bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Factors Drive the Biogeographic Pattern of Hippophae rhamnoides Root Endophytic Fungal Diversity in the Arid Regions of Northwest China
Authors: Guo Siyu , Ye Guisheng , Liu Wenjie , Liu Ruoqi , Liu Zhehao , Ma Yuhua
Published: September 2024

Hippophae rhamnoides subsp. sinensis Rousi (Abbrev. H. rhamnoides) stands as a vital botanical asset in ameliorating the ecological landscape of the arid regions in Northwest China, where its rhizospheric microorganisms serve as linchpins in its growth and developmental dynamics. This study aimed to explore the community structure characteristics and origin differences of root endophytic fungi in H. rhamnoides. Samples were collected from 25 areas where H. rhamnoides is naturally distributed along an altitude gradient in the northwest region. Then, endophytic fungi from different regions were analyzed by using high-throughput sequencing technology to compare the structural characteristics of endophytic fungi and examine their association with environmental factors. FUNGuild was employed to analyze the community structure and functions of endophytic fungi, and the results showed that each region had its own dominant endophytic fungal flora, demonstrating the differences in origin of endophytic fungi, and the specific endophytic flora acquired from the original soil in the growing season of H. rhamnoides will help us construct the microecological community structure. Furthermore, the study identified and assessed the diversity of fungi, elucidating the species structure and highlighting dominant species. The RDA analysis revealed that available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), and total nitrogen (TN) exhibit significant correlations with the composition and diversity of root-associated fungi. In conclusion, the fungal community structure is similar within the same region, while significant differences exist in the taxonomic structure and biodiversity among different regions. These findings shed light on the intricate interplay and mechanisms governing the ecological restoration of H. rhamnoides, offering a valuable framework for advancing green ecology initiatives and harnessing the potential of root-associated microorganisms in this species.
Airborne Alternaria Spores: 70 Annual Records in Northwestern Spain
Authors: Sánchez Espinosa Kenia C. , Aira María Jesús , Fernández-González María , Rodríguez-Rajo Francisco Javier
Published: September 2024

This study presents data on the concentration of Alternaria spores in the atmosphere of the northwestern Iberian Peninsula. A non-viable volumetric method was used to collect the samples, resulting in a database of 70 annual. When the annual averages for each locality are calculated, Ourense stands out with 2152 spores/m3, followed by Vigo and Lugo, while Santiago de Compostela recorded the lowest concentrations. Focusing on the total data for each locality, the main sporulation period started in May and ended in October in all localities, centered on a single phase, with an earlier onset and longer duration in Ourense and Vigo. The number of days with concentrations in excess of 100 spores/m3 was very low in Santiago de Compostela, Ourense, and Vigo and null in Lugo. Temperature was the meteorological parameter for which the highest statistical correlation was obtained in all locations, being favorable to the concentration of spores in the air. Temperature ranges favorable to the presence of airborne spores in the study area ranged from 25.5 to 31.2 °C. Based on the analysis of the data collected, it is concluded that Alternaria spore concentrations are low throughout most of the year.
Towards the Integrated Management of Fusarium Wilt of Banana
Authors: Blomme Guy , Mahuku George , Kearsley Elizabeth , Dita Miguel
Published: September 2024

This Special Issue contains a selection of papers dealing with Fusarium wilt of banana (FWB), with a special focus on the Fusarium strain Tropical Race 4 (TR4), and explores (1) options for effective integrated management strategies, (2) the detection and development of disease-resistant cultivars, and (3) the distribution and diversity of the pathogen [...]
The Power of Numerical Indicators in Predicting Bankruptcy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Billios Dimitrios , Seretidou Dimitra , Stavropoulos Antonios
Published: September 2024

This paper systematically reviews the behavior of numerical indicators in predicting future bankruptcy of companies through statistical analysis models. Following the PRISMA standard, ten primary studies were included in the review. The obtained results underline (1) the ability of numerical indicators, through simple statistical analysis models, to forecast the bankruptcy of businesses and companies and (2) the reliability of cash flows in predicting financial distress through statistical analysis, and (3) models are built with indicators from a specific economy; it is impossible to consider them stable and unchanging, as changes in a country’s economic conditions can potentially impact their predictive accuracy.
Bayesian Lower and Upper Estimates for Ether Option Prices with Conditional Heteroscedasticity and Model Uncertainty
Authors: Siu Tak Kuen
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to leverage Bayesian nonlinear expectations to construct Bayesian lower and upper estimates for prices of Ether options, that is, options written on Ethereum, with conditional heteroscedasticity and model uncertainty. Specifically, a discrete-time generalized conditional autoregressive heteroscedastic (GARCH) model is used to incorporate conditional heteroscedasticity in the logarithmic returns of Ethereum, and Bayesian nonlinear expectations are adopted to introduce model uncertainty, or ambiguity, about the conditional mean and volatility of the logarithmic returns of Ethereum. Extended Girsanov’s principle is employed to change probability measures for introducing a family of alternative GARCH models and their risk-neutral counterparts. The Bayesian credible intervals for “uncertain” drift and volatility parameters obtained from conjugate priors and residuals obtained from the estimated GARCH model are used to construct Bayesian superlinear and sublinear expectations giving the Bayesian lower and upper estimates for the price of an Ether option, respectively. Empirical and simulation studies are provided using real data on Ethereum in AUD. Comparisons with a model incorporating conditional heteroscedasticity only and a model capturing ambiguity only are presented.
Impact of Hormone Therapy on Serum Lipids in Transgender People
Authors: Almeida Beatriz , Mariana Melissa , Lorigo Margarida , Oliveira Nelson , Cairrao Elisa
Published: September 2024

