bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parametric Analysis of Nonlinear Oscillations of the “Rotor–Weakly Conductive Viscous Fluid–Foundation” System under the Action of a Magnetic Field
Authors: Kydyrbekuly Almatbek , Zhauyt Algazy , Ibrayev Gulama-Garip Alisher
Published: November 2023

The generalized dynamic model of the rotor system, presented in this paper, is the first model that takes into account the interconnected oscillations of the “rotor–weakly conductive fluid–foundation” system under the action of parameters such as fluid and rotor motion, linear eccentricity, friction forces, foundation vibration and nonlinear characteristics of rolling bearings, as well as the action of a magnetic field on the fluid. Consistent equations of motion for the “rotor–weakly conductive fluid–foundation” system were derived and solved analytically. Forced and natural oscillations of the system were analyzed, and the distinctive features of the rotor system dynamics were revealed. The values of frequencies and amplitudes, which are one of the main factors determining the dynamic behavior of the system, were obtained and studied.
The Human-Centredness Metric: Early Assessment of the Quality of Human-Centred Design Activities
Authors: Sankowski Olga , Krause Dieter
Published: November 2023

Human-centred design as a research field is characterised by multidisciplinarity and a variety of many similar methods. Previous research attempted to classify existing methods into groups and categories, e.g., according to the degree of user involvement. The research question here is the following: How can human-centredness be measured and evaluated based on resulting product concepts? The goal of the paper is to present and apply a new metric—the Human-Centredness Metric (HCM)—for the early estimation of the quality of any human-centred activity based on the four goals of human-centred design. HCM was employed to evaluate 16 concepts, utilising a 4-point Likert scale, covering four different everyday products that were created by four students, which used three different human-centred design methods for this. The first concept was created without the application of any additional human-centred design method. The results illuminated trends regarding the impact of additional human-centred design methods on the HCM score. However, statistical significance remained elusive, potentially due to a series of limitations such as concept complexity, the small number of concepts, and the early developmental stage. The study’s limitations underscore the need for refined items and expanded samples to better gauge the impact of human-centred methods on product development.
Integrating SAR and Geographic Information Data Revealing Land Subsidence and Geological Risks of Shanghai City
Authors: Wang Xiaying , Yang Yumei , Xia Yuanping , Chen Shuaiqiang , She Yulin
Published: November 2023

As one of the most developed coastal cities, Shanghai experiences long-term ground surface settlement disasters during urban expansion periods, which has adverse effects on economic development. To date, many studies regarding Shanghai’s ground surface sedimentation have been conducted with microwave remote sensing technology. However, the systematic and timely analysis of the time series deformation results and risk evaluation is still absent. Therefore, we focused on the following aspects in this study: Firstly, revealing in detail the time series deformation characteristics during 2016–2022 with Sentinel-1A images and verifying the deformation results with different InSAR technologies and SAR data. Secondly, fully discussing the reasons for ground sedimentation from the aspects of subway construction, land use type, monthly rainfall, and human activities, and studying the correlation between surface deformation and rainfall with the singular spectrum analysis (SSA) method. Finally, conducting a risk evaluation and risk level division using the entropy method, combining the long time series deformation results and geoinformation data. Meanwhile, the following conclusions were reached: 1. There are six typical deformation areas, distributed in the Baoshan District, Minhang District, and Jinshan District of Pudong New District from 2016 to 2022. The maximum annual rate is −32.3 mm/a, and the maximum cumulative sedimentation reaches −188.6 mm. 2. Ground sedimentation is mainly due to engineering construction during city development and verifies the weak correlation between surface deformation and rainfall. 3. We obtained different levels of geological hazard risk areas, and Huangpu, Yangpu, Hongkou District, the northwest area of Pudong New Area, and the vicinity of Dishui Lake belong to higher-risk areas. The above time series deformation research results and systematic analysis of induced factors, and the higher-risk-area division, will provide valuable insights for urban risk management.
Numerical Investigations and Artificial Neural Network-Based Performance Prediction of a Centrifugal Fan Having Innovative Hub Geometry Designs
Authors: Nagaraj Madhwesh , Karanth Kota Vasudeva
Published: November 2023

It is a well-known fact that air approaches the eye region of the rotating impeller of a centrifugal fan with shock-less entry conditions in an ideal scenario. The flow in this region is associated with induced swirl losses, leading to cumulative performance losses. Proper flow guidance in the vicinity of the eye region is essential to minimize possible flow losses. The flow guiding structure may be in the form of a projection or extrusion connected to the rotating impeller of the turbo machines and is generally named a hub. These attachments enhance the overall flow augmentation of the turbo machines in terms of static pressure improvement by reducing a significant amount of inlet turning losses. This article attempts to highlight the efficacy of hubs of various shapes and sizes on the pressure rise of the centrifugal fan using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Simulation results revealed that the optimized hub configuration yields about an 8.4% higher head coefficient and 8.6% higher relative theoretical efficiency than that obtained for the hub-less base configuration. This improvement in these paraments therefore also commemorates the global progress in energy efficiency as per the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 7 in particular. Simultaneously, in the Artificial Neural Network (ANN), a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) model is used to forecast the performance of a centrifugal fan with an optimized hub design. The results predicted by the ANN model are found to be in close agreement with the optimized hub shape’s numerical results.
Vector-Valued Analytic Functions Having Vector-Valued Tempered Distributions as Boundary Values
Authors: Carmichael Richard D.
Published: November 2023

