bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Economic Toll of Surgical Learning Curve in Elderly Hip Fractures
Authors: Yaacobi Eyal , Shachar Tal , Segal David , Agabaria Altaieb , Halima Golan , Marom Omer , Ohana Nissim
Published: July 2023

Can the financial impact of implant choice during the learning curve of inexperienced surgeons in hip fracture surgery be quantified? Hip fractures in the elderly are a significant medical concern, often requiring surgical interventions performed by orthopedic surgery residents. As healthcare costs rise, exploring cost reduction opportunities within the healthcare system becomes crucial. In this prospective analysis, we examined the financial implications of implant choices encountered by residents during their learning curve in hip fracture surgery. Our study included 278 surgically treated pertrochanteric fractures using the same locking cephalomedullary nail. Data on patients, surgeons (including their experience and seniority), and all implants charged by the hospital were collected. This encompassed documentation of any nail-related equipment that was opened on the operating table and whether it was subsequently used by the end of the procedure. By calculating the number and cost of these implants, we assessed the financial burden associated with suboptimal choices made during the learning curve. Our findings revealed that in 16.18% of surgeries, instances of suboptimal implant utilization occurred, highlighting the complexities of the learning process. Importantly, the rate of these challenges was not influenced by surgeon seniority or patient characteristics. The mean additional cost per surgery was determined to be USD 65.69 ± 157.63 for surgeries with suboptimal implant utilization, compared to USD 56.55 ± 139.13 for surgeries without such challenges. Although there was a trend towards higher implant-related costs in resident-led surgeries, the difference did not reach statistical significance. These findings underscore the feasibility of enabling residents to autonomously perform intramedullary nailing surgeries, even without specialist supervision, while incurring minimal additional expenses during the learning curve. By acknowledging the financial implications associated with the learning curve in the management of hip fractures, we can strive to optimize healthcare costs, thus addressing an important aspect of this issue.
A 21-Day Individual Rehabilitation Exercise Training Program Changes Irisin, Chemerin, and BDNF Levels in Patients after Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery
Authors: Skrzep-Poloczek Bronisława , Idzik Maciej , Michalczyk Katarzyna , Chełmecka Elżbieta , Kukla Michał , Zalejska-Fiolka Jolanta , Poloczek Jakub , Bogielski Bartosz , Jochem Jerzy , Nowak Damian , Stygar Dominika
Published: July 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most frequent worldwide cause of adult population disabilities. The study evaluated the effects of a 21-day individual rehabilitation exercise training program focused on improving patients’ functional capacity. The study analyzed the changes in irisin, chemerin, and BDNF serum levels in 36 OA patients subjected to an individually-adjusted rehabilitation program 90 days after surgical hip or knee replacement. The changes in irisin, chemerin, and BDNF serum levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. A 21-day individual rehabilitation exercise training program significantly increased irisin and BDNF, and decreased chemerin serum levels. The presented study indicates that individually-adjusted exercise training is an important modulator influencing serum levels of anti- and pro-inflammatory factors, leading to positive clinical outcomes in osteoarthritis therapy. Selected factors are considered potential markers of various pathophysiological conditions. The presented study brings new details to the discussion.
Morphological Characteristics of Elite International Soccer Referees: Somatotype and Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis
Authors: Izzicupo Pascal , Petri Cristian , Serafini Sofia , Galanti Giorgio , Mascherini Gabriele
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to assess the physical characteristics of elite international soccer referees, compare them with other referee populations in the literature, and establish reference tolerance ellipses for the bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) point graph. Forty-one elite international soccer referees (age 38.8 ± 3.6 years) participated in the study. The participants underwent body composition assessments, including dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, BIVA, and somatotype. The Somatotype Attitudinal Distance (SAD), the two-sample Hotelling’s T2 test and the Mahalanobis test were used to determine somatotype and bioelectrical vector differences with the literature. The average somatotype of the referees was a balanced mesomorph (2.8, 6.5, 2.8). Elite international referees significantly differed from other samples in the literature (SAD = 2.1, 2.6, 2.9 with respect to Zimbabwean, Brazilian, and South African referees, respectively). The bioelectrical vector was significantly different from the general population (T2 ≤ 76.6; F = 38.8; D = 1.44; p < 0.001) and athletes (T2 ≤ 25.3; F = 12.6; D = 0.8; p < 0.001). Somatotype values and tolerance ellipses from this study may be useful as a reference for developing training programs and improving the selection process of referees in soccer.
Correction: Skarsoulis et al. Prediction of Shipping Noise in Range-Dependent Environments. J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11, 290
Authors: Skarsoulis Emmanuel K. , Piperakis George , Prospathopoulos Aristides , Makropoulos Dimitris
Published: July 2023

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Deep Learning-Based Time Series Forecasting Models Evaluation for the Forecast of Chlorophyll a and Dissolved Oxygen in the Mar Menor
Authors: López-Andreu Francisco Javier , López-Morales Juan Antonio , Hernández-Guillen Zaida , Carrero-Rodrigo Juan Antonio , Sánchez-Alcaraz Marta , Atenza-Juárez Joaquín Francisco , Erena Manuel
Published: July 2023

