bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth Light Quality Influences Leaf Surface Temperature by Regulating the Rate of Non-Photochemical Quenching Thermal Dissipation and Stomatal Conductance
Authors: Trojak Magdalena , Skowron Ernest
Published: November 2023

Significant efforts have been made to optimise spectrum quality in indoor farming to maximise artificial light utilisation and reduce water loss. For such an improvement, green (G) light supplementation to a red–blue (RB) background was successfully employed in our previous studies to restrict both non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and stomatal conductance (gs). At the same time, however, the downregulation of NPQ and gs had the opposite influence on leaf temperature (Tleaf). Thus, to determine which factor plays the most prominent role in Tleaf regulation and whether such a response is temporal or permanent, we investigated the correlation between NPQ and gs and, subsequently, Tleaf. To this end, we analysed tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L. cv. Malinowy Ozarowski) grown solely under monochromatic LED lamps (435, 520, or 662 nm; 80 µmol m−2 s−1) or a mixed RGB spectrum (1:1:1; 180 µmol m−2 s−1) and simultaneously measured gs and Tleaf with an infrared gas analyser and a thermocouple or an infrared thermal camera (FLIR) during thermal imaging analyses. The results showed that growth light quality significantly modifies Tleaf and that such a response is not temporal. Furthermore, we found that the actual adaxial leaf surface temperature of plants is more closely related to NPQ amplitude, while the temperature of the abaxial surface corresponds to gs.
Complex Chromosomal Rearrangement Involving Chromosomes 10 and 11, Accompanied by Two Adjacent 11p14.1p13 and 11p13p12 Deletions, Identified in a Patient with WAGR Syndrome
Authors: Marakhonov Andrey V. , Vasilyeva Tatyana A. , Minzhenkova Marina E. , Sukhanova Natella V. , Sparber Peter A. , Andreeva Natalya A. , Teleshova Margarita V. , Baybagisova Fatima K.-M. , Shilova Nadezhda V. , Kutsev Sergey I. , Zinchenko Rena A.
Published: November 2023

Three years ago, our patient, at that time a 16-month-old boy, was discovered to have bilateral kidney lesions with a giant tumor in the right kidney. Chemotherapy and bilateral nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) for Wilms tumor with nephroblastomatosis was carried out. The patient also had eye affection, including glaucoma, eye enlargement, megalocornea, severe corneal swelling and opacity, complete aniridia, and nystagmus. The diagnosis of WAGR syndrome was suspected. De novo complex chromosomal rearrangement with balanced translocation t(10,11)(p15;p13) and a pericentric inversion inv(11)(p13q12), accompanied by two adjacent 11p14.1p13 and 11p13p12 deletions, were identified. Deletions are raised through the complex molecular mechanism of two subsequent rearrangements affecting chromosomes 11 and 10. WAGR syndrome diagnosis was clinically and molecularly confirmed, highlighting the necessity of comprehensive genetic testing in patients with congenital aniridia and/or WAGR syndrome.
Down-Regulation of Rice Glutelin by CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing Decreases Carbohydrate Content and Grain Weight and Modulates Synthesis of Seed Storage Proteins during Seed Maturation
Authors: Chandra Deepanwita , Cho Kyoungwon , Pham Hue Anh , Lee Jong-Yeol , Han Oksoo
Published: November 2023

The glutelins are a family of abundant plant proteins comprised of four glutelin subfamilies (GluA, GluB, GluC, and GluD) encoded by 15 genes. In this study, expression of subsets of rice glutelins were suppressed using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology to generate three transgenic rice variant lines, GluA1, GluB2, and GluC1. Suppression of the targeted glutelin genes was confirmed by SDS-PAGE, Western blot, and q-RT-PCR. Transgenic rice variants GluA1, GluB2, and GluC1 showed reduced amylose and starch content, increased prolamine content, reduced grain weight, and irregularly shaped protein aggregates/protein bodies in mature seeds. Targeted transcriptional profiling of immature seeds was performed with a focus on genes associated with grain quality, starch content, and grain weight, and the results were analyzed using the Pearson correlation test (requiring correlation coefficient absolute value ≥ 0.7 for significance). Significantly up- or down-regulated genes were associated with gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway functional annotations related to RNA processing (spliceosomal RNAs, group II catalytic introns, small nucleolar RNAs, microRNAs), as well as protein translation (transfer RNA, ribosomal RNA and other ribosome and translation factors). These results suggest that rice glutelin genes may interact during seed development with genes that regulate synthesis of starch and seed storage proteins and modulate their expression via post-transcriptional and translational mechanisms.
A New Bioactive Fibrin Formulation Provided Superior Cartilage Regeneration in a Caprine Model
Authors: Vardar Elif , Nam Hui Yin , Vythilingam Ganesh , Tan Han Ling , Mohamad Wali Haryanti Azura , Engelhardt Eva-Maria , Kamarul Tunku , Zambelli Pierre-Yves , Samara Eleftheria
Published: November 2023