The term “Transgender” is used to describe individuals whose gender identity is different from their external sexual anatomy at birth. The number of people identifying as transgender has increased in recent years, and consequently, the number of gender affirmation surgeries and the use of hormonal therapies has also increased. A wide range of hormonal therapies has emerged considering the target population, age, and final outcomes, and as such these are becoming increasingly developed and complex in order to be the most appropriate for each individual. However, the side effects of these therapies remain to be fully understood. Therefore, this review aims to assess the impact of hormone therapy, in both transgender men and women of different ages, on the lipid profile. From the studies analyzed, it is possible to conclude that there is a relationship between hormone therapy and the lipid profile, with different outcomes between transgender men and women. There is a reduction in cardiovascular risk for transgender women as opposed to transgender men, in whom cardiovascular risk seems to increase due to lipid changes. It is now necessary to understand the mechanisms involved in order to reduce the consequences of these therapies and promote positive health outcomes.
The Concept of Agency, Animal Wellbeing, and the Practical Realities of Ex Situ Breeding Programs in Zoos and Aquariums
Authors: Norman Max , Brando Sabrina
Published: September 2024

Conservation and animal wellbeing are two key goals of the modern zoo and aquarium. In the case of ex situ conservation breeding programs, there is a unique paradox between these concepts; on some occasions, facilities must balance and mitigate arising conflicts between the wellbeing of animals with the goals of the conservation project. Exerting control over the reproductive lives of animals—choosing when and where they breed, whom they breed with, whether breeding is prohibited altogether, and so on—results in an inherent reduction in the animal’s agency. Considering the growing recognition that providing choice and control to animals enhances wellbeing, it is essential to examine how populations and their breeding are managed. The present review presents challenges in supporting agency for animals bred ex situ by thoroughly exploring the practical realities of working with these animals. Various challenges and areas of consideration, including current research directions, suggestions for future practices, and opportunities moving forward, are highlighted. The importance of careful population management in maximising wellbeing, including the inherent dichotomy of the necessity to limit some reproductive autonomy to preserve animal wellbeing while meeting the needs of breeding programs.
Optimisation of Ex Vivo Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Culture and DNA Double Strand Break Repair Kinetics
Authors: Hosking Holly , Pederick Wayne , Neilsen Paul , Fenning Andrew
Published: September 2024

The assessment and modelling of DNA double-strand break damage and repair is widely investigated throughout the literature. This optimisation study investigated the requirement of cell proliferation prior to treatment with chemotherapeutic agents to damage DNA and the optimal window of analysis for DNA double-strand break repair measurements with γ-H2AX. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were collected from healthy volunteers and incubated with phytohaemagglutinin at final concentrations of 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5 and 10 µg/mL for 0, 24, 48, 72 and 168 h at 37 °C, 5% CO2, and proliferation was measured via spectrometry (MTS assay). This study, detailed in this methodology paper, found that peripheral blood mononuclear cells must be proliferated prior to the chemical induction of DNA double-strand breaks. The window for assessment of early DNA double-strand break repair was determined to be one hour after removal of the DNA damaging agent.
Crown Width–Tree Height Models for Magnolia grandiflora, Prunus cerasifera, and Acer negundo Growing in Cities in Northeastern Greece
Authors: Chatziathanasiou Styliani , Kitikidou Kyriaki , Milios Elias
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study is the development of crown width–tree height (CW-H) models in cities in northeastern Greece, for better urban vegetation management. In the cities of Kavala, Xanthi, Komotini, Alexadroupolis, and Orestiada, in total, 700 trees of Magnolia grandiflora L., Prunus cerasifera Ehrh., and Acer negundo L. were selected. For each selected tree, the total height as well as the minimum and maximum crown diameter were measured, and the average of the minimum and maximum diameter was considered the crown width. The selected CW-H models exhibit satisfactory R2 values of 0.60 and above. There is not a common pattern in the value order (or rank) of R2 among the M. grandiflora, P. cerasifera, and A. negundo CW-H models in the studied cities. A medium-sized tree such as M. grandiflora, a small-medium sized tree such as A. negundo, and a shrub or small tree such as P. cerasifera did not exhibit substantial differences in estimated and observed crown widths. The results of this study will increase our understanding of CW-H allometries. The main use of these models will be in the selection of the proper above-ground spacing of tree lines and in the spatial planning of a tree’s establishment so that no problems arise from its proximity to infrastructure.
Olive Oil as a Tourist Attraction: An Analysis of Demand
Authors: Dancausa Millán Mª Genoveva , Millán Vázquez de la Torre Mª Genoveva
Published: September 2024