The Mar Menor is a coastal lagoon of great socio-ecological and environmental value; in recent years, different localized episodes of hypoxia and eutrophication have modified the quality of its waters. The episodes are due to a drop in dissolved oxygen levels below 4 mg/L in some parts of the lagoon and a rise in chlorophyll a to over 1.8 mg/L. Considering that monitoring the Mar Menor and its watershed is essential to understand the environmental dynamics that cause these dramatic episodes, in recent years, efforts have focused on carrying out periodic measurements of different biophysical parameters of the water. Taking advantage of the data collected and the versatility offered by neural networks, this paper evaluates the performance of a dozen advanced neural networks oriented to time series forecasted for the estimation of dissolved oxygen and chlorophyll a parameters. The data used are obtained in the water body by means of sensors carried by a multiparameter oceanographic probe and two agro-climatic stations located near the Mar Menor. For the dissolved oxygen forecast, the models based on the Time2Vec architecture, accompanied by BiLSTM and Transformer, offer an R2 greater than 0.95. In the case of chlorophyll a, three models offer an R2 above 0.92. These metrics are corroborated by forecasting these two parameters for the first time step out of the data set used. Given the satisfactory results obtained, this work is integrated as a new biophysical parameter forecast component in the monitoring platform of the Mar Menor Observatory developed by IMIDA. The results demonstrate that it is feasible to forecast the concentration of chlorophyll a and dissolved oxygen using neural networks specialized in time series forecasts.
CR-NBEER: Cooperative-Relay Neighboring-Based Energy Efficient Routing Protocol for Marine Underwater Sensor Networks
Authors: Hussain Altaf , Hussain Tariq , Ullah Inam , Muminov Bahodir , Khan Muhammad Zubair , Alfarraj Osama , Gafar Amr
Published: July 2023

This paper proposes a Cooperative-Relay Neighboring-Based Energy-Efficient Routing (CR-NBEER) protocol with advanced relay optimization for MUSN. The utilization of the relay nodes, among all other sensor nodes, makes it possible to achieve node-to-node deployment. The proposed method focuses only on cooperation and relay optimization schemes. Both schemes have previously been implemented, and thus the proposed method represents the extended version of the Neighboring-Based Energy-Efficient Routing (NBEER) protocol. Path loss, end-to-end delay, packet delivery ratio, and energy consumption parameters were considered as part of the performance evaluation. The average performance was revealed based on simulations, where the overall average EED of Co-UWSN was measured to be 35.5 ms, CEER was measured to be 26.7 ms, NBEER was measured to be 27.6 ms, and CR-NBEER was measured to be 19.3 ms. Similarly, the overall EC of Co-UWSN was measured to be 10.759 j, CEER was measured to be 8.694 j, NBEER was measured to be 8.309 j, and CR-NBEER was measured to be 7.644 j. The overall average PDR of Co-UWSN was calculated to be 79.227%, CEER was calculated to be 66.73.464%, NBEER was calculated to be 85.82%, and CR-NBEER was calculated to be 94.831%. The overall average PL of Co-UWSN was calculated at 137.5 dB, CEER was calculated at 230 dB, NBEER was calculated at 173.8 dB, and CR-NBEER was calculated at 79.9 dB. Based on the simulations and evaluations, it was observed that the cooperation and relay optimization scheme outperformed previous schemes.
A Precise Semantic Segmentation Model for Seabed Sediment Detection Using YOLO-C
Authors: Chen Xin , Shi Peng , Hu Yi
Published: July 2023

Semantic segmentation methods have been successfully applied in seabed sediment detection. However, fast models like YOLO only produce rough segmentation boundaries (rectangles), while precise models like U-Net require too much time. In order to achieve fast and precise semantic segmentation results, this paper introduces a novel model called YOLO-C. It utilizes the full-resolution classification features of the semantic segmentation algorithm to generate more accurate regions of interest, enabling rapid separation of potential targets and achieving region-based partitioning and precise object boundaries. YOLO-C surpasses existing methods in terms of accuracy and detection scope. Compared to U-Net, it achieves an impressive 15.17% improvement in mean pixel accuracy (mPA). With a processing speed of 98 frames per second, YOLO-C meets the requirements of real-time detection and provides accurate size estimation through segmentation. Furthermore, it achieves a mean average precision (mAP) of 58.94% and a mean intersection over union (mIoU) of 70.36%, outperforming industry-standard algorithms such as YOLOX. Because of the good performance in both rapid processing and high precision, YOLO-C can be effectively utilized in real-time seabed exploration tasks.
Characterizing the Sound-Scattering Layer and Its Environmental Drivers in the North Equatorial Current of the Central and Western Pacific Ocean
Authors: Gao Tianji , Tong Jianfeng , Xue Minghua , Zhu Zhenhong , Qiu Yue , Kindong Richard , Ma Qiuyun , Li Jun
Published: July 2023