The effective and long-term treatment of cartilage defects is an unmet need among patients worldwide. In the past, several synthetic and natural biomaterials have been designed to support functional articular cartilage formation. However, they have mostly failed to enhance the terminal stage of chondrogenic differentiation, leading to scar tissue formation after the operation. Growth factors substantially regulate cartilage regeneration by acting on receptors to trigger intracellular signaling and cell recruitment for tissue regeneration. In this study, we investigated the effect of recombinant insulin-like growth factor 1 (rIGF-1), loaded in fibrin microbeads (FibIGF1), on cartilage regeneration. rIGF-1-loaded fibrin microbeads were injected into full-thickness cartilage defects in the knees of goats. The stability, integration, and quality of tissue repair were evaluated at 1 and 6 months by gross morphology, histology, and collagen type II staining. The in vivo results showed that compared to plain fibrin samples, particularly at 6 months, FibIGF1 improved the functional cartilage formation, confirmed through gross morphology, histology, and collagen type II immunostaining. FibIGF1 could be a promising candidate for cartilage repair in the clinic.
Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Shark Skin Proteins
Authors: Bachar-Wikstrom Etty , Dhillon Braham , Gill Dhillon Navi , Abbo Lisa , Lindén Sara K. , Wikstrom Jakob D.
Published: November 2023

The mucus layer covering the skin of fish has several roles, including protection against pathogens and mechanical damage in which proteins play a key role. While proteins in the skin mucus layer of various common bony fish species have been explored, the proteins of shark skin mucus remain unexplored. In this pilot study, we examine the protein composition of the skin mucus in spiny dogfish sharks and chain catsharks through mass spectrometry (NanoLC-MS/MS). Overall, we identified 206 and 72 proteins in spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) and chain catsharks (Scyliorhinus retifer), respectively. Categorization showed that the proteins belonged to diverse biological processes and that most proteins were cellular albeit a significant minority were secreted, indicative of mucosal immune roles. The secreted proteins are reviewed in detail with emphasis on their immune potentials. Moreover, STRING protein–protein association network analysis showed that proteins of closely related shark species were more similar as compared to a more distantly related shark and a bony fish, although there were also significant overlaps. This study contributes to the growing field of molecular shark studies and provides a foundation for further research into the functional roles and potential human biomedical implications of shark skin mucus proteins.
Warm Cells, Hot Mitochondria: Achievements and Problems of Ultralocal Thermometry
Authors: Kruglov Alexey G. , Romshin Alexey M. , Nikiforova Anna B. , Plotnikova Arina , Vlasov Igor I.
Published: November 2023

Temperature is a crucial regulator of the rate and direction of biochemical reactions and cell processes. The recent data indicating the presence of local thermal gradients associated with the sites of high-rate thermogenesis, on the one hand, demonstrate the possibility for the existence of “thermal signaling” in a cell and, on the other, are criticized on the basis of thermodynamic calculations and models. Here, we review the main thermometric techniques and sensors developed for the determination of temperature inside living cells and diverse intracellular compartments. A comparative analysis is conducted of the results obtained using these methods for the cytosol, nucleus, endo-/sarcoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria, as well as their biological consistency. Special attention is given to the limitations, possible sources of errors and ambiguities of the sensor’s responses. The issue of biological temperature limits in cells and organelles is considered. It is concluded that the elaboration of experimental protocols for ultralocal temperature measurements that take into account both the characteristics of biological systems, as well as the properties and limitations of each type of sensor is of critical importance for the generation of reliable results and further progress in this field.
The Effect of Mesoporous Structure of the Support on the Oxidation of Dibenzothiophene
Authors: Nurwita Ardian , Trejda Maciej
Published: November 2023

A source of Brønsted acid centers, generated on the surface of two mesoporous silica supports of different structures (SBA-15 and MCF), was 3-(trihydroxysilyl)-1-propanesufonic acid (TPS). The materials obtained were characterized and applied as catalysts for the oxidative desulfurization of dibenzothiophene (DBT) with hydrogen peroxide as a model ODS (oxidative desulfurization) process. The properties of the materials were examined via nitrogen physisorption, XRD (X-ray Diffraction) and elemental analysis showing the preservation of the support structure after modification with organosilane species. Due to the aggregation of catalyst particles in the reaction mixture, the SBA-15 based catalyst was not very effective in DBT oxidation. Contrary, TPS/MCF catalyst exhibited a very good activity (almost total conversion of DBT after 1 h in optimized reaction conditions) and stability in dibenzothiophene oxidation in mild reaction conditions.
Scientometrics of Scientometrics Based on Web of Science Core Collection Data between 1992 and 2020
Authors: Liu Yang , He Hailong
Published: November 2023

