bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localized Modes and Photonic Band Gap Sensitivities with 1D Fibonacci Quasi-Crystals Filled with Sinusoidal Modulated Plasma
Authors: Ben Ali Naim , Trabelsi Youssef , Alsaif Haitham , Kahouli Omar , Elleuch Zied
Published: July 2023

Using the transfer matrix method, the electromagnetic responses of 1D deformed and non-deformed quasi-periodic photonic crystals arranged in accordance with the Fibonacci sequence are theoretically studied. The gallium selenide (GeSe) and plasma materials (that is, electron density) are used to construct the multilayer Fibonacci structures. If this study is experimentally validated in the future, we intend to insert two transparent polymer film materials at the top and bottom of the structure, which are intended to protect the plasma material and prevent it from escaping and spreading outside the structure. The effect of the order of the Fibonacci sequence, the deformation of the thickness of the layers using a mathematical rule and the role of the plasma material in the reflectance response are discussed. We notice that the position and the width of photonic band gaps are sensitive to the Fibonacci sequence, the thickness and the density of the plasma material layers. In addition, the intensity of the resonance peaks can be controlled by adjusting the plasma material properties. The width of the photonic band gaps can be notably enlarged by applying a structural deformation along the stacks. The proposed structures have potential applications in tunable filters, micro-cavities for LASER equipment, which allow us to obtain an intense laser, and they are very useful in the communication field.
On Sum-Free Subsets of Abelian Groups
Authors: de Amorim Renato Cordeiro
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we discuss some of the key properties of sum-free subsets of abelian groups. Our discussion has been designed with a broader readership in mind and is hence not overly technical. We consider answers to questions like the following: How many sum-free subsets are there in a given abelian group G? What are its sum-free subsets of maximum cardinality? What is the maximum cardinality of these sum-free subsets? What does a typical sum-free subset of G look like?
Solutions for Some Specific Mathematical Physics Problems Issued from Modeling Real Phenomena: Part 2
Authors: Meghea Irina
Published: July 2023

This paper brings together methods to solve and/or characterize solutions of some problems of mathematical physics equations involving p-Laplacian and p-pseudo-Laplacian. Using the widely debated results of surjectivity or variational approaches, one may obtain or characterize weak solutions for Dirichlet or Newmann problems for these important operators. The relevance of these operators and the possibility to be involved in the modeling of an important class of real phenomena is once again revealed by their applications. The use of certain variational methods facilitates the complete solution of the problem using appropriate numerical methods and computational algorithms. Some theoretical results are involved to complete the solutions for a sequence of models issued from real phenomena drawing.
Molecular Modeling Insights into Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) as a Potential Matrix for Immobilization of Lipase: An In Silico Study
Authors: Patil Prasanna J. , Kamble Subodh A. , Dhanavade Maruti J. , Liang Xin , Zhang Chengnan , Li Xiuting
Published: July 2023

CRL is a highly versatile enzyme that finds extensive utility in numerous industries, which is attributed to its selectivity and catalytic efficiency, which have been impeded by the impracticality of its implementation, leading to a loss of native catalytic activity and non-reusability. Enzyme immobilization is a necessary step for enabling its reuse, and it provides methods for regulating the biocatalyst’s functional efficacy in a synthetic setting. MOFs represent a novel category of porous materials possessing distinct superlative features that make MOFs an optimal host matrix for developing enzyme-MOF composites. In this study, we employed molecular modeling approaches, for instance, molecular docking and MD simulation, to explore the interactions between CRL and a specific MOF, ZIF-8. The present study involved conducting secondary structural analysis and homology modeling of CRL, followed by docking ZIF-8 with CRL. The results of the molecular docking analysis indicate that ZIF-8 was situated within the active site pocket of CRL, where it formed hydrogen bonds with Val-81, Phe-87, Ser-91, Asp-231, Thr-132, Lue-297, Phe-296, Phe-344, Thr-347, and Ser-450. The MD simulation analysis revealed that the CRL and ZIF-8 docked complex exhibited stability over the entire simulation period, and all interactions presented in the initial docked complex were maintained throughout the simulation. The findings derived from this investigation could promote comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between CRL and ZIF-8 as well as the development of immobilized CRL for diverse industrial purposes.
Emergence of the Synucleins
Authors: Marín Ignacio
Published: July 2023

This study establishes the origin and evolutionary history of the synuclein genes. A combination of phylogenetic analyses of the synucleins from twenty-two model species, characterization of local synteny similarities among humans, sharks and lampreys, and statistical comparisons among lamprey and human chromosomes, provides conclusive evidence for the current diversity of synuclein genes arising from the whole-genome duplications (WGDs) that occurred in vertebrates. An ancestral synuclein gene was duplicated in a first WGD, predating the diversification of all living vertebrates. The two resulting genes are still present in agnathan vertebrates. The second WGD, specific to the gnathostome lineage, led to the emergence of the three classical synuclein genes, SNCA, SNCB and SNCG, which are present in all jawed vertebrate lineages. Additional WGDs have added new genes in both agnathans and gnathostomes, while some gene losses have occurred in particular species. The emergence of synucleins through WGDs prevented these genes from experiencing dosage effects, thus avoiding the potential detrimental effects associated with individual duplications of genes that encode proteins prone to aggregation. Additional insights into the structural and functional features of synucleins are gained through the analysis of the highly divergent synuclein proteins present in chondrichthyans and agnathans.
Biological Macromolecule-Based Scaffolds for Urethra Reconstruction
Authors: Farzamfar Saeed , Richer Megan , Rahmani Mahya , Naji Mohammad , Aleahmad Mehdi , Chabaud Stéphane , Bolduc Stéphane
Published: July 2023

