bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemically Oxidized Carbon Nanotube Sheets for High-Performance and Flexible-Film Supercapacitors
Authors: Noh Jun Ho , Choi Jimin , Seo Hyunji , Kim Juwan , Choi Changsoon
Published: October 2023

The development of flexible, high-performance supercapacitors has been a focal point in energy storage research. While carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets offer promising mechanical and electrical properties, their low electrical double-layer capacitance significantly limits their practicability. Herein, we introduce a novel approach to address this challenge via the electrochemical oxidation treatment of CNT sheets stacked on a polyethylene terephthalate substrate. This introduces oxygen-containing functional groups onto the CNT surface, thereby dramatically enhancing the pseudocapacitive effect and improving ion adsorption. Consequently, using the material in a two-electrode system increased the capacitance by 54 times compared to pristine CNT. The results of electrochemical performance characterization, including cyclic voltammograms, galvanostatic charge/discharge curves, and capacitance retention testing data, confirm the efficacy of the electrochemical oxidation approach. Furthermore, the mechanical flexibility of the electrochemically wetted CNT sheets was validated through resistance and discharge retention testing under repetitive bending (98% capacitance retention after 1000 bending cycles). The results demonstrate that electrochemically wetted CNT sheets retain their intrinsic mechanical and electrical properties while significantly enhancing the electrochemical performance (0.59 mF/cm2 or 97.8 F/g). This work represents a significant advancement in the development of flexible, high-performance supercapacitors with potential applicability to wearable electronics, flexible displays, and next-generation energy storage solutions.
Vitamin D Status and Associated Factors of Older Adults in the Cross-Sectional 2015–2017 Survey
Authors: Hu Yichun , Wang Rui , Mao Deqian , Chen Jing , Li Min , Li Weidong , Yang Xiaoguang , Yang Lichen
Published: October 2023

Vitamin D is beneficial for maintaining good health; however, there is a lack of nationally representative data reported, particularly in older adults. To better understand the nutritional status of vitamin D and its influencing factors on Chinese older adults, we adopted stratified random sampling to select serum samples originating from the Chronic Disease and Nutritional Survey Biobank of Chinese Residents in 2015–2017. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunoassay. The OR and PR of associated factors for vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were calculated. In the study, a total of 6273 participants were included. Median serum 25(OH)D concentration was 18.48 (13.27–24.71) ng/mL. The overall rate of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was 58.27% (<20 ng/mL), and the VDD rate was 22.17%, which is worse than 5 years ago by nearly 20%. The likelihood of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is increased in women, people aged and above 70 years, ethnic minorities, people living in urban areas, midlands, or western areas, warm or medium temperate zones, with middle school and above education level, and people with abdominal obesity and anemia would increase the possibility of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency with latitude having the greatest impact on vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency. Overall, vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are very common in Chinese older adults. They should be encouraged to improve their vitamin D nutritional status through enough sunshine exposure and increasing vitamin D intake through diet or supplements.
The Use of Shells of Marine Molluscs in Spanish Ethnomedicine: A Historical Approach and Present and Future Perspectives
Authors: González José A. , Vallejo José Ramón
Published: October 2023

Since ancient times, the shells of marine molluscs have been used as a therapeutic and/or prophylactic resource. In Spain, they were part of practical guides for doctors or pharmacists until the 19th century. In general, seashells were prepared by dissolving in vinegar and were part of plasters or powders used as toothpaste, or to treat dyspepsia, heartburn and leprosy. Thus, the nacre or mother-of-pearl of various molluscs was regularly used in the Royal Colleges of Surgery and in hospitals during the times of the Cortes of Cadiz, as a medicine in galenic preparations based on powders. In contemporary Spanish ethnomedicine, seashells, with a high symbolic value, have been used as an amulet to prevent cracks in the breasts and promote their development during lactation, to avoid teething pain in young children, to eliminate stains on the face or to cure erysipelas. But, as in other countries, products derived from seashells have also been empirically applied. The two resources used traditionally have been the cuttlebone, the internal shell of cuttlefish and the nacre obtained from the external shells of some species. Cuttlebone, dried and pulverised, has been applied externally to cure corneal leukoma and in dental hygiene. In the case of nacre, a distinction must be made between chemical and physical remedies. Certain seashells, macerated in lemon juice, were used in coastal areas to remove spots on the face during postpartum. However, the most common practice in Spain mainland was to dissolve mother-of-pearl buttons in lemon juice (or vinegar). The substance thus obtained has been used to treat different dermatological conditions of the face (chloasma, acne), as well as to eliminate freckles. For the extraction of foreign bodies in the eyes, a very widespread traditional remedy has been to introduce small mother-of-pearl buttons under the lid. These popular remedies and practices are compared with those collected in classic works of medicine throughout history, and data on the pharmacological activity and pharmaceutical applications of the products used are provided. The use of cuttlebone powders is supported by different works on anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory and/or wound healing properties. Nacre powder has been used in traditional medicines to treat palpitations, convulsions or epilepsy. As sedation and a tranquilisation agent, nacre is an interesting source for further drug development. Likewise, nacre is a biomaterial for orthopaedic and other tissue bioengineering applications. This article is a historical, cultural and anthropological view that can open new epistemological paths in marine-derived product research.
Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 as Therapy for Inferior Caval Vein Embolization: Recovery of Sodium Laurate-Post-Embolization Syndrome in Rats
Authors: Smoday Ivan Maria , Krezic Ivan , Kalogjera Luka , Vukovic Vlasta , Zizek Helena , Skoro Marija , Kovac Katarina Kasnik , Vranes Hrvoje , Barisic Ivan , Sikiric Suncana , Strbe Sanja , Tepes Marijan , Oroz Katarina , Zubcic Slavica , Stupnisek Mirjana , Beketic Oreskovic Lidija , Kavelj Ivana , Novosel Luka , Prenc Matea , Barsic Ostojic Sanja , Dobric Ivan , Sever Marko , Blagaic Alenka Boban , Skrtic Anita , Staresinic Mario , Sjekavica Ivica , Seiwerth Sven , Sikiric Predrag
Published: October 2023

