bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Land Reserves for Agriculture in Indonesia: Suitability and Legal Aspect Supporting Food Sufficiency
Authors: Mulyani Anny , Mulyanto Budi , Barus Baba , Panuju Dyah Retno , Husnain
Published: April 2023

Information on land reserves is crucial and required to support agricultural development in relation to increased population pressure, food demand, and food security. This research aims to identify and evaluate idle abandoned land based on biophysical suitability, status of land concessions, and forest areas to determine potential land reserves for agricultural development to support food security in Indonesia. The results show that, at the national level, the area of suitable abandoned lands for agricultural extensification is 27.7 million ha, but most of these lands have concession permits and are located in forest areas, so 12.4 million ha are still available, with the largest area being in dry land. The identification of abandoned land by employing satellite imagery in 54 districts resulted in a smaller acreage compared to abandoned land being mapped formally at 1:250,000. After considering land ownership and forest status, both sources resulted in similar areas at a scale of 1:50,000 and 1:250,000, i.e., 6.1 million ha and 6.0 million ha, respectively. It seems that land ownership and forest status adjusted the total acreage of identified land reserves at different map scales. An area of around 7.4 million ha will be required to meet food demand in 2045 by assuming constant consumption per capita. We found about 1.7 million ha as potential land reserves, most of which are in conversion or production forests areas. Converting forests or utilizing drylands could be potential alternatives to deal with the lack of land for food production. Moreover, due to limited wetlands, the use of reserve land in that agroecological zone should be in accordance with its designation, comply with the priority principles, and be supported by government regulations and policies, so that food security can be maintained until 2045.
Designing Healing Environments: A Literature Review on the Benefits of Healing Gardens for Children in Healthcare Facilities and the Urgent Need for Policy Implementation
Authors: Din Shereen Khatoon-Jaan , Russo Alessio , Liversedge Jamie
Published: April 2023

Despite the well-known benefits of healing gardens for children in healthcare facilities, policies and guidelines for their implementation are lacking, leading to their undervaluation by policymakers. This literature review investigates the advantages of healing gardens for children’s health and wellbeing, with a focus on public-funded healthcare facilities. The review explores the definition of a healing garden, theories, the value of play, the impact on children’s development, and the environmental benefits of healing gardens. Additionally, the review presents successful examples of healing gardens in practice, while acknowledging potential arguments against them and associated risks. During the literature review, research gaps were identified, and areas for future research were also examined. Finally, this review calls for evidence-based guidelines for policymakers and designers to incorporate healing gardens into healthcare facilities, providing a comprehensive argument for their adoption and regular access for children.
Dietary Power and Self-Determination among Female Farmers in Burkina Faso: A Proposal for a Food Consumption Agency Metric
Authors: Tkaczyk Zoé , Moseley William G.
Published: April 2023

Although food security is traditionally defined with four dimensions, there are increasing calls for an additional two: agency and sustainability. However, it is especially challenging to measure agency, a person’s control over their food production and consumption. Measuring women’s agency is especially critical in African regions south of the Sahara, where women play prominent roles in farming and food preparation. This paper explores the feasibility of creating a metric to measure agency within food systems using data related to food security and dietary diversity among female rice farmers in southwestern Burkina Faso. Informed by the literature on agency, autonomy, and food sovereignty, we developed an agency index based upon a subset of questions in the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS). We call this metric the Food Consumption Agency Metric (FCAM). By applying the FCAM, we then sought to understand how agency complements our understanding and measurement of food security. In exploring the relationship between agency and food security more broadly, we found that agency can be quantified in a way that increases its accessibility to policymakers to create more just food systems and expand how we approach food justice.
Nitrogenous and Phosphorus Soil Contents in Tierra del Fuego Forests: Relationships with Soil Organic Carbon, Climate, Vegetation and Landscape Metrics
Authors: Martínez Pastur Guillermo , Aravena Acuña Marie-Claire , Chaves Jimena E. , Cellini Juan M. , Silveira Eduarda M. O. , Rodriguez-Souilla Julián , von Müller Axel , La Manna Ludmila , Lencinas María V. , Peri Pablo L.
Published: April 2023