Acoustic technology is an essential tool for detecting marine biological resources and has been widely used in sound-scattering layer (SSL) research. The North Equatorial Current (NEC) warm pool region of the Central and Western Pacific Ocean has a vast distribution of micronekton and zooplankton; analyzing the SSL characteristics in this region is vital for monitoring the marine environment and studying the marine ecosystem. In this study, we statistically analyzed the spatiotemporal factors of 10–200 m SSL in the NEC of the Central and Western Pacific Ocean using acoustic survey data collected by the “Songhang” research vessel (RV) in 2022, and the influence of environmental factors on the scattering layer distribution was analyzed using the Generalized Additive Model (GAM). The results showed that the SSL in the warm pool area of the NEC is distributed in shallow waters above 100 m. The primary scatterers are micronekton and zooplankton, and this SSL had diel vertical migration behavior. By comparing Akaike’s Information Criterion of different GAMs, the model consisting of six factors, namely, temperature, current velocity, turbidity, solar altitude angle, longitude, and latitude, was remarkable. Each model’s factor effects primarily influence the contribution of the volume-backscatter strength (Sv). The cumulative deviation explanation rate of the Sv was 67.2%, among which the highest explanation rate of solar altitude angle variance was 35.4%, the most critical environmental factor. The results of this study can provide a reference for long-term studies on ecological changes and their effects on micronekton and zooplankton distribution.
A Symbiotic Fungus Sistotrema Benefits Blueberry Rejuvenation and Abiotic Stress Tolerance
Authors: Ye Yu , Zhan Xufang , Wang Kai , Zhong Jingya , Liao Fanglei , Chen Wenrong , Guo Weidong
Published: July 2023

Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) rhizosphere microorganisms can significantly increase the absorption area and improve the efficiency of rhizospheric nutrient uptake. However, there has been little research on blueberry rhizosphere microorganisms, especially those that can complement root function deficiency. In this study, we analyzed the rhizosphere fungi of ‘O’Neal,’ ‘Sharpblue,’ and ‘Premier’ blueberry cultivars and found that ‘Premier’ blueberries showed strong growth potential and relatively high root regulation ability. The dominant symbiotic fungus Sistotrema was correlated with the strong growth of ‘Premier’ and was directionally screened and isolated based on conserved gene structures and COG function analysis. This fungus was reinoculated onto the roots of ‘Gulfcoast’ and ‘Star’ blueberry cultivars. Sistotrema promoted the growth of blueberries and improved their ability to resist stress and grow under adverse conditions, as indicated by maintained or increased chlorophyll content under such conditions. Further analyses showed that Sistotrema has certain functional characteristics such as the ability to dissolve iron in its insoluble form and then release it, to fix nitrogen, and to inhibit nitrification in soil. Thus, it effectively doubled the soil nitrogen content and increased the soluble iron content in soil by 50%. This investigation indicates sistotrema inoculation as an approach to increase blueberry stress tolerance and complete their root nutrition deficiency.
Unprecedented Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Polyketides from Cultures of Diaporthe africana sp. nov.
Authors: Matio Kemkuignou Blondelle , Lambert Christopher , Stadler Marc , Kouam Fogue Simeon , Marin-Felix Yasmina
Published: July 2023

Four unprecedented polyketides named isoprenylisobenzofuran B (2), isoprenylisobenzofuran C1/C2 (3), diaporisoindole F1/F2 (4), and isochromophilonol A1/A2 (7) were isolated from ethyl acetate extracts of the newly described endophytic fungus Diaporthe africana. Additionally, the previously reported cyclic depsipeptide eucalactam B (1) was also identified, along with the known compounds diaporisoindole A/B (5), tenellone B (6) and beauvericin (8). The taxonomic identification of the fungus was accomplished using a polyphasic approach combining multi-gene phylogenetic analysis and microscopic morphological characters. The structures 1–8 were determined by a detailed analysis of their spectral data, namely high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESIMS), 1D/2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, as well as electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. In addition, chemical methods such as Marfey’s analysis were also employed to determine the stereochemistry in compound 1. All the compounds obtained were evaluated for antimicrobial and in vitro cytotoxic properties. Compounds 3–8 were active against certain fungi and Gram-positive bacteria with MIC values of 8.3 to 66.6 µg/mL. In addition, 3–5 displayed cytotoxic effects (22.0 ≤ IC50 ≤ 59.2 µM) against KB3.1 and L929 cell lines, whereas compounds 6–8 inhibited the growth of seven mammalian cancer cell lines with IC50 ranging from 17.7 to 49.5 µM (6), 0.9 to 12.9 µM (7) and 1.9 to 4.3 µM (8).
Consumers’ Preferences for Digital Corporate Content on Company Websites: A Best–Worst Scaling Analysis
Authors: Koob Clemens
Published: July 2023

