bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of the process of resource allocation between digital software technologies
Authors: Zaitseva Irina , Malafeyev Oleg , Al Manai Shirin , Belyaeva Svetlana , Leshcheva Marina , Murashko Andrei
Published: April 2024

Resource distribution amongst digital software technology systems is a tough operation that demands high effectiveness and a significant amount of time, especially because it is a dynamic activity with basic factors that vary over time. In this article, we highlight three different situations in the technology sector. Firstly, the role of using the dynamic programming approach to construct a model that helps find the maximum profit value for digital software technology subsystems by choosing the optimal sequence of control distribution of resources between these subsystems. Secondly, constructing the optimal order for digital software technology project execution to find minimal waiting time using the compromise solution algorithm. Thirdly, the role of the optimal assignment method in finding a compromise solution is that it determines the "fairest" strategy for assignment in the sense that it minimizes the loss to the owner, who has the maximum loss in profit. The assignment methodology finds the optimal software teams for digital software technology system projects, where each software team is qualified for a digital software technology system project, taking other participants’ choices into account, to achieve the maximum profit. The dynamic programming methods considered here can be useful for planning and allocating resources between the enterprises of the agro-industrial complex.
Formation of the bacterial community as the basis of probiotic supplement for livestock
Authors: Valiullin L. R. , Mukhammadiev Rish S. , Gumerov V. G. , Sadykov B A. , Mukhammadiev Rin S. , Sorokina D. A. , Tarasova E. Yu. , Mukhammadieva A. S.
Published: April 2024

The paper presents the results of research on the creation of a community based on lactobacilli and bacilli with antimicrobial activity against pathogens of intestinal infections in farm animals. B. subtilis strain MP 2 and L. plantarum strain MP 5 included in the consortium are characterized by resistance to artificial gastric juice and bile salts, as well as the ability to form extracellular hydrolytic enzymes (xylanase, carboxymethylcellulase, avicelase, β-glucosidase, amylase, phytase, protease and lipase), antimicrobial (acids, bacteriocins, siderophores and exopolysaccharides) and antioxidant metabolites. B. subtilis strain MP 2 and L. plantarum strain MP 5 did not have hemolytic activity and did not carry genes responsible for toxin production, which indicates the potential safety of this bacteria. It was concluded that the developed consortium is promising for use as a probiotic for animal husbandry.
Efficiency of cluster supports and organic fertilizers in tomato cultivation in greenhouse conditions
Authors: Dyikanova Marina , Vorobyev Michael , Terekhova Vera
Published: April 2024

In the Moscow region, tomatoes are grown in high-tech or spring greenhouse conditions with solar heating. The microclimate in spring greenhouses depends on weather conditions, and unfavorable factors can lead to physiological disorders and infectious diseases. This study examines the influence of arched cluster supports and the application of organic fertilizers on the yield formation of tomato F1 DRC 564. Flexible Arch 6 mm (flexible) and Top Flex Arch 6 mm (rigid) cluster supports were used to prevent cluster breakage, along with organic fertilizers Rostovit and Aminozol. The research was conducted in 2022-2023 at the V.I. Edelstein Research Center for Horticulture and Vegetable Growing, in a spring ground film greenhouse with solar heating. Biochemical parameters showed a positive effect in the variant treated with the OMEK-7M and Aminozol preparations. The dry matter content in the fruits of these variants was 9.7-9.8%, 0.5-0.6% higher than in the control variant. The variant treated with Rostovit had the highest content of ascorbic acid at 26.0%, 8% higher than the control. Nitrate content in the fruits in all experimental variants remained within the permissible range for tomatoes grown in protected soil, ranging from 18 to 19 mg/kg.
Calculation of air curtain parameters for cattle breeding livestock premises taking into account wind load
Authors: Kuzmichev Aleksey , Khimenko Aleksei , Tikhomirov Dmitry , Samarin Gennady
Published: April 2024

The use of air curtains in livestock premises is aimed at limiting the amount of cold air entering through the open gate opening and heating it. Recommendations for selection and calculation methods for air curtains for cattle breeding farm premises are given, taking into account the influence of wind load. The proposed method makes it possible to calculate the thermal and energy parameters of air curtains, taking into account the variability of the climatic factors impact (wind speed and direction). The aerodynamic coefficients of the cowshed building, taking into account wind directions, were determined to calculate the amount of air entering through the gate opening protected by an air curtain. Formulas for calculating heat losses through an opening protected by an air curtain are given. The procedure for calculating the parameters is proposed and the requirements for air curtains for cattle breeding livestock premises are formulated.
Study of soil tillage process from parameters and working depth of the working bod
Authors: Igamberdiyev Asqar , Usmanova Gulnoza
Published: April 2024

