bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Impact on Harmful Species Pseudo-nitzschia spp. and Phaeocystis globosa Phenology and Niche
Authors: Karasiewicz Stéphane , Lefebvre Alain
Published: January 2022

Global environmental change modifies the phytoplankton community, which leads to variations in their phenology and potentially causes a temporal mismatch between primary producers and consumers. In parallel, phytoplankton community change can favor the appearance of harmful species, which makes the understanding of the mechanisms involved in structuring phytoplankton ecological niches paramount for preventing future risk. In this study, we aimed to assess for the first time the relationship between environmental conditions, phenology and niche ecology of harmful species Phaeocystis globosa and the complex Pseudo-nitzschia along the French coast of the eastern English Channel. A new method of bloom detection within a time-series was developed, which allowed the characterization of 363 blooms by 22 phenological variables over 11 stations from 1998 to 2019. The pairwise quantification of asymmetric dependencies between the phenological variables revealed the implication of different mechanisms, common and distinct between the taxa studied. A PERMANOVA helped to reveal the importance of seasonal change in the environmental and community variables. The Outlying Mean and the Within Outlying Mean indexes allowed us to position the harmful taxa niche among the rest of community and quantify how their respective phenology impacted the dynamic of their subniches. We also discussed the possible hypothesis involved and the perspective of predictive models.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of JNE in 2021
Authors:   JNE Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Soil Fungal Community Composition and Diversity of Culturable Endophytic Fungi from Plant Roots in the Reclaimed Area of the Eastern Coast of China
Authors: Zhong Fei , Fan Xinlei , Ji Wenhui , Hai Zhixing , Hu Naican , Li Xintong , Liu Guoyuan , Yu Chunmei , Chen Yanhong , Lian Bolin , Wei Hui , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2022

As an important resource for screening microbial strains capable of conferring stress tolerance in plants, the fungal community associated with the plants grown in stressful environments has received great attention. In this study, high-throughput sequencing was employed to study the rhizosphere fungal community in the reclaimed area (i.e., sites F, H, and T) of the eastern coast of China. Moreover, endophytic fungi from the root of six plant species colonizing the investigated sites were isolated and identified. The differences in soil physicochemical parameters, fungal diversity, and community structure were detected among the sampling sites and between the seasons. Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi (e.g., genera Tuber and Geopora) were dominant at site F, which was characterized by high soil total carbon (SC) and total nitrogen (SN) contents and low soil electrical conductivity (EC) value. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, including genera Glomus, Rhizophagus, and Entrophospora were dominant at sites H (winter), H (summer), and T (summer), respectively. The positive relationship between the EC value and the abundance of genus Glomus indicated the ability of this AM fungus to protect plants against the salt stress. Endophytic fungi at sites F (Aspergillus and Tetracladium), H (Nigrospora), and T (Nigrospora, Coniochaeta and Zopfiella) were recognized as the biomarkers or keystone taxa, among which only genus Aspergillus was isolated from the plant roots. The aforementioned AM fungi and endophytic fungi could contribute to the promotion of plant growth in the newly reclaimed land.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of JPM in 2021
Authors:   JPM Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Uncoupled Wi-Fi Body CoM Acceleration for the Analysis of Lightweight Glass Slabs under Random Walks
Authors: Bedon Chiara , Noè Salvatore
Published: January 2022

The vibration serviceability assessment of slender and/or lightweight pedestrian systems with high sensitivity to walk-induced effects is rather challenging. In the same way, laminated glass (LG) is used in buildings for structural applications but still represents a not well known and vulnerable material. For pedestrian LG systems, the characterization of dynamic and mechanical parameters may require specific procedures which do not adapt from other constructional typologies. Among others, the mass of pedestrians is generally high compared with LG structural components. Size and restraints in LG may also lead to more pronounced vibration effects. For existing LG systems, moreover, knowledge of residual capacity may be rather difficult. In this paper, an original uncoupled experimental investigation is proposed to numerically address the accuracy and potential of low-cost laboratory body measures for vibration analysis of LG slabs to support (or even replace) field tests or more complex calculation approaches. A total of 40 experimental records are taken into account, in the form of body center of mass (CoM) acceleration time histories for an adult volunteer walking on a rigid concrete slab and equipped with a single high-precision, Wi-Fi triaxial sensor based on micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. Body CoM records are elaborated and used as input for finite element (FE) nonlinear dynamic analysis in the time domain (WL1) of two LG slab configurations (GS1 and GS2) with identical geometry but different boundaries. A third reinforced concrete slab of literature (CS3) is also investigated for further assessment. Numerical parametric results from a total of 120 WL1-based nonlinear dynamic analyses are compared with FE numerical results based on a conventional deterministic approach (WL2) to describe walk-induced effects, as well as towards past field experiments (GS2). The accuracy and potential of the proposed procedure are discussed.
Enhancing Urban Biodiversity: A Theory of Planned Behavior Study of the Factors Influencing Real Estate Actors’ Intention to Use Nature-Inclusive Design and Construction Concepts
Authors: van Haaster-de Winter Mariët A. , Dijkshoorn-Dekker Marijke W. C. , Mattijssen Thomas J. M. , Polman Nico B. P.
Published: January 2022

