bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A P/X Dual-Band Co-Aperture Array with Dual-Polarized Antenna Based on Forest Biomass Measurement Applications
Authors: Sun Fukun , Wu Xian , Luan Yuchen , Wang Duo
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a co-aperture dual-polarized antenna array is proposed. The frequency band covers the P-band (0.4–0.7 GHz) and the X-band (9.3–9.9 GHz). The P-band array is designed in the form of an all-metal Vivaldi, while minimizing the impact of the P-band antenna array structure on the X-band electrical performance. The final profile design for the dual-band antenna structure is only 0.12 λ0 (λ0 corresponds to the wavelength of 0.4 GHz). The X-band design adopts the miniaturized waveguide slot structure, which can be well embedded in the P-band array structure. In order to verify the feasibility of the scheme, prototype processing and testing were carried out, and the test results are consistent with the simulation results. The active VSWRs of the overall design are less than 2.0. Additionally, the dual-band antenna array has favorable radiation performance in each frequency band. It can be used in forest biomass measurements and other interferometric applications.
Plasmon—Assisted Resonance Energy Transfer Involving Electric and Magnetic Coupling
Authors: Jin Lei , Liang Xiongyu , He Chengmao , Wang Tiejun , Liang Kun , Yu Li
Published: April 2024

We develop a quantum theory based on macroscopic quantum electrodynamics to research the resonance energy transfer (RET) between a chiral donor and acceptor. It differs from the previous Green function approach which needs specific boundary conditions to obtain an analytical solution for calculating the RET rate. Our theory can combine the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method, which gives a simple and efficient semi-analytical approach, to evaluate the chiral RET rate in an arbitrary plasmonic nanosystem. Applying our theory to the systems of chiral molecules 3-methylcyclopentanone (3MCP) near the achiral/chiral plasmonic nanostructures, the RET process, which is divided into nondiscriminatory and discriminatory parts, is investigated. We find that plasmon will enhance both nondiscriminatory and discriminatory rates compared to the absence of plasmonic nanostructure, but the plasmon supported by chiral nanostructure contributes more to the discriminatory rate. The ratio of discriminatory to nondiscriminatory rates in the system consisting of 3MCP and chiral plasmonic structure is five-fold compared to the system consisting of 3MCP and achiral plasmonic structure. The phenomena can be attributed to the chiral electric-magnetic coupling. Our findings are important in understanding the achiral and chiral electric-magnetic interaction and designing chiral light-harvesting and sensing devices.
Active Regulation of Electromagnetic Force in Wireless Power Transfer Systems
Authors: Hu Yandong , Dong Wenbo , Li Xiang , Zhang Hanxun , Men Liangzhi
Published: April 2024

To reduce the interference from the electromagnetic force caused by coupling coils due to distance changes in a wireless power transfer (WPT) system, this paper conducts a theoretical analysis of the factors influencing the electromagnetic force experienced by the receiving coil. Maxwell electromagnetic simulation is used for modeling and analysis, revealing the trends in the electromagnetic force exerted on the receiving coil. Based on this analysis, a method is proposed that actively adjusts the working frequency of WPT to alter the current phases of the transmitting and receiving coils, thereby regulating the magnitude of the force on the receiving coil. Finally, mechanical tests, including torque experiments, were conducted to validate the proposed method. The electromagnetic force on the coil in the microgravity isolation platform of a space station was reduced from 961 μN to 113 μN, a level which plays an important role in improving the microgravity index of the system.
A 1.2 V, 92 dB Dynamic-Range Delta-Sigma Modulator Based on an Output Swing-Enhanced Gain-Boost Inverter
Authors: Wu Honghao , Li Wenchang , Zhang Tianyi , Li Guanqi , Liu Jian
Published: April 2024

This article presents a third-order, feedforward, single-bit Delta-Sigma analog-to-digital modulator (DSM) based on an output swing-enhanced gain-boost inverter for low-voltage low-power applications such as wearable devices, mobile health, and the Internet of Things (IoTs). The proposed output swing-enhanced structure addresses the output-swing reduction in the conventional structure while achieving high DC gain and large output swing simultaneously. Implemented in a 180 nm CMOS process, the entire chip is comprised of a delta-sigma modulator, an oscillator, and a current reference. It achieves 86.1 dB peak SNR and 92 dB dynamic range (DR) with 1.95 kHz signal bandwidth. The whole chip dissipates 54.5 μW, leading to a 167.6 dB Schreier Figure of Merit (FoMs).
Correction: Nazir et al. An Inclination in Thermal Energy Using Nanoparticles with Casson Liquid Past an Expanding Porous Surface. Energies 2021, 14, 7328
Authors: Nazir Umar , Sohail Muhammad , Hafeez Muhammad Bilal , Krawczuk Marek , Askar Sameh , Wasif Sammar
Published: April 2024

Some phrases in the original publication were not appropriate [...]
Power System Transient Stability Preventive Control via Aptenodytes Forsteri Optimization with an Improved Transient Stability Assessment Model
Authors: Xie Zhijun , Zhang Dongxia , Hu Wei , Han Xiaoqing
Published: April 2024

