bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-Decade Retrospective Analysis of Endogenous Endophthalmitis in Spain and Mexico: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: de Esteban Maciñeira Elia , Bande Manuel F. , Soberanes-Pérez Jorge Ivan , Paniagua Laura , Golzarri Maria F. , Fromow-Guerra Jans , Blanco Teijeiro María José , Touriño Peralba Rosario
Published: August 2024

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate endogenous endophthalmitis (EE) in Spain and Mexico, focusing on microbial patterns, antibiotic resistance, infection sources, risk factors, and patient outcomes. Methods: Over 20 years, 705 endophthalmitis cases were reviewed, and we identified 78 cases of EE in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, and Mexico City, Mexico. Microbial etiology, infection sources, antibiotic resistance, and treatment outcomes were compared between patients from Spain and Mexico. Results: Among the 78 EE cases, 47 (60.25%) were from Spain and primarily had bacterial infections (57.1%, mainly Staphylococcus and Streptococcus). In contrast, 31 cases (39.74%) were from Mexico and had a higher prevalence of fungal infections, particularly Candida (47.1%). Diabetes mellitus was a significant risk factor, and was more common in Mexico (61.3%) than in Spain (37.0%). The Spanish cohort exhibited notable antibiotic resistance, especially in Staphylococcus. Treatment typically involved systemic and intraocular antibiotics, with vitrectomy performed in 61.5% cases. Post-treatment, bacterial infections had higher success rates (approximately 50%) compared with fungal infections (approximately 30%). Evisceration was necessary in 9% cases, and the overall mortality rate was approximately 4.4%; it was slightly higher in Mexico than in Spain. Conclusions: The study highlights significant regional differences in EE between Spain and Mexico, particularly regarding microbial etiology and antibiotic resistance. The findings emphasize the need to adapt healthcare practices to specific regions to improve EE treatment outcomes, underscoring the importance of ongoing research and interregional collaboration to better understand and manage this complex condition.
Comment on Chatwin et al. Waves of Precision: A Practical Guide for Reviewing New Tools to Evaluate Mechanical In-Exsufflation Efficacy in Neuromuscular Disorders. J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13, 2643
Authors: Allen Jodi , Clunie Gemma , Newman Helen , Slinger Claire
Published: August 2024

We read with interest the paper published by Chatwin et al [...]
Effect of Kinematic Chain Exercise Protocol on Throwing Performance and Shoulder Muscle Strength among University Shot Put Athletes—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kanakapura Chananke Gowda Vinod Kumar , Subramanian Shenbaga Sundaram , Mustafa Gaowgzeh Riziq Allah , Ahmed Alsenany Samira , Abdelaliem Sally Mohammed Farghaly , Saeed Alabdullah Amany Anwar , Afnan Alkhateeb M.
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: This study looks at how a kinematic chain exercise regimen that targets the lower, core, and upper body affects university shot put participants’ shoulder muscle strength and throwing efficiency. This study fills an apparent research void on shot put training approaches by presenting a comprehensive kinematic chain workout program. It was anticipated that this method would improve performance the most, considering the complex biomechanical requirements of the sport. Methods: Eighty athletes aged (19.87 ± 1.31 years), were assigned into two groups at random: experimental (n = 40) and control (n = 40). While the control group carried on with their usual training, the experimental group participated in an 8-week kinematic chain training program. Pre- and post-training evaluations were carried out to evaluate shot put-throwing ability, shoulder muscle strength, and participant satisfaction with the exercise regimen. Results: The analyses were performed to evaluate the between- and within-group effects in the 10-week intervention period using a two-way ANOVA. This study demonstrated that, when compared to the control group, the athletes in the kinematic chain program had significantly increased throwing distance (p = 0.01) and shoulder muscle strength (p = 0.01). Furthermore, there was a significant increase (p = 0.005) in the athletes’ satisfaction levels with the workout program among those in the experimental group. Conclusions: In shot put athletes, this study suggests that a kinematic chain-focused strategy can improve throwing performance and shoulder muscle strength. The findings suggest that incorporating kinematic chain workouts into shot put training programs could be beneficial. However, conclusions should be drawn with caution, and further research is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of kinematic chain-based approaches across various sports and to understand their broader implications in sports science.
Temperature Changes (ΔT) in Correlation with Number of Implant Osteotomy Preparations in Human Cadaver Tibiae, Comparing Osseodensification (OD) Burs in Clockwise (CW) versus Counterclockwise (CCW) Mode
Authors: Soldatos Nikolaos , Heydari Amanda , Horton LeRoy , Sarrami Shayda , Nordlie Luke , Choi Dongseok , Weltman Robin
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: OD burs are used in two different modes: (i) CW and (ii) CCW. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the ΔT during the preparation of implant osteotomies in a four-way interaction. (2) Methods: Three hundred and sixty osteotomies were prepared at 12 mm depth in human cadaver tibiae. The ΔT values were calculated similarly to the method used in two previous studies carried out by our group. Four different variables were evaluated for their effect on ΔT. (3) Results: A four-way interaction was observed in the CCW mode, allowing for 1000 RPM to have the least effect in both modes. However, in the CCW mode the use of 3.0 and 4.0 burs after 23 osteotomies showed a statistically significant increase in ΔT, and significant chatter, compared to the CW mode. In the CCW mode, the ΔT was increased significantly as the diameter of the burs increased in 800 and 1200 RPM. (4) Conclusions: The synergistic effect of drills’ diameter, CCW mode, 800 and 1200 RPM, and bur usage (over 23 times) had a significant effect on ΔT, which exceeded 47 °C. One thousand (1000) RPM had the least effect in both modes. The 3.0 and 4.0 burs in the CCW mode drastically increased the temperature and produced significant chatter.
Characterization of Trabecular Bone Microarchitecture and Mechanical Properties Using Bone Surface Curvature Distributions
Authors: Xiao Pengwei , Schilling Caroline , Wang Xiaodu
Published: August 2024

