bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vehicle Trajectory Prediction Method for Task Offloading in Vehicular Edge Computing
Authors: Yan Ruibin , Gu Yijun , Zhang Zeyu , Jiao Shouzhong
Published: September 2023

Real-time computation tasks in vehicular edge computing (VEC) provide convenience for vehicle users. However, the efficiency of task offloading seriously affects the quality of service (QoS). The predictive-mode task offloading is limited by computation resources, storage resources and the timeliness of vehicle trajectory data. Meanwhile, machine learning is difficult to deploy on edge servers. In this paper, we propose a vehicle trajectory prediction method based on the vehicle frequent pattern for task offloading in VEC. First, in the initialization stage, a T-pattern prediction tree (TPPT) is constructed based on the historical vehicle trajectory data. Secondly, when predicting the vehicle trajectory, the vehicle frequent itemset with the largest vehicle trajectory support is found in the vehicle frequent itemset of the TPPT. Finally, in the update stage, the TPPT is updated in real time with the predicted vehicle trajectory results. Meanwhile, based on the proposed prediction method, the strategies of task offloading and optimization algorithm are designed to minimize energy consumption with time constraints. The experiments are carried out on real-vehicle datasets and the Capital Bikeshare datasets. The results show that compared with the baseline T-pattern method, the accuracy of the prediction method is improved by more than 10% and the prediction efficiency is improved by more than 6.5 times. The vehicle trajectory prediction method based on the vehicle frequent pattern has high accuracy and prediction efficiency, which can solve the problem of vehicle trajectory prediction for task offloading.
Shaped-Based Tightly Coupled IMU/Camera Object-Level SLAM
Authors: Asl Sabbaghian Hokmabadi Ilyar , Ai Mengchi , El-Sheimy Naser
Published: September 2023

Object-level simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) has gained popularity in recent years since it can provide a means for intelligent robot-to-environment interactions. However, most of these methods assume that the distribution of the errors is Gaussian. This assumption is not valid under many circumstances. Further, these methods use a delayed initialization of the objects in the map. During this delayed period, the solution relies on the motion model provided by an inertial measurement unit (IMU). Unfortunately, the errors tend to accumulate quickly due to the dead-reckoning nature of these motion models. Finally, the current solutions depend on a set of salient features on the object’s surface and not the object’s shape. This research proposes an accurate object-level solution to the SLAM problem with a 4.1 to 13.1 cm error in the position (0.005 to 0.021 of the total path). The developed solution is based on Rao–Blackwellized Particle Filtering (RBPF) that does not assume any predefined error distribution for the parameters. Further, the solution relies on the shape and thus can be used for objects that lack texture on their surface. Finally, the developed tightly coupled IMU/camera solution is based on an undelayed initialization of the objects in the map.
Random Telegraph Noise Degradation Caused by Hot Carrier Injection in a 0.8 μm-Pitch 8.3Mpixel Stacked CMOS Image Sensor
Authors: Chao Calvin Yi-Ping , Wu Thomas Meng-Hsiu , Yeh Shang-Fu , Lee Chih-Lin , Tu Honyih , Huang Joey Chiao-Yi , Chang Chin-Hao
Published: September 2023

In this work, the degradation of the random telegraph noise (RTN) and the threshold voltage (Vt) shift of an 8.3Mpixel stacked CMOS image sensor (CIS) under hot carrier injection (HCI) stress are investigated. We report for the first time the significant statistical differences between these two device aging phenomena. The Vt shift is relatively uniform among all the devices and gradually evolves over time. By contrast, the RTN degradation is evidently abrupt and random in nature and only happens to a small percentage of devices. The generation of new RTN traps by HCI during times of stress is demonstrated both statistically and on the individual device level. An improved method is developed to identify RTN devices with degenerate amplitude histograms.
Multiaxial Fatigue Analysis of Connecting Bolt at High-Speed Train Axle Box under Structural Subharmonic Resonance
Authors: Feng Yaqin , Li Fansong , Shu Kang , Dai Huanyun
Published: September 2023

Based on the dynamic characteristics of the axle box front cover of high-speed trains in the subharmonic resonance state, the nonlinear single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) model was proved to be reasonable, and reasons for the ineffectiveness of the common prevention methods for preventing bolt failure were analyzed firstly. Then, dynamic stress of the bolt was simulated by innovatively adopting the linear method based on frequency response analysis. The stress simulation method was verified to be practical under the subharmonic resonance state by analyzing and comparing the experimental and numerical results of the bolted front cover. It was proved that the linear method was accurate enough to simulate the dynamic stress of bolts, which is of great engineering significance. In addition to the transverse resonance stress of bolts caused by drastic vertical vibration of the front cover, the tensile resonance stress at the root of the first engaged thread was too large to be neglected on account of the first-order bending modes of bolts. Next, equivalent stress amplitude of the multiaxial stresses was obtained by means of the octahedral shear stress criterion. Finally, fatigue life of bolts was predicted in terms of S-N curve suitable for bolt fatigue life analysis. It argued that the bolts were prone to multiaxial fatigue failure when the front cover was in subharmonic resonance for more than 26.8 h, and the fatigue life of bolts could be greatly improved when the wheel polygonization was eliminated by shortening the wheel reprofiling interval.
Insulator Abnormal Condition Detection from Small Data Samples
Authors: Wang Qian , Fan Zhixuan , Luan Zhirong , Shi Rong
Published: September 2023