After inferior caval vein embolization therapy, post-embolization syndrome (sodium laurate 10 mg/kg, 0.1 mL into rat inferior caval vein, assessment at 15, 30, 60 min, prime lung lesions, thromboemboli occluding lung vessels), as a severe occlusion/occlusion-like syndrome, might be resolved as a whole by stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 therapy. At 5 min after laurate injection, stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 was implemented as therapy (10 µg/kg, 10 ng/kg intraperitoneally or intragastrically). As before, confronted with the occlusion of major vessel(s) or similar noxious procedures, such as rapidly acting Virchow triad circumstances, the particular effect of the therapy (i.e., collateral pathways activation, “bypassing vascular key”, i.e., direct blood flow delivery via activation of azygos vein) assisted in the recovery of the vessel/s and counteracted multiorgan failure due to occlusion/occlusion-like syndrome as a whole in the laurate-injected rats. Along with prime lung lesions and thromboemboli occluding lung vessels, post-embolization syndrome rapidly occurred peripherally and centrally as a shared multiorgan and vessel failure, brain, heart, lung, liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract lesions, venous hypertension (intracranial (superior sagittal sinus), portal, and caval), aortal hypotension, progressing thrombosis in veins and arteries and stasis, congested and/or failed major veins, and severe ECG disturbances. Whatever the cause, these were all counteracted, eliminated, or attenuated by the application of BPC 157 therapy. As recovery with BPC 157 therapy commonly and rapidly occurred, reversing the collapsed azygos vein to the rescuing collateral pathway might initiate rapid direct blood delivery and start blood flow reorganization. In conclusion, we suggest BPC 157 therapy to resolve further vascular and embolization injuries.
Biomimetic Inorganic Nanovectors as Tumor-Targeting Theranostic Platform against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Wen Huang , Poutiainen Pekka , Batnasan Enkhzaya , Latonen Leena , Lehto Vesa-Pekka , Xu Wujun
Published: October 2023

Mesoporous silicon nanoparticles (PSi NPs) are promising platforms of nanomedicine because of their good compatibility, high payload capacities of anticancer drugs, and easy chemical modification. Here, PSi surfaces were functionalized with bisphosphonates (BP) for radiolabeling, loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) for chemotherapy, and the NPs were coated with cancer cell membrane (CCm) for homotypic cancer targeting. To enhance the CCm coating, the NP surfaces were covered with polyethylene glycol prior to the CCm coating. The effects of the BP amount and pH conditions on the radiolabeling efficacy were studied. The maximum BP was (2.27 wt%) on the PSi surfaces, and higher radiochemical yields were obtained for 99mTc (97% ± 2%) and 68Ga (94.6% ± 0.2%) under optimized pH conditions (pH = 5). The biomimetic NPs exhibited a good radiochemical and colloidal stability in phosphate-buffered saline and cell medium. In vitro studies demonstrated that the biomimetic NPs exhibited an enhanced cellular uptake and increased delivery of DOX to cancer cells, resulting in better chemotherapy than free DOX or pure NPs. Altogether, these findings indicate the potential of the developed platform for cancer treatment and diagnosis.
Polysaccharide-Based Nanogels to Overcome Mucus, Skin, Cornea, and Blood-Brain Barriers: A Review
Authors: Wang Ju , Viola Marco , Migliorini Claudia , Paoletti Luca , Arpicco Silvia , Di Meo Chiara , Matricardi Pietro
Published: October 2023

