bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing an Integrated Framework for Securing Internet of Things Traffic in Smart Cities Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Alhanaya Moody , Al-Shqeerat Khalil
Published: August 2023

Internet of Things technology opens the horizon to a broader scope of intelligent applications in smart cities. However, the massive amount of traffic exchanged among devices may cause security risks, especially when devices are compromised or vulnerable to cyberattack. An intrusion detection system is the most powerful tool to detect unauthorized attempts to access smart systems. It identifies malicious and benign traffic by analyzing network traffic. In most cases, only a fraction of network traffic can be considered malicious. As a result, it is difficult for an intrusion detection system to detect attacks at high detection rates while maintaining a low false alarm rate. This work proposes an integrated framework to detect suspicious traffic to address secure data communication in smart cities. This paper presents an approach to developing an intrusion detection system to detect various attack types. It can be carried out by implementing a Principal Component Analysis method that eliminates redundancy and reduces system dimensionality. Furthermore, the proposed model shows how to improve intrusion detection system performance by implementing an ensemble model.
A Dynamic Numerical Simulation on the Grouting Timing in Retained Rib of Pillarless Mining
Authors: Yu Xianyang , Xie Jinhao , Wu Yanju , Wu Qiuhong , Zhang Zizheng , Wu Hai
Published: August 2023

A dynamic numerical method is established to simulate the stability of the surrounding rocks of the retained roadway in FLAC3D, along with a double-yield constitutive model to simulate the re-compaction process of gangue and a strain-softening constitutive model to simulate the strain-softening characteristic of the coal and the grouted fragmented coal after yielding. The simulation reveals that the grouting slurry diffusion range, the mining affecting the stage behind the working face and the retained coal rib deformation are closely interrelated. Under severe mining-induced stress, the integrity of the surrounding rock is more likely to be destroyed, accompanied by a large number of cracks developing and gradually expanding in the surrounding rocks. The roadway deformation increases in a rapid manner. Meanwhile, the grouting diffusing range increases gradually. The simulation conducted in this study indicates that the optimum support effect can be achieved by grouting in the section before and after the working face affected by the high mining-induced stress. A timely grouting can be used to construct an enhanced surrounding rock-bolting-grouting support system and maintain the stability of the retained roadway.
Finite Elements Analysis of Biomechanical Behavior of the Bracket in a Gradual Horizontal Periodontal Breakdown—A Comparative Analysis of Multiple Failure Criteria
Authors: Moga Radu Andrei , Olteanu Cristian Doru , Buru Stefan Marius , Botez Mircea Daniel , Delean Ada Gabriela
Published: August 2023

This study assessed the stress distribution (in eighty-one 3D models of the second lower premolar) in a stainless-steel bracket and enamel crown under 0.5 N of intrusion, extrusion, rotation, translation, and tipping during a horizontal periodontal breakdown of 0–8 mm. The FEA simulations (totaling 405) employed five failure criteria and assessed the adequacy and accuracy of Von Mises (VM), Tresca (T), Maximum Principal (S1), Minimum Principal (S3), and Hydrostatic Pressure. T and VM criteria showed no change in stress display areas during the periodontal breakdown, seeming to be more correct and adequate than the other three (with unusual stress displays). Both VM and T (found to be more adequate) generated maximum stress areas on the attachment side and the entire base of the bracket, confirming the non-homogenous stress distribution areas and the risks of bond failure. Rotation, translation, and tipping were the most stressful movements and showed slightly lower quantitative values for 8 mm bone loss when compared with the intact periodontium, while intrusion and extrusion showed the opposite behavior (slight increase). Periodontal breakdown did not influence the stress display in the bracket and its surrounding enamel area during the five orthodontic movements.
Investigation and Spatial Distribution of Hard Ticks by Geographical Information System (GIS) in the Region of Istria, Croatia
Authors: Cvek Maja , Broznić Dalibor , Puškadija Darja , Blagonić Boris , Kirin Ivana , Pustijanac Emina , Landeka Nediljko , Stojanović Aleksandar , Ožanič Bučar Mateja , Tomić Linšak Dijana
Published: August 2023

Ticks are significant vectors of pathogens in human and veterinary medicine and have been identified as (re)emerging health threats. The primary objective of this study was to collect new data on the fauna of hard ticks within the region of Istria with a focus on spatial distribution using a geographical information system (GIS). All tick specimens were collected over three years (2020–2023), and this research included all 41 self-government units of Istria and Brijuni Islands National Park. Ticks were collected using the flagging/dragging method and manually from hosts (humans, domestic, or wild animals). In addition, morphological identification using tick keys was performed. The obtained data were used to create maps and feed models and to predict risk assessments. Collected data reveal the predominant presence of Ixodes ricinus, accounting for (n = 446) or 48.1% of the tick population. Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Ixodida: Ixodidae) follows with (n = 253) or 27.23%, and Hyalomma marginatum represents (n = 136) or 14.64% of the tick species collected using the host method in the region. Tick–host relationships are complex and influenced by a range of ecological and environmental factors. The results of this research will contribute to a better understanding, identification, and prediction of the changes in their geographic ranges and help in the prevention and control of zoonosis transmitted to humans by ticks. The obtained results mapped using GIS support the first study on the spatial distribution of ticks in the region of Istria in Croatia.
Acid-Catalyzed Organosolv Treatment of Potato Peels to Boost Release of Polyphenolic Compounds Using 1- and 2-Propanol
Authors: Casasni Selma , Guenaoui Akram , Grigorakis Spyros , Makris Dimitris P.
Published: August 2023