Scientometrics is a quantitative and statistical approach that analyzes research on certain themes. It originated from information/library science but has been applied in various disciplines, including information science, library science, natural science, technology, engineering, medical sciences, and social sciences and humanities. Numerous scientometric studies have been carried out, but no study has attempted to investigate the overall research status of scientometrics. The objective of this study was to investigate the research status of scientometrics based on 16,225 publications archived in the Web of Science Core Collection between 1992 and 2020. The results show that there has been a marked increase in publications on scientometric studies over the past decades, with “Information Science Library Science” being the predominant discipline publishing scientometric studies, but scientometrics has been widely adopted in a variety of other disciplines (240 of 254 Web of Science categories). It was found that Web of Science, Vosviewer, and Scientometrics are the most utilized database, software, and journal for scientometric studies, respectively. The most productive author (Lutz Bornmann from the Max Planck Society, Germany), organization (University of Granada, Spain), and country (USA) are also identified. In addition, high-impact scientometric studies and the research landscape are analyzed through citation networks and the co-occurrence of keywords method.
Sex Differences in Mouse Cardiac Electrophysiology Revealed by Simultaneous Imaging of Excitation-Contraction Coupling
Authors: Emerson James I. , Ariel Pablo , Shi Wei , Conlon Frank L.
Published: November 2023

Males and females differ in the basic anatomy and physiology of the heart. Sex differences are evident in cardiac repolarization in humans; women have longer corrected QT and JT intervals. However, the molecular mechanisms that lead to these differences are incompletely understood. Here, we present that, like in humans, sex differences in QT and JT intervals exist in mouse models; female mice had longer corrected QT and JT intervals compared with age-matched males. To further understand the molecular underpinning of these sex differences, we developed a novel technology using fluorescent confocal microscopy that allows the simultaneous visualization of action potential, Ca2+ transients, and contractions in isolated cardiomyocytes at a high temporal resolution. From this approach, we uncovered that females at baseline have increased action potential duration, decreased Ca2+ release and reuptake rates, and decreased contraction and relaxation velocities compared with males. Additionally, males had a shorter overall time from action potential onset to peak contraction. In aggregate, our studies uncovered male and female differences in excitation-contraction coupling that account for differences observed in the EKG. Overall, a better understanding of sex differences in electrophysiology is essential for equitably treating cardiac disease.
External Stenting for Saphenous Vein Grafts in Coronary Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Soletti Giovanni Jr , Dimagli Arnaldo , Harik Lamia , Cancelli Gianmarco , Perezgrovas-Olaria Roberto , Alzghari Talal , Dell’Aquila Michele , Leith Jordan , Castagnini Sabrina , Lau Christopher , Girardi Leonard N. , Gaudino Mario
Published: November 2023

The external stenting of saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has been proven to reduce intimal hyperplasia (IH) in animal models, paving the way for human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to be conducted. Herein, we performed a study-level meta-analysis to assess the impact of the Venous External SupporT (VEST) device, an external stent, on the outcomes of SVGs. A systematic search was conducted to identify all RCTs comparing VEST-stented to non-stented SVGs in patients undergoing CABG. The primary outcome was graft occlusion. The main secondary outcomes were repeat revascularization, SVG IH area, and intimal-medial thickness. Two RCTs totaling 407 patients were included. At a mean follow-up of 1.5 years, there was no difference in graft occlusion between groups (incidence rate ratio: 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80–1.53). The rate of repeat revascularization was also similar (odds ratio: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.27–1.64). The IH area (standardized mean difference (SMD): −0.45; 95% CI: −0.79 to −0.10) and intimal-medial thickness (SMD: −0.50; 95% CI: −0.90 to −0.10) were significantly reduced in the VEST group. Our findings show that significant reductions in the IH area and the intimal-medial thickness in VEST-stented SVGs do not currently translate into a lesser need for repeat revascularization or less graft occlusion events compared to non-stented SVGs at 1.5 years after CABG.
The Impact of Alcohol Consumption Pattern on Liver Fibrosis in Asymptomatic Patients
Authors: Minea Horia , Singeap Ana-Maria , Sfarti Catalin Victor , Girleanu Irina , Chiriac Stefan , Muzica Cristina , Cuciureanu Tudor , Petrea Oana Cristina , Huiban Laura , Zenovia Sebastian , Nastasa Robert , Rotaru Adrian , Stafie Remus , Stratina Ermina , Cojocariu Camelia , Stanciu Carol , Trifan Anca
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Alcohol consumption (AC) represents a widespread cause of liver diseases affecting 10–20% of the population. The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between advanced liver fibrosis (ALF) measured by transient elastography (TE), laboratory parameters, and the amount of AC depending on non-modifiable risk factors such as age and gender. Methods: We examined 689 patients with an average age of 49.32 ± 14.31 years, 72.9% males, without liver pathology, who admitted a moderate/high consumption (female ≤ 7 versus > 7 drinks/week; male ≤ 14 versus > 14 drinks/week) for at least five years. The fibrosis level was adjusted according to transaminase levels. Predictive factors were established using univariate regression analysis. Results: ALF (≥F3) was detected in 19.30% of subjects, predominantly males (14.1%) and patients over 55 years (12.5%). Excessive consumption of distilled spirits is associated with ALF in females (OR = 4.5), males (OR = 6.43) and patients over 55 years (OR = 3.73). A particularity highlighted in both genders, regardless of the age group, was the negative correlation between the decrease in the number of platelets, the albumin concentration, and the appearance of AFL. Conclusions: Screening using TE represents an approach for early detection of ALF in asymptomatic populations and the development of a risk stratification scheme.
Exploring the Effect of Natural Ficus benghalensis Tree Aerial Root Powder on the Mechanical Properties of Basalt-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Nayak Suhas Yeshwant , Hiremath Anupama , Bolar Gururaj , Punekar Atharva Sachin , Prakash Shivam , Shetty Hrithik , Jaideep Jeppu Pramod
Published: November 2023