Insulators are an important part of transmission lines in active distribution networks, and their performance has an impact on the power system’s normal operation, security, and dependability. Traditional insulator detection methods, on the other hand, necessitate a significant amount of labor and material resources, necessitating the development of a new detection method to substitute manpower. This paper investigates the abnormal condition detection of insulators based on UAV vision sensors using artificial intelligence algorithms from small samples. Firstly, artificial intelligence for the image data volume requirements was large, i.e., the insulator image samples taken by the UAV vision sensor inspection were not enough, or there was a missing image problem, so the data enhancement method was used to expand the small sample data. Then, the YOLOV5 algorithm was used to compare detection results before and after the extended dataset’s optimization to demonstrate the expanded dataset’s dependability and universality, and the results revealed that the expanded dataset improved detection accuracy and precision. The insulator abnormal condition detection method based on small sample image data acquired by the visual sensors studied in this paper has certain theoretical guiding significance and engineering application prospects for the safe operation of active distribution networks.
Old Dogs with New Tricks: Antiparasitic Potential of Structurally Diverse 5-Nitrofuran and 5-Nitrothiophene Imines and Acyl Hydrazones
Authors: Al Nasr Ibrahim S. , Koko Waleed S. , Khan Tariq A. , Schobert Rainer , Biersack Bernhard
Published: September 2023

Miscellaneous imines and acyl hydrazones were prepared from 5-nitrofuraldehyde and 5-nitrothiophene-2-carboxaldehyde. Their activities against Toxoplasma gondii and Leishmania major parasites were evaluated. Promising antiparasitic effects and selectivities were observed for certain acyl hydrazones and imines. Cobalt(II) and copper(II) complexes conserved the high anti-Toxoplasma activities of 3-hydroxy-2-naphthoic carboxyl hydrazone (2a). In addition, sound activities against L. major promastigotes were observed for various analogs of 2a (2b and 2i) and pyrid-2-ylpyrazole-based imines (3g and 3h). Relatively low toxicities to kidney cells and macrophages indicate promising selectivity profiles for these compounds.
Study and Property Characterization of LiMn2O4 Synthesized from Octahedral Mn3O4
Authors: Wang Hao , Wang Jiawei , Wang Haifeng , Wang Song , Dong Xinyu , Hao Wenhao , Lu Ju , Lu Fanghai
Published: September 2023

The structure of Mn3O4 with an octahedron structure was similar to that of LiMn2O4, and the lithium manganate prepared with it had good electrochemical performance. During the preparation of octahedron Mn3O4, the effects of the pH regulator, temperature, and reaction pH on its morphology, specific surface area, and other properties were studied in this paper. LiMn2O4 was prepared from Octahedron Mn3O4 obtained by using better technology. The effects of calcination time and temperature on the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of LiMn2O4 were studied. The research results indicated that the optimal synthesis conditions for Mn3O4 were as follows: ammonia water was used as a pH regulator and complexing agent, reaction pH was 8, reaction temperature was 80 °C, reaction time was 12 h, and oxygen flow rate was 3 L∙min−1. The LiMn2O4 synthesized had a good octahedron morphology when the calcination temperature was 800 °C and the calcination time was 10 h. The first discharge-specific capacity was 121.9 mAh∙g−1 at a current density of 0.2 C, the discharge-specific capacity was 114.1 mAh∙g−1 after 100 cycles, and the capacity retention rate was 93.6%. Therefore, the lithium manganate prepared by using octahedron manganous oxide had good electrochemical reversibility and a good application prospect.
Spatial–Temporal Evolution of Interprovincial Ecological Efficiency and Its Determinants in China: A Super-Efficiency SBM Model Approach
Authors: Liu Ying , Tian Lei , Wang Zhiyi , He Peiyong , Li Meng , Wang Na , Yu Yang
Published: September 2023

This study delves into the temporal–spatial variations and influencing factors of interprovincial ecological efficiency in China, aiming to provide vital guidance for sustainable development and ecological equilibrium. Employing the super-efficiency SBM model, we compute ecological efficiency indices for 31 Chinese provinces from 2005 to 2021. Furthermore, utilizing Geodetectors, we conduct an in-depth analysis of the impact of key dimensions—economic factors, efficiency elements, environmental governance, pollution determinants, input factors, and natural components—consisting of 30 specific indicators of ecological efficiency. The findings unveil several significant insights. Firstly, interprovincial ecological efficiency in China has experienced undulating declines since 2005. Additionally, notable spatial agglomeration exists, with economically developed regions demonstrating elevated ecological efficiency, while less-developed areas exhibit lower levels. Moreover, among the influencing factors, (1) economic aspects hold a dominant role, where optimizing industrial structure and enhancing resource utilization efficiency can partially alleviate environmental pressure; (2) efficiency elements exhibit a progressive enhancement trend; (3) the impacts of environmental governance and pollution factors manifest complex dynamics, necessitating continuous policy support and comprehensive remediation; (4) despite the relatively weaker influence of natural components, vigilance remains imperative due to intensifying climate change and natural disasters; and (5) while input factors exert limited effects on ecological efficiency, their significance in resource allocation and sustainable development persists.
Regional Marketization and Corporate Wastewater Treatment Activities: From the Perspective of Government Intervention
Authors: Li Zhengrui , Du Xueting , Zhong Weihua
Published: September 2023