The current study aimed at developing an effective organosolv treatment, with the objective to obtain potato peel extracts highly enriched in polyphenols. To this end, two low-cost solvents were employed, 1- and 2-propanol, which are considered green, but they have been rather poorly studied compared to other conventional solvents, such as ethanol. Treatment development also embraced the use of sulfuric acid, a well-examined catalyst in organosolv processes. Treatment evaluation on the basis of response surface optimization and severity demonstrated that 1-propanol was a more effective solvent, providing a maximum yield in total polyphenols of 19.28 mg chlorogenic acid equivalents per g of dry potato peel weight, attained with 40% 1-propanol/1.5% (w/v) sulfuric acid at a treatment time of 60 min and a temperature of 90 °C. This treatment was of lower severity compared to the one with 2-propanol, and it also provided almost 24% higher total polyphenol yield. The extracts produced contained chlorogenic acid as the major constituent, accompanied by caffeic acid and minor amounts of p-coumaric acid. This is the first report on such an organosolv treatment of potato peels to recover polyphenolic compounds with high efficiency.
The Role of Social Network Analysis in Social Media Research
Authors: Nie Zhou , Waheed Moniza , Kasimon Diyana , Wan Abas Wan Anita Binti
Published: August 2023

Previous studies regarding social interactions commonly adopt research methods that investigate causal relationships between variables. The existing approaches often utilize variables derived from general contexts, aiming to apply them universally across diverse situations. However, social interactions, including the usage of social media, are intricately woven within the immediate social context. The interpretability of these generalized variables has been attenuated by the dynamic and transient nature of social contexts; these variables have diverse impacts on social interactions. Consequently, researchers have been diligently seeking new variables relevant to specific social contexts in order to complement the existing generalized ones. However, the ever-changing nature of social contexts poses a challenge, impeding researchers from exhaustively defining all variables that influence social interactions. To address this complexity, this study proposes social network analysis as a suitable research method capable of capturing the ever-evolving dynamics of social interactions, including social media usage. Furthermore, this study puts forth hypotheses that specifically explore the role of individual social networks in social media research, with the aim of stimulating future investigations that center on the interactive and dynamic nature of social media usage.
Non-Invasive Intraoral Stand-Alone Tongue Control System Based on RSIC-V Edge Computing
Authors: Shi Lijuan , Peng Xiong , Zhao Jian , Kuang Zhejun , An Tianbo , Wang Liu
Published: August 2023

The intelligent tongue control system is of great significance for assisting the independent life of patients with a limb disability. In order to more accurately control the assisted living equipment of incompetent patients and solve the power-loss problem of the intelligent tongue control system, this research designs a non-invasive pressure sensor array for tongue touch signal detection in the oral cavity and proposes a tongue control system based on RSIC-V edge computing. The system converts the tongue touch pressure data into specific control instructions on the edge of the RSIC-V chip and transmits them to the receiver, thus reducing the transmission of data. This study takes control of the wheelchair motor as the test object. In the experiment, the speed response time test, the center click task, and the power consumption experiment are carried out, whose results show that the adaptive fuzzy PID control algorithm has good robustness in the system; when the DC motor with a given speed of 750 r/min reaches the steady state, its rise time is 0.108 s and the adjustment time is 0.59 s. The dynamic power consumption of the non-intrusive intraoral stand-alone tongue control system proposed in this paper is found to be 3.745 MW, which is 11.5% lower than the total power consumption of the sTD system.
Research on Deformation Monitoring of Invert Uplifts in Soft Rock Tunnels Based on 3D Laser Scanning
Authors: Zhang Enchao , Niu Pengtao , Liu Jianfei
Published: August 2023

The soft surrounding rock in tunnels has the characteristics of low strength, easy softening after soaking, and poor self-stability, which makes the inverted arch structure in soft rock tunnels prone to uplift deformations. Therefore, a deformation monitoring method for inverted arch uplifts of soft rock tunnels based on 3D laser scanning technology is studied to improve deformation monitoring. A Leica Scan Station2 3D laser scanner is used to collect 3D point cloud data of soft rock tunnel inverts. Using the automatic matching method of public landmarks and the improved Rodrigues parameter method, the collected 3D point cloud data are spliced and through the Mallat algorithm, the 3D point cloud data are reconstructed and processed after splicing. The whole least square method is used to fit the reconstructed 3D point cloud data. Through the principal component analysis method, the normal vector of the fitting plane is estimated and the best datum plane of the soft rock tunnel invert is found. By calculating and extracting the geometric parameters of the slice point cloud, the monitoring of inverted arch uplift deformations in soft rock tunnels is completed. The experiment shows that this method can effectively collect 3D point cloud data of soft rock tunnel inverts, and complete point cloud stitching and reconstruction. This method can effectively monitor the uplift deformation of inverted arches at different grouting depths.
Synthesis and Utilisation of Hybrid Metal-Carbonic Anhydrase Enzyme Carrier System for Soil Biocementation
Authors: Mwandira Wilson , Purchase Diane , Mavroulidou Maria , Gunn Michael J.
Published: August 2023