Soil nitrogen (SN) and soil phosphorus (SP) contents support several ecosystem services and define the forest type distribution at local scale in Southern Patagonia. The quantification of nutrients during forest surveys requires soil samplings and estimations that are costly and difficult to measure. For this, predictive models of soil nutrients are needed. The objective of this study was to quantify SN and SP contents (30 cm depth) using different modelling approaches based on climatic, topographic and vegetation variables. We used data from 728 stands of different forest types for linear regression models to map SN and SP. The fitted models captured the variability of forest types well (R²-adj. 92–98% for SN and 70–87% for SP). The means were 9.3 ton ha−1 for SN and 124.3 kg ha−1 for SP. Overall, SN values were higher in the deciduous forests than those in the mixed evergreen, while SP was the highest in the Nothofagus pumilio forests. SN and SP are relevant metrics for many applications, connecting major issues, such as forest management and conservation. With these models, the quantification of SN and SP stocks across forests of different protection status (National Law 26,331/07) and national/provincial reserve networks is possible, contributing to the determination of nutrient contents at landscape level.
Fuller, Dworkin, Scientism, and Liberty: The Dichotomy between Continental and Common Law Traditions and Their Consequences
Authors: Nedzel Nadia Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Dworkin’s and other analytic/positivist philosophers’ theoretical approach to law leads inexorably to politicization, totalitarianism, less justice, less trust in government, and less truth. A more practical approach is Fuller’s, which is based on experience of human behavior and an analysis of what has worked in the past. That is also the approach traditionally used in the common law system. This article uses a comparative study of the two Western traditions, their history, and their most prominent legal philosophers to explicate how and why Dworkin’s and Fuller’s approaches are consistent and inconsistent with those traditions, followed by a comparative analysis of the results obtained by prominent international NGOs. Dworkin’s approach, which grows out of analytic philosophy, is unworkable because like all scientistic theories, it treats human beings mechanistically, de-emphasizing personal responsibility, ignoring the need for individual incentive, and it assumes an all-encompassing, all-powerful government of experts to make legal decisions for a collectivity. Under Fuller’s common law approach, the proper role of law is to manage conflict, as it cannot be prevented and cannot always be resolved, thus building the public’s trust in government as unbiased and apolitical as possible. This concept of the rule of law places law above government, minimizes politicization, incentivizes personal responsibility, individual incentive, and entrepreneurship, and is the only true common good among men.
Molecular Prevalence and Genetic Diversity Based on Msp1a Gene of Anaplasma ovis in Goats from Türkiye
Authors: Ulucesme Mehmet Can , Ozubek Sezayi , Aktas Munir
Published: April 2023

Anaplasma ovis is a tick-borne obligated intraerythrocytic bacterium that infects domestic sheep, goats, and wild ruminants. Recently, several studies have been carried out using 16S rRNA and msp4 genes to identify the genetic diversity of A. ovis. Instead of these genes, which are known to be highly stable among heterologous strains, Msp1a, which is accepted as a stable molecular marker to classify A. marginale strains, was used in A. ovis genetic diversity studies. The genetic diversity of A. ovis strains according to the Msp1a gene has not been extensively reported. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the genetic diversity of A. ovis in goats specifically using analysis of the Msp1a gene. Blood samples were taken from the vena jugularis to the EDTA tubes from 293 randomly selected goats (apparently healthy) in the Antalya and Mersin provinces of Mediterranean region of Türkiye. The Msp1a gene of A. ovis was amplified in all DNA samples through the use of PCR, using a specific set of primers named AoMsp1aF and AoMsp1aR. Among the amplified products, well-defined bands with different band sizes were subjected to sequence analysis. The obtained sequence data were converted into amino acid sequences using an online bioinformatics program and the tandem regions were examined. The Msp1a gene of A. ovis was amplified in 46.1% (135 out of 293) of the goats. Through tandem analysis, five distinct tandems (Ao8, Ao18, Tr15-16-17) were identified, and it was found that three of these tandems (Tr15-16-17) were previously unknown and were therefore defined as new tandems. The study also involved examination of ticks from goats. It was observed that the goats in the area were infested with several tick species, including Rhipicephalus bursa (888/1091, 81.4%), R. turanicus (96/1091, 8.8%), Dermacentor raskemensis (92/1091, 8.4%), Hyalomma marginatum (9/1091, 0.8%), and R. sanguineus s.l. (6/1091, 0.5%). This study provides important data for understanding the genetic diversity and evolution of A. ovis based on tandem repeats in the Msp1a protein.
High Cycle Fatigue Behaviour of 316L Stainless Steel Produced via Selective Laser Melting Method and Post Processed by Hot Rotary Swaging
Authors: Opěla Petr , Benč Marek , Kolomy Stepan , Jakůbek Zdeněk , Beranová Denisa
Published: April 2023

This paper deals with a study of additively manufactured (by the Selective Laser Melting, SLM, method) and conventionally produced AISI 316L stainless steel and their comparison. With the intention to enhance the performance of the workpieces, each material was post-processed via hot rotary swaging under a temperature of 900 °C. The samples of each particular material were analysed regarding porosity, microhardness, high cycle fatigue, and microstructure. The obtained data has shown a significant reduction in the residual porosity and the microhardness increase to 310 HV in the sample after the hot rotary swaging. Based on the acquired data, the sample produced via SLM and post-processed by hot rotary swaging featured higher fatigue resistance compared to conventionally produced samples where the stress was set to 540 MPa. The structure of the printed samples changed from the characteristic melting pools to a structure with a lower average grain size accompanied by a decrease of a high fraction of high-angle grain boundaries and higher geometrically necessary dislocation density. Specifically, the grain size decreased from the average diameters of more than 20 µm to 3.9 µm and 4.1 µm for the SLM and conventionally prepared samples, respectively. In addition, the presented research has brought in the material constants of the Hensel-Spittel formula adapted to predict the hot flow stress evolution of the studied steel with respect to its 3D printed state.
Coupling Characteristics of Powder and Laser of Coaxial Cone Nozzle for Laser Direct Metal Deposition: Numerical Simulation and Experimental Study
Authors: Wang Zhenhao , Hu Kaihua , Yang Lin , Zhang Jian , Ding Honghui , Pan Zelong
Published: April 2023