Banyan aerial root (BAR) powder was prepared from the aerial roots of a Banyan tree to modify epoxy resin using a magnetic stirrer. The modification was performed at different proportions of BAR powder, namely, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%, by weight. Composites were fabricated with modified and unmodified resins using a combination of hand lay-up and compression molding processes to evaluate the influence of BAR powders on their mechanical properties. The test results showed that BAR powder incorporation had a positive influence on the mechanical properties of the composites, as an increase in tensile, flexural, and impact strengths was observed, with the highest tensile and flexural properties of 407.81 MPa and 339 MPa, respectively, seen in composites with 4% BAR and the highest impact strength 194.02 kJ/m2 observed in the specimen with 6% BAR powder. Though the properties saw a dipping trend at higher weight proportions of the particulate, they were still significantly higher than the properties of laminates prepared with unmodified resin. Gravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) on BAR powders confirmed cellulose to be the major constituent, followed by lignin and hemicellulose. A scanning electron microscope was used for studying the failure mechanisms of the laminates.
Study of Mechanical Properties of Three-Dimensional Framed Plate Protective Structures with Negative Poisson’s Ratio
Authors: Lin Weijun , Li Mengzhen , Li Pu , Li Qianning , Chen Wei
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the negative Poisson’s ratio and rigidity of a protective structure are improved to allow the structure to exert a negative Poisson’s ratio effect in multiple directions and to enhance the structural load-carrying capacity. Therefore, a 3D framed plate honeycomb is designed on the basis of a traditional 2D negative Poisson’s ratio honeycomb. The Poisson’s ratio and modulus of elasticity are derived, and the equivalent mechanics model (EMM) of a 3D framed plate protective structure is established by combining bending deformation, shear deformation, and compression deformation. To verify the validity of the equivalent mechanics model (EMM), a compression test and numerical simulation study are carried out by combining 3D printing technology and numerical simulation methods. In addition, the effects of structural parameters on the modulus of elasticity, negative Poisson’s ratio, and other mechanical properties are discussed. The results show that, under vertical loading, the equivalent Poisson’s ratio and the modulus of elasticity of the cell elements decrease with the increase in the ratios of the lengths of the cell element walls in the upper and lower planes to the length of the diagonal cell element in the concave direction. In addition, it is shown that the elastic modulus increases with increasing concave angle and thickness. Moreover, under lateral loading, the equivalent Poisson’s ratio of the cell elements increases with the ratios of the lengths of the upper and lower planar cell element walls to the length of the diagonal cell element walls, with the angle of concavity and with the thickness of the plate frame, while the modulus of elasticity of the cell elements exhibits the opposite trend and decreases with the thickness of the framed plate structure.
The Influence of Adhesive Strategy, Type of Dental Composite, and Polishing Time on Marginal Gap Formation in Class I-like Cavities
Authors: Barbosa Marianna Pires , Rabello Tiago Braga , Silva Eduardo Moreira da
Published: November 2023

Even after more than six decades of dental composite invention (1962), there is still controversial information about the time in which composite restorations should be polished in order to avoid marginal gap formation at the tooth–composite interface. The aim of the present study was to analyze the influence of adhesive strategy, the type of dental composite, and polishing time on marginal gap formation (%MG) at the tooth–composite interface. Class I-like cavities were hybridized with a universal adhesive system (Single Bond Universal) through two strategies: selective enamel etching (SEE) or self-etching mode (SEM). Cavities were filled with two types of dental composites: nanofilled (Z350) or bulk fill (Filtek One Bulk Fill—ONE), and polishing was performed immediately or delayed for 7 days (n = 5). %MG was evaluated by using a 3D laser confocal microscope. As flexural modulus (FM) and degree of conversion (DC%) are determinants of marginal integrity in dental composite restorations, these properties were evaluated for both composites. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test (α = 0.05). Cavities hybridized following the SEE strategy presented lower %MG (p < 0.05). Z350 showed higher %MG than ONE (p < 0.05). There was no difference in %MG between the polishing times when the SEE strategy was used (p > 0.05). Z350 presented higher FM than ONE (p < 0.05). DC% was found to be not significant (p > 0.05). The results suggest that selective enamel etching (SEE) is a better strategy for producing less %MG in composite restorations with enamel margins irrespective of the time in which the restoration is polished.
Effect of Composition on the Physicochemical Properties of Cross-Linked Poly(sodium acrylate)/Sodium Silicate Hydrogels
Authors: Mastalska-Popławska Joanna , Wójcik Łukasz , Izak Piotr , Konaszewski Damian
Published: November 2023