Nanocarriers have been extensively developed in the biomedical field to enhance the treatment of various diseases. However, to effectively deliver therapeutic agents to desired target tissues and enhance their pharmacological activity, these nanocarriers must overcome biological barriers, such as mucus gel, skin, cornea, and blood-brain barriers. Polysaccharides possess qualities such as excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, unique biological properties, and good accessibility, making them ideal materials for constructing drug delivery carriers. Nanogels, as a novel drug delivery platform, consist of three-dimensional polymer networks at the nanoscale, offering a promising strategy for encapsulating different pharmaceutical agents, prolonging retention time, and enhancing penetration. These attractive properties offer great potential for the utilization of polysaccharide-based nanogels as drug delivery systems to overcome biological barriers. Hence, this review discusses the properties of various barriers and the associated constraints, followed by summarizing the most recent development of polysaccharide-based nanogels in drug delivery to overcome biological barriers. It is expected to provide inspiration and motivation for better design and development of polysaccharide-based drug delivery systems to enhance bioavailability and efficacy while minimizing side effects.
Nanoemulsions as a Promising Carrier for Topical Delivery of Etodolac: Formulation Development and Characterization
Authors: Özdemir Samet , Üner Burcu , Karaküçük Alptuğ , Çelik Burak , Sümer Engin , Taş Çetin
Published: October 2023

This research primarily focuses on the development of innovative topical nanoemulsions for etodolac, aimed at surmounting its inherent limitations. The preparation of etodolac nanoemulsions is accomplished through a combination of high shear homogenization and ultrasonication methods. The optimization of the formulation components is systematically conducted using the design of experiments methodology. The droplet size (DS), polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential (ZP) of the optimized formulation were assessed using the differential light scattering (DLS) technique. Surface morphology examinations were conducted using electron microscopy, while interactions between excipients and the drug were analyzed through FTIR analysis. Additionally, in vitro release and ex vivo permeability studies were carried out. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in the context of a carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. The DS, PDI, and ZP of the optimal formulation were 163.5 nm, 0.141, and −33.1 mV, respectively. The in vitro release profile was assessed as a sustained release by following a non-Fickian drug transport. The flux of etodolac nanoemulsions and coarse dispersions were 165.7 ± 11.7 µg/cm2 h and 59.7 ± 15.2 µg/cm2 h, respectively. Enhanced edema inhibition was observed at 13.4%, 36.5%, and 50.65% for the 6th, 8th, and 24th hours, respectively. Taken together, these results confirmed that nanoemulsions are promising carriers for the topical delivery of etodolac.
Computational Amendment of Parenteral In Situ Forming Particulates’ Characteristics: Design of Experiment and PBPK Physiological Modeling
Authors: El Hoffy Nada M. , Yacoub Ahmed S. , Ghoneim Amira M. , Ibrahim Magdy , Ammar Hussein O. , Eissa Nermin
Published: October 2023

Lipid and/or polymer-based drug conjugates can potentially minimize side effects by increasing drug accumulation at target sites and thus augment patient compliance. Formulation factors can present a potent influence on the characteristics of the obtained systems. The selection of an appropriate solvent with satisfactory rheological properties, miscibility, and biocompatibility is essential to optimize drug release. This work presents a computational study of the effect of the basic formulation factors on the characteristics of the obtained in situ-forming particulates (IFPs) encapsulating a model drug using a 21.31 full factorial experimental design. The emulsion method was employed for the preparation of lipid and/or polymer-based IFPs. The IFP release profiles and parameters were computed. Additionally, a desirability study was carried out to choose the optimum formulation for further morphological examination, rheological study, and PBPK physiological modeling. Results revealed that the type of particulate forming agent (lipid/polymer) and the incorporation of structure additives like Brij 52 and Eudragit RL can effectively augment the release profile as well as the burst of the drug. The optimized formulation exhibited a pseudoplastic rheological behavior and yielded uniformly spherical-shaped dense particulates with a PS of 573.92 ± 23.5 nm upon injection. Physiological modeling simulation revealed the pioneer pharmacokinetic properties of the optimized formulation compared to the observed data. These results assure the importance of controlling the formulation factors during drug development, the potentiality of the optimized IFPs for the intramuscular delivery of piroxicam, and the reliability of PBPK physiological modeling in predicting the biological performance of new formulations with effective cost management.
Ecogeography of Dioscorea remotiflora Kunth: An Endemic Species from Mexico
Authors: Velázquez-Hernández Jocelyn Maira , Ruíz-Corral José Ariel , Durán-Puga Noé , Macías Miguel Ángel , González-Eguiarte Diego Raymundo , Santacruz-Ruvalcaba Fernando , García-Romero Giovanni Emmanuel , Gallegos-Rodríguez Agustín
Published: October 2023