The government affects the sewage discharge behavior of enterprises through intervention behavior, which reflects the viewpoint of institutional theory. However, at the same time, whether regional marketization can also motivate enterprises’ sewage treatment behavior poses a challenge to this view. Therefore, theoretical models are established, objective data are collected, and empirical studies are conducted to explore the relationship between regional marketization and the sewage treatment behavior of enterprises. The results show that the higher the marketization level, the lower the wastewater treatment rate of the firm. Further research shows that the government’s attention to the local environment can significantly weaken the relationship between the marketization level and the corporate wastewater treatment behavior. This study provides experience and analysis for policy makers and firms to better control wastewater pollution.
Dynamic Evolution and Trend Prediction in Coupling Coordination between Energy Consumption and Green Development in China
Authors: Xu Xiaoying , Tian Xinxin
Published: September 2023

In light of the pressing concerns about worldwide warming and environmental degradation, understanding the nexus between energy consumption and green development has become vital to fostering a low-carbon transition in energy consumption, and promoting environmentally friendly development. After exploring the connotations of energy consumption and green development, this paper constructed evaluation systems for energy consumption and green development. By leveraging quantitative methods; such as the entropy method, coupling coordination model, spatial Markov model, and gray model GM (1, 1); we conducted an empirical study into the dynamism and evolutionary trends in the coupling coordination degree between energy consumption and green development in China, spanning from 2006 to 2020. Our findings delineate several key trends: (1) overall, the levels of each system have witnessed a marked increase, with the average energy consumption slightly exceeding that of green development; (2) the coupling coordination degree has displayed a consistent rise over time, with spatial distribution patterns exhibiting a “higher in the south, lower in the north” and a “center-edge” characteristic; (3) the dynamic evolution of coupling coordination types manifests a stability, continuity, and heterogeneity, eliciting distinct effects across different neighbourhood types; (4) within the forecast period, the coupling coordination degree among Chinese provinces is projected to undergo further enhancement, with the majority of provinces transitioning from a barely coordinated stage to a coordinated development stage. Above all, to stimulate a more qualitative coupling coordination between energy consumption and green development, this paper provides relevant policy implications.
The Food Systems, One Health, and Resilience (FOR) Approach—Led by the FOR-Runners
Authors: Nitzan Dorit , Andreuzza Bindu Nishal , Chattopadhyay Deepanwita
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic, adverse effects of climate change, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and other threats have been calling on all relevant stakeholders from varied disciplines to collaborate via the One Health approach, addressing the health of people, animals, plants, and their shared environment. This narrative review examines the need to add two more dimensions to the One Health approach: food systems and resilience, thus laying down the foundation of the Food System, One Health, and Resilience (FOR) approach. By doing so, all FOR approach elements would benefit from collaborative, multisectoral, transdisciplinary, planet-based, and system-focused efforts. Addressing more comprehensive determinants that positively impact resilience and sustainability would upgrade the One Health approach. We share some examples of academic institutions and innovation hubs that use this approach to improve access to adequate, safe, nutritious, and sustainable diets for all on our planet. We call on other FOR stakeholders, including governing institutions, to embrace the FOR approach and join the “FOR-runners”. It is suggested to widen the FOR community by including the doers, the food system’s workers, and consumers and to create the needed common grounds to drive for solutions rooted in equitable, just, locally tailored, inclusive, and sustainable solutions that withstand emergencies.
Ebike Sharing vs. Bike Sharing: Demand Prediction Using Deep Neural Networks and Random Forests
Authors: Schnieder Maren
Published: September 2023

Background: Conventional bike sharing systems are frequently adding electric bicycles. A major question now arises: Does the bike sharing system have a sufficient number of ebikes available, and are there customers who prefer to use an ebike even though none are available? Methods: Trip data from three different bike sharing systems (Indego in Philadelphia, Santander Cycles in London, and Metro in Los Angeles and Austin) have been used in this study. To determine if an ebike was available at the station when a customer departed, an algorithm was created. Using only those trips that departed while an ebike was available, a random forest classifier and deep neural network classifier were used to predict whether the trip was completed with an ebike or not. These models were used to predict the potential demand for ebikes at times when no ebikes were available. Results: For the system with the highest prediction accuracy, Santander Cycles in London, between 21% and 27% of the trips were predicted to have used an ebike if one had been available. The most important features were temperature, distance, wind speed, and altitude difference. Conclusion: The prediction methods can help bike sharing operators to estimate the current demand for ebikes.
A Study on the Priority Selection Method for Underground Dam Installation Considering Humanities and Social Factors Using Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process in Korea
Authors: Choi Jung-Ryel , Sung Jang Hyun , Kang Dong-Ho , Choo Kyung-Su , Kim Byung-Sik
Published: September 2023

