bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Demodulation Scheme of MSK Signals Based on One-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Network under Impulsive Noise
Authors: Jia Guangyao , Lu Hangyu , Wang Shun , Xu Xin , Liu Xiaojun
Published: November 2023

The atmospheric noise widely present in very-low-frequency and low-frequency (VLF/LF) communication systems is usually considered as a type of impulsive noise, which can degrade the performance of signal processing methods based on Gaussian noise. To solve the problems of difficult model training and complex noise parameter estimation under impulsive noise in other demodulation schemes of minimum shift keying (MSK) signals, we use one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D-CNNs) to replace the integrator and decision module in coherent demodulation instead of the entire demodulation process. Our scheme preserves the operations that are beneficial for neural network training in the conventional coherent demodulation process, and the use of neural networks avoids the estimation of noise parameters. To further improve the symbol error rate (SER) performance, we remove the symbol conversion before output generation and add the symbol conversion before MSK modulation. The simulation results show that our scheme with fewer parameters and less calculation has better SER performance than other neural network demodulators. Our scheme’s SER performance exceeds the performance of the demodulation algorithm based on a myriad branch metric, whose performance is very close to the maximum likelihood (ML) performance. And, our scheme does not require complex noise parameter estimation.
Multi-Decision Dynamic Intelligent Routing Protocol for Delay-Tolerant Networks
Authors: Xiong Yao , Jiang Shengming
Published: November 2023

Delay-tolerant networks face challenges in efficiently utilizing network resources and real-time sensing of node and message statuses due to the dynamic changes in their topology. In this paper, we propose a Multi-Decision Dynamic Intelligent (MDDI) routing protocol based on double Q-learning, node relationships, and message attributes to achieve efficient message transmission. In the proposed protocol, the entire network is considered a reinforcement learning environment, with all mobile nodes treated as intelligent agents. Each node maintains two Q-tables, which store the Q-values corresponding to when a node forwards a message to a neighboring node. These Q-values are also related to the network’s average latency and average hop count. Additionally, we introduce node relationships to further optimize route selection. Nodes are categorized into three types of relationships: friends, colleagues, and strangers, based on historical interaction information, and message forwarding counts and remaining time are incorporated into the decision-making process. This protocol comprehensively takes into account the attributes of various resources in the network, enabling the dynamic adjustment of message-forwarding decisions as the network evolves. Simulation results show that the proposed multi-decision dynamic intelligent routing protocol achieves the highest message delivery rate as well as the lowest latency and overhead in all states of the network compared with other related routing protocols for DTNs.
Investigation of Contact Surface Changes and Sensor Response of a Pressure-Sensitive Conductive Elastomer
Authors: Katagiri Takeru , Ngo Nguyen Chi Trung , Togawa Yuki , Kodama Sogo , Kawahara Kotaro , Umemoto Kazuki , Miyoshi Takanori , Nakayama Tadachika
Published: November 2023

The pressure-sensing mechanisms of conductive elastomers, such as conductive networks, and tunneling effects within them have been extensively studied. However, it has become apparent that external pressure can significantly impact the contact area of polymeric materials. In this study, we will employ a commercially available conductive elastomer to investigate changes in resistance and contact surface under external pressure. Resistance measurements will be taken with and without applying conductive grease to the surface of the elastomer. This allows us to observe changes in resistance values associated with pressure variations. Furthermore, as pressure is applied to the conductive elastomer, the contact area ratio increases. Such an increase in the contact area and its correlation to changes in conductance values will be assessed.
Variable-Speed Frequency-Hopping Signal Sorting: Spectrogram Is Sufficient
Authors: Zhu Weipeng , Jin Hu , Wang Jin , Lei Yingke , Lou Caiyi , Liu Changming
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we present a novel signal sorting method aimed at reducing the impact of interference and noise while achieving blind detection and accurate sorting of a variable-speed frequency-hopping communication system. To achieve this, we combine spectrogram analysis with an innovative sorting approach. First, we generate the spectrogram of the received signal, and then employ a morphology filter to effectively eliminate noise and sweep frequency interference from the spectrogram. Subsequently, we identify and mark connected domains in the spectrogram, from which we extract the duration data to create a dataset specifically for separating fixed-frequency interference. Furthermore, we propose a specialized time alignment algorithm designed to accommodate the unique characteristics of variable-speed frequency-hopping signals, enabling precise sorting of variable-speed frequency-hopping signals. Through rigorous comparative evaluations against existing algorithms, we demonstrate that our proposed approach provides superior accuracy by offering a clearer representation of the time–frequency situation of the received signals. The proposed method provides a high correct sorting probability which is equal to 0.8 when signal-to-noise ratio is 0 dB and reaches 1 when signal-to-noise ratio reaches over 12 dB. In comparison, the correct sorting probability of the comparison algorithm is far inferior to the proposed algorithm.
New Waste Management Options Created by iMAGINE through Direct Operation on Spent Nuclear Fuel Feed
Authors: Merk Bruno , Detkina Anna , Noori-kalkhoran Omid , Jain Lakshay , Litskevich Dzianis , Cartland-Glover Gregory
Published: November 2023