This paper presents the results of an exploration into the adoption of biodiversity-friendly practices by the real estate sector, by researching which factors determine companies’ intentions to use nature-inclusive design and construction concepts (NID). NID represents practices in which nature and building are inextricably linked when (re)designing building projects. We applied the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), a well-known framework for studying behavior. A telephone survey was carried out among 103 employees at different types of companies in the real estate sector. The findings showed that attitude, social norms, and perceived behavioral control are all significant explanatory variables for the intention of using NID. Perceived behavioral control is the strongest predictor. In addition, interest in NID strengthens the predictive value of perceived behavioral control. The empirical findings in this study serve as a first attempt to provide insights into the determinants of behavior in favor of using NID and, by extension, looking for drivers for change. The study was carried out in the Netherlands, but the results may be applicable or interesting to other countries as well when looking for opportunities to enhance biodiversity in urban areas or considering how the real estate sector could give substance to their vital role in spatial developments.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Lubricants in 2021
Authors:   Lubricants Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
N,N′-Diarylformamidine Dithiocarbamate Ag(I) Cluster and Coordination Polymer
Authors: Oladipo Segun D. , Omondi Bernard
Published: January 2022

An Ag(I)formamidine cluster Ag6L16 (1) and an Ag(I)formamidine coordination polymer Ag7(L2)2 2 (L1 = N,N′-bis(2,6-disopropylphenyl) formamidine dithiocarbamate and L2 = N,N′-mesityl formamidine dithiocarbamate) have been synthesized from the reactions of L1 and L2 with AgNO3 respectively. The complexes were characterized using spectroscopic and analytical methods, including single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In the structure of 1, a six vertex distorted square bi-pyramidal octahedron is formed from an Ag6 core. The N,N′-bis(2,6-disopropylphenyl) formamidine dithiocarbamate ligands stabilize this core through two main –CS2 bridging modes giving a propeller like structure. In the structure of 2, each of the two Ag(I) centers are bridged by two N,N′-mesityl formamidine dithiocarbamate ligands forming 8-member Ag2(CS2)2 metallacycles with an inversion center in the middle of the Ag—Ag argentophilic bond. The metallacycles are connected through Ag—S bonds forming ribbons in the crystallographic a-axis. The Ag(I) centers are coordinated to two N,N′-mesitylformamidine dithiocarbamates through the dithiocarbamate S atoms. The thermal decomposition of complexes 1 and 2 had similar thermograms with one major weight loss activity and the formation of elemental silver particles thereafter.
Critical Current Density and Meissner Effect of Smart Meta-Superconductor MgB2 and Bi(Pb)SrCaCuO
Authors: Chen Honggang , Li Yongbo , Qi Yao , Wang Mingzhong , Zou Hongyan , Zhao Xiaopeng
Published: January 2022

The smart meta-superconductor MgB2 and Bi(Pb)SrCaCuO increase the superconducting transition temperature (TC), but the changes in the transport critical current density (JC) and Meissner effect are still unknown. Here, we investigated the JC and Meissner effect of smart meta-superconductor MgB2 and Bi(Pb)SrCaCuO. The use of the standard four-probe method shows that Y2O3:Eu3+ and Y2O3:Eu3++Ag inhomogeneous phase significantly increase the JC, and JC decreases to a minimum value at a higher temperature. The Meissner effect was measured by direct current magnetization. The doping of Y2O3:Eu3+ and Y2O3:Eu3++Ag luminescent inhomogeneous phase causes a Meissner effect of MgB2 and Bi(Pb)SrCaCuO at a higher temperature, while the non-luminescent dopant reduces the temperature at which samples have Meissner effect. The introduction of luminescent inhomogeneous phase in conventional MgB2 and copper oxide high-temperature Bi(Pb)SrCaCuO superconductor increases the TC and JC, and Meissner effect is exerted at higher temperature. Therefore, smart meta-superconductivity is suitable for conventional and copper oxide high-temperature superconductors.
Preparation and Comprehensive Properties of a High-Radiation-Shielding UHPC by Using Magnetite Fine Aggregate
Authors: Han Jianjun , Xi Zhuangmin , Yu Rui , Guan Junfeng , Lv Yajun , Li Guo
Published: January 2022

Nuclear technology benefits humans, but it also produces nuclear radiation that harms human health and the environment. Based on the modified Andreasen and Andersen particle packing model for achieving a densely compacted cementitious matrix, a new magnetite ultra-high-performance concrete (MUHPC) was designed using magnetite fine aggregate as a substitute for river sands with 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% replacement ratios. The comprehensive properties of the developed MUHPC were tested and evaluated. These properties were fluidity, static and dynamic compressive strengths, high-temperature performance, antiradiation behaviors, hydration products, and micropore structures. Experimental results indicate that the developed MUHPC has high work performance and static and dynamic mechanical properties. The gamma ray shielding performance of MUHPC substantially improves with increased magnetite fine aggregate. Corresponding with 100% magnetite fine aggregate substitution, the linear attenuation coefficient of MUHPC is enhanced by 56.8% compared with that of ordinary concrete. Magnetite addition does not change the type of cement hydration products but improves the micropore structures of MUHPC and effectively reduces its total porosity and average pore diameter, thereby contributing to its mechanical and radiation shielding properties. The compressive strength and linear attenuation coefficient of the MUHPC can reach 150 MPa and 0.2 cm−1, respectively. In addition, the MUHPC also exhibits superior mechanical and radiation shielding performance at elevated temperatures (<400 °C). Finally, high strength and antiradiation performance support the use of MUHPC in radiation protection materials in the future.
Histological Processing of CAD/CAM Titanium Scaffold after Long-Term Failure in Cranioplasty
Authors: Fischer Heilwig , Steffen Claudius , Schmidt-Bleek Katharina , Duda Georg N. , Heiland Max , Rendenbach Carsten , Raguse Jan-Dirk
Published: January 2022