Dioscorea remotiflora, a perennial climbing herbaceous plant native to Mexico, produces tubers with great nutritional and ethnobotanical value. However, most ecological aspects of this plant remain unknown, which limits its cultivation and use. This is why the objective of this research was to characterize the ecogeography of D. remotiflora as a source to determine its edaphoclimatic adaptability and current and potential distribution. A comprehensive database encompassing 480 geo-referenced accessions was assembled from different data sources. Using the Agroclimatic Information System for México and Central America (SIAMEXCA), 42 environmental variables were formulated. The MaxEnt model within the Kuenm R package was employed to predict the species distribution. The findings reveal a greater presence of D. remotiflora in harsh environments, characterized by arid to semiarid conditions, poor soils, and hot climates with long dry periods. Niche modeling revealed that seven key variables determine the geographical distribution of D. remotiflora: precipitation of the warmest quarter, precipitation of the driest month, minimum temperature of the coldest month, November–April solar radiation, annual mean relative humidity, annual moisture availability index, and May–October mean temperature. The current potential distribution of D. remotiflora is 428,747.68 km2. Favorable regions for D. remotiflora coincide with its current presence sites, while other suitable areas, such as the Yucatán Peninsula, northeast region, and Gulf of Mexico, offer potential expansion opportunities for the species distribution. The comprehensive characterization of Dioscorea remotiflora, encompassing aspects such as its soil habitats and climate adaptation, becomes essential not only for understanding its ecology but also for maximizing its economic potential. This will enable not only its sustainable use but also the exploration of commercial applications in sectors such as the pharmaceutical and food industries, thus providing a broader approach for its conservation and optimal utilization in the near future.
Development and Evaluation of Zinc and Iron Nanoparticles Functionalized with Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Microalgae for Their Application as Bio-Nanofertilizers
Authors: Guardiola-Márquez Carlos Esteban , López-Mena Edgar R. , Segura-Jiménez M. Eugenia , Gutierrez-Marmolejo Isaac , Flores-Matzumiya Manuel A. , Mora-Godínez Shirley , Hernández-Brenes Carmen , Jacobo-Velázquez Daniel A.
Published: October 2023

Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread and growing global concerns. Nanoscale nutrients present higher absorption rates and improved nutrient availability and nutrient use efficiency. Co-application of nanofertilizers (NFs) with biological agents or organic compounds increases NF biocompatibility, stability, and efficacy. This study aimed to develop and evaluate zinc and iron bio-nanofertilizers formulated with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and microalgae. Nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized with the co-precipitation method and functionalized with Pseudomonas species and Spirulina platensis preparation. NPs were characterized and evaluated on seed germination, soil microbial growth, and early plant response under seedbed conditions. NPs corresponded to zinc oxide (ZnO; 77 nm) and maghemite (γ-Fe2O3; 68 nm). Functionalized nanoparticles showed larger sizes, around 145–233 nm. The seedling vigor index of tomato and maize was significantly increased (32.9–46.1%) by bacteria-functionalized ZnO- and γ-Fe2O3-NPs at 75 ppm. NFs at 250 and 75 ppm significantly increased bacterial growth. NFs also improved early plant growth by increasing plant height (14–44%), leaf diameter (22–47%), and fresh weight (46–119%) in broccoli and radish, which were mainly influenced by bacteria capped ZnO- and γ-Fe2O3-NPs at 250 ppm. Beneficial effects on plant growth can be attributed to the synergistic interaction of the biological components and the zinc and iron NPs in the bio-nanofertilizers.
Pioneering a Theological Curriculum for Our Time and Place—The Case of Akrofi-Christaller Institute of Theology, Mission and Culture
Authors: Bediako Gillian Mary
Published: October 2023

“Decolonizing the mind” (Ngugi) is an ongoing task, even after 50 years or more of political independence. This is particularly the case with respect to theological education, where norms and structures still faithfully follow the Western pattern laid down in the colonial era. New initiatives in theological curriculum development that authentically connect with African issues and concerns and enable theological institutions to break from the shackles of these are an ongoing need, with developments on the African continent making such initiatives ever more urgent. This paper describes and analyzes the pioneering approach of the Akrofi-Christaller Institute (ACI), an indigenous Ghanaian institution, the background to its emergence and the process of implementation over the course of the past 25 years that has produced a successful, full-orbed and wide-ranging theological curriculum connecting with religious, cultural, social and inter-faith issues; the facilitating factors and the challenges on the journey and lessons that could be learned by other institutions wishing to indigenize their curricula. It is hoped that Kwame Bediako’s thinking on curriculum design for theological education which has shaped the ACI story of curriculum innovation, as well as the story of its implementation and ongoing development, may provide a model for other institutions desirous of breaking free from the colonial mode, in Africa and beyond in the non-Western world, and facing similar issues. After briefly setting ACI in its historical context, the paper goes on to elucidate the overall vision of the Institute that undergirds the curriculum and provides the rationale for its development. It identifies the fundamental pillars on which the curriculum rests and outlines a model for the basic framework of the curriculum. It then goes on to analyze the ways in which such a vision and framework enable a fresh approach to what has hitherto been seen as normative in the theological disciplines, with a view to creating space in the curriculum to address present-day African (and other non-Western) felt needs in mission and ministry. The paper touches on more recent developments to the original curriculum in response to emerging contextual issues and concludes with possible lessons that may be learned from the ACI story.
Mimesis, Metaphor, and Sports’ Liturgical Constitution: Ricoeurian and Augustinian Contributions
Authors: Hoetmer Reuben
Published: October 2023