Understanding bone surface curvatures is crucial for the advancement of bone material design, as these curvatures play a significant role in the mechanical behavior and functionality of bone structures. Previous studies have demonstrated that bone surface curvature distributions could be used to characterize bone geometry and have been proposed as key parameters for biomimetic microstructure design and optimization. However, understanding of how bone surface curvature distributions correlate with bone microstructure and mechanical properties remains limited. This study hypothesized that bone surface curvature distributions could be used to predict the microstructure as well as mechanical properties of trabecular bone. To test the hypothesis, a convolutional neural network (CNN) model was trained and validated to predict the histomorphometric parameters (e.g., BV/TV, BS, Tb.Th, DA, Conn.D, and SMI), geometric parameters (e.g., plate area PA, plate thickness PT, rod length RL, rod diameter RD, plate-to-plate nearest neighbor distance NNDPP, rod-to-rod nearest neighbor distance NNDRR, plate number PN, and rod number RN), as well as the apparent stiffness tensor of trabecular bone using various bone surface curvature distributions, including maximum principal curvature distribution, minimum principal curvature distribution, Gaussian curvature distribution, and mean curvature distribution. The results showed that the surface curvature distribution-based deep learning model achieved high fidelity in predicting the major histomorphometric parameters and geometric parameters as well as the stiffness tenor of trabecular bone, thus supporting the hypothesis of this study. The findings of this study underscore the importance of incorporating bone surface curvature analysis in the design of synthetic bone materials and implants.
A Novel Multi-Dimensional Joint Search Method for the Compression of Medical Image Segmentation Models
Authors: Zheng Yunhui , Wu Zhiyong , Ji Fengna , Du Lei , Yang Zhenyu
Published: August 2024

Due to the excellent results achieved by transformers in computer vision, more and more scholars have introduced transformers into the field of medical image segmentation. However, the use of transformers will make the model’s parameters very large, which occupies a large amount of the computer’s resources, making them very time-consuming during training. In order to alleviate this disadvantage, this paper explores a flexible and efficient search strategy that can find the best subnet from a continuous transformer network. The method is based on a learnable and uniform L1 sparsity constraint, which contains factors that reflect the global importance of the continuous search space in different dimensions, while the search process is simple and efficient, containing a single round of training. At the same time, in order to compensate for the loss of accuracy caused by the search, a pixel classification module is introduced into the model to compensate for the loss of accuracy in the model search process. Our experiments show that the model in this paper compresses 30% of the parameters and FLOPs used, while also showing a slight increase in the accuracy of the model on the Automatic Cardiac Diagnosis Challenge (ACDC) dataset.
Conceptual Design and Dynamic Analysis of a Wind–Wave Energy Converter with a Mass-Adjustable Buoy
Authors: Shi Yifeng , Lin Jiahuan , Zhuge Zexin , Zheng Rongye , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2024

To reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for offshore wind turbines, a novel wind–wave energy converter (WWEC) with a mass-adjustable buoy is designed. To analyze the impact of buoy mass variations on the system, a coupled comprehensive numerical model is established to simulate the aerodynamics of the turbine and the hydrodynamics of the platform and buoy. It is found that the occurrence of the buoy out of water significantly reduces the output power. Adjusting the buoy’s mass with suitable strategy can prevent the impact of slamming loads and improve the power output. The mass adjustment strategy is determined based on the output power of the wave energy converter under regular wave conditions. It is found that the mass adjustment strategy can significantly enhance the output power of combined system. The buoy does not move out of the water under the extreme conditions, which avoids the impact of slamming loads on system stability. Moreover, mass-adjustable buoys can reduce the risk of mooring line failure compare to a wind turbine without a buoy.
AI-Driven Model Prediction of Motions and Mooring Loads of a Spar Floating Wind Turbine in Waves and Wind
Authors: Medina-Manuel Antonio , Molina Sánchez Rafael , Souto-Iglesias Antonio
Published: August 2024