Transient stability preventive control (TSPC), a method to efficiently withstand the severe contingencies in a power system, is mathematically a transient stability constrained optimal power flow (TSC-OPF) issue, attempting to maintain the economical and secure dispatch of a power system via generation rescheduling. The traditional TSC-OPF issue incorporated with differential-algebraic equations (DAE) is time consumption and difficult to solve. Therefore, this paper proposes a new TSPC method driven by a naturally inspired optimization algorithm integrated with transient stability assessment. To avoid solving complex DAE, the stacking ensemble multilayer perceptron (SEMLP) is used in this research as a transient stability assessment (TSA) model and integrated into the optimization algorithm to replace transient stability constraints. Therefore, less time is spent on challenging calculations. Simultaneously, sensitivity analysis (SA) based on this TSA model determines the adjustment direction of the controllable generators set. The results of this SA can be utilized as prior knowledge for subsequent optimization algorithms, thus further reducing the time consumption process. In addition, a naturally inspired algorithm, Aptenodytes Forsteri Optimization (AFO), is introduced to find the best operating point with a near-optimal operational cost while ensuring power system stability. The accuracy and effectiveness of the method are verified on the IEEE 39-bus system and the IEEE 300-bus system. After the implementation of the proposed TSPC method, both systems can ensure transient stability under a given contingency. The test experiment using AFO driven by SEMLP and SA on the IEEE 39-bus system is completed in about 35 s, which is one-tenth of the time required by the time domain simulation method.
Non-Intrusive Load Monitoring Based on Multiscale Attention Mechanisms
Authors: Yao Lei , Wang Jinhao , Zhao Chen
Published: April 2024

With the development of smart grids and new power systems, the combination of non-intrusive load identification technology and smart home technology can provide users with the operating conditions of home appliances and equipment, thus reducing home energy loss and improving users’ ability to demand a response. This paper proposes a non-intrusive load decomposition model with a parallel multiscale attention mechanism (PMAM). The model can extract both local and global feature information and fuse it through a parallel multiscale network. This improves the attention mechanism’s ability to capture feature information over long time periods. To validate the model’s decomposition ability, we combined the PMAM model with four benchmark models: the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) recurrent neural network model, the Time Pooling-based Load Disaggregation Model (TPNILM), the Extreme Learning Machine (ELM), and the Load Disaggregation Model without Parallel Multi-scalar Attention Mechanisms (UNPMAM). The model was trained on the publicly available UK-DALE dataset and tested. The models’ test results were quantitatively evaluated using a confusion matrix. This involved calculating the F1 score of the load decomposition. A higher F1 score indicates better model decomposition performance. The results indicate that the PMAM model proposed in this paper maintains an F1 score above 0.9 for the decomposition of three types of electrical equipment under the same household user, which is 3% higher than that of the other benchmark models on average. In the cross-household test, the PMAM also demonstrated a better decomposition ability, with the F1 score maintained above 0.85, and the mean absolute error (MAE) decreased by 5.3% on average compared with that of the UNPMAM.
Real-Time Testing Optimal Power Flow in Smart-Transformer-Based Meshed Hybrid Microgrids: Design and Validation
Authors: Núñez-Rodríguez Rafael A. , Unsihuay-Vila Clodomiro , Posada Johnny , Pinzón-Ardila Omar , Aoki Alexandre Rasi , Bueno-Otto Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

The smart transformer (ST) is a multiport and multi-stage converter that allows for the formation of meshed hybrid microgrids (MHMs) by enabling AC-DC ports in medium and low voltage. This type of microgrid has advantages over the performance of conventional hybrid AC-DC microgrids (HMGs); however, the number of degrees of freedom of the ST increases the complexity of the energy management systems (EMSs), which require adequate and accurate modeling of the power flow of the converters and the MG to find the feasible solution of optimal power flow (OPF) problems in the MHM. An ST’s equivalent power flow model is proposed for formulating the MHM OPF problem and developing low-frequency equivalent models integrated with a decoupled hierarchical control architecture under a real-time simulation approach to the ST-based MHM. A simulation model of the MHM in the Simulink® environment of Matlab® 9.12 is developed and implemented under a digital real-time simulation (DRTS) approach on the OPAL-RT® platform. This model allows for determining the accuracy of the developed equivalent models, both low-frequency and power flow, and determining the MHM performance based on optimal day-ahead scheduling. Simulation test results demonstrated the ST equivalent model’s accuracy and the MHM’s accuracy for OPF problems with an optimal day-ahead scheduling horizon based on the model-in-the-loop (MIL) and DRTS approach.
Pyrogenic Carbonaceous Materials Production of Four Tropical Wood Produced by Slow Pyrolysis at Different Temperatures: Charcoal and Biochar Properties
Authors: Moya Róger , Tenorio Carolina , Quesada-Kimzey Jaime , Másis-Meléndez Federico
Published: April 2024