Vector-valued analytic functions in Cn, which are known to have vector-valued tempered distributional boundary values, are shown to be in the Hardy space Hp,1≤p<2, if the boundary value is in the vector-valued Lp,1≤p<2, functions. The analysis of this paper extends the analysis of a previous paper that considered the cases for 2≤p≤∞. Thus, with the addition of the results of this paper, the considered problems are proved for all p,1≤p≤∞.
Ion-Selective Membranes Fabricated Using Finely Controlled Swelling of Non-Ionic Fluoropolymer for Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Jiang Fengjing , Xue Rui
Published: November 2023

Ion-selective membranes based on non-ionic polymers are promising for redox flow batteries due to their superior chemical stability and low cost. In this work, a poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) ion-selective membrane is successfully prepared using a solvent-controlled swelling method, where Nafion is used as a channel-forming promoter. The influences of Nafion on the channel formation of the membranes are studied. The results indicate that the addition of Nafion resin can greatly promote the formation of ion-conducting channels in the PVDF matrix. The obtained membranes show well-controlled proton conductivity and proton/vanadium selectivity. A battery test on a vanadium redox flow single cell is successfully performed. The energy efficiency of the cell equipped with the PVDF-based ion-selective membrane reaches 81.7% at a current density of 60 mA cm−2 and possesses excellent cycling stability and suppressed self-discharge after modification with Nafion.
An Exploration of Small Molecules That Bind Human Single-Stranded DNA Binding Protein 1
Authors: Schuurs Zachariah P. , Martyn Alexander P. , Soltau Carl P. , Beard Sam , Shah Esha T. , Adams Mark N. , Croft Laura V. , O’Byrne Kenneth J. , Richard Derek J. , Gandhi Neha S.
Published: November 2023

Human single-stranded DNA binding protein 1 (hSSB1) is critical to preserving genome stability, interacting with single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) through an oligonucleotide/oligosaccharide binding-fold. The depletion of hSSB1 in cell-line models leads to aberrant DNA repair and increased sensitivity to irradiation. hSSB1 is over-expressed in several types of cancers, suggesting that hSSB1 could be a novel therapeutic target in malignant disease. hSSB1 binding studies have focused on DNA; however, despite the availability of 3D structures, small molecules targeting hSSB1 have not been explored. Quinoline derivatives targeting hSSB1 were designed through a virtual fragment-based screening process, synthesizing them using AlphaLISA and EMSA to determine their affinity for hSSB1. In parallel, we further screened a structurally diverse compound library against hSSB1 using the same biochemical assays. Three compounds with nanomolar affinity for hSSB1 were identified, exhibiting cytotoxicity in an osteosarcoma cell line. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify small molecules that modulate hSSB1 activity. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that three of the compounds that were tested bound to the ssDNA-binding site of hSSB1, providing a framework for the further elucidation of inhibition mechanisms. These data suggest that small molecules can disrupt the interaction between hSSB1 and ssDNA, and may also affect the ability of cells to repair DNA damage. This test study of small molecules holds the potential to provide insights into fundamental biochemical questions regarding the OB-fold.
LncRNAs and CircRNAs as Strategies against Pathological Conditions Caused by a Hypoxic/Anoxic State
Authors: Anchesi Ivan , Schepici Giovanni , Mazzon Emanuela
Published: November 2023

Brain damage can be induced by oxygen deprivation. It is known that hypoxic or anoxic conditions can lead to changes in the expression levels of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which, in turn, can be related to Central Nervous System (CNS) injuries. Therefore, it could be useful to investigate the involvement of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), as well as the underlying mechanisms which are able to modulate them in brain damage induced by hypoxic or anoxic conditions. In this review, we focused on recent research that associates these conditions with long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). The results of this review demonstrate that the expression of both lncRNAs and circRNAs can be influenced by oxygen deprivation conditions and so they can contribute to inducing damage or providing neuroprotection by affecting specific molecular pathways. Furthermore, several experimental studies have shown that ncRNA activity can be regulated by compounds, thus also modifying their transcriptomic profile and their effects on CNS damages induced by hypoxic/anoxic events.
Preclinical Models of Visceral Sarcomas
Authors: Costa Alice , Gozzellino Livia , Nannini Margherita , Astolfi Annalisa , Pantaleo Maria Abbondanza , Pasquinelli Gianandrea
Published: November 2023