Cranioplasty is a frequently performed procedure after craniectomy and includes several techniques with different materials. Due to high overall complication rates, alloplastic implants are removed in many cases. Lack of implant material osseointegration is often assumed as a reason for failure, but no study has proven this in cranioplasty. This study histologically evaluates the osteointegration of a computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) titanium scaffold with an open mesh structure used for cranioplasty. A CAD/CAM titanium scaffold was removed due to late soft tissue complications 7.6 years after cranioplasty. The histological analyses involved the preparation of non-decalcified slices from the scaffold’s inner and outer sides as well as a light-microscopic evaluation, including the quantification of the bone that had formed over the years. Within the scaffold pores, vital connective tissue with both blood vessels and nerves was found. Exclusive bone formation only occurred at the edges of the implant, covering 0.21% of the skin-facing outer surface area. The inner scaffold surface, facing towards the brain, did not show any mineralization at all. Although conventional alloplastic materials for cranioplasty reduce surgery time and provide good esthetic results while mechanically protecting the underlying structures, a lack of adequate stimuli could explain the limited bone formation found. CAD/CAM porous titanium scaffolds alone insufficiently osseointegrate in such large bone defects of the skull. Future research should investigate alternative routes that enable long-term osteointegration in order to reduce complication rates after cranioplasty. Opportunities could be found in mechano-biologically optimized scaffolds, material modifications, surface coatings, or other routes to sustain bone formation.
Experimental and Simulation Studies of Temperature Effect on Thermophysical Properties of Graphene-Based Polylactic Acid
Authors: Spinelli Giovanni , Guarini Rosella , Kotsilkova Rumiana , Batakliev Todor , Ivanov Evgeni , Romano Vittorio
Published: January 2022

Overheating effect is a crucial issue in different fields. Thermally conductive polymer-based heat sinks, with lightweight and moldability features as well as high-performance and reliability, are promising candidates in solving such inconvenience. The present work deals with the experimental evaluation of the temperature effect on the thermophysical properties of nanocomposites made with polylactic acid (PLA) reinforced with two different weight percentages (3 and 6 wt%) of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). Thermal conductivity and diffusivity, as well as specific heat capacity, are measured in the temperature range between 298.15 and 373.15 K. At the lowest temperature (298.15 K), an improvement of 171% is observed for the thermal conductivity compared to the unfilled matrix due to the addition of 6 wt% of GNPs, whereas at the highest temperature (372.15 K) such enhancement is about of 155%. Some of the most important mechanical properties, mainly hardness and Young’s modulus, maximum flexural stress, and tangent modulus of elasticity, are also evaluated as a function of the GNPs content. Moreover, thermal simulations based on the finite element method (FEM) have been carried out to predict the thermal performance of the investigated nanocomposites in view of their practical use in thermal applications. Results seem quite suitable in this regard.
Cellular Response of Human Osteoblasts to Different Presentations of Deproteinized Bovine Bone
Authors: de Azambuja Carvalho Pedro Henrique , Al-Maawi Sarah , Dohle Eva , Sader Robert Alexander , Pereira-Filho Valfrido Antonio , Ghanaati Shahram
Published: January 2022

Objectives: This study evaluated the cellular response of primary osteoblasts exposed to two different presentations of a low-temperature non-sintered deproteinized bovine bone matrix (DBBM). Materials and methods: Six different baths of a commercially available DBBM block (Bonefill® Porous Block) and one of DBBM granule (Bonefill® Porous) were evaluated to identify the mineral structure and organic or cellular remnants. Samples of the same baths were processed in TRIZOL for RNA extraction and quantification. For the immunologic cell reaction assay, primary human osteoblasts (pOB) were exposed to DBMM block (pOB + B) or granules (pOB + G), or none (control) for 1, 3, or 7 days of cell cultivation. Expression of proinflammatory cytokines by pOB was evaluated by crosslinked ELISA assay. In addition, total DNA amount, as well as cell viability via LDH evaluation, was assessed. Results: Organic remnants were present in DBBM blocks; 45.55% (±7.12) of osteocytes lacunae presented cellular remnants in blocks compared to 17.31% (±1.31) in granules. In three of five batches of blocks, it was possible to isolate bovine RNA. The highest concentration of TGF-β1 was found in supernatants of pOB + G on day 7 (218.85 ± 234.62 pg/mL) (p < 0.05), whereas pOB + B presented the lowest amount of TGF-β1 secretion at the end of evaluation (30.22 ± 14.94 pg/mL, p < 0.05). For IL-6 and OPG, there was no statistical difference between groups, while pOB + G induced more IL-8 secretion than the control (3.03 ± 3.38 ng/mL, p < 0.05). Considering the kinetics of cytokine release during the study period, all groups presented a similar pattern of cytokines, estimated as an increasing concentration for IL-6, IL-8, and OPG during cultivation. Adherent cells were observed on both material surfaces on day 7, according to H&E and OPN staining. Conclusion: Neither tested material induced a pronounced inflammatory response upon osteoblast cultivation. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the potential influence of organic remnants in bone substitute materials on the regeneration process.
Elastic Modulus and Flatwise (Through-Thickness) Tensile Strength of Continuous Carbon Fibre Reinforced 3D Printed Polymer Composites
Authors: Saeed Khalid , McIlhagger Alistair , Harkin-Jones Eileen , McGarrigle Cormac , Dixon Dorian , Archer Edward
Published: January 2022

