreased quantum confinement effect on the surface. The electrical conductivity was elevated with the increase in tensile strain and the enhancement of temperature from 300 K to 800 K. Our studies demonstrate the tunable electron mobilities and band structures of Si-doped 2D β-Ga2O3 using biaxial strain and shed light on its great potential in nanoscale electronics.
Color Stability of Various Orthodontic Clear Aligner Systems after Submersion in Different Staining Beverages
Authors: Olteanu Nicolae Daniel , Taraboanta Ionut , Panaite Tinela , Balcos Carina , Rosu Sorana Nicoleta , Vieriu Raluca Maria , Dinu Stefania , Zetu Irina Nicoleta
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to compare the color changes in two different orthodontic clear aligner systems after submersion in various beverages for 14 days. The tested aligner systems were Taglus Premium made of polyethylene terephthalate glycol (the TAG group) and CA® Prodin+ made of a transparent copolyester and a thermoplastic elastomer (the PRO group). A total of 56 samples were firstly divided into two groups according to the tested system—TAG and PRO. Each group was subsequently divided in four subgroups according to immersion solution: A—artificial saliva, B—cola, C—coffee, D—red wine. Color measurements were performed on Days 1, 7 and 14 using a portable colorimeter and the CIE L*a*b* system. The obtained results showed significant color changes in both materials when exposed to coffee and red wine (p > 0.05). Samples in the PRO group showed a greater susceptibility to discoloration (higher ΔE values) when compared to the TAG group after submersion in cola (p = 0.025), coffee (p = 0.005) and red wine (p = 0.041) solutions. Statistical analysis revealed that all of the color parameters ΔL*, Δa*, Δb* and ΔE of both tested materials were affected by submersion in coffee solution for 14 days. In conclusion, the CA® Pro+ aligner system is more prone to staining compared to the Taglus material after submersion for 14 days in cola, coffee and red wine solutions. Submersion for 14 days in coffee solution alters all of the color parameters (ΔL, Δa, Δb and ΔE) of both tested aligner materials.
Study on High-Ductility Geopolymer Concrete: The Influence of Oven Heat Curing Conditions on Mechanical Properties and Microstructural Development
Authors: Luo Ruihao , Liu Runan , Qin Guang , Jiang Minyang , Wu Yixian , Guo Yongchang
Published: August 2024

Low carbon and high performance have become key trends in the development of construction materials. Understanding the mechanism by which curing conditions affect the mechanical properties of high-ductility geopolymer concrete (HDGC) is of significant importance. This study investigated three sealing curing temperatures (room temperature, 45 °C, and 60 °C) and four curing durations (1 day, 3 days, 5 days, and 7 days), while considering two final curing ages (7 days and 28 days) to explore their effects on the axial tensile and compressive properties of HDGC. The results showed that both 45 °C and 60 °C could improve the brittle failure of HDGC under axial compressive loading. However, curing at 60 °C and for durations longer than 1 day in an oven would catalyze the formation of eight-faced zeolite crystals within the slag–fly ash geopolymer matrix, and it could weaken the matrix’s pore structure and subsequently affect the material’s later strength development. Nevertheless, oven heat curing enhanced the bridging effect between the fibers and the matrix, partially compensating for the reduction in the initial tensile strength of HDGC. This follows the pseudo-strain-hardening material’s saturation cracking criterion to enhance the strain-hardening behavior of HDGC and improve its tensile energy absorption capacity. A curing condition of 45 °C for 5 days is recommended to maximize the ductility of HDGC. This study provides important theoretical support for the design and promotion of green, low-carbon, high-ductility composite materials.
Personalizing Human–Robot Workplace Parameters in Human-Centered Manufacturing
Authors: Ojsteršek Robert , Buchmeister Borut , Javernik Aljaž
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the relationship between collaborative robot (CR) parameters and worker utilization and system performance in human–robot collaboration (HRC) environments. We investigated whether optimized parameters increase workplace efficiency and whether adapting these parameters to the individual worker improves workplace outcomes. Three experimental scenarios with different CR parameters were analyzed in terms of the setup time, assembly time, finished products, work in process, and worker utilization. The main results show that personalized CR parameters significantly improve efficiency and productivity. The scenario in which CR parameters were tailored to individual workers, balanced the workload, and minimized worker stress, resulting in higher productivity compared to non-people-centric settings. The study shows that personalization reduces cognitive and physical stress, promotes worker well-being, and is consistent with the principles of human-centered manufacturing. Overall, our research supports the adoption of personalized, collaborative workplace parameters, supported by the mathematical model, to optimize employee efficiency and health, contributing to human-centered and efficient HRC environments.
Bounds of Different Integral Operators in Tensorial Hilbert and Variable Exponent Function Spaces
Authors: Afzal Waqar , Abbas Mujahid , Alsalami Omar Mutab
Published: August 2024