The demand for improving the nuclear waste management has since long been identified as one of the major hurdles for widespread use of nuclear energy. Nuclear waste management, through partitioning and transmutation (P&T), has been researched since the 1990s with partitioning being a prerequisite for the process. Recently, an innovative approach of reactors directly operating on spent, or nowadays often called used nuclear fuel, iMAGINE has been proposed which could deliver on the aims of P&T as a side effect to more efficient and sustainable nuclear energy production in the future. A HELIOS model of the core has been used to analyze the long-term operation of a molten salt reactor including the investigation of the minor actinide accumulation over the entire burnup period. The results shown here confirm that long-term reactor operation is possible, even with higher amounts of vitrified waste loaded. Thus, it is possible to achieve the aims of P&T without prior partitioning, but it is certainly less efficient since the high concentration of minor actinides (MAs), required for efficient burning, is impossible to obtain in a short operational time. On this basis, the proposed nuclear waste management approach will be a long-term effort when it is accomplished without partitioning/separation technologies. However, none of the analyses contradicts this effort. The key points are: (a) when the technology for treating the waste is possible and reliable, the time horizon will not be a major concern; (b) the waste management is now intrinsically linked with energy production instead of requiring dedicated costly facilities, delivering a promising economic basis; (c) the waste management is now associated with long-term energy production and massively improved resource utilization. The study of feedback effects has shown that the modeled system has a strong negative feedback effect of ~−6 pcm/K, and even with spent nuclear fuel feed reduces to ~−3.8 pcm/K, ensuring the basis for a safe operation. In summary, it has been demonstrated that the objectives of P&T are achievable without prior partitioning, an approach which was never even discussed in the past. These ground-breaking results and the new insights will allow or even require rethinking the nuclear waste management of the future.
Power-System Flexibility: A Necessary Complement to Variable Renewable Energy Optimal Capacity Configuration
Authors: Juma Denis , Munda Josiah , Kabiri Charles
Published: November 2023

Comprehending the spatiotemporal complementarity of variable renewable energy (VRE) sources and their supplemental ability to meet electricity demand is a promising move towards broadening their share in the power supply mix without sacrificing either supply security or overall cost efficiency of power system operation. Increasing VRE share into the energy mix has to be followed with measures to manage technical challenges associated with grid operations. Most sub-Saharan countries can be considered ‘greenfield’ due to their relatively low power generation baseline and are more likely to be advantaged in planning their future grids around the idea of integrating high VRE sources into the grid from the outset. An essential measure for achieving this objective entails exploring the possibility of integrating renewable hybrid power plants into the existing hydropower grid, leveraging on existing synergies and benefiting from the use of existing infrastructure and grid connection points. This study evaluates the potential for hybridizing existing hydropower-dominated networks to accommodate solar- and wind-energy sources. The existing synergy is quantified using correlation and energy indicators by evaluating complementarity at daily, monthly and annual intervals. The proposed metric serves as a tool to improve planning on increasing the VRE fraction into the existing systems with the aim to achieve optimal power mixes. In comparison to cases in which the same kind of resource is over-planted while expanding installed capacity, the results demonstrate that wind and solar resources hold a positive degree of complementarity, allowing a greater share of VRE sources into the grid. The study shows that Kenya bears favorable climatic conditions that allow hybrid power plant concepts to be widely explored and scaled up on a large and efficient scale. The results can be applicable in other regions and represent an important contribution to promoting the integration of VRE sources into sub-Saharan power grids.
The Restorative Potential of Green Cultural Heritage: Exploring Cultural Ecosystem Services’ Impact on Stress Reduction and Attention Restoration
Authors: Xie Jing , Luo Shixian , Furuya Katsunori , Wang Huixin , Zhang Jiao , Wang Qian , Li Hongyu , Chen Jie
Published: November 2023

Green cultural heritage is an important form of natural space in cities. Only a few studies have conducted restorative studies in a historical environment as most have focused on natural environments. Moreover, few studies on cultural ecosystem services (CESs) have addressed cultural heritage. Based on an onsite questionnaire distributed to green cultural heritage users (N = 64) in Hamarikyu Garden, this paper explores the value of CESs in a green cultural heritage site and the relationship between cultural ecosystem values and perceived attention restoration/stress reduction. A multiple linear regression analysis and simple linear regression analyses were used to examine the data. The results showed that (1) the cultural ecosystem values of the green cultural heritage site were all rated highly except for the sense of place; (2) spending time in green cultural heritage provided respondents significant perceived attention restoration and stress reduction; (3) aesthetics and cultural heritage significantly affected perceived stress reduction, while attention restoration showed a significant positive correlation with aesthetic value and sense of place; and (4) the more visitors perceived the value of CESs, the more significant the perceived stress reduction and attention recovery were. This study indicates that CESs represent a useful tool for measuring the environmental characteristics of green cultural heritage sites and can predict perceived psychological recovery in green cultural heritage sites. Our findings enhance our knowledge about restorative environmental attributes through objective descriptions of potential health-promoting qualities and can be utilized as inspiration for designing restorative environments in green cultural heritage sites.
Implementation of In-Band Full-Duplex Using Software Defined Radio with Adaptive Filter-Based Self-Interference Cancellation
Authors: Liao Wei-Shun , Zhao Ou , Li Keren , Kawasaki Hikaru , Matsumura Takeshi
Published: November 2023