The article presents the results of experimental studies of the positive influence of the optimal combination of ripping elements with a stand on the quality of soil tillage and traction resistance of the working body. In the experiment, model samples of ripping elements of rectangular shape were tested on a universal dynamometer. It was found that the qualitative and energy characteristics of the working body are mainly influenced by five factors: the depth of cultivation (H), the angle of inclination of the stand (αst) relative to the horizontal, the width (b), the length of outrigger (L) and the cutting angle (β) of ripping elements.
Examining laminar, non-stationary viscoelastic fluid flow between two parallel planes
Authors: Navruzov K. , Begjanov A. Sh. , Abdikarimov N. I. , Yusupov Sh.
Published: April 2024

The generalized Maxwell model is used to handle problems involving the unsteady flow of a viscoelastic fluid in a flat channel under the effect of a constant pressure gradient. Formulas for fluid flow, velocity distribution, and other hydrodynamic characteristics were found. Transient processes during unsteady flow of a viscoelastic fluid in a flat channel are investigated based on the discovered formulas. The analysis’s conclusions demonstrated that, at small Debord number values, the procedures of changing a viscoelastic fluid’s properties from an unstable to a stationary state essentially don’t differ from those of a Newtonian fluid. Exceeding the Debord number relatively unity, it has been established that the process of transition of a viscoelastic fluid from an unsteady state to a stationary state is of a wave nature, in contrast to the transition process of a Newtonian fluid, and the transition time is several times longer than that of a Newtonian fluid. It was also discovered that perturbed processes can arise during the transition. These disturbances occurring in unsteady flows of a viscoelastic fluid can be stabilized by mixing the Newtonian fluid within it. The implementation of this property is important in preventing technical failures or malfunctions.
Compositions based on enrichment of cotton and sunflower oil with pomegranate seed oil
Authors: Saminov X. N. , Nazarov O. M.
Published: April 2024

Oil was extracted from the seeds of pomegranate “Qayyum” variety in a Soxhlet extractor with extraction gasoline. By enriching the separated oil with sunflower and cottonseed oils, 6 different oil compositions were prepared in the proportions of 85:15, 90:10 and 95:5. The fatty acid composition of the prepared oil compositions was studied by the GC method. GC analysis of the composition of the prepared oil compositions showed that only punicic acid was detected in the conjugated α-linolenic acids. As the amount of pomegranate oil increases, the content of punicic acid in oil compositions increases. The amount of linoleic acid is the highest in the 95:5 composition of the oil, and decreases as the amount of pomegranate oil increases. Conjugated α-linolenic acids are not detected in cottonseed oil, and punicic acid is detected in compositions prepared with the addition of pomegranate oil, and its amount increases as the amount of pomegranate oil increases. Prepared oil compositions can be used in the preparation of various medicinal products and biologically active food additives depending on the acid content.
The technology of using a jet pump to increase the efficiency of vertical drainage
Authors: Rakhimov Kudrat , Otakhonov Makhsud , Melikuziyev Sarvar , Sultonov Rustam
Published: April 2024

Vertical drainage systems, which rely on pumps and tube wells, are widely recognized for their effectiveness despite drawbacks such as high costs and significant energy consumption. In a recent study, the integration of a jet pump into vertical drainage systems was explored to enhance their efficiency. A specialized laboratory setup was developed to examine the use of a jet pump within these systems. The research focused on understanding how the diameter of the pressure pipe affects the jet pump’s suction capabilities. It was found that the jet pump operated at its highest efficiency, 50%, with a pressure pipe diameter of 40 mm. Statistical analysis of the laboratory data led to the formulation of a relationship for estimating both the suction capacity and suction height of the jet pump in the enhanced vertical drainage system.
Theoretical research of the parameters of the biters that distribute feed to the grinding rotor
Authors: G‘apparov Shokir , Turaev Shavkat , Eshkuvatov Erkin , Sharipov Baxodir , Choriyev Anvar , Raximov Sarvar , Sabirov Akmal
Published: April 2024

Justifying the diameter of the distribution biters and the number of rotations of the device that grinds the pressed feed to the level required by zootechnical standards is the primary goal of the study. The press feed distribution biters’ plan and its working principle are presented. It is necessary to scientifically justify the number of shovels of the proposed distribution biters and the width of the slits between them. During crushing the feed collected by the press, it should ensure the transfer of specified amounts without being stuck in the rotor of the device. The output of the pressed feed grinding device should be 500-600 kg/h in the main time, 400 kg/h during its use, and the length of the crushed feed should be for cattle. 30-50 mm, for sheep it should be 30-40 mm. Based on this, we accept the productivity of 600 kg/hour, the cutting length of 30 mm. In this instance, it was found that in order to maintain the device’s stated productivity of 500–600 kg/h, the biter revolutions should be between 250 and 300 r/min.
Landscape planning of the village school territory
Authors: Orekhovskaya Alexandra , Dvoryashina Tatiana , Voinash Sergey , Zagidullin Ramil , Latypova Elena
Published: April 2024