Additively manufactured composite specimens exhibit anisotropic properties, meaning that the elastic response changes with respect to orientation. Both in-plane and out-of-plane mechanical properties are important for designing purpose. Recent studies have characterised the in-plane performance. In this study, however, through-thickness tensile strength of 3D polymer composites were determined by printing of continuous carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic polyamide-based composite, manufactured using a Markforged Two 3D printer. This paper discusses sample fabrication and geometry, adhesive used, and testing procedure. Test standards used to determine out-of-plane properties are tedious as most of the premature failures occur between the specimens and the tabs. Two types of samples were printed according to ASTM flatwise tension standard and the results were compared to determine the geometry effect on the interlaminar strength. This test method consists of subjecting the printed sample to a uniaxial tensile force normal to the plane. With this method, the acceptable failure modes for tensile strength must be internal to the structure, not between the sample and the end tabs. Micro-computed tomography (µCT) was carried out to observe the porosity. Surface behaviour was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to see the voids and the distribution of the fibres in the samples. The results showed consistent values for tensile strength and elastic modulus for Araldite glue after initial trials (with some other adhesives) to determine a suitable choice of adhesive for bonding the samples with the tabs. Circular specimens have higher tensile strength and elastic modulus as compared to rectangular specimens.
Numerical Deformation Analysis of Reinforced Lightweight Aggregate Concrete Flexural Members
Authors: Bacinskas Darius , Rumsys Deividas , Kaklauskas Gintaris
Published: January 2022

In the modern construction industry, lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC) is often used to produce load-bearing structural members. LWAC can be up to 40% lighter by volume than normal strength concrete. However, the lack of adequate numerical models often limits the practical application of innovative building materials such as lightweight concrete in real projects. The present study conducted a comparative numerical deformation analysis of a full-scale bridge deck slab and girder. Using the physical model proposed by the authors and the finite element software ATENA, the deformations of full-scale lightweight and traditional reinforced concrete elements under the short-term effects of permanent and variable loads were compared. Depending on the safety and serviceability limit requirements, it was found that the amount of longitudinal reinforcement in lightweight reinforced concrete elements could be reduced compared with that in standard reinforced concrete elements with the same parameters. The results of the numerical analysis showed that the deformation analysis model proposed by the authors could serve as an alternative tool for the design of lightweight concrete flexural members with the selection of optimum geometric and reinforcement parameters limited by the stiffness condition.
A Hybrid Mechanism-Based Robot for End-Traction Lower Limb Rehabilitation: Design, Analysis and Experimental Evaluation
Authors: Wang Lipeng , Tian Junjie , Du Jiazheng , Zheng Siyuan , Niu Jianye , Zhang Zhengyan , Wu Jiang
Published: January 2022

Conventional lower-limb rehabilitation robots cannot provide in-time rehabilitation training for stroke patients in the acute stage due to their large size and mass as well as their complex wearing process. Aiming to solve the problems, first, a novel hybrid end-traction lower-limb rehabilitation robot (HE-LRR) was designed as the lower-limb rehabilitation requirement of patients in the acute stage, in this paper. The usage of (2-UPS + U)&(R + RPS)&(2-RR) hybrid mechanism and a mirror motion actuator had the advantages of compact structure, large working space and short wearing time to the HE-LRR. Then, the mobility of the HE-LRR was calculated and the motion property was analyzed based on screw theory. Meanwhile, the trajectory planning of the HE-LRR was carried out based on MOTOmed® motion training. Finally, the motion capture and surface electromyography (sEMG) signal acquisition experiments in the MOTOmed motion training were performed. The foot trajectory experimental effect and the lower-limb muscle groups activation rules were studied ulteriorly. The experimental results showed that the HE-LRR achieved good kinematic accuracy and lower limb muscle groups training effect, illustrating that the HE-LRR possessed good application prospects for the lower-limb rehabilitation of patients in the acute stage. This research could also provide a theoretical basis for improving the standardization and compliance of lower-limb robot rehabilitation training.
Prevention of Hazards Induced by a Radiation Fireball through Computational Geometry and Parametric Design
Authors: Cabeza-Lainez Joseph M. , Salguero-Andújar Francisco , Rodríguez-Cunill Inmaculada
Published: January 2022