For next generation wireless communication systems, high throughput, low latency, and large user accommodation are popular and important required characteristics. To achieve these requirements for next generation wireless communication systems, an in-band full-duplex (IBFD) communication system is one of the possible candidate technologies. However, to realize IBFD systems, there is an essential problem that there exists a large self-interference (SI) due to the simultaneous signal transmission and reception in the IBFD systems. Therefore, to implement the IBFD system, it is necessary to realize a series of effective SI cancellation processes. In this study, we implemented a prototype of SI cancellation processes with our designed antenna, analog circuit, and digital cancellation function using an adaptive filter. For system implementation, we introduce software-defined radio (SDR) devices in this study. By using SDR devices, which can be customized by users, the evaluations of complicated wireless access systems like IBFD can be realized easily. Besides the validation stage of system practicality, the system development can be more effective by using SDR devices. Therefore, we utilize SDR devices to implement the proposed IBFD system and conduct experiments to evaluate its performance. The results show that the SI cancellation effect can reach nearly 100 dB with 10−3 order bit error rate (BER) after signal demodulation. From the experiment results, it can be seen obviously that the implemented prototype can effectively cancel the large amount of SI and obtain satisfied digital demodulation results, which validates the effectiveness of the developed system.
Genetic Analysis Based on Mitochondrial nad2 Gene Reveals a Recent Population Expansion of the Invasive Mussel, Mytella strigata, in China
Authors: Yan Shaojing , Ma Peizhen , Zuo Chenxia , Zhu Yi , Ma Xiaojie , Zhang Zhen
Published: November 2023

Mytella strigata is a highly adaptable invasive alien species that has been established in coastal China since 2014. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is an important tool for studying the evolution and population genetics of invasive species. In this study, the mitochondrial genome of M. strigata from China was sequenced by Illumina high-throughput sequencing and characterized with 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs). By assessing the selective pressure of 13 PCGs, the nad2 gene had the fastest evolutionary rate and was finally selected for population genetic analysis. A total of 285 nad2 sequences from seven M. strigata populations in China were analyzed and showed obviously T-rich and C-rich characteristics. According to population genetic diversity analysis, all the seven populations had haplotype (gene) diversity (Hd) ≥ 0.5 and nucleotide diversity (Pi) < 0.005. Haplotype networks showed a “star” distribution. Population historical dynamic analyses showed that Fu’s Fs and Tajima’s D values of all populations were negative except the Qukou (QK) and Beihai (BH) populations. The Zhangzhou (ZJ) and Xiamen (XM) populations were unimodal while the other populations were multimodal. These results suggested that the population of M. strigata in China may have passed the bottleneck period and is currently in a state of population expansion.
What Adolescents Have to Say about Problematic Internet Use: A Qualitative Study Based on Focus Groups
Authors: Rollo Simone , Venuleo Claudia , Ferrante Lucrezia , De Luca Picione Raffaele
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the study presented is designed to gain a deeper insight into how adolescents describe, understand, and suggest dealing with Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Eight focus groups were activated with a total of 70 students from the 9th and 11th grades (Mean Age = 15.53 ± 1.202; Female = 44.4%) in four different schools in Southern Italy. A Thematic Analysis was applied to the verbatim transcripts, and seven macro-categories were identified throughout the discourses collected: definition of PIU, symptomatology, impact, determinants, intervention strategy, opportunities and limits of the digital world, and needs that adolescents try to satisfy by surfing the net and which the offline world does not fulfill. Participants converge in seeing PIU in terms of addiction but adopt heterogeneous viewpoints in talking about the reasons for problematic engagement and possible preventive intervention strategies. In the overall picture emerging from the responses, PIU appeared to be the outcome of a psychological dynamic emerging from the interaction of individual, interpersonal, and sociocultural dimensions.
Autonomy of Nursing Students: Methodological Study of Validation of the PALOP Scale Portuguese Short Version
Authors: Batalha Luís Manuel Cunha , Palop-Muñoz Josefa , Oliveira Carlos Alberto Cruz de , Saus-Ortega Carlos , Ferreira Paulo Alexandre Carvalho , Gómez-Romero María-Rosario
Published: November 2023