Digital content marketing (DCM) complements traditional marketing communication approaches and is a major focus of research. Uses and gratifications research posits that DCM only unfolds positive effects if it provides valuable content to consumers. However, there is limited evidence on what constitutes gratifying digital corporate content on company websites. This study aimed to elicit consumers’ preferences for key characteristics of digital corporate content on company websites and whether preferences differ among consumer subgroups. Best–worst scaling (BWS) was used to reveal preferences. To obtain BWS data, a cross-sectional survey was employed. The study sample comprised 1527 consumers from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Data were analyzed using counting analysis and conditional logit modeling. Subgroup comparisons were performed with t-tests and one-way ANOVA. The results consistently show that consumers prioritize information value as the most important content characteristic, followed by value in use, entertainment value, process value, and social value. Subgroup comparisons revealed generally similar priorities among consumers, with the greatest heterogeneity being found in assessments of the importance of social value. The study also suggests that consumers prioritize digital corporate content characteristics on company websites differently than they do on social media. These findings contribute to the evolving literature on DCM and provide insights that could help set evidence-based priorities in DCM practice.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics and Habitat Quality Analysis in the Temperate Desert Sub-Region of Ordos Plateau, China
Authors: Pei Min , Liu Xiaohuang , Wang Jinjie , Liu Jiufen , Zhao Xiaofeng , Li Hongyu , Wang Ran , Luo Xinping , Xing Liyuan , Wang Chao , Zhao Honghui
Published: July 2023

Habitat quality has great significance in terms of regional ecological conservation and human welfare. In this study, we evaluated the spatial and temporal characteristics of land use and habitat quality in the temperate desert sub-region of the Ordos Plateau using patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) and integrated valuation of ecosystem services and trade-offs (InVEST) models. From 2000 to 2020, the areas of grassland, cropland, and unused land in the study area increased significantly; the areas of water bodies and woodland increased slightly; and the area of wasteland decreased significantly. Moreover, the habitat quality in the temperate desert subzone of the Ordos Plateau showed a trend of initial increase and then decrease between 2000 and 2020. The areas of lower and low habitat quality first decreased and then increased, and the overall area decreased over time. Conversely, the areas of high and higher habitat quality initially increased and then decreased, and the overall area increased over time. The area of medium habitat quality first decreased and then increased, although the overall change was minimal. Based on the PLUS model, the predicted habitat quality of the study area in 2025 under the natural development scenario was compared to that predicted under the ecological conservation scenario. The comparison of results showed higher habitat quality and lower habitat degradation under the ecological conservation development scenario. These results can be used to provide a scientific basis and decision reference for the sustainable use of land resources and encouragement of high-quality socio-economic development in the temperate desert sub-region of the Ordos Plateau.
Evaluation and Optimization of Restorative Environmental Perception of Treetop Trails: The Case of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, Xiamen, China
Authors: Wu Honglin , Zhu Li , Li Jiang , Zhang Ni , Sun Yilin , Tang Yue , Wang Xiaokang , Cheng Chuang
Published: July 2023

A treetop trail is an elevated linear green open space that plays a key role in forming a scientifically rational urban space and meeting the growing leisure needs of the people. Taking the Mountains-to-Sea Trail in Xiamen, China as a case, and through 426 questionnaires, this study explores the dimensions of the perceived restorative environment components of greenway recreationists and impacts on behavioral intentions. The demographic factors lead us to the following three conclusions. First, from an age perspective, restorative environmental perceptions are strongest among those aged 60 and above and weakest among those aged 18–30. Second, in terms of place of permanent residence, local visitors have stronger restorative environmental perceptions than other city users. Third, in relation to the number of accompanying travelers, individuals who embark on solo journeys experience the most robust perception, while that diminishes as the count reaches three or more companions. A structural equation model (SEM) is used to present the quantitative relationship among avoidance motivation, treetop trail environmental quality, restorative environmental perception, place attachment, and loyalty. The results showed that users’ escape motivation has a direct and indirect positive correlation with restorative environmental perceptions, and environmental perceptions have a significant positive correlation with restorative environmental perceptions. Furthermore, their place attachment to the restorative nature of the treetop trails positively affected their loyalty. This study provides essential factors to consider when constructing treetop trails in high-density cities.
Exploring the Comprehensive Evaluation of Sustainable Development in Rural Tourism: A Perspective and Method Based on the AVC Theory
Authors: Liu Lili , Wu Ruonan , Lou Yuanrong , Luo Pingping , Sun Yan , He Bin , Hu Maochuan , Herath Srikantha
Published: July 2023

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a surge in rural tourism, catering to consumers during the pandemic. However, rural tourism faces severe issues of homogeneity and environmental degradation owing to excessive development. Sustainable development of rural tourism is an urgent problem. This study, based on the average variable cost (AVC) theory, aims to explore the sustainable development of rural tourism landscapes with a focus on the Shijing area. A landscape evaluation system was established through factor analysis and weight calculations, with ten principal components contributing to a cumulative contribution rate of 77.196%. The weighted values for attractiveness, vitality, and resilience were 0.539, 0.297, and 0.164, respectively. The findings indicate that Caijiapo Village had the highest comprehensive score of 88.79 (good level of performance), whereas Laoyukou Village had the lowest comprehensive score of 80.25 (average level of performance). Caijiapo and Liyukou exhibited the strongest overall strength, whereas Liyuanpo and Xiazhuang had moderate overall strength, and Laoyukou had the weakest overall strength. The results reveal that all five villages possess rich natural landscapes and favorable geographical conditions, demonstrating the potential and attractiveness of rural tourism development. However, the overall carrying capacity was moderate and vitality was relatively weak. This supports the AVC theory application in rural tourism research and emphasizes the importance of rural landscape quality and economic vitality. The main contributions of this study are as follows: (1) the establishment of a rural tourism landscape evaluation system based on the AVC theory, providing a scientific assessment method for sustainable development; (2) the case evaluation in the Shiying area provides decision-makers with reference for development strategies; (3) emphasis on the importance of ecological conservation in rural tourism and providing recommendations to address issues of homogenization and environmental degradation.
Spatiotemporal Heterogeneity of Total Factor Productivity of Grain in the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Wen Fenghua , Lyu Donghan , Huang Daohan
Published: July 2023