Several scholars have observed the constructive possibilities in approaching sport as cultural liturgy. In what follows, I turn to hermeneutic resources in Paul Ricoeur and Augustine to elucidate the means of sports’ liturgical appropriation and the capacity of this appropriation to mediate values of ideological and religious significance. Drawing on Ricoeur’s analysis of Aristotelian mimesis, I approach sport as embodied metaphor and so locate metaphor as a central problem in sport hermeneutics. Following Ricoeur, I address this problem primarily by way of the ‘surplus of meaning’ within metaphor and its reference, and the role of Wittgensteinian ‘seeing-as’ in metaphor’s interpretation. Following Augustine, I observe the pivotal roles of desire and tradition within ‘ways of seeing’ and their outworkings in Augustine’s liturgical interpretation of ancient spectacles. Translating these considerations into sport, I argue that sport’s liturgical appropriation similarly proceeds through ‘ways of seeing’ or experiencing the embodied metaphor of sport, and that these ways are deeply informed by particular desires and cultural and ideological traditions.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Spatial Distribution and Temporal Trend of NO2, SO2 and AOD Using Satellite Observations over South and East Asia from 2011 to 2021
Authors: Rahman Md Masudur , Wang Shuo , Zhao Weixiong , Arshad Arfan , Zhang Weijun , He Cenlin
Published: October 2023

The past decade has witnessed remarkable economic development, marked by rapid industrialization and urbanization across Asian regions. This surge in economic activity has led to significant emissions, resulting in alarming levels of air pollution. Our study comprehensively assessed the spatial and temporal trends of key pollutants, namely nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and aerosol (using aerosol optical depth (AOD) at 550 nm as an indicator), from 2011 to 2021. The data sources utilized include OMI onboard the Aura satellite for NO2 and SO2, as well as MODIS onboard Terra and Aqua satellites for AOD. The results from spatial and temporal trend analyses of the three parameters show that there is a clear declining trend over China and Republic of Korea (e.g., NO2 is declining with an overall rate of −7.8 × 1012 molecules/cm2/year over China) due to the strict implementation of air pollution control policies. However, it is essential to note that both countries still grapple with substantial pollution levels, with proportions exceeding 0.5, indicating that air quality is improving but has not yet reached a safe threshold. In contrast, South Asian regions, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India, are experiencing an increasing trend (e.g., NO2 is increasing with an overall rate of 1.2 × 1012 molecules/cm2/year in Bangladesh), primarily due to the lack of rigorous air pollution control policies. The average emissions of NO2 and SO2 were remarkably higher in winter than in summer. Notably, the identified hotspots are statistically significant and predominantly coincide with densely populated areas, such as the North China Plain (NCP). Furthermore, this study underscores the pivotal role of sector-wise emissions in air quality monitoring and improvement. Different cities are primarily influenced by emissions from specific sectors, emphasizing the need for targeted pollution control measures. The findings presented in this research contribute valuable insights to the air quality monitoring and improvement efforts in East and South Asian regions.
Depressive Disorder Recognition Based on Frontal EEG Signals and Deep Learning
Authors: Xu Yanting , Zhong Hongyang , Ying Shangyan , Liu Wei , Chen Guibin , Luo Xiaodong , Li Gang
Published: October 2023

Depressive disorder (DD) has become one of the most common mental diseases, seriously endangering both the affected person’s psychological and physical health. Nowadays, a DD diagnosis mainly relies on the experience of clinical psychiatrists and subjective scales, lacking objective, accurate, practical, and automatic diagnosis technologies. Recently, electroencephalogram (EEG) signals have been widely applied for DD diagnosis, but mainly with high-density EEG, which can severely limit the efficiency of the EEG data acquisition and reduce the practicability of diagnostic techniques. The current study attempts to achieve accurate and practical DD diagnoses based on combining frontal six-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) signals and deep learning models. To this end, 10 min clinical resting-state EEG signals were collected from 41 DD patients and 34 healthy controls (HCs). Two deep learning models, multi-resolution convolutional neural network (MRCNN) combined with long short-term memory (LSTM) (named MRCNN-LSTM) and MRCNN combined with residual squeeze and excitation (RSE) (named MRCNN-RSE), were proposed for DD recognition. The results of this study showed that the higher EEG frequency band obtained the better classification performance for DD diagnosis. The MRCNN-RSE model achieved the highest classification accuracy of 98.48 ± 0.22% with 8–30 Hz EEG signals. These findings indicated that the proposed analytical framework can provide an accurate and practical strategy for DD diagnosis, as well as essential theoretical and technical support for the treatment and efficacy evaluation of DD.
Structural Uncertainty Analysis of High-Temperature Strain Gauge Based on Monte Carlo Stochastic Finite Element Method
Authors: Zhao Yazhi , Zhang Fengling , Ai Yanting , Tian Jing , Wang Zhi
Published: October 2023

The high-temperature strain gauge is a sensor for strain measurement in high-temperature environments. The measurement results often have a certain divergence, so the uncertainty of the high-temperature strain gauge system is analyzed theoretically. Firstly, in the conducted research, a deterministic finite element analysis of the temperature field of the strain gauge is carried out using MATLAB software. Then, the primary sub-model method is used to model the system; an equivalent thermal load and force are loaded onto the model. The thermal response of the grid wire is calculated by the finite element method (FEM). Thermal–mechanical coupling analysis is carried out by ANSYS, and the MATLAB program is verified. Finally, the stochastic finite element method (SFEM) combined with the Monte Carlo method (MCM) is used to analyze the effects of the physical parameters, geometric parameters, and load uncertainties on the thermal response of the grid wire. The results show that the difference of temperature and strain calculated by ANSYS and MATLAB is 1.34% and 0.64%, respectively. The calculation program is accurate and effective. The primary sub-model method is suitable for the finite element modeling of strain gauge systems, and the number of elements is reduced effectively. The stochastic uncertainty analysis of the thermal response on the grid wire of a high-temperature strain gauge provides a theoretical basis for the dispersion of the measurement results of the strain gauge.
SLAV-Sim: A Framework for Self-Learning Autonomous Vehicle Simulation
Authors: Crewe Jacob , Humnabadkar Aditya , Liu Yonghuai , Ahmed Amr , Behera Ardhendu
Published: October 2023

With the advent of autonomous vehicles, sensors and algorithm testing have become crucial parts of the autonomous vehicle development cycle. Having access to real-world sensors and vehicles is a dream for researchers and small-scale original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) due to the software and hardware development life-cycle duration and high costs. Therefore, simulator-based virtual testing has gained traction over the years as the preferred testing method due to its low cost, efficiency, and effectiveness in executing a wide range of testing scenarios. Companies like ANSYS and NVIDIA have come up with robust simulators, and open-source simulators such as CARLA have also populated the market. However, there is a lack of lightweight and simple simulators catering to specific test cases. In this paper, we introduce the SLAV-Sim, a lightweight simulator that specifically trains the behaviour of a self-learning autonomous vehicle. This simulator has been created using the Unity engine and provides an end-to-end virtual testing framework for different reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms in a variety of scenarios using camera sensors and raycasts.
Radix-22 Algorithm for the Odd New Mersenne Number Transform (ONMNT)
Authors: Al-Aali Yousuf , Hamood Mounir T. , Boussakta Said
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces a new derivation of the radix-22 fast algorithm for the forward odd new Mersenne number transform (ONMNT) and the inverse odd new Mersenne number transform (IONMNT). This involves introducing new equations and functions in finite fields, bringing particular challenges unlike those in other fields. The radix-22 algorithm combines the benefits of the reduced number of operations of the radix-4 algorithm and the simple butterfly structure of the radix-2 algorithm, making it suitable for various applications such as lightweight ciphers, authenticated encryption, hash functions, signal processing, and convolution calculations. The multidimensional linear index mapping technique is the conventional method used to derive the radix-22 algorithm. However, this method does not provide clear insights into the underlying structure and flexibility of the radix-22 approach. This paper addresses this limitation and proposes a derivation based on bit-unscrambling techniques, which reverse the ordering of the output sequence, resulting in efficient calculations with fewer operations. Butterfly and signal flow diagrams are also presented to illustrate the structure of the fast algorithm for both ONMNT and IONMNT. The proposed method should pave the way for efficient and flexible implementation of ONMNT and IONMNT in applications such as lightweight ciphers and signal processing. The algorithm has been implemented in C and is validated with an example.
Smart City Information Systems: Research on Information Published for Citizens and Design of Effective Content in the Czech Republic
Authors: Důbravová Hana , Bureš Vladimír
Published: October 2023

The concept of Smart Cities integrates innovative technologies to improve citizens’ quality of life in towns and cities worldwide. Crisis management is a separate section directly managed by the leadership of municipalities, cities and counties in cooperation between police, fire and municipal police to ensure the safety of residents and safety in public spaces. The purpose of this study is to investigate to which extent publicly available information related to the field of crisis management is unavailable to residents in municipalities, towns and cities through online information systems. The primary aim is to provide suggestions for a general information system structure and content that would highlight and satisfy the need to address the crisis management issue, especially in providing immediate information to the population through an innovative online form. The achievement of this goal is methodologically based on qualitative research analysing and comparing the information published for residents through Smart City information systems in selected towns and municipalities. Document analysis or conceptual design was applied, and evaluation criteria for objective assessment of Smart City information systems were appropriately determined. The comparative analysis based on this set of criteria enabled the development of the proposals of information systems’ content that can be used to keep the information systems for Smart Cities in cities, municipalities and regions, actual and beneficial. From the available resources, two main modules that focused either on citizens or cities were synthesised. Moreover, SWOT analysis or the Smart Regions Rapid Response structure was derived. Acquired results outline generic structures and contents that support the development of the concept of Smart Cities and can be suitably implemented for the development of the modification of information systems containing relevant information for residents, cities and municipalities, focusing on citizen safety.
Blockchain-Based Malicious Behaviour Management Scheme for Smart Grids
Authors: Xu Ziqiang , Salehi Shahraki Ahmad , Rudolph Carsten
Published: October 2023