The cultivation of critical thinking and decision-making skills promotes student autonomy. Only a few instruments measure nursing students’ autonomy, and the PALOP® Scale is one of them. This study aimed to semantically and culturally adapt the PALOP® Scale to European Portuguese and assess the psychometric properties of a short version. A methodological study was conducted with 530 second and fourth-year undergraduate nursing students. Content validity was assessed using exploratory and discriminant factor analysis, and reliability was determined through analyses of internal consistency, temporal stability, and floor and ceiling effects. The analysis of the psychometric properties of a short version of the PALOP®—PT Scale revealed complete agreement (100%) among panel members for content validity. The scale also showed discriminative capacity among second- and fourth-year students (t (528) = −7.907, p < 0.001) with a five-factor structure, with a total explained variance of 57.2%. Reliability analysis showed excellent internal consistency (α = 0.935) and moderate temporal stability (95% ICC (3.1) = 0.520 [0.290—0.693], p < 0.01). The short version of the PALOP®–PT Scale is a promising tool to assess nursing students’ perceived autonomy and identify necessary adjustments to their professional identity.
From Threatening Chaos to Temporary Order through a Complex Process of Adaptation: A Grounded Theory Study of the Escalation of Intensive Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Göras Camilla , Lohela-Karlsson Malin , Castegren Markus , Condén Mellgren Emelie , Ekstedt Mirjam , Bjurling-Sjöberg Petronella
Published: November 2023

To ensure high-quality care, operationalize resilience and fill the knowledge gap regarding how to improve the prerequisites for resilient performance, it is necessary to understand how adaptive capacity unfolds in practice. The main aim of this research was to explain the escalation process of intensive care during the first wave of the pandemic from a microlevel perspective, including expressions of resilient performance, intervening conditions at the micro-meso-macrolevels and short- and long-term consequences. A secondary aim was to provide recommendations regarding how to optimize the prerequisites for resilient performance in intensive care. A grounded theory methodology was used. First-person stories from different healthcare professionals (n70) in two Swedish regions were analyzed using the constant comparative method. This resulted in a novel conceptual model (including 6 main categories and 24 subcategories), and 41 recommendations. The conclusion of these findings is that the escalation of intensive care can be conceptualized as a transition from threatening chaos to temporary order through a complex process of adaptation. To prepare for the future, the components of space, stuff, staff, system and science, with associated continuity plans, must be implemented, anchored and communicated to actors at all levels of the system.
Incorporation of Pectin into Vaterite Microparticles Prevented Effects of Adsorbed Mucin on Neutrophil Activation
Authors: Mikhalchik Elena V. , Maltseva Liliya N. , Firova Roxalana K. , Murina Marina A. , Gorudko Irina V. , Grigorieva Daria V. , Ivanov Viktor A. , Obraztsova Ekaterina A. , Klinov Dmitry V. , Shmeleva Ekaterina V. , Gusev Sergey A. , Panasenko Oleg M. , Sokolov Alexey V. , Gorbunov Nikolay P. , Filatova Lyubov Y. , Balabushevich Nadezhda G.
Published: November 2023

The application of vaterite microparticles for mucosal delivery depends on their interaction with mucin and immune cells. As we have shown previously, the binding of mucin onto particles enhances the generation of reactive oxygen species by neutrophils. The attenuation of the pro-oxidant effect of the bound mucin through the modification of vaterite could improve its biocompatibility. Hybrid microparticles composed of vaterite and pectin (CCP) were prepared using co-precipitation. In comparison with vaterite (CC), they had a smaller diameter and pores, a greater surface area, and a negative zeta-potential. We aimed to study the cytotoxicity and mucin-dependent neutrophil-activating effect of CCP microparticles. The incorporated pectin did not influence the neutrophil damage according to a lactate dehydrogenase test. The difference in the CC- and CCP-elicited luminol or lucigenin chemiluminescence of neutrophils was insignificant, with no direct pro- or antioxidant effects from the incorporated pectin. Unlike soluble pectin, the CCP particles were ineffective at scavenging radicals in an ABAP–luminol test. The fluorescence of SYTOX Green demonstrated a CCP-stimulated formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). The pre-treatment of CC and CCP with mucin resulted in a 2.5-times-higher CL response of neutrophils to the CC-mucin than to the CCP-mucin. Thus, the incorporation of pectin into vaterite microspheres enabled an antioxidant effect to be reached when the neutrophils were activated by mucin-treated microparticles, presumably via exposed ligands.
Transcriptome-Wide Identification of TCP Transcription Factor Family Members in Pinus massoniana and Their Expression in Regulation of Development and in Response to Stress
Authors: Zhang Mengyang , Agassin Romaric Hippolyte , Huang Zichen , Wang Dengbao , Yao Sheng , Ji Kongshu
Published: November 2023