This paper describes a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network model used to simulate the dynamics of the OC3 reference design of a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT) spar unit. It crafts an advanced neural network with an encoder–decoder architecture capable of predicting the spar’s motion and fairlead tensions time series. These predictions are based on wind and wave excitations across various operational and extreme conditions. The LSTM network, trained on an extensive dataset from over 300 fully coupled simulation scenarios using OpenFAST, ensures a robust framework that captures the complex dynamics of a floating platform under diverse environmental scenarios. This framework’s effectiveness is further verified by thoroughly evaluating the model’s performance, leveraging comparative statistics and accuracy assessments to highlight its reliability. This methodology contributes to substantial reductions in computational time. While this research provides insights that facilitate the design process of offshore wind turbines, its primary aim is to introduce a new predictive approach, marking a step forward in the quest for more efficient and dependable renewable energy solutions.
Beach Nourishment Protection against Storms for Contrasting Backshore Typologies
Authors: Oliveira Filipa S. B. F. , Fortunato André B. , Freire Paula
Published: August 2024

The protection against a storm event provided by nourishment to Costa da Caparica beaches near Lisbon, Portugal, is investigated numerically with a two-dimensional-horizontal morphodynamic model able to generate and propagate the longer infragravity waves. The beach has a groyne field and a multi-typology backshore. The nourishment of 106 m3 of sand was placed at the beach face and backshore. Pre- and post-nourishment topo-bathymetric surveys of the beach, which suffers from chronic erosion, were performed under a monitoring program. The morphodynamics of the pre- and post-nourished beach when exposed to a simulated historically damaging storm event and the post-storm morphologies were compared to evaluate the efficacy of the nourishment. Results indicate that the lower surface level of the beach face and backshore of the pre-nourished beach induces a larger erosion volume. The nourishment prevented the extreme retreat of the shoreline that occurred during the storm in the pre-nourished beach and reduced the storm-induced erosion volume by 20%, thus protecting the beach effectively against the storm. The beach backshore typology (seawall vs. dune) exerts differential influences on the sandy bottom. As a result, multi-typology backshores induce alongshore variability in cross-shore dynamics. The backshore seawalls exposed to direct wave action cause higher erosion volumes and a larger cross-shore extension of the active zone. The most vulnerable alongshore sectors of the beach were identified and related to the mechanisms responsible for the erosion phenomenon. These findings strengthen the importance of sand nourishment for the protection and sustainability of beaches, particularly those with a seawall at the backshore, where storm events cause higher erosion.
Enhancement of Underwater Images through Parallel Fusion of Transformer and CNN
Authors: Liu Xiangyong , Chen Zhixin , Xu Zhiqiang , Zheng Ziwei , Ma Fengshuang , Wang Yunjie
Published: August 2024

Ocean exploration is crucial for utilizing its extensive resources. Images captured by underwater robots suffer from issues such as color distortion and reduced contrast. To address the issue, an innovative enhancement algorithm is proposed, which integrates Transformer and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) in a parallel fusion manner. Firstly, a novel transformer model is introduced to capture local features, employing peak-signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) attention and linear operations. Subsequently, to extract global features, both temporal and frequency domain features are incorporated to construct the convolutional neural network. Finally, the image’s high and low frequency information are utilized to fuse different features. To demonstrate the algorithm’s effectiveness, underwater images with various levels of color distortion are selected for both qualitative and quantitative analyses. The experimental results demonstrate that our approach outperforms other mainstream methods, achieving superior PSNR and structural similarity index measure (SSIM) metrics and yielding a detection performance improvement of over ten percent.
Extraction of Underwater Acoustic Signals across Sea–Air Media Using Butterworth Filtering
Authors: Cui Tengyuan , Cao Xiaolong , Yang Yiguang , Tan Qi , Du Yuchen , Zhang Tongchang , Yuan Jiaqi , Zhu Zhenyuan , Yao Jianquan
Published: August 2024

Direct wireless communication through sea–air media is essential for constructing an integrated communication network that spans space, air, land, and sea. The amplitude of acoustically induced micromotion surface waves is much smaller than the noise interference in complex sea states, making the accurate extraction of these signals from the raw signals detected by an FMCW millimeter-wave radar a major challenge. In this paper, Butterworth filtering is used to extract underwater acoustic signals from the surface waves detected by radar. The physical processes of the channel were simulated theoretically and verified experimentally. The results demonstrate a fitting coefficient of 0.99 between the radar-detected water surface waves and the simulation outcomes, enabling the effective elimination of noise interference and the extraction of acoustically induced micromotion signals in environments with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of −20 dB to −10 dB. Experiments modifying frequency and linear frequency modulation have verified that the usable frequency range for underwater acoustic signals is at least 400 Hz, meeting the frequency requirements of Binary Frequency Shift Keying (2FSK) modulation encoding methods. This research confirms the accuracy of the simulation results and the feasibility of filtering and extracting underwater acoustic signals, providing a theoretical basis and an experimental foundation for building cross-media communication links.
An Adaptive Characteristic Model-Based Event-Triggered Sigmoid Prescribed Performance Control Approach for Tracking the Trajectory of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Jing , Qin Yichao , Rong Shaowei
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces an event-triggered sigmoid prescribed performance control method, enhanced by an adaptive characteristic model, for tracking the trajectory of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The AUV model is simplified into a function reliant solely on second-order parameter information through the use of characteristic modeling and a compression algorithm, which is then approximated by a neural network. We propose integrating prescribed performance control into event-triggered sliding mode control to accelerate convergence in AUV trajectory tracking. A novel prescribed performance function is employed in this integration, creating an event-triggered, non-singular terminal sliding mode control strategy. The stability of this controller is rigorously proven. This control strategy is not only robust against model uncertainties but also mitigates the jitter commonly associated with sliding mode control and the singularities from preset performance control due to sudden random disturbances. Comparative simulation experiments demonstrate that the proposed control method achieves superior control accuracy and a quicker response.
A Framework for Investment and Risk Assessment of Agricultural Projects
Authors: Vilani Leonir , Zanin Antonio , Lizot Mauro , Trentin Marcelo Gonçalves , Afonso Paulo , Lima José Donizetti de
Published: August 2024