Urethral reconstruction strategies are limited with many associated drawbacks. In this context, the main challenge is the unavailability of a suitable tissue that can endure urine exposure. However, most of the used tissues in clinical practices are non-specialized grafts that finally fail to prevent urine leakage. Tissue engineering has offered novel solutions to address this dilemma. In this technology, scaffolding biomaterials characteristics are of prime importance. Biological macromolecules are naturally derived polymers that have been extensively studied for various tissue engineering applications. This review discusses the recent advances, applications, and challenges of biological macromolecule-based scaffolds in urethral reconstruction.
Human iPSC-Derived 3D Hepatic Organoids in a Miniaturized Dynamic Culture System
Authors: Calamaio Serena , Serzanti Marialaura , Boniotti Jennifer , Fra Annamaria , Garrafa Emirena , Cominelli Manuela , Verardi Rosanna , Poliani Pietro Luigi , Dotti Silvia , Villa Riccardo , Mazzoleni Giovanna , Dell’Era Patrizia , Steimberg Nathalie
Published: July 2023

The process of identifying and approving a new drug is a time-consuming and expensive procedure. One of the biggest issues to overcome is the risk of hepatotoxicity, which is one of the main reasons for drug withdrawal from the market. While animal models are the gold standard in preclinical drug testing, the translation of results into therapeutic intervention is often ambiguous due to interspecies differences in hepatic metabolism. The discovery of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and their derivatives has opened new possibilities for drug testing. We used mesenchymal stem cells and hepatocytes both derived from hiPSCs, together with endothelial cells, to miniaturize the process of generating hepatic organoids. These organoids were then cultivated in vitro using both static and dynamic cultures. Additionally, we tested spheroids solely composed by induced hepatocytes. By miniaturizing the system, we demonstrated the possibility of maintaining the organoids, but not the spheroids, in culture for up to 1 week. This timeframe may be sufficient to carry out a hypothetical pharmacological test or screening. In conclusion, we propose that the hiPSC-derived liver organoid model could complement or, in the near future, replace the pharmacological and toxicological tests conducted on animals.
Obesity in Severe COVID-19 Patients Has a Distinct Innate Immune Phenotype
Authors: Resende Ayane de Sá , de Oliveira Yrna Lorena Matos , de Franca Mariana Nobre Farias , Magalhães Lucas Sousa , Correa Cristiane Bani , Fukutani Kiyoshi Ferreira , Lipscomb Michael Wheeler , de Moura Tatiana Rodrigues
Published: July 2023

Obesity alters the capacity of effective immune responses in infections. To further address this phenomenon in the context of COVID-19, this study investigated how the immunophenotype of leukocytes was altered in individuals with obesity in severe COVID-19. This cross-sectional study enrolled 27 ICU COVID-19 patients (67% women, 56.33 ± 19.55 years) that were assigned to obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, n = 9) or non-obese (BMI < 30kg/m2, n = 18) groups. Monocytes, NK, and both Low-Density (LD) and High-Density (HD) neutrophils were isolated from peripheral blood samples, and surface receptors’ frequency and expression patterns were analyzed by flow cytometry. Clinical status and biochemical data were additionally evaluated. The frequency of monocytes was negatively correlated with BMI, while NK cells and HD neutrophils were positively associated (p < 0.05). Patients with obesity showed a significant reduction of monocytes, and these cells expressed high levels of PD-L1 (p < 0.05). A higher frequency of NK cells and increased expression of TREM-1+ on HD neutrophils were detected in obese patients (p < 0.05). The expression of receptors related to antigen-presentation, phagocytosis, chemotaxis, inflammation and suppression were strongly correlated with clinical markers only in obese patients (p < 0.05). Collectively, these outcomes revealed that obesity differentially affected, and largely depressed, innate immune response in severe COVID-19.
Eligibility for Photoimmunotherapy in Patients with Unresectable Advanced or Recurrent Head and Neck Cancer and Changes before and after Systemic Therapy
Authors: Shinozaki Takeshi , Matsuura Kazuto , Okano Wataru , Tomioka Toshifumi , Nishiya Yukio , Machida Michiko , Hayashi Ryuichi
Published: July 2023

