bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene Variants of the OAS/RNase L Pathway and Their Association with Severity of Symptoms and Outcome of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Perez-Favila Aurelio , Sanchez-Macias Sonia , De Lara Sergio A. Oropeza , Garza-Veloz Idalia , Araujo-Espino Roxana , Castañeda-Lopez Maria E. , Mauricio-Gonzalez Alejandro , Vazquez-Reyes Sodel , Velasco-Elizondo Perla , Trejo-Ortiz Perla M. , Montaño Fabiana E. Mollinedo , Castruita-De la Rosa Claudia , Martinez-Fierro Margarita L.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The interferon pathway plays a critical role in triggering the immune response to SARS-CoV-2, and these gene variants may be involved in the severity of COVID-19. This study aimed to analyze the frequency of three gene variants of OAS and RNASEL with the occurrence of COVID-19 symptoms and disease outcome. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 104 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, of which 34 were asymptomatic COVID-19, and 70 were symptomatic cases. The variants rs486907 (RNASEL), rs10774671 (OAS1), rs1293767 (OAS2), and rs2285932 (OAS3) were screened and discriminated using a predesigned 5′-nuclease assay with TaqMan probes. Results: Patients with the allele C of the OAS2 gene rs1293767 (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.15–0.83, p = 0.014) and allele T of the OAS3 gene rs2285932 (OR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.2–0.023, p = 0.023) have lower susceptibility to developing symptomatic COVID-19. The genotype frequencies (G/G, G/C, and C/C) of rs1293767 for that comparison were 64.7%, 29.4%, and 5.9% in the asymptomatic group and 95.2%, 4.8%, and 0% in severe disease (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our data indicate that individuals carrying the C allele of the OAS2 gene rs1293767 and the T allele of the OAS3 gene rs2285932 are less likely to develop symptomatic COVID-19, suggesting these genetic variations may confer a protective effect among the Mexican study population. Furthermore, the observed differences in genotype frequencies between asymptomatic individuals and those with severe disease emphasize the potential of these variants as markers for disease severity. These insights enhance our understanding of the genetic factors that may influence the course of COVID-19 and underscore the potential for genetic screening in identifying individuals at increased risk for severe disease outcomes.
Assessing Neighbourhood Preference: An Evaluation of Environmental Features within Small-Scale Open Spaces
Authors: Han Shuyan , Song Dexuan , Shi Feng , Du Hu , Zhang Yuhao , Yang Mingjun
Published: April 2024

Well-designed urban public spaces often attract residents and play a critical role in improving people’s wellbeing. Many studies have examined the importance of one or a few environmental features in urban public spaces, such as the size of the space, greenery coverage, seating arrangements, recreational facilities, etc. However, there is a lack of systematic understanding regarding (1) which environmental features have a significant impact on the usage of urban public spaces and (2) how these features influence people’s environmental preferences. To answer these questions, this investigation adopts a two-fold analytical structure: (1) first, an expert inquiry was conducted to evaluate the environmental features, and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was applied to determine the weight of each influencing factor; then, (2) on-site measurements were conducted across 104 spaces, accompanied by structured interviews with users of the spaces, based on which a decision tree analysis was employed to elucidate the decision-making processes of residents regarding their outdoor activities. The main findings of this investigation are as follows: (1) the site size, internal pedestrian flow, sky view factor, green-vision rate, and seat–circumference ratio are primary indicators affecting outdoor space usage, which are used in the objective evaluation index; (2) advantage value intervals for the sky view factor, green-vision rate, and seat–circumference ratio variables were calculated, and these three factors were found to significantly outweigh site size and internal pedestrian flow in terms of their effect on spatial preference. The interaction between the green-vision rate and seat–circumference ratio can affect the environmental preferences of residents: spaces with more seats exhibit lower requirements for greenery, while spaces with fewer seats should prioritise trees and greenery. Based on this study, an index based on influencing factors is proposed, enabling a better understanding of the environmental features affecting the usage of space. This study also provides valuable insights for future neighbourhood design through investigating the environmental preferences of residents, as well as the importance of various spatial features and their associated advantage value intervals.
Review of Urbanization-Associated Farmland Research in China: A Sustainability Perspective
Authors: Yang Qiqi , Pu Lijie , Huang Sihua
Published: April 2024