The article assessed the existing situation on the territory of the village school Yakovlevo, Belgorod region: geographical location, boundaries of the object, assortment of growing trees and shrubs. A center drawing was drawn up indicating the main objects. The main elements of landscape design have been developed: a sports ground, a playground, a school garden. All elements were executed in compliance with architectural and planning requirements for landscape planning of the territory. A lighting scheme for the school grounds has been developed and implemented.
Thermal efficiency of the enclosing structures of an individual residential house in conditions of interconstant thermal energy generation
Authors: Dolmatov Sergey , Kolesnikov Pavel , Drabkina Elena , Voinash Sergey , Abdullazyanov Edward , Sabitov Linar , Zagidullin Ramil
Published: April 2024

The involvement of recycled wood resources and low-quality wood in the processing provides an active source of raw materials for the construction industry. Environmentally friendly building materials in the form of wood-mineral composites (WMC) help recycle this waste and help conserve natural resources. The study examined the thermal performance of enclosing structures in the form of a frame wall filled with mineral wool, walls made of aerated concrete blocks and stands made of WMC. The purpose of the work was to determine the thermal regime of enclosing structures under stationary and non-stationary thermal conditions. The unsteady mode was created by simulating the generation of thermal energy for 10 hours a day. The mode corresponds as closely as possible to the actual operating conditions of an individual housing construction project, provided that it is heated by a solid fuel boiler or stove with periodic generation of thermal energy. The total simulation time is 5 days. It has been established that in a stationary thermal mode, all considered structures comply with sanitary and hygienic requirements and heat conservation standards.
Urban green spaces as a factor in the sustainable development of megacities
Authors: Galiakberova Veronika , Kharlamov Mikhail , Mamaeva Maria , Blagova Irina , Butorina Galina
Published: April 2024

This article examines the management of urban green spaces as a key factor in the sustainable development of megacities, with a special emphasis on the experience of Krasnoyarsk, a city with a population of over one million facing complex climatic and landscape conditions. It analyzes factors influencing the city’s greening strategy and explores parks, squares, and floral compositions as elements of the urban environment. Suggestions for optimizing greening in Krasnoyarsk are put forward, highlighting its crucial role in the city’s sustainable development.
Study of the influence of ultrasound on the wear resistance of coatings made of composite polymer materials for the shape of architectural and artistic reinforced concrete products
Authors: Mukhitdinov Muzaffar B. , Dadakhanov Farrukh A. , Nuritdinov Zhasur D.
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the impact of ultrasound on the physicalmechanical properties and wear resistance of polymeric composite materials and coatings used in architectural-artistic concrete products. The study is motivated by the frequent failure of polymer coatings on the working surfaces of technological equipment. The research focuses on the development of effective thermosetting epoxy polymeric materials with high adhesion and wear resistance properties for use in the working surfaces of architectural-artistic concrete products. The study examines the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the wear resistance of epoxy polymeric composites in contact with concrete. The investigation uses two types of base compositions of the binder. The compositions are filled with various industrial dispersed and fibrous fillers, including graphite, carbon fibers, soot, iron powder, cement, talc, kaolin, glass fiber, PTFE, and high-density polyethylene. The study is significant as it provides insights into the development of effective thermosetting epoxy polymeric materials with high adhesion and wear resistance properties for use in the working surfaces of architectural-artistic concrete products. The results of the study can help improve the efficiency and durability of metal equipment used in the production of concrete products.
The impacts of green spaces on mitigating the urban hot island effect in the city of Tashkent
Authors: Sharipov Shavkat , Khayitmurodov Alijon
Published: April 2024

This article explores the factors contributing to the formation of urban heat islands in Tashkent, their impacts, and the significance of urban green spaces in reducing the intensity of urban heat islands. The study identifies two types of urban heat islands in Tashkent: air and surface hot islands. The cooling effect of green spaces in Tashkent has been quantified using the Invest software, and a heat mitigation index map of Tashkent has been developed. The findings suggest that urban green spaces play a crucial role in mitigating the intensity of urban heat islands in Tashkent.
Research of biotechnological, physical and mechanical properties and fractional composition of pressed feed bales
Authors: G‘apparov Shokir , Mardonov Sherzod , Bekkamov Mamatqosim , Dusbekov Tuychi , Omonov Kamol , Ulashov Jonibek , Sabirova Gulnaza
Published: April 2024