Investment appraisal of agricultural projects (APs) is particularly demanding due to several factors. Namely, APs may have longer time horizons, higher external and internal volatility, and uncertainty caused by less control of production and external conditions (e.g., climatic conditions and market demand). Indeed, these APs may face high and different risks that should be managed properly. Nevertheless, both the literature and practice do not address such complexity and uncertainty conveniently. Thus, this research aimed to develop an integrative and easy-to-use framework to support the investment appraisal of APs, which goes beyond the traditional approach based on simple and deterministic models. This framework is based on an approach that includes several capital budgeting techniques integrating extended multi-index methodology (EMIM), Monte Carlo simulation (MCS), and real options analysis (ROA). This framework allows dealing with different risk and uncertainty scenarios and managerial flexibilities, which allow alternative and additional investment options. A simpler and easier approach can be particularly important for family agribusinesses, which usually do not use sophisticated decision-making tools. An AP in an agrosilvopastoral system (i.e., agriculture, livestock, forestry) was used to present and discuss the proposed methodology considering the relevance of such systems for sustainable agriculture and their higher risk and complexity when compared to traditional approaches. The main contribution of the framework is structuring a set of steps based on several tools to carry out investment appraisal in APs.
Ecological Risk Assessment of Saltwater Intrusion and Urban Ecosystem Management in Shenzhen City
Authors: Dong Rencai , Cai Yue , Chen Xueye , Wang Cunjin , Lian Anxin
Published: August 2024

With continued sea level rise and over-exploitation, saline water extends farther inland, causing changes in soil salinity and water quality and leading to permanent land salinization and ecosystem damage. Saltwater intrusion (SWI), causing numerous ecosystem problems and disasters, brings risk to urban ecosystems in coastal cities. Ecological risk, in the Greater Bay Area in China, should be assessed based on the effect of SWI status on ecosystem health. In this study, we built a new ecological risk-assessment model based on the geographic information system (GIS) technique and spatial data. At the conceptual level, four main stressors were identified based on literature reading and fieldwork. Four stress factors (SFs) were thoroughly investigated, namely, SF1: the intensity gradient immersed in saltwater; SF2: the mountain phreatic water supply; SF3: the salinity tolerance of urban greenbelt vegetation; and SF4: the supply capacity of irrigation water to suppress saline water. After a comprehensive evaluation using GIS and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), we mapped and assessed the ecological risk level of the urban greenbelt for the SWI. Our results showed that the area of urban green space affected by the SWI was approximately 49.31 km2, almost 12.05%. Ecological risk was sorted into five ranks: (1) very low risk 47.53%, (2) low risk 26.29%, (3) medium risk 22.92%, (4) high risk 2.45%, and (5) very high risk (0.8%). The ecological infrastructure of sponges should include freshwater conservation in coastal cities, and more attention should be paid to fresh groundwater discharge from coastal ecosystems in Shenzhen.
Exploring Lexical Bundles in the Move Structure of English Medical Research Abstracts: A Focus on Vocabulary Levels
Authors: Asano Motoko , Hirosuna Kensuke , Fujieda Miho
Published: August 2024

Research article abstracts, the second most-read part of research papers after titles, generally follow disciplinary conventions, which are often manifested in their language use. This study analyzed lexical bundles or multi-word sequences in move texts of a one-million-word corpus of English-language medical research article abstracts, with particular attention to vocabulary levels. The most frequent lexical bundles, such as “the primary end point was”, often occurred once per text and predominantly took part in realizing a move. The coverage of the first thousand New General Service List was 63.6% for the entire corpus but was around 80% for bundles in Move 3, describing principal results, and those in Move 4, evaluating the results. Many of the sequences were research-oriented bundles, used to express research contexts. The bundles were made up of relatively accessible word items, but the sequences occurred to realize highly specific research contexts. The findings suggest that becoming familiar with the bundle may need increasing awareness of disciplinary conventions such as guideline adherences and statistical procedures. This study may offer insights on the need for learners to familiarize themselves with these bundles.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea after COVID-19: An Observational Study
Authors: Popovici George-Cosmin , Georgescu Costinela-Valerica , Vasile Mihaela-Camelia , Vlase Constantin-Marinel , Arbune Anca-Adriana , Arbune Manuela
Published: August 2024