Farmland loss in drastically urbanizing landscapes has long been a research concern for resource management, landscape planning, and spatial governance, especially in the context of China. In recent years, the issue of urbanization-associated farmland loss (UAFL) seems to be increasingly recognized as relevant to sustainability. To date, however, existing studies have not yet comprehensively addressed the research gap between UAFL and sustainability. Here, we aim to help fill this knowledge gap by considering UAFL research as an example of the broader land/landscape-related literature, in a hope of informing future studies to better advance sustainability through land-related approaches. Specifically, we combined bibliometric analyses with code-based content analysis to reveal the knowledge base, thematic evolution, and historiographic paths of the literature on UAFL across China and the empirical case studies’ relevance to sustainability. Our main findings include: (1) the examined literature barely draws insights from sustainability science and sustainability only started to arise as a notable topic at around 2016; (2) over half of the empirical studies show awareness in advancing sustainability and interest in understanding the social-environmental drivers and processes underlying landscape dynamics, yet few demonstrate methodological transdisciplinarity; (3) those sustainability-relevant studies either frame UAFL as depletion of the farmland resource that may threat China’s food security and consequently hinder sustainable urbanization or frame UAFL as part of widespread landscape dynamics that affect the environmental outcome(s) or social–environmental tradeoffs of landscape multi-functions; and (4) existing empirical studies are disproportionately focused on 1991–2006, national, regional, and city scales, and some of China’s most developed areas. Our findings provide an overview of this specific research avenue on UAFL and, more importantly, point to the imperative for land/landscape scholars to break out of their disciplinary silos, especially in the natural sciences, to generate more actionable sustainability insights.
Artificial Intelligence: A Snapshot of Its Application in Chronic Inflammatory and Autoimmune Skin Diseases
Authors: Li Pomi Federica , Papa Vincenzo , Borgia Francesco , Vaccaro Mario , Pioggia Giovanni , Gangemi Sebastiano
Published: April 2024

Immuno-correlated dermatological pathologies refer to skin disorders that are closely associated with immune system dysfunction or abnormal immune responses. Advancements in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) have shown promise in enhancing the diagnosis, management, and assessment of immuno-correlated dermatological pathologies. This intersection of dermatology and immunology plays a pivotal role in comprehending and addressing complex skin disorders with immune system involvement. The paper explores the knowledge known so far and the evolution and achievements of AI in diagnosis; discusses segmentation and the classification of medical images; and reviews existing challenges, in immunological-related skin diseases. From our review, the role of AI has emerged, especially in the analysis of images for both diagnostic and severity assessment purposes. Furthermore, the possibility of predicting patients’ response to therapies is emerging, in order to create tailored therapies.
The Quest for Reliable Drought Stress Screening in Tetraploid Wheat (Triticum turgidum spp.) Seedlings: Why MDA Quantification after Treatment with 10% PEG-6000 Falls Short
Authors: Poggi Giovanni Maria , Corneti Simona , Aloisi Iris
Published: April 2024

Drought stress poses significant productivity challenges to wheat. Several studies suggest that lower malondialdehyde (MDA) content may be a promising trait to identify drought-tolerant wheat genotypes. However, the optimal polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000) concentration for screening seedlings for drought tolerance based on MDA quantification is not clear. The aim of this study was to verify whether a 10% (w/v) PEG-6000 concentration-induced water stress was reliable for discriminating between twenty-two drought-susceptible and drought-tolerant tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum spp. durum, turanicum, and carthlicum) accessions based on MDA quantification. To do so, its correlation with morpho-physiological traits, notoriously related to seedling drought tolerance, i.e., Seedling Vigour Index and Seedling Water Content, was evaluated. Results showed that MDA content was not a reliable biomarker for drought tolerance, as it did not correlate significantly with the aforementioned morpho-physiological traits, which showed, on the contrary, high positive correlation with each other. Combining our study with the cited literature, it clearly emerges that different wheat genotypes have different “water stress thresholds”, highlighting that using a 10% PEG-6000 concentration for screening wheat seedlings for drought tolerance based on MDA quantification is not reliable. Given the conflicting results in the literature, this study provides important insights for selecting appropriate methods for evaluating wheat seedling drought tolerance.
Bone Disease in HIV: Need for Early Diagnosis and Prevention
Authors: Schinas Georgios , Schinas Ioannis , Ntampanlis Georgios , Polyzou Eleni , Gogos Charalambos , Akinosoglou Karolina
Published: April 2024

The transformation of HIV into a manageable chronic condition has unveiled new clinical challenges associated with aging-related pathologies, including bone disease. This review explores the intricate relationship between HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART), and bone disease, highlighting the necessity of early diagnosis and preventative strategies to mitigate the increased risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis, and fractures in people living with HIV (PLWHIV). It synthesizes the current literature to elucidate the multifactorial etiology of bone pathology in this population, that includes direct viral effects, chronic immune activation, ART-associated risks, and the impact of traditional risk factors for bone loss. Through a critical examination of modern diagnostic methods, lifestyle modifications, evidence-based preventive actions, and pharmacological treatments, the necessity for comprehensive management is highlighted, along with recommendations for integrated healthcare approaches vital for achieving optimal patient outcomes. By advocating for a proactive, patient-centered, and multidisciplinary strategy, this review proposes a plan to integrate bone health into standard HIV care through active risk identification, vigilant screening, effective preventive measures, tailored treatments, and informed decision-making, in an effort to ultimately enhance the quality of life for PLWHIV.
The Effect of Lubricant’s Viscosity on Reducing the Frictional-Induced Fluctuation on the Onset of Friction
Authors: Liu Shutian , Lv Juncheng , Liu Chuanbo
Published: April 2024