Visceral sarcomas are a rare malignant subgroup of soft tissue sarcomas (STSs). STSs, accounting for 1% of all adult tumors, are derived from mesenchymal tissues and exhibit a wide heterogeneity. Their rarity and the high number of histotypes hinder the understanding of tumor development mechanisms and negatively influence clinical outcomes and treatment approaches. Although some STSs (~20%) have identifiable genetic markers, as specific mutations or translocations, most are characterized by complex genomic profiles. Thus, identification of new therapeutic targets and development of personalized therapies are urgent clinical needs. Although cell lines are useful for preclinical investigations, more reliable preclinical models are required to develop and test new potential therapies. Here, we provide an overview of the available in vitro and in vivo models of visceral sarcomas, whose gene signatures are still not well characterized, to highlight current challenges and provide insights for future studies.
Prospective Matched Case-Control Study of Over-Early P100 Wave Latency in Migraine with Aura
Authors: Alshamrani Foziah J. , AlSheikh Mona Hmoud , Almuslim Noora , Al Azman Hatem , Alkhamis Fahad , Nazish Saima , Alnajashi Hind , Alsulaiman Abdulla
Published: November 2023

A sizable portion of the world’s population suffers from migraines with aura. The purpose of this research is to describe the findings of a case-control study that was carried out to gain a better understanding of how migraine with aura manifests. The research looked at the P100 delay of the visual-evoked potential in both eyes of 92 healthy people and 44 patients who suffered from migraines with visual aura. All of the participants in the study were recruited from King Fahad University Hospital in Saudi Arabia. Both sets of people had the same ancestry and originated from the same location. Patients who suffered from migraines with aura exhibited a significantly shorter P100 delay in both eyes compared to healthy controls (p = 0.001), which is evidence that their early visual processing was distinct. In order to arrive at these findings, we compared people who suffer from migraines with aura to people who do not suffer from migraines and used them as subjects. These findings contribute to the ongoing attempts to bring the disease under control and provide vitally significant new information regarding the functioning of headaches with auras. The primary focus of study in the future should be on determining the nature of the connection between issues with early visual processing and headaches with aura.
The Amplified DNA Logic Gates Based on Aptamer–Receptor Recognition for Cell Detection and Bioimaging
Authors: Wang Yajing , Wu Di , Cao Xiuping , Guo Yingshu
Published: November 2023

A powerful and accurate method for identifying and isolating cells would be of great importance due to its sensitivity, gentleness and effectiveness. Here, we designed a receptor-based DNA logic device that allows Boolean logic analysis of multiple cells. For ease of expression, the molecules on the cell surface that can bind to the aptamer are referred to as “receptors”. This DNA logic device sends signals based on cell surface sgc8c and sgc4f receptor expression by performing NOT, NOR, AND and OR logic operations, and amplifies and evaluates the signals using HCR. Meanwhile, the release of ICG from the endopore of HMSNs is controlled by affecting structural changes in the DNA logic device. This approach can accurately identify and treat multiple cells on demand based on the presence or absence of cell-specific receptors, facilitating the development of personalized medicine.
Capacitance Contribution of NIH/3T3 Cells Existing on and between Electrodes of an Impedance Biosensor
Authors: Kim Yeeun , Kang Dahyun , Kim Seokgyu , Hong Eunchae , Jang Moongyu
Published: November 2023

In this study, an impedance biosensor capable of real-time monitoring of the growth and drug reactions using NIH/3T3 cells was fabricated through a semiconductor process. With the fabricated impedance biosensor, the cell growth and drug reaction states are monitored in real-time, showing the validness of the developed biosensor. By using the developed impedance biosensor, we have investigated the capacitance contribution of NIH/3T3 cells existing on electrodes and between electrodes. To compare the capacitance value contributions of the cells on and between electrodes, wide- and narrow-gap electrode patterns are manufactured with 3.7 and 0.3 mm electrode gap spacings, respectively. From the detailed analysis, the capacitance contributions of NIH/3T3 cells existing on electrodes are estimated around less than 20 percent compared to the cells existing between electrodes. In other words, a minimized electrode area with maximized electrode spacing is the promising impedance biosensor design guide for accurate cell capacitance measurements.
G-Protein-Coupled Receptor 91-Dependent Signalling Does Not Influence Vascular Inflammation and Atherosclerosis in Hyperlipidaemic Mice
Authors: Griepke Silke , Trauelsen Mette , Nilsson Michelle D. , Hansen Jakob , Steffensen Lasse B. , Schwartz Thue W. , Ketelhuth Daniel F. J.
Published: November 2023