Olive oil is not only an essential culinary element in the diet of Mediterranean countries, but it is also becoming an increasingly attractive element from a tourism perspective. The olive grove landscape, ancient olive trees, and oil mills are increasingly attracting tourists eager to experience this type of tourism. This research analyzes the profile of the oleotourist in the four designations of the province of Córdoba (Spain). SARIMA models have been applied to predict oleotourism demand, resulting in a growing demand, which will create jobs in the towns dedicated to this cultivation. The main problem is the seasonality of this demand, which can be corrected by creating complementary activities such as olive oil festivals, cooking workshops, or tasting sessions. A logit model has also been developed to determine which variables influence the probability of being satisfied with the oleotourism experience, with environmental conservation and travel cost being the most influential. Regarding the bivariate analysis, motivation and satisfaction with the trip are closely related, as is the personal classification of the oleotourist; the more they know about the world of olive cultivation, the more satisfied they are with their experience.
Agroecology for the City—Spatialising ES-Based Design in Peri-Urban Contexts
Authors: Morris Richard , Davis Shannon , Grelet Gwen-Aëlle , Gregorini Pablo
Published: September 2024

The design of urban systems that allow growth while also maximising ecosystem services is identified as an important priority for creating a Good Anthropocene. An ecosystem service (ES)-based approach to landscape interventions maximises the provision of ESs, and in doing so, repairs and reinforces threatened ecological planetary boundaries. As an urbanising planet, cities are critical frontiers of human interaction with these planetary boundaries, and therefore a critical arena for ES-based intervention. Globally, the predominant pattern of urbanisation is dedensification, an outwardly expanding trend where cities are growing in physical extent at a higher rate than their population growth. We therefore require spatially explicit tools capable of reconciling dedensification and Good Anthropocene visions. We propose a methodology that integrates agroecology and urbanisation and is focussed specifically on the supply of targeted regulating ESs. This ‘Agroecology for the City’ differs from conventional urban agriculture discourse and its preoccupation with food security. Our research interest is agroecological farm systems’ (AFSs) capacity to provide critical life support services in a spatially effective manner to urban systems. Our recent research introduced a new GIS-based model (ESMAX) and a spatial agroecology approach that identified AFS configurations at a 1 ha scale which maximised the supply of three regulating ESs, as well as multifunctional performance across all three ESs combined. In the present research, we apply this process at a larger scale, with 1 ha and 4 ha AFS parcels being integrated with a real-world 200 ha peri-urban residential development. The AFS parcels and built-up areas are configured differently to maximise the supply of ESs identified as critical by the local community. We found that arrangements with AFS parcels interspersed evenly with built-up areas provided the best multifunctionality across the four ESs tested. This supports pathways for a Good Anthropocene that work with the global urbanising reality of dedensification and underpin the need for a hybrid science of rural/urban systems.
Land Use Optimization from the Perspective of Multiple Stakeholder Groups: A Case Study in Yongsheng County, Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Feng Haobo , Hou Jian , Jiang Jiahui , Shi Linfang
Published: September 2024

With China’s rapid economic development in recent years, enhancing the sense of well-being among citizens has become a critical objective. However, the interests of various stakeholder groups are often overlooked in decision-making surrounding land use. In this study, Yongsheng County, Yunnan Province serves as a case study for land use scenario simulations. The equivalent factor method is combined with Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) to investigate the relationship between ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) and the equity index of multiple stakeholder groups in various land use scenarios. We also explore whether an optimal combination of land use types exists. The results indicate that (1) The current ecosystem service value in Yongsheng County is primarily driven by climate regulation and biodiversity conservation, with a relatively high functional value index but a comparatively low equity index; (2) Different stakeholder groups mainly prioritize food production and ecosystem services impacting food production, such as water resource provision and climate regulation; (3) A land use allocation pattern of 20% farmland, 4% water bodies, 21% mixed forest, 20% coniferous forest, and 35% grassland appears to provide the optimal EMF index while simultaneously achieving the optimal equity index across stakeholder groups. This research may offer valuable insights for optimizing land use planning while taking into account the well-being of diverse stakeholder groups. It also may have practical implications for the formulation of innovative land use management strategies.
Visual Impact Assessment Method for Cultural Heritage: West Lake Cultural Landscape in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Kou Huaiyun , Zhang Longchang , Zhang Sichu
Published: September 2024

Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) is a critical tool in managing cultural heritage, evaluating the impacts of development and construction projects on the visual aspects of heritage values. However, VIA is often constrained by subjectivity, low public participation, and a lack of generalizability. This study aims to develop a methodological framework for a more objective and comprehensive assessment of visual impacts on cultural heritage. The study establishes criteria for indicators based on the value attributes of cultural heritage, develops an assessment indicator system, and integrates visual sensitivity assessment through multi-factor calculations with visual perception assessment using the AHP method and questionnaire surveys. This constructs an assessment framework that combines both objectivity and subjectivity. The Shangri-La Hotel East Building project at the World Heritage site of the West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, China, is employed as a case study to empirically demonstrate the framework’s practicality and effectiveness. The results indicate that the Shangri-La East Building significantly impacts the attributes of the West Lake. The conclusion demonstrates that the indicator system, grounded in the attributes of cultural heritage, enhances the framework’s applicability across different contexts. The integrated assessment framework, which includes both a quantitative assessment of visual sensitivity and a public-participation-based assessment of visual perception, is shown to be effective in predicting the visual impacts of proposed projects on heritage values. The study also underscores the importance of Heritage Impact Assessment as a preliminary evaluation.
Analysis of Surface Drag Reduction Characteristics of Non-Smooth Jet Coupled Structures
Authors: Kou Jinming , Lou Qiannan , Gu Yunqing , Zhang Junjun , Mou Chengqi , Yu Jiayun , Ding Youting , Xu Chengbo
Published: September 2024

To enhance the service life of shipping equipment and minimize surface wear, this study employs biomimetic principles, integrating fitted structures with jet dynamics to model three configurations: non-smooth structures, single jet structures, and non-smooth jet-coupled structures. We utilized the SST k-ω turbulence model for numerical simulations to investigate the drag reduction characteristics of these structural models. By varying the jet angle and speed, we analyzed the changes in viscous resistance, pressure differential resistance, and drag reduction rates at the wall surface. Furthermore, the mechanisms of compressive stress, velocity fields, vortex structures, and shear stress on drag-reducing surfaces were elucidated, revealing how these factors contribute to drag reduction in non-smooth jet-coupled structures. The results indicate that the non-smooth jet-coupled structure exhibits superior drag reduction performance at a main flow field velocity of 20 m/s. As the jet velocity increases, the viscous drag on the surface of the non-smooth jet-coupled structure decreases, while the pressure differential drag increases. Conversely, variations in the jet angle have a minimal effect on viscous drag but lead to a reduction in pressure differential drag. Specifically, when the jet velocity is set at 1 m/s, and the jet angle is 60°, the drag reduction achieved by the non-smooth jet-coupled structure peaks at 7.48%. Additionally, the non-smooth jet-coupled structure features a larger area characterized by low shear stress, along with an increased boundary layer thickness at the bottom; this configuration effectively reduces surface velocity and consequent viscous drag.
Synergistic Effects of Surface Texture and Cryogenic Treatment on the Tribological Performance of Aluminum Alloy Surfaces
Authors: Liu Rui , Deng Xiwen , Sun Xuejian , Lei Jilin , Jia Dewen , Chen Wengang , Ji Qiang
Published: September 2024

In order to improve the tribological properties of the 7075-T6 aluminum alloy used on the rotor surface, a combined method of cryogenic treatment and laser surface texture treatment was applied. Various tests, including metallographic microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, elemental analysis, microhardness measurements, were conducted to examine the wear morphology and modification mechanism of the treated 7075-T6 aluminum alloy surface. A numerical simulation model of surface texture was established using computational fluid dynamics to analyze the lubrication characteristics of V-shaped texture. The research finding that the 7075-T6 aluminum alloy experienced grain refinement during the cryogenic treatment process, enhancing the wear resistance of the V-shaped textures. This improvement delayed the progression of fatigue wear, abrasive wear, and oxidative wear, thereby reducing friction losses. The designed V-shaped texture contributes to reducing contact area, facilitating the capture and retention of abrasives, and enhancing oil film load-bearing capacity, thereby improving tribological performance. The synergistic effect of cryogenic treatment reduced the friction coefficient by 24.8% and the wear loss by 66.4%. Thus, the combination of surface texture and cryogenic treatment significantly improved the tribological properties of the 7075-T6 aluminum alloy.
Electrification of a Mini Traction Machine and Initial Test Results
Authors: Lee Peter , Sanchez Carlos , Moneer Michael , Velasquez Andrew
Published: September 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) continue to evolve, and sales continue to increase as the world pushes toward improved sustainability. This drives the need for research to understand the unique environments in which fluids operate within the Electric Drive Units (EDUs) of EVs in order to improve durability and reduce frictional losses. However, for this to happen, test rigs are required to operate with an electric current passing across the test parts and through the lubricant. Very few electrified test rigs currently exist, with most being adaptations of rigs undertaken by academia and independent and national research labs. In this work, the PCS Mini Traction Machine (MTM) was modified to supply a voltage across a tribological contact. New parts for the MTM were designed in collaboration with the instrument manufacturer. Work was undertaken in both the author’s labs and the manufacturer’s labs with the aim of bringing a commercially available unit to market as quickly as possible. A test matrix was completed on the MTM utilizing a range of temperatures, loads, and voltage inputs for three different lubricants commonly used in EDUs. The test matrix consisted of 36 test conditions, with some runs performed in triplicate, resulting in 81 tests for each oil and a total matrix of 243 tests. The test matrix was run to obtain the results and to test the robustness of the rig design. After testing was completed, the MTM disc wear scars were measured. The results from these measurements indicate that the application of alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) causes a significant increase in the wear scar compared to non-electrified test conditions. This, in turn, results in increased traction values under non-electrified conditions. It was also noted that the repeatability of the traction curves and end-of-test wear was reduced under both AC and DC electrified conditions.
Theoretical Hints to Optimize Energy Dissipation and Cell–Cell Response in Quantum Cellular Automata Based on Tetrameric and Bidimeric Cells
Authors: Palii Andrew , Zilberg Shmuel , Tsukerblat Boris
Published: September 2024