Biocementation is an emerging nature-inspired method of producing eco-friendly cement for soil stabilization. This paper used the bovine-derived carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzyme to catalyse the bioprecipitation of CaCO3 in a fine-grained soil and thus to biocement the soil. To increase the efficiency of the CA, an innovative copper–carbonic anhydrase (CA) hybrid was fabricated. This study is a proof-of-concept of the potential application of these enzyme carriers for soil biocementation. The hybrid carriers are aimed to enhance the stability, recovery and reusability of the enzyme used in the biocementation process. The results showed that the fabricated copper phosphate-based inorganic hybrid was stable throughout the duration of the tests (2 months) and under a wide range of pH and temperatures. Its enzymatic activity was enhanced compared to the free CA enzyme and it was proved suitable for soil biocementation. This was further confirmed by the SEM analysis. Additionally, the treated soil with the formulated hybrid carrier showed improved unconfined compressive strength, especially when the carriers were implemented into the soil by mixing. The material analysis by Raman spectroscopy confirmed calcium carbonate as the primary precipitate, consistent with soil biocementation. Overall, this innovative method of delivery of enzymes with enhanced stability and activity shows promise that, upon further development, it can be successfully used to increase the efficiency and sustainability of the biocementation process.
M13 Bacteriophage-Assisted Synergistic Optical Enhancement of Perovskite Quantum Dots
Authors: Silalahi Vanna Chrismas , Lee Il Hyun , Kim Minjun , Jang Yudong , Lee Donghan , Lee Jong-Min , Devaraj Vasanthan , Oh Jin-Woo
Published: August 2023

Bacteriophages demonstrate a remarkable ability to adhere to host surfaces, thus improving their chances of reproduction. These viral entities demonstrate extreme interface properties through their highly specific and periodic peptide receptors, surpassing any manmade surface in terms of variability and adhesiveness. This intriguing quality has led to investigations into biohybrid nanostructures, wherein bacteriophages are combined with inorganic substances. Among them, cesium lead halide (CsPbI3) perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) are promising emissive materials, with their optical characteristics being vital for the advancement of light-emitting and optoelectronic apparatuses. In this study, we explored the integration of M13 bacteriophages (phages) with CsPbI3 PQDs. Our observations indicated that the photoluminescence of CsPbI3 + M13 phage was amplified 7.7-fold compared to pure CsPbI3, the lifetime of the quantum dots extended from 40.47 ns to 53.32 ns and enhanced the stability. Simulations and experimental results both demonstrate the significant role of M13 bacteriophages in achieving enhanced optical properties for PQDs. These findings confirm the significant contribution of M13 phages to enhancing the optical attributes in PQDs, laying the groundwork for innovative optoelectronic applications.
LoRaWAPS: A Wide-Area Positioning System Based on LoRa Mesh
Authors: Li Bin , Xu Yihao , Liu Ying , Shi Zhiguo
Published: August 2023

The positioning task of the Internet of Things (IoT) for outdoor environments requires that the node devices meet the requirements of low power consumption, long endurance, and low cost and that the positioning system can achieve high-precision positioning and wide-area coverage. Considering that traditional IoT positioning technology cannot balance the cost, energy consumption, and positioning performance well, a Wide-Area Positioning System Based on Long Range Mesh (LoRaWAPS), which is a low-cost and low-power outdoor positioning system with multi-anchor wireless mesh networking and multi-dimensional data fusion, is designed in this paper. To meet the need for a positioning system, a low-power consumption and high-reliability LoRa Mesh protocol is proposed. Aiming at the problem that the accuracy of LoRa ranging is easily affected by the non-line-of-sight (NLOS) path propagation of signals, a distance estimation algorithm based on the fusion of time of flight (TOF) and received signal strength indicator (RSSI) multi-sampling data is proposed. Furthermore, a position estimation algorithm is designed to minimize the posteriori RSSI error for multi-anchor cooperative estimation scenarios. Furthermore, the prototype of LoRaWAPS is built and tested in the campus environment. The experimental results show that the proposed system can provide reliable location service with low power and low cost.
Aircraft Trajectory Prediction Enhanced through Resilient Generative Adversarial Networks Secured by Blockchain: Application to UAS-S4 Ehécatl
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Mohammad , Hashemi Seyed Ali , Botez Ruxandra Mihaela , Ghazi Georges
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces a novel and robust data-driven algorithm designed for Aircraft Trajectory Prediction (ATP). The approach employs a Neural Network architecture to predict future aircraft trajectories, utilizing input variables such as latitude, longitude, altitude, heading, speed, and time. The model’s foundation is rooted in the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) framework, known for its inherent generative capabilities, rendering it remarkably resilient against Adversarial Attacks. To enhance its credibility, the Blockchain is employed as a Ledger Technology (LT) to securely store legitimate predicted values utilized in subsequent trajectory predictions. The Blockchain ensures that only authorized and non-adversarial samples are stored in the blocks, rejecting any adversarial predictions. In the validation process, trajectory data for training the GAN model were generated through the UAS-S4 Ehécatl simulation model. The performance evaluation relies on the model’s resistance to adversarial attacks, measured by fooling rates. The results acquired affirm the excellent efficacy of the GAN model, Secured by Blockchain, approaching against adversarial attacks.
Nutritional Quality and Overall Acceptability Optimization of Ultra-Fast Air-Superchilled Golden Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Stevanovski) Using the Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Kitanovski Vladimir D. , Dragoev Stefan G. , Nikolov Hristo N. , Vlahova-Vangelova Desislava B. , Balev Dessislav K.
Published: August 2023