The TCA cycle intermediate metabolite ‘succinate’ has been proposed as an inflammatory mediator, influencing autoimmunity and allergic reactions, through ligation to its sensing receptor SUCNR1/GPR91. Whether GPR91-mediated signalling influences the chronic inflammatory process of atherosclerosis has never been investigated. The examination of publicly available datasets revealed that the SUCNR1 gene is expressed in human atherosclerotic plaques, especially in vascular smooth muscle cells. Using GPR91 knockout (Gpr91−/−) and wildtype (WT) littermates, made hyperlipidaemic with the overexpression of the gain-of-function mutated Pcsk9 and Western diet feeding, we showed that the full ablation of GPR91 did not accelerate atherosclerosis—lesions in the aortic arch 2.18 ± 0.48% vs. 1.64 ± 0.31%, and in the aortic roots 10.06 ± 0.91% vs. 10.67 ± 1.53% for Gpr91−/− and WT mice, respectively. In line with this, no differences between groups were observed for macrophage and T-cell infiltration in the plaque, as well as the polarization towards M1- or M2-like macrophages in the aorta, spleen and liver of Gpr91−/− and WT control mice. In conclusion, our study indicates that the global ablation of GPR91 signalling does not influence vascular inflammation or atherogenesis.
Stereoselective Synthesis of a Novel Series of Dispiro-oxindolopyrrolizidines Embodying Thiazolo[3,2-a]benzimidazole Motif: A Molecular Electron Density Theory Study of the Mechanism of the [3 + 2] Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Barakat Assem , Alshahrani Saeed , Al-Majid Abdullah Mohammed , Alamary Abdullah Saleh , Ali M. , Ríos-Gutiérrez Mar
Published: November 2023

A one-pot multi-component reaction was employed for the stereoselective synthesis of a novel set of dispiro-oxindolopyrrolizidines analogs incorporating a thiazolo[3,2-a]benzimidazole scaffold based on the [3 + 2] cycloaddition (32CA) reaction approach. The desired novel dispiro-oxindolopyrrolizidines 9a–d were achieved using the 32CA reaction of new ethylene derivatives based on thiazolo[3,2-a]benzimidazole moiety seven with thiazolidine derivatives eight and different substituted isatin compounds 5a–d (R = H, Cl, NO2, and Br). The final dispiro-oxindolopyrrolizidines cycloadducts were separated, purified, and fully characterized by means of a set of spectroscopic tools including IR, HNMR, CNMR, and MS. The Molecular Electron Density Theory (MEDT) was applied to explain the mechanism and stereoselectivity in the of the key 32CA reaction step. The reactive pseudo(mono)radical electronic structure of the in situ generated azomethine ylides and the high polar character of the corresponding 32CA reactions account for the low computed activation Gibbs free energies and total endo stereoselectivity of this kinetically controlled exergonic reaction. The computed relative Gibbs free activation energies of competitive reaction paths and regioisomers ratio distribution of 80:20 justify the major formation of 9a via the most favorable ortho/endo reaction path.
A Red-Emitting Fluorescence Probe for Rapid Detecting Exogenous and Endogenous Peroxynitrite in Living Cells with High Sensitivity and Selectivity
Authors: Jin Bing , Liu Jing , Jin Longsheng , Liu Weishuai , Liu Xiangjun
Published: November 2023

Peroxynitrite (ONOO−) has been revealed to play crucial roles in many physiological and pathological processes, and many diseases were proven to be associated with its misregulated production. The development of fluorescent probes meets the need for tracking ONOO− and gives a better understanding of its diverse mechanisms. In this work, a red-emitting fluorescent probe BP-ONOO was synthesized via functionalization of the rhodol-like fluorophore with a reactive site of hydrazide. The probe BP-ONOO exhibited high sensitivity, excellent selectivity, and short response time (less than 4 s) towards ONOO− under neutral or weak alkaline conditions. These attractive properties favor its application in real-time imaging of ONOO− in living cells, and the probe has been successfully applied for imaging the concentration levels of ONOO− in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells under drug stimulation.
Relationship between Parental Concerns about Social–Emotional Reciprocity Deficits and Their Children’s Final ASD Diagnosis
Authors: Saban-Bezalel Ronit , Avni Einat , Ben-Itzchak Esther , Zachor Ditza A.
Published: November 2023

Concerns raised by parents regarding their child’s development are compatible with the child’s final diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. A better understanding of the relationship between parental concerns and a final diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is therefore critical. In the current study, we compared the frequencies of parental concerns related to DSM-5 criteria for autism spectrum disorder between pair-matched groups with and without a final diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and determined which parental concerns predicted a final diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. The cohort included 80 participants (48–154 months of age, IQ > 70) assessed for a possible autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. Parental concerns were retrieved from the free-description portion of the introductory questions of the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised and analyzed to assess whether they corresponded to any of the seven DSM-5 criteria for ASD. The two groups only differed in the frequency of parental concerns relating to deficits in social–emotional reciprocity. Parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder were four times as likely to report deficits in social–emotional reciprocity. This finding highlights the significance of parental concerns regarding deficits in social–emotional reciprocity in predicting a final diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.
Improving the Mechanical and Electrochemical Performance of Additively Manufactured 8620 Low Alloy Steel via Boriding
Authors: Sabuz Ezazul Haque , Noor-A-Alam Mohammed , Haider Waseem , Shabib Ishraq
Published: November 2023