The total factor productivity of grain (TFPG) is critically important to secure food production, while its spatiotemporal heterogeneity in the urbanized area is largely ignored. Selecting 41 cities in the Yangtze River Delta, this study uses the data envelopment analysis (DEA) Malmquist index method to measure the TFPG in each city from 2012 to 2020 based on panel data, and explores the driving factors of the spatiotemporal evolution of the TFPG with the geographically and temporally weighted regression model. The results indicate the following: (1) Both the TFPG and technological progress varies in the same direction, indicating that technological progress dominates the TFPG in the studied region. The changes in technical efficiency, pure technical efficiency, and scale efficiency are relatively stable. (2) The spatial distribution of the TFPG shows a decentralized trend, with a pattern of high in the north and east areas and low in the south and west areas. (3) The driving factors, such as the development level of the grain economy, the amount of fertilizer used per unit area, and gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, have a restraining effect on the improvement of the TFPG, in which the amount of fertilizer used per unit area is the critical factor. (4) The scale of per capita labor operation, the proportion of the grain-growing population, and output of grain per hectare exert a promoting effect on the TFPG, in which both the proportion of the grain-growing population and output of grain per hectare are the critical factors. Finally, improving the efficiency of fertilizer use, expanding the production scale of the grain planting industry, and increasing the output of grain per hectare are proposed to improve the TFGP in the Yangtze River Delta.
‘Good’ Is ‘Possible’: A Case Study of the Modal Uses of ‘Good’ in Shaoxing
Authors: Lü Shanshan , Huang Xiao
Published: July 2023

This paper sets out to investigate the modal uses of the lexeme hɒ3 ‘good’ in the Jidong Shaoxing variety of Wu and to reconstruct its grammaticalization pathway. Modal meanings of hɒ3 include circumstantial possibility, deontic possibility and necessity, and epistemic possibility. These meanings can be summarized as ‘can’, ‘may’, and ‘should’, respectively. The modal meanings of hɒ3 are derived from its meaning of ‘fit to’ rather than ‘good’. We propose here that hɒ3 first extended to express circumstantial possibility, and then further extended to denote deontic modality and participant-internal possibility in two separate directions: (i) circumstantial possibility > deontic modality, and (ii) circumstantial possibility > participant-internal possibility. The epistemic use of hɒ3 is proposed as the final stage of the lexeme’s modal extension.
Leaf Morphological and Epidermal Traits Variability along Environmental Gradients in Ten Natural Populations of Pistacia lentiscus
Authors: Doghbage Abdelghafour , Belhadj Safia , Belhouadjeb Fathi , Boukerker Hassen , Mevy Jean , Gauquelin Thierry , Tonetto Alain , Merdas Saifi , Touati Bakria , Saimi Fethi , Rahem Rafik , Derridj Arezki , Hassen Feriel , Soufan Walid
Published: July 2023

The species belonging to the genus Pistacia possess ecological, economic, and medicinal value. They show a very high ecological plasticity. This research is a contribution to the study of the intraspecific diversity and variability of 10 populations of Pistacia lentiscus in different bioclimates. Nine locations in Algeria and one site in France have been selected in order to understand the strategies developed by this species under extreme conditions, including altitude and aridity, and to identify the adaptive processes that can be observed based on the morphological and ultrastructural features of the leaf. As a result of this research, we have collected a large quantity of important information on morphological and microphytodermal leaf variability for the ten studied populations. The statistical analyses showed a very important difference in the studied characteristics between these populations. It has been demonstrated that environmental factors also have a significant impact on the heterogeneity of most measured leaf features. Moreover, the observations with the scanning electron microscope (SEM) enabled us to highlight new characteristics of the studied species, such as the glandular trichomes on the leaflets and embedded stomata in the epidermis. These criteria could supplement the existing morphological characteristics used in the systematic classification of the Pistacia genus. Overall, the studied species have shown xeromorphy features, which give them the opportunity to be used in desertification mitigation programs, due to their ability to withstand conditions of extreme aridity.
Possibilities of Checking Water Content in Porous Geopolymer Materials Using Impedance Spectroscopy Methods
Authors: Mierzwiński Dariusz , Walter Janusz , Wanat Dominika
Published: July 2023