Temperatures below the cryoscopic point help to partially freeze most of the water in the fish muscle tissue. This reduces water activity and makes the remaining free water hardly accessible to microorganisms. The objective of this study was to determine the best process regime of ultra-fast air-superchilling, giving us the optimal quality of golden rainbow trout. Two hundred and thirty-four live golden rainbow trout (Oncorchynchus mykiss, Stevanovski) (18 groups of 13 fish in a group) were caught and immediately stunned by an electric current (P = 42 W). The stunned fish was placed in styrofoam cans and covered with flaked ice. The sensory analysis, total nitrogen volatile bases (TVB-N), total number of microorganisms (TVC), and presence of biogenic amines were determined. According to the optimized values for TVB-N, TVC, and sensory scores, giving us a better quality of ultra-fast air-superchilled golden rainbow, the process regime has been found at the following parameters: air temperature T = −11.3 °C; airflow velocity υ = 6.5 m s−1; and packaging layer thickness D = 79.2 μ. The superchilled golden rainbow trout processed by this regime has the lowest degree of proteolytic degradation, delayed development of the microflora, and retains the best possible sensory properties and freshness.
Supervised Video Cloth Simulation: Exploring Softness and Stiffness Variations on Fabric Types Using Deep Learning
Authors: Mao Makara , Va Hongly , Lee Ahyoung , Hong Min
Published: August 2023

Physically based cloth simulation requires a model that represents cloth as a collection of nodes connected by different types of constraints. In this paper, we present a coefficient prediction framework using a Deep Learning (DL) technique to enhance video summarization for such simulations. Our proposed model represents virtual cloth as interconnected nodes that are subject to various constraints. To ensure temporal consistency, we train the video coefficient prediction using Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM), and Transformer models. Our lightweight video coefficient network combines Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and a Transformer to capture both local and global contexts, thus enabling highly efficient prediction of keyframe importance scores for short-length videos. We evaluated our proposed model and found that it achieved an average accuracy of 99.01%. Specifically, the accuracy for the coefficient prediction of GRU was 20%, while LSTM achieved an accuracy of 59%. Our methodology leverages various cloth simulations that utilize a mass-spring model to generate datasets representing cloth movement, thus allowing for the accurate prediction of the coefficients for virtual cloth within physically based simulations. By taking specific material parameters as input, our model successfully outputs a comprehensive set of geometric and physical properties for each cloth instance. This innovative approach seamlessly integrates DL techniques with physically based simulations, and it therefore has a high potential for use in modeling complex systems.
Clear Aligner Treatment as a Safe Method for Treating Occlusal Trauma in Elderly Patients
Authors: Machoy Monika , Tomasik Małgorzata , Samulak Renata , Brzezińska-Zając Aleksandra , Woźniak Krzysztof , Szyszka-Sommerfeld Liliana
Published: August 2023

The case report presents an interdisciplinary treatment of a 65-year-old patient in whom an improper zirconium oxide-based prosthetic crown on tooth 21 resulted in occlusal trauma, causing displacement and extrusion of the tooth as well as its increased mobility to the second degree according to the Miller scale. The change in the position of tooth 21 led to the displacement of the teeth in the lower arch. The traumatic occlusion was eliminated with a short clear aligner treatment of fourteen aligners (seven basic and seven additional) of both arches followed by aligner retention. The treatment lasted 140 days. A clinical improvement in the periodontal condition and long-term increased stabilization of the loose tooth was obtained. After one year of retention, the tooth is still stable, and no sign of periodontal disease or recurrence of the occlusal trauma is noticeable.
Determination of Crop Soil Quality for Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni Morita II Using a Fuzzy Logic Model and a Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Vejar-Cortés Angel-Primitivo , García-Díaz Noel , Soriano-Equigua Leonel , Ruiz-Tadeo Ana-Claudia , Álvarez-Flores José-Luis
Published: August 2023