Laser direct metal deposition (LDMD) enables not only the preparation of high-performance coatings on the surfaces of low-property materials but also the three-dimensional direct manufacturing and re-manufacturing of parts. In the LDMD process, the spatial coupling characteristics of the powder flow and the laser beam are the key factors affecting the forming quality of the cladding layer. Based on the gas–solid two-phase flow theory, a numerical model of coaxial powder feeding was established by CFD. The powder flow characteristics of the lower part of the nozzle, the powder particle motion trajectory, and the optical-powder spatial coupling morphology and law were studied, and the relationship between the powder flow morphology, laser beam, and powder utilization was explored. On this basis, the law between the optical-powder coupling characteristics and the geometric characteristics of the cladding layer is discussed in conjunction with LDMD experiments. The results show that the powder concentration scalar located in the focal plane of the laser beam can be used to visualize the optical-powder coupling morphology. When the powder feeding speed exceeds the loading capacity of the carrier gas flow, the powder concentration in the center of the spot and the powder utilization rate decrease. When the carrier gas flow rate is 4.0 L/min and the powder feeding rate is 4.0 g/min, the best utilization rate achieved is 81.4%. In addition, the H (height) of the cladding layer is more sensitive to changes in the powder concentration than the W (width). These findings provide new ideas for nozzle structure design and the optimization of LDMD parameters.
Investigation into the Dynamic Stability of Nanobeams by Using the Levinson Beam Model
Authors: Huang Youqin , Huang Richeng , Huang Yonghui
Published: April 2023

Dynamic stability is an important mechanical behavior of nanobeams, which has been studied extensively using the Euler–Bernoulli and Timoshenko beam theories, while the Levinson-beam-theory-based dynamic instability analysis of nanobeams has not been investigated yet. Shear deformation is not or is not suitably considered in the Euler–Bernoulli and Timoshenko theories, so it is very important to introduce the Levinson beam theory in the dynamic stability analysis of nanobeams, which correctly models the combined action of bending and shear in nanobeams with smaller length/height ratios. In this work, the equation of the transverse vibration of a Levinson beam embedded in an elastic foundation is firstly formulated based on the displacement field of Levinson beam theory, and the nonlocal theory is further applied to the Levinson nanobeam. Then, the governing equation of the dynamic stability of the Levinson nanobeam is derived using Bolotin’s method to achieve a generalized eigenvalue problem corresponding to the boundaries of regions of dynamic instability. The principal instability region (PIR) is the most important among all regions, so the boundary of the PIR is focused on in this work to investigate the dynamic stability of the Levinson nanobeam. When the width, length/height ratio, density, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, size scale parameter, and medium stiffness increase by about 1.5 times, the width of the PIR changes by about 19%, −57%, −20%, 65%, 0, −9%, and −11%, respectively. If a smaller critical excitation frequency and narrower width of the PIR correspond to the better performance of dynamic stability, the study shows that the dynamic stability of the Levinson nanobeam embedded in an elastic medium improves under a larger length and density and a smaller width, height, and Young’s modulus, since these factors are related to the natural frequency of the nanobeam which controls the width of the PIR. Additionally, the local model would overestimate the dynamic stability behavior of the Levinson nanobeam.
Characterization of Volcano-Sedimentary Rocks and Related Scraps for Design of Sustainable Materials
Authors: Barbieri Luisa , Altimari Fabiana , Andreola Fernanda , Maggi Bruno , Lancellotti Isabella
Published: April 2023

This work started as a joint academia and company research project with the aim of finding new applications for domestically sourced volcanic products and related waste (pumice, lapillus, zeolitic tuff and volcanic debris from Tessennano and Arlena quarry) by creating a database of secondary volcanic raw materials and their intrinsic characteristics to help industry replace virgin materials and enhance circularity. In this context, accurate chemical, mineralogical, morphological, granulometric and thermal characterizations were performed. Based on the results presented, it can be concluded that due to their lightness, these materials can be used in the design and preparation of lightweight aggregates for agronomic purposes or in the construction field. Furthermore, due to their aluminosilicate nature and amorphous fraction, pumice and lapillus can play the role of precursor or activator for geopolymer preparation. With its porous nature, zeolitic tuff can be exploited for flue gas treatment. Due to the presence of feldspathic phase (sanidine), these materials can be used in tile production as a fluxing component, and with their pozzolanic activity and calcium content, they have application in the binder field as supplementary cementitious material or as aggregates.
From Electronic Waste to 3D-Printed Product, How Multiple Recycling Affects High-Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) Filament Performances
Authors: Hanitio Edbert Wing , Lutfhyansyah Novan Rifky , Efendi Balqis Mentari , Mardiyati Yati , Steven Steven
Published: April 2023