Costa Rica produces a considerable, important quantity of wood residues. This waste can be pyrolyzed to produce charcoals as main products that can be effectively used as an energy source or to immobilize carbon for soil treatment. However, there is a lack of information about the pyrogenic carbonaceous materials (PCMs), such as charcoal or biochar, obtained at different pyrolysis temperatures. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the quality of PCMs (physical, mechanical, ultimate analysis, and FTIR analysis) and charcoal characteristics (energetic properties and thermogravimetric analysis—TGA) and biochar characteristics (conductivity, pH, initial contact angle, and wetting rates) for four tropical wood residues produced in five temperatures (300 °C, 350 °C, 400 °C, 450 °C, and 500 °C). In general, pyrolysis temperature between 450 °C and 500 °C produced charcoals with lower values of density, moisture content, compression strength, volatiles, H and O content, and higher values of C and ash contents, conductivity, pH, initial contact angle, and wetting rates. FTIR and TGA analyses show that celluloses and lignin are pyrolyzed at these temperatures, so these temperatures are recommended. The range of 300–350 °C is not recommended, as these parameters were inverse. Multivariate analysis shows that (i) PCMs obtained at lower temperatures (300–350 °C) from Dipteryx panamensis, Hieronyma alchorneoides, and Tectona grandis belong to a cluster with poorer properties, indicating that these temperatures are not adequate for pyrolysis of these species; (ii) all the PCMs obtained from Gmelina arborea were grouped into one cluster, suggesting different PCM quality; and (iii) the PCMs produced from D. panamensis, H. alchorneoides, and T. grandis at 400–500 °C were grouped into another cluster with better properties, suggesting this pyrolysis temperature range as the best for these species.
Anthropogenic Microparticles Abundance in Sandy Beach Sediments along the Tetouan Coast (Morocco Mediterranean)
Authors: Bouzekry Assia , Mghili Bilal , Mancuso Monique , Bouadil Oumayma , Bottari Teresa , Aksissou Mustapha
Published: April 2024

Despite the widespread presence of anthropogenic microparticles (AMs) in beach sediments, research on their occurrence on Moroccan Mediterranean beaches is still limited. This study is the first report on AM pollution in four sandy beaches along the Tetouan coast (Morocco Mediterranean). The findings reveal an average AM concentration of 483.12 ± 157.04 AMs/kg of beach sediment. The most common AM types were fibers (75.54%) and fragments (24.06%). AMs were predominantly black, red, and blue, measuring between 0.1 and 1 mm. The evaluation of the anthropogenic microparticles pollution index (AMPI) and the coefficient of anthropogenic microparticles impact (CAMI) for the study area indicated a “very high abundance” of AMs and an “extreme” level of impact. The polymers identified in these areas included PS, PE, PP, and PET. Tourism, fishing, domestic activities, and poor solid waste management practices are the primary sources of AM pollution in this region. To protect Moroccan beaches, the implementation of a consistent plastic waste management strategy is recommended.
Mycorrhizal Associations between Helvella bachu and Its Host Plants
Authors: Wei Caihong , Liu Mengqian , Hu Jianwei , Zhang Lili , Dong Caihong
Published: April 2024

Helvella bachu, a prized edible and medicinal fungus, is primarily found in the forests of Populus euphratica, an ancient and endangered species crucial to desert riparian ecosystems. Despite extensive efforts, the isolation of pure cultures and cultivation of fruiting bodies of H. bachu have remained elusive. While some species within the Helvella genus have been confirmed as ectomycorrhizal fungi, others have been considered either saprotrophic or mycorrhizal. By integrating field observations of H. bachu habitat, macro- and micro-anatomical examination of plant root tips, and molecular data from fruiting bodies, mycorrhizae, and host plants, it has been confirmed that H. bachu forms ectomycorrhizal associations with Populus trees. The mycorrhiza of H. bachu displays a light earth color with a curved smooth cylindrical shape. It features a thick mantle and the presence of a Hartig net, accompanied by a small amount of epitaxy mycelia. Morphological observation of the root tips requires meticulous handling, and the paraffin section technique has yielded noteworthy results. Host plants encompass four Populus species, including P. euphratica, P. pruinosa, P. nigra, and P. alba var. pyramidalis (synonym Populus bolleana). A conservation area was established within the young P. euphratica forest at Tarim University, resulting in a 14.75% increase in the quantity of fruiting bodies during the second year. Establishing a conservation area and in situ propagation of H. bachu holds economic and ecological implications. This study will contribute to the conservation of resources related to H. bachu and P. euphratica.
Computation Offloading Based on a Distributed Overlay Network Cache-Sharing Mechanism in Multi-Access Edge Computing
Authors: Liu Yazhi , Zhong Pengfei , Yang Zhigang , Li Wei , Li Siwei
Published: April 2024