The initial friction stage between the contacting materials would generate a maximum shear force and an unstable fluctuating time, which had a negative effect on the entire frictional system, especially at low temperature conditions. In order to decrease the occurring shear force and fluctuating time on the onset of friction, two different lubricating oils were applied in this study to investigate the influence of lubricant’s viscosity on these friction behaviors. The frictional experiments were conducted between the steel ball and the 40CrMnMo, and special attention was paid to the relationship between maximum friction force, fluctuating time, frictional vibration and the initial lubricant temperature. The results showed that the friction force first increased to the maximum value and then experienced an oscillation damping period (fluctuating time) before it reached a stable state. And this fluctuating behavior caused corresponding vibrations on the initial contacting. However, compared to the high viscosity lubricating oil (HO), the low viscosity lubricating oil (LO) contributed to more than 50% reductions on max friction force, fluctuating time and vibration at the cold start (0 °C). Moreover, the weakened initial frictional fluctuation was conducive to generating a low and stable friction coefficient (COF) and wear loss of the long-term test. The discrepancy on lubricating performance was that the low viscosity provided high fluidity, which allowed rapid distribution of the lubricant between the contacting surfaces and formed an intact lubricating film. Similarly, the high temperature decreased the viscosity of HO and thus led to satisfactory friction reductions. The knowledge gained herein provides a supporting theory on the design and preparation of a lubricating oil with high performance.
Effect of Testing Conditions on Low-Cycle Fatigue Durability of Pre-Strained S420M Steel Specimens
Authors: Mroziński Stanisław , Piotrowski Michał , Egner Halina
Published: April 2024

S420M steel subjected to strain-controlled low-cycle fatigue does not exhibit a period of cyclic properties stabilization. The maximum stress on a cycle continuously drops until fracture. For this reason, it is difficult to plan experimental research for different types of control in such a way that their results can be considered comparable. The aim of this paper is to present and discuss the results of tests conducted in various conditions of low-cycle fatigue of S420M steel specimens, both undeformed and pre-strained. In both loading conditions, after initial deformation, a significant change in the cyclic properties of steel described by the parameters of the hysteresis loop was observed. Also, the fatigue life of the pre-strained specimens appeared to be different from unstrained specimens and was affected by the test loading conditions. The reduction in life under controlled stress conditions was attributed to the increase in the extent of plastic deformation and stress and the occurrence of creep.
Regenerated Fiber’s Ideal Target: Comparable to Natural Fiber
Authors: Tan Guohongfang , Jia Tianshuo , Qi Zhenzhen , Lu Shenzhou
Published: April 2024

The toughness of silk naturally obtained from spiders and silkworms exceeds that of all other natural and man-made fibers. These insects transform aqueous protein feedstocks into mechanically specialized materials, which represents an engineering phenomenon that has developed over millions of years of natural evolution. Silkworms have become a new research hotspot due to the difficulties in collecting spider silk and other challenges. According to continuous research on the natural spinning process of the silkworm, it is possible to divide the main aspects of bionic spinning into two main segments: the solvent and behavior. This work focuses on the various methods currently used for the spinning of artificial silk fibers to replicate natural silk fibers, providing new insights based on changes in the fiber properties and production processes over time.
Preparation of Geopolymeric Materials from Industrial Kaolins, with Variable Kaolinite Content and Alkali Silicates Precursors
Authors: Martínez-Martínez Sergio , Bouguermouh Karima , Bouzidi Nedjima , Mahtout Laila , Sánchez-Soto Pedro J. , Pérez-Villarejo Luis
Published: April 2024

In the present work, the development of geopolymeric materials with Na or K based on industrial kaolin samples, with variable kaolinite content and alkaline silicates, is studied. XRF, XRD, FTIR and SEM-EDS have been used as characterization techniques. Three ceramic kaolin samples, two from Algeria and one from Charente (France), have been considered. In particular, chemical and mineralogical characterization revealed elements distinct of Si and Al, and the content of pure kaolinite and secondary minerals. Metakaolinite was obtained by grinding and sieving raw kaolin at 80 μm and then by thermal activation at 750 °C for 1 h. This metakaolinite has been used as a base raw material to obtain geopolymers, using for this purpose different formulations of alkaline silicates with NaOH or KOH and variable Si/K molar ratios. The formation of geopolymeric materials by hydroxylation and polycondensation characterized with different Si/Al molar ratios, depending on the original metakaolinite content, has been demonstrated. Sodium carbonates have been detected by XRD and FTIR, and confirmed by SEM-EDS, in two of these geopolymer materials being products of NaOH carbonation.
Effects of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet on 3D-Printed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Authors: Nastuta Andrei Vasile , Asandulesa Mihai , Spiridon Iuliana , Varganici Cristian-Dragos , Huzum Ramona , Mihaila Ilarion
Published: April 2024