To develop and optimize the parameters of a compressed feed chopper device, a comprehensive understanding of the biotechnological, physical, and mechanical properties of the processed compressed feed is essential. An experiment was conducted to analyze the fractional composition of compressed straw, alfalfa, and camel thorn. The compressed feed was divided into fractions based on length categories: up to 30 mm, 30-50 mm, and 50 mm. The fractional composition was determined relative to the total mass, and size-mass indicators were analyzed. Results indicated that fractions longer than 50 mm constituted 10.42 kg or 78.2% of the straw bale, with an average mass of 13.3 kg. Fractions in the 30-50 mm range accounted for 2.34 kg or 17.6%, while fractions shorter than 30 mm made up 0.56 kg or 4.2% of the total mass. The average density of the straw bale was calculated to be 83.1 kg/m3. Subsequent experiments revealed the diameter range of stalks for straw (1.5-5.5 mm), alfalfa hay (1.5-4.0 mm), and camel thorn (2-10 mm). Samples of each feed type, ranging from 50 mm to 100 mm in length, were selected for bending and breaking experiments.
Gravity grain cleaning machine and its importance in grain logistics and sustainable agriculture
Authors: Umbarov Ibragim , Karimov Furqat , Karimov Zarip , Bekkamov Mamatqosim , Ubaydullayev Anvar , Eshkuvatov Erkin , Israilova Dildora
Published: April 2024

The design schematic of a gravity-based seed cleaning machine was developed, and experimental tests were conducted. The gravity grain cleaning machine (GUTM) demonstrated a cleaning efficiency of 95%, ensuring that seeds met standard requirements in a single cleaning cycle. The compact and lightweight design of the machine, capable of performing the functions of four processing machines, led to a 50-60% reduction in energy consumption and an economic efficiency increase of SUM 1600 thousand/ton. Despite utilizing only one sieve as the primary component, the gravity seed cleaning machine achieved a seed purity level of up to 98.5%, particularly with seed wheat. The device’s implementation resulted in a significant 50-60% reduction in production costs, streamlined inter-district transportation, prevented the mixing of elite seed varieties, and lowered loading and electricity expenses.
Design and physical model of an electromechanical plant sprayer
Authors: Nuralieva Nodira , Toshev Tajiddin , Beytullaeva Rumiya , Khudaynazarov Anvar
Published: April 2024

The article explores the experience of developed countries in creating and implementing mobile electromechanical devices for plant processing, highlighting the low energy efficiency indicators and high fuel and lubricant costs of equipment running on organic fuel in the republic. The study emphasizes the relevance of transferring agricultural tractors with electric drives in the context of Uzbekistan. The composition and degree of structural compatibility of the mobile electromechanical device were designed based on operating modes, creating opportunities for organizing general services for farms. The energy efficiency indicators of a mobile electromechanical device powered by centralized and mobile energy sources were analyzed, determining that charging from a mobile power station operating on renewable energy sources is optimal. The following parameters were established for the area that can be processed by a mobile electromechanical device in one load (when hanging grain fields): equipment weight (including working solution and battery) - 420 kg, operating speed sprayer speed 11 km/s, and electric motor power 5.8 kW. Based on these parameters, the area that can be processed in one load is 2.46 hectares. This study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of using mobile electromechanical devices powered by renewable energy sources in Uzbekistan's agricultural sector.
Effect of adding used tire aggregates on the mechanical behaviour of a clay
Authors: Faroudja Meziani , Amar Kahil , Mourad Yamoune
Published: April 2024

Several techniques in civil engineering, combining waste with soil, are known in the world. Waste tires are bulky, polluting and non-biodegradable waste. The association of these wastes with coherent soils can give efficient materials and solve several problems encountered by the engineer in the geotechnical sector. The objective of our study is to evaluate the effect of adding used tire aggregates on the mechanical behaviour of a clay. After the different materials are sieved, the prepared samples are then submitted to identification and mechanical tests, mainly: shear tests. In addition to the environmental benefit of the approach proposed in this study, the creation of a new application that allows to absorb a quantity of rubbery waste, the results obtained show that the addition of rubber aggregates to a clay soil, allows to improve the characteristics according to the different percentages of addition and the parameters of shear strength, by decreasing the cohesion and increasing the angle of internal friction.
Design of a Help Tool for the Evaluation of the Permeability of Saturated Soil
Authors: Adjal Leila , Laouchedi Dalila , Mokeddem Youcef , Ait Ahmed Fatiha , Kamel Ait Tahar
Published: April 2024