Photoimmunotherapy is a novel cancer treatment that recently became covered by national health insurance in Japan, but treatment decision-making remains challenging for unresectable advanced or recurrent head and neck cancer. We aimed to clarify the characteristics of patients for whom photoimmunotherapy was indicated by a retrospective chart review. Patients aged ≥20 years diagnosed with advanced or recurrent head and neck cancer who started receiving systemic therapy at the National Cancer Center Hospital East from January 2016 through December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Before and after first-line systemic therapy, patients were classified into 3 groups according to eligibility for photoimmunotherapy: eligible, potentially eligible, and ineligible. In total, of 246 patients evaluated—194 after exclusions were analyzed—108 were deemed ineligible for treatment. Of the remaining 86 patients, 8 were considered potentially eligible and 9 eligible. Of the nine eligible patients, four became ineligible after receiving first-line systemic therapy due to disease progression. Our results suggest that the indication of photoimmunotherapy should be considered before, during, and after systemic therapy for unresectable locally advanced or recurrent head and neck cancer.
Potential Molecular Targets in the Treatment of Patients with CNS Tumors
Authors: Pan Edward
Published: July 2023

The challenges in identifying effective therapies for CNS tumors continue to be daunting [...]
Au Clusters Supported on Defect-Rich Ni-Ti Oxides Derived from Ultrafine Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) for CO Oxidation at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Takahashi Ayu , Nakayama Akihiro , Murayama Toru , Sakaguchi Norihito , Shimada Tetsuya , Takagi Shinsuke , Ishida Tamao
Published: July 2023

Ultrafine layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have abundant hydroxy groups at their edge sites, serving as anchor sites for metal NPs. Furthermore, transformation of ultrafine LDHs into mixed metal oxides (MMOs) generates abundant oxygen vacancies, which are advantageous for O2 activation during Au-catalyzed CO oxidation. We used ultrafine Ni-Ti LDHs with low crystallinity or Ni-Ti MMOs supported on SiO2 onto which Au NPs were deposited by deposition–precipitation (DP) and DP–urea (DPU). The catalytic activity of the Au catalysts was significantly affected by the preparation method, with the highest activity obtained by depositing Au onto LDH/SiO2 by DPU, followed by transformation of LDH to MMO (Au/Ni-Ti MMO/SiO2 (LDH-DPU)). The presence of Au on LDHs affected the transformation of LDHs into MMOs, resulting in LDH-DPU having the greatest number of oxygen vacancies in the TiO2 domain in MMOs. Consequently, the adsorbed or the lattice oxygen on the surface of LDH-DPU can be easily utilized for CO oxidation at low temperatures. Moreover, the catalytic activity of LDH-DPU increased with water vapor concentration up to 100% relative humidity at room temperature, suggesting the potential of Au/Ni-Ti MMO/SiO2 as an air purification catalyst.
Rhodium-Catalyzed Alkylation of Aromatic Ketones with Allylic Alcohols and α,β-Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Li Wan-Di , Zhang Jia-Shuo , Zhang Lin-Yan , Liu Zhong-Wen , Fan Juan , Shi Xian-Ying
Published: July 2023

The direct transition-metal-catalyzed addition of C–H bonds to unsaturated C=X (X=C, O, and N) bonds via C–H bond activation has been recognized as a powerful tool for the construction of C–C bonds (in terms of atom and step economy). Herein, the direct rhodium-catalyzed C–H bond addition of aromatic ketones to allylic alcohols and α,β-unsaturated ketones that affords β-aryl carbonyl compounds is described, in which a ketone carbonyl acts as a weakly coordinating directing group. It was found that the type of alkyl in aromatic ketones is crucial for the success of the reaction. This transformation provides a convenient and efficient methodology for the synthesis of 2-alkyl aromatic ketones in moderate-to-excellent yields.
Patterns of Sun Protection Behaviours among Australian Adolescents and Adults over a Six-Year Period
Authors: Thoonen Karlijn , Woodhouse Sade , Minto Carolyn , Blane Sally , Talati Zenobia
Published: July 2023

The major cause for skin cancer is the excessive and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which can be prevented by engaging in sun protection behaviours. As longitudinal studies on both adolescents’ and adults’ performances of sun protection behaviours are limited, the current study aimed to investigate changes in sun protection in these population segments in Western Australia, a region with high annual UVR. During six summer seasons (2015/16 to 2020/21), cross-sectional surveys were conducted among 1806 adolescents (14 to 17 years old) and 1808 adults (18–45 years old), investigating the frequency of five sun protection behaviours (wearing clothing, applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, wearing sunglasses, and seeking shade) and sun avoidance (staying indoors). Over the six-year period, staying indoors increased in both groups. Among adolescents, a decrease in wearing clothing and sunglasses and an increase in seeking shade was demonstrated, and hat and sunscreen use remained relatively stable. Among adults, an increase in sunscreen use was shown, whereas all other sun-related behaviours remained consistent over the six-year period. The results from this study can provide directions for health communications focusing on improving sun protection behaviours among both adolescent and adult populations.
Nomogram Based on Liver Function Test Indicators for Survival Prediction in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patients Receiving PD-1 Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Liang Lixia , Li Yan , Hong Yansui , Ji Tianxing , Chen Hao , Lin Zhifang
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic significance of PD-1 inhibitor therapy in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and to develop a nomogram to estimate individual risks. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 162 NPC patients who were administered the PD-1 inhibitor combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy at the Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center. In total, 108 NPC patients were included in the training cohort and 54 NPC patients were included in the validation cohort. Univariate and multivariate Cox survival analyses were performed to determine the prognostic factors for 1-year and 2-year progression-free survival (PFS). In addition, a nomogram model was constructed to predict the survival probability of PFS. A consistency index (C-index), a decision curve, a clinical impact curve, and a standard curve were used to measure predictive accuracy, the clinical net benefit, and the consistency of prognostic factors. Results: Univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that the metastasis stage, the levels of ALT, the AST/ALT ratio, and the LDH were independent risk factors associated with the prognosis of PD-1 inhibitor therapy. A nomogram based on these four indicators was constructed and the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that patients with a higher total score have a shorter PFS. The C-index of this model was 0.732 in the training cohort and 0.847 in the validation cohort, which are higher than those for the TNM stages (training cohort: 0.617; validation cohort: 0.727; p <0.05). Decision Curve Analysis (DCA), Net Reclassification Improvement (NRI), and Integrated Discrimination Improvement (IDI) showed that our model has better prediction accuracy than TNM staging. Conclusions: Predicting PFS in NPC patients based on liver function-related indicators before PD-1 treatment may help clinicians predict the efficacy of PD-1 treatment in these patients.
Exercise Programming Modelling a Standard of Care Approach Improves Physical Health and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Individuals Living with Breast Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kendall Stephanie J. , Heinze Stefan , Blanchard Chris , Chiekwe Joy C. , Melvin Jennifer , Culos-Reed Nicole , McNeely Margaret L. , Keats Melanie R. , Grandy Scott A.
Published: July 2023