The risk factors of hospitalized COVID-19 and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) overlap. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of post-COVID-19 OSA in hospitalized adult patients from southeastern Romania. A follow-up study was conducted on patients hospitalized for COVID-19 at the Pneumology Hospital in Galati, Romania, between 2021 and 2022. OSA was evaluated using the Epworth and STOP-BANG questionnaires and nocturnal polygraphy monitoring. Out of 331 patients, 257 were evaluated for sleep apnea in the 12th week. The prevalence of severe OSA was 57.97%. Significant associations were found with male gender, an age over 60, obesity, and cardiovascular co-morbidities. Non-invasive ventilatory therapy (NIV) and a hygienic–dietary regimen were recommended based on severity following a control visit after a month. Developing strategies for diagnosing and monitoring sleep disorders, including home sleep apnea tests and patient education, are the next directions for post-COVID-19 management.
Screening and Validation of Leaf Width-Related Genes in Inbred Maize Lines
Authors: Lu Shi , Wang Qi , Yin Junqi , Zheng Shubo , Gao Tingting , Zhou Xudong , Zhang Jianxin , Xing Yuexian , Ma Yingjie , Wang Min , Zhou Delong , Lu Ming , Liu Wenguo , Wang Piwu , Zhang Zhijun
Published: August 2024

Leaf width is a key determinant of planting density and photosynthetic efficiency. In an effort to determine which genes regulate maize plant leaf width, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 1.49 × 106 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 80 sequenced backbone inbred maize lines in Jilin Province, China, based upon phenotypic leaf width data from two years. In total, 14 SNPs were identified as being significantly related to leaf width (p < 0.000001), with these SNPs being located on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. A total of five candidate genes were identified within a mean linkage disequilibrium (LD) distance of 9.7 kb, with a significant SNP being identified within the Zm00001d044327 candidate gene. RNA was then isolated from 12 different inbred maize lines from this GWAS study cohort and was used to conduct qPCR analyses which revealed significant differences in Zm00001d044327 expression among strains exhibiting significant differences in leaf width. Based on an assessment of EMS mutant lines harboring a conserved amino acid stop mutation and two non-synonymous mutations in Zm00001d044327 that exhibited a narrow leaf width, these data suggested that Zm00001d044327 is a key regulator of maize leaf width.
Anti-Corrosion Flocking Surface with Enhanced Wettability and Evaporation
Authors: Lu Die , Ni Jing , Zhang Zhen , Feng Kai
Published: August 2024

The corrosion protection of tool steel surfaces is of significant importance for ensuring cutting precision and cost savings. However, conventional surface protection measures usually rely on toxic organic solvents, posing threats to the environment and human health. In this regard, an integrated process of laser texturing and electrostatic flocking is introduced as a green anti-corrosion method on a high-speed steel (HSS) surface. Drawing from the principles of textured surface energy barrier reduction and fiber array capillary water evaporation enhancement, a flocking surface with a synergistic optimization of surface wettability and evaporation performance was achieved. Then, contact corrosion tests using 0.1 mol/L of NaCl droplets were performed. Contact angles representing wettability and change in droplet mass representing evaporation properties were collected. The elements and chemical bonds presented on the corroded surfaces were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results revealed that the flocking surface exhibited the lowest degree of corrosion when compared with smooth and textured surfaces. Corrosion resistance of the flocking surface was achieved through the rapid spread and evaporation of droplets, which reduced the reaction time and mitigated electrochemical corrosion. This innovative flocking surface holds promise as an effective treatment in anti-corrosion strategies for cutting tools.
Evaluating Optical Properties of Mixed-Phase 2D MoSe2/Poly(vinyl alcohol) Nanocomposite Film
Authors: Chhetri Suman , Nguyen Anh Tuan , Gaillard Nicolas , Lee Woochul
Published: August 2024

Highly solar light-absorbing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanocomposite films have garnered wide attention in fields such as flexible optoelectronics, solar energy harvesting, and photothermal therapy. However, fabricating PVA nanocomposite films with a broad spectrum of solar absorption using cost-effective and non-toxic nanofillers remains challenging. Herein, nanocomposite films of PVA incorporating various concentrations of mixed-phase 2D MoSe2 nanosheets (i.e., a combination of the 2H and 1T phase) were prepared using a solution casting technique. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows homogenous dispersion of MoSe2 nanosheets in the PVA matrix even at higher concentrations, while atomic force microscopy (AFM) reveals increasing surface roughness with increasing MoSe2 content, reaching a plateau after 20 wt%. With the increase in the concentration of MoSe2, the nanocomposite films exhibit interesting light absorption characteristics reaching their highest absorption (average 94.9%) at 40 wt% MoSe2. The incorporated mixed-phase MoSe2 nanosheets induce a significant change in the energy levels of the PVA matrix, which is reflected in the reduced optical band gap energy (2.63 eV) at 40 wt% MoSe2 against pure PVA (5.28 eV). The excellent light absorption of PVA nanocomposite films across the entire range from 250 nm to 2500 nm is attributed to the thin 2D structure of MoSe2 and the presence of its mixed phase.
Modulating Electrical Properties of Ti64/B4C Composite Materials via Laser Direct Manufacturing with Varying B4C Contents
Authors: Zhang Wenshu , Chang Hui , Dang Ning , Zhou Lian
Published: August 2024