The permeability of a soil represents the property of this soil to allow penetration by a fluid, the permeability in the saturated state (ks) of soils is an important parameter to determine before the design of geotechnical works, because it constitutes a factor determining factor in the calculation of the load-bearing capacity of soils. The models for predicting saturated permeability proposed in the literature are numerous (statistical models, empirical models, etc.), and the comparison studies between these models are also numerous; with the aim of facilitating such studies we have attempted to present an expert system which takes care of the evaluation of this parameter based on the methods of (Beyer 1981, Kruger 1992, Terzaghi 1981). Our expert system first allows the calculation of (ks) from the three models studied, as it also allows the comparison between the results of these models on the basis of calculation of the mean square error.
A comparative study of critical failure surface in unsaturated soil slopes
Authors: Mihoubi Abderrahim , Houam Abdelkader , Benmoussa Samir , Laouar Mohamed Salah , Fernane Ali , Messast Salah , Gueraidia Saida
Published: April 2024

Landslides are rapid downslope movements triggered by factors such as rainfall, earthquakes, or human activity, where factors like relative permeability, air flow, and variations in hydraulic conductivity affect the mechanisms behind rainfall infiltration and landslide occurrence. This study investigates these phenomena using the finite difference method (FDM) and finite element method (FEM) in FLAC and PLAXIS software. These methods account for the coexistence of water and air, including the Two-phase flow option, in evaluating unsaturated slope stability and identifying critical failure surfaces. The efficiency of these approaches is gauged by varying soil parameters and exploring the impact of different values of suction and hydraulic conductivity, as well as soil-water characteristics, on the safety factor. It was observed that there are disparities between both software packages at high suction values, which impact the safety factor. FLAC is noted for its conservative approach and superiority in representing unfavourable conditions.
Development of cellular construction material-based flax shives: Physico-mechanical and thermal characterisation
Authors: Hamadou-Ali Mohamed , Mezreb Katiba , Benazzouk Amar , Ben Hamed Haikel
Published: April 2024

The reduction of energy consumption in construction, production of thermal insulation materials, and the solution of environmental problems by recycling by-product derived several industrial sectors are becoming greater problems. In this context, vegetable by-products are an excellent alternative product to substitute mineral aggregates because they are easily available and renewable low-cost raw materials, and have higher advantage for economy and environment concerns. The viability of using vegetable materials such as flax shives for developing a sustainable Lightweight Cellular Construction Material (LCCM) is investigated in this paper. The produced material containing different volumes of flax shives (0V (control specimen), 1V, and 2V) was lightened by creating a porous structure in the matrix through a chemical reaction between Aluminium powder and free lime from pre-formulated Tradical PF70 binder. A study conducted on hardened material properties has indicated a significant reduction in sample unit weight, thereby resulting in a level of compressive strength compatible with a load-bearing wall. The reduction in flexural strength was lower than that in compressive strength. This study has also highlighted the effect of the porous structure on the thermal conductivity that lead to provide a high degree of thermal insulation. These results show that the cellular material based on flax particle can be used as suitable insulated load-bearing walls.
Bending Behavior Analysis of Recycled Aggregate Reinforced Concrete Beams According to CBA 93 and Eurocode2 Regulations
Authors: Hizia Bellakehal , Radia Latar , Sondes Kharat
Published: April 2024

Construction waste has been widely used in the civil engineering field in recent decades. This alternative serves to preserve natural resources in terms of aggregates and to reduce public landfill surfaces. However, its use until today has been limited to pavements, sidewalks, decorative elements, embankments, etc. The use of recycled concrete aggregates in the structure elements (beams and columns) is still under development, particularly concerning the development of standards and regulations that encourage and facilitate the usage of recycled concrete. This paper presents the adaptation of Eurocode and CBA 93 rules to predict the bending behavior of reinforced concrete beams in which natural aggregates of concrete are partially substituted by recycled concrete aggregates. The aggregate substitution rates varied from 0% to 100%.Theoretical results showed that the substitution rate does not affect the theoretically predicted values.
Control of a Seismically Excited Building Using μ-Synthesis
Authors: Chaker Karima , Sbartai Badreddine , Farsangi Ehsan Noroozinejad
Published: April 2024