Controlled study designs widely report that exercise improves the health of individuals living with breast cancer. Still, many individuals living with breast cancer are not active enough to experience the benefits of exercise. The Activating Cancer Communities through an Exercise Strategy for Survivors study was developed to reach more individuals living with cancer. This report describes the effects of a 12-week individualized exercise program that models a standard-of-care approach on body composition, physical fitness, and patient-reported outcomes in individuals living with breast cancer. Individuals living with breast cancer were recruited for the study and completed an exercise program twice weekly overseen by a Clinical Exercise Physiologist. A total of 43 participants completed the exercise intervention, and 36 withdrew from the study. All participants had significantly improved aerobic fitness, waist circumference, hip circumference, lower body endurance, physical activity behaviour, health-related quality of life, emotional status, and fatigue levels after completing the program. Flexibility, balance, and sleep scores did not change. The results from the 12-week individualized exercise program largely align with the results from more controlled study designs. These results support future initiatives integrating exercise therapy into the standard of care for individuals living with breast cancer.
Exploring the Drivers of Spatiotemporal Patterns in Fish Community in a Non-Fed Aquaculture Reservoir
Authors: Wang Gongpei , Sang Shilei , Zhou Zanhu , Wang Dapeng , Chen Xin , Li Yusen , Guo Chuanbo , Zhou Lei
Published: July 2023

Non-fed aquaculture is an important contributor to low environmental impact protein production. However, knowledge of spatiotemporal patterns of the fish community in non-fed fishery systems remains limited, despite their ecological importance for sustainable aquaculture and fisheries. To elucidate the status of the fisheries and their critical drivers in non-fed fishery systems, hydroacoustic surveys were conducted seasonally in Hongchaojiang Reservoir in two seasons (spring and autumn) of two consecutive years: 2018 and 2019. Results showed that the average fish density in Hongchaojiang Reservoir was 121.6 ind./1000 m3. Fish communities varied significantly between geographical locations and seasons. On the temporal scale, fish densities in October were higher than those in April. On the spatial scale, fish densities were higher in the upstream (S1 and S3) than those in the midstream (S2, S4, S5, S6), while the density of S7, S8 and S9 in the downstream was the lowest. Trophic level index, zooplankton, chlorophyll-a, and phytoplankton play vital roles in fish distributional patterns, while the target strength, which reflects fish body size, was highly associated with water temperature, dissolved oxygen, total organic carbon, and phytoplankton. These results suggest that the spatiotemporal distribution of the fish community in Hongchaojiang Reservoir was jointly influenced by biotic and abiotic variables of water bodies, and highlight the importance of water nutrient levels and food availability in shaping fish distribution in the non-fed aquaculture system. This study should improve our understanding of ecological patterns and dominant drivers in fish stocks and provide information for successful sustainable management in non-fed purification fisheries.
The Current Diversity and Distribution of the Simple Thalloid Genus Apopellia (Marchantiophyta): Evidence from an Integrative Taxonomic Study
Authors: Konstantinova Nadezhda A. , Vilnet Anna A. , Mamontov Yuriy S.
Published: July 2023

An integrative study of expanded sampling of Apopellia species, including the topotype of Apopellia megaspora, made it possible to clarify the taxonomic position and distribution of the species of the genus. The ITS1-2 and trnL-F sequence data were obtained for 36 molecularly tested specimens, including the topotype Apopellia megaspora, that together with data previously deposited in GenBank, support the treatment of Apopellia as a separate genus and A. alpicola as a distinct species, as well as radically change the idea on the distribution of the species of the genus. It is shown that A. megaspora is an American-Asian species with single records in Europe, whereas A. alpicola is a West-American-Eurasian species widespread in western North America and occurring scattered in Eurasia. Both species occur in the mountains of western North America and south Siberia. A. endiviifolia is widespread in Europe, scattered in Asia and so far not confirmed for America. The expanded sampling of Apopellia spp. allows us to clarify the morphological features of the species of the genus, and microphotographs illustrate the more-important morphological features.
Nested Binary Classifier as an Outlier Detection Method in Human Activity Recognition Systems
Authors: Duraj Agnieszka , Duczymiński Daniel
Published: July 2023