In this study, mechanical and electrochemical performance of borided additively manufactured (AM) and wrought 8620 low alloy steel were investigated and compared to their bare counterparts. The microstructure of borided 8620 exhibited the presence of FeB and Fe2B phases with a saw tooth morphology. Both AM and wrought samples with boride layers showed a similar performance in hardness, wear, potentiodynamic polarization (PD), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and linear polarization resistance (LPR) experiments. However, borided steels exhibited about an 8-fold increase in Vickers hardness and about a 6-fold enhancement in wear resistance compared to bare ones. Electrochemical experiments of borided specimens (both AM and wrought) in 0.1 M Na2S2O3 + 1 M NH4Cl solution revealed a 3–6-fold lower corrosion current density, about a 6-fold higher charge transfer resistance, and about a 6-fold lower double-layer capacitance, demonstrating an improved corrosion resistance compared to their bare counterparts. Post-corrosion surface analysis revealed the presence of thick sulfide and oxide layers on the bare steels, whereas dispersed corrosion particles were observed on the borided samples. The enhanced wear and electrochemical performance of the borided steels were attributed to the hard FeB/Fe2B layers and the reduced amount of adsorbed sulfur on their surface.
Forty Years of No-Take Protection Preserves Local Fish Diversity in a Small Urban Marine Protected Area
Authors: Davis Tom Robert , Harasti David
Published: November 2023

Small no-take marine protected areas (MPAs) in urban settings can fail to adequately protect biodiversity due to the combined effects of illegal fishing and species emigrating outside the protected area boundaries. Further assessment of the effectiveness of these areas is needed to provide insights into how they can best be managed to generate conservation benefits. The Fly Point no-take MPA in Port Stephens, New South Wales, Australia, was used as a case study, with the objective of examining whether a small urban no-take MPA can produce conservation benefits, despite the handicaps imposed by its size and location. Diver-based underwater visual census data, recording fish species and abundances, was obtained from 434 surveys conducted in Port Stephens (2009–2022) at three sites within the Fly Point no-take MPA and at three surrounding sites open to fishing. These data were analysed using permutational multivariate analysis of variance to determine whether no-take protection significantly benefited fish species richness and diversity. We found significantly higher species richness for sites in the no-take MPA than in surrounding areas and significant differences in assemblages between no-take and fished areas, driven in part by greater abundances of two fishery-targeted species in the no-take MPA (Acanthopagrus australis and Scorpis lineolata). Generally, fish diversity was also significantly higher for sites within the no-take MPA, although diversity was also high in fished sites adjacent to the no-take MPA. Study results demonstrate that small urban no-take MPAs can provide conservation benefits, especially when these areas have been protected for more than a decade and where high visibility and local stewardship enable adequate enforcement of no-take restrictions. Consequently, planning for MPAs in urban areas should endeavour to ensure high levels of public support and, ideally, should situate MPAs in highly visible locations, in order to maximise their conservation outcomes.
Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome: A Rare Clinical Image
Authors: Koul Prishita , Harjpal Pallavi , Raghumahanti Raghuveer
Published: November 2023

The term “Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome” (ODS) is synonymous with central pontine myelinolysis (CPM), denoting a condition characterised by brain damage, particularly affecting the white matter tracts of the pontine region. This damage arises due to the rapid correction of metabolic imbalances, primarily cases of hyponatremia. Noteworthy triggers encompass severe burns, liver transplantations, anorexia nervosa, hyperemesis gravidarum, and hyperglycaemia, all linked to the development of CPM. Clinical manifestations encompass a spectrum of signs and symptoms, including dysphagia, dysarthria, spastic quadriparesis, pseudobulbar paralysis, ataxia, lethargy, tremors, disorientation, catatonia, and, in severe instances, locked-in syndrome and coma. A recent case involving a 45-year-old woman illustrates these complexities. Upon admission to the Medicine Intensive Care Unit, she presented with symptoms indicative of diminished responsiveness and bilateral weakness in the upper and lower limbs. Of significance, the patient had a pre-existing medical history of hyperthyroidism. Extensive diagnostic investigations were undertaken, revealing compelling evidence of profound hyponatremia through blood analyses. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed, unveiling conspicuous areas of abnormal hyperintensity located in the central pons, intriguingly accompanied by spared peripheral regions. These radiological findings align with the characteristic pattern associated with osmotic demyelination syndrome, illuminating the underlying pathology.
Enhancing the Security of the BB84 Quantum Key Distribution Protocol against Detector-Blinding Attacks via the Use of an Active Quantum Entropy Source in the Receiving Station
Authors: Stipčević Mario
Published: November 2023

True randomness is necessary for the security of any cryptographic protocol, including quantum key distribution (QKD). In QKD transceivers, randomness is supplied by one or more local, private entropy sources of quantum origin which can be either passive (e.g., a beam splitter) or active (e.g., an electronic quantum random number generator). In order to better understand the role of randomness in QKD, I revisit the well-known “detector blinding” attack on the BB84 QKD protocol, which utilizes strong light to achieve undetectable and complete recovery of the secret key. I present two findings. First, I show that the detector-blinding attack was in fact an attack on the receiver’s local entropy source. Second, based on this insight, I propose a modified receiver station and a statistical criterion which together enable the robust detection of any bright-light attack and thus restore security.
In Search of Alignment between Learning Analytics and Learning Design: A Multiple Case Study in a Higher Education Institution
Authors: Lim Lisa-Angelique , Atif Amara , Heggart Keith , Sutton Nicole
Published: November 2023