The porous geopolymer has been tested for its content of water using impedance methods. The pores of the material were filled with distilled water using a desiccator and a vacuum pump. An analysis of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was carried out in the next step to check the content of water, porosity and approximate value of specific heat of the geopolymer. Additionally, mercury porosimeter has been used for checking the porosity. The geopolymer material characterized in this way was subjected to impedance tests aimed at developing a quick method for assessing the water content in the material. Impedance measurements have been realized on an electrochemical workstation applying a 50 mV non-destructive amplitude of the potential and a frequency range of 1 Hz to 100 kHz. Change in the module of impedance and the phase shift angle were measured while the material was dried out. Significant differences were observed. The obtained graphs were simulated using a schematic model consisting of constant phase elements (CPEs) and a resistor (R). These values showed mechanisms of charge conduction. A simple method for assessing the water content of a porous geopolymer has been proposed in this paper. The real and imaginary impedance values were shown in Nyquist graphs. These graphs have characteristic maxima that move according to a linear equation with decreasing water content. Changes in Nyqiust charts are clearly visible even with small changes in the water content of the material and can be very useful for assessing it.
Perspectives on Corrosion Inhibition Features of Novel Synthesized Gemini-Fluorinated Cationic Surfactants Bearing Varied Spacers for Acid Pickling of X60-Steel: Practical, and In Silico Calculations
Authors: Shalabi Kamal , Abd El-Lateef Hany M. Abd , Hammouda Mohamed M. , Osman Amany M. A. , Tantawy Ahmed H. , Abo-Riya Mohamed A.
Published: July 2023

Through our present study, three novel Gemini-fluorinated cationic surfactants bearing different spacers (FSG6-2, FSG6-4, and FSG6-6) were synthesized, and their structures were explained via different spectroscopic instruments such as 1H, 13C, and 19F NMR spectra. The surface activity of the as-prepared surfactants was examined. The inhibiting influence of FSG6 molecules on the X60 steel corrosion in the pickling solution (HCl) was examined by diverse methods comprising electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) experimentations, and computational calculations. The inhibition effectiveness of FSG6 surfactants followed the order of 93.37% (FSG6-2) < 96.74% (FSG6-4) < 98.37% (FSG6-6) at 2.0 × 10−4 M. The FSG6 surfactants function as mixed-type inhibitors, according to PDP investigations. The H2O molecules that adsorbed on the steel interface were substituted with surfactant molecules, and the surfactant’s inhibitory activity is likely caused by the improvement in an adsorptive layer on the steel substrate, as specified by the EIS results. The Langmuir isotherm describes the absorption of FSG6 molecules on the metal surface. The XPS investigations validate the steel interface’s extremely protective nature. The mechanism of interaction between FSG6 molecules with an X60-steel employing the DFT calculations and MC simulations methods was also examined and discussed.
Microstructure-Based Multiscale Modeling of Deformation in MarBN Steel under Uniaxial Tension: Experiments and Finite Element Simulations
Authors: Zhang Yida , Zhang Hong , Zou Tongfei , Liu Meng , Wang Quanyi , Pei Yubing , Liu Yongjie , Wang Qingyuan
Published: July 2023

In the current work, a multiscale model was developed coupling a macro-model with the macromechanical physically based yield strength and a crystal plasticity model with micromechanical properties and realistic grain orientation based on the representative volume element. The simulation results show that the effect of microstructure on the macromechanical properties can be considered in the macro constitutive model due to a good consistency between experimental and computed results; whereas solid strengthening, grain boundaries, and dislocation density played a more crucial role than others. Besides coupling simulation and microstructure by EBSD, the microstructure evolution can be well explained by the micromechanical model. Strain is related to the grain orientation, leading to inhomogeneous deformation, forming the various Schmid factor and slip systems. A plastic strain occurs close to the grain boundaries and declines into the grain, resulting in higher kernel average misorientation (KAM) and geometry necessary dislocations (GNDs) in the grain boundaries. The higher the loading, the higher the local strain. Shear bands with around 45 degrees can be formed, resulting in crack initiation and tensile shear failure. This work has developed the guidance of structural integrity assessment and prediction of mechanical properties for the engineering material and components.
Investigating the Thermo-Optic Properties of BCZT-Based Temperature Sensors
Authors: Kamnoy Manlika , Pengpat Kamonpan , Tunkasiri Tawee , Khamman Orawan , Intatha Uraiwan , Eitssayeam Sukum
Published: July 2023