Radiation fireballs are singular phenomena which involve severe thermal radiation and, consequently, they need to be duly assessed and prevented. Although the radiative heat transfer produced by a sphere is relatively well known, the shadowing measures implemented to control the fireball’s devastating effects have frequently posed a difficult analytical instance, mainly due to its specific configuration. The objective of this article is to develop a parametric algorithm that provides the exact radiative configuration factors for the most general case in which the fireball is located at any distance and height above the ground, partially hidden by a protective wall over an affected area at different positions with respect to the said fireball. To this aim we use methods based on Computational Geometry and Algorithm-Aided Design; tools that, departing from the projected solid-angle principle, provide exact configuration factors, in all cases, even if they do not present a definite analytical solution. This implies dealing with spatially curved radiative sources which had not been addressed formerly in the literature due to their mathematical difficulties. Adequate application of this method may improve the safety of a significant number of facilities and reduce the number casualties among persons exposed to such risks. As a similar radiative problem appears in volcanic explosions; we hope that further extensions of the method can be adapted to the issue with advantage.
Fractional Diffusion with Geometric Constraints: Application to Signal Decay in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Authors: Lenzi Ervin K. , Ribeiro Haroldo V. , Lenzi Marcelo K. , Evangelista Luiz R. , Magin Richard L.
Published: January 2022

We investigate diffusion in three dimensions on a comb-like structure in which the particles move freely in a plane, but, out of this plane, are constrained to move only in the perpendicular direction. This model is an extension of the two-dimensional version of the comb model, which allows diffusion along the backbone when the particles are not in the branches. We also consider memory effects, which may be handled with different fractional derivative operators involving singular and non-singular kernels. We find exact solutions for the particle distributions in this model that display normal and anomalous diffusion regimes when the mean-squared displacement is determined. As an application, we use this model to fit the anisotropic diffusion of water along and across the axons in the optic nerve using magnetic resonance imaging. The results for the observed diffusion times (8 to 30 milliseconds) show an anomalous diffusion both along and across the fibers.
What Challenges Does the 21st Century Impose on the Knowledge of Primary School Teachers Who Teach Mathematics? An Analysis from a Latin American Perspective
Authors: Vásquez Claudia , Piñeiro Juan Luis , García-Alonso Israel
Published: January 2022

Curricula are usually pointed out as one of the factors that delimit teacher’s knowledge. In this context, this study analyzes the requirements for teacher’s knowledge that can be found in the curricular guidelines of Mathematics Education in the three Latin American countries belonging to the OECD to educate in sustainability. For this, a content analysis has been carried out that examines the meaning given to the teaching and learning of mathematics that would allow the development of key sustainability competences. The results show a teaching-learning process of mathematics that is not very aligned with education for sustainable development, with a low presence of key competences for sustainability. These results represent a roadmap, both for teacher training institutions and for providing a new educational approach that allows Mathematical Education to contribute to educating in sustainability in Primary Education. This new approach should promote students’ understanding of the different problems (social, economic, and environmental) that we are faced with, as well as the measures that must be adopted to transform and act towards a more sustainable world.
Performance Analysis of Picking Path Strategies in Chevron Layout Warehouse
Authors: Liu Huwei , Wang Fan , Zhao Junhui , Yang Jianglong , Tan Chunqiao , Zhou Li
Published: January 2022

Order picking is the part with the highest proportion of operation cost and time in the warehouse. The characteristics of small-batch and multi-frequency current orders reduce the applicability of the traditional layout in the warehouse. Besides this, the improvement of the layout will also affect the picking path, such as the Chevron warehouse layout, and at present, there is a lack of research on order picking with multiple picking locations under non-traditional layouts. In order to minimize the order picking cost and time, and expand the research in this field, this paper selects the Chevron layout to design and describe the warehouse layout, constructs the picking walking distance model of Return-type, S-type and Mixed-type path strategies in the random storage Chevron layout warehouse, and uses the Cuckoo Search (CS) algorithm to solve the picking walking distance generated by the Mixed-type path. Compared with the existing single-command order picking research, the order picking problem of multi picking locations is more suitable for the reality of e-commerce warehouses. Moreover, numerical experiments are carried out on the above three path strategies to study the impact of different walking paths on the picking walking distance, and the performance of different path strategies is evaluated by comparing the order picking walking distance with the different number of locations to be picked. The results show that, among the three path strategies, the Mixed-type path strategy is better than the Return-type path strategy, and the average optimization proportion is higher than 20%. When the number of locations to be picked is less than 36, the Mixed-type path is better than the S-type path. With the increase of the number of locations to be picked, the Mixed-type path is gradually worse than the S-type path. When the number of locations to be picked is less than 5, the Return-type path is better than the S-type path. With the increase of the number of locations to be picked in the order, the S-type path is gradually better than the Return-type path.
Utilize Fuzzy Delphi and Analytic Network Process to Construct Consumer Product Design Evaluation Indicators
Authors: Yao Kai-Chao , Lai Jian-Yuan , Huang Wei-Tzer , Tu Jui-Che
Published: January 2022