Polymers are essential in several sectors, yet some applications necessitate surface modification. One practical and eco-friendly option is non-thermal plasma exposure. The present research endeavors to examine the impacts of dielectric barrier discharge atmospheric pressure plasma on the chemical composition and wettability properties of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene surfaces subject to the action of additive manufacturing. The plasma source was produced by igniting either helium or argon and then adjusted to maximize the operational conditions for exposing polymers. The drop in contact angle and the improvement in wettability after plasma exposure can be due to the increased oxygen-containing groups onto the surface, together with a reduction in carbon content. The research findings indicated that plasma treatment significantly improved the wettability of the polymer surface, with an increase of up to 60% for both working gases, while the polar index increased from 0.01 up to 0.99 after plasma treatment. XPS measurements showed an increase of up to 10% in oxygen groups at the surface of He–plasma-treated samples and up to 13% after Ar–plasma treatment. Significant modifications were observed in the structure that led to a reduction of its roughness by 50% and also caused a leveling effect after plasma treatment. A slight decrease in the glass and melting temperature after plasma treatment was pointed out by differential scanning calorimetry and broadband dielectric spectroscopy. Up to a 15% crystallinity index was determined after plasma treatment, and the 3D printing process was measured through X-ray diffraction. The empirical findings encourage the implementation of atmospheric pressure plasma-based techniques for the environmentally sustainable manipulation of polymers for applications necessitating higher levels of adhesion and specific prerequisites.
Synthesis and Characterization of Superhydrophobic Epoxy Resin Coating with SiO2@CuO/HDTMS for Enhanced Self-Cleaning, Photocatalytic, and Corrosion-Resistant Properties
Authors: Wang Zhongmin , Zhou Xiaoyu , Shang Yongwei , Wang Bingkui , Lu Kecheng , Gan Weijiang , Lai Huajun , Wang Jiang , Huang Caimin , Chen Zongning , Hao Chenggang , Feng Enlang , Li Jiacheng
Published: April 2024

The exceptional corrosion resistance and combined physical and chemical self-cleaning capabilities of superhydrophobic photocatalytic coatings have sparked significant interest among researchers. In this paper, we propose an economical and eco-friendly superhydrophobic epoxy resin coating that incorporates SiO2@CuO/HDTMS nanoparticles modified with Hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS). The application of superhydrophobic coatings effectively reduces the contact area between the metal surface and corrosive media, leading to a decreased corrosion rate. Additionally, the incorporation of nanomaterials, exemplified by SiO2@CuO core–shell nanoparticles, improves the adhesion and durability of the coatings on aluminum alloy substrates. Experimental data from Tafel curve analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) confirm the superior corrosion resistance of the superhydrophobic modified aluminum alloy surface compared to untreated surfaces. Estimations indicate a significant reduction in corrosion rate after superhydrophobic treatment. Furthermore, an optical absorption spectra analysis of the core–shell nanoparticles demonstrates their suitability for photocatalytic applications, showcasing their potential contribution to enhancing the overall performance of the coated surfaces. This research underscores the promising approach of combining superhydrophobic properties with photocatalytic capabilities to develop advanced surface modification techniques for enhanced corrosion resistance and functional properties in diverse industrial settings.
Delineating the Ultra-Low Misorientation between the Dislocation Cellular Structures in Additively Manufactured 316L Stainless Steel
Authors: Sun Fei , Adachi Yoshitaka , Sato Kazuhisa , Ishimoto Takuya , Nakano Takayoshi , Koizumi Yuichiro
Published: April 2024

Sub-micro dislocation cellular structures formed during rapid solidification break the strength–ductility trade-off in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF)-processed 316L stainless steel through high-density dislocations and segregated elements or precipitates at the cellular boundaries. The high-density dislocation entangled at the cellular boundary accommodates solidification strains among the cellular structures and cooling stresses through elastoplastic deformation. Columnar grains with cellular structures typically form along the direction of thermal flux. However, the ultra-low misorientations between the adjacent cellular structures and their interactions with the cellular boundary formation remain unclear. In this study, we revealed the ultra-low misorientations between the cellular structures in LPBF-processed 316L stainless steel using conventional electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), transmission Kikuchi diffraction (TKD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The conventional EBSD and TKD analysis results could provide misorientation angles smaller than 2°, while the resolution mainly depends on the specimen quality and scanning step size, and so on. A TEM technique with higher spatial resolution provides accurate information between adjacent dislocation cells with misorientation angles smaller than 1°. This study presents evidence that the TEM method is the better and more precise analytical method for the misorientation measurement of the cellular structures and provides insights into measuring the small misorientation angles between adjacent dislocation cells and nanograins in nanostructured metals and alloys with ultrafine-grained microstructures.
Change in Hydrogen Trapping Characteristics and Influence on Hydrogen Embrittlement Sensitivity in a Medium-Carbon, High-Strength Steel: The Effects of Heat Treatments
Authors: Tong Zhi , Wang Hantong , Zheng Wenyue , Zhou Hongyu
Published: April 2024