The present article is devoted to outlier detection in phases of human movement. The aim was to find the most efficient machine learning method to detect abnormal segments inside physical activities in which there is a probability of origin from other activities. The problem was reduced to a classification task. The new method is proposed based on a nested binary classifier. Test experiments were then conducted using several of the most popular machine learning algorithms (linear regression, support vector machine, k-nearest neighbor, decision trees). Each method was separately tested on three datasets varying in characteristics and number of records. We set out to evaluate the effectiveness of the models, basic measures of classifier evaluation, and confusion matrices. The nested binary classifier was compared with deep neural networks. Our research shows that the method of nested binary classifiers can be considered an effective way of recognizing outlier patterns for HAR systems.
High-Temperature Mechanical Properties of NbTaHfTiZrV0.5 Refractory High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Liu Zhangquan , Shi Xiaohui , Zhang Min , Qiao Junwei
Published: July 2023

The NbTaHfTiZrV0.5 is a refractory multi-principal-element alloy with high strength and good ductility at room temperature. It is important for possible high-temperature applications to investigate the deformation mechanism of the NbTaHfTiZrV0.5 alloy at different temperatures using tensile tests. In this investigation, the tensile tests were conducted at room temperature to 1273 K on sheet materials fabricated by cold rolling combined with annealing treatments. At 473 K, the NbTaHfTiZrV0.5 alloy exhibited a high tensile ductility (12%). At a testing temperature range of 673~873 K, the ductility was reduced, but the yield strength remained above 800 MPa, which is rare in most other alloys. The TEM investigations revealed that a dislocation slip controlled the plastic deformation, and the degree of deformation was closely related to the dislocation density. The true stress–strain curves of the alloy under different deformation conditions were obtained by tensile deformation at different deformation temperatures (673~873 K) and strain rates (0.001~0.0005 s−1). Experimental results were utilized to construct the parameters of a constitutive model based on a traditional mathematical model to predict the flow behavior at high temperatures. The excellent high-temperature mechanical properties of the NbTaHfTiZrV0.5 alloy will enable it to be used in several engineering applications.
Promoting Positive Emotions during the Emergency Remote Teaching of English for Academic Purposes: The Unexpected Role of the Constructionist Approach
Authors: Kohnke Lucas , Foung Dennis
Published: July 2023

Despite the significant research on the effectiveness and challenges of emergency remote teaching (ERT) during the global COVID-19 pandemic, few studies have focused on the systematic facilitation of positive emotions by classroom teachers. This study aimed to identify the strategies that teachers of English for Academic Purposes (EAP) used during the ERT period, by interviewing 18 university English teachers in Hong Kong. Our results suggest that one traditional learning theory, the constructionist approach, played an unexpectedly important role in facilitating positive student emotions, as well as encouraging learning. Cognitively demanding tasks helped divert students’ attention away from the negative emotions they faced and towards their learning. Interactions also played an essential role in helping students learn and in reducing negative emotions. These results shed light on the significance of positive emotions in an online or ERT environment, with significant implications for university teachers who want their teaching to systematically promote positive emotions.
HoaKV: High-Performance KV Store Based on the Hot-Awareness in Mixed Workloads
Authors: Liu Jingyu , Fan Xiaoqin , Wu Youxi , Zheng Yong , Liu Lu
Published: July 2023

Key–value (KV) stores based on the LSM-tree have become the mainstream of contemporary store engines, but there are problems with high write and read amplification. Moreover, the real-world workload has a high data skew, and the existing KV store lacks hot-awareness, leading to its unreliable and poor performance on the highly skewed real-world workload. In this paper, we propose HoaKV, which unifies the key design ideas of hot issues, KV separation, and hybrid indexing technology in a system. Specifically, HoaKV uses the heat differentiation in KV pairs to manage the hot data and the cold data and conducts real-time dynamic adjustment data classification management. It also uses partial KV separation technology to manage differential KV pairs for large and small KV pairs in the cold data. In addition, HoaKV uses hybrid indexing technology to index the hot data and the cold data, respectively, to improve the performance of reading, writing, and scanning at the same time. In the mixed read and write workloads experments show that HoaKV performs significantly better than several state-of-the-art KV store technologies such as LevelDB, RocksDB, PebblesDB, and WiscKey.
A Collaborative Path Planning Method for Intelligent Agricultural Machinery Based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Shi Min , Feng Xia , Pan Senshan , Song Xiangmei , Jiang Linghui
Published: July 2023