In dynamical systems, Hilbert spaces provide a useful framework for analyzing and solving problems because they are able to handle infinitely dimensional spaces. Many dynamical systems are described by linear operators acting on a Hilbert space. Understanding the spectrum, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors of these operators is crucial. Functional analysis typically involves the use of tensors to represent multilinear mappings between Hilbert spaces, which can result in inequality in tensor Hilbert spaces. In this paper, we study two types of function spaces and use convex and harmonic convex mappings to establish various operator inequalities and their bounds. In the first part of the article, we develop the operator Hermite–Hadamard and upper and lower bounds for weighted discrete Jensen-type inequalities in Hilbert spaces using some relational properties and arithmetic operations from the tensor analysis. Furthermore, we use the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral and develop several new identities which are used in operator Milne-type inequalities to develop several new bounds using different types of generalized mappings, including differentiable, quasi-convex, and convex mappings. Furthermore, some examples and consequences for logarithm and exponential functions are also provided. Furthermore, we provide an interesting example of a physics dynamical model for harmonic mean. Lastly, we develop Hermite–Hadamard inequality in variable exponent function spaces, specifically in mixed norm function space (lq(·)(Lp(·))). Moreover, it was developed using classical Lebesgue space (Lp) space, in which the exponent is constant. This inequality not only refines Jensen and triangular inequality in the norm sense, but we also impose specific conditions on exponent functions to show whether this inequality holds true or not.
Revisiting the Use of the Gumbel Distribution: A Comprehensive Statistical Analysis Regarding Modeling Extremes and Rare Events
Authors: Anghel Cristian Gabriel
Published: August 2024

The manuscript presents the applicability of the Gumbel distribution in the frequency analysis of extreme events in hydrology. The advantages and disadvantages of using the distribution are highlighted, as well as recommendations regarding its proper use. A literature review was also carried out regarding the methods for estimating the parameters of the Gumbel distribution in hydrology. Thus, for the verification of the methods, case studies are presented regarding the determination of the maximum annual flows and precipitations using nine methods for estimating the distribution parameters. The influence of the variability of the observed data lengths on the estimation of the statistical indicators, the estimation of the parameters, and the quantiles corresponding to the field of small exceedance probabilities (p < 1%) is also highlighted. In each case, the results are analyzed compared to those obtained with the Generalized Extreme Value distribution, the four-parameter Burr distribution, and the five-parameter Wakeby distribution estimated using the L-moments method. The results of the case studies highlight and reaffirm the statistical, mathematical, and hydrological recommendations regarding the avoidance of applying the Gumbel distribution in flood frequency analysis and its use with reservations in the case of maximum precipitation analysis, especially when the statistical indicators of the analyzed data are not close to the characteristic ones and unique to the distribution.
Graph Neural Network Based Asynchronous Federated Learning for Digital Twin-Driven Distributed Multi-Agent Dynamical Systems
Authors: Sheng Xuanzhu , Zhou Yang , Cui Xiaolong
Published: August 2024