Learning design (LD) has increasingly been recognized as a significant contextual element for the interpretation and adoption of learning analytics (LA). Yet, few studies have explored how instructors integrate LA feedback into their learning designs, especially within open automated feedback (AF) systems. This research presents a multiple-case study at one higher education institution to unveil instructors’ pilot efforts in using an open AF system to align LA and LD within their unique contexts, with the goal of delivering personalized feedback and tailored support. A notable finding from these cases is that instructors successfully aligned LA with LD for personalized feedback through checkpoint analytics in highly structured courses. Moreover, they relied on checkpoint analytics as an evaluation mechanism for evaluating impact. Importantly, students perceived a stronger sense of instructors’ support, reinforcing previous findings on the effectiveness of personalized feedback. This study contributes essential empirical insights to the intersection of learning analytics and learning design, shedding light on practical ways educators align LA and LD for personalized feedback and support.
Forecasting Significant Stock Market Price Changes Using Machine Learning: Extra Trees Classifier Leads
Authors: Pagliaro Antonio
Published: November 2023

Predicting stock market fluctuations is a difficult task due to its intricate and ever-changing nature. To address this challenge, we propose an approach to minimize forecasting errors by utilizing a classification-based technique, which is a widely used set of algorithms in the field of machine learning. Our study focuses on the potential effectiveness of this approach in improving stock market predictions. Specifically, we introduce a new method to predict stock returns using an Extra Trees Classifier. Technical indicators are used as inputs to train our model while the target is the percentage difference between the closing price and the closing price after 10 trading days for 120 companies from various industries. The 10-day time frame strikes a good balance between accuracy and practicality for traders, avoiding the low accuracy of short time frames and the impracticality of longer ones. The Extra Trees Classifier algorithm is ideal for stock market predictions because of its ability to handle large data sets with a high number of input features and improve model robustness by reducing overfitting. Our results show that our Extra Trees Classifier model outperforms the more traditional Random Forest method, achieving an accuracy of 86.1%. These findings suggest that our model can effectively predict significant price changes in the stock market with high precision. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the potential of classification-based techniques in enhancing stock market predictions.
Fast Health State Estimation of Lead–Acid Batteries Based on Multi-Time Constant Current Charging Curve
Authors: Huang Chengti , Li Na
Published: November 2023

Lead–acid batteries are widely used, and their health status estimation is very important. To address the issues of low fitting accuracy and inaccurate prediction of traditional lead–acid battery health estimation, a battery health estimation model is proposed that relies on charging curve analysis using historical degradation data. This model does not require the assistance of battery mechanism models or empirical degradation models, instead, it is combined with improved deep learning algorithms. A long short-term memory (LSTM) regression model was established, and parameter optimization was performed using the bat algorithm (BA). The experimental results show that the proposed model can achieve an accurate capacity estimation of lead–acid batteries.
Business Model Innovation for Digitalization in the Swedish District Heating Sector
Authors: Williamsson Jon
Published: November 2023

Despite decades of research and development, digitalization remains a key challenge for the Swedish district heating sector. Business model innovation is believed to be necessary to capitalize on digitalization, yet it is especially challenging for municipal companies. This study aims to identify the potential impact of digitalization on the business models of Swedish district heating companies and to analyze the barriers that exist for digital business model innovation. Through case studies of eight municipal district heating companies, this study demonstrates how the entire business model is potentially impacted by digitalization. This study also identifies the barriers to digital business model innovation that are linked to two conflicting views (restrictive versus comprehensive) on digitalization. The restrictive view diminishes the importance of business model innovation, outsourcing innovation to minimize both costs and risks for the company. In contrast, the comprehensive view embraces digital business model innovation through trial-and-error and opens the innovation process to stakeholder influence. These two perspectives are motivated by different beliefs about the need for digitalization to secure future business opportunities, as well as differences in owners’ risk appetite. The implications for industry outlooks and the design of policy support for the digitalization of district heating are discussed.
Design and Experimental Verification of Hubless Rim-Driven Propulsor Consisting of Bearingless Propeller for an Unmanned Underwater Drone
Authors: Kim Myoung-Su , Kim Sung-An
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the design and experimental verification of a hubless rim-driven propulsor (HRDP) for an unmanned underwater drone. The bearings of the HRDP are required to rotate and fix the propeller. However, the bearing increases the weight and size of the propulsor. Therefore, this paper proposes a structure in which the rotor of a surface-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor (SPMSM) and a hubless propeller are combined without the bearings in the rim-driven propulsor. The design procedure of the propulsor is established and the response surface method (RSM) is used to design and optimize the proposed structure. The validity of the HRDP with the proposed structure is verified through simulation results using an electromagnetic field (EF) analysis and computational fluid analysis, and test results using a water tank. Finally, compared to the initial HRDP, the weight of the SPMSM in the optimized HRDP is decreased by 7.3%, and by reducing the required torque by about 19%, power consumption is reduced by about 24.66 W.
Review of Graphene-Based Materials for Tribological Engineering Applications
Authors: Tomanik Eduardo , Christinelli Wania , Souza Roberto M. , Oliveira Vanessa L. , Ferreira Fabio , Zhmud Boris
Published: November 2023