Medium-carbon, high-strength steels are widely used in the field of hydrogen energy because of their good mechanical properties, and they can be readily tailored by heat treatment processes such as the normalizing–tempering (N&T) and quenching–tempering (Q&T) methods. The hydrogen embrittlement (HE) susceptibility of a medium-carbon, high-strength steel was investigated utilizing microstructural characterization with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A study was also conducted on the steel’s hydrogen transport behavior as affected by the N&T and Q&T treatments. The steel contained more hydrogen traps, such as dislocations, grain boundaries, lath boundaries, and carbide interfaces, after the Q&T process, which was associated with a lower HE sensitivity when comparing the two treatments. In comparison, the N&T process produced larger-size and lesser-density carbides distributed along the grain boundaries, and this resulted in a relatively higher HE susceptibility, as revealed by the slow-strain-rate tensile (SSRT) tests of the hydrogen-charged steels and by the fractographic study of the fracture surface.
Research on Dynamic Response under the External Impact of Paper Honeycomb Sandwich Board
Authors: Lin Lehao , Hu Jingjing , Li Danyang , Zhang Gaimei , Liu Hui , Song Xiaoli , Lu Jiandong , Shi Jiazi
Published: April 2024

The dynamic mechanical behavior and cushioning performance of honeycomb sandwich panels, which are extensively employed in product cushioning packaging due to their exceptional energy absorption capabilities, were examined using a combination of experimental and numerical methods. Several factors, such as maximum acceleration–static stress, cushioning coefficient–static stress, and other curves, were analyzed under various impact conditions. The simulated stress–strain, deformation modes, cushioning coefficients, and other parameters demonstrate consistency with the experimental results. The acceleration, maximum compression, and cushioning coefficient obtained from the experiment and simulation calculation were 30.68 g, 15.44 mm, and 2.65, and 31.96 g, 14.91 mm, and 2.79, respectively. The results indicate that all error values were less than 5%, confirming the precision and reliability of the model. Furthermore, the model was utilized to simulate and predict the cushioning performance of honeycomb sandwich panels with different cell structures and paper thicknesses. These results provide a solid basis for enhancing the design of subsequent honeycomb element structures.
Modeling and Solution Algorithm for Green Lock Scheduling Problem on Inland Waterways
Authors: Wu Ziyun , Ji Bin , Yu Samson S.
Published: April 2024

Inland navigation serves as a vital component of transportation, boasting benefits such as ample capacity and minimal energy consumption. However, it also poses challenges related to achieving navigation efficiency and environmental friendliness. Locks, which are essential for inland waterways, often cause ship passage bottlenecks. This paper focuses on a green lock scheduling problem (GLSP), aiming to minimize fuel emissions and maximize navigation efficiency. Considering the realistic constraints, a mixed-integer linear programming model and a large neighborhood search solution algorithm are proposed. From a job shop scheduling perspective, the problem is decomposed into three main components: ship-lockage assignment, ship placement subproblem, and lockage scheduling subproblem coupled with ship speed optimization. A large neighborhood search algorithm based on a decomposition framework (LNSDF) is proposed to tackle the GLSP. In this, the complex lockage scheduling problem is addressed efficiently by mapping it to a network planning problem and applying the critical path method. Numerical experiments substantiate the effectiveness of our proposed model and a heuristic approach was used in solving the GLSPs. In the sensitivity analysis, under three different objective weight assignments, the resulting solutions achieved average effective ship fuel savings of 4.51%, 8.86%, and 2.46%, respectively. This indicates that our green lock scheduling problem considering ship speed optimization can enhance ship passage efficiency while reducing carbon emissions.
Using Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) for Tumor Cell Growth Modeling
Authors: Rodrigues José Alberto
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the applicability and performance of two prominent growth models, namely, the Verhulst model and the Montroll model, in the context of modeling tumor cell growth dynamics. Leveraging the power of Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs), we aim to assess and compare the predictive capabilities of these models against experimental data obtained from the growth patterns of tumor cells. We employed a dataset comprising detailed measurements of tumor cell growth to train and evaluate the Verhulst and Montroll models. By integrating PINNs, we not only account for experimental noise but also embed physical insights into the learning process, enabling the models to capture the underlying mechanisms governing tumor cell growth. Our findings reveal the strengths and limitations of each growth model in accurately representing tumor cell proliferation dynamics. Furthermore, the study sheds light on the impact of incorporating physics-informed constraints on the model predictions. The insights gained from this comparative analysis contribute to advancing our understanding of growth models and their applications in predicting complex biological phenomena, particularly in the realm of tumor cell proliferation.
On the Zeros of the Differential Polynomials φfl(f(k))n−a
Authors: Lu Jiantang , Xu Junfeng
Published: April 2024