This article is largely oriented towards the theoretical foundations of the rational design of molecular cells for quantum cellular automata (QCA) devices with optimized properties. We apply the vibronic approach to the analysis of the two key properties of such molecular cells, namely the cell–cell response and energy dissipation in the course of the non-adiabatic switching of the electric field acting on the cell. We consider two kinds of square planar cells, namely cells represented by a two-electron tetrameric mixed valence (MV) cluster and bidimeric cells composed of two one-electron MV dimeric half-cells. The model includes vibronic coupling of the excess electrons with the breathing modes of the redox sites, electron transfer, intracell interelectronic Coulomb repulsion, and also the interaction of the cell with the electric field of polarized neighboring cells. For both kinds of cells, the heat release is shown to be minimal in the case of strong delocalization of excess electrons (weak vibronic coupling and/or strong electron transfer) exposed to a weak electric field. On the other hand, such a parametric regime proves to be incompatible with a strong nonlinear cell–cell response. To reach a compromise between low energy dissipation and a strong cell–cell response, we suggest using weakly interacting MV molecules with weak electron delocalization as cells. From this point of view, bidimeric cells are advantageous over tetrameric ones due to their smaller number of electron transfer pathways, resulting in a lower extent of electron delocalization. The distinct features of bidimeric cells, such as their two possible mutual arrangements (“side-by-side” and “head-to-tail”), are discussed as well. Finally, we briefly discuss some relevant results from a recent ab initio study on electron transfer and vibronic coupling from the perspective of the possibility of controlling the key parameters of molecular QCA cells.
Profiling Astroturfers on Facebook: A Complete Framework for Labeling, Feature Extraction, and Classification
Authors: Schler Jonathan , Bonchek-Dokow Elisheva
Published: September 2024

The practice of online astroturfing has become increasingly pervasive in recent years, with the growth in popularity of social media. Astroturfing consists of promoting social, political, or other agendas in a non-transparent or deceitful way, where the promoters masquerade as normative users while acting behind a mask that conceals their true identity, and at times that they are not human. In politics, astroturfing is currently considered one of the most severe online threats to democracy. The ability to automatically identify astroturfers thus constitutes a first step in eradicating this threat. We present a complete framework for handling a dataset of profiles, from data collection and efficient labeling, through feature extraction, and finally, to the identification of astroturfers lurking in the dataset. The data were collected over a period of 15 months, during which three consecutive elections were held in Israel. These raw data are unique in scope and size, consisting of several million public comments and reactions to posts on political candidates’ pages. For the manual labeling stage, we present a technique that can zoom in on a sufficiently large subset of astroturfer profiles, thus making the procedure highly efficient. The feature extraction stage consists of a temporal layer of features, which proves useful for identifying astroturfers. We then applied and compared several algorithms in the classification stage, and achieved improved results, with an F1 score of 77% and accuracy of 92%.
How Does the Innovation Openness of China’s Sci-Tech Innovation Enterprises Support Innovation Quality: The Mediation Role of Structural Embeddedness
Authors: Song Haoyang , Chen Ruixu , Yang Xiucai , Hou Jianhua
Published: September 2024

Sci-Tech innovation enterprises (STIEs) in China are responsible for improving the quality of national innovation (IQ). Because of their inherent innovation openness (IO), STIEs are facing constantly changing external cooperation channels and gradually optimizing their openness. However, existing research considers external cooperation relationships as established network environments, which may not apply to STIEs’ network relationships that are still under construction. Hence, this study investigates the impact of STIEs’ IO on IQ by exploring the role of structure embeddedness (SE). Empirical findings from 362 sample enterprises suggest that openness breadth and depth have an inverted U-shaped relationship with IQ, while openness balance impacts IQ positively. Moreover, network centrality plays a partial mediation role between openness depth and IQ, and network reach fully mediates the relationship between openness balance and IQ. The results indicate the influence of three openness factors on IQ and further expand the research on the SE of STIEs in the dynamic development stage. These can support STIEs to improve IQ through the adjustment of network centrality and reach by changing their openness depth and balance.
Inequalities for Basic Special Functions Using Hölder Inequality
Authors: Masjed-Jamei Mohammad , Moalemi Zahra , Saad Nasser
Published: September 2024