Most of Korea’s precipitation is concentrated between June and September, and 65% of the country’s territory is covered with mountains, which means there is less time for rainfall to reach the surface. These hydrological characteristics pose challenges in securing and managing water resources. Moreover, the Yeongdong Area of Gangwon Province does not easily allow the construction of reservoirs and dams, which adds to the difficulty of developing structural measures to address water shortage caused by water supply restrictions. One measure proposed for addressing damage to residents, as well as social conflicts caused by water shortages, is to use underground dams and other high-capacity underground facilities to secure water for Korea’s eastern coastal areas. Unlike dams and reservoirs above the ground, underground dams are not affected by floods and offer an eco-friendly way to address the continuous water demand growth by storing water in underground spaces. This study prioritizes underground dam sites in six areas in the Yeongdong Area of Gangwon Province (Goseong, Sokcho, Yangyang, Gangneung, Donghae, and Samcheok) by conducting an expert survey and analyzing the results with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy AHP. The findings indicate that the Sangcheon River in Sokcho, where an underground dam already exists, satisfies the criteria proposed in this study. We expect the study’s findings and methods to be used to determine suitable dam sites and water resource management plans.
Strategic Predetermination of Special Military Operations in the World Supersystem
Authors:   MGIMO University, Ageev Alexander ,   MEPhI,   International Research Institute for Advanced Systems, Loginov Evgenii ,   Institute for Economic Strategies,   Central Economics and Mathematics Institute of the RAS
Published: September 2023

Different interpretations of Russia’s Special Military Operation in Ukraine, as a rule, do not reveal the systemic nature of such operations as a universal tool for resolving accumulated contradictions in the world community and critical disproportions in the global economy. In this regard, it seems necessary to give analysis of the strategic predetermination of special military operations in the world supersystem as a fundamental pattern of maintaining the controllability of society in its many manifestations at the present stage. Basically the matter is determined by new management methodology.
On New Mechanisms for Providing Economic Growth in the Context of Sanctions
Authors:   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Ershov Mikhail
Published: September 2023

First the pandemic and then geopolitical tensions in the world created new conditions and posed new challenges for the economies. Among the mechanisms, needed to finance increased government spending, many countries have begun to apply the approaches of the so-called Modern Monetary Theory. It seems that the use of its elements could also be expedient in Russia to finance the necessary transformation of the economy.
Import Substitution of the Culture of Measurements
Authors:   TMS RUS, Bashnin Alexander , Ozols Oscar ,   TMS RUS
Published: September 2023

World turbulence has accelerated trends towards cultural changes that emerged at the end of the last century. Today transformation of traditional management forms, corresponding to changing cultural models, is adequate neither to the essence nor the pace of the new reality formation. It’s high time to start thinking about inevitability of losing the comfort of managing an enterprise as a profit-making machine. The well-known postulate “what cannot be measured cannot be controlled” raises a new question: what and how to measure? Possible way out could be the return to corporations of diversity and complexity on the basis of the theory of fractal sets, and allocation of natural processes outside the Euclid and Newton metrics could become the foundation of a selforganization.
Outcomes of Russia’s Strategic Development in January-April 2023 are Better than Pessimistic Forecasts
Authors:   Institute of Economy of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Frenkel Alexander , Tikhomirov Boris ,   Institute of Economy of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Surkov Anton ,   Institute of Economy of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: September 2023

The author dwells on the change in the market index of “Economic Strategies” (MIES) for the first four months of 2023. Contribution of supply and demand indicators to the MIES is assessed. Analysis of industrial production is carried out.
IDENTIFICATION OF HETERORRHINA SAEEDI SP.NOV. (SCARABAEIDAE: COLEOPTERA) FROM SINDH REGION, PAKISTAN
Authors: Mahar Mehtab Ali , Panhwar Waheed Ali , Shaikh Abdul Manan
Published: September 2023

Genus Heterorrhina  belongs to subfamily Cetoniinae. They  diurnal by nature and are called fruit beetles and flower chafers. They are frequent visitiors of flowers for nectar from  pollen for their nutritional requirements. Meanwhile, few of their species feed on fruits. They are bright or glassy green in appearance and somehow reddish at angles, measuring 2 - 3 cm long.  During the present study, a total of 19 specimens were collected during April 2021 to March 2022. The sampling were collected from four ecological zones of Sindh province i-e: Southern irrigated plain, Dry western plateau, Indus Delta and Sandy Desert. The specimens were sorted out into genus Heterorrhina (Westwood, 1842) with single species i.e., Heterorrhina saeedi nov.spp . Beside this, morphological descriptions, photographs, ecological account and GIS mapping of the species are given.
STUDIES ON THE MORPHOLOGY AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF STORED GRAIN WEEVILS SITOPHILUS (CURCULIONIDAE: COLEOPTERA) FROM KHAIRPUR, SINDH-PAKISTAN
Authors: Suhriani Shahnoor , Panhwar Waheed Ali , Shaikh Abdul Manan
Published: September 2023