Letting f be a transcendental meromorphic function, we consider the value distribution of the differential polynomials φfl(f(k))n−a, where φ(≢0) is a small function of f, l(≥2), n(≥1), k(≥1) are integers and a is a non-zero constant, and obtain an important inequality concerning the reduced counting function of φfl(f(k))n−a. Our results improve and generalize the results obtained by Xu and Ye, Karmakar and Sahoo, Chakraborty et.al, and Chen and Huang.
Adaptive Backstepping Time Delay Control for Precision Positioning Stage with Unknown Hysteresis
Authors: Li Zhifu , Li Jiawei , Weng Tao , Zheng Ziyang
Published: April 2024

Piezoelectric-actuated precision positioning stages are widely used in high-precision instruments and high-end equipment due to their advantages of high resolution, fast response, and compact size. However, due to the strong nonlinearity of hysteresis, the presence of hysteresis in piezoelectric actuators seriously affects the positioning accuracy of the system. In addition, it is challenging to identify the model parameters for hysteresis. In this paper, an adaptive backstepping time delay control method is proposed for piezoelectric devices system with unknown hysteresis. Firstly, the Bouc–Wen model is used to describe the hysteresis characteristics, and the model is interpreted as a linear term and a bounded uncertain hysteresis term. Then, the time delay estimation technique is used to estimate the hysteresis term of the Bouc–Wen model online, and the unknown parameters of the system and hysteresis model are obtained through adaptive updating laws. Furthermore, the stability of the control scheme is proved based on Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed control scheme are demonstrated by comparing it with two typical hysteresis compensation control algorithms through three different sets of input signals.
DAGOR: Learning DAGs via Topological Sorts and QR Factorization
Authors: Zuo Hao , Jiang Jinshen , Zhou Yun
Published: April 2024

Recently, the task of acquiring causal directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) from empirical data has been modeled as an iterative process within the framework of continuous optimization with a differentiable acyclicity characterization. However, learning DAGs from data is an NP-hard problem since the DAG space increases super-exponentially with the number of variables. In this work, we introduce the graph topological sorts in solving the continuous optimization problem, which is substantially smaller than the DAG space and beneficial in avoiding local optima. Moreover, the topological sorts space does not require consideration of acyclicity, which can significantly reduce the computational cost. To further deal with the inherent asymmetries of DAGs, we investigate the acyclicity characterization and propose a new DAGs learning optimization strategy based on QR factorization, named DAGOR. First, using the matrix congruent transformation, the adjacency matrix of the DAG is transformed into an upper triangular matrix with a topological sort. Next, using the QR factorization as a basis, we construct a least-square penalty function as constraints for optimization in the graph autoencoder framework. Numerical experiments are performed to further validate our theoretical results and demonstrate the competitive performance of our method.
Instance Segmentation of Sparse Point Clouds with Spatio-Temporal Coding for Autonomous Robot
Authors: Liu Na , Yuan Ye , Zhang Sai , Wu Guodong , Leng Jie , Wan Lihong
Published: April 2024

In the study of Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), the existence of dynamic obstacles will have a great impact on it, and when there are many dynamic obstacles, it will lead to great challenges in mapping. Therefore, segmenting dynamic objects in the environment is particularly important. The common data format in the field of autonomous robots is point clouds. How to use point clouds to segment dynamic objects is the focus of this study. The existing point clouds instance segmentation methods are mostly based on dense point clouds. In our application scenario, we use 16-line LiDAR (sparse point clouds) and propose a sparse point clouds instance segmentation method based on spatio-temporal encoding and decoding for autonomous robots in dynamic environments. Compared with other point clouds instance segmentation methods, the proposed algorithm has significantly improved average percision and average recall on instance segmentation of our point clouds dataset. In addition, the annotation of point clouds is time-consuming and laborious, and the existing dataset for point clouds instance segmentation is also very limited. Thus, we propose an autonomous point clouds annotation algorithm that integrates object tracking, segmentation, and point clouds to 2D mapping methods, the resulting data can then be used for training robust model.
Contravariant Curvatures of Doubly Warped Product Poisson Manifolds
Authors: Aloui Foued , Hui Shyamal Kumar , Al-Dayel Ibrahim
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we investigate the sectional contravariant curvature of a doubly warped product manifold ( fB×bF,g˜,Π=ΠB+ΠF) equipped with a product Poisson structure Π, using warping functions and sectional curvatures of its factor manifolds (B,g˜B,ΠB) and (F,g˜F,ΠF). Qualar and null sectional contravariant curvatures of ( fB×bF,g˜,Π) are also given. As an example, we construct a four-dimensional Lorentzian doubly warped product Poisson manifold where qualar and sectional curvatures are obtained.
Accuracy of Modified Johnson–Cook Modelling of the Blanking Process through Experimental and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Ben Said Lotfi , Kamoun Taoufik , Hentati Hamdi , Wali Mondher
Published: April 2024