Multi-access edge computing (MEC) enhances service quality for users and reduces computational overhead by migrating workloads and application data to the network edge. However, current solutions for task offloading and cache replacement in edge scenarios are constrained by factors such as communication bandwidth, wireless network coverage, and limited storage capacity of edge devices, making it challenging to achieve high cache reuse and lower system energy consumption. To address these issues, a framework leveraging cooperative edge servers deployed in wireless access networks across different geographical regions is designed. Specifically, we propose the Distributed Edge Service Caching and Offloading (DESCO) network architecture and design a decentralized resource-sharing algorithm based on consistent hashing, named Cache Chord. Subsequently, based on DESCO and aiming to minimize overall user energy consumption while maintaining user latency constraints, we introduce the real-time computation offloading (RCO) problem and transform RCO into a multi-player static game, prove the existence of Nash equilibrium solutions, and solve it using a multi-dimensional particle swarm optimization algorithm. Finally, simulation results demonstrate that the proposed solution reduces the average energy consumption by over 27% in the DESCO network compared to existing algorithms.
Simulation of Damage Caused by Oil Fire in Cable Passage to Tunnel Cable
Authors: Liu Feng , Zhang Jiaqing , Gu Mengfei , Liu Yushun , Sun Tao , Ye Liangpeng
Published: April 2024

In order to evaluate the damage to tunnel cables caused by fire caused by leakage of transformer oil into a cable channel, the fire characteristics of different volumes of transformer oil flowing into a cable channel were analyzed by numerical simulation. The results show that when the total leakage of transformer oil is less than or equal to 3 L, the fire will end within 120 s, and when the total leakage is greater than or equal to 5 L, the fire duration will exceed 900 s. When the leakage amount is 1 L, the cable only burns slightly, and when the leakage amount is 3~12 L, the cable burns obviously. The combustion of the cable is mainly concentrated between 15 s and 75 s, and the overall combustion rate of the cable increases first and then decreases. When the total leakage is greater than or equal to 8 L, the damage distance of the middle and lower layer cable is the smallest. When the total leakage is less than or equal to 5 L, the damage distance of the lower layer cable is the smallest, and the damage distance of the lower layer cable, middle and lower layer cable, and middle and upper layer cable is less than half of the length of the cable channel.
Short-Interval, High-Severity Wildfire Depletes Diversity of Both Extant Vegetation and Soil Seed Banks in Fire-Tolerant Eucalypt Forests
Authors: Kasel Sabine , Fairman Thomas A. , Nitschke Craig R.
Published: April 2024

Many plant species are well-adapted to historical fire regimes. An increase in the severity, frequency, and extent of wildfires could compromise the regenerative capacity of species, resulting in permanent shifts in plant diversity. We surveyed extant vegetation and soil seed banks across two forest types with contrasting historical fire regimes—Shrubby Dry Forest (fire return interval: 10–20 years) and Sub-Alpine Woodland (50–100 years). Over the past 20 years, both forests have been subject to repeated, high-severity wildfires at intervals significantly shorter than their historical return intervals. We examined the soil seed bank response to fire-cued germination, and whether the plant diversity in soil seed banks and extant vegetation demonstrated similar responses to short-interval, high-severity wildfires. The soil seed bank demonstrated a positive response to heat in combination with smoke, and for the Sub-Alpine Woodland, this was limited to sites more frequently burnt by fire. With an increase in fire frequency, there was a decline in species richness and Shannon’s Diversity and a shift in species composition in both extant vegetation and the soil seed bank. The fire frequency effects on the relative richness of trait associations were restricted to the Shrubby Dry Forest, and included an increase in short-lived obligate seeders, wind-dispersed species, and ant-dispersed shrubs in burnt relative to long unburnt sites in both extant vegetation and the soil seed bank. Graminoids were the most abundant component of the soil seed banks of Sub-Alpine Woodlands, and this increased with more frequent fire, with a similar trend (p = 0.06) in extant vegetation. Clear shifts in plant diversity in both soil seed banks and extant vegetation in forest types with contrasting historical fire regimes suggest that emerging fire regimes are pushing ecosystems beyond their historical range of variability, including potentially more flammable states and a decline in the buffering capacity of soil seed banks.
Comparative Analysis of Nutritional Quality, Serum Biochemical Indices, and Visceral Peritoneum of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) Fed with Two Distinct Aquaculture Systems
Authors: Feng Rui , Feng Di , Wang Lingran , Zhang Lan , Liu Chang , Ma Fangran , Zhang Meng , Yu Miao , Jiang Hongxia , Qiao Zhigang , Lu Ronghua , Wang Lei
Published: April 2024