In this paper, Sitophilus oryzae, Sitophilus zeamais, and Sitophilus granarius, three economically significant grain pests are thoroughly analyzed in terms of their morphological and molecular differences. The work provides critical insights into species identification, genetic differentiation, and adaptation by contrasting conventional morphological features and genetic approaches. The samples were collected from eight talukas of district Khairpur: Kingri, Kot Deji, Khairpur, Gamabat, Mirwah, Sobhodero, Nara, and Faizganj during the year 2018-2022. The samples were identified on the basis of morphology and extraction of DNA was done. The samples were sent for sequencing.  The findings provide important evolutionary insights and aid in pest management. Additionally, the text describes the distinguishing physical characteristics of mature Sitophilus granarius, maize weevils, and rice weevils, emphasising size, colour, markings, and anatomical aspects. Understanding the differences among various weevil species is made easier by this information.
Sodiophilic V
2
O
3
-Inducing Layer for Long Lifespan and Dendrite-Free Sodium Metal Anodes
Authors: Chen Kaizhi , Xia Xianming , Ma Huaguang , Xu Shitan , Yao Yu , Rui Xianhong , Yu Yan
Published: September 2023

Because of the superiority of low cost and high theoretical capacity, sodium metal batteries are considered an attractive option for high energy storage. However, the uncontrollable and random deposition of Na tends to expedite the formation of Na dendrites and increases the risk of thermal runaway. The method of preplant sodiophilic sites can induce the lateral deposition of Na instead of sharp dendrite emergence. Here, we introduce the sodiophilic V
2
O
3
particles to form a protective layer on Na surface (Na/V
2
O
3
). The high Na ion adsorption energy and low nucleation overpotential of Na/V
2
O
3
facilitate the diffusion of Na ions and homogeneous Na deposition, which can work well in cubing dendrite development. Thus, the symmetrical cell (Na/V
2
O
3
||Na/V
2
O
3
) can stably operate for 670 h at 0.5 mA·cm
−2
/1 mAh·cm
−2
with a smaller voltage hysteresis (less than 100 mV). Moreover, full cell constructed by coupling Na/V
2
O
3
anode with Na
3
V
2
(PO
4
)
3
cathode displays an outstanding rate performance, maintaining a high capacity of 70 mAh·g
−1
at 30 C. On the basis of the design of sodiophilic protection layer, a dendrite-free, outstanding rate performance, and long lifespan sodium metal battery is realized.
Eelgrass and Macroalgae Loss in an Oregon Estuary: Consequences for Ocean Acidification and Hypoxia
Authors: Magel Caitlin L. , Hacker Sally D. , Chan Francis , Helms Alicia R.
Published: September 2023

Estuarine macrophytes are proposed to influence ocean acidification and hypoxia (OAH) via the uptake (release) of inorganic carbon (oxygen) during photosynthesis. The extent to which macrophytes mitigate OAH in estuaries depends on the interaction between variable environmental conditions and macrophyte production over space and time. To explore these complexities in detail, we considered the potential causes and consequences of intertidal eelgrass and macroalgae declines in a U.S. Pacific Northwest estuary. We compiled and analyzed a record of eelgrass (
Zostera marina
) and ulvoid macroalgae along with a broad suite of environmental conditions over 15 years (2004 to 2019) at 3 sites along an estuarine gradient in South Slough, Oregon. The analysis showed that declining macrophyte biomass coincided with increasing temperature (water and air), watershed disturbance, and possibly turbidity. Coincident with macrophyte loss, diel dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH variability were reduced, indicating an influence of macrophytes on water quality at an ecosystem scale. Eelgrass loss was correlated with declining gross production and respiration, which altered the diel dynamics of pH, DO, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide at some sites. Under certain conditions, there was an association between eelgrass biomass and changes in DO and pH of more than 2 mg/l and 0.3 units, respectively. We found that daytime amelioration of low DO and pH was possible at certain locations when macrophyte biomass (especially eelgrass) was high. However, our analyses suggested that the efficacy of macrophyte mitigation of OAH depends on macrophyte abundance and the volume and residence time of overlying water.
Rapid Energy Exchange between In Situ Formed Bromine Vacancies and CO
2
Molecules Enhances CO
2
Photoreduction
Authors: Ren Qin , He Ye , Wang Hong , Sun Yanjuan , Dong Fan
Published: September 2023