Metal parts undergo a blanking test that involves experimentation with different process parameters across multiple levels. The presence of uncontrolled burrs (measured as Hbv) significantly affects the precise geometry of the blanked parts, making it a primary concern in precision blanking. Moreover, the maximum blanking force (Fmax) holds considerable significance, as it aids in forecasting fracture mechanisms and plays a pivotal role in the design of blanking tools. The aim of this study is to assess the predictive capabilities of an elasto-plastic model coupled with damage in capturing the behavior of sheet material during the blanking process. Additionally, integrating the rate-dependent aspect into the model is crucial for accurately modeling the mechanical behavior of sheet metal. Our focus remains on demonstrating the efficacy of the model in predicting blanking force and burr formation. The numerical model incorporates modified plasticity and damage Johnson–Cook models to achieve this objective, considering the combined effect of strain and strain rate fields in the sheet blanking process. Experimental validation proves the efficacy of the proposed model in accurately predicting blanking outcomes. The experimental results confirm the model’s capability to provide a consistent prediction of the blanking force and burr dimensions. In addition, it was proved experimentally that the sheet thickness has the most influence on Hbv and Fmax.
Summation Formulas for Certain Combinatorial Sequences
Authors: Chen Yulei , Guo Dongwei
Published: April 2024

In this work, we establish some characteristics for a sequence, Aα(n,k), including recurrence relations, generating function and inversion formula, etc. Based on the sequence, we derive, by means of the generating function approach, some transformation formulas concerning certain combinatorial numbers named after Lah, Stirling, harmonic, Cauchy and Catalan, as well as several closed finite sums. In addition, the relationship between Aα(n,k) and r-Whitney–Lah numbers is established, and some formulas for the r-Whitney–Lah numbers are obtained.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Lurbinectedin Administrated with Itraconazole in Cancer Patients: A Drug–Drug Interaction Study
Authors: Moreno Irene , Hernández Tatiana , Calvo Emiliano , Fudio Salvador , Kahatt Carmen , Martínez Sara , Iglesias Jorge Luis , Calafati Román Octavio , Pérez-Ramos Laura , Montilla Lola , Zeaiter Ali , Lubomirov Rubin
Published: April 2024

This open-label, two-part, phase Ib drug–drug interaction study investigated whether the pharmacokinetic (PK) and safety profiles of lurbinectedin (LRB), a marine-derived drug, are affected by co-administration of itraconazole (ITZ), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, in adult patients with advanced solid tumors. In Part A, three patients were sequentially assigned to Sequence 1 (LRB 0.8 mg/m2, 1-h intravenous [IV] + ITZ 200 mg/day oral in Cycle 1 [C1] and LRB alone 3.2 mg/m2, 1 h, IV in Cycle 2 [C2]). In Part B, 11 patients were randomized (1:1) to receive either Sequence 1 (LRB at 0.9 mg/m2 + ITZ in C1 and LRB alone in C2) or Sequence 2 (LRB alone in C1 and LRB + ITZ in C2). Eleven patients were evaluable for PK analysis: three in Part A and eight in Part B (four per sequence). The systemic total exposure of LRB increased with ITZ co-administration: 15% for Cmax, area under the curve (AUC) 2.4-fold for AUC0–t and 2.7-fold for AUC0–∞. Co-administration with ITZ produced statistically significant modifications in the unbound plasma LRB PK parameters. The LRB safety profile was consistent with the toxicities described in previous studies. Co-administration with multiple doses of ITZ significantly altered LRB systemic exposure. Hence, to avoid LRB overexposure when co-administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, an LRB dose reduction proportional to CL reduction should be applied.
Socioeconomic and Other Risk Factors for Retear after Arthroscopic Surgery for Nontraumatic Rotator Cuff Tear
Authors: Lee Jung Sub , Suh Kuen Tak , Shin Won Chul , Bae Jung Yun , Goh Tae Sik , Jung Sung Won , Choi Min-Hyeok , Kang Suk-Woong
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: Few studies have investigated the socioeconomic factors associated with retear after rotator cuff repair. This study aimed to identify the risk factors, including socioeconomic factors, for rotator cuff retear in patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 723 patients diagnosed with full-thickness rotator cuff tears who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair from March 2010 to March 2021. The outcome variable was rotator cuff retear observed on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography. Sex, age, obesity, diabetes, symptom duration, and tear size were the independent variables. Socioeconomic variables included occupation, educational level, type of medical insurance, and area of residence. We compared patients with and without retear and estimated the effects of the independent factors on retear risk. Results: The mean age of the patients, symptom duration, and tear size were 62.4 ± 8.0 years, 1.8 ± 1.7 years, and 21.8 ± 12.5 mm, respectively. The age, type of medical insurance, diabetes, tear size, and symptom duration differed significantly between patients with and without retearing (p < 0.05). Age, occupation, type of medical insurance, diabetes, initial tear size, and symptom duration significantly affected the risk of retear. Patients who performed manual labor had a significantly higher retear rate (p = 0.005; OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.23–3.11). The highest retear risk was seen in patients with Medicaid insurance (p < 0.001; OR, 4.34; 95% CI, 2.09–9.02). Conclusions: Age, initial tear size, and symptom duration significantly affect retear risk after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Occupation and type of medical insurance were also risk factors for retear. Socioeconomically vulnerable patients may be at a greater risk of retear. Proactive efforts are required to expand early access to medical care.
Removal of Methylene Blue Dye from Aqueous Solutions Using Polymer Inclusion Membrane Containing Calix[4]pyrrole
Authors: Nowik-Zajac Anna , Zawierucha Iwona , Lagiewka Jakub , Jaksender Karolina , Witt Katarzyna , Malina Grzegorz , Sabadash Vira
Published: April 2024