Over the past thirty years, there has been significant progress in protecting structures from earthquakes through structural control, which effectively dissipates energy from dynamic loads. Numerous studies have shown the potential of active control methods in reducing structural responses, leading to improved human safety and seismic structure protection. However, existing control approaches often overlook uncertainties present in real-world scenarios, such as variations in structural coefficients and dynamics. To address this, we aim to employ μ-synthesis, a robust control technique widely used in various fields, which explicitly accounts for these uncertainties during controller design. This paper presents simulations of a three-story building subjected to seismic excitation, with an active bracing system attached to the first floor. We design a robust controller considering both parametric and dynamic uncertainties, demonstrating its effectiveness in significantly reducing structural response amid varying uncertainties. The robustness of the controller is evaluated by testing it under worst-case uncertainty variations.
Analytical solutions for the thermo-mechanical bending of FG beams using a higher order shear deformation theory (HSDT)
Authors: Meski Khaled , Mamen Belgacem , Menasria Abderrahmane
Published: April 2024

The aim of this paper is to analyze a thermo-mechanical behavior of functionally graded beam in thermal environment. Therefore, this research work investigates a thermal, mechanical and thermo-mechanical bending of functionally graded beam resting on simple supports and using a higher order shear deformation theory. the proposed kinematic uses only three variables, which is even less than the first order shear deformation theory (FSDT) and the conventional higher order shear deformation theories (HSDTs). The present model adopts a new displacement field, The material properties of the FG beam are varied along the thickness direction according to the power law distribution (P-FGM). The governing equations for the thermo-mechanical bending investigation are obtained through the principal of virtual work and solved via Navier-type solution method was used to obtain results. All the results are presented in non-dimensional form and validated it by developing the classical beam theory (CBT), and other higher order theories. Parametric studies are thus elaborated to see the influence of the characteristic’s geometries and mechanical in particular: thickness of the FG beam, material index and ratio (width, length).
Directionally Effect Observation in Topographical Site-Effects at Feden-Sema Range (Guelma-Northern Algeria) from Ambient Vibration
Authors: Layadi Khalissa , Tebbouche Yacine Mohamed , Chimouni Redouane , Saadi Ahmed , Beldjoudi Hamoud
Published: April 2024

The Eocene Feden-Sema Range is a topographical structure located in the complex area of Mechtat El-Ababsia (Guelma) characterized by topographical site effects from an experimental investigation using earthquake and ambient vibration. The structure has its maximum orientation toward the south and a half-circular shape. To study the directionality effects caused by this structure, two profiles of ambient vibration measurements were carried out on the maximum axe and through the range of 12 points. The analysis of the horizontal over vertical spectral ratio indicated that the fundamental frequency, f0, of the topographical structure is constant and around 3.0 Hz in all measurement points. The ambient vibration analysis in the 0.1–20 Hz frequency domain showed that f0 is strongly related to the polarization or directionality, where the maximum amplification is obtained at 45° azimuth from the north with an amplitude of 3.5 times compared to 0° at 2.5 times. The obtained result is of great importance in showing that the topographical site effects are not free from the directionality influence in the ground motion, which must be taken into consideration in the case of building construction orientation.
Effectiveness of a training program among parents of preschool children with ASD in Tunisia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Abid Nihed , Gaddour Naoufel , Hmissa Sihem
Published: April 2024

Raising a child with ASD can be overwhelming and challenging for parents, and it poses different needs that require support, guidance, and education. Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a psychoeducational intervention developed to support parents of children with ASD in Tunisia. A randomized controlled trial was carried out in three Autism socio-educational centers in Tunisia. The study was conducted among parents of children with ASD aged 3 to 8 years from November 2020 to January 2022 (N = 31) compared to a control sample of parents of children attending the same centers but received no specific parent intervention (n = 31). The “Blue Hope” program includes eight training sessions delivered through a combination of face-to-face and online sessions. Results showed that the program significantly improved communication and reduced behavior problems in preschool children with ASD, with a significant positive difference noted at the 6-month follow-up. The program also had a positive impact on parental anxiety and depression, with significant and positive differences observed in anxiety and depression scores and the total score at follow-up compared to baseline. These findings suggest that the “Blue Hope” program could be a cost-effective and valuable solution for parents of children with ASD in Tunisia and could be the first step in developing and improving training programs for parents in low-income countries.
Topological perturbations on resilience of the world trade competition network
Authors: Li Zhao , Zhuoming Ren , Ziyi Zhao , Tongfeng Weng
Published: April 2024