The rapid growth of the electronics industry is producing excessive electronic waste. One of the common types of materials in electronic waste is high-impact polystyrene (HIPS). In this study, HIPS from electronic waste was recycled through an extrusion process and used as a 3D print filament. The effects of recycling on printability, physical properties, and mechanical properties in horizontal and vertical directions were examined. It was found that until the fourth-cycle, mechanical properties such as horizontal tensile strength, horizontal flexural strength, vertical flexural strength, and vertical impact strength were comparable with virgin commercial filament. In addition, the vertical flexural modulus in the fourth cycle increased by 77.28%. However, the density of recycled HIPs’ first to the fourth cycle slightly decreased by 10.6%, and the melt flow rate increased by 20.3%. It was also observed that until the third cycle, the effect of the reprocessing steps was insignificant on the defect of the 3D-printed product. In general, the experiments show various results, mainly in mechanical properties. Nevertheless, recycled HIPS filaments are comparable to or better than commercial ones in some cases. As a result, recycled HIPS filaments hold the potential to be considered as an alternative to other types of 3D print filaments.
MHD Hybrid Nanofluid Flow over a Stretching/Shrinking Sheet with Skin Friction: Effects of Radiation and Mass Transpiration
Authors: Vishalakshi Angadi Basettappa , Mahesh Rudraiah , Mahabaleshwar Ulavathi Shettar , Rao Alaka Krishna , Pérez Laura M. , Laroze David
Published: April 2023

The study of inclined magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) mixed convective incompressible flow of a fluid with hybrid nanoparticles containing a colloidal combination of nanofluids and base fluid is presented in the current research. Al2O3-Cu/H2O hybrid nanofluid is utilized in the current analysis to enhance the heat transfer analysis. The impact of radiation is also placed at energy equation. The main research methodology includes that the problem provided equations are first transformed into non-dimensional form, and then they are obtained in ordinary differential equations (ODEs) form. Then using the solutions of momentum and transfers equations to solve the given ODEs to get the root of the equation. The main purpose includes the resulting equations are then analytically resolved with the aid of suitable boundary conditions. The results can be discussed with various physical parameters viz., stretched/shrinked-Rayleigh number, stretching/shrinking parameter, Prandtl number, etc. Besides, skin friction and heat transfer coefficient can be examined with suitable similarity transformations. The main significance of the present work is to explain the mixed convective fluid flow on the basis of analytical method. Main findings at the end we found that the transverse and tangential velocities are more for more values of stretched/shrinked-Rayleigh number and mass transpiration for both suction and injection cases. This is the special method it includes stretched/shrinked-Rayleigh number, it contributes major role in this analysis. The purpose of finding the present work is to understand the analytical solution on the basis of mixed convective method.
Research on Distribution Optimization of Emergency Perishable Materials Considering Periodic Changes in Freshness
Authors: Zhang Zichun , Xu Yang , Li Xiaodong , Lai Kin-Keung , Li Yan
Published: April 2023

The distribution of emergency perishable materials is crucial for rescue operations in disaster-stricken areas. However, the freshness of these materials changes over time, affecting the quantity of materials that can be distributed to demand points at different stages. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel approach. Firstly, a piecewise function is constructed to describe the impact of freshness on the quality and quantity of emergency perishable materials at different time stages. Secondly, the paper establishes a vehicle distribution optimization model with the goal of maximizing the sum of the freshness of all emergency perishable materials delivered to different disaster-affected locations, taking into account the different minimum freshness constraints for the same kind of materials in different locations. Thirdly, an approximate algorithm is designed to solve the model, with the time complexity and the upper and lower bounds of the approximate ratio analyzed. Finally, an example analysis is conducted to demonstrate the validity of the proposed model and algorithm.
Spectral Collocation Technique for Solving Two-Dimensional Multi-Term Time Fractional Viscoelastic Non-Newtonian Fluid Model
Authors: Al-Shomrani Mohammed M. , Abdelkawy Mohamed A. , Lopes António M.
Published: April 2023

Applications of non-Newtonian fluids have been widespread across industries, accompanied by theoretical developments in engineering and mathematics. This paper studies a two-dimensional multi-term time fractional viscoelastic non-Newtonian fluid model by using two autonomous consecutive spectral collocation strategies. A modification of the spectral approach is implemented, leading to an algebraic system of equations able to obtain an approximate symmetric solution for the model. Numerical examples illustrate the effectiveness of the technique in terms of accuracy and convergence.
An Enhanced Multi-Objective Optimizer for Stochastic Generation Optimization in Islanded Renewable Energy Microgrids
Authors: Lakhina Upasana , Badruddin Nasreen , Elamvazuthi Irraivan , Jangra Ajay , Huy Truong Hoang Bao , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: April 2023

A microgrid is an autonomous electrical system that consists of renewable energy and efficiently achieves power balance in a network. The complexity in the distribution network arises due to the intermittent nature of renewable generation units and varying power. One of the important objectives of a microgrid is to perform energy management based on situational awareness and solve an optimization problem. This paper proposes an enhanced multi-objective multi-verse optimizer algorithm (MOMVO) for stochastic generation power optimization in a renewable energy-based islanded microgrid framework. The proposed algorithm is utilized for optimum power scheduling among various available generation sources to minimize the microgrid’s generation costs and power losses. The performance of MOMVO is assessed on a 6-unit and 10-unit test system. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms other metaheuristic algorithms for multi-objective optimization.
Optimized Non-Integer Load Frequency Control Scheme for Interconnected Microgrids in Remote Areas with High Renewable Energy and Electric Vehicle Penetrations
Authors: Aly Mokhtar , Mohamed Emad A. , Noman Abdullah M. , Ahmed Emad M. , El-Sousy Fayez F. M. , Watanabe Masayuki
Published: April 2023