Let p,q≥1 be two real numbers such that 1p+1q=1, and let a,b∈R be two parameters defined on the domain of a function, for example, f. Based on the well known Hölder inequality, we propose a generic inequality of the form |f(ap+bq)|≤|f(a)|1p|f(b)|1q, and show that many basic special functions, such as the gamma and polygamma functions, Riemann zeta function, beta function and Gauss and confluent hypergeometric functions, satisfy this type of inequality. In this sense, we also present some particular inequalities for the Gauss and confluent hypergeometric functions to confirm the main obtained inequalities.
Two-Phase Incompressible Flow with Dynamic Capillary Pressure in a Heterogeneous Porous Media
Authors: Mostefai Mohamed Lamine , Choucha Abdelbaki , Boulaaras Salah , Alrawashdeh Mufda
Published: September 2024

We prove the existence of weak solutions of a two-incompressible immiscible wetting and non-wetting fluids phase flow model in porous media with dynamic capillary pressure. This model is a coupled system which includes a nonlinear parabolic saturation equation and an elliptic pressure–velocity equation. In the regularized case, the existence and uniqueness of the weak solution are obtained. We let the regularization parameter be η→0 to prove the existence of weak solutions.
Parametric Optimization for Fully Fuzzy Linear Programming Problems with Triangular Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Bhowmick Aliviya , Chakraverty Snehashish , Chatterjee Subhashish
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a new approach for solving FFLP problems using a double parametric form (DPF), which is critical in decision-making scenarios characterized by uncertainty and imprecision. Traditional linear programming methods often fall short in handling the inherent vagueness in real-world problems. To address this gap, an innovative method has been proposed which incorporates fuzzy logic to model the uncertain parameters as TFNs, allowing for a more realistic and flexible representation of the problem space. The proposed method stands out due to its integration of fuzzy arithmetic into the optimization process, enabling the handling of fuzzy constraints and objectives directly. Unlike conventional techniques that rely on crisp approximations or the defuzzification process, the proposed approach maintains the fuzziness throughout the computation, ensuring that the solutions retain their fuzzy characteristics and better reflect the uncertainties present in the input data. In summary, the proposed method has the ability to directly incorporate fuzzy parameters into the optimization framework, providing a more comprehensive solution to FFLP problems. The main findings of this study underscore the method’s effectiveness and its potential for broader application in various fields where decision-making under uncertainty is crucial.
Reliability and Sensitivity Analysis of Wireless Sensor Network Using a Continuous-Time Markov Process
Authors: Kumar Amit , Jadhav Sujata , Alsalami Omar Mutab
Published: September 2024

A remarkably high growth has been observed in the uses of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), due to their momentous potential in various applications, namely the health sector, smart agriculture, safety systems, environmental monitoring, military operations, and many more. It is quite important that a WSN must have high reliability along with the least MTTF. This paper introduces a continuous-time Markov process, which is a special case of stochastic process, based on modeling of a wireless sensor network for analyzing the various reliability indices of the same. The modeling has been conducted by considering the different components, including the sensing unit, transceiver, microcontroller, power supply, standby power supply unit, and their failures/repairs, which may occur during their functioning. The study uncovered different important assessment parameters like reliability, components-wise reliability, MTTF, and sensitivity analysis. The critical components of a WSN are identified by incorporating the concept of sensitivity analysis. The outcomes emphasize that the proposed model will be ideal for understanding different reliability indices of WSNs and guiding researchers and potential users in developing a more robust wireless sensor network system.
On the Calibration of the Kennedy Model
Authors: Tóth-Lakits Dalma , Arató Miklós
Published: September 2024

The Kennedy model offers a robust framework for modeling forward rates, leveraging Gaussian random fields to accommodate emerging phenomena such as negative rates. In our study, we employ maximum likelihood estimations to determine the parameters of the Kennedy field, utilizing Radon–Nikodym derivatives for enhanced accuracy. We introduce an efficient simulation method for the Kennedy field and develop a Black–Scholes-like analytical pricing formula for diverse financial assets. Additionally, we present a novel parameter estimation algorithm grounded in numerical extreme value optimization, enabling the recalibration of parameters based on observed financial product prices. To validate the efficacy of our approach, we assess its performance using real-world par swap rates in the latter part of this article.
Dynamic Analysis and Approximate Solution of Transient Stability Targeting Fault Process in Power Systems
Authors: Wu Hao , Li Jing
Published: September 2024