Network resilience refers to a system’s capability to adapt its functions to ensure continuity of essential operations amidst external environmental shifts or internal failures. The resilience of the world trade network faces structural disturbances, such as dynamic changes in the internal and external environments, increasing trade barriers and changes in competition between countries, which is an issue worth exploring. In this study, we introduce a world trade competition network that reflects export competition between two countries. We employ a network dynamics model to assess the resilience of this global trade competition network, focusing on the influence of topological disturbances. The eight distinct types of topological perturbations analyzed include nodes representing countries, links symbolizing inter-country competition, and weights indicative of the intensity of this competition. Our findings reveal that the intensity of export competition between countries significantly influences the resilience of the global trade competition network. Specifically, experimental outcomes indicate that network resilience declines more rapidly when nodes are removed sequentially based on higher weighted degrees than when based on lower ones. Similarly, in link perturbation scenarios, removing links associated with higher competition intensity first leads to a more precipitous decrease in network resilience when the network is otherwise stable. Furthermore, in weight alteration scenarios, networks maintaining a higher ratio of high-intensity competition links demonstrate greater stability compared to those with a reduced proportion of such links. Consequently, sustaining a robust level of export competition between countries is crucial for preserving the stability of the network.
High-performance grinding of ceramic matrix composites
Authors: Yin Jingfei , Xu Jiuhua , Su Honghua
Published: April 2024

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are highly promising materials for the next generation of aero-engines. However, machining of CMCs suffers from low efficiency and poor surface finish, which presents an obstacle to their wider application. To overcome these problems, this study investigates high-efficiency deep grinding of CMCs, focusing on the effects of grinding depth. The results show that both the surface roughness and the depth of subsurface damage (SSD) are insensitive to grinding depth. The material removal rate can be increased sixfold by increasing the grinding depth, while the surface roughness and SSD depth increase by only about 10%. Moreover, it is found that the behavior of material removal is strongly dependent on grinding depth. As the grinding depth is increased, fibers are removed in smaller sizes, with the fiber length in chips being reduced by about 34%. However, too large a grinding depth will result in blockage by chip powder, which leads to a dramatic increase in the ratio of tangential to normal grinding forces. This study demonstrates that increasing the depth of cut is an effective approach to improve the machining efficiency of CMCs, while maintaining a good surface finish. It provides the basis for the further development of high-performance grinding methods for CMCs, which should facilitate their wider application.
Dynamical systems approach to studying climate in India
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: April 2024

Understanding the spatio-temporal dynamics from temperature and humidity data correctly identifies El Niño and La Niña occurrences and unpacks their relationship to monsoons.
Effect of cobalt and aluminum doping on the structural and magnetic properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Winarsih Suci , Jatmika Jumaeda , Roza Liszulfah , Risdiana Risdiana , Watanabe Isao
Published: April 2024

A systematic study of the substitution effect of Co and Al on ZnO nanoparticles was carried out by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy and using a superconducting quantum interference device magnetometer to study their structural, morphological, and magnetic properties. Zn1−xMxO (M = Co, Al) at different doping concentrations was prepared using a hydrothermal technique. The XRD results with structural Rietveld refinement reveal that the major phase of all samples had a hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure with a P63mc space group. Hysteresis loops with no magnetic saturation at high fields were analyzed at 2 K in all samples. Zero magnetic remanence and zero coercivity were also examined. The results demonstrated that the magnetic ground state at 2 K in all samples was magnetism with the coexistence of antiferromagnetic, ferromagnetic, and superparamagnetic phases. This behavior persisted at 100 and 300 K in the Al-doped sample, while Co-doped ones exhibited a paramagnetic state only. The role of non-magnetic doping, which leads to the appearance of magnetism in ZnO nanoparticles persisting at high temperatures, is discussed herein.
Exploring light-emitting diode pumped luminescent concentrators in solid-state laser applications
Authors: Perera H C S , Ford B , Das G , Balembois F , Sathian J
Published: April 2024

In the past, there were limited efforts to use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for pumping solid-state lasers. However, these attempts were overshadowed by the introduction of laser diodes, which offered more favourable pumping conditions. Nevertheless, recent advancements in high-power LEDs, coupled with the utilization of luminescent concentrators (LC), have paved the way for a novel approach to pump solid-state lasers. The combination of LEDs and LC in this LED-LC system presents several advantages, including enhanced ruggedness, stability, and cost-effectiveness compared to other laser pumping methods. This review explores the various techniques employed to pump solid-state lasers using LED-LC as a pump source, along with improvements made to enhance the brightness of LEDs in this context.
Synthesis and characterization of modified iron oxide hydrophobic corrosion-resistant pigment for aluminum alloy coating
Authors: Wang Bingkui , Luo Renhuan , Yang Zhanhua , Zhou Xiaoyu , Li Wang , Li Jiacheng , Wei Qiankun , Chen Jun , Wei Guowang , Zhang Jiubing , Wang Zhongmin , Gan Weijiang
Published: April 2024