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni Morita II, a perennial plant native to Paraguay and Brazil, is also widely cultivated in the state of Colima, Mexico, for its use as a sweetener in food and beverages. The optimization of soil parameters is crucial for maximizing biomass production and stevioside levels in stevia crops. This research presents the development and implementation of a monitoring system to track essential soil parameters, including pH, temperature, humidity, electrical conductivity, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The system employs a wireless sensor network to collect quasi-real-time data, which are transmitted and stored in a web-based platform. A Mamdani-type fuzzy logic model is utilized to process the collected data and provide farmers an integrated assessment of soil quality. By comparing the quality data output of the fuzzy logic model with a linear regression model, the system demonstrated acceptable performance, with a determination coefficient of 0.532 for random data and 0.906 for gathered measurements. The system enables farmers to gain insights into the soil quality of their stevia crops and empowers them to take preventive and corrective actions to improve the soil quality specifically for stevia crops.
Screening of Rhizobacterial Isolates from Apple Rhizosphere for Their Biocontrol and Plant Growth Promotion Activity
Authors: Jabiri Salma , Legrifi Ikram , Benhammou Majda , Laasli Salah-Eddine , Mokrini Fouad , Amraoui Mohammed Bendriss , Lahlali Rachid
Published: August 2023

Apple crops are prone to several diseases that limit their production—in particular, root rot caused by a new genus of oomycetes, mainly Phytopythium vexans. This study aims to screen antagonistic bacteria that can play an important role in the biological control of this pathogenic oomycete and to evaluate their capacity to promote plant growth. The dual culture test revealed that, out of 200 bacterial isolates, 16 have been able to inhibit the mycelial growth of P. vexans with inhibition rates greater than 50%. The selected isolates were identified based on the 16S rDNA genes: 14 bacteria belonging to the genus Bacillus, Stenotrophomonas, and the family Enterobacteriaceae. Notably, two isolates, B1 and M2-6 (identified as Bacillus velezensis), demonstrated the highest inhibition rates of 70% and 68%, respectively. These selected isolates were examined for their ability to produce different compounds related to biocontrol and plant growth promotion. Furthermore, the 16 selected isolates were evaluated for their ability to produce compounds associated with biocontrol and plant growth promotion, including hydrolytic enzymes (cellulases, proteases, and amylases), HCN (hydrogen cyanide) production, phosphate solubilization, IAA (indole-3-acetic acid) production, pectinase production, and stimulation of sorghum bicolor growth in vivo. Variations were observed among the bacterial isolates in terms of their compound production and phytostimulation capabilities. However, the secretion of proteases was consistently detected in all antagonistic isolates. The presence of genes responsible for the production of antifungal lipopeptides (bacillomycin, fengycin, and iturin) in the selected bacterial isolates was determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques, while the absence of genes involved in surfactin biosynthesis was also confirmed through PCR studies. These isolates demonstrated inhibitory activity through the production of proteases and antifungal lipopeptides. Further research is needed to explore their potential use in biological control strategies and to improve apple crop productivity.
Simulation of Dynamic Evolution of Ring Current Ion Flux by a Lunar Base Energetic Neutral Atom (ENA) Imaging
Authors: Lu Li , Yu Qinglong , Jia Shuai , Xie Zhong , Lan Jian , Chang Yuan
Published: August 2023

The distribution of energetic ion flux in the ring current region, such as a meteorological cumulonimbus cloud, stores up the particle energy for a geomagnetic substorm. It is helpful to study the geomagnetic substorm mechanism by using a lunar base ENA imaging simulation of the dynamic evolution of the ring current, and establishing the corresponding relationship between key node events of the substorm. Based on the previous observation experience and our simulation results of the dynamic evolution of the ring current, we propose a macroscopic model of substorms related to the dynamic evolution of ring currents and present the possibility of confirming the causal sequence of some of those critical node events of substorms with the lunar base ENA imaging measurement. IBEX, operating in the ecliptic plane, may even give examples of the telemetry of ring current ion fluxes through ENA measurements during substorms/quiets.
Lp-Mapping Properties of a Class of Spherical Integral Operators
Authors: Hawawsheh Laith , Qazza Ahmad , Saadeh Rania , Zraiqat Amjed , Batiha Iqbal M.
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we study a class of spherical integral operators IΩf. We prove an inequality that relates this class of operators with some well-known Marcinkiewicz integral operators by using the classical Hardy inequality. We also attain the boundedness of the operator IΩf for some 1<p<2 whenever Ω belongs to a certain class of Lebesgue spaces. In addition, we introduce a new proof of the optimality condition on Ω in order to obtain the L2-boundedness of IΩ. Generally, the purpose of this work is to set up new proofs and extend several known results connected with a class of spherical integral operators.
A Perturbed Milne’s Quadrature Rule for n-Times Differentiable Functions with Lp-Error Estimates
Authors: Hazaymeh Ayman , Saadeh Rania , Hatamleh Raed , Alomari Mohammad W. , Qazza Ahmad
Published: August 2023