Photoluminescent (PL) layers and electroluminescent (EL) systems have gained significant attention for their applications in constructing flat panels, screen monitors, and lighting systems. In this study, we present a groundbreaking approach to fabricating temperature sensors using barium-calcium zirconium titanate (BCZT) with thermo-optic properties, leading to the development of opto-thermal sensors for electric vehicle battery packs. We prepared zinc sulfide (ZnS) fluorescent films on BCZT ceramics, specifically two optimal compositions, BCZT0.85 (Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3) and BCZT0.9 (Ba0.9Ca0.1Zr0.1Ti0.9O3), via the solid-state reaction method for the dielectric layer. The BCZT powders were calcined at varying temperatures (1200 and 1250 °C) and dwell times (2 and 4 h). The resulting phase formation and microstructure characteristics were analyzed using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Our investigation aimed to establish a correlation between the dielectric behavior and optical properties to determine the optimal composition and conditions for utilizing BCZT as thermal detectors in electric vehicle battery packs. All BCZT powders exhibited a tetragonal phase, as confirmed by JCPDS No. 01-079-2265. We observed an increase in the dielectric constant with higher calcining temperatures or longer dwell times. Remarkably, BCZT0.85 ceramic sintered at 1250 °C for 4 h displayed the highest dielectric constant of 15,342, establishing this condition as optimal for preparing the dielectric film with a maximum dielectric constant of 42. Furthermore, we investigated the temperature-dependent electroluminescence intensity of the samples, revealing a significant enhancement with increasing temperature, reaching its peak at 80 °C. Additionally, we observed a positive correlation between electroluminescence intensity and dielectric constant, indicating the potential for improved opto-thermal sensors. The findings from this study offer promising opportunities for the development of advanced opto-thermal sensors with potential applications in electric vehicle battery packs. Our work contributes to the expanding field of photoluminescent and electroluminescent systems by providing novel insights into the design and optimization of efficient and reliable sensors for thermal monitoring in electric vehicle technologies.
Design of Z Profile Roller Tooling and Research on Roller Clearance
Authors: Jing Yigang , Sun Qun , Zhao Ying
Published: July 2023

In metal processing, bending forming is widely applied in various fields. To prevent excessive surface scratching and heavy indentation on the profiles, which can negatively affect the surface quality, it is often necessary to determine the clearances between the rollers and the upper and lower surfaces of the profiles using experimental methods. However, this experimental approach not only results in material waste but also fails to determine the optimal clearance value. Therefore, orthogonal experiments were conducted to design different clearances between the rollers and the upper and lower surfaces of the profiles to mitigate the issues of excessive surface scratching and poor surface quality during the bending forming process of large-section Z-profiles. Finite element simulation was employed to simulate the different experiments, and a range analysis was performed on the experimental results to obtain the optimal clearance value. The obtained results fall within the range of results obtained from traditional experimental methods, indicating its consistency with actual practice, higher accuracy, and scientific rigor compared with experimental methods. Furthermore, the roller tooling design was revised based on the optimal clearance value for the profile processing. The experimental results demonstrate that the surface quality of the profiles processed with optimal clearance is superior to those processed without it. Additionally, this study presents a comprehensive methodology for roller tooling design and investigates the influence of different loading modes on the local wrinkling deformation of the profiles.
Innovative Device for Automated Monitoring of Table Olive Fermentation Parameters: First Experimental Results
Authors: Manganiello Rossella , Pagano Mauro , Ciccoritti Roberto , Cecchini Massimo , Cedrola Carla , Mattei Paolo , Tomasone Roberto
Published: July 2023

The table olive sector is highly important to the Italian agri-food industry. To produce quality table olives without defects in appearance, flavors, or aroma and to meet consumer expectations, special precautions must be taken to limit side effects associated with transformation and storage processes. During these processes, essential to debitter and stabilize the final product, drupes may undergo undesirable fermentations due to changes in the olive-to-brine ratio, temperature changes, and alteration of the brine’s chemico–physical parameters, thus decreasing their commercial and nutritional value. An innovative user-friendly system, equipped with low-cost digital and sensorized devices, has been engineered and realized for step-by-step batch monitoring of table olive storage brines. The main fermentation parameters (i.e., temperature, pH, salinity, free acidity, volatile acidity, and residual sodium hydroxide) of virgin, compliant, and altered brines were analyzed with both the automated prototype and Official reference methods, with the aim of testing the functionality of the prototype device and verifying the reliability and repeatability of the measurements. Good linearity was observed for all parameters examined, with a relatively low mean deviation between the two approaches. It is therefore possible to constantly monitor brine conformity automatically during the processing stages, benefiting product quality and environmental, energy, and economic sustainability.
Impact of Cycloid’s and Roller’s Dimensional Errors on the Performance of a Cycloidal Drive for Power Transmission
Authors: Fiorineschi Lorenzo , Frillici Francesco Saverio , Pugi Luca , Rotini Federico
Published: July 2023

Cycloidal roller gearboxes offer good performance in terms of loading capacity and overloading limits, but a precise manufacturing process is required to avoid overloads on relatively small teeth. In addition, these gearboxes are very sensitive to lubrication, which plays an important role on the contact surfaces of rollers and teeth. However, it is acknowledged that an equivalent Cycloidal–Wolfrom configuration can be a possible solution to improve these aspects. In this work, the authors perform a comparison between two equivalent configurations, investigating how tolerances can affect the performances. The investigation approach is based on the use of simulations performed through virtual models of the main wheels of the gearboxes. The outcomes suggest a high suitability of the proposed Wolfrom configuration for applications with high transmitted torques, relatively poor materials, and modest construction tolerances.
Robust Reinforcement Learning-Based Multiple Inputs and Multiple Outputs Controller for Wind Turbines
Authors: Tomin Nikita
Published: July 2023