Modern power systems are high-dimensional, strongly coupled nonlinear systems with complex and diverse dynamic characteristics. The polynomial model of the power system is a key focus in stability research. Therefore, this paper presents a study on the approximate transient stability solution targeting the fault process in power systems. Firstly, based on the inherent sinusoidal coupling characteristics of the power system swing equations, a generalized polynomial matrix description in perturbation form is presented using the Taylor expansion formula. Secondly, considering the staged characteristics of the stability process in power systems, the approximate solutions of the polynomial model during and after the fault are provided using coordinate transformation and regular perturbation techniques. Then, the structural characteristics of the approximate solutions are analyzed, revealing the mathematical basis of the stable motion patterns of the power grid, and a monotonicity rule of the system’s power angle oscillation amplitude is discovered. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed methods and analyses is further validated by numerical examples of the IEEE 3-machine 9-bus system and IEEE 10-machine 39-bus system.
Hybrid Deep Neural Network Approaches for Power Quality Analysis in Electric Arc Furnaces
Authors: Panoiu Manuela , Panoiu Caius
Published: September 2024

In this research, we investigate the power quality of the grid where an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) with a very high load operates. An Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) is a highly nonlinear load that uses very high and variable currents, causing major power quality issues such as voltage sags, flickers, and harmonic distortions. These disturbances produce electrical grid instability, affect the operation of other equipment, and require strong mitigation measures to reduce their impact. To investigate these issues, data are collected from the Point of Common Coupling where the Electric Arc Furnace is fed. The following three main factors are identified for evaluating power quality: apparent power, active and reactive power, and distorted power. Along with these powers, Total Harmonic Distortion, an important indicator of power quality, is calculated. These data are collected during the full process of producing a complete steel batch. To create a Deep Neural Network that can model and forecast power quality parameters, a network is developed using LSTM layers, Convolutional Layers, and GRU Layers, all of which demonstrate good prediction performance. The results of the prediction models are examined, as well as the primary metrics characterizing the prediction, using the following: MAE, RMSE, R-squared, and sMAPE. Predicting active and reactive power and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) proves useful for anticipating power quality problems in an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF). By reducing the EAF’s impact on the power system, accurate predictions will anticipate and minimize disturbances, optimize energy consumption, and improve grid stability. This research’s principal scientific contribution is the development of a hybrid deep neural network that integrates Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) layers. This deep neural network was designed to predict power quality metrics, including active power, reactive power, distortion power, and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). The proposed methodology indicates an important step in improving the accuracy of power quality forecasting for Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs). The hybrid model’s ability for analyzing both time-series data and complex nonlinear patterns improves its predictive accuracy compared to traditional methods.
New Coupled Optical Solitons to Birefringent Fibers for Complex Ginzburg–Landau Equations with Hamiltonian Perturbations and Kerr Law Nonlinearity
Authors: Yomba Emmanuel , Ramchandra Nair Poonam
Published: September 2024

In this study, we use an analytical method tailored for the in-depth exploration of coupled nonlinear partial differential equations (NLPDEs), with a primary focus on the dynamics of solitons. Traditional methods are quite effective for solving individual nonlinear partial differential equations (NLPDEs). However, their performance diminishes notably when addressing systems of coupled NLPDEs. This decline in effectiveness is mainly due to the complex interaction terms that arise in these coupled systems. Commonly, researchers have attempted to simplify coupled NLPDEs into single equations by imposing proportional relationships between various solutions. Unfortunately, this simplification often leads to a significant deviation from the true physical phenomena that these equations aim to describe. Our approach is distinctively advantageous in its straightforwardness and precision, offering a clearer and more insightful analytical perspective for examining coupled NLPDEs. It is capable of concurrently facilitating the propagation of different soliton types in two distinct systems through a single process. It also supports the spontaneous emergence of similar solitons in both systems with minimal restrictions. It has been extensively used to investigate a wide array of new coupled progressive solitons in birefringent fibers, specifically for complex Ginzburg–Landau Equations (CGLEs) involving Hamiltonian perturbations and Kerr law nonlinearity. The resulting solitons, with comprehensive 2D and 3D visualizations, showcase a variety of coupled soliton configurations, including several that are unprecedented in the field. This innovative approach not only addresses a significant gap in existing methodologies but also broadens the horizons for future research in optical communications and related disciplines.
Fuzzy Assessment Mechanisms under Multi-Objective Considerations
Authors: Liao Yu-Hsien
Published: September 2024