Renewable energy systems (RESs) have introduced themselves as vital solutions for energy supply in remote regions, wherein main utility supply systems are not available. The construction of microgrid (MG) systems is useful candidate for proper control and management with hybrid RESs. However, RESs-based MGs face reduced power system inertia due to the dependency of RESs on power electronic converter systems. Accordingly, preserving nominal operating frequency and reduced deviations in tie-line power are crucial elements for proper operation of interconnected MGs in remote areas. To overcome this problem, load frequency control (LFC) systems have proven featured solutions. Therefore, this paper proposes a new non-integer LFC method based on the fractional order (FO) control theory for LFC in interconnected MGs in remote areas. The proposed control is based on the three degree of freedom (3DoF) cascaded 1+proportional-integral-derivative-accelerated (PIDA) controller with FOPI controller, namely 3DoF 1+PIDA/FOPI LFC scheme. The proposed 3DoF 1+PIDA/FOPItakes the advantages of the accelerated term of PIDA control to improve power system transients, regarding maximum overshoot/undershoot and settling times. Additionally, it employs outer loop to reduce errors and faster inner loop to mitigate disturbances effects. The contribution of plug-in controlled electric vehicles (EVs) are considered to enhance the frequency regulation functions. An optimized design of the proposed 3DoF 1+PIDA/FOPI LFC scheme is proposed using the newly developed hybrid equilibrium optimizer (EO)-slime mould optimization (SMA) algorithm (namely EOSMA optimizer). The EOSMA combines the features of the EO and SMA powerful optimization algorithms. A two interconnected MGs in remote areas with RESs and EVs inclusions with high penetration levels is selected to verify the proposed 3DoF 1+PIDA/FOPI LFC scheme and the EOSMA optimizer. The results show high ability of the proposed controller and design scheme to minimize MGs’ frequency and tie-line power fluctuations and to preserve frequency stability and security.
A Planar-3D Mathematical Model for Studying the Effect of Heterogeneity of Rock Fracture Toughness on Hydraulic Fracture Propagation: Early-Time Solution including the Stage before Propagation
Authors: Li Kairui , Smirnov Nickolay N. , Qi Chengzhi , Wang Mingyang , Pestov Dmitry A. , Shamina Anastasia A.
Published: April 2023

Among the studies of the effect of rock’s heterogeneity on hydraulic fracture propagation, very little information on the effects of the heterogeneity of rock’s fracture toughness is available. The objective of the present paper is to develop a planar-3D model for studying the effect of the heterogeneity of rock’s fracture toughness on hydraulic fracture propagation. Not only the stage of fracture propagation, but also the stage before the fracture propagation is considered in this model. Based on the proposed model, the evolution of hydraulic fracture propagation under a typical heterogeneous distribution of rock’s fracture toughness and the solution at the stage before fracture propagation are analyzed in detail. Furthermore, a series of numerical comparison experiments including five different distributions of rock’s fracture toughness are made in order to study the effect of the heterogeneity of rock’s toughness. The results indicate that the minimum fracture radius and the contrast of rock’s fracture toughness between adjacent layers are important parameters for determining the size and location of the maximum fracture opening. Most importantly, the fracture contour is greatly affected by the heterogeneity of rock’s fracture toughness.
On Propeties of the LIP Model in the Class of RCPSPs
Authors: Kibzun Andrey I. , Rasskazova Varvara A.
Published: April 2023