The paper presents the results of research on the influence of the components of composition on the physicochemical properties of cross-linked poly(sodium acrylate)/sodium silicate hydrogels. The results of the rheological measurements showed that an increasing share of polyacrylate in the sample causes a shift of the cross-over point towards longer times and improves mechanical properties. In turn, increasing the share of sodium silicate has a positive effect on extending the fire insulation time (I). TG/DSC analysis indicated that if the sample contained more than 50 wt.% of polymer, the thermal decomposition was a three-stage process, while if the sample contained more water glass, the decomposition was two stage. UV-Vis measurements and SEM analysis confirmed, inter alia, that increasing the share of polyacrylate causes improvement of the optical parameters and homogeneity of the tested hydrogels. The presented results suggest that by controlling the share of the main components of the silicate–polymer hydrogels, it is possible to control their mechanical, optical and thermal properties. Multiplication of the layers or increasing their thickness improves their fire-retardant properties.
Advances in Fiber-Based Wearable Sensors for Personal Digital Health Monitoring
Authors: Liu Jingge , Zhang Junze , Liu Jing , Sun Weiwei , Li Weiqiang , Shen Hongqiang , Wang Lingxiao , Li Gang
Published: November 2023

With the continuous growth of the global economy, an increasing concern has emerged among individuals with regard to personal digital health. Smart fiber-based sensors meet people’s demands for wearable devices with the advantages of excellent skin-friendliness and breathability, enabling efficient and prompt monitoring of personal digital health signals in daily life. Furthermore, by integrating machine learning and big data analysis techniques, a closed-loop system can be established for personal digital health, covering data collection, data analysis, as well as medical diagnosis and treatment. Herein, we provide a review of the recent research progress on fiber-based wearable sensors for personal digital health. Firstly, a brief introduction is provided to demonstrate the importance of fiber-based wearable sensors in personal digital health. Then, the monitoring of biophysical signals through fiber-based sensors is described, and they are classified based on different sensing principles in biophysical signal monitoring (resistive, capacitive, piezoelectric, triboelectric, magnetoelastic, and thermoelectric). After that, the fiber-based biochemical signal sensors are described through the classification of monitoring targets (biofluids and respiratory gases). Finally, a summary is presented on the application prospects and the prevailing challenges of fiber-based sensors, aiming to implement their future role in constructing personal digital health networks.
A New Approach for the Synthesis of 2,3,4а,6,7,8а,9,10-Octaaza-4,8-dioxo-3,4,4a,7,8,8а,9,9a,10,10а-decahydroanthracene and High-Energy Performance Characterization of Its Dinitramide Salt
Authors: Glukhacheva Vera S. , Il’yasov Sergey G. , Il’yasov Dmitri S. , Zhukov Egor E. , Eltsov Ilia V. , Nefedov Andrey A.
Published: November 2023

A simple, one-pot regioselective method for the synthesis of a high-nitrogen tricycle, 2,3,4а,6,7,8а,9,10-octaaza-4,8-dioxo-3,4,4a,7,8,8а,9,9a,10,10а-decahydroanthracene, with a yield of 27% was developed on a starting urea basis as a result of studies focused on finding new, more efficient approaches to the synthesis of high-energy derivatives of dinitramic acid (DNA). This tricycle was further treated to furnish 2,3,4а,6,7,8а,9,10-octaaza-4,8-dioxo-3,4,4a,7,8,8а,9a,10а-octohydroanthracene-9,10-ion-bis(dinitramide). The resultant salt of dinitramic acid exhibited inhibitory properties towards the burning rate of pyrotechnic compositions, reducing it by 30%, and possessed good thermal stability due to a high decomposition temperature above 260 °C and a low sensitivity to mechanical stimuli. The structural features of the new tricycle-based dinitramide salt were characterized via 2D NMR spectroscopy and double-focusing sector mass spectrometry (DFS).
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of In Situ Synthesized Metastable β Titanium Alloy Composite from Low-Cost Elemental Powders
Authors: Zyguła Krystian , Mrotzek Tino , Lypchanskyi Oleksandr , Zientara Dariusz , Gude Maik , Prahl Ulrich , Wojtaszek Marek
Published: November 2023

The titanium matrix composite was produced through a hot compaction process at 1250 °C using the mixture of elemental powders with chemical composition of Ti-5Al-5Mo-5V-3Cr and 2 wt.% addition of boron carbide. The phase analysis via X-ray diffraction method was performed to confirm the occurrence of an in situ reaction between boron carbide and titanium. Then, the wide-ranging microstructural analysis was performed using optical microscopy as well as scanning electron microscopy along with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction. Based on this investigation, it was possible to describe the diffusion behavior during hot compaction and possible precipitation capabilities of TiC and TiB phases. Tensile and compression tests were conducted to determine the strength properties. The investigated composite has an ultimate tensile strength of about 910 ± 13 MPa with elongation of 10.9 ± 1.9% and compressive strength of 1744 ± 20 MPa with deformation of 10.5 ± 0.2%. Observation of the fracture surface allowed us to determine the dominant failure mechanism, which was crack propagation from the reaction layer surrounding remaining boron carbide particle, through the titanium alloy matrix. The study summarizes the process of producing an in situ titanium matrix composite from elemental powders and B4C additives and emphasizes the importance of element diffusion and reaction layer formation, which contributes to the strength properties of the material.
Experimental Validation of a Driver Monitoring System
Authors: Garrosa María , Ceccarelli Marco , Díaz Vicente , Russo Matteo
Published: November 2023

This paper presents an analysis of the risk of neck injury in vehicle occupants as a consequence of an impact. A review of the formulation of indexes that are used in the assessment and investigation of neck injury risk is discussed with the aim of providing a new, more appropriate index using suitable sensorized equipment. An experimental analysis is proposed with a new driver monitoring device using low-cost sensors. The system consists of wearable units for the head, neck, and torso where inertial measurement sensors (IMU) are installed to record data concerning the occupant’s head, neck, and torso accelerations while the vehicle moves. Two laser infrared distance sensors are also installed on the vehicle’s steering wheel to record the position data of the head and neck, as well as an additional IMU for vehicle acceleration values. To validate both the device and the new index, experiments are designed in which different sensorized volunteers reproduce an emergency braking maneuver with an instrumented vehicle at speeds of 10, 20, and 30 km/h before the beginning of any braking action. The neck is particularly sensitive to sudden changes in acceleration, so a sudden braking maneuver is enough to constitute a potential risk of cervical spine injury. During the experiments, large accelerations and displacements were recorded as the test speed increased. The largest accelerations were obtained in the experimental test at a speed of 30 km/h with values of 19.17, 9.57, 9.28, and 5.09 m/s2 in the head, torso, neck, and vehicle, respectively. In the same experiment, the largest displacement of the head was 0.33 m and that of the neck was 0.27 m. Experimental results have verified that the designed device can be effectively used to characterize the biomechanical response of the neck in car impacts. The new index is also able to quantify a neck injury risk by taking into account the dynamics of a vehicle and the kinematics of the occupant’s head, neck, and torso. The numerical value of the new index is inversely proportional to the acceleration experienced by the vehicle occupant, so that small values indicate risky conditions.
Vibration Analysis for Fault Diagnosis in Induction Motors Using One-Dimensional Dilated Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Liu Xiaopeng , Hong Jianfeng , Zhao Kang , Sun Bingxiang , Zhang Weige , Jiang Jiuchun
Published: November 2023

Motor faults not only damage the motor body but also affect the entire production system. When the motor runs in a steady state, the characteristic frequency of the fault current is close to the fundamental frequency, so it is difficult to effectively extract the fault current components, such as the broken rotor bar. In this paper, according to the characteristics of electromagnetic force and vibration, when the rotor eccentricity and the broken bar occur, the vibration signal is used to analyze and diagnose the fault. Firstly, the frequency, order, and amplitude characteristics of electromagnetic force under rotor eccentricity and broken bar fault are analyzed. Then, the fault vibration acceleration value collected by a one-dimensional dilated convolution pair is extracted, and the SeLU activation function and residual connection are introduced to solve the problem of gradient disappearance and network degradation, and the fault motor model is established by combining average ensemble learning and SoftMax multi-classifier. Finally, experiments of normal rotor eccentricity and broken bar faults are carried out on 4-pole asynchronous motors. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the proposed method for motor fault detection can reach 99%, which meets the requirements of fault motor detection and is helpful for further application.
An Experimental Investigation into the Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Gasoline Direct Injection Engine Fueled with Isopropanol Gasoline Blends
Authors: Iliev Simeon , Ivanov Zdravko , Dimitrov Radostin , Mihaylov Veselin , Ivanov Daniel , Stoyanov Stoyan , Atanasova Slavena
Published: November 2023

Propanol isomers, which are oxygen-rich fuels, possess superior octane ratings and energy density in comparison to methanol and ethanol. Recently, due to advancements in fermentation techniques, these propanol isomers have garnered increased interest as additives for engines. They are being explored to decrease emissions and reduce the usage of conventional fossil fuels. This study delves into this emerging field. One of the alternatives is the use of alcohol fuels in their pure state or as additives to traditional fuels. Alcohols, due to their higher volumetric energy density, are better fuels for spark ignition engines than hydrogen and biogas. Alcohol-blended fuels or alcohol fuels in their pure state may be used in gasoline engines to reduce exhaust emissions. The current research emphasizes the effect of isopropanol gasoline blends on the performance and emissions characteristics of a gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine. This investigation was conducted with different blends of isopropanol and gasoline (by volume: 10% isopropanol [IP10], 20% isopropanol [IP10], 30% isopropanol [IP30], 40% isopropanol [IP40], and 50% isopropanol [IP50]). The reviewed results showed that with increasing isopropanol in the fuel blends, engine brake power increased while BSFC decreased. In terms of emissions, with the increase in isopropanol in the fuel blends, CO and HC emissions decreased while CO2 and NOx emissions increased.
Symmetric Polynomials in Free Associative Algebras—II
Authors: Boumova Silvia , Drensky Vesselin , Dzhundrekov Deyan , Kassabov Martin
Published: November 2023

Let K⟨Xd⟩ be the free associative algebra of rank d≥2 over a field, K. In 1936, Wolf proved that the algebra of symmetric polynomials K⟨Xd⟩Sym(d) is infinitely generated. In 1984 Koryukin equipped the homogeneous component of degree n of K⟨Xd⟩ with the additional action of Sym(n) by permuting the positions of the variables. He proved finite generation with respect to this additional action for the algebra of invariants K⟨Xd⟩G of every reductive group, G. In the first part of the present paper, we established that, over a field of characteristic 0 or of characteristic p>d, the algebra K⟨Xd⟩Sym(d) with the action of Koryukin is generated by (noncommutative version of) the elementary symmetric polynomials. Now we prove that if the field, K, is of positive characteristic at most d then the algebra K⟨Xd⟩Sym(d), taking into account that Koryukin’s action is infinitely generated, describe a minimal generating set.
Pricing Analysis for Railway Multi-Ride Tickets: An Optimization Approach for Uncertain Demand within an Agreed Time Limit
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhu Jiafa
Published: November 2023

A multi-ride ticket with a certain period of validity and maximum number of uses has been introduced into railway transport. The key to pricing the railway multi-ride ticket is determining the uncertain demand within an agreed time limit. Unfortunately, limited studies have focused on this pricing issue. Therefore, we focused on railway multi-ride ticket pricing optimization in two different scenarios: a single train with multiple stops and multiple trains with multiple stops. First, the expected coefficient and incentive coefficient were introduced to describe the decision-making process for multi-ride tickets and simulate the change in passengers’ travel behavior after purchasing multi-ride tickets. Then, passenger demand functions based on a normal distribution were developed to establish the pricing models with maximized revenue. Finally, we adopted improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) to solve the models. Two numerical cases were used to verify the models separately for two application scenarios. The results revealed that the multi-ride ticket pricing problem is not a simple summation of pricing for one-time travel of passengers. In the situation of a single train with multiple stops, the expected coefficient is positively related to the total income, whereas the incentive coefficient has limited influence on the optimal price and total revenue. Furthermore, a multi-ride ticket should allow the passenger to take trains eight times at most in 8 days at the price of CNY 4922 (abbreviated as 4922 (8, 8)) rather than 3785 (8, 6). Railway enterprises should cautiously limit the scope of trains available for multi-ride tickets in the case of multiple trains with multiple stops.
Local and Parallel Stabilized Finite Element Methods Based on the Lowest Equal-Order Elements for the Stokes–Darcy Model
Authors: Han Jing , Du Guangzhi
Published: November 2023

In this article, two kinds of local and parallel stabilized finite element methods based upon two grid discretizations are proposed and investigated for the Stokes–Darcy model. The lowest equal-order finite element pairs (P1-P1-P1) are taken into account to approximate the velocity, pressure, and piezometric head, respectively. To circumvent the inf-sup condition, the stabilized term is chosen as the difference between a consistent and an under-integrated mass matrix. The proposed algorithms consist of approximating the low-frequency component on the global coarse grid and the high-frequency component on the local fine grid and assembling them to obtain the final approximation. To obtain a global continuous solution, the technique tool of the partition of unity is used. A rigorous theoretical analysis for the algorithms was conducted and numerical experiments were carried out to indicate the validity and efficiency of the algorithms.
Advanced Analysis of Electrodermal Activity Measures to Detect the Onset of ON State in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Barrachina-Fernández Mercedes , Valenzuela-López Laura , Moreno-Verdú Marcos , Sánchez-Cuesta Francisco José , González-Zamorano Yeray , Romero Juan Pablo , Sánchez-Ávila Carmen
Published: November 2023

Background: Electrodermal activity (EDA) serves as a prominent biosignal for assessing sympathetic activation across various scenarios. Prior research has suggested a connection between EDA and fluctuations in Parkinson’s disease (PD), but its precise utility in reliably detecting these fluctuations has remained unexplored. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of both basic and advanced analyses of EDA changes in identifying the transition to the ON state following dopaminergic medication administration in individuals with PD. Methods: In this observational study, 19 individuals with PD were enrolled. EDA was continuously recorded using the Empatica E4 device, worn on the wrist, during the transition from the OFF state to the ON state following levodopa intake. The raw EDA signal underwent preprocessing and evaluation through three distinct approaches. A logistic regression model was constructed to assess the significance of variables predicting the ON/OFF state, and support vector machine (SVM) models along with various Neural Network (NN) configurations were developed for accurate state prediction. Results: Differences were identified between the ON and OFF states in both the time and frequency domains, as well as through the utilization of convex optimization techniques. SVM and NN models demonstrated highly promising results in effectively distinguishing between the OFF and ON states. Conclusions: Evaluating sympathetic activation changes via EDA measures holds substantial promise for detecting non-motor fluctuations in PD. The SVM algorithm, in particular, yields precise outcomes for predicting these non-motor fluctuation states.
A Smart Contract Vulnerability Detection Method Based on Multimodal Feature Fusion and Deep Learning
Authors: Li Jinggang , Lu Gehao , Gao Yulian , Gao Feng
Published: November 2023