In this work, a perturbed Milne’s quadrature rule for n-times differentiable functions with Lp-error estimates is derived. One of the most important advantages of our result is that it is verified for p-variation and Lipschitz functions. Several error estimates involving Lp-bounds are proven. These estimates are useful if the fourth derivative is unbounded in L∞-norm or the Lp-error estimate is less than the L∞-error estimate. Furthermore, since the classical Milne’s quadrature rule cannot be applied either when the fourth derivative is unbounded or does not exist, the proposed quadrature could be used alternatively. Numerical experiments showing that our proposed quadrature rule is better than the classical Milne rule for certain types of functions are also provided. The numerical experiments compare the accuracy of the proposed quadrature rule to the classical Milne rule when approximating different types of functions. The results show that, for certain types of functions, the proposed quadrature rule is more accurate than the classical Milne rule.
Global Dynamics of an Age-Structured Tuberculosis Model with Vaccine Failure and Nonlinear Infection Force
Authors: Guo Zhongkai , Zhang Liang
Published: August 2023

China bears a heavy burden due to tuberculosis (TB) with hundreds of thousands of people falling ill with the disease every year. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the effectiveness of current control measures in China. In this paper, we first present a TB model that incorporates both vaccination and treatment. Additionally, the model considers TB transmission characteristics such as relapse and variable latency. We then define the basic reproduction number R0 of the proposed model and indicate that the disease-free equilibrium state is globally asymptotically stable if R0<1, and the endemic equilibrium state is globally asymptotically stable if R0>1. We then apply the Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithm to obtain the parameters and initial values of the model by combining TB data collected in China from 2007 to 2020. Through the partial rank correlation coefficient method, we identify the parameters that are most sensitive to R0. Based on the analysis results of the model, we propose some suggestions for TB control measures in the conclusion section.
The FitzHugh–Nagumo Model Described by Fractional Difference Equations: Stability and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Hamadneh Tareq , Hioual Amel , Alsayyed Omar , Al-Khassawneh Yazan Alaya , Al-Husban Abdallah , Ouannas Adel
Published: August 2023

The aim of this work is to describe the dynamics of a discrete fractional-order reaction–diffusion FitzHugh–Nagumo model. We established acceptable requirements for the local asymptotic stability of the system’s unique equilibrium. Moreover, we employed a Lyapunov functional to show that the constant equilibrium solution is globally asymptotically stable. Furthermore, numerical simulations are shown to clarify and exemplify the theoretical results.
Emodin Inhibited Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy in Response to Angiotensin-Induced Hypertension and Altered the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Evans Levi , Price Tori , Hubert Nathaniel , Moore Julia , Shen Yiqui , Athukorala Maheshi , Frese Steven , Martinez-Guryn Kristina , Ferguson Bradley S.
Published: August 2023

Objective: Evidence suggests that food bioactives affect the epigenome to prevent pathological cardiac hypertrophy. Recently, we showed that emodin, an anthraquinone, attenuated pathological cardiac hypertrophy and histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity. However, we only examined the cardioprotective effects of emodin’s parent compound and not those of emodin metabolites or of emodin–gut microbiome interactions. The microbiome has emerged as a key player in chronic diseases such as metabolic and cardiac disease. Thus, we hypothesized that emodin could reverse hypertension-induced changes in microbial communities. Methods: Normo- and hypertensive (angiotensin II) C57/BL6 female mice were randomly assigned to receive a vehicle (Veh; DMSO:PEG 1:1) or emodin (Emod; 30 mg/kg) for 14 days. Body weights were collected pre- and post-treatment, and blood pressure was assessed via tail cuff. At the study’s end, the mice were euthanized and assessed for their heart weights. In addition, stool samples and cecal contents were collected to elucidate changes in the microbial populations using 16S rRNA sequencing. Lastly, the tissue was lysed, and RNA was isolated for qPCR. One-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test was performed unless otherwise specified, and p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Emodin significantly attenuated cardiac hypertrophy in the female mice. No significant changes were observed in body weight or systolic blood pressure in response to hypertension or emodin. Lastly, analysis suggests that hypertension altered the microbiome in the cecum and cecal content, with additional evidence to support that emodin affects gut microbiota in the feces and colon. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that emodin attenuates pathological hypertrophy in female mice. Future research is needed to dissect if changes in the microbiome contributes to emodin-mediated attenuation in cardiac remodeling.
Revisiting Schistosoma mansoni Micro-Exon Gene (MEG) Protein Family: A Tour into Conserved Motifs and Annotation
Authors: Nedvědová Štěpánka , De Stefano Davide , Walker Olivier , Hologne Maggy , Miele Adriana Erica
Published: August 2023