The modulation of electrical properties in composite materials is critical for applications requiring tailored electrical functionality, such as electromagnetic shielding and absorption. This study focuses on Ti64/B4C composites, a material combination promising enhanced electromagnetic properties. Laser direct manufacturing (LDM) was utilized to fabricate coaxial samples of Ti64 blended with TiB and TiC in various mass ratios, with sample thicknesses ranging from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm. The electrical characterization involved assessing the dielectric and magnetic permeability, as well as impedance and reflectance, across a frequency spectrum of 2 to 18 GHz. The result reveals that TiC, when incorporated into Ti64, exhibits strong dielectric polarization and achieves a reflectivity as low as −40 dB between 7 and 14 GHz. Conversely, TiB demonstrates effective electromagnetic absorption, with reflectivity values below −10 dB in the frequency band of 8.5 to 11.5 GHz. The study also notes that a lower B4C content enhances electronic polarization and increases the dielectric coefficient, while higher contents favor ionic polarization. This shift can lead to a timing mismatch in the establishment of electron and ion polarization, resulting in a decreased dielectric coefficient. In addition, adjusting the B4C content in Ti64/B4C composites effectively modulates their electrical properties, suggesting a strategic approach to designing materials for specific electromagnetic functions.
Analyzing Higher-Order Curvature of Four-Bar Linkages with Derivatives of Screws
Authors: Wu Liheng , Cai Jianguo , Dai Jian S.
Published: August 2024

Curvature theory, a fundamental subject in kinematics, is typically addressed through the concepts of instantaneous invariants and canonical coordinates, which are pivotal for the generation of mechanical paths. This paper delves into this subject with a higher-order analysis of screws, employing both canonical and natural coordinates. Through this exploration, a new Euler–Savary equation is derived, one that does not rely on canonical coordinates. Additionally, the paper provides a comprehensive classification of the degenerate conditions of the cubic of stationary curves of four-bar linkages at rotational positions. A thorough examination of four-bar linkages in translational positions—the couple links translate instantaneously—is also presented, with analyses extending up to the sixth order. The findings reveal that the Burmester’s points at translational positions can be extended to Burmester’s points with excess one, provided that all pivot points are symmetrically distributed about the pole norm with the two cranks in corotating senses. However, the extension to Burmester’s points with excess two is not possible. Similarly, the Ball’s point with excess one does not progress to Ball’s point with excess two. The paper also highlights that the traditional method, which is based on canonical coordinates, is ineffective when the four-bar linkage forms a parallelogram. Fortunately, this scenario can be effectively analyzed using the screw-based approach. Ultimately, the results presented can also serve as analytical solutions for 3-RR platforms with higher-order shakiness.
Research on Scheduling Algorithm of Knitting Production Workshop Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Sun Lei , Shi Weimin , Xuan Chang , Zhang Yongchao
Published: August 2024