This study scrutinized the nutritional quality and serum biochemical indices of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) cultivated in traditional pond intercropping (TPI) and in-pond raceway system (IPRS) aquaculture setups. The findings showed that the TPI group exhibited a superior water-holding capacity, while the IPRS showcased heightened crude lipid content and levels of textural properties such as springiness. Moreover, significant differences emerged in the fatty acid profiles, with the TPI group manifesting higher total polyunsaturated fatty acids (ΣPUFAs), EPA, DHA, and Σn-3, while the IPRS group exhibited elevated total saturated fatty acids (ΣSFAs). In terms of amino acids, valine and histidine levels were notably higher in the IPRS group, whereas lysine levels were reduced. Volatile compound analysis revealed significant variations, with the IPRS group containing more volatile substances with a better aroma, resulting in a better odor. The IPRS group performed better in serum biochemistry analysis. Additionally, grass carp in the IPRS group displayed an improved structure and greater coverage area of the visceral peritoneum, appearing lighter in color compared to the TPI group. TPI mainly influences nutritional elements; IPRSs primarily affect muscle texture, serum biochemistry, and overall health. This study aims to fill the gap in quality comparison research and provide an important scientific basis.
Changes in Chemical Composition of Lentils, Including Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid and Volatile Compound Formation during Submerged and Solid-State Fermentation with Pediococcus acidilactici
Authors: Mockus Ernestas , Starkute Vytaute , Klupsaite Dovile , Bartkevics Vadims , Borisova Anastasija , Sarunaite Lina , Arlauskiene Ausra , Rocha João Miguel , Bartkiene Elena
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the characteristics of non-treated and fermented [via submerged (SMF) and solid-state (SSF) fermentation using Pediococcus acidilactici] lentils (Lens culinaris) grown either in pure stands (L) or relay intercropped with winter rye (LR). It was observed that the lentils were suitable substrate for lacto-fermentation. Most of the free amino acid concentrations increased in lentils after both fermentations. The highest concentration of γ-aminobutyric acid was found in SSF LR samples. However, fermentation led to higher biogenic amines (BA) content in lentils. The most abundant fatty acid in lentils was C18:2. SSF lentils showed more complex volatile compound (VC) profiles (with between nine and seventeen new VCs formed), whereas, in SMF samples, between two and five newly VCs were formed. When comparing lentil grown types, L contained significantly higher concentrations of Na, K, Ca, P, Mn, and Se, while LR contained significantly higher concentrations of Fe and Ni. To sum up, fermentation with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) contributed to the improved biological value of lentils; still, the quantity of BA needs to be considered. Further investigations into the P. acidilactici metabolism of certain compounds (such as phenolic and antinutritional compounds) in lentils during fermentation ought to be carried out.
Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Verbascum sinaiticum Leaves: Maximal Phenolic Yield and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Legesse Alemu Belay , Emire Shimelis Admassu , Tadesse Minbale Gashu , Dadi Debebe Worku , Kassa Shimelis Kebede , Oyinloye Timilehin Martins , Yoon Won Byong
Published: April 2024

Verbascum sinaiticum (Qetetina or yeahya Joro) is a medicinal plant with secondary metabolites such as phenolics, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and alkaloids. This study was designed to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) parameters to enhance the phenolic content and characterize the phenolic compounds using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography, coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS), and antioxidant activities in Verbascum sinaiticum extract. Extraction time, sample-to-solvent ratio, and extraction temperature were considered for UAE optimization. It was found that UAE generated the highest extraction yield (21.6%), total phenolic content (179.8 GAE mg/g), total flavonoid content (64.49 CE mg/g), DPPH (61.85 µg/mL), and ABTS (38.89 µg/mL) when compared to maceration extraction. Metabolite analysis in this study showed the detection of 17 phenolic compounds, confirming antioxidant capacities. The optimization parameters have significant effects on phenolic compounds. Scanning electron microscopy showed the presence of structural changes when UAE was used over the maceration method. The optimized UAE parameters for extraction temperature (41.43 °C), sample-to-solvent ratio (36.32 g/mL), and extraction time (33.22 min) for TPC were obtained. This study shows the potential application for UAE of Verbascum sinaiticum leaves in the development of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products.
Spectral and Oscillation Theory for an Unconventional Fractional Sturm–Liouville Problem
Authors: Dehghan Mohammad , Mingarelli Angelo B.
Published: April 2024

Here, we investigate the spectral and oscillation theory for a class of fractional differential equations subject to specific boundary conditions. By transforming the problem into a modified version with a classical structure, we establish the orthogonality properties of eigenfunctions and some major comparison theorems for solutions. We also derive a new type of integration by using parts of formulas for modified fractional integrals and derivatives. Furthermore, we analyze the variational characterization of the first eigenvalue, revealing its non-zero first eigenfunction within the interior. Our findings demonstrate the potential for novel definitions of fractional derivatives to mirror the classical Sturm–Liouville theory through simple isospectral transformations.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Injectability Attributes in OxiFree™ Dermal Fillers: MaiLi® Product Variants and Clinical Case Reports
Authors: Micheels Patrick , Porcello Alexandre , Bezzola Thierry , Perrenoud Daniel , Christen Marie-Odile , Applegate Lee Ann , Laurent Alexis
Published: April 2024