The development of agricultural farming has evolved from traditional agricultural machinery due to its efficiency and autonomy. Intelligent agricultural machinery is capable of autonomous driving and remote control, but due to its limited perception of farmland and field obstacles, the assistance of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is required. Although existing intelligent systems have greater advantages than traditional agricultural machinery in improving the quality of operations and reducing labor costs, they also produce complex operational planning problems. Especially as agricultural products and fields become more diversified, it is necessary to develop an adaptive operation planning method that takes into account the efficiency and quality of work. However, the existing operation planning methods lack practicality and do not guarantee global optimization because traditional planners only consider the path commands and generate the path in the rectangular field without considering other factors. To overcome these drawbacks, this paper proposes a novel and practical collaborative path planning method for intelligent agricultural machinery based on unmanned aerial vehicles. First, we utilize UAVs for obstacle detection. With the field information and operation data preprocessed, automatic agricultural machinery could be assisted in avoiding obstacles in the field. Second, by considering both the historical state of the current operation and the statistics from previous operations, the real-time control of agricultural machinery is determined. Therefore, the K-means algorithm is used to extract key control parameters and discretize the state space of agricultural machinery. Finally, the dynamic operation plan is established based on the Markov chain. This plan can estimate the probability of agricultural machinery transitioning from one state to another by analyzing data, thereby dynamically determining real-time control strategies. The field test with an automatic tractor shows that the operation planner can achieve higher performance than the other two popular methods.
Digital Forensics for E-IoT Devices in Smart Cities
Authors: Kim Minju , Shon Taeshik
Published: July 2023

With the global expansion of urban infrastructure and development of 5G communication technology, advanced information and communications technology has been applied to power systems and the use of smart grids has increased. Smart grid systems collect energy data using Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, such as data concentrator units (DCUs) and smart meters, to effectively manage energy. Services and functions for energy management are being incorporated into home IoT devices. In this paper, the IoT for energy management in smart cities and smart homes is referred to as the E-IoT. Systems that use the E-IoT can efficiently manage data, but they present many potential security threats, because the E-IoT devices in such homes and enterprises are networked for energy management. Therefore, in this study, to identify vulnerabilities in the E-IoT device systems, digital forensics is applied to the E-IoT device systems. E-IoT devices supplied to Korean power systems were used to build a digital forensic test bed similar to actual E-IoT environments. For digital forensics application, E-IoT data acquisition and analysis methodology was proposed. The proposed methodology consisted of three methods—network packet data analysis, hardware interface analysis, and mobile device paired with E-IoT—which were applied to a DCU, smart meter, smart plug, smart heat controller, smart microwave, and smart monitoring system. On analyzing the user and system data acquired, artifacts such as the device name and energy consumption were derived. User accounts and passwords and energy-usage logs were obtained, indicating the possibility of leakage of personal information and the vulnerabilities of E-IoT devices.
A Cryo-CMOS, Low-Power, Low-Noise, Phase-Locked Loop Design for Quantum Computers
Authors: Xin Kewei , Lai Mingche , Lv Fangxu , Guo Kaile , Pang Zhengbin , Xu Chaolong , Zhang Geng , Wang Wenchen , Li Meng
Published: July 2023

This paper analyzes the performance requirements that need to be met by a clock generator applied to a low-temperature quantum computer and analyzes the negative effects on the clock generator circuit under low-temperature conditions. In order to meet the performance requirements proposed in this paper and suppress the negative effects brought about by the low temperature, a clock generator for ultra-low-temperature quantum computing is designed. This clock generator is designed by using F-CLASS Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO), power filter, tail resistor, differential charge pump, and other techniques. And the noise characteristics of the clock generator are analyzed by Impulse Sensitive Function (ISF) and simulation results. After simulation tests, the average power consumption of the clock generator designed in this paper is 7 mW, the phase noise is −121 dBc/Hz@1 MHz, and the jitter is 62 fs. The performance of the clock generator meets the performance requirements proposed in this paper, and the reduction in the corner frequency proves that the circuit will have better performance at low temperatures.
Demonstrative Application to an OECD/NEA Reactor Physics Benchmark of the 2nd-BERRU-PM Method—II: Nominal Computations Apparently Inconsistent with Measurements
Authors: Fang Ruixian , Cacuci Dan G.
Published: July 2023

This work presents illustrative applications of the 2nd-BERRU-PM (second-order best-estimate results with reduced uncertainties predictive modeling) methodology to the leakage response of a polyethylene-reflected plutonium OECD/NEA reactor physics benchmark, which is modeled using the neutron transport Boltzmann equation. The 2nd-BERRU-PM methodology simultaneously calibrates responses and parameters while simultaneously reducing the predicted standard deviation values of these quantities. The situations analyzed in this work pertain to the values of measured responses that appear to be inconsistent with the computed response values, in that the standard deviation values of the measured responses do not initially overlap with the standard deviation values of the computed responses. It is shown that the inconsistency diminishes as higher-order sensitivities are progressively included, thus illustrating their significant impact. In all cases, the 2nd-BERRU-PM methodology yields predicted best-estimate standard deviation values that are smaller than both the computed and the experimentally measured values of the standard deviation for the model response under consideration.
The Mine Shaft Energy Storage System—Implementation Threats and Opportunities
Authors: Siostrzonek Tomasz
Published: July 2023