In many operational environments, it is essential to conduct comprehensive minimal assessments of the effects arising from various operational causes, with the goal of achieving effective outcomes. For instance, the aim might be to meet basic production targets in the shortest time possible, using the least cost and minimal labor. Given that actual operational behaviors are often vague and unpredictable, this study proposes a mechanism to assess the minimal effects generated by various operational causes under multi-objective and fuzzy behavior considerations. By considering the relative significance of operational causes or its behaviors under different environments, several weighted extensions are further developed. The mathematical correctness and practical applicability of these assessment mechanisms are analyzed by using an axiomatic characterization.
Extreme Heat Events and Emergency Department Visits among Older Adults in California from 2012–2019
Authors: Santodomingo Melodie , Castillo Edward M. , Schwarz Lara , Brennan Jesse J. , Benmarhnia Tarik , Chan Theodore C.
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: Extreme heat events are increasing with climate change impacting human health. This study investigates the impact of extreme heat events on Emergency Department (ED) utilization by older adult patients. Materials and Methods: We conducted a study of all 324 non-federal hospital EDs in California during an 8-year period from data extracted from the California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI). The study utilized a time-stratified case-crossover design to investigate ED visited in patients aged 65 years and older during 1-day and 2-day heat wave events. Extreme heat temperatures were measured and weighted using historical data at the zip code level at the 95th, 97.5th, and 99th percentiles 2012 through 2019. Conditional logistical regression was used to estimate the odds of ED visits during extreme heat events compared to non-extreme heat days. Stratified analyses by age and comorbidity status were conducted. Results: During the study period, 8,744,001 of ED visits among older patients were included in the study analysis. Odds ratios (OR) increased for during 1-day heat events (95th percentile (OR = 1.023, 95%CI: 1.020, 1.027), 97.5th percentile (OR = 1.030, 95%CI: 1.025, 1.035), 99th percentile (OR = 1.039, 95%CI: 1.032, 1.058)) and more so with 2-day heat wave events (95th percentile (OR = 1.031, 95%CI: 1.026, 1.036), 97.5th percentile (OR = 1.039, 95%CI: 1.031, 1.046), 99th percentile (OR = 1.044, 95%CI: 1.032, 1.058)). Older patients with three or more comorbidities had the highest odds of ED visits (OR = 1.085, 95%CI: 1.068, 1.112) at the 99th percentile. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that ED visits increase for older patients during extreme heat events, particularly with event intensity and duration. Older patients with at least one comorbidity were at greater risk.
Quality of Life in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Pulmonary Vein Isolation: Short-Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: Linde Matiss , Jubele Kristine , Kupics Kaspars , Nikitina Anastasija , Erglis Andrejs
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly impacts the quality of life (QoL) of affected individuals. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has emerged as a therapeutic approach to manage AF and improve QoL. This study aimed to assess the QoL in patients with AF undergoing PVI. Methods and Materials: A total of 97 AF patients undergoing PVI (radiofrequency 52.6% (n = 51) and cryoablation 47.4% (n = 46)) at Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital were included in this study. QoL was measured using the 36-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-36) before PVI and during a follow-up period of 5.98 ± 1.97 months. Results: This study consisted of 60.8% (n = 59) males, with a mean age of 60.06 ± 11.61 years. A total of 67.0% (n = 65) of patients had paroxysmal AF, and 33.0% (n = 32) had persistent AF. The SF-36 questionnaire revealed major improvements across multiple QoL domains post-PVI, reaching a statistical significance of p < 0.01. Patient factors, such as female gender ([estimate 21.26, 95% CI (7.18, 35.35)], p < 0.01), persistent AF ([estimate 15.49, 95% CI (2.83, 28.15)], p = 0.02), and restored sinus rhythm ([estimate 14.35, 95% CI (1.65, 27.06)], p = 0.03), were associated with significantly improved QoL. Conclusions: PVI in patients with AF positively influences various dimensions of QoL, as evidenced by significant improvement across multiple SF-36 domains. These findings emphasize worsened QoL in patients with AF and the potential benefits of PVI enhancing the overall wellbeing of individuals with AF.
Impact of Constipation on Health Outcomes in Medically Hospitalized Patients: A Prospective Study on Laxative Use and Health Care Outcomes
Authors: Al Alawi Abdullah M. , Al Nou’mani Jawahar , Al Abri Nahid , Al Sabbri Maryam , Al-Maqbali Juhaina Salim
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: Constipation affects health-related quality of life and increases hospital visits. We conducted this prospective cohort study to assess laxative use, health outcomes of constipation in medically hospitalized patients, and related health outcomes. Materials and Methods: A prospective single-center study included all adult patients admitted under the General Internal Medicine Unit from 1 February 2022, to 31 August 2022. Constipation was defined using the Constipation Assessment Scale (CAS). Patients were assessed for 28 days during their hospital stay and up to 90 days post-discharge. Result: Among the included patients, 62.45% experienced constipation, which was associated with poor health outcomes including delirium (p = 0.048), intensive care admission (p < 0.01), cardiopulmonary arrest (p < 0.01), inpatient mortality (p < 0.01), longer hospital stay (p < 0.01), 90-day mortality (p < 0.01), and 90-day hospital readmission (p < 0.01). Laxative treatment was administered to only 33.93% of patients with constipation and was more commonly used among older patients (p < 0.01), those with high CAS scores (p < 0.01), longer hospital stays (p < 0.01), and critically ill patients (intensive care admission) (p = 0.01), as well as those who had cardiopulmonary arrest (p < 0.01) and high inpatient mortality (p < 0.01). Conclusions: This study identified several associations between constipation and poor health outcomes and highlighted the underutilization of laxatives in treating constipation. It is vital to interpret our results with caution. Therefore, we believe that a randomized controlled trial will help enhance our understanding of the interaction between constipation, laxative use, and poor health outcomes.