Intelligent scheduling of knitting workshops is the key to realizing knitting intelligent manufacturing. In view of the uncertainty of the workshop environment, it is difficult for existing scheduling algorithms to flexibly adjust scheduling strategies. This paper proposes a scheduling algorithm architecture based on deep reinforcement learning (DRL). First, the scheduling problem of knitting intelligent workshops is represented by a disjunctive graph, and a mathematical model is established. Then, a multi-proximal strategy (multi-PPO) optimization training algorithm is designed to obtain the optimal strategy, and the job selection strategy and machine selection strategy are trained at the same time. Finally, a knitting intelligent workshop scheduling experimental platform is built, and the algorithm proposed in this paper is compared with common heuristic rules and metaheuristic algorithms for experimental testing. The results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper is superior to heuristic rules in solving the knitting workshop scheduling problem, and can achieve the accuracy of the metaheuristic algorithm. In addition, the response speed of the algorithm in this paper is excellent, which meets the production scheduling needs of knitting intelligent workshops and has a good guiding significance for promoting knitting intelligent manufacturing.
An Advanced Technique for the Detection of Pathological Gaits from Electromyography Signals: A Comprehensive Approach
Authors: Lenkevitciute Karina , Ziziene Jurgita , Daunoraviciene Kristina
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the most appropriate advanced methods for distinguishing the gait of healthy children (CO) from the gait of children with cerebral palsy (CP) based on electromyography (EMG) parameters and coactivations. An EMG database of 22 children (aged 4–11 years) was used in this study, which included 17 subjects in the CO group and 5 subjects in the CP group. EMG time parameters were calculated for the biceps femoris (BF) and semitendinosus (SE) muscles and coactivations for the rectus femoris (RF)/BF and RF/SE muscle pairs. To obtain a more accurate classification result, data augmentation was performed, and three classification algorithms were used: support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbors (KNNs), and decision tree (DT). The accuracy of the root-mean-square (RMS) parameter and KNN algorithm was 95%, the precision was 94%, the sensitivity was 90%, the F1 score was 92%, and the area under the curve (AUC) score was 98%. The highest classification accuracy based on coactivations was achieved using the KNN algorithm (91–95%). It was determined that the KNN algorithm is the most effective, and muscle coactivation can be used as a reliable parameter in gait classification tasks.
Defining and Analyzing New Classes Associated with (λ,γ)-Symmetrical Functions and Quantum Calculus
Authors: Louati Hanen , Al-Rezami Afrah Y. , Darem Abdulbasit A. , Alsarari Fuad
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we introduce new classes of functions defined within the open unit disk by integrating the concepts of (λ,γ)-symmetrical functions, generalized Janowski functions, and quantum calculus. We derive a structural formula and a representation theorem for the class Sqλ,γ(x,y,z). Utilizing convolution techniques and quantum calculus, we investigate convolution conditions supported by examples and corollary, establishing sufficient conditions. Additionally, we derive properties related to coefficient estimates, which further elucidate the characteristics of the defined function classes.
An Improved Spider-Wasp Optimizer for Obstacle Avoidance Path Planning in Mobile Robots
Authors: Gao Yujie , Li Zhichun , Wang Haorui , Hu Yupeng , Jiang Haoze , Jiang Xintong , Chen Dong
Published: August 2024

The widespread application of mobile robots holds significant importance for advancing social intelligence. However, as the complexity of the environment increases, existing Obstacle Avoidance Path Planning (OAPP) methods tend to fall into local optimal paths, compromising reliability and practicality. Therefore, based on the Spider-Wasp Optimizer (SWO), this paper proposes an improved OAPP method called the LMBSWO to address these challenges. Firstly, the learning strategy is introduced to enhance the diversity of the algorithm population, thereby improving its global optimization performance. Secondly, the dual-median-point guidance strategy is incorporated to enhance the algorithm’s exploitation capability and increase its path searchability. Lastly, a better guidance strategy is introduced to enhance the algorithm’s ability to escape local optimal paths. Subsequently, the LMBSWO is employed for OAPP in five different map environments. The experimental results show that the LMBSWO achieves an advantage in collision-free path length, with 100% probability, across five maps of different complexity, while obtaining 80% fault tolerance across different maps, compared to nine existing novel OAPP methods with efficient performance. The LMBSWO ranks first in the trade-off between planning time and path length. With these results, the LMBSWO can be considered as a robust OAPP method with efficient solving performance, along with high robustness.
Quasi-Periodic and Periodic Vibration Responses of an Axially Moving Beam under Multiple-Frequency Excitation
Authors: Fang Xinru , Huang Lingdi , Lou Zhimei , Wang Yuanbin
Published: August 2024

In this work, quasi-periodic and periodic vibration responses of an axially moving beam are analytically investigated under multiple-frequency excitation. The governing equation is transformed into a nonlinear differential equation by applying the Galerkin method. A double multiple-scales method is used to study the quasi-periodic and periodic vibrations of an axially moving beam with varying velocity and external excitation. Time traces and phase-plane portraits of quasi-periodic and periodic vibrations are obtained, which are in excellent agreement with those of the direct time integration method. The response frequencies of the axially moving beam are determined through the fast Fourier transform (FFT) method. The frequency–amplitude responses of the beam are analytically obtained and its stability is also determined. Lastly, the effects of system parameters on the quasi-periodic and periodic vibration are analyzed.
Global Existence of Solutions to a Free Boundary Problem for Viscous Incompressible Magnetohydrodynamics for Small Data
Authors: Kacprzyk Piotr , Zaja̧czkowski Wojciech M.
Published: August 2024

The motion of viscous incompressible magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) is considered in a domain that is bounded by a free surface. The motion interacts through the free surface with an electromagnetic field located in a domain exterior to the free surface and bounded by a given fixed surface. Some electromagnetic fields are prescribed on this fixed boundary. On the free surface, jumps in the magnetic and electric fields are assumed. The global existence of solutions to this problem assuming appropriate smallness conditions on the initial and boundary data is proved.
The Multi-Objective Shortest Path Problem with Multimodal Transportation for Emergency Logistics
Authors: Guo Jinzuo , Liu Hongbin , Liu Tianyu , Song Guopeng , Guo Bo
Published: August 2024