The Resource-Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (RCPSP) is a significant and important issue in the field of project management. It arises during project planning when resources must be allocated among tasks with specific time constraints. Solving this problem enables the optimization of project execution time, minimization of resource costs, and increased efficiency of the entire team’s work. Due to the increasing complexity of projects, the development of new methods and algorithms to solve RCPSP is relevant nowadays. The existing methods for obtaining approximate solutions with guaranteed accuracy are characterized by high computational complexity and are often ineffective in considering the specific constraints of the problem. Fast heuristic approaches also have several drawbacks related to fine-tuning algorithm parameters and strong dependence on the quality of the initial solution. This paper investigates the features of the linear integer programming (LIP) model to solve RCPSP. The proposed LIP model is universal and scalable, enabling it to fully consider all specific aspects of the problem. The paper provides a construction algorithm of a functional space of the model and discusses the estimation of complexity. From the estimation of the mentioned algorithm’s complexity, it is observed that the general complexity of the proposed approach is proportional to a controlled parameter of the LIP. Increasing this controlled parameter can significantly reduce the dimensionality of the initial problem, thus leading to the effectiveness of the LIP model-based approach in terms of computational resources. An upper bound for the value of this parameter is obtained for a special case of the RCPSP. Using the obtained balanced value, a numerical experiment was carried out on real-world samples.
A Novel Fixed-Time Convergence Guidance Law against Maneuvering Targets
Authors: Long Yaosong , Ou Chao , Shan Chengjun , Cheng Zhongtao
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a new fixed-time convergence guidance law is proposed against maneuvering targets in the three-dimensional (3-D) engagement scenario. The fixed-time stability theory is used to zero the line-of-sight (LOS) angle rate, which will ensure the collision course and the impact of the target. It is proven that the convergence of the LOS angle rate can be achieved before the final impact time of the guidance process, regardless of the initial conditions. Furthermore, the convergence rate is merely related to control parameters. In theoretical analysis, the convergence rate and upper bound are compared with that of other laws to show the potential advantages of the proposed guidance law. Finally, simulations are carried out to illustrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed guidance law.
Autonomous Multi-UAV Path Planning in Pipe Inspection Missions Based on Booby Behavior
Authors: Aljalaud Faten , Kurdi Heba , Youcef-Toumi Kamal
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a novel path planning heuristic for multi-UAV pipe inspection missions inspired by the booby bird’s foraging behavior. The heuristic enables each UAV to find an optimal path that minimizes the detection time of defects in pipe networks while avoiding collisions with obstacles and other UAVs. The proposed method is compared with four existing path planning algorithms adapted for multi-UAV scenarios: ant colony optimization (ACO), particle swarm optimization (PSO), opportunistic coordination, and random schemes. The results show that the booby heuristic outperforms the other algorithms in terms of mean detection time and computational efficiency under different settings of defect complexity and number of UAVs.
Quantum Theory of Scattering of Nonclassical Fields by Free Electrons
Authors: Makarov Dmitry
Published: April 2023

At present, there is no non-perturbative theory of scattering of nonclassical electromagnetic waves by free electrons that describes the scattering process completely with the help of quantum physics. In this paper, such a theory is presented, which takes into account the statistics and the number of scattered photons. This theory is completely analytical for an arbitrary number of electrons in the system and, in a particular case, is equivalent to the previous theory of scattering as the number of incident photons tends to infinity. It is shown that this theory can differ greatly from the previously known theory of Thomson scattering in the non-perturbative case and at relatively small numbers of incident photons. In addition, this theory is applicable to the scattering of ultrashort pulses by free electrons.
Injectable Resin Technique as a Restorative Alternative in a Cleft Lip and Palate Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Villafuerte Kelly R. V. , Obeid Alyssa Teixeira , de Oliveira Naiara Araújo
Published: April 2023

Objective: The objective of this study is to present a case report in which the injectable composite resin technique was used as a restorative alternative for dental re-anatomization in a patient with cleft lip and palate and aesthetic complaints. Materials and Methods: The treatment plan included the re-anatomization of the maxillary premolars and canines using a flowable composite resin. This resin was injected and cured through a transparent matrix, which was a copy of the diagnostic wax-up model. Some parameters such as application time and marginal adaptation were also observed when performing the restorations. Additionally, old composite resin restorations on the upper lateral incisors were replaced using the incremental technique with conventional resins, which helped to assess color stability and fracture/wear deterioration for both restorative techniques. Results: The clinical case report shows that the injectable technique was a simple and quick method for restoring the anatomy of teeth (shape and contour) in one session, since the injectable resin can be easily applied in interproximal areas without the need to manually sculpt the resin. In this case, no clinical, visual, or photographic differences were found in marginal discoloration, color stability, and fracture/wear deterioration for the two restorative techniques after one year of follow-up. Conclusions: The professional may have another clinical option for restorative treatment in the case of small re-anatomizations. In addition, the injectable technique seems to require less operator skill and chair time and better marginal adaptation in cases of small anatomical changes.
Assessment of the Particularities of Thrombophilia in the Management of Pregnant Women in the Western Part of Romania
Authors: Samfireag Miruna , Potre Cristina , Potre Ovidiu , Moleriu Lavinia-Cristina , Petre Izabella , Borsi Ema , Hoinoiu Teodora , Preda Marius , Popoiu Tudor-Alexandru , Anghel Andrei
Published: April 2023

Background and objectives: Thrombophilia in pregnant women is a condition whose incidence is constantly increasing worldwide, and, under these conditions, the development of preventive procedures is becoming essential. In this study, we aimed to evaluate thrombophilia in pregnant women in the western part of Romania and to establish anthropometric characteristics, socioeconomic features, and genetic and risk factors. Material and Methods: 178 pregnant women were divided into three study groups, according to the type of thrombophilia, aiming to carry out the genetic profile and the acquired one. Anthropometric measures and biological tests were performed. Results: The mixed type of thrombophilia predominates. The particularities of pregnant women diagnosed with thrombophilia are higher age, living in an urban environment, with normal BMI, approximately 36 weeks of gestational period, and having at least one miscarriage. Regarding the most frequent thrombophilic genetic markers, we obtained the MTFHR gene mutation C677T and A1298C, followed by the PAI-1 4G/5G gene mutation. Smoking represents an aggravating factor in the evolution of this pathology, manifested through the increase of D-dimers and the decrease in antithrombin values, simultaneously with the increase in therapeutic need. Conclusions: The predominance of MTHFR and PAI-1 4G/5G gene polymorphism is a particularity of pregnant women with thrombophilia from the western part of Romania. Smoking is confirmed as an important risk factor in spontaneous abortion.
Association of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines with Vitamin D in Hashimoto’s Thyroid Autoimmune Disease
Authors: Siddiq Amer , Naveed Abdul Khaliq , Ghaffar Nabila , Aamir Muhammad , Ahmed Naveed
Published: April 2023