Genome sequencing of the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni revealed an interesting gene superfamily, called micro-exon gene (meg), that encodes secreted MEG proteins. The genes are composed of short exons (3–81 base pairs) regularly interspersed with long introns (up to 5 kbp). This article recollects 35 S. mansoni specific meg genes that are distributed over 7 autosomes and one pair of sex chromosomes and that code for at least 87 verified MEG proteins. We used various bioinformatics tools to produce an optimal alignment and propose a phylogenetic analysis. This work highlighted intriguing conserved patterns/motifs in the sequences of the highly variable MEG proteins. Based on the analyses, we were able to classify the verified MEG proteins into two subfamilies and to hypothesize their duplication and colonization of all the chromosomes. Together with motif identification, we also proposed to revisit MEGs’ common names and annotation in order to avoid duplication, to help the reproducibility of research results and to avoid possible misunderstandings.
Novel Anti-Melanoma Compounds Are Efficacious in A375 Cell Line Xenograft Melanoma Model in Nude Mice
Authors: Velayutham Sadeeshkumar , Seerattan Ryan , Sultan Maab , Seal Trisha , Danthurthy Samaya , Chinnappan Baskaran , Landi Jessica , Pearl Kaitlyn , Singh Aveta , Smalley Keiran S. M. , Zaias Julia , Choi Jun Yong , Minond Dmitriy
Published: August 2023

Despite the successes of immunotherapy, melanoma remains one of the deadliest cancers, therefore, the need for innovation remains high. We previously reported anti-melanoma compounds that work by downregulating spliceosomal proteins hnRNPH1 and H2. In a separate study, we reported that these compounds were non-toxic to Balb/C mice at 50 mg/kg suggesting their utility in in vivo studies. In the present study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of these compounds by testing them in A375 cell-line xenograft in nude athymic mice. Animals were randomized into four groups (n = 12/group): 10 mg/kg vemurafenib, and 25 mg/kg 2155-14 and 2155-18 thrice a week for 15 days along with a control group. The results revealed that both 2155-14 and 2155-18 significantly decreased the growth of A375 tumors, which was comparable to vemurafenib. These results were confirmed by tumor volume, weight, and histopathological examination. In conclusion, these results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of targeting spliceosomal proteins hnRNPH1 and H2.
Sequences of Alterations in Inflammation and Autophagy Processes in Rd1 Mice
Authors: Martínez-González Javier , Fernández-Carbonell Ángel , Cantó Antolin , Gimeno-Hernández Roberto , Almansa Inmaculada , Bosch-Morell Francisco , Miranda María , Olivar Teresa
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: the aim of this work was to study microglia and autophagy alterations in a one retinitis pigmentosa (RP) model at different stages of the disease (when rods are dying and later, when there are almost no rods, and cones are the cells that die. (2) Methods: rd1 mice were used and retinas obtained at postnatal days (PN) 11, 17, 28, 35, and 42. Iba1 (ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1) was the protein selected to study microglial changes. The macroautophagy markers Beclin-1, Atg5, Atg7, microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3), and lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) (involved in chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA)) were determined. (3) Results: the expression of Iba1 was increased in rd1 retinas compared to the control group at PN17 (after the period of maximum rod death), PN28 (at the beginning of the period of cone death), and PN42. The number of activated (ameboid) microglial cells increased in the early ages of the retinal degeneration and the deactivated forms (branched cells) in more advanced ages. The macroautophagy markers Atg5 at PN11, Atg7 and LC3II at PN17, and Atg7 again at PN28 were decreased in rd1 retinas. At PN35 and PN42, the results reveal alterations in LAMP2A, a marker of CMA in the retina of rd1 mice. (4) Conclusions: we can conclude that during the early phases of retinal degeneration in the rd1 mouse, there is an alteration in microglia and a decrease in the macroautophagy cycle. Subsequently, the CMA is decreased and later on appears activated as a compensatory mechanism.
A Hierarchical Framework for Quadruped Robots Gait Planning Based on DDPG
Authors: Li Yanbiao , Chen Zhao , Wu Chentao , Mao Haoyu , Sun Peng
Published: August 2023

In recent years, significant progress has been made in employing reinforcement learning for controlling legged robots. However, a major challenge arises with quadruped robots due to their continuous states and vast action space, making optimal control using simple reinforcement learning controllers particularly challenging. This paper introduces a hierarchical reinforcement learning framework based on the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm to achieve optimal motion control for quadruped robots. The framework consists of a high-level planner responsible for generating ideal motion parameters, a low-level controller using model predictive control (MPC), and a trajectory generator. The agents within the high-level planner are trained to provide the ideal motion parameters for the low-level controller. The low-level controller uses MPC and PD controllers to generate the foot-end force and calculates the joint motor torque through inverse kinematics. The simulation results show that the motion performance of the trained hierarchical framework is superior to that obtained using only the DDPG method.
Digit Ratio (2D:4D) Is Not Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease in the Elderly
Authors: Siegmann Eva-Maria , Olm Pauline , Lenz Bernd , Mühle Christiane , Oberstein Timo Jan , Maler Juan Manuel , Kornhuber Johannes
Published: August 2023