The effective purification of aqueous solutions of methylene blue dye was tested using polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) that contained cellulose triacetate (CTA) as a polymer base, o-nitrophenyl octyl ether (o-NPOE) as a plasticizer, and meso-tetra methyl tetrakis-[methyl-2-(4-acetlphenoxy)] calix[4]pyrrole (KP) as a carrier. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy were used to define the microstructure and surface of PIMs. Experimental results showed that, with an increased concentration of methylene blue in an aqueous solution, the removal percentage also increased. Further observation showed that the flux increased with the rise in the source phase pH values from 3 to 10. The carrier and plasticizer content in the membrane significantly influenced the membrane’s transport properties. The optimal composition of the membrane in percent by weight for KP was 74% plasticizer; 18% support, and 8% carrier. The maximum MB removal (93.10%) was achieved at 0.10 M HCl solution as the receiving phase. It was shown that the membrane with optimal composition showed good reusability and enabled the easy and spontaneous separation of methylene blue from aqueous solutions.
Mitochondrial–Stem Cell Connection: Providing Additional Explanations for Understanding Cancer
Authors: Martinez Pierrick , Baghli Ilyes , Gourjon Géraud , Seyfried Thomas N.
Published: April 2024

The cancer paradigm is generally based on the somatic mutation model, asserting that cancer is a disease of genetic origin. The mitochondrial–stem cell connection (MSCC) proposes that tumorigenesis may result from an alteration of the mitochondria, specifically a chronic oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) insufficiency in stem cells, which forms cancer stem cells (CSCs) and leads to malignancy. Reviewed evidence suggests that the MSCC could provide a comprehensive understanding of all the different stages of cancer. The metabolism of cancer cells is altered (OxPhos insufficiency) and must be compensated by using the glycolysis and the glutaminolysis pathways, which are essential to their growth. The altered mitochondria regulate the tumor microenvironment, which is also necessary for cancer evolution. Therefore, the MSCC could help improve our understanding of tumorigenesis, metastases, the efficiency of standard treatments, and relapses.
The Effect of the Barrier Layer on the Uniformity of the Transport Characteristics of AlGaN/GaN Heterostructures on HR-Si(111)
Authors: Yan Yujie , Liu Yangbowen , Xiong Guodong , Huang Jun , Yang Bing
Published: April 2024

The high transport characteristics of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures are critical components for high-performance electronic and radio-frequency (RF) devices. We report the transport characteristics of AlGaN/GaN heterostructures grown on a high-resistivity (HR) Si(111) substrate, which are unevenly distributed in the central and edge regions of the wafer. The relationship between the composition, stress, and polarization effects was discussed, and the main factors affecting the concentration and mobility of two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) were clarified. We further demonstrated that the mechanism of changes in polarization intensity and scattering originates from the uneven distribution of Al composition and stress in the AlGaN barrier layer during the growth process. Furthermore, our results provide an important guide on the significance of accomplishing 6 inch AlGaN/GaN HEMT with excellent properties for RF applications.
Current Insights into the Maturation of Epstein–Barr Virus Particles
Authors: Nanbo Asuka
Published: April 2024

The three subfamilies of herpesviruses (alphaherpesviruses, betaherpesviruses, and gammaherpesviruses) appear to share a unique mechanism for the maturation and egress of virions, mediated by several budding and fusion processes of various organelle membranes during replication, which prevents cellular membrane disruption. Newly synthesized viral DNA is packaged into capsids within the nucleus, which are subsequently released into the cytoplasm via sequential fusion (primary envelopment) and budding through the inner and outer nuclear membranes. Maturation concludes with tegumentation and the secondary envelopment of nucleocapsids, which are mediated by budding into various cell organelles. Intracellular compartments containing mature virions are transported to the plasma membrane via host vesicular trafficking machinery, where they fuse with the plasma membrane to extracellularly release mature virions. The entire process of viral maturation is orchestrated by sequential interactions between viral proteins and intracellular membranes. Compared with other herpesvirus subfamilies, the mechanisms of gammaherpesvirus maturation and egress remain poorly understood. This review summarizes the major findings, including recently updated information of the molecular mechanism underlying the maturation and egress process of the Epstein–Barr virus, a ubiquitous human gammaherpesvirus subfamily member that infects most of the population worldwide and is associated with a number of human malignancies.