Photocatalytic reduction of CO
2
into fuels provides a prospective tactic for regulating the global carbon balance utilizing renewable solar energy. However, CO
2
molecules are difficult to activate and reduce due to the thermodynamic stability and chemical inertness. In this work, we develop a novel strategy to promote the adsorption and activation of CO
2
molecules via the rapid energy exchange between the photoinduced Br vacancies and CO
2
molecules. Combining in situ continuous wave-electron paramagnetic resonance (cw-EPR) and pulsed EPR technologies, we observe that the spin–spin relaxation time (T
2
) of BiOBr is decreased by 198 ns during the CO
2
photoreduction reaction, which is further confirmed by the broadened EPR linewidth. This result reveals that there is an energy exchange interaction between in situ formed Br vacancies and CO
2
molecules, which promotes the formation of high-energy CO
2
molecules to facilitate the subsequent reduction reaction. In addition, theoretical calculations indicate that the bended CO
2
adsorption configuration on the surface of BiOBr with Br vacancies caused the decrease of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of the CO
2
molecule, which makes it easier for CO
2
molecules to acquire electrons and get activated. In situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy further shows that the activated CO
2
molecules are favorably converted to key intermediates of COOH*, resulting in a CO generation rate of 9.1 μmol g
−1
h
−1
and a selectivity of 100%. This study elucidates the underlying mechanism of CO
2
activation at active sites and deepens the understanding of CO
2
photoreduction reaction.
A Dietary Source of High Level of Fluoroquinolone Tolerance in
mcr
-Carrying Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Xu Tianqi , Fang Dan , Li Fulei , Wang Zhiqiang , Liu Yuan
Published: September 2023

The emergence of antibiotic tolerance, characterized by the prolonged survival of bacteria following antibiotic exposure, in natural bacterial populations, especially in pathogens carrying antibiotic resistance genes, has been an increasing threat to public health. However, the major causes contributing to the formation of antibiotic tolerance and underlying molecular mechanisms are yet poorly understood. Herein, we show that potassium sorbate (PS), a widely used food additive, triggers a high level of fluoroquinolone tolerance in bacteria carrying mobile colistin resistance gene
mcr
. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that PS treatment results in the accumulation of intracellular fumarate, which activates bacterial two-component system and decreases the expression level of outer membrane protein OmpF, thereby reducing the uptake of ciprofloxacin. In addition, the supplementation of PS inhibits aerobic respiration, reduces reactive oxygen species production and alleviates DNA damage caused by bactericidal antibiotics. Furthermore, we demonstrate that succinate, an intermediate product of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, overcomes PS-mediated ciprofloxacin tolerance. In multiple animal models, ciprofloxacin treatment displays failure outcomes in PS preadministrated animals, including comparable survival and bacterial loads with the vehicle group. Taken together, our works offer novel mechanistic insights into the development of antibiotic tolerance and uncover potential risks associated with PS use.
Multiplayer Reach–Avoid Differential Games in 3D Space Inspired by Harris’ Hawks’ Cooperative Hunting Tactics
Authors: Ruan Wanying , Duan Haibin , Sun Yongbin , Yuan Wanmai , Xia Jie
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates a multiplayer reach–avoid differential game in 3-dimensional (3D) space, which involves multiple pursuers, multiple evaders, and a designated target region. The evaders aim to reach the target region, while the pursuers attempt to guard the target region by capturing the evaders. This class of research holds significant practical value. However, the complexity of the problem escalates substantially with the growing number of players, rendering its solution extremely challenging. In this paper, the multiplayer game is divided into many subgames considering the cooperation among pursuers, reducing the computational burden, and obtaining numerically tractable strategies for players. First, the Apollonius sphere, a fundamental geometric tool for analyzing the 3D differential game, is formulated, and its properties are proved. Based on this, the optimal interception point for the pursuer to capture the evader is derived and the winning conditions for the pursuer and evader are established. Then, based on the Apollonius sphere, the optimal state feedback strategies of players are designed, and simultaneously, the optimal one-to-one pairings are obtained. Meanwhile, the Value function of the multiplayer reach–avoid differential game is explicitly given and is proved to satisfy Hamilton–Jacobi–Isaacs (HJI) equation. Moreover, the matching algorithm for the case with pursuers outnumbered evaders is provided through constructing a weighted bipartite graph, and the cooperative tactics for multiple pursuers are proposed, inspired by the Harris’ Hawks intelligent cooperative hunting tactics. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results for both cases where the number of adversary players is equal and unequal between the 2 groups.
Remodeling Tumor Immune Microenvironment by Using Polymer-Lipid-Manganese Dioxide Nanoparticles with Radiation Therapy to Boost Immune Response of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zetrini Abdulmottaleb E. , Lip HoYin , Abbasi Azhar Z. , Alradwan Ibrahim , Ahmed Taksim , He Chunsheng , Henderson Jeffrey T. , Rauth Andrew M. , Wu Xiao Yu
Published: September 2023