Pinus massoniana is an important coniferous tree species for barren mountain afforestation with enormous ecological and economic significance. It has strong adaptability to the environment. TEOSINTE BRANCHED 1/CYCLOIDEA/PCF (TCP) transcription factors (TFs) play crucial roles in plant stress response, hormone signal transduction, and development processes. At present, TCP TFs have been widely studied in multiple plant species, but research in P. massoniana has not been carried out. In this study, 13 PmTCP TFs were identified from the transcriptomes of P. massoniana. The phylogenetic results revealed that these PmTCP members were divided into two categories: Class I and Class II. Each PmTCP TF contained a conserved TCP domain, and the conserved motif types and numbers were similar in the same subgroup. According to the transcriptional profiling analysis under drought stress conditions, it was found that seven PmTCP genes responded to drought treatment to varying degrees. The qRT-PCR results showed that the majority of PmTCP genes were significantly expressed in the needles and may play a role in the developmental stage. Meanwhile, the PmTCPs could respond to several stresses and hormone treatments at different levels, which may be important for stress resistance. In addition, PmTCP7 and PmTCP12 were nuclear localization proteins, and PmTCP7 was a transcriptional suppressor. These results will help to explore the regulatory factors related to the growth and development of P. massoniana, enhance its stress resistance, and lay the foundation for further exploration of the physiological effects on PmTCPs.
Evaluation of Nitrosative/Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Heart Failure with Preserved and Reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Momot Karol , Krauz Kamil , Czarzasta Katarzyna , Zarębiński Maciej , Puchalska Liana , Wojciechowska Małgorzata
Published: November 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a complex syndrome characterized by impaired cardiac function. Two common subtypes of HF include heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). In this study, we aimed to evaluate and compare the plasma levels of 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT)—as a marker of nitrosative/oxidative stress and myeloperoxidase (MPO)—as an indicator of inflammation between HFpEF and HFrEF. Twenty-seven patients diagnosed with HFpEF and twenty-two with HFrEF were enrolled in this study. Additionally, forty-one patients were recruited for the control group. An echocardiographic assessment was conducted, followed by the collection of blood samples from all participants. Subsequently, the levels of 3-NT and MPO were quantified using the ELISA method. Comprehensive clinical characteristics and medical histories were obtained. Circulating levels of 3-NT were significantly higher in the HFpEF patients than in the control and the HFrEF groups. Nitrosative/oxidative stress is significantly intensified in HFpEF but not in HFrEF.
Increased Expression Levels of Thermophilic Serine Protease TTHA0724 through Signal Peptide Screening in Bacillus subtilis and Applications of the Enzyme
Authors: Xu Yiwen , Xuan Xiaoran , Gao Renjun , Xie Guiqiu
Published: November 2023

The thermostable protease TTHA0724 derived from Thermus thermophilus HB8 is an ideal industrial washing enzyme due to its thermophilic characteristics; although it can be expressed in Escherichia coli via pET-22b, high yields are difficult to achieve, leading to frequent autolysis of the host. This paper details the development of a signal peptide library in the expression system of B. subtilis and the optimization of signal peptides for enhanced extracellular expression of TTHA0724. When B. subtilis was used as the host and the optimized signal peptide was used, the expression level of TTHA0724 was 16.7 times higher compared with E. coli. B. subtilis as an expression host does not change the characteristics of TTHA0724. The potential application fields of TTHA0724 are studied. TTHA0724 can be used as a detergent additive at 60 °C, which can sterilize and eliminate mites while thoroughly cleaning protein stains. Soybean meal enzymatic hydrolysis with TTHA0724 at a high temperature produced a higher content of antioxidant peptides. These results indicate that TTHA0724 has great potential for industrial applications.
Systemic Immune Inflammation Index as a Key Predictor of Dialysis in Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease with the Use of Random Forest Classifier
Authors: Kawalec Anna , Stojanowski Jakub , Mazurkiewicz Paulina , Choma Anna , Gaik Magdalena , Pluta Mateusz , Szymański Michał , Bruciak Aleksandra , Gołębiowski Tomasz , Musiał Kinga
Published: November 2023

Background: Low-grade inflammation is a significant component of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Systemic immune inflammation index (SII), a newly defined ratio combining neutrophil, lymphocyte, and platelet counts, has not yet been evaluated in the pediatric CKD population nor in the context of CKD progression or dialysis. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the complete blood cell count (CBC)-driven parameters, including SII, in children with CKD and to assess their potential usefulness in the prediction of the need for chronic dialysis. Methods: A single-center, retrospective study was conducted on 27 predialysis children with CKD stages 4–5 and 39 children on chronic dialysis. The data were analyzed with the artificial intelligence tools. Results: The Random Forest Classifier (RFC) model with the input variables of neutrophil count, mean platelet volume (MPV), and SII turned out to be the best predictor of the progression of pediatric CKD into end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) requiring dialysis. Out of these variables, SII showed the largest share in the prediction of the need for renal replacement therapy. Conclusions: Chronic inflammation plays a pivotal role in the progression of CKD into ESKD. Among CBC-driven ratios, SII seems to be the most useful predictor of the need for chronic dialysis in CKD children.
A Novel COVID-19 Diagnosis Approach Utilizing a Comprehensive Set of Diagnostic Information (CSDI)
Authors: Zhunissova Ulzhalgas , Dzierżak Róża , Omiotek Zbigniew , Lytvynenko Volodymyr
Published: November 2023