The development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is influenced by sex hormones—estrogens and androgens in particular. However, the impact of prenatal sex hormone exposure is less clear; very few investigations have examined the relationship between the second-to-fourth digit length ratio (2D:4D), a putative proxy for the ratio of prenatal estrogens to androgens, and AD, with inconsistent results among the few that have. Therefore, we aimed to investigate this relationship using methodologically robust metrics. In a 2 (sex) × 4 (group) MANOVA incorporating 108 participants (30 AD patients, 19 patients with tauopathy but no amyloidopathy, 31 clinical and 28 healthy age- and education-matched controls), the effects of sex and group on the dependent variables right and left 2D:4D were examined. We also explored the association between 2D:4D and the severity of AD symptoms assessed via neuropsychological examination. We did not find any significant differences in the right- and left-hand 2D:4D between patients with AD and the other groups; no significant associations between 2D:4D and neuropsychological task performances were found in the dementia groups. The 2D:4D of healthy women was significantly lower than that of depressed women without AD, i.e., clinical controls, but not significantly different from depressed female patients with AD. This investigation does not support the role of 2D:4D in the development or severity of AD in general, but suggests a potential role of 2D:4D for depression in women. Future studies are warranted to clarify whether 2D:4D can distinguish between early- and late-onset depression in women.
Analysis of Building Construction Jobsite Accident Scenarios Based on Big Data Association Analysis
Authors: Kim Ki-Nam , Kim Tae-Hoon , Lee Min-Jae
Published: August 2023

Although there have been many studies related to construction site safety that have tried to reduce accidents, no significant improvement has been reported. Because of the complex nature of construction work processes, it is important to have a scenario-based worksite safety management system instead of reports such as safety guidelines and manuals. This study utilizes accumulated construction site accident big data, namely Construction Safety Management Integrated Information (CSI), to establish accident scenarios for different work types. To propose accident occurrence scenarios, the hazard profile managed by CSI and prior research analyses are employed for each work type and cause materials at the construction site. For accident occurrence association rules, we developed a framework based on Work Breakdown Structure–Risk Breakdown Structure (WBS-RBS) for reinforced concrete work, temporary work, and earthwork, considering 25,986 accident cases. Subsequently, association analysis was conducted to derive association rules for each work type. The accident occurrence scenarios were extracted by classifying work types (project type, activity type) and cause materials (object, location). The analysis generated 145 association rules, and 76 association rules for reinforced concrete work, temporary work, and earthwork work were extracted to derive accident scenarios, considering scenarios with high accident frequency. Furthermore, by establishing association rules between work processes, we derived accident types and occurrence rules frequently observed at construction sites. These rules formed the basis for constructing accident occurrence scenarios for each construction type based on WBS-RBS. These findings facilitate the development of appropriate safety management plans and effective accident countermeasures tailored to specific construction types and causes. The developed scenarios will help to improve construction site safety by providing useful information for safety managers and worker training.
Light Environment Evaluation of the Architecturalized Immer-sive New Media Public Art Installation from the Audiences’ Visual Safety Perspective
Authors: Yan Yonghong , Zhong Yi , Zhang Bohan , Weng Ziming , Niu Shuhui , Zeng Yue , Cheng Xiang , Zhong Biao
Published: August 2023

How to balance the artistry and comfort of the light environment in an architecturalized immersive new media public art installation (AINMPAI) to ensure the safety of the audiences’ visual safety has become a new issue. The lack of corresponding lighting design standards makes this issue more challenging. This paper explores the appropriate luminance range of the irregularly curved LED screens of the AINMPAI with high-luminance natural light as the background. The influence of the audience behavior mode on the brightness threshold of the LED screens in the AINMPAI under the background of Internet communication is discussed. Through software simulation and field measurement, the effectiveness of the design measures based on the local characteristics of the work is verified. The overall average luminance, the regional luminance, the partial luminance, and the corresponding luminance contrast of the inner screen surface were measured at every 10° change in the solar altitude angle during daytime. The nighttime light environment parameters and the temperature of the device throughout the day were also measured. A total of 487 visitors were interviewed for subjective evaluation of the comfort of the light and thermal environments. The results show that: (1) the overall average luminance cannot wholly describe the actual luminance of the critical parts of the special-shaped curved screen in the device and that two indicators, the regional luminance and the partial average luminance, need to be added; (2) the maximum brightness limit of LED screens in the daytime can be 1000 cd/m2 but at night it should be controlled within 200 cd/m2; (3) natural light is the main factor that causes the high average brightness and low contrast of the daytime device screen; (4) the recommended indicators for such artistic installations should balance the absolute values of average brightness, artistic effect, and transmission priority. This study can provide foundational data and a methodological reference for establishing AINMPAI light environment design guidelines or recommended standards based on audiences’ visual safety.