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and 5G paradigm brings infinite possibilities for data annotation for new applications in the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). However, the problem of data annotation consistency under distributed architectures and growing concerns about issues such as data privacy and cybersecurity are major obstacles to improving the quality of distributed data annotation. In this paper, we propose a reputation-based asynchronous federated learning approach for digital twins. First, this paper integrates digital twins into an asynchronous federated learning framework, and utilizes a smart contract-based reputation mechanism to enhance the interconnection and internal interaction of asynchronous mobile terminals. In addition, in order to enhance security and privacy protection in the distributed smart annotation system, this paper introduces blockchain technology to optimize the data exchange, storage, and sharing process to improve system security and reliability. The data results show that the consistency of our proposed FedDTrep distributed intelligent labeling system reaches 99%.
The Period Function of the Generalized Sine-Gordon Equation and the Sinh-Poisson Equation
Authors: Lu Lin , He Xiaokai , Zhou Xing
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we consider the generalized sine-Gordon equation ψtx=(1+a∂x2)sinψ and the sinh-Poisson equation uxx+uyy+σsinhu=0, where a is a real parameter, and σ is a positive parameter. Under different conditions, e.g., a=0, a≠0, and σ>0, the periods of the periodic wave solutions for the above two equations are discussed. By the transformation of variables, the generalized sine-Gordon equation and sinh-Poisson equations are reduced to planar dynamical systems whose first integral includes trigonometric terms and exponential terms, respectively. We successfully handle the trigonometric terms and exponential terms in the study of the monotonicity of the period function of periodic solutions.
Skew-Normal Inflated Models: Mathematical Characterization and Applications to Medical Data with Excess of Zeros and Ones
Authors: Martínez-Flórez Guillermo , Tovar-Falón Roger , Leiva Víctor , Castro Cecilia
Published: August 2024

The modeling of data involving proportions, confined to a unit interval, is crucial in diverse research fields. Such data, expressing part-to-whole relationships, span from the proportion of individuals affected by diseases to the allocation of resources in economic sectors and the survival rates of species in ecology. However, modeling these data and interpreting information obtained from them present challenges, particularly when there is high zero–one inflation at the extremes of the unit interval, which indicates the complete absence or full occurrence of a characteristic or event. This inflation limits traditional statistical models, which often fail to capture the underlying distribution, leading to biased or imprecise statistical inferences. To address these challenges, we propose and derive the skew-normal zero–one inflated (SNZOI) models, a novel class of asymmetric regression models specifically designed to accommodate zero–one inflation presented in the data. By integrating a continuous-discrete mixture distribution with covariates in both continuous and discrete parts, SNZOI models exhibit superior capability compared to traditional models when describing these complex data structures. The applicability and effectiveness of the proposed models are demonstrated through case studies, including the analysis of medical data. Precise modeling of inflated proportion data unveils insights representing advancements in the statistical analysis of such studies. The present investigation highlights the limitations of existing models and shows the potential of SNZOI models to provide more accurate and precise inferences in the presence of zero–one inflation.
Dynamics of a Dengue Transmission Model with Multiple Stages and Fluctuations
Authors: Wang Zuwen , Cai Shaojian , Chen Guangmin , Zheng Kuicheng , Wei Fengying , Jin Zhen , Mao Xuerong , Xie Jianfeng
Published: August 2024

A vector–host model of dengue with multiple stages and independent fluctuations is investigated in this paper. Firstly, the existence and uniqueness of the positive solution are shown by contradiction. When the death rates of aquatic mosquitoes, adult mosquitoes, and human beings respectively control the intensities of white noises, and if R0s>1, then the persistence in the mean for both infective mosquitoes and infective human beings is derived. When R0s>1 is valid, the existence of stationary distribution is derived through constructing several appropriate Lyapunov functions. If the intensities of white noises are controlled and φ<0 is valid, then the extinction for both infective mosquitoes and infective human beings is obtained by applying the comparison theorem and ergodic theorem. Further, the main findings are verified through numerical simulations by using the positive preserving truncated Euler–Maruyama method (PPTEM). Moreover, several numerical simulations on the infection scale of dengue in Fuzhou City were conducted using surveillance data. The main results indicate that the decrease in the transfer proportion from aquatic mosquitoes to adult mosquitoes reduces the infection scale of infective human beings with dengue virus, and the death rates of aquatic mosquitoes and adult mosquitoes affect the value of the critical threshold R0s. Further, the controls of the death rates of mosquitoes are the effective routes by the decision-makers of the Chinese mainland against the spread of dengue.
A Comparative Analysis on Impact of Extraction Methods on Carotenoids Composition, Antioxidants, Antidiabetes, and Antiobesity Properties in Seagrass Enhalus acoroides: In Silico and In Vitro Study
Authors: Tjandrawinata Raymond Rubianto , Nurkolis Fahrul
Published: August 2024

Enhalus acoroides, a tropical seagrass, is known for its significant contribution to marine ecosystems and its potential health benefits due to bioactive compounds. This study aims to compare the carotenoid levels in E. acoroides using green extraction via ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and to evaluate the biological properties of these extracts against oxidative stress, diabetes, and obesity through in silico and in vitro analyses. E. acoroides samples were collected from Manado City, Indonesia, and subjected to UAE and MAE. The extracts were analyzed using UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS to identify carotenoids, including β-carotene, lutein, lycopene, β-cryptoxanthin, and zeaxanthin. In silico analysis was conducted to predict the compounds’ bioactivity, toxicity, and drug-likeness using WAY2DRUG PASS and molecular docking with CB-Dock2. The compounds C3, C4, and C7 demonstrated notable interactions, with key metabolic proteins and microRNAs, further validating their potential therapeutic benefits. In vitro assays evaluated antioxidant activities using DPPH and FRAP assays, antidiabetic properties through α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition, and antiobesity effects via lipase inhibition and MTT assay with 3T3-L1 cells. Results indicated that both UAE and MAE extracts exhibited significant antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antiobesity activities. MAE extracts showed higher carotenoid content and greater biological activity compared to UAE extracts. These findings suggest that E. acoroides, mainly when extracted using MAE, has promising potential as a source of natural bioactive compounds for developing marine-based antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antiobesity agents. This study supplements existing literature by providing insights into the efficient extraction methods and the therapeutic potential of E. acoroides carotenoids.
Extraction of Omega-3 Fatty Acids from Atlantic Sea Cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa) Viscera Using Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Lin Jianan , Jiao Guangling , Brooks Marianne Su-Ling , Budge Suzanne M. , Kermanshahi-pour Azadeh
Published: August 2024

This study explores the potential of Cucumaria frondosa (C. frondosa) viscera as a natural source of omega-3 FAs using supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) extraction. The extraction conditions were optimized using a response surface design, and the optimal parameters were identified as 75 °C and 45 MPa, with a 20 min static and a 30 min dynamic extraction, and a 2:1 ethanol to feedstock mass ratio. Under these conditions, the scCO2 extraction yielded higher FAs than the solvent-based Bligh and Dyer method. The comparative analysis demonstrated that scCO2 extraction (16.30 g of FAs/100 g of dried samples) yielded more fatty acids than the conventional Bligh and Dyer method (9.02 g, or 13.59 g of FAs/100 g of dried samples with ultrasonic assistance), indicating that scCO2 extraction is a viable, green alternative to traditional solvent-based techniques for recovering fatty acids. The pre-treatment effects, including drying methods and ethanol-soaking, were investigated. Freeze-drying significantly enhanced FA yields to almost 100% recovery, while ethanol-soaked viscera tripled the FA yields compared to fresh samples, achieving similar EPA and DHA levels to hot-air-dried samples. These findings highlight the potential of sea cucumber viscera as an efficient source of omega-3 FA extraction and offer an alternative to traditional extraction procedures.
Cross-Sectional Study on Self-Perception of Dento-Facial Asymmetry
Authors: Botezatu Alexandra-Nina , Cernei Eduard Radu , Zegan Georgeta
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Facial symmetry is a key component of facial beauty and attractiveness. However, perfect symmetry is rare, and slight asymmetries, also known as natural asymmetries, are common and contribute to the uniqueness of each face. The perception of facial asymmetry varies among individuals and can be influenced by several factors. This study aimed to investigate the self-perception of dento-facial asymmetry among a sample of Romanian individuals, focusing on their awareness, the extent to which it bothers them, and their desire for correction. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with 283 participants from Romania between January and February 2024. Participants completed a questionnaire designed to assess their self-perception of facial asymmetry and socio-demographic characteristics. The questionnaire included 10 questions on self-perception of facial asymmetry and 8 questions on socio-demographic data. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0, and the Pearson Chi-square test was used for comparative analysis. Results: The sample was predominantly female (75.3%) with an average age of 32.24 years. Most participants were from urban areas (80.6%) and had university degrees (58.7%). About 28.7% of participants observed facial asymmetry, with dental asymmetry being the most frequently reported, followed by asymmetries in the eyebrows and eyelids. The right side of the face was more commonly perceived as asymmetric. Although 24.4% of participants were bothered by their asymmetry, 39.2% expressed a desire to correct it. Conclusions: One-third of participants identified dento-facial asymmetry, with the dental level being the most reported. A significant portion of participants expressed a desire to correct their asymmetries, highlighting the importance of understanding self-perception in the context of facial aesthetics. This study underscores the subjective nature of facial asymmetry perception and the varying thresholds for what is considered bothersome or in need of correction.