Dermal filler injectability is a critical factor for commercial product adoption by medical aesthetic professionals and for successful clinical administration. We have previously reported (in vitro and ex vivo) cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA)-based dermal filler benchmarking in terms of manual and automated injectability requirements. To further enhance the function-oriented product characterization workflows and the clinical relevance of dermal filler injectability assessments, the aim of this study was to perform in vivo evaluations. Therefore, several variants of the MaiLi® product range (OxiFree™ technology) were characterized in vitro and in vivo in terms of injectability attributes, with a focus on hydrogel system homogeneity and ease of injection. Firstly, standardized in vitro assays were performed in SimSkin® cutaneous equivalents, with variations of the clinical injector, injection site, and injection technique. Then, automated injections in SimSkin® cutaneous equivalents were comparatively performed in a texture analysis setup to obtain fine-granulometry injection force profile results. Finally, five female participants were recruited for the in vivo arm of the study (case reports), with variations of the clinical injector, injection site, and injection technique. Generally, the obtained quantitative force values and injection force profiles were critically appraised from a translational viewpoint, based on discussions around the OxiFree™ manufacturing technology and on in-use specialized clinician feedback. Overall, the present study outlined a notable level of homogeneity across the MaiLi® product range in terms of injectability attributes, as well as consistently high ease of administration by medical aesthetic clinicians.
A Meteorological Drought Migration Model for Assessing the Spatiotemporal Paths of Drought in the Choushui River Alluvial Fan, Taiwan
Authors: Yeh Hsin-Fu , Lin Xin-Yu , Huang Chia-Chi , Chen Hsin-Yu
Published: April 2024

Understanding drought evolution and its driving factors is crucial for effective water resource management and forecasting. This study enhances the analysis of drought probability by constructing bivariate distributions, providing a more realistic perspective than single-characteristic approaches. Additionally, a meteorological drought migration model is established to explore spatiotemporal paths and related characteristics of major drought events in the Choushui River alluvial fan. The results reveal a significant increase in the probability of southward-moving drought events after 1981. Before 1981, drought paths were diverse, while after 1981, these paths became remarkably similar, following a trajectory from north to south. This is primarily attributed to the higher rainfall in the northern region of the Choushui River alluvial fan from February to April, leading to a consistent southward movement of drought centroids. This study proposes that climate change is a primary factor influencing changes in the spatiotemporal paths of drought. It implies that changes in rainfall patterns and climate conditions can be discerned through the meteorological drought migration model. As a result, it provides the potential for simplifying drought-monitoring methods. These research findings provide further insight into the dynamic process of drought in the Choushui River alluvial fan and serve as valuable references for future water resource management.
Men’s Social Connectedness in Later Life: A Qualitative Study with Older Men
Authors: Pereira Henrique , Silva Patricia , Torre Renata Della , dos Santos Marta Rosário , Moutinho Adriana , Solinho Sofia , Proença Constança , Cabral Joana , Santos Ana Jorge
Published: April 2024

This qualitative study aimed to understand men’s social connectedness in later life in Portugal focusing on their perceptions, obstacles, strategies, and impact on well-being. The sample included 104 older Portuguese men over 65 years of age (Mage = 70.76 years). The qualitative data were the direct transcriptions of the answers given by participants to the electronic interview using thematic analysis. Findings revealed six overarching themes encompassing 18 subcategories: definitions of social connectedness (social support, community identity, mental health promotion, use of community structures), difficulties/obstacles in maintaining social connectedness (ageism, lack of initiative, physical limitations, psychological traits, resources), strategies/actions or resources to establish social connections (use of technology, use of community groups, leisure and sport activities, church/religion), negative impact of difficulties in establishing relevant social connections (mental health, physical health, relationships), positive actions from being socially connected (positive prescriptions to promote social connectedness), and concerns from being socially disconnected (health risks). These findings indicate that the lack of social connectedness creates social vulnerability in later life, and social support is needed to ensure safer aging among older men.
Why Should Diabetic Women Be Active?—The Role of Personality, Self-Esteem, Body-Esteem, and Imagery
Authors: Budnik-Przybylska Dagmara , Fituch Malwina , Kowalewska Aleksandra
Published: April 2024

Diabetes is one of the fastest spreading diseases in the 21st century. The aim of the study is twofold: (1) to find differences in personality traits, self-esteem, body-esteem, and imagery between healthy women and women with diabetes; (2) to verify whether there are differences in the analyzed factors among women with diabetes who engage in sports compared to those who do not. We used 3 questionnaires: Imagination in Sport—short form, Self-Esteem Scale (SES), and BFIS Personality, which were tested online. We found that women with diabetes were characterized by significantly higher neuroticism, lower extraversion, and higher conscientiousness (marginally significant). We also found that women with diabetes who practice sport rated their bodies more highly in terms of sexual attractiveness and made better use of imagined affirmations than women without diabetes who were not active. Our study provides new insights into diabetics in terms of women navigating the disease.
Medicine Non-Adherence: A New Viewpoint on Adherence Arising from Research Focused on Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ward Peter Michael
Published: April 2024

Adherence is vital for medicine to have an effect, yet adherence is considered to be low, with approximately half of the patients not fully adherent. However, research into adherence tends to focus on quantitative analysis of performance, which fails to perceive how people are adherent in their many different environments. As a contribution to gaining a deeper understanding, interviews were held with thirty individuals in the UK, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and six countries in sub-Saharan Africa to understand their perceptions on adherence to a range of drugs, and these were compared with an existing well-regarded list. New or undocumented reasons for non-adherence were discovered. Reasons for non-adherence were consistent across both developing and developed worlds. A new viewpoint on adherence is suggested, which considers adherence to be a single act and therefore as an individual opportunity to be adherent, permitting greater focus on the enablers and inhibitors of adherence at any given point in time.
Effects of Species of Leaves and Conditioning Time on Vernal Colonization by Temperate Lotic Isopods (Lirceus sp.)
Authors: Heller Renee E. , Stouffer Alison N. , Iyengar Erika V.
Published: April 2024