Background and objectives: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an important autoimmune thyroid condition. It is characterized by lymphocytic congestion of the thyroid gland followed by progressive deterioration and fibrous substitution of the thyroid in the parenchymal structure. This study has provided insight into the variations of blood pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in patients with Hashimoto’s disease and the key role of vitamin D levels among selected patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 144 participants including healthy controls and patients were studied in the current study in which 118 were female and 26 were male. The thyroid profile was evaluated in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and healthy controls. Results: The mean ± SD Free T4 in the patients was recorded as 14.0 ± 4.9 pg/mL, and TSH was 7.6 ± 2.5 IU/L, whereas the median ± IQR thyroglobulin antibodies (anti-TG) were 285 ± 142. Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO) were 160 ± 63.5, whereas in the healthy controls, the mean ± SD Free T4 was recorded as 17.2 ± 2.1 pg/mL, and TSH was 2.1 ± 1.4 IU/L, whereas the median ± IQR anti-TGs were 56.30 ± 46.06, and anti-TPO was 5.6 ± 5.12. The assessment of pro-inflammatory cytokines (pg/mL) and total Vitamin D levels (nmol/L) in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis was recorded with values IL-1B 6.2 ± 0.8, IL-6 9.4 ± 0.4, IL-8 7.5 ± 0.5, IL-10 4.3 ± 0.1, IL-12 3.8 ± 0.5, TNF-α 7.6 ± 1.1, and total vitamin D 21.89 ± 3.5, whereas in healthy controls the mean ± SD IL-1B was 0.6 ± 0.1, IL-6 2.6 ± 0.5, IL-8 3.0 ± 1.2, IL-10 3.3 ± 1.3, IL-12 3.4 ± 0.4, TNF-α 1.4 ± 0.3 and total vitamin D was 42.26 ± 5.5. Conclusions: It was found that individuals with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis had raised serum levels of IL-1B, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, and TNF-α as compared to the healthy controls, whereas the total vitamin D levels were remarkably low as compared to health controls. Serum TSH, anti-TG, and anti-TPO levels were typically lower in controls and much higher in individuals with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The current study’s findings might aid in future studies and in the diagnosis and management of autoimmune thyroid disease.
Combined Free Flaps for Optimal Orthoplastic Lower Limb Reconstruction: A Retrospective Series
Authors: di Summa Pietro G. , Sapino Gianluca , Wagner Daniel , Maruccia Michele , Guillier David , Burger Heinz
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Open fracture of the lower limb can lead to substantial bone and soft tissue damage, resulting in a challenging reconstructive scenarios, especially in presence of bone or periosteal loss, with a relevant risk of non-union. This work analyzes outcomes of using a double approach for orthoplastic reconstruction, adopting the free medial condyle flap to solve the bone defects, associated to a second free flap for specific soft tissue coverage. Indications, outcomes and reconstructive rationales are discussed. Materials and Methods: A retrospective investigation was performed on patients who underwent complex two-flap microsurgical reconstruction from January 2018 to January 2022. Inclusion criteria in this study were the use of a free femoral condyle periostal/bone flap together with a second skin-only flap. Only distal third lower limb reconstructions were included in order to help equalize our findings. Out of the total number of patients, only patients with complete pre- and post-operative follow-up (minimum 6 months) data were included in the study. Results: Seven patients were included in the study, with a total of 14 free flaps. The average age was 49. Among comorbidities, four patients were smokers and none suffered from diabetes. Etiology of the defect was acute trauma in four cases and septic non-union in three cases. No major complications occurred, and all flaps healed uneventfully with complete bone union. Conclusions: Combining a bone periosteal FMC to a second skin free flap for tailored defect coverage allowed achievement of bone union in all patients, despite the lack of initial bone vascularization or chronic infection. FMC is confirmed to be a versatile flap for small-to-medium bone defects, especially considering its use as a periosteal-only flap, with minimal donor site morbidity. Choosing a second flap for coverage allows for a higher inset freedom and tailored reconstruction, finally enhancing orthoplastic success.
Impact of Ti Doping on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of CoCrFeMoNi High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Brito-Garcia Santiago Jose , Mirza-Rosca Julia Claudia , Jimenez-Marcos Cristina , Voiculescu Ionelia
Published: April 2023