In the face of an ever-changing global market, companies able to launch new products meeting consumer needs faster than their competitors may not only gain a larger market share, but also shorten the development cycle to reduce costs. However, there are currently no universal design strategies and tools for evaluating the design of consumer products. Therefore, the purpose of this study is mainly to formulate a systematic and innovative product design strategy and evaluation tool, so that designers can use them to select the key factors when designing consumer products and design products that meet customer needs in the shortest development cycle. First of all, this study was designed to sort out general design methods and influencing factors in consumer product design based on theoretical analysis and expert interviews. Next, a questionnaire survey of 15 design-related experts and scholars was conducted, and the most important design methods and design factors were selected using the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM). After that, the analytical network process (ANP) method was used to obtain the priority weight of each design factor, and select the optimal product design strategy, QTPCP, and the deciding elements that affect consumer demand for products, including 2 dimensions, 11 design elements, and 38 design factors, making theoretical contributions to product design management. The design strategies and evaluation tools developed according to the conclusions are helpful in comprehensive planning and design selection for products of different natures, and make practical contributions, enabling product developers or designers to efficiently select the optimal product design when faced with different new product designs.
Category of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Modules
Authors: Sharma Poonam Kumar , Chandni  , Bhardwaj Nitin
Published: January 2022

We study the relationship between the category of R-modules (CR-M) and the category of intuitionistic fuzzy modules (CR−IFM). We construct a category CLat(R−IFM) of complete lattices corresponding to every object in CR−M and then show that, corresponding to each morphism in CR−M, there exists a contravariant functor from CR−IFM to the category CLat (=union of all CLat(R−IFM), corresponding to each object in CR−M) that preserve infima. Then, we show that the category CR−IFM forms a top category over the category CR−M. Finally, we define and discuss the concept of kernel and cokernel in CR−IFM and show that CR−IFM is not an Abelian Category.
The Optimal Strategy of Enterprise Key Resource Allocation and Utilization in Collaborative Innovation Project Based on Evolutionary Game
Authors: Jia Jiayi , Lai Yongzeng , Yang Zheng , Li Lin
Published: January 2022

The rational allocation and utilization of key corporate resources is the key to the success of collaborative innovation projects. Finding an optimal strategy for the allocation and utilization of key resources is of great significance for promoting the smooth progress of cooperative both innovation parties and increasing project returns. Therefore, from the perspective of the repeated games of the project participants, this article studies the optimal allocation and utilization of key resources of the enterprise in collaborative innovation projects. In this study, nine scenarios and eighteen strategic combinations of resources allocation and utilization by collaborative innovation partners are explored. Explicit expressions for the components of sixteen equilibrium points in terms of parameters are derived. Among these equilibrium points, four stable solutions are determined. These stable solutions correspond to the optimal strategies for enterprises allocating key resources and A&R parties to use these resources in different scenarios, and these strategies enable partners to maximize their interests. On this basis, some suggestions are put forward to promote cooperation and improve project performance.
Adaptive Sliding Mode Attitude-Tracking Control of Spacecraft with Prescribed Time Performance
Authors: Chen Runze , Wang Zhenling , Che Weiwei
Published: January 2022

In this article, a novel finite-time attitude-tracking control scheme is proposed by using the prescribed performance control (PPC) method for the spacecraft system under the external disturbance and an uncertain inertia matrix. First, a novel polynomial finite-time performance function (FTPF) was used to avoid the complex calculation of exponential function from conventional FTPF. Then, a simpler error transformation was introduced to guarantee that the attitude-tracking error converges to a preselected region in prescribed time. Subsequently, a robust adaptive controller was proposed by using the backstepping method and the sliding mode control (SMC) technique. Unlike the existing attitude-tracking control results, the proposed PPC scheme guarantees the performance of spacecraft system under the static and transient conditions. Meanwhile, the state trajectory of system can be completely drawn into the designed sliding surface. The stability of the control scheme is proven rigorously by the Lyapunov’s theory of stability. Finally, the simulations show that the convergence rate and the convergence accuracy are better for the tracking errors of spacecraft system under the proposed control scheme.
Temporal Artificial Stress Diffusion for Numerical Simulations of Oldroyd-B Fluid Flow
Authors: Pires Marília , Bodnár Tomáš
Published: January 2022

This paper presents a numerical evaluation of two different artificial stress diffusion techniques for the stabilization of viscoelastic Oldroyd-B fluid flows at high Weissenberg numbers. The standard artificial diffusion in the form of a Laplacian of the extra stress tensor is compared with a newly proposed approach using a discrete time derivative of the Laplacian of the extra stress tensor. Both methods are implemented in a finite element code and demonstrated in the solution of a viscoelastic fluid flow in a two-dimensional corrugated channel for a range of Weissenberg numbers. The numerical simulations have shown that this new temporal stress diffusion not only efficiently stabilizes numerical simulations, but also vanishes when the solution reaches a steady state. It is demonstrated that in contrast to the standard tensorial diffusion, the temporal artificial stress diffusion does not affect the final solution.
Root Canal Cleaning after Different Irrigation Techniques: An Ex Vivo Analysis
Authors: Di Spirito Federica , Pisano Massimo , Caggiano Mario , Bhasin Prashant , Lo Giudice Roberto , Abdellatif Dina
Published: January 2022