Despite substantial progress in the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), including radiation therapy and immunotherapy alone or in combination, the response to treatment remains poor due to the hypoxic and immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment. Herein, we exploited the bioreactivity of novel polymer–lipid manganese dioxide nanoparticles (PLMDs) to remodel the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) by increasing the local oxygen levels and extracellular pH and enhancing radiation-induced immunogenic cell death. This study demonstrated that PLMD treatment sensitized hypoxic human and murine CRPC cells to radiation, significantly increasing radiation-induced DNA double-strand breaks and ultimately cell death, which enhanced the secretion of damage-associated molecular patterns, attributable to the induction of autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Reoxygenation via PLMDs also polarized hypoxic murine RAW264.7 macrophages toward the M1 phenotype, enhancing tumor necrosis factor alpha release, and thus reducing the viability of murine CRPC TRAMP-C2 cells. In a syngeneic TRAMP-C2 tumor model, intravenous injection of PLMDs suppressed, while radiation alone enhanced recruitment of regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Pretreatment with PLMDs followed by radiation down-regulated programmed death-ligand 1 and promoted the infiltration of antitumor CD8
+
T cells and M1 macrophages to tumor sites. Taken together, TIME modulation by PLMDs plus radiation profoundly delayed tumor growth and prolonged median survival compared with radiation alone. These results suggest that PLMDs plus radiation is a promising treatment modality for improving therapeutic efficacy in radioresistant and immunosuppressive solid tumors.
System of Tax Incentives in Research and Business Development: An Analysis of the Recent Case Law of Portuguese Tax Arbitration
Authors: Aldeia Susana , Jayantilal Shital , Nanez Sergio
Published: September 2023

The main objective of this work is to analyse the understanding of the tax authority regarding the application of the tax benefit in support of research and development in professional societies and whether this understanding complies with the legal provision. Additionally, to understand the sense of the recent decisions of the arbitral court in this matter. For this purpose, the study applies the legal research methodology. Several legal sources have been analysed, such as the personal income tax law, the corporate income tax law, the investment tax law, administrative doctrine and the jurisprudence of the Portuguese arbitration court. The study shows that the tax authority has been assuming anunderstanding that does not fit in the legislation currently in force and administrative doctrine concerning tax benefits for the research and development of professional companies. The public authority limits the tax deduction to these entities, and this limitation would not apply in the case of commercial, industrial or service companies. Moreover, the Portuguese arbitral court recently confirmed this discriminatory understanding and agreed with this view. Thus, case law contributes significantly to the clarification of the application of the law.
Entrepreneurs Creating Entrepreneurs: Shopkeepers Supporting the Forming of Micro businesses
Authors: Vold Tone , Slyman Souad , Bergum Svein , Kiønig Linda V.
Published: September 2023

Making clothes and developing your own brand of clothes may not be innovative although it is a sign of entrepreneurial behaviour. However, the entrepreneurship does not stop there. For some years now, a young man has been selling a clothing range, as well as collaborating with other brands, in order to help kids and youths coming from the same background as himself, i.e., surrounded by drugs and criminality. His idea is to catch the kids/youths before they start taking drugs, become addicted or commit a crime, and show them that there are other better ways to live their lives. He is working towards several new goals: One of them is to open a school where they not only learn “the ordinary curriculum”, but which also focuses on making a living for themselves and how to stand up for themselves. It is about adapting the schooling and learning to their life situation, rather than the children adapting to school. The earnings are not great (yet), but his eagerness to present the objective of the business has earned him some attention, not only among potential customers, but also with local and other authorities. His passionate and yet humble appearance appeals to customers and authorities. In addition to earning money to fund other youths, he also invests in them setting up micro businesses in order to become independent. In other words, his entrepreneurship skills have helped develop other entrepreneurs. In this paper, we will present the initial findings of our entrepreneur and his entrepreneurial achievements, characteristics and transformative style. We seek to explain the success behind such entrepreneurial activities using social entrepreneur and transformative leadership theories. We have conducted our first initial semi-structured interviews via zoom using interview guides and more research is planned for the next phase of our research.
Optimization of the design parameters of the regenerative hitch installed in a logging vehicle with a trailer
Authors: Nikonov Vadim , Posmetev Valeriy , Zelikov V. , Posmetev Viktor , Chuykov Aleksey
Published: September 2023

This article solves the problem of increasing the efficiency of the functioning of logging road trains in conditions of insufficiently equipped logging roads. Experience in the operation of road trains on such logging roads shows that on these roads the transport and operational qualities of logging road trains are low. The relevance of the scientific direction, aimed at achieving the fuel efficiency of logging road trains and thus increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of logging enterprises, is substantiated. An analysis of the work of foreign scientists is presented, which made it possible to identify significant factors that largely determine the efficiency of the process of hauling timber by timber road trains. A promising design of the coupling device is proposed, which allows converting and usefully using the kinetic energy of the mass of the trailer with timber, which occurs during the movement of a road train along insufficiently equipped logging roads in unsteady and transient traffic modes. The study was based on mathematical and simulation modeling, numerical methods, as well as modern methods for obtaining and processing information with computer support. A mathematical model and a computer program for the movement of a timber road train under changing road conditions have been developed. Computer simulation made it possible to carry out a preliminary assessment of the performance of the proposed pneumohydraulic coupling device with recuperative and damper mechanisms by identifying and analyzing dependencies characterizing the change in the studied performance indicators on the driving conditions of the road train and the design parameters of the device. It has been established that the coupling device during the movement of a logging road train in difficult road conditions at a speed of 30 km/h makes it possible to recuperate up to 7 kW, while the value of the longitudinal acceleration of the trailer link relative to the logging vehicle does not exceed 0.83 m/s2. It is determined that the value of the optimal diameter of the recuperative hydraulic cylinder is 80 ... 100 mm, and the optimal piston stroke is 83 ... 100 mm. In this case, the average power recuperated by the device will be at least 7 kW, and the average longitudinal acceleration of the trailer will be no more than 0.8 m/s2. It was found that the developed recuperation system remains effective in a wide range of roughness heights of 0.2 ... 0.4 m, providing a recuperated power of 2.3 ... 19.7 kW, respectively, with an acceptable average longitudinal acceleration of 0.3 ... 2.2 m/s2. The results obtained will be used as recommendations for designers to refine the proposed coupling device at the design stage.
Dynamics of the pine forest ground cover in the forest-steppe zone after fires
Authors: Popova Valentina , Popova Anna , Kondrat'eva Anastasiya , Tseplyaev Aleksey , Klimchik Gennadiy , Bel’china Olesya
Published: September 2023