For several years, research work has been carried out on energy storage that uses changes in the potential energy of masses being lifted or lowered. The energy of such a solution depends on the mass to be transported and the height to which the weight has to be lifted. Increasing the weight to be lifted is limited by the parameters of the mechanical components, such as ropes. Increasing the height, however, is difficult to implement, if only because of the weather conditions that affect the safe operation of such a system. In fact, the ideal solution is to use mine shafts, which in Poland are up to 1300 m deep. The progressive process of decommissioning the mining industry creates new opportunities to use this part of the infrastructure of mining plants for the construction of energy storage facilities. In the article, possible constructions of gravitational energy storage facilities based on existing hoisting machines are described. There are three main areas in which the operation of an energy store should be analysed if it were to be realised in a mine shaft. The mine shaft, as a working mine and for energy storage, is subject to relevant regulations that need to be met. To confirm the assumptions about the possible use of the existing infrastructure, measurements of one hoisting machine in Poland were carried out and example results of these measurements are included.
Experimental Investigation of Gas Transmission Pipeline Blockage Detection Based on Dynamic Pressure Method
Authors: Yan Kele , Xu Dianqiang , Wang Qiong , Chu Jiawei , Zhu Shengjie , Zhao Jiafei
Published: July 2023

The blockage of natural gas pipelines caused by solid deposits such as hydrates is one of the major safety risks to transmission pipeline systems. The key to effective blockage relief or removal is to determine the location and severity of the blockage. In recent years, the pressure pulse wave method has been considered as a practical detection method due to its fast response time, simplicity of operation, and extended detection distance. Nevertheless, the current implementation of this method in pipelines indicates that the accuracy in detecting blockages is very low. To improve the accuracy of the pressure wave blockage detection technique in our experiments, a series of experiments were carried out to detect and locate hydrate blockages in natural gas pipelines based on the pressure wave method using a separate pipeline system of 22 mm diameter and 106 m length. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the blockage location prediction based on the pressure pulse wave method is within 5%. Still, the blockage’s cross-sectional shape can significantly affect the intensity of the reflected wave, with a maximum prediction error of 35%.
System Hydrodynamics of a 1 MWth Dual Circulating Fluidized Bed Chemical Looping Gasifier
Authors: Dieringer Paul , Marx Falko , Ströhle Jochen , Epple Bernd
Published: July 2023

Chemical looping gasification (CLG) is a novel dual-fluidized bed gasification technology that allows for the production of high-calorific syngas from various solid feedstocks (e.g., biomass). Solid circulation between the two coupled fluidized bed reactors, serving the purpose of heat and oxygen transport, is a key parameter for the CLG technology, making system hydrodynamics the backbone of the gasification process. This study serves the purpose to provide holistic insights into the hydrodynamic behavior of the dual-fluidized bed reactor system. Here, special focus is placed on the operational principles of the setup as well as the entrainment from the circulating fluidized bed (CFB) reactors, the latter being the driving force for the solid circulation inside the entire reactor system. Using an elaborate dataset of over 130 operating periods from a cold flow model and 70 operating periods from a 1 MWth CLG pilot plant, a holistic set of ground rules for the operation of the reactor setup is presented. Moreover, a novel easily-applicable approach, solely relying on readily-available live data, is presented and validated using data from the 1 MWth chemical looping gasifier. Thereby, a straightforward estimation of solid entrainment from any CFB setup is facilitated, thus closing a crucial research gap.
Thermohydraulic Efficiency of a Solar Air Heater in the Presence of Graded Aluminium Wire Mesh—A Combined Experimental–Numerical Study
Authors: Diganjit Rawal , Gnanasekaran Nagaranjan , Mobedi Moghtada
Published: July 2023

In this work, aluminium wire mesh (WM) samples with 3, 9, and 18 pores per inch (PPI) and porosities of 0.894, 0.812, and 0.917, respectively, were combined together to form graded structures including 3-9-18, 9-18-3, and 18-3-9 PPIs. A 5 mm thickness for each WM was considered for a length of 2 m and inserted into a single-pass solar air heater (SAH) in which the height of the SAH was 120 mm. For the numerical analysis, a 3D numerical model was considered in ANSYS fluent software, and the Rosseland radiation model renormalization group (RNG) k-ε enhanced wall function was incorporated to account for solar radiation. The local thermal equilibrium (LTE) model was considered to obtain the heat-transfer characteristics of the WM. The numerical results of the thermohydraulic performance parameter (THPP) of the 9-18-3 PPI WM were 13.04% and 11.92% higher than the 3-9-18 and 18-3-9 PPI samples, respectively. Later, 25% of the 9-18-3 graded wire mesh (GWM) was considered at four different locations, i.e., 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 m away from the inlet, and analysed to obtain the best location for efficient heat transfer. The computational results show that 1.5 m away from the inlet is the best location among the different locations considered. The experimental results of the GWM at 1.5 m away from the inlet demonstrated a 20.91% and 23.32% increase in thermal efficiency compared to the empty channel for the 0.027 kg/s and 0.058 kg/s mass flow rates, respectively. From numerical-cum-experimental analysis, it was found that inserting 25% length of GWM of the entire length of the test section at a distance of 1.5 m from the inlet in single pass SAH improves the overall performance of the empty channel of single-pass SAH.
Structural Analysis and Lightweight Optimization of a Buoyant Rotor-Type Permanent Magnet Generator for a Direct-Drive Wind Turbine
Authors: Hwang Joon-Ha , Bang Deok-je , Jang Gang-Won
Published: July 2023