While some streams have dense populations of aquatic detritivorous isopods, research on the colonization of leaf packs typically focuses on aquatic insects. To determine whether shifts in dominant local forest species might impact isopod populations, we placed leaf packs of red/sugar maple, American beech, and red oak on the substratum of riffles and pools in Cedar Creek (Allentown, PA, USA) in April 2019. We retrieved the packs after one week, re-deployed them, and re-collected them after two weeks of submersion, enumerating the number of isopods (Lirceus sp.) upon each retrieval. Surprisingly, neither the species of leaf nor the stream microhabitat significantly affected the number of isopods. However, the duration of leaf conditioning was important; significantly more isopods inhabited leaves after two weeks of submersion than after only one week. Maple and oak leaves displayed significantly more skeletonization after two weeks than the beech leaves, which remained intact. However, the similar numbers of isopods across leaf species suggest either the presence of acceptable, consumable microbial communities on all three species of leaves or that a tradeoff exists between the value of food and the importance of refuge provided by intact leaves.
Comparative Analysis of Olive-Derived Phenolic Compounds’ Pro-Melanogenesis Effects on B16F10 Cells and Epidermal Human Melanocytes
Authors: Cho Juhee , Bejaoui Meriem , Tominaga Kenichi , Isoda Hiroko
Published: April 2024

Olive leaf contains plenty of phenolic compounds, among which oleuropein (OP) is the main component and belongs to the group of secoiridoids. Additionally, phenolic compounds such as oleocanthal (OL) and oleacein (OC), which share a structural similarity with OP and two aldehyde groups, are also present in olive leaves. These compounds have been studied for several health benefits, such as anti-cancer and antioxidant effects. However, their impact on the skin remains unknown. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effects of these three compounds on melanogenesis using B16F10 cells and human epidermal cells. Thousands of gene expressions were measured by global gene expression profiling with B16F10 cells. We found that glutaraldehyde compounds derived from olive leaves have a potential effect on the activation of the melanogenesis pathway and inducing differentiation in B16F10 cells. Accordingly, the pro-melanogenesis effect was investigated by means of melanin quantification, mRNA, and protein expression using human epidermal melanocytes (HEM). This study suggests that secoiridoid and its derivates have an impact on skin protection by promoting melanin production in both human and mouse cell lines.
Missing WD40 Repeats in ATG16L1 Delays Canonical Autophagy and Inhibits Noncanonical Autophagy
Authors: Tang Jiuge , Fang Dongmei , Zhong Jialing , Li Min
Published: April 2024

Canonical autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved process that forms double-membrane structures and mediates the degradation of long-lived proteins (LLPs). Noncanonical autophagy (NCA) is an important alternative pathway involving the formation of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3)-positive structures that are independent of partial core autophagy proteins. NCA has been defined by the conjugation of ATG8s to single membranes (CASM). During canonical autophagy and NCA/CASM, LC3 undergoes a lipidation modification, and ATG16L1 is a crucial protein in this process. Previous studies have reported that the WDR domain of ATG16L1 is not necessary for canonical autophagy. However, our study found that WDR domain deficiency significantly impaired LLP degradation in basal conditions and slowed down LC3-II accumulation in canonical autophagy. We further demonstrated that the observed effect was due to a reduced interaction between ATG16L1 and FIP200/WIPI2, without affecting lysosome function or fusion. Furthermore, we also found that the WDR domain of ATG16L1 is crucial for chemical-induced NCA/CASM. The results showed that removing the WDR domain or introducing the K490A mutation in ATG16L1 significantly inhibited the NCA/CASM, which interrupted the V-ATPase-ATG16L1 axis. In conclusion, this study highlights the significance of the WDR domain of ATG16L1 for both canonical autophagy and NCA functions, improving our understanding of its role in autophagy.
Integrative Bioinformatics–Gene Network Approach Reveals Linkage between Estrogenic Endocrine Disruptors and Vascular Remodeling in Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Avecilla Vincent , Doke Mayur , Das Madhumita , Alcazar Oscar , Appunni Sandeep , Rech Tondin Arthur , Watts Brandon , Ramamoorthy Venkataraghavan , Rubens Muni , Das Jayanta Kumar
Published: April 2024