The design principle of high-entropy alloys is to mix many chemical elements in equal or nearly equal proportions to create new alloys with unique and special properties such as high strength, ductility and corrosion resistance. Some properties of high-entropy alloys can be adjusted via introducing new doping elements, which are selected according to working conditions. The high-entropy alloy CoCrFeMoNi was examined to determine the impact of Ti doping on its micro-structure, microhardness and elastic modulus. Microstructure analysis revealed a core structure consisting of both face-centered cubic (FCC) and body-centered cubic (BCC) phases, along with the formation of a Laves phase. The addition of Ti made the alloy grains finer and reduced the Mo concentration difference between the interdendritic and dendritic regions. As a result of Ti doping, the microhardness of the alloy increased from 369 HV 0.2 to 451 HV 0.2. Ti doping produced a doubling of the breaking strength value, although no significant changes were observed in the elastic modulus of the CoCrFeMoNi alloy.
Combining 3D Printing and Electrochemical Deposition for Manufacturing Tailor-Made 3D Nickel Foams with Highly Competitive Porosity and Specific Surface Area Density
Authors: Arnet Robin , Kesten Oliver , El Mofid Wassima , Sörgel Timo
Published: April 2023

One of the most promising and heavily researched energy storage systems due to their high energy density, rate capability and extended cycle life are lithium-ion batteries. Their performance and efficiency are nonetheless strongly dependent on their constituent materials and design, including the current collectors. One attractive approach in this respect is the use of metal foams as an alternative to the conventional current collectors. This concept is therefore intended to increase the current collectors’ specific surface area and therefore load more active material by nominal area while keeping the cell architectures simple and less costly. In the present work, nickel is chosen as a model system for a proof of concept of a novel manufacturing method for nickel foams using a combination of 3D printing, coating and electroplating. The purpose is to create geometrically well-defined hollow structures with high porosity and specific surface area density that can rival and partially outperform the commercially available nickel foams. To this end, a 3D printer is used to create geometrically flexible and well-defined open-pored disks of HIPS (high-impact polystyrene), which are then spray coated with a graphite-based conducting layer and subsequently electroplated with a 5–30 µm thin layer of nickel from an additive-free nickel sulfamate electrolyte. Following the coating process, the support structure is dissolved with toluene, resulting in structures with a unique combination of porosity in the range of 92.3–99.1% and an ultra-high specific surface area density up to 46 m2/kg. Morphological characterization by light and scanning electron microscopy has proven that the temporarily required polymer substrate can be mildly and completely removed by the suggested room temperature dissolution process.
Light Source Modules for Defect Detection on Highly Reflective Metallic Surfaces
Authors: Huang Lih-Ping , Hsu Quang-Cherng , Liu Bao-Hsing , Lin Chin-Fu , Chen Chien-Hsianh
Published: April 2023

High strength and highly reflective metal sheets are widely applied in industry; industrial requirements for defect detection are extremely demanding, particularly in the aviation and automotive industries. Classifying and recognizing surface defects on steel plate surfaces is highly challenging. Currently, defect detection is still inspected visually by personnel. However, given the high temperatures at inspection sites and the high risks in the operating environments, machine vision inspection systems are expected to replace manual inspection processes eventually. Therefore, this study developed an automated defect detection system that reduces the high reflectivity of examined objects. The light sources emitted light rays to the rays diffused and reflected multiple times inside the hemispherical cover to produce uniform illumination. Subsequently, image processing was conducted to highlight defect features on the stainless-steel plates. Relatively favorable light source positions were identified, which reduced the difficulty of class identification, the omission rate in defect detection to be decreased, and frequently encountered reflection problems in the automated optical inspection of metallic products to be overcome.
Ways of Long-Term Survival of Hydrocarbon-Oxidizing Bacteria in a New Biocomposite Material—Silanol-Humate Gel
Authors: Nikolaev Yury A. , Demkina Elena V. , Ilicheva Ekaterina A. , Kanapatskiy Timur A. , Borzenkov Igor A. , Ivanova Anna E. , Tikhonova Ekaterina N. , Sokolova Diyana S. , Ruzhitsky Alexander O. , El-Registan Galina I.
Published: April 2023

Immobilized bacterial cells are presently widely used in the development of bacterial preparations for the bioremediation of contaminated environmental objects. Oil hydrocarbons are among the most abundant pollutants. We have previously described a new biocomposite material containing hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria (HOB) embedded in silanol-humate gels (SHG) based on humates and aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES); high viable cell titer was maintained in this material for at least 12 months. The goal of the work was to describe the ways of long-term HOB survival in SHG and the relevant morphotypes using the techniques of microbiology, instrumental analytical chemistry and biochemistry, and electron microscopy. Bacteria surviving in SHG were characterized by: (1) capacity for rapid reactivation (growth and hydrocarbon oxidation) in fresh medium; (2) ability to synthesize surface-active compounds, which was not observed in the cultures stored without SHG); (3) elevated stress resistance (ability to grow at high Cu2+ and NaCl concentrations); (4) physiological heterogeneity of the populations, which contained the stationary hypometabolic cells, cystlike anabiotic dormant forms (DF), and ultrasmall cells; (5) occurrence of piles in many cells, which were probably used to exchange genetic material; (6) modification of the phase variants spectrum in the population growing after long-term storage in SHG; and (7) oxidation of ethanol and acetate by HOB populations stored in SHG. The combination of the physiological and cytomorphological properties of the cells surviving in SHG for long periods may indicate a new type of long-term bacterial survival, i.e., in a hypometabolic state.