The aim of the study was to develop a computerized method for distinguishing COVID-19-affected cases from cases of pneumonia. This task continues to be a real challenge in the practice of diagnosing COVID-19 disease. In the study, a new approach was proposed, using a comprehensive set of diagnostic information (CSDI) including, among other things, medical history, demographic data, signs and symptoms of the disease, and laboratory results. These data have the advantage of being much more reliable compared with data based on a single source of information, such as radiological imaging. On this basis, a comprehensive process of building predictive models was carried out, including such steps as data preprocessing, feature selection, training, and evaluation of classification models. During the study, 9 different methods for feature selection were used, while the grid search method and 12 popular classification algorithms were employed to build classification models. The most effective model achieved a classification accuracy (ACC) of 85%, a sensitivity (TPR) equal to 83%, and a specificity (TNR) of 88%. The model was built using the random forest method with 15 features selected using the recursive feature elimination selection method. The results provide an opportunity to build a computer system to assist the physician in the diagnosis of the COVID-19 disease.
Wall Properties of Elastic and Muscular Arteries in Children and Adolescents at Increased Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Genovesi Simonetta , Tassistro Elena , Lieti Giulia , Patti Ilenia , Giussani Marco , Antolini Laura , Orlando Antonina , Salvi Paolo , Parati Gianfranco
Published: November 2023

Background: Pulse wave velocity (PWV) assessment represents a simple method to estimate arterial distensibility. At present, carotid-femoral PWV (cf-PWV) is considered the gold standard method in the non-invasive evaluation of the elastic properties of the aorta. On the other hand, the mechanical properties of muscular arteries can be evaluated on the axillo-brachial-radia axis by estimating the carotid-radial PWV (cr-PWV). While a number of studies have addressed these issues in adults, limited information is available on the respective features of cf-PWV and cr-PWV and on their modulating factors in children and adolescents at increased cardiovascular risk. Methods: The mechanical properties of the predominantly elastic (aorta) and muscular (axillo−brachial−radial axis) arteries were evaluated in a pediatric population characterized by either elevated blood pressure (BP) or excess body weight, and the main factors affecting cf-PWV and cr-PWV values in these individuals were investigated. Results: 443 children and adolescents (median age 11.5 years, 43.3% females) were enrolled; 25% had BP values >90th percentile and 81% were excess weight. The cf-PWV values were significantly lower than the cr-PWV values: median (Q1–Q3) = 4.8 m/s (4.3–5.5) and 5.8 m/s (5.0–6.5), respectively (p < 0.001). The pubertal development (p < 0.03), systolic BP and diastolic BP z-scores (p = 0.002), heart rate (p < 0.001), and waist-to-height ratio (p < 0.005) were significantly associated with cf-PWV values. No significant association was found between BMI z-score and cf-PWV. Predictors of high cf-PWV (>95th percentile) were the heart rate (OR 1.07, 95%CI 1.04–1.10, p < 0.001) and waist-to-height ratio (OR 1.06, 95%CI 1.0–1.13, p = 0.04). The variables significantly related with cr-PWV values were diastolic BP z-score (p = 0.001), heart rate (p < 0.01), and HOMA index (p < 0.02). No significant association was found between the cr-PWV and BMI z-score or waist-to-height ratio. Conclusions: Systolic and diastolic BP values and central obesity are associated with aortic stiffness in a population of children and adolescents at increased cardiovascular risk. In contrast, diastolic BP, heart rate, and levels of insulin resistance appear to be related to distensibility of the upper limb vascular district.
Patient-Level Exposure to Actionable Pharmacogenomic Medications in a Nationally Representative Insurance Claims Database
Authors: Bianchini Monica , Aquilante Christina , Kao David , Martin James , Anderson Heather
Published: November 2023