A hydrophobic coating containing modified iron oxides was prepared for corrosion protection of aluminum alloy. The modified iron oxide particles were synthesized using the annealing method and the evaluation of the corrosion-resistant benefits of modified iron oxides as additive in the epoxy resin coating was conducted. The raw FeOOH phase can be transformed into the α-Fe2O3 phase by increasing the annealing temperature. The morphology, colors, and pore size of the modified iron oxide are controllably evolved via finely adjusting the annealing temperature, which is beneficial for the compatibility, dispersion, and stability with epoxy resin. Besides, modified α-Fe2O3 annealed at 700 °C exhibited elliptical morphology and good solubility in epoxy resin solvents to form a hydrophobic corrosion inhibition layer (TP700), which further improves the corrosion resistance. Findings of corrosion electrochemical measurements and salt spray test confirmed the existence of TP700 composite coating resulted in the best corrosion protective properties on aluminum alloy during the corrosion process with the minimum corrosion current of 7.75 × 10−10 A cm−2 and the maximum |Z|0.01Hz value of 1.80 × 108 Ω cm2, which both are about two orders of magnitude higher than the commercial Fe2O3. Our results suggest a new venue for preparing modified iron oxide pigment on the surface of aluminum alloy materials for enhanced anti-corrosion applications.
Benchmarking of hardware-efficient real-time neural decoding in brain–computer interfaces
Authors: Hueber Paul , Tang Guangzhi , Sifalakis Manolis , Liaw Hua-Peng , Micheli Aurora , Tomen Nergis , Liu Yao-Hong
Published: April 2024

Designing processors for implantable closed-loop neuromodulation systems presents a formidable challenge owing to the constrained operational environment, which requires low latency and high energy efficacy. Previous benchmarks have provided limited insights into power consumption and latency. However, this study introduces algorithmic metrics that capture the potential and limitations of neural decoders for closed-loop intra-cortical brain–computer interfaces in the context of energy and hardware constraints. This study benchmarks common decoding methods for predicting a primate’s finger kinematics from the motor cortex and explores their suitability for low latency and high energy efficient neural decoding. The study found that ANN-based decoders provide superior decoding accuracy, requiring high latency and many operations to effectively decode neural signals. Spiking neural networks (SNNs) have emerged as a solution, bridging this gap by achieving competitive decoding performance within sub-10 ms while utilizing a fraction of computational resources. These distinctive advantages of neuromorphic SNNs make them highly suitable for the challenging closed-loop neural modulation environment. Their capacity to balance decoding accuracy and operational efficiency offers immense potential in reshaping the landscape of neural decoders, fostering greater understanding, and opening new frontiers in closed-loop intra-cortical human-machine interaction.
Introduction
Authors: Lu Lerong
Published: April 2024

This is an introductory chapter. It presents the background of writing the book, especially the transformative force of technological innovations in modern economies. The world is undergoing unprecedented technological breakthroughs in most business areas, as we have seen with the rise of electric vehicles, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven language processing tools, Metaverse, and biotech in the 2010s and 2020s. The financial industry is no exception. Fintech denotes the close interaction between the financial services industry and latest information technologies like big data, cloud computing, blockchain, and AI. The Fintech revolution has produced various novel financial services, products, institutions, and business models, such as app-based banking services, mobile payments, crowdfunding, P2P lending, cryptos, CBDCs, robo-advisors, and insurtech. The chapter also discusses the book’s objective and its potential readership, as well as the original analytical framework known as Lu’s Analysis Model to contextualise the global Fintech revolution. Finally, it presents an outline of other chapters in the book.
Data-balanced transformer for accelerated ionizable lipid nanoparticles screening in mRNA delivery
Authors: Wu Kun , Yang Xiulong , Wang Zixu , Li Na , Zhang Jialu , Liu Lizhuang
Published: April 2024

Despite the widespread use of ionizable lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in clinical applications for messenger RNA (mRNA) delivery, the mRNA drug delivery system faces an efficient challenge in the screening of LNPs. Traditional screening methods often require a substantial amount of experimental time and incur high research and development costs. To accelerate the early development stage of LNPs, we propose TransLNP, a transformer-based transfection prediction model designed to aid in the selection of LNPs for mRNA drug delivery systems. TransLNP uses two types of molecular information to perceive the relationship between structure and transfection efficiency: coarse-grained atomic sequence information and fine-grained atomic spatial relationship information. Due to the scarcity of existing LNPs experimental data, we find that pretraining the molecular model is crucial for better understanding the task of predicting LNPs properties, which is achieved through reconstructing atomic 3D coordinates and masking atