bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Ulam-Hyers-Rassias stability and novel sustainable techniques for dynamical analysis of global warming impact on ecosystem
Authors: Farman Muhammad , Shehzad Aamir , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Hincal Evren , Akgul Ali , Hassan Ahmed Muhammad
Published: December 2023

Marine structure changes as a result of climate change, with potential biological implications for human societies and marine ecosystems. These changes include changes in temperatures, flow, discrimination, nutritional inputs, oxygen availability, and acidification of the ocean. In this study, a fractional-order model is constructed using the Caputo fractional operator, which singular and nol-local kernel. A model examines the effects of accelerating global warming on aquatic ecosystems while taking into account variables that change over time, such as the environment and organisms. The positively invariant area also demonstrates positive, bounded solutions of the model treated. The equilibrium states for the occurrence and extinction of fish populations are derived for a feasible solution of the system. We also used fixed-point theorems to analyze the existence and uniqueness of the model. The generalized Ulam-Hyers-Rassias function is used to analyze the stability of the system. To study the impact of the fractional operator through computational simulations, results are generated employing a two-step Lagrange polynomial in the generalized version for the power law kernel and also compared the results with an exponential law and Mittag Leffler kernel. We also produce graphs of the model at various fractional derivative orders to illustrate the important influence that the fractional order has on the different classes of the model with the memory effects of the fractional operator. To help with the oversight of fisheries, this research builds mathematical connections between the natural world and aquatic ecosystems.
Association between copy number alterations estimated using low-pass whole genome sequencing of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded prostate tumor tissue and cancer-specific clinical parameters
Authors: Salachan Paul Vinu , Ulhøi Benedicte Parm , Borre Michael , Sørensen Karina Dalsgaard
Published: December 2023

Copy number alterations (CNAs) are frequently observed in early-stage prostate cancer and are associated with disease recurrence and tumor aggressiveness. Cost-effective assessment of CNAs could enhance clinical utility of CNAs. Here, we combined the cost-effectiveness of low-pass (low coverage) whole genome sequencing (LPWGS) and the routine availability of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissue for assessing CNAs in a cohort of 187 men with early-stage localised prostate cancer. We detected well known CNAs in 8p, 8q, 13q and 16q and recurrent gains of the oncogene MYC and losses of the tumor suppressor genes NKX3-1, PTEN and RB1, indicating assay reliability. The estimated burden of CNAs was significantly associated with Gleason score, pathological T stage, surgical margin status and biochemical recurrence. Further, genomic losses or gains in specific chromosomal arms were significantly associated with worse BCR-free survival. Copy number signatures extracted from the LPWGS data showed potential for risk stratifying patients, where signatures S1 and S2 showed significant association to worse BCR-free survival compared to S3. Our study provides clinical validation of the associations between CNAs and tumor aggressiveness in an independent and representative RP cohort, while demonstrating the feasibility of performing LPWGS of FFPE tumor tissue for cost-effective assessment of CNAs.
Quantification of ambient PM2.5 concentrations adjacent to informal brick kilns in the Vhembe District using low-cost sensors
Authors: Aniyikaiye Tolulope Elizabeth , Piketh Stuart J. , Edokpayi Joshua Nosa
Published: December 2023

The widespread exposure to ambient PM2.5 poses a substantial health risk globally, with a more pronounced impact on low- to medium-income nations. This study investigates the spatiotemporal distribution of PM2.5 in the communities hosting informal brickmaking industries in Vhembe District. Utilizing Dylos DC1700, continuous monitoring of PM2.5 was conducted at nine stations adjacent to informal brick kilns from March 2021 to February 2022. The study determined the correction factor for PM2.5 measurements obtained from the Dylos DC1700 when it was collocated with the GRIMM Environmental Dust Monitor 180. Additionally, the diurnal and seasonal variations across monitoring stations were assessed, and potential PM2.5 sources were identified. The study also evaluated the compliance of ambient PM2.5 concentrations across the stations with the South African National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) limits. Annual PM2.5 concentrations for the stations ranged from 22.6 to 36.2 μgm−3. Diurnal patterns exhibited peak concentrations in the morning and evening, while seasonal variations showed higher concentrations in winter and lower concentrations in summer and spring. All monitoring stations reported the highest daily exceedance with respect to the daily NAAQS limit in the winter. Major PM2.5 sources included domestic biomass combustion, vehicular emissions, industrial emissions, and construction sites. Well-calibrated low-cost sensors could be employed in suburb regions with scarce air quality data. Findings from the study could be used for developing mitigation strategies to reduce health risks associated with PM2.5 exposure in the area.
Luminescence and photocatalytic degradation of indigo carmine in the presence of Sm3+doped ZnS nanoparticles
Authors: Lianmawii Lal , Singh N. Mohondas
Published: December 2023

Industrial wastewater discharge is well acknowledged to constitute a significant environmental and public health risk. In addition, synthetic dyes used in the textile sector are major culprits in water pollution. The amount of water polluted by these dyes is simply staggering. We urgently address this issue to protect our planet and health. The degradation of indigo carmine dye in the presence of Sm3+-doped ZnS nanoparticles is reported in this study and characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDX, TEM, BET, PL, UV, etc. The particle size calculated from the Scherrer equation was 3–12 nm. When excited at 395 nm, Sm3+ undergoes f–f transitions, which are visible as prominent peaks in the photoluminescence spectrum at 559, 595, and 642 nm wavelengths. The catalyst showed vigorous catalytic activity for dye degradation, with a 93% degradation rate when used at 15 mg/L catalyst within 210 min. The reaction was found to have pseudo-first-order kinetics. After applying the Freundlich and Langmuir data, the Langmuir isotherm offered the best fit. The findings indicate that the Sm3+-doped ZnS catalyst might be successfully used in the degradation of dyes present in the environment. Doping with Sm3+ ions can significantly change the photocatalytic breakdown of indigo carmine and the luminescence characteristics of ZnS.
The first identification of cronstedtite in Cu–Ni–PGE ores of the Talnakh intrusion
Authors: Yakich T. Yu. , Zhimuleva E. S. , Rudmin M. A. , Ruban A. S. , Maximov P. N. , Shaldybin M. V.
Published: December 2023

We present new mineralogical data of cronstedtite from the Southern-2 orebody, located in the South-Western branch of the Talnakh intrusion (Noril’sk area) composed of massive sulfides in which the total amount of oxides and silicates does not exceed 1–3 vol%. The petrographic and mineralogical features of these ores indicated occurrence of fine-grained, fibrous needle like clusters < 50-µm-sized grains of cronstedtite (7.09 Å along its c-axis). This mineral confirmed by a number of analytical techniques (powder X-ray diffraction of balk samples, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman and Infrared spectroscopy). Cronstedtite sporadically contains signals of Al, Ni, Ca and filling the cracks and cavities between sulfides of copper (chalcopyrite) and iron (pyrrhotite, pentlandite). In some cases, cronstedtite contains micron-sized PGM, and associates with magnetite. According the X-ray diffraction analysis of the bulk massive ores besides cronstendtite are established kaolinite, gypsum, calcite, quartz, and cristobalite. The findings of cronstedtite in Noril’sk area have never been mentioned publicly before. Its occurrence is the northernmost known locality in the world. Our results imply that the formation of cronstedtite in the Talnakh intrusion could be possible by the active participation low-temperatures fluids within the relatively near-surface (< 2 km of paleosurface) conditions of intrusion emplacement, in contrast to other deep-seated supergiant Cu–Ni–PGE deposits in the world. The conditions of formation in isolated cavities in fresh pyrrhotite-pentlandite-chalcopyrite massive ores of deep level of the Talnakh intrusion could be favorable for the formation of cronstendtite.
Physical healing as a function of perceived time
Authors: Aungle Peter , Langer Ellen
Published: December 2023

In this study we wounded study participants following a standardized procedure and manipulated perceived time to test whether perceived time affected the rate of healing. We measured the amount of healing that occurred across three conditions using a within-subjects design: Slow Time (half as fast as clock time), Normal Time (clock time), and Fast Time (twice as fast as clock time). Based on the theory of mind–body unity—which posits simultaneous and bidirectional influences of mind on body and body on mind—we hypothesized that wounds would heal faster or slower when perceived time was manipulated to be experienced as longer or shorter respectively. Although the actual elapsed time was 28 min in all three conditions, significantly more healing was observed in the Normal Time condition compared to the Slow Time condition, in the Fast Time condition compared to the Normal Time condition, and in the Fast Time condition compared to the Slow Time condition. These results support the hypothesis that the effect of time on physical healing is directly affected by one’s psychological experience of time, independent of the actual elapsed time.
Effect of social influence, environmental awareness, and safety affordance on actual use of 5G technologies among Chinese students
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad Farrukh , Xu Shuo , Khan Kanwal Iqbal , Hasnain Muhammad Faisal
Published: December 2023

5G technology continues to evolve, and its potential to revolutionize various aspects of society is becoming increasingly evident. However, the successful adoption and utilization of 5G technology depends on various factors, particularly among consumers expected to be early adopters and critical drivers of technological advancements. This study investigates the effect of social influence, environmental awareness, and safety affordance on Chinese university students' actual use of 5G (AU5G) technologies. It also analyzed the mediating role of trustworthiness and intention to use 5G (ITU5G) between them and the moderating role of facilitation conditions between trustworthiness and ITU5G. Data was collected from university students (n = 364) in Beijing and was examined employing the structural equation modelling (SEM) approach. The outcomes confirm that trustworthiness and ITU5G significantly mediate the relationship between social influence, environmental awareness, and safety affordance on AU5G technologies among Chinese students. Further, the supportive facilitation conditions strengthen the relationship between trustworthiness and ITU5G. These findings are backed by UTAUT2 models that support the technology acceptance and adoption among the users. The study outcomes can help policymakers design strategies to address potential barriers and encourage greater uptake of 5G services among university students.
Factors affecting total protein and lactoferrin in human milk
Authors: Kulesza-Brończyk Bożena , Bień Agnieszka , Sobieraj Piotr , Orczyk-Pawiłowicz Magdalena , Lis-Kuberka Jolanta , Czosnykowska-Łukacka Matylda , Bzikowska-Jura Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate factors affecting total, true protein and lactoferrin (Lf) concentrations in human milk (HM) and to evaluate the changes in protein concentrations over the course of lactation (first to sixth month postpartum). HM samples were collected from exclusively breastfeeding mothers during six time periods (1–6 months postpartum); 198 breast milk samples were collected in total. The concentrations of total and true protein in HM were determined using the MIRIS human milk analyzer (HMA). The assessment of HM protein content was also performed in skim HM samples and quantified by bicinchoninic methods with the Bicinchoninic Acid Protein Assay Kit. In turn, Lf content in skim HM samples was determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in accordance with a slightly modified procedure. In the first month of lactation total protein concentration was negatively correlated with maternal pre-pregnancy BMI (r = − 0.397;p = 0.022), whereas in the third month postpartum, positive correlation with maternal age was found (r = 0.399;p = 0.021). Considering Lf concentration, in the first month of lactation, it was positively correlated with baby’s birth weight (r = 0.514;p = 0.002). In the next months (from second to sixth) no relationships between Lf concentration and maternal and infants’ factors were observed. The concentration of protein and Lf in HM changes dynamically throughout lactation. Maternal and infant characteristics may impact the HM protein and Lf content, especially in the first month postpartum.
Remote sensing evidence for population growth of isolated indigenous societies in Amazonia
Authors: Walker Robert S. , Flinn Mark V. , Prall Sean P. , Hamilton Marcus J.
Published: December 2023

Isolated indigenous societies who actively avoid sustained peaceful contact with the outside world are critically endangered. Last year, “Tanaru”, the lone surviving man of his tribe for at least 35 years, died in Southwest Amazonia, marking the latest cultural extinction event in a long history of massacres, enslavement, and epidemics. Yet in the upper reaches of the Amazon Basin, dozens of resilient isolated tribes still manage to survive. Remote sensing is a reliable method of monitoring the population dynamics of uncontacted populations by quantifying the area cleared for gardens and villages, along with the fire detections associated with the burning of those clearings. Remote sensing also provides a method to document the number of residential structures and village fissioning. Only with these longitudinal assessments can we better evaluate the current no-contact policies by the United Nations and governments, along with the prospects for the long-term survival of isolated tribes. While the world’s largest isolated indigenous metapopulation, Pano speakers in Acre, Brazil, appears to be thriving, other smaller isolated populations disconnected from metapopulations continue to be extremely vulnerable to external threats. Our applied anthropological conservation approach is to provide analyses of publicly available remote sensing datasets to help inform policies that enhance the survival and well-being of isolated cultural groups.
Hyperactive Natural Killer cells in Rag2 knockout mice inhibit the development of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Sugimoto Emi , Li Jingmei , Hayashi Yasutaka , Iida Kohei , Asada Shuhei , Fukushima Tsuyoshi , Tamura Moe , Shikata Shiori , Zhang Wenyu , Yamamoto Keita , Kawabata Kimihito Cojin , Kawase Tatsuya , Saito Takeshi , Yoshida Taku , Yamazaki Satoshi , Kaito Yuta , Imai Yoichi , Denda Tamami , Ota Yasunori , Fukuyama Tomofusa , Tanaka Yosuke , Enomoto Yutaka , Kitamura Toshio , Goyama Susumu
Published: December 2023

Immunotherapy has attracted considerable attention as a therapeutic strategy for cancers including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this study, we found that the development of several aggressive subtypes of AML is slower in Rag2−/− mice despite the lack of B and T lymphocytes, even compared to the immunologically normal C57BL/6 mice. Furthermore, an orally active p53-activating drug shows stronger antileukemia effect on AML in Rag2−/− mice than C57BL/6 mice. Intriguingly, Natural Killer (NK) cells in Rag2−/− mice are increased in number, highly express activation markers, and show increased cytotoxicity to leukemia cells in a coculture assay. B2m depletion that triggers missing-self recognition of NK cells impairs the growth of AML cells in vivo. In contrast, NK cell depletion accelerates AML progression in Rag2−/− mice. Interestingly, immunogenicity of AML keeps changing during tumor evolution, showing a trend that the aggressive AMLs generate through serial transplantations are susceptible to NK cell-mediated tumor suppression in Rag2−/− mice. Thus, we show the critical role of NK cells in suppressing the development of certain subtypes of AML using Rag2−/− mice, which lack functional lymphocytes but have hyperactive NK cells.
FTO-mediated m6A demethylation regulates GnRH expression in the hypothalamus via the PLCβ3/Ca2+/CAMK signalling pathway
Authors: Zang Shaolian , Yin Xiaoqin , Li Pin
Published: December 2023

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a crucial role in the development and functional homeostasis of the central nervous system. The fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene, which is highly expressed in the hypothalamus, is closely related to female pubertal development. In this study, we found that m6A methylation decreased in the hypothalamus gradually with puberty and decreased in female rats with precocious puberty. FTO expression was increased at the same time. Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) showed that the m6A methylation of PLCβ3, a key enzyme of the Ca2+ signalling pathway, was decreased significantly in the hypothalamus in precocious rats. Upregulating FTO increased PLCβ3 expression and activated the Ca2+ signalling pathway, which promoted GnRH expression. Dual-luciferase reporter and MeRIP-qPCR assays confirmed that FTO regulated m6A demethylation of PLCβ3 and promoted PLCβ3 expression. Upon overexpressing FTO in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) in female rats, we observed advanced puberty onset. Meanwhile, PLCβ3 and GnRH expression in the hypothalamus increased significantly, and the Ca2+ signalling pathway was activated. Our study demonstrates that FTO enhances GnRH expression, which promotes puberty onset, by regulating m6A demethylation of PLCβ3 and activating the Ca2+ signalling pathway.
Semi-empirical approach to assess externally-induced photoluminescence linewidth broadening of halide perovskite nanocrystals with particle-size distribution
Authors: Jang Hyun Myung , Lee Song Hee , Jang Kyung Yeon , Park Jinwoo , Lee Tae-Woo
Published: December 2023

Colloidal nanocrystals (NCs) can be used to prepare high-color-purity metal halide perovskites (MHPs) for light-emitting displays. However, the NCs have a finite particle-size distribution, which broadens the linewidth of photoluminescence spectra under strong quantum confinement, and thereby degrades the color purity of the MHPs. This paper presents a simple method to quantify this externally-introduced broadening of linewidth $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\Gamma }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{SD}}}}}}}$$

Γ

SD

by combining experimental size-distribution histogram with size-dependent photoluminescence-wavelength (PL-$${{{{{\boldsymbol{\lambda }}}}}}$$
λ
) curve. We develop a semi-empirical method to estimate the other three contributions to the experimentally-measured full-width at half-maximum, $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\Gamma }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{EXP}}}}}}}$$

Γ

EXP

. Namely: the intrinsic linewidth $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\Gamma }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{LO}}}}}}}$$

Γ

LO

caused by exciton-longitudinal optical (LO) phonon Fröhlich coupling; the inhomogeneous linewidth $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\Gamma }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{o}}}}}}}$$

Γ

o

caused by imperfections-related scattering, and the broadening $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\Gamma }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{QC}}}}}}}$$

Γ

QC

due to the quantum-confinement effect. We show that $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\Gamma }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{LO}}}}}}}$$

Γ

LO

of a nanocrystal decreases together with the particle size, disappearing at 1.6 nm radius. Finally, we show that $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\Gamma }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{LO}}}}}}}$$

Γ

LO

is correlated with the degree of Fröhlich-polaron formation, hence proportional to the long-range LO-phonon-electron coupling.
Widespread diffuse venting and large microbial iron-mounds in the Red Sea
Authors: van der Zwan Froukje M. , Augustin Nico , Petersen Sven , Altalhi Sharifah M. , Schultz Júnia , Peixoto Raquel S. , Follmann Jörg , Anker Arthur , Benzoni Francesca , Garcia Paredes Evelyn R. , Al Malallah Murtadha , Shepard Lera , Ouhssain Mustapha , Jägerup S. Beatrice , Jones Burton H. , Rosado Alexandre S.
Published: December 2023

For decades, hydrothermal activity along the Red Sea Rift was only inferred from metalliferous sediments and hot brines. Active hydrothermal fluid discharge was never directly observed from this young ocean basin, but could be key to understanding the evolution of hydrothermal vent fields and associated life. Here we report the discovery of widespread diffuse venting at Hatiba Mons, the largest axial volcano in the Red Sea. The active vent fields are composed of iron-oxyhydroxide mounds, host thriving microbial communities and are larger and more abundant than those known from any other (ultra) slow-spreading mid-ocean ridge. Diffuse venting, controlled by intense faulting, and the lack of vent-specific macrofauna, are likely causes for the abundant microbial mats that dominate and built up the hydrothermal mounds. These microbe-rich hydrothermal vent fields, occurring in a warm ocean, may be analogous to Precambrian environments hosting early life and supporting the formation of large iron deposits.
Broadening scientific engagement and inclusivity in IPCC reports through collaborative technology platforms
Authors: De-Gol Anthony Jude , Le Quéré Corinne , Smith Adam J. P. , Aubin Le Quéré Marianne
Published: December 2023

The growing number of scientific publications on climate change has outstripped the capacity of individuals to keep up with the literature, even when confined to selected sub-topics such as chapter sections of IPCC reports. The IPCC would benefit from the assistance of modern technology, the engagement and insights of a far larger pool of experts, and more frequent updates. Here we describe how technology can be tailored to provide asynchronous and connected platforms that can enhance expert’s collaborations through their potential for scalability and inclusivity, and help keep assessments up-to-date. We detail our experience with the ScienceBrief.org platform, which was developed and used during 2017–2021. We show that the timely release of short scientific briefs (e.g. on wildfires), made possible by the platform, led to broad and accurate coverage of science in mainstream and social media, including policy-oriented websites, and therefore served to broaden public exposure and understanding of science, and counter climate misinformation. While a good visual interface and user flow were necessary, incentives were key for expert’s engagement with the platform, which, while positive, remained low. We suggest that a collaborative technology platform like ScienceBrief, tailored to support a modernised process of elaborating IPCC reports, could greatly enhance IPCC assessments by making them more open and accessible, further increasing transparency. It would also enable the comprehensive inclusion of evidence and facilitate broad and high-quality scientific engagement, including from early careers and scientists from around the world. This could first be tested at the scoping stage.
Negative plant-soil feedbacks disproportionally affect dominant plants, facilitating coexistence in plant communities
Authors: Goossens Elias P. , Minden Vanessa , Van Poucke Flor , Olde Venterink Harry
Published: December 2023

Plant-soil feedbacks (PSFs) are suggested to be major drivers of plant species coexistence and exotic invasions in natural plant communities, where species with more positive PSFs are thought to be more abundant in communities. Most evidence for this comes from mesocosm experiments with single species, but whether the results are transposable to diverse plant communities is mostly not verified and remains debated. We performed a combined monoculture and community experiment to test whether PSFs in monocultures predict PSFs in communities, and to infer the role of PSFs in invasive plant success. We found that (1) PSFs from monocultures were poor predictors for PSFs in plant communities, (2) competitive strength of invasive species did not consistently depend on PSF, and (3) dominant species experienced a significantly stronger negative PSFs than non-dominant species when grown in community. Hence, PSFs of plant species in monocultures seem less predictive for their abundance in plant communities or for invasibility than previously assumed. Nevertheless, PSF—and particularly negative PSF—seems indeed a major driver of plant species coexistence, with a strong species-specific pathogenic effect on dominant plants facilitating the persistence of rare species.
Improving combination cancer immunotherapy by manipulating dual immunomodulatory signals with enzyme-triggered, cell-penetrating peptide-mediated biomodulators
Authors: Pang Guibin , Chen Piao , Cao Xuewei , Yu Huan , Zhang Leshuai W. , Zhao Jian , Wang Fu-Jun
Published: December 2023

Bifunctional chimeric protein containing PP1-disrupting sequence induced calreticulin exposure and reversed immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing antitumor effect.
Accelerating nano-XANES imaging via feature selection
Authors: Tetef Samantha , Pattammattel Ajith , Chu Yong S. , Chan Maria K. Y. , Seidler Gerald T.
Published: December 2023

We utilize feature selection to reduce experimental time by ∼80% of a nanoscale X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XANES) spectroscopy imaging study of a sample with Fe-bearing mineral phases.
Asymmetric edge supercurrents in MoTe2 Josephson junctions
Authors: Chen Pingbo , Wang Jinhua , Wang Gongqi , Ye Bicong , Zhou Liang , Wang Le , Wang Jiannong , Zhang Wenqing , Chen Weiqiang , Mei Jiawei , He Hongtao
Published: December 2023

The supercurrent distribution in Nb/MoTe2/Nb Josephson junctions suggests the existence of higher order hinge states in MoTe2. Asymmetric Josephson effect is also observed, indicating their application potential in superconducting diodes.
Green synthesis of heterolayered 2D nanohybrid catalytic hydrogel cell for environmentally-friendly water splitting
Authors: Noh Seonmyeong , Le Thanh-Hai , Kim Changjun , Ju Minseong , Lee Haney , Nataraj S. K. , Yoon Hyeonseok
Published: December 2023

A simple and environmentally friendly liquid-phase co-exfoliation strategy is proposed to create heterolayered 2D nanohybrids with excellent electrocatalytic performance for hydrogen and oxygen production when integrated into a hydrogel cell.
Sensory and Functional Recovery after Suprafascial Free Flap in Foot and Ankle Reconstruction
Authors: Akaranuchat Nutthawut , Kongkunnavat Natthapong
Published: December 2023

Background The goals of foot and ankle defect reconstruction include weight-bearing and shearing tolerance, good mobilization, regaining protective sensation, and good contour for footwear fitting. This study reports the outcomes of foot and ankle defect reconstruction with suprafascial free flaps relative to sensory and functional recovery.

Methods Eleven suprafascial free flaps were performed, which were supra-Scarpa fascial flaps in seven cases. Sensory recovery was assessed by Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test (SWMT), and functional outcomes were measured using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) questionnaire at preoperative and subsequent visits.

Results Eleven cases (age range: 21–83 years, seven males, mean body mass index: 24.8 kg/m2) were operated and the mean defect size was 109.8 cm2. The anterolateral thigh, medial sural artery perforator, and superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flaps were used. The mean flap thickness was 0.8 cm. Average flap harvesting time and operative time were 83.9 and 452.0 minutes. Half of cases achieved 10 g SWMT (two cases regained baseline sensation) by 6-months post-operation, and all cases regained either 10 g SWMT or baseline sensation within 12 months. Significant improvement in the activities of daily living (ADL) and sports subscales was observed at 3 months (p < 0.05). Significant improvement in the global function rating scale for both ADL and sports was achieved by 6 months (p < 0.05). None experienced the recurrent ulcer.

Conclusion Suprafascial free flap is a good reconstruction strategy for managing complex foot and ankle defects that yields favorable outcomes including adequate protective sensation and significant functional improvement.
Unlocking the monetary value: investigating the importance of quality information in Australian red meat chains
Authors: Zhang Yue , Hoang Nam , Baker Derek , Morales Emilio , Griffith Garry
Published: December 2023

Context This study assesses the monetary value of product quality information, specifically feedback from slaughter and production methods, within the Australian beef and sheep meat supply chains. Aims The primary objective was to investigate the value assigned by supply chain actors to product quality information, measured as willingness to pay for receiving it or willingness to accept payment for providing it. The study also aimed to explore how the value of this information varies based on information quality and quantity. Methods A contingent valuation approach was employed, utilising survey data from 104 producers. Logit models were used to identify the factors influencing meat producers’ willingness to accept payment and willingness to pay. Key results Over one-third of cattle and sheep producers expressed interest in receiving feedback from slaughter information and providing production methods information. Production methods information had the highest mean value at the premium information quality and quantity level, with values of AU$20.49/head in the beef industry and AU$10.13/head in the sheep industry. Conversely, feedback from slaughter information had the lowest mean value at the low information quality and quantity level, with values of AU$0.83/carcass in beef and AU$0.14/carcass in sheep. Farmers’ experience and education level significantly influenced their willingness to accept payment and willingness to pay for product quality information. Conclusions A significant proportion of producers within the Australian beef and sheep meat supply chains express a desire to provide or pay for product quality information. The value assigned to this information demonstrates a positive relationship with higher information quality and quantity. However, variations in expressed value of different information types, and the influence of farmer and farm characteristics, suggest the presence of chain failures that disrupt information valuation. Implications These findings have important implications for improving the performance of the red meat supply chains. Understanding the factors that influence the valuation of product quality information allows stakeholders to develop targeted strategies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of information exchange. This may involve addressing chain failures, and implementing measures to ensure consistent and accurate valuation of information. Ultimately, these improvements can contribute to enhanced decision-making processes and overall supply chain performance in the Australian beef and sheep meat industry.
Response to soil compaction of the electrical resistivity tomography, induced polarisation, and electromagnetic induction methods: a case study in Belgium
Authors: Mansourian Danial , Vanderhasselt Adriaan , Cornelis Wim , Hermans Thomas
Published: December 2023

Context Soil compaction acts at different scales and is challenging to measure on field scales. Aims To evaluate soil compaction under a controlled traffic experiment, using three different geophysical methods. Methods Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Electromagnetic Induction (EMI), and Induced Polarisation (IP) were selected to map soil compaction. Two different ERT arrays and EMI geometries were selected with different spacings. The influences of configuration, electrode spacing, and the Depth of Investigation Index (DOI) were evaluated. Soil physical properties were measured in the Laboratory and in the field. Error models were developed to assess the accuracy of the ERT profiles and later correlated with EMI and soil physical results. Key results Penetration resistance measurements identified a compacted layer at 25 to 35 cm depth with a maximum value of 5 MPa under fixed tracks and bulk density of 1.52 Mg m−3, while lowest values were 1.4 MPa and 1.36 Mg m−3. The dipole–dipole (DD) 10 cm array was more accurate towards both soil properties and locating the zones of high resistivity. The IP method identified chargeability anomalies at the same depth as the resistivity anomalies, possibly indicating a similar origin. The EMI test was less successful in accurately determining the locations of the conductive areas. Conclusions A clear relationship between the absolute value of the resistivity/conductivity signals with the level of compaction was not found, yet patterns of lateral variations in resistivity were identified. Implications Further studies are needed to establish the concrete relationship between soil compaction and geophysical signals.
Prioritising interventions for the reduction of erosion in classical gullies: a modelling study
Authors: Prentice Matthew J. , Waud Mark W. , Loch-Wilkinson Samille C. , Hamilton David P. , Roberts Melanie E.
Published: December 2023

Context Gully erosion is a significant socioeconomic and environmental issue that affects agricultural productivity, infrastructure, and water quality of receiving waters. Despite a variety of interventions to prevent gully formation and rehabilitate existing gullies, cost-effective interventions are specific to individual gullies. Aims The aim of this study was to assess the performance of a suite of gully management interventions across three different classical gullies. Methods A one-dimensional process-based model, MERGE (modelling erosion resistance for gully erosion), was used to quantify the sediment yield exiting the gullies, in response to various management interventions. Key results The net decrease in sediment yield was 2.5–57.4% for each of four interventions applied in isolation and 51.2–78.7% in combination. Reductions in sediment yield for each intervention varied markedly among sites, by a factor of 2.6–78.3 in absolute terms. This resulted in a unique ranking of the interventions by their effectiveness for a given site. Overall, interventions applied in combination were most effective, outperforming those applied in isolation by a factor of 1.24–1.37, but the effect of applying interventions in combination was not additive. Conclusions This study demonstrates the ability of the gully erosion model MERGE to be a useful tool to identify and tailor effective intervention strategies for individual gullies, and be a useful guide for decision making for erosion management. Implications Analysis of expected benefits of gully remediation using tools such as MERGE is important for assessing options at gully sites due to their widely varying response.
Laser self-mixing interference displacement signal filtering method based on empirical mode decomposition and wavelet threshold
Authors: Guo Changying , Wang Qi
Published: December 2023

In laser self-mixing interferometry displacement measurement, noise interference has a significant impact on the measurement results. To improve measurement accuracy, this paper proposes a filtering method that combines empirical mode decomposition (EMD) with wavelet thresholding. First, the signal is decomposed into several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) using EMD. Then, wavelet thresholding is applied to each IMF. Subsequently, the processed IMFs are reconstructed to achieve signal filtering. Finally, by integrating the principles of interpolation and fringe counting, the reconstructed displacement signal is recovered, realizing accurate displacement measurement. This paper presents comprehensive simulation analyses and experimental validations for the proposed method. The accuracy of the displacement recovery is quantitatively evaluated using the absolute error and standard error, comparing the recovered displacement signal with the actual displacement. The experimental results demonstrate that the laser self-mixing interferometry displacement signal filtering method based on EMD and wavelet thresholding has high accuracy.
Monitoring robot machine tool sate via neural ODE and BP-GA
Authors: Zhu Guangyi , Zeng Xi , Gong Zheng , Gao Zhuohan , Ji Renquan , Zeng Yisen , Wang Pei , Lu Congda
Published: December 2023

Tool wear during robotic polishing affects material removal rates and surface roughness, leading to erratic and inconsistent polishing quality. Therefore, a method that can predict the tool state is needed to replace the robot end tool in time. In this paper, based on the cutting-edge neural ordinary differential equations (Neural ODE) and BP neural network optimization based on genetic algorithm (BP-GA), we propose a method to identify the tool state during robotic machining: firstly, a new training method of Neural ODE is proposed to avoid the model from falling into poor stationary points, and then on this basis, Neural ODE is utilized to predict the changes of vibration signals during robot machining; secondly, the predicted vibration signals of the tool are processed using variable modal decomposition method to extract the eigen kurtosis index and envelope entropy of the modal function as the vibration signal eigenvectors, and compare them with the traditional vibration signal eigenvectors. Finally, the predicted tool states were identified using BP-GA, and numerical experiments yielded an F1 score of 91.76% and an accuracy of 96.55% for model identification.
A novel process control method for remote calibration based on improved multiscale permutation entropy and dynamic Hotelling’s T2 control chart
Authors: Wang Quan , Lei Min , Zhang Jun , Wang Huan , Qi Xin
Published: December 2023

Remote calibration (RC) is a new promising technology for electric power instrument calibration. However, due to the inevitable impact of external environmental changes and internal insulation aging during the transportation, installation, and measurement processes involved in RC, the metrological performance of relevant instruments may deteriorate. Therefore, quality control of electric power instruments during RC is of great significance. In this paper, a novel process control method for RC is proposed. First, from the physical characteristic perspective, an improved multiscale permutation entropy (IMPE) algorithm is designed to detect the complexity change point of the instrument system. Second, from the statistical characteristic perspective, a dynamic multivariable Hotelling’s T2 control chart (DMHTCC) is developed to detect the outliers within a time series measurement signal. Finally, a fusion scheme of IMPE and DMHTCC is presented to promote the validity and reliability of process control. The effectiveness of the proposed approach and its superiority over some traditional process control techniques is demonstrated through both simulative and experimental case studies.
Fast nonlinear cross-sparse filtering for rolling bearings compound fault diagnosis
Authors: Yao Shunxiang , Zhang Zongzhen , Han Baokun , Wang Jinrui , Zheng Jiansong
Published: December 2023

The investigation of faults in rotating machinery has been thoroughly examined. Among the different methods under exploration, sparse optimization-based techniques have arisen as a highly desirable approach. However, in real industrial environments, the collected bearing signals often contain a random impact component resulting from changes in working conditions and load mutations. When a machine malfunctions, it can readily induce and generate new faults, resulting in composite faults. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a novel multidimensional blind deconvolution method named fast nonlinear cross-sparse filtering (FNCr-SF). The FNCr-SF aims to separate weak compound faults under random impact interference. Various preprocessing techniques, including Z-score normalization and nonlinear sigmoid activation function, are employed to amplify the faint characteristics of compound faults and minimize the influence of random interference. Furthermore, the FNCr-SF method enables adaptive decomposition of fault components without the need for prior knowledge or pre-processing. This approach effectively reduces random interference and accurately detects compound faults in bearings. Experimental and simulation signals validate the effectiveness of the FNCr-SF method in compound fault detection, demonstrating its high accuracy and robustness.
Back to Michelson interferometer: a precise inspection system for industrial intricate structures defect detection
Authors: Xu Xincai , Gu Diyang , Gao Shaohua , Sun Lei , Lu Xingyu , Wang Kaiwei , Bai Jian
Published: December 2023

Quality inspection of injection molding products with intricate three-dimensional structures and diffuse reflection characteristics is a very important procedure in industrial production. However, the current inspection process for these products still heavily relies on visual inspection, which introduces various issues including low efficiency, and missing or false detection. While previous studies have utilized deep-learning methods in conjunction with specific optical sensors and imaging systems to detect defects, the intricate structure of injection molding products and the small magnitude of defects pose significant challenges in defect detection. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an inspection system based on Michelson interferometer capable of detecting and characterizing defects of injection molding products. Notably, by utilizing the light intensity modulation and an improved image differencing approach, this inspection system is capable of detecting defects with a magnitude as small as 0.1 mm and achieving a remarkable detection accuracy exceeding 93% on self-made datasets without utilizing phase information. The effectiveness of our method is validated by comparison with mainstream deep-learning-based defect detection methods and visual inspection methods.
A fault diagnosis method based on feature-level fusion of multi-sensor information for rotating machinery
Authors: Gao Tianyu , Yang Jingli , Zhang Baoqin , Li Yunlu , Zhang Huiyuan
Published: December 2023

Traditionally, most fault diagnosis work on rotating machinery is carried out on single sensor datasets. However, the single feature source may suffer from missing or inaccurate features, which is especially sluggish for fault diagnosis tasks under noise interference. Feature-level fusion of multi-sensor information can obtain more comprehensive and abundant feature information, while improving the feature discrimination. Therefore, through feature-level fusion of multi-sensor information, a parallel multi-scale attentional convolutional neural network (PMSACNN) is proposed in this paper to achieve rotating machinery fault diagnosis. A dilated wide convolutional layer is designed to extract the short-time features of signals with noise by performing sparse sampling on them. The multi-scale structure is constructed to capture the diversity feature information of signals, and the feature-level stitching of multi-sensor information is realized by the parallel input mechanism. Feature fusion is achieved by adaptively correcting the importance of different channel features by using channel attention. The global averaging pooling operation is introduced to reduce the number of parameters and improve the efficiency of the model operation. The effectiveness of PMSACNN is verified by using the bearing dataset acquired from the mechanical comprehensive diagnosis simulation platform. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method outperforms the existing methods of this field in terms of fault diagnosis accuracy and noise immunity, which can improve the reliability and safety of rotating machinery.
Study on the regional ASF prediction method based on the ordinary kriging interpolation
Authors: Di Jianchen , Xu Jiangning , Fu Jun , Li Bao , Wu Miao
Published: December 2023

The eLoran system functions as a robust backup to the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), providing substantial signal power, robust anti-jamming capabilities, and an easily maintainable ground system. Nonetheless, the propagation time delay of the system, primarily driven by the Additional Secondary Phase Factor (ASF), significantly influences the positioning accuracy. Compensating for ASF can effectively enhance the positioning performance. Traditional propagation delay theories frequently yield substantial discrepancies between the predicted and measured values in regions characterized by extended propagation distances and varying topographic features. To address this issue, we conducted ASF measurements within a selected test area using a limited number of measurement points. We employed the ordinary Kriging interpolation method to predict ASF values across the entire test area, and used cross-validation to validate our predictions. The results confirmed the accuracy and effectiveness of the Kriging interpolation algorithm in predicting ASF values within specific regions. The cross-validation demonstrated that the errors remained within acceptable ranges. Furthermore, we applied Ordinary Kriging, Inverse Distance Weighting, and Radial Basis Function Interpolation methods to evaluate the positioning accuracy of the test area before and after ASF correction. Compared to other methods, using the Ordinary Kriging interpolation algorithm for predicting ASF values resulted in a corrected positioning accuracy of up to 68.8 m at various test locations. This approach effectively resolves the challenge of low accuracy in theoretical calculations in complex environments. By utilizing ordinary Kriging interpolation, we required measurements of only a few ASF values within a specific region to create an ASF correction map, addressing the challenges related to inaccurate theoretical calculations in complex pathways and avoiding time-consuming and labor-intensive large-scale measurements. The results of this study offer valuable theoretical support for improving the accuracy of land-based navigation systems.