Background: The prevalence of exposure to pharmacogenomic medications is well established but little is known about how long patients are exposed to these medications. Aim: Our objective was to describe the amount of exposure to actionable pharmacogenomic medications using patient-level measures among a large nationally representative population using an insurance claims database. Methods: Our retrospective cohort study included adults (18+ years) from the IQVIA PharMetrics® Plus for Academics claims database with incident fills of 72 Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium level A, A/B, or B medications from January 2012 through September 2018. Patient-level outcomes included the proportion of days covered (PDC), number of fills, and average days supplied per fill over a 12-month period. Results: Over 1 million fills of pharmacogenetic medications were identified for 605,355 unique patients. The mean PDC for all medications was 0.21 (SD 0.3), suggesting patients were exposed 21% (77 days) of the year. Medications with the highest PDC (0.55–0.89) included ivacaftor, tamoxifen, clopidogrel, HIV medications, transplant medications, and statins; with the exception of statins, these medications were initiated by fewer patients. Pharmacogenomic medications were filled an average of 2.8 times (SD 3.0, range 1–81) during the year following the medication’s initiation, and the average days supplied for each fill was 22.3 days (SD 22.4, range 1–180 days). Conclusion: Patient characteristics associated with more medication exposure were male sex, older age, and comorbid chronic conditions. Prescription fill data provide patient-level exposure metrics that can further our understanding of pharmacogenomic medication utilization and help inform opportunities for pharmacogenomic testing.
A Systematic Literature Review on the Application of Automation in Logistics
Authors: Ferreira Bárbara , Reis João
Published: November 2023

Background: in recent years, automation has emerged as a hot topic, showcasing its capacity to perform tasks independently, without constant supervision. While automation has witnessed substantial growth in various sectors like engineering and medicine, the logistics industry has yet to witness an equivalent surge in research and implementation. Therefore, it becomes imperative to explore the application of automation in logistics. Methods: this article aims to provide a systematic analysis of the scientific literature concerning artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in logistics, laying the groundwork for robust and relevant advancements in the field. Results: the foundation of automation lies in cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, and deep learning, enabling self-problem resolution and autonomous task execution, reducing the reliance on human labor. Consequently, the implementation of smart logistics through automation has the potential to enhance competitiveness and minimize the margin of error. The impact of AI and robot-driven logistics on automation in logistics is profound. Through collaborative efforts in human–robot integration (HRI), there emerges an opportunity to develop social service robots that coexist harmoniously with humans. This integration can lead to a revolutionary transformation in logistics operations. By exploring the scientific literature on AI and automation in logistics, this article seeks to unravel critical insights into the practical application of automation, thus bridging the existing research gap in the logistics industry. Conclusions: the findings underscore the impact of artificial intelligence and robot-driven logistics on improving operational efficiency, reducing errors, and enhancing competitiveness. The research also provided valuable insights into the applications of various automation techniques, including machine learning and deep learning, in the logistics domain. Hence, the study’s insights can guide practitioners and decision makers in implementing effective automation strategies, thereby improving overall performance and adaptability in the dynamic logistics landscape. Understanding these foundations can pave the way for a future where automation and human expertise work hand in hand to drive logistics toward unparalleled efficiency and success.
High-Temperature Tensile Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Rolled 6082-T6 Aluminum Alloy Sheets
Authors: Ye Tuo , Xia Erli , Qiu Sawei , Wang Yong , Yue Huanyu , Liu Jie , Wu Yuanzhi
Published: November 2023

The tensile properties of rolled 6082-T6 aluminum alloy were tested at a high temperature, and the influences of tensile temperature on its flow stress and anisotropy were studied. The microstructure evolution was characterized using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). It was concluded that the tensile strength of the studied alloy decreases with increasing temperature. In higher-temperature deformation, the dislocation density decreases alongside the coarsening of precipitates, leading to a decrease in deformation resistance, and increase in the number of dimples and deepening of their sizes, exhibiting good plasticity. The alloy displays anisotropic mechanical properties at 200 °C due to the elongated grains and the orientation of the α-phase. The anisotropy becomes weaker with increasing temperature. There is no evident anisotropy at 400 °C, as the slip systems are activated more easily and the grains begin to recrystallize.
Digital Twin-Based Fault Diagnosis Platform for Final Rolling Temperature in Hot Strip Production
Authors: Desheng Chen , Jian Shao , Mingxin Li , Sensen Xiang
Published: November 2023