The ground cover in the forest plant community is the most dynamic structure. We analyzed the ground cover in the pre- and post-fire period in the forest community of a pine forest of natural origin, not damaged by fires, but located on the border of the harem. The study was carried out in biotopes of pine forest (Voronezh region, Educational and Experimental Forestry Enterprise of Voronezh State Forestry Engineering University named after G.F. Morozov) by describing the ground cover of the transect in several types of forest of areas undamaged by fire: dry forest, raw forest, subor. Over the past decade, the total number of ground cover species in the pine forest has been preserved (63 species), their species composition is changing. The greatest species diversity is characteristic of suborea. By 2022, steppe and meadow plants, primarily cereals, will appear in the flora, which indicates a change in environmental conditions. Ground lichens have completely disappeared, as well as 19 species of indicator plants, six of which are included in the Red Book of the Voronezh Region. There was a change in the structure of plant groups. Along with the indicator species, meadow and steppe species appear in the groups. The total projective coverage of the ground cover decreased from 80 to 68 %, as well as the projective coverage of the thicket (from 60 to 50%), mosses (from 80 to 70%), lingonberries (from 40 to 30%) in groups.
The influence of microclimatic urban conditions on the growth of Tilia cordata Mill. (Ufa city example)
Authors: Bayturina Regina , Gabdelhakov Aydar , Salim'yanova Lenara
Published: September 2023

The biological state of plantings with contrasting microclimatic growing conditions within the city limits is influenced by the orientation of streets to the cardinal directions and the presence of high-rise buildings. The trunk diameters (d0,1 and d1,3) and the height of Tilia cordata Mill were measured (n = 1 476 trees on 12 trial areas) with different age range (within V-X classes), freely growing on twelve linear trial areas allocated within two districts of the Ufa city of the Republic of Bashkortostan. The comparison of the average values of biometric parameters of trees growing in areas with different microclimates was carried out using the Student's test (α=0.05). In the process of conducting research on sites with contrasting microclimatic conditions, it was revealed that the growth, development and productivity of green spaces in urban conditions is influenced by their location, microclimatic conditions and air temperature. The orientation of the streets to the cardinal directions and the presence of high-rise buildings - sunny or shady - are very important for the growth of the tree. On the shady side during the growing period there is more moisture and the air temperature is lower. Of great importance for the difference in the diameters of the trees of the objects under consideration is their age. In addition, the immediate proximity of trees to the carriageway of the main street of the city also has a serious impact on their condition. The data of this study allow them to be used in the organization of landscape care for urban plantings, including linden trees.
Fitur Instagram Shopping Avoskin Dalam Keputusan Pembelian Konsumen Remaja Putri di Kota Surabaya
Authors: FEBRIANTI ANDISA RIZKY
Published: September 2023

The presence of the Instagram Shopping feature has made many businesses and brands take advantage of this feature, including Avoskin, to make it easier for consumers to shop. For this reason, this research was conducted to explore the role of Avoskin's Instagram Shopping feature in the purchasing decisions of young female consumers in the city of Surabaya. The research method was carried out qualitatively, involving 10 high school students as research participants. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and content analysis on Avoskin's Instagram account.

The results of the study show that Avoskin's Instagram Shopping feature plays a role in purchasing decisions because it provides an informative display, is easily accessible and minimally distracted, so that consumers can easily find out product and price information. In addition, this feature also makes it easier for consumers to make purchases directly through the Instagram application, which provides a convenient and efficient experience.
Kontribusi Sektor Pariwisata Terhadap Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Di Empat Kabupaten Kawasan Kerjasama Utara- Utara
Authors: Santoso Ivan Rahmat
Published: September 2023

This study aims to see how much impact the contribution of the Tourism Sector in the North-North Cooperation Area has on Economic Growth. This study uses secondary data obtained from various parties such as the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the Culture and Tourism Office, and other literature taken based on a period of 8 years. The type of data used is panel data with simple linear regression analysis. The results in this study indicate that the contribution of the Tourism Sector has a positive but insignificant effect on Economic Growth in the North-North Cooperation Region. The leading destinations in the North-North Cooperation Area include North Bolaang Mongondow Regency, namely Pinagut Stone Tourism, Saronde Island Tourism in North Gorontalo, while in Bone Bolango Whale Shark Tourism and in Buol Regency, Busak Island Tourism.