Graphene-based materials have great potential for tribological applications. Graphene’s unique properties such as low shear resistance, high stiffness, and thermal conductivity make it an attractive material for improving the properties of lubricants in a wide range of industrial applications, from vehicles to house refrigerators and industrial machinery such as gearboxes, large compressors, etc. The current review aims to give an engineering perspective, attributing more importance to commercially available graphene and fully formulated lubricants instead of laboratory-scaled produced graphene and base oils without additives. The use of lubricants with graphene-based additives has produced e.g., an increase in mechanical efficiency, consequently reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 20% for domestic refrigerators and up to 6% for ICE vehicles. Potential effects, other than purely friction reduction, contributing to such benefits are also briefly covered and discussed.
Valorization of Spent Brewer’s Yeast Bioactive Components via an Optimized Ultrasonication Process
Authors: Ciobanu Livia Teodora , Constantinescu-Aruxandei Diana , Tritean Naomi , Lupu Carmen , Negrilă Radian Nicolae , Farcasanu Ileana Cornelia , Oancea Florin
Published: November 2023

The increasing need for sustainable waste management and food fortification requires continuous agri-food biotechnological innovation. Spent brewer’s yeast (SBY) is a mass-produced underutilized by-product of the brewery industry and has elevated bioactive potential. The current study presents a streamlined ultrasonic SBY cell lysis method, with the main goal of bioactive compound valorization. The influence of selected ultrasonication parameters on protein release and, implicitly, on the cell disruption efficiency, was assessed. The SBY derivatives resulting from the ultrasonic cell lysis were SBY extracts (SBYEs) and cell walls (SBYCWs), which were evaluated in terms of protein content, antioxidant activity (AOA) and total polyphenol content. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FT-IR spectroscopy were used to characterize SBYCWs in relation to the morphological and chemical transformations that follow ultrasonic yeast cell disruption. The optimal ultrasonication conditions of 6.25% SBY concentration, 40 °C and 33.33% duty cycle (DC) ensured the most efficient lysis. The SBY derivatives with the most elevated antioxidant activity were obtained at temperatures below 60 °C. SBYCWs had the highest polyphenol content and a relatively high content of β-glucan under these parameters. Optical microscopy and SEM confirmed the release of intracellular content and separation of SBYCWs.
The Effect of Leadership Styles on the Growth of Fintech Start-Ups in Zambia
Authors: Choongo Progress , Chileshe Mungu , Lesa Christine Nakamba , Mwiya Bruce , Taylor Thomas Kweku
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between the leadership styles of leaders of financial technology (Fintech) start-ups and firm growth. A quantitative design employing a cross-sectional survey with the use of a Likert questionnaire was conducted on the leaders of top-performing Fintech firms in Zambia, as recognized by Tracxn in its May 2020 report. This study focuses on three leadership styles: transformational leadership, transactional leadership, and laissez-faire leadership. The most significant result is that transformational leadership is strongly associated with the growth of Fintech start-ups in Zambia, while transactional leadership plays a limited role. The association between laissez-faire leadership and firm growth is positive but weak. The research makes two main contributions to the literature in the field of Fintech. First, the findings can help researchers explain leadership styles that predict the growth of Fintech start-ups. Second, founders of Fintech firms will understand the most important leadership styles that can lead to the growth of start-ups. The limitations of this study relate to the sample size, the need to consider other readership styles, and the use of qualitative and longitudinal designs that would provide more insights and validation.
Fire Regimes of Utah: The Past as Prologue
Authors: Birch Joseph D. , Lutz James A.
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Satellite monitoring of fire effects is widespread, but often satellite-derived values are considered without respect to the characteristic severity of fires in different vegetation types or fire areas. Particularly in regions with discontinuous vegetation or narrowly distributed vegetation types, such as the state of Utah, USA, specific characterization of satellite-derived fire sensitivity by vegetation and fire size may improve both pre-fire and post-fire management activities. (2) Methods: We analyzed the 775 medium-sized (40 ha ≤ area < 400 ha) and 697 large (≥400 ha) wildfires that occurred in Utah from 1984 to 2022 and assessed burn severity for all vegetation types using the differenced Normalized Burn Ratio. (3) Results: Between 1984–2021, Utah annually experienced an average of 38 fires ≥ 40 ha that burned an annual average of 58,242 ha with a median dNBR of 165. Fire was heavily influenced by sagebrush and shrubland vegetation types, as these constituted 50.2% (17% SD) of area burned, a proportion which was relatively consistent (18% to 79% yr−1). Medium-sized fires had higher mean severity than large fires in non-forested vegetation types, but forested vegetation types showed the reverse. Between 1985 and 2021, the total area burned in fires ≥ 40 ha in Utah became more concentrated in a smaller number of large fires. (4) Conclusions: In Utah, characteristic fire severity differs both among vegetation types and fire sizes. Fire activity in the recent past may serve as an informative baseline for future fire, although the long period of fire suppression in the 20th century suggests that future fire may be more active. Fire managers planning prescribed fires < 400 ha in forests may find the data from medium-sized fires more indicative of expected behavior than statewide averages or vegetation type averages, both of which are weighted to large fires.
Genetic Diversity and Genetic Structure among Four Selected Strains of Whiteleg Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) Using SSR Markers
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Lu Chengkuan , Lin Kebing , You Weiwei , Yang Zhangwu
Published: November 2023

The whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) is one of the most economically important aquaculture species in China. Genetic diversity is crucial for maintaining the gene pool of farmed shrimp. In this study, the effects of artificial selection on the genetic structure of four whiteleg shrimp strains were evaluated using microsatellite sequences. The results showed that the observed heterozygosity (Ho), expected heterozygosity (He), and the polymorphism information content (PIC) of the four selected strains ranged from 0.446 to 0.574, 0.450 to 0.566, and 0.435 to 0.509, respectively. All the selected strains maintained a moderate level of genetic diversity. Most inbreeding coefficients (Fis) in the four strains were positive but not significantly different from zero, indicating a relatively low degree of inbreeding within each strain. However, He and PIC in line 5 showed a decreasing trend from the 2017 to the 2019 generations, and Fis in line 10 showed a significant increasing trend across generations, indicating that measures must be taken to maintain the level of genetic diversity for lines 5 and 10. UPGMA cluster trees showed that the four breeding lines had apparent genetic differences, which could provide a genetic basis for studying crossbreeding between selective lines and the utilization of heterosis. This study will be useful for population genetic research and the breeding strategies of whiteleg shrimp.
Discriminant Analysis of Aroma Differences between Cow Milk Powder and Special Milk Powder (Donkey, Camel, and Horse Milk Powder) in Xinjiang Based on GC-IMS and Multivariate Statistical Methods
Authors: Gou Yongzhen , Han Yaping , Li Jie , Niu Xiyue , Ma Guocai , Xu Qian
Published: November 2023

In order to explore the aromatic differences between Xinjiang cow milk powder and specialty milk powder (donkey, camel, and horse milk powder), Gas Chromatography-Ion Mobility Spectrometry (GC-IMS) analysis was employed to investigate the volatile compounds in these four types of milk powders. A total of 61 volatile substances were detected, with ketones, aldehydes, and alcohols being the primary flavor components in the milk powders. While the aromatic components of the different milk powders showed similarities in terms of types, there were significant differences in their concentrations, exhibiting distinct characteristics for each type. The Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) showed that there were 15, 14, and 23 volatile compounds that could be used for discrimination of cow milk powder against specialty milk powders, respectively. And it was validated by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis, and finally, 8, 6, and 19 volatile compounds were identified as valid differential marker substances. To facilitate visual discrimination between the different milk powders, we established GC-IMS fingerprint spectra based on the final discriminant markers. These studies provide theoretical guidance for the application of volatile compounds to discriminate adulteration of milk powder marketed in Xinjiang.
New and Rapid Analytical Method Using HPLC-MS Detection for Acrylamide Determination in Black Ripe Olives
Authors: Brenes-Álvarez Mercedes , Ramírez Eva María , Brenes Manuel , García-García Pedro , Medina Eduardo , Romero Concepción
Published: November 2023

The presence of acrylamide, a known human carcinogen, in various heated foods raises significant concerns among consumers. Therefore, the development of a good analytical method is of paramount interest to the scientific community. Keeping this in view, a rapid, simple, reliable, and low-cost analytical method was developed and validated for acrylamide quantification in black ripe olives. The method consisted of the water extraction of the compounds from crushed olives with the addition of (13C3)acrylamide as an internal standard. The quantification was performed using high-pressure liquid chromatography and mass detection with positive electrospray ionization. The limits of detection and quantification were determined to be 4 and 11 µg/kg, respectively. The developed method exhibited excellent results in terms of accuracy (98.4–104.8%) and intra- and inter-day precision limits, both less than 20%. This new method was carried out by analyzing 15 samples of Spanish commercial black ripe olives, revealing a wide range of values, from 79 to 1068 µg/kg of fruit. The new protocol reduces the analysis time to just one hour per sample versus the minimum 24 h required by gas chromatography and mass detection, meaning that it could be a good option for the routine analysis of acrylamide in black ripe olives, and may be extendable to the analysis of this compound in other foods.
High Value-Added Products from Food Waste
Authors: Matumoto-Pintro Paula Toshimi , Saraiva Bianka Rocha
Published: November 2023

Knowledge and use of technologies can transform waste into sustainable solutions [...]
Application of Emerging Non-Thermal Processing Technologies: Impact on Characteristics, Efficacy, and Safety of Foods
Authors: Roig-Sagués Artur X. , Trujillo-Mesa Antonio J.
Published: November 2023

The development of thermal treatments based on the precepts proposed by Nicolas Appert at the beginning of the 19th century is one of the main milestones achieved to prolong the conservation of food and guarantee its supply to the population even if they are at long distances from production sites [...]