The final rolling temperature in hot rolling is an important process parameter for hot-rolled strips and greatly influences their mechanical properties and rolling stability. The diagnosis of final rolling temperature anomalies in hot rolling has always been difficult in industry. A data-driven risk assessment method for detecting final rolling temperature anomalies is proposed. In view of the abnormal setting value for the strip head, a random forest model is established to screen the process parameters with high feature importance, and the isolation forest algorithm is used to evaluate the risk associated with the remaining parameters. In view of the abnormal process curve of the full length of the strip, the Hausdorff distance algorithm is used to eliminate samples with large deviations, and a risk assessment of the curve is carried out using the LCSS algorithm. Aiming to understand the complex coupling relationship between the influencing factors, a method for identifying the causes of anomalies, combining a knowledge graph and a Bayesian network, is established. According to the results of the strip head and the full-length risk assessment model, the occurrence of the corresponding nodes in the Bayesian network is determined, and the root cause of the abnormality is finally output. By combining mechanistic modeling and data modeling techniques, it becomes possible to rapidly, automatically, and accurately detect and analyze final rolling temperature anomalies during the rolling process. When applying the system in the field, when compared to manual analysis by onsite personnel, the accuracy of deducing the causes of anomalies was found to reach 92%.
Investigating the Architecture and Characteristics of Asian Hornet Nests: A Biomimetics Examination of Structure and Materials
Authors: Sedira Naim , Pinto Jorge , Ginja Mário , Gomes Ana P. , Nepomuceno Miguel C. S. , Pereira Sandra
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the internal architecture of Asian hornet nests (AHNs) using advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scanning and X-ray radiography, to understand their construction and function. The primary objective and significance of this study centre on drawing inspiration from the creative way Asian hornets construct their nests, with a particular focus on the architecture, design, functionality, and building materials of these nests. The architectural principles governing the construction of these nests, such as the arrangement of hexagonal cells, pedicels for load bearing, and adhesive materials, serve as a source of inspiration for innovative and sustainable design practices. The pedicels in Asian hornet nests play a crucial role in transferring load and ensuring stability. Additionally, AHNs’ adhesion to tree branches is essential for preventing collapse, and the pedicels provide necessary structural support. The knowledge gained from studying AHNs’ internal architecture could be applied directly to the architecture and civil engineering fields to improve structure stability and durability. The microstructure analysis of the paper-like material that hornets produce to build their nests indicates a complex and heterogeneous structure, composed of various plant fragments and fibres. This unique composition creates intricate grooves and pores, which are essential for regulating temperature and humidity levels within the outer envelope of the nest. The study of Asian hornet nests’ internal structure demonstrated that nature’s engineering principles inspire the design of durable and resilient structures in the construction industry. Civil engineers can incorporate similar principles into their designs to enhance the structural integrity and performance of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure.
Study of Elastic and Structural Properties of BaFe2As2 Ultrathin Film Using Picosecond Ultrasonics
Authors: Cheng Di , Song Boqun , Kang Jong-Hoon , Sundahl Chris , Edgeton Anthony L. , Luo Liang , Park Joong-Mok , Collantes Yesusa G. , Hellstrom Eric E. , Mootz Martin , Perakis Ilias E. , Eom Chang-Beom , Wang Jigang
Published: November 2023

We obtain the through-thickness elastic stiffness coefficient (C33) in nominal 9 nm and 60 nm BaFe2As2 (Ba-122) thin films by using picosecond ultrasonics. Particularly, we reveal the increase in elastic stiffness as film thickness decreases from bulk value down to 9 nm, which we attribute to the increase in intrinsic strain near the film-substrate interface. Our density functional theory (DFT) calculations reproduce the observed acoustic oscillation frequencies well. In addition, temperature dependence of longitudinal acoustic (LA) phonon mode frequency for 9 nm Ba-122 thin film is reported. The frequency change is attributed to the change in Ba-122 orthorhombicity (a−b)/(a+b). This conclusion can be corroborated by our previous ultrafast ellipticity measurements in 9 nm Ba-122 thin film, which exhibit strong temperature dependence and indicate the structural phase transition temperature Ts.
An Engineered Plant Metabolic Pathway Results in High Yields of Hydroxytyrosol Due to a Modified Whole-Cell Biocatalysis in Bioreactor
Authors: Mermigka Glykeria , Vavouraki Aikaterini I. , Nikolaou Chrysoula , Cheiladaki Ioanna , Vourexakis Michail , Goumas Dimitrios , Ververidis Filippos , Trantas Emmanouil
Published: November 2023

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is a phenolic substance primarily present in olive leaves and olive oil. Numerous studies have shown its advantages for human health, making HT a potentially active natural component with significant added value. Determining strategies for its low-cost manufacturing by metabolic engineering in microbial factories is hence still of interest. The objective of our study was to assess and improve HT production in a one-liter bioreactor utilizing genetically modified Escherichia coli strains that had previously undergone fed-batch testing. Firstly, we compared the induction temperatures in small-scale whole-cell biocatalysis studies and then examined the optimal temperature in a large volume bioreactor. By lowering the induction temperature, we were able to double the yield of HT produced thereby, reaching 82% when utilizing tyrosine or L-DOPA as substrates. Hence, without the need to further modify our original strains, we were able to increase the HT yield.
RF Characterization of GaAs HBT under Load Mismatch with Reverse Wave Injection Technique
Authors: Xu Yidong , Tong Yuxiu , Su Jiangtao
Published: November 2023

RF PAs need to be reliable enough to protect them from damage under load mismatch conditions. This paper investigated the characteristics of GaAs heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs) under load mismatch conditions using a novel reverse wave injection technique to realize large VSWR ruggedness measurement with the circle centered at 50 Ohm and optimal impedance separately to analyze the device in real applications. With a real-time waveform measurement system, the RF voltage and current waveform information can be acquired, which provide a more-accurate view of what is occurring at the current generator plane of the HBT device. Thereby, the potential failure mechanisms and load impedance can be identified to design the most-suitable PA circuits in communication systems.