The smart grid optimises energy transmission efficiency and provides practical solutions for energy saving and life convenience. Along with a decentralised, transparent and fair trading model, the smart grid attracts many users to participate. In recent years, many researchers have contributed to the development of smart grids in terms of network and information security so that the security, reliability and stability of smart grid systems can be guaranteed. However, our investigation reveals various malicious behaviours during smart grid transactions and operations, such as electricity theft, erroneous data injection, and distributed denial of service (DDoS). These malicious behaviours threaten the interests of honest suppliers and consumers. While the existing literature has employed machine learning and other methods to detect and defend against malicious behaviour, these defence mechanisms do not impose any penalties on the attackers. This paper proposes a management scheme that can handle different types of malicious behaviour in the smart grid. The scheme uses a consortium blockchain combined with the best–worst multi-criteria decision method (BWM) to accurately quantify and manage malicious behaviour. Smart contracts are used to implement a penalty mechanism that applies appropriate penalties to different malicious users. Through a detailed description of the proposed algorithm, logic model and data structure, we show the principles and workflow of this scheme for dealing with malicious behaviour. We analysed the system’s security attributes and tested the system’s performance. The results indicate that the system meets the security attributes of confidentiality and integrity. The performance results are similar to the benchmark results, demonstrating the feasibility and stability of the system.
The Impact of Health and Wellness Tourism in the Regional Economy of Estrela UNESCO Global Geopark, Portugal
Authors: Mota Margarida , Nossa Paulo , Oliveira Moreira Claudete
Published: October 2023

Health and wellness tourism is currently an emerging tourist product in the Portuguese context, as it incorporates a great potential to adapt to the challenges that the present time imposes. Given the emergence of new strategies aimed at more sustainable tourism and community development, Serra da Estrela, a Portuguese mountain region classified as a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2020, has been the subject of studies about its tourism potential. Such studies aim to deconstruct the general perception, which prevailed for decades, of a tourist landscape closely related to snow as the main resource. At the same time, as Serra da Estrela represents a rural region in the interior of the national territory, it benefited from its attractiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this sense, this research aims to study the importance that health and wellness tourism can have for the Estrela UNESCO Global Geopark in its impact on the regional economy. To this end, based on the study case, we analyze the thermal frequency in the resorts of the territory and indicators relating to tourist resorts with a spa component that exist in the region: accommodation capacity, the number of jobs, the number of overnight stays and the difference between TRevPAR and RevPAR. This research allows us to conclude that the thermal frequency has adapted to the challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the analyzed tourist resorts show resilience in the face of external demand shocks.
Impact of Digitalization on Process Optimization and Decision-Making towards Sustainability: The Moderating Role of Environmental Regulation
Authors: Peng Yixuan , Ahmad Sayed Fayaz , Irshad Muhammad , Al-Razgan Muna , Ali Yasser A. , Awwad Emad Marous
Published: October 2023

Digitalization has brought a significant improvement in process optimization and decision-making processes, in particular in pursuing the goal of sustainability. This study examines how digitalization has affected process optimization and decision-making towards sustainability, focusing on Pakistan’s manufacturing sector. This study also examines the moderating role of environmental regulations between digitalization and sustainable practices. This study is based on quantitative methodology. Purposive sampling was used to gather primary data from 554 managers and engineers working in manufacturing industries in Pakistan through a closed-ended questionnaire. Smart PLS was used for data analysis. The findings show digitalization’s positive and significant influence on process optimization and decision-making. The results also show that environmental regulations have a significant moderating effect on the digitalization of processes and decision-making towards sustainability practices. The findings provide a guideline for industries, decision-makers, and researchers for developing strategies that effectively use digitalization for sustainability and assist in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SGD-9, SGD-11, SGD-12, and SGD-13).
Analysis of Changes in Inter-Industrial Linkages and Economic Effects of Coal Industry in China Using Input–Output Model
Authors: Chen Zian , Suk Sunhee
Published: October 2023

This research quantifies the inter-industrial linkages (forward linkages and backward linkages) and economic effects (production-inducing effects and supply-shortage effects) and their changes through the input–output analysis of China’s coal industry in different time periods (2005, 2010, 2015, 2020). The results show that, from an overall point of view, the linkages (backward and forward) between the coal industry and other industries, as well as the economic effects of the coal sector, have tended to weaken in recent years, and both of these indicators for the coal sector in 2020 are weaker than the levels in 2005. However, individual sectors differ from the overall trend: the non-metal mineral products sector has shown an upward trend in recent years in the degree of total demand for coal sector products and the degree of influence by supply shortages in the coal sector, while these two indicators for the construction sector have been on an upward trend since 2005; the electricity, heat production, and supply sector has shown an upward trend in recent years in the degree of influence by supply shortages in the coal sector. Based on the analytical results of this study, some policy insights are provided for China’s low-carbon transition.
A Comparative Performance Investigation of Single- and Double-Nozzle Pulse Mode Minimum Quantity Lubrication Systems in Turning Super-Duplex Steel Using a Weighted Pugh Matrix Sustainable Approach
Authors: Roy Soumikh , Kumar Ramanuj , Panda Amlana , Sahoo Ashok Kumar , Rafighi Mohammad , Das Diptikanta
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the performance comparison of machining of UNS S32750 super-duplex stainless steel under single- and double-nozzle pulse mode minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) conditions. The pulse mode MQL system delivers lubricant pulses at specific intervals. The Taguchi L9 design, with three factors and their three levels, was taken to perform the CNC turning experiments under both single-nozzle and double-nozzle MQL cooling environments. The surface roughness (Ra), tool-flank wear (VB), tool-flank temperature (Tf), power consumption (Pc), and material removal rate (MRR) are evaluated and compared as performance indicators. In comparison to single-nozzle MQL, the responses of Ra, VB, Tf, and Pc were found to be decreased by 11.16%, 21.24%, 7.07%, and 3.16% under double-nozzle conditions, respectively, whereas MRR was found to be 18.37% higher under double-nozzle conditions. The MQL pulse time was found to be an important variable that affects Ra, VB, Tf, and MRR significantly. Under both cooling scenarios, common wears such as abrasion, built-up edges, adhesion, and notch wear are detected. Furthermore, the Pugh matrix-based sustainability evaluation results revealed that the double-nozzle MQL technique was superior to single-nozzle MQL, achieving improved sustainability for machining super-duplex stainless steel.
Estimating the Amount of Submerged Marine Debris Based on Fishing Vessels Using Multiple Regression Model
Authors: Song Kyounghwan , Lee Seunghyun , Joung Taehwan , Yu Jiwon , Park Jongkoo
Published: October 2023

The majority of marine debris is found in shallow waters; however, submerged debris accumulated at the sea bottom is affected by this kind of pollution. To mitigate the harmful effect of marine debris, we have to recognize its characteristics. However, it is hard to estimate the quantity of submerged marine debris because the monitoring of submerged marine debris requires greater cost and time compared to the monitoring of beach or coastal debris. In this study, we used the data for submerged marine debris surveyed in the sea near the Korean Peninsula from 2017 to 2020 and the data of fishing vessels passing through the areas from 2018 to 2020. In addition, the correlation of major factors affecting the amount of submerged marine debris was analyzed based on the fishing vessel data and the removal project data for submerged marine debris. Moreover, we estimated the amount of submerged marine debris based on the fishing vessels at the collection sites surveyed two or more times using a stepwise regression model. The average amount of submerged marine debris estimated by the model was 6.0 tonnes more than that by the removal project, for which the error was ~26.5% compared to the amount collected by the removal project. The estimation method for submerged marine debris developed in this study can provide crucial information for an effective collection project by suggesting areas that require a collection project for submerged marine debris based on the information of fishing vessels.
Fuzzy Logic and Its Application in the Assessment of Information Security Risk of Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Kerimkhulle Seyit , Dildebayeva Zhulduz , Tokhmetov Akylbek , Amirova Akzhibek , Tussupov Jamalbek , Makhazhanova Ulzhan , Adalbek Alibek , Taberkhan Roman , Zakirova Alma , Salykbayeva Alua
Published: October 2023

This article addresses the issue of information security in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) environment. Information security risk assessment in the IIoT is complicated by several factors: the complexity and heterogeneity of the system, the dynamic nature of the system, the distributed network infrastructure, the lack of standards and guidelines, and the increased consequences of security breaches. Given these factors, information security risk assessment in the IIoT requires a comprehensive approach adapted to the peculiarities and requirements of a particular system and industry. It is necessary to use specialized risk assessment methods and to take into account the context and peculiarities of the system. The method of information security risk assessment in the IIoT, based on the mathematical apparatus of fuzzy set theory, is proposed. This paper analyzes information security threats for IIoT systems, from which the most significant criteria are selected. The rules, based on which decisions are made, are formulated in the form of logical formulas containing input parameters. Three fuzzy inference systems are used: one to estimate the probability of threat realization, another to estimate the probable damage, and a final one to estimate the information security risk for the IIoT system. Based on the proposed method, examples of calculating the information security risk assessment in the IIoT environment are provided. The proposed scientific approach can serve as a foundation for creating expert decision support systems for designing IIoT systems.