This study presents a structural analysis and optimization for the lightweight design of a buoyant rotor-type permanent magnet (BRPM) generator, which was first presented in Bang (2010), and compares its structural performance to that of a conventional generator with a spoke arm-type rotor and stator. The main benefit of a BRPM generator is that it can be constructed as a bearingless drive system, free from the mechanical failure of rotor bearings, by using a buoyant rotor. Additionally, the deformation of the generator by blade vibration can be effectively suppressed using joint couplings between the blades and the rotor. For design optimization, the objective is set as the mass of the rotor and the stator, and the maximum deformation of the airgap clearance between the rotor and the stator by external forces is constrained below 10% of the gap width. The commercial software OptiStruct is used for the analysis and optimization. In this investigation, the analysis and optimization are conducted for a 10 MW wind turbine generator. However, the proposed methods can be extended to larger generator designs without requiring considerable modification. The mass of the optimized 10 MW BRPM generator is 160.7 tons (19.3 tons for the rotor and 141.4 tons for the stator), while that of an optimized conventional spoke arm-type generator is 325.6 tons.
Effects of a Novel Starter Culture on Quality Improvement and Putrescine, Cadaverine, and Histamine Inhibition of Fermented Shrimp Paste
Authors: Li Xinyu , Zhang Yang , Ma Xinxiu , Zhang Gongliang , Hou Hongman
Published: July 2023

Fermented shrimp paste is a popular food in Asian countries. However, biogenic amines (BAs) are a typically associated hazard commonly found during the fermentation of shrimp paste and pose a food-safety danger. In this work, an autochthonic salt-tolerant Tetragenococcus muriaticus TS (T. muriaticus TS) strain was used as a starter culture for grasshopper sub shrimp paste fermentation. It was found that with the starter culture, putrescine, cadaverine, and histamine concentrations were significantly lower (p < 0.05) with a maximal reduction of 19.20%, 14.01%, and 28.62%, respectively. According to high-throughput sequencing data, T. muriaticus TS could change the interactions between species and reduce the abundance of bacterial genera positively associated with BAs, therefore inhibiting the BA accumulation during shrimp paste fermentation. Moreover, the volatile compounds during the fermentation process were also assessed by HS-SPME-GC-MS. With the starter added, the content of pyrazines increased, while the off-odor amines decreased. The odor of the shrimp paste was successfully improved. These results indicate that T. muriaticus TS can be used as an appropriate starter culture for improving the safety and quality of grasshopper sub shrimp paste.
Evaluation of the Long-Lasting Flavour Perception after the Consumption of Wines Treated with Different Types of Oenological Additives Considering Individual 6-n-Propylthiouracil Taster Status
Authors: Velázquez-Martínez Rafael I. , Criado Celia , Muñoz-González Carolina , Crespo Julia , Pozo-Bayón María Ángeles
Published: July 2023

Due to the limited scientific knowledge on the impact of commercial oenological additives on flavour perception, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of different types of oenological additives on the long-lasting flavour perception (flavour persistence) during wine tasting, also considering the effect of the individual PROP (6-n-propylthiouracil) taster status (PTS). To do so, white and red wines with two oenotannins (ellagitannin and gallotannin) and a commercial yeast mannoprotein were prepared. A control wine of each type was also made without additives. All the wines were spiked with a mixture of aromatic compounds responsible for the “fruity” and “woody” notes. Retronasal aroma and astringency were evaluated at the same time using time–intensity (TI) methodology and a trained panel (n = 40), including PROP non-tasters (NTs) and tasters (Ts). The results showed a significant effect of PTS on the long-lasting perception of astringency, being Ts who showed higher values than NTs for most TI parameters. However, PTS did not affect aroma persistence. In addition, the three oenological additives had an effect on astringency and retronasal aroma perception. They significantly increased the long-lasting perception of astringency compared to the control, while gallotannin also increased the persistence of the woody aroma.
Fear of Falling Score Is a Predictor of Falls in Community-Dwelling Pre-Frail and Frail Older People
Authors: Prieto-Contreras Lucía , Martínez-Arnau Francisco M. , Sancho-Cantus David , Cubero-Plazas Laura , Pérez-Ros Pilar
Published: July 2023

Identifying frail older people at risk of falling is a priority in order to apply preventive strategies. This cross-sectional study included community-dwelling pre-frail and frail people (Fried’s criteria) aged 70 years and older to assess the prevalence of falls and identify screening strategies based on comprehensive geriatric assessments to detect an increased risk of falling and recurrent falling in community-dwelling frail and pre-frail old people. Of the 229 participants, 121 (54.9%) had fallen in the previous 12 months, and 20 of these (16.5%) were recurrent fallers (≥2 falls). A score of 20 points or more on the Falls Efficacy Scale International was predictive of falling (area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve 0.67, 95% confidence interval: 0.61–0.74, p < 0.001) with a sensitivity of 51.7% and a specificity of 73.9%. Polypharmacy, Short Physical Performance Battery score of 8 points or less, and Falls Efficacy Scale International score of 20 points or more show an area under the curve of 0.78 (95% confidence interval: 0.67–0.89, p < 0.001) for recurrent falling.