Background and Objectives: The endodontic space is a complex area on both micro and macro levels; therefore, traditional irrigation techniques may not guarantee a complete cleaning of such a complicated tridimensional system. The presented ex vivo study aimed to evaluate root canal cleanliness, obtained through an equal volume of traditionally applied sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), compared to ultrasonically activated NaOCl and ultrasonically activated NaOCl that had undergone intracanal heating NaOCl. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 freshly extracted human mandibular premolars underwent root sample length standardization (18 mm), root canal preparation and, based on the irrigation method employed, were randomly and equally assigned to three study groups, composed of root samples treated with ultrasonically activated NaOCl, ultrasonically activated NaOCl that had undergone intracanal heating and traditionally applied NaOCl. The root specimens were subsequently fixated with 4% buffered formalin solution and decalcified in Morse liquid. A total often 6-micron-thick serial cross-sections were obtained, dyed using hematoxylin and eosin and examined through an optical microscope at 40×, 100×, and 200×. Results: Ultrasonically activated NaOCl that had undergone intracanal heating showed a significantly smaller amount of debris compared to ultrasonically activated and traditionally applied NaOCl groups (p value < 0.05). Conclusions: Root canal cleanliness saw significant enhancements by ultrasonically activated NaOCl that had undergone intracanal heating.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Medical Sciences in 2021
Authors:   Medical Sciences Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
MetAMDB: Metabolic Atom Mapping Database
Authors: Starke Collin , Wegner Andre
Published: January 2022

MetAMDB is an open-source metabolic atom mapping database, providing atom mappings for around 43,000 metabolic reactions. Each atom mapping can be inspected and downloaded either as an RXN file or as a graphic in SVG format. In addition, MetAMDB offers the possibility of automatically creating atom mapping models based on user-specified metabolic networks. These models can be of any size (small to genome-scale) and can subsequently be used in standard 13C metabolic flux analysis software.
Long-Term Effects on the Lipidome of Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients
Authors: Kosek Vít , Hajšl Martin , Bechyňská Kamila , Kučerka Ondřej , Suttnar Jiří , Hlaváčková Alžběta , Hajšlová Jana , Malý Martin
Published: January 2022

Lipids modified by oxidative stress are key players in atherosclerosis progression. Superimposed thrombosis with subsequent closure of the coronary artery leads to the clinical manifestation of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). While several studies focusing on alterations in lipid metabolism in the acute phase have been conducted, no information is available on patients’ lipidome alterations over longer time periods. In the current follow-up study, we analyzed plasma samples obtained from 17 patients three years after their ACS event (group AC). Originally, these patients were sampled 3–5 days after an index event (group B). Lipidome stability over time was studied by untargeted lipidomics using high performance liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC–HRMS). Multi-dimensional statistics used for data processing indicated that plasmalogen lipids were the most prominent lipids separating the above patient groups and that they increased in the follow-up AC group. A similar trend was observed for lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). The opposite trend was observed for two fatty acyls of hydroxy fatty acid (FAHFAs) lipids and free stearic acid. In addition, a decrease in the “classic” oxitadive stress marker, malondialdehyde (MDA), occurred during the follow-up period. Our findings present unique information about long-term lipidome changes in patients after ACS.
Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Seed Press Cake as a Novel Material for the Development of New Non-Dairy Beverage Fermented with Kefir Grains
Authors: Łopusiewicz Łukasz , Śmietana Natalia , Paradowska Daria , Drozłowska Emilia
Published: January 2022

In recent years, there has been a growing interest from the food industry in new products that are increasingly desired by consumers because of the functional ingredients they contain. This category certainly includes fermented plant-based beverages, which combine the properties of plant substrates with the beneficial effects of fermentation on human health. In our study, two trial variants containing 20% and 30% black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seed press cake (BCPC) were inoculated with kefir grain cultures and then incubated at 25 °C for 24 h. The resulting beverages were stored under refrigeration (6 °C) for 28 days. During storage, pH, total free amino acids, reducing sugars, changes in the microbial population, viscosity, textural parameters, and color were measured on days 1, 5, 7, 14, 21, and 28. Throughout the storage period, the number of lactic acid bacteria, as well as yeasts, exceeded the recommended minimum level. Numerous changes in product parameters were observed in the tested beverages as a result of fermentation compared to non-fermented products. This study indicates the possibility of using BCPC as a valuable matrix for the production of a functional kefir-like beverage.
Molecular Epidemiology and Presence of Hybrid Pathogenic Escherichia coli among Isolates from Community-Acquired Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Nascimento Júllia A. S. , Santos Fernanda F. , Santos-Neto José F. , Trovão Liana O. , Valiatti Tiago B. , Pinaffi Isabel C. , Vieira Mônica A. M. , Silva Rosa M. , Falsetti Ivan N. , Santos Ana C. M. , Gomes Tânia A. T.
Published: January 2022

Urinary tract infections (UTI) affect community and healthcare patients worldwide and may have different clinical outcomes. We assessed the phylogenetic origin, the presence of 43 virulence factors (VFs) of diarrheagenic and extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli, and the occurrence of hybrid strains among E. coli isolates from 172 outpatients with different types of UTI. Isolates from phylogroup B2 (46%) prevailed, followed by phylogroups A (15.7%) and B1 (12.2%), with similar phylogenetic distribution in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The most frequent VFs according to their functional category were fimA (94.8%), ompA (83.1%), ompT (63.3%), chuA (57.6%), and vat (22%). Using published molecular criteria, 34.3% and 18.0% of the isolates showed intrinsic virulence and uropathogenic potential, respectively. Two strains carried the eae and escV genes and one the aggR gene, which classified them as hybrid strains. These hybrid strains interacted with renal and bladder cells, reinforcing their uropathogenic potential. The frequency of UPEC strains bearing a more pathogenic potential in the outpatients studied was smaller than reported in other regions. Our data contribute to deepening current knowledge about the mechanisms involved in UTI pathogenesis, especially among hybrid UPEC strains, as these could colonize the host’s intestine, leading to intestinal infections followed by UTI.
Comparative Analysis of Five Multiplex RT-PCR Assays in the Screening of SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: De Pace Vanessa , Bruzzone Bianca , Orsi Andrea , Ricucci Valentina , Domnich Alexander , Guarona Giulia , Randazzo Nadia , Stefanelli Federica , Battolla Enrico , Dusi Pier Andrea , Lillo Flavia , Icardi Giancarlo
Published: January 2022

The rapid and presumptive detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants may be performed using multiplex RT-PCR assays. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of five qualitative RT-PCR tests as compared with next-generation sequencing (NGS). We retrospectively examined a multi-variant panel (n = 72) of SARS-CoV-2-positive nasopharyngeal swabs categorized as variants of concern (Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta), variants under monitoring (Iota and Kappa) and wild-type strains circulating in Liguria (Italy) from January to August 2021. First, NGS libraries of study samples were prepared and mapped to the reference genome. Then, specimens were screened for the detection of L452R, W152C, K417T, K417N, E484Q, E484K and N501Y mutations using the SARS-CoV-2 Variants II Assay Allplex, UltraGene Assay SARS-CoV-2 452R & 484K & 484Q Mutations V1, COVID-19 Ultra Variant Catcher, SARS-CoV-2 Extended ELITe MGB and Simplexa SARS-CoV-2 Variants Direct. The overall accuracy of these assays ranged from 96.9% to 100%. Specificity and sensitivity were 100% and 96–100%, respectively. We highly recommend the use of these assays as second-level tests in the routine workflow of SARS-CoV-2 laboratory diagnostics, as they are accurate, user friendly, low cost, may identify specific mutations in about 2–3 h and, therefore, optimize the surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Design, Synthesis of New 1,2,4-Triazole/1,3,4-Thiadiazole with Spiroindoline, Imidazo[4,5-b]quinoxaline and Thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine from Isatin Derivatives as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Abu-Hashem Ameen Ali , Al-Hussain Sami A.
Published: January 2022

The current work aims to design and synthesis a new series of isatin derivatives and greatly enhances their cytotoxic activity. The derivatives 3-((bromophenyl) imino)-1-(morpholino (pyridine) methyl) indolin-2-one, 2-((oxoindoline) amino) benzoic acid, 3-(thiazolo-imino) indolinone, ethyl-2-((oxoindolin-3-ylidene)amino)-benzothiophene-3-carboxylate, 1-(oxoindoline)-benzo[4,5] thieno [2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(1H)-one, ethyl-2-(2-oxoindoline) hydrazine-1-carboxylate, N-(mercapto-oxo-pyrimidine)-2-(oxoindoline) hydrazine-1-carboxamide, N-(oxo-thiazolo[3,2-a] pyrimidine)-2-(oxoindolin-ylidene) hydrazine-carboxamide, 3-((amino-phenyl) amino)-3-hydroxy- indolinone, 3-((amino-phenyl) imino)-indolinone, 2-(2-((oxoindoline) amino) phenyl) isoindolinone, 2-(oxoindoline) hydrazine-carbothioamide, 5′-thioxospiro[indoline-3,3′-[1,2,4]triazolidin]-one, 5′-amino-spiro[indoline-3,2′-[1,3,4]thiadiazol]-2-one and 3-((2-thioxo-imidazo[4,5-b]quinoxaline) imino) indolinone were synthesized from the starting material 1-(morpholino (pyridine) methyl) indoline-2,3-dione and evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxic activity against carcinogenic cells. The new chemical structures were evidenced using spectroscopy (IR, NMR and MS) and elemental analysis. The results show that compounds imidazo[4,5-b]quinoxaline-indolinone, thiazolopyrimidine-oxoindoline, pyrimidine-oxoindoline-hydrazine-carboxamide, spiro[indoline-3,2′-[1,3,4] thiadiazol]-one and spiro[indoline-3,3′-[1,2,4]triazolidin]-one have excellent anti-proliferative activities against different human cancer cell lines such as gastric carcinoma cells (MGC-803), breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7), nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells (CNE2) and oral carcinoma cells (KB).