The optimization of emergency logistical transportation is crucial for the timely dispatch of aid and support to affected areas. By incorporating practical constraints into emergency logistics, this study establishes a multi-objective shortest path mixed-integer programming model based on a multimodal transportation network. To solve multi-objective shortest path problems with multimodal transportation, we design an ideal point method and propose a procedure for constructing the complete Pareto frontier based on the k-shortest path multi-objective algorithm. We use modified Dijkstra and Floyd multimodal transportation shortest path algorithms to build a k-shortest path multi-objective algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed multimodal transportation shortest path algorithm is verified using empirical experiments carried out on test sets of different scales and a comparison of the runtime using a commercial solver. The results show that the modified Dijkstra algorithm has a runtime that is 100 times faster on average than the modified Floyd algorithm, which highlights its greater applicability in large-scale multimodal transportation networks, demonstrating that the proposed method both has practical significance and can generate satisfactory solutions to the multi-objective shortest path problem with multimodal transportation in the context of emergency logistics.
Results from a Nonlinear Wave Equation with Acoustic and Fractional Boundary Conditions Coupling by Logarithmic Source and Delay Terms: Global Existence and Asymptotic Behavior of Solutions
Authors: Choucha Abdelbaki , Boulaaras Salah , Allahem Ali , Alharbi Asma , Jan Rashid
Published: August 2024

The nonlinear wave equation with acoustic and fractional boundary conditions, coupled with logarithmic source and delay terms, is significant for its ability to model complex systems, its contribution to the advancement of mathematical theory, and its wide-ranging applicability to real-world problems. This paper examines the global existence and general decay of solutions to a wave equation characterized by coupling with logarithmic source and delay terms, and governed by both fractional and acoustic boundary conditions. The global existence of solutions is analyzed under a range of hypotheses, and the general decay behavior is established through the construction and application of an appropriate Lyapunov function.
Clinical Characteristics of Patients with De Novo Parkinson’s Disease and a Positive Family History
Authors: Kim Hyunsoo , Choi Seong-Min , Lee Hak-Loh , Cho Soo Hyun , Kim Byeong C.
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: A family history of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an important risk factor for developing PD. Because only a few studies have investigated the clinical characteristics of PD patients based on family history, this study compared the clinical characteristics of PD patients with and without a family history of PD. Methods: The study involved 356 patients with de novo PD. The data on the patients’ PD family histories were obtained from the patients and their caregivers. Motor and non-motor PD symptoms were assessed using the appropriate scales. Results: Out of the 356 PD patients, 26 (7.3%) had a family history of PD. Compared with patients without a family history of PD, those with a family history of PD tended to be younger at diagnosis (67.9 years vs. 62.2 years, respectively; p = 0.009) and exhibited significantly more severe rigidity (p = 0.036). Motor subtype was not different between the PD patients with and without a family history. PD patients with a family history experienced significantly fewer falls/cardiovascular symptoms within the Non-Motor Symptoms Scale domains (p = 0.001) compared to their counterparts, although this was not statistically significant upon adjusting for age (p = 0.119). Conclusions: In de novo PD patients, having a family history of PD is associated with a younger age at diagnosis and more severe rigidity.
A Benzimidazole-Based N-Heterocyclic Carbene Derivative Exhibits Potent Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Effects against Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Al-Nasser Sarah , Abdulla Maha Hamadien , Alhassan Noura , Vaali-Mohammed Mansoor-Ali , Al-Omar Suliman , Hamdi Naceur , Elnakady Yasser , Matou-Nasri Sabine , Mansour Lamjed
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health issue. Although chemotherapy is the first-line treatment, its effectiveness is limited due to drug resistance developed in CRC. To overcome resistance and improve the prognosis of CRC patients, investigating new therapeutic approaches is necessary. Materials and Methods: Using human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT29) and metastatic CRC (SW620) cell lines, the potential anticancer properties of a newly synthesized compound 1-(Isobutyl)-3-(4-methylbenzyl) benzimidazolium chloride (IMBZC) were evaluated by performing MTT cytotoxicity, cell migration, and colony formation assays, as well as by monitoring apoptosis-related protein and gene expression using Western blot and reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction technologies. Results: Tested at various concentrations, the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of IMBZC on HT29 and SW620 cell growth were determined to be 22.13 µM (6.97 μg/mL) and 15.53 µM (4.89 μg/mL), respectively. IMBZC did not alter the cell growth of normal HEK293 cell lines. In addition, IMBZC inhibited cell migration and significantly decreased colony formation, suggesting its promising role in suppressing cancer metastasis. Mechanistic analyses revealed that IMBZC treatment increased the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins p53 and Bax, while decreasing the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, thus indicating the induction of apoptosis in IMBZC-treated CRC cells, compared to untreated cells. Additionally, the addition of IMBZC to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs (i.e., 5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin) resulted in an increase in the cytotoxic potential of the drugs. Conclusions: This study suggests that IMBZC has substantial anticancer effects against CRC cells through its ability to induce apoptosis, inhibit cancer cell migration and colony formation, and enhance the cytotoxic effects of conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. These findings indicate that IMBZC could be a promising chemotherapeutic drug for the treatment of CRC. Further research should be conducted using in vivo models to confirm the anti-CRC activities of IMBZC.