The control of variable-speed wind turbines that generate electricity from the kinetic energy of the wind involves subsystems that need to be controlled simultaneously, namely, the blade pitch angle controllers and the generator torque controllers. The presented study solves the control problem with multiple inputs and multiple outputs (MIMO), using the method of reinforcement learning–based Trust Region Policy Optimization, through which the control parameters of both subsystems are simultaneously optimized. In this case, the robust control problem is transformed into a constrained optimal control problem with an appropriate choice of value functions for the nominal system. The study aims to synthesize a robust controller, with the aim of maximizing the generated energy (power) and minimizing unwanted forces (thrust). The innovative control architecture uses an extended input space, which allows fine-tuning of parameters for each operating state. Test calculations carried out in simulation experiments using models of the 5 MW NREL wind turbine and the 4 MW Enercon E-126 EP3 wind turbine are presented to illustrate the performance and practicality of the proposed approach.
A Review of Mathematical Models of Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Government Regulation of the Economy
Authors: Mokhov Veniamin , Aliukov Sergei , Alabugin Anatoliy , Osintsev Konstantin
Published: July 2023

This review analyzes articles on the mathematical modeling of economic facts and processes. Mathematical modeling of the economy has rapidly developed in the past and current centuries. This is explained by the fact that, firstly, economics does not tolerate full-scale experiments, secondly, mathematical modeling significantly improves the accuracy of research results, and, finally, thirdly, economics becomes a science only when it is based on mathematics. The article presents an overview of the main methods of economic modeling used in scientific research over the past twenty years. The review does not claim to cover all areas, methods, and models used in scientific research in the field of economics. This cannot be done in one article. Mathematical modeling of only three sections of economic theory is considered: macroeconomics, microeconomics, and state regulation of the economy. The review of research methods and models in the microeconomics section, which are available in the scientific research toolkit but have already been described in the macroeconomics section, has been omitted. Only effective, practice-tested models are used in the Review. We hope that this review will be useful to scientists involved in the indirect study of economic phenomena and processes.
A Hybrid Medium and Long-Term Relative Humidity Point and Interval Prediction Method for Intensive Poultry Farming
Authors: Yin Hang , Wu Zeyu , Wu Junchao , Jiang Junjie , Chen Yalin , Chen Mingxuan , Luo Shixuan , Gao Lijun
Published: July 2023

The accurate and reliable relative humidity (RH) prediction holds immense significance in effectively controlling the breeding cycle health and optimizing egg production performance in intensive poultry farming environments. However, current RH prediction research mainly focuses on short-term point predictions, which cannot meet the demand for accurate RH control in poultry houses in intensive farming. To compensate for this deficiency, a hybrid medium and long-term RH prediction model capable of precise point and interval prediction is proposed in this study. Firstly, the complexity of RH is reduced using a data denoising method that combines complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) and permutation entropy. Secondly, important environmental factors are selected from feature correlation and change trends. Thirdly, based on the results of data denoising and feature selection, a BiGRU-Attention model incorporating an attention mechanism is established for medium and long-term RH point prediction. Finally, the Gaussian kernel density estimation (KDE-Gaussian) method is used to fit the point prediction error, and the RH prediction interval at different confidence levels is estimated. This method was applied to analyze the actual collection of waterfowl (Magang geese) environmental datasets from October 2022 to March 2023. The results indicate that the CEEMDAN-FS-BiGRU-Attention model proposed in this study has excellent medium and long-term point prediction performance. In comparison to LSTM, the mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) are reduced by 57.7%, 48.2%, and 56.6%, respectively. Furthermore, at different confidence levels, the prediction interval formed by the KDE-Gaussian method is reliable and stable, which meets the need for accurate RH control in intensive farming environments.
Formulation for Multiple Cracks Problem in Thermoelectric-Bonded Materials Using Hypersingular Integral Equations
Authors: Mohd Nordin Muhammad Haziq Iqmal , Hamzah Khairum Bin , Khashi’ie Najiyah Safwa , Waini Iskandar , Nik Long Nik Mohd Asri , Fitri Saadatul
Published: July 2023

New formulations are produced for problems associated with multiple cracks in the upper part of thermoelectric-bonded materials subjected to remote stress using hypersingular integral equations (HSIEs). The modified complex stress potential function method with the continuity conditions of the resultant electric force and displacement electric function, and temperature and resultant heat flux being continuous across the bonded materials’ interface, is used to develop these HSIEs. The unknown crack opening displacement function, electric current density, and energy flux load are mapped into the square root singularity function using the curved length coordinate method. The new HSIEs for multiple cracks in the upper part of thermoelectric-bonded materials can be obtained by applying the superposition principle. The appropriate quadrature formulas are then used to find stress intensity factors, with the traction along the crack as the right-hand term with the help of the curved length coordinate method. The general solutions of HSIEs for crack problems in thermoelectric-bonded materials are demonstrated with two substitutions and it is strictly confirmed with rigorous proof that: (i) the general solutions of HSIEs reduce to infinite materials if G1=G2, K1=K2, and E1=E2, and the values of the electric parts are α1=α2=0 and λ1=λ2=0; (ii) the general solutions of HSIEs reduce to half-plane materials if G2=0, and the values of α1=α2=0, λ1=λ2=0 and κ2=0. These substitutions also partially validate the general solution derived from this study.