Vascular diseases, including peripheral arterial disease (PAD), pulmonary arterial hypertension, and atherosclerosis, significantly impact global health due to their intricate relationship with vascular remodeling. This process, characterized by structural alterations in resistance vessels, is a hallmark of heightened vascular resistance seen in these disorders. The influence of environmental estrogenic endocrine disruptors (EEDs) on the vasculature suggests a potential exacerbation of these alterations. Our study employs an integrative approach, combining data mining with bioinformatics, to unravel the interactions between EEDs and vascular remodeling genes in the context of PAD. We explore the molecular dynamics by which EED exposure may alter vascular function in PAD patients. The investigation highlights the profound effect of EEDs on pivotal genes such as ID3, LY6E, FOS, PTP4A1, NAMPT, GADD45A, PDGF-BB, and NFKB, all of which play significant roles in PAD pathophysiology. The insights gained from our study enhance the understanding of genomic alterations induced by EEDs in vascular remodeling processes. Such knowledge is invaluable for developing strategies to prevent and manage vascular diseases, potentially mitigating the impact of harmful environmental pollutants like EEDs on conditions such as PAD.
Cloud Broker: Customizing Services for Cloud Market Requirements
Authors: Filiopoulou Evangelia , Chatzithanasis Georgios , Michalakelis Christos , Nikolaidou Mara
Published: April 2024

Cloud providers offer various purchasing options to enable users to tailor their costs according to their specific requirements, including on-demand, reserved instances, and spot instances. On-demand and spot instances satisfy short-term workloads, whereas reserved instances fulfill long-term instances. However, there are workloads that fall outside of either long-term or short-term categories. Consequently, there is a notable absence of services specifically tailored for medium-term workloads. On-demand services, while offering flexibility, often come with high costs. Spot instances, though cost-effective, carry the risk of termination. Reserved instances, while stable and less expensive, may have a remaining period that extends beyond the duration of users’ tasks. This gap underscores the need for solutions that address the unique requirements and challenges associated with medium-term workloads in the cloud computing landscape. This paper introduces a new cloud broker that introduces IaaS services for medium-term workloads. On one hand, this broker strategically reserves resources from providers, and on the other hand, it interacts with users. Its interaction with users is twofold. It collects users’ preferences regarding commitment term for medium-term workloads and then transforms the leased resources based on commitment term, aligning with the requirements of most users. To ensure profitability, the broker sells these services utilizing an auction algorithm. Hence, in this paper, an auction algorithm is introduced and developed, which treats cloud services as virtual assets and integrates the depreciation over time. The findings affirm the lack of services that fulfill medium workloads while ensuring the financial viabilty and profitability of the broker, given that the estimated return on investment (ROI) is acceptable.
Enhancing Child Safety in Online Gaming: The Development and Application of Protectbot, an AI-Powered Chatbot Framework
Authors: Faraz Anum , Ahsan Fardin , Mounsef Jinane , Karamitsos Ioannis , Kanavos Andreas
Published: April 2024

This study introduces Protectbot, an innovative chatbot framework designed to improve safety in children’s online gaming environments. At its core, Protectbot incorporates DialoGPT, a conversational Artificial Intelligence (AI) model rooted in Generative Pre-trained Transformer 2 (GPT-2) technology, engineered to simulate human-like interactions within gaming chat rooms. The framework is distinguished by a robust text classification strategy, rigorously trained on the Publicly Available Natural 2012 (PAN12) dataset, aimed at identifying and mitigating potential sexual predatory behaviors through chat conversation analysis. By utilizing fastText for word embeddings to vectorize sentences, we have refined a support vector machine (SVM) classifier, achieving remarkable performance metrics, with recall, accuracy, and F-scores approaching 0.99. These metrics not only demonstrate the classifier’s effectiveness, but also signify a significant advancement beyond existing methodologies in this field. The efficacy of our framework is additionally validated on a custom dataset, composed of 71 predatory chat logs from the Perverted Justice website, further establishing the reliability and robustness of our classifier. Protectbot represents a crucial innovation in enhancing child safety within online gaming communities, providing a proactive, AI-enhanced solution to detect and address predatory threats promptly. Our findings highlight the immense potential of AI-driven interventions to create safer digital spaces for young users.
A Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation Approach to Assess Usefulness of Tourism Reviews by Considering Bias Identified in Sentiments and Articulacy
Authors: Kardaras Dimitrios K. , Troussas Christos , Barbounaki Stavroula G. , Tselenti Panagiota , Armyras Konstantinos
Published: April 2024

Assessing the usefulness of reviews has been the aim of several research studies. However, results regarding the significance of usefulness determinants are often contradictory, thus decreasing the accuracy of reviews’ helpfulness estimation. Also, bias in user reviews attributed to differences, e.g., in gender, nationality, etc., may result in misleading judgments, thus diminishing reviews’ usefulness. Research is needed for sentiment analysis algorithms that incorporate bias embedded in reviews, thus improving their usefulness, readability, credibility, etc. This study utilizes fuzzy relations and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) in order to calculate reviews’ usefulness by incorporating users’ biases as expressed in terms of reviews’ articulacy and sentiment polarity. It selected and analyzed 95,678 hotel user reviews from Tripadvisor, written by users from five specific nationalities. The findings indicate that there are differences among nationalities in terms of the articulacy and sentiment of their reviews. The British are most consistent in their judgments expressed in titles and the main body of reviews. For the British and the Greeks, review titles suffice to convey any negative sentiments. The Dutch use fewer words in their reviews than the other nationalities. This study suggests that fuzzy logic captures subjectivity which is often found in reviews, and it can be used to quantify users’ behavioral differences, calculate reviews’ usefulness, and provide the means for developing more accurate voting systems.