With the proliferation of blockchain technology in decentralized applications like decentralized finance and supply chain and identity management, smart contracts operating on a blockchain frequently encounter security issues such as reentrancy vulnerabilities, timestamp dependency vulnerabilities, tx.origin vulnerabilities, and integer overflow vulnerabilities. These security concerns pose a significant risk of causing substantial losses to user accounts. Consequently, the detection of vulnerabilities in smart contracts has become a prominent area of research. Existing research exhibits limitations, including low detection accuracy in traditional smart contract vulnerability detection approaches and the tendency of deep learning-based solutions to focus on a single type of vulnerability. To address these constraints, this paper introduces a smart contract vulnerability detection method founded on multimodal feature fusion. This method adopts a multimodal perspective to extract three modal features from the lifecycle of smart contracts, leveraging both static and dynamic features comprehensively. Through deep learning models like Graph Convolutional Networks (GCNs) and bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory networks (bi-LSTMs), effective detection of vulnerabilities in smart contracts is achieved. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method attains detection accuracies of 85.73% for reentrancy vulnerabilities, 85.41% for timestamp dependency vulnerabilities, 83.58% for tx.origin vulnerabilities, and 90.96% for integer Overflow vulnerabilities. Furthermore, ablation experiments confirm the efficacy of the newly introduced modal features, highlighting the significance of fusing dynamic and static features in enhancing detection accuracy.
The MA Helix Is Important for Receptor Assembly and Function in the α4β2 nACh Receptor
Authors: Fricska Dorottya I. , Mesoy Susanne M. , Lummis Sarah C. R.
Published: November 2023

Pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGICs) are expressed throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems of vertebrates and modulate many aspects of human health and disease. Recent structural and computational data indicate that cation-selective pLGICs contain a long helical extension (MA) of one of the transmembrane helices. The MA helix has been shown to affect both the membrane expression of, and ion conductance levels through, these pLGICs. Here we probe the functional effects of 68 mutations in the MA region of the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR), using a voltage-sensitive membrane dye and radioligand binding to measure receptor function and expression/assembly. We found seven alanine mutations in a stretch of the MA helix that prevent correct receptor folding and/or assembly, as evidenced by the lack of both function and ligand binding. A further two alanine mutations resulted in receptors that were capable of binding ligand but showed no functional response, and we propose that, in these mutants, ligand binding is insufficient to trigger channel opening. The data clarify the effect of the MA helix, and as the effects of some of our mutations in the α4β2 nAChR differ from the effects of equivalent mutations in other cation-selective pLGICs, we suggest that residues in the MA helix may play subtly different roles in different receptors.
The Activation Energy of Viscous Flow and Liquid–Liquid Structure Transition in Co-B Alloys
Authors: Starodubtsev Yuri N. , Tsepelev Vladimir S. , Konashkov Viktor V. , Tsepeleva Nadezhda P.
Published: November 2023

The temperature dependences of the kinematic viscosity during heating and cooling have been investigated in Co-B melts with a boron content of up to 30.8 at. A liquid–liquid structural transition was found, which is accompanied by an increase in the activation energy and cluster size, as well as a significant decrease in the density of the melt. The liquid–liquid structural transition was associated with the formation of clusters with a short-range order of Co23B6 in the intermediate temperature region. At low and high temperatures, clusters of the order of an atomic size are active participants in the viscous flow. It was shown that with an increase in the cluster size, the activation energy increases and the viscosity of melts decreases. The formation of large Co23B6 clusters during the cooling of melt with low boron content leads to undercooling and the appearance of the transition temperature region with high activation energy, although this region does not exist during the heating stage.
Metabolomics to Understand Alterations Induced by Physical Activity during Pregnancy
Authors: da Silva Ana Carolina Rosa , Yadegari Anahita , Tzaneva Velislava , Vasanthan Tarushika , Laketic Katarina , Shearer Jane , Bainbridge Shannon A. , Harris Cory , Adamo Kristi B.
Published: November 2023

Physical activity (PA) and exercise have been associated with a reduced risk of cancer, obesity, and diabetes. In the context of pregnancy, maintaining an active lifestyle has been shown to decrease gestational weight gain (GWG) and lower the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), hypertension, and macrosomia in offspring. The main pathways activated by PA include BCAAs, lipids, and bile acid metabolism, thereby improving insulin resistance in pregnant individuals. Despite these known benefits, the underlying metabolites and biological mechanisms affected by PA remain poorly understood, highlighting the need for further investigation. Metabolomics, a comprehensive study of metabolite classes, offers valuable insights into the widespread metabolic changes induced by PA. This narrative review focuses on PA metabolomics research using different analytical platforms to analyze pregnant individuals. Existing studies support the hypothesis that exercise behaviour can influence the metabolism of different populations, including pregnant individuals and their offspring. While PA has shown considerable promise in maintaining metabolic health in non-pregnant populations, our comprehension of metabolic changes in the context of a healthy pregnancy remains limited. As a result, further investigation is necessary to clarify the metabolic impact of PA within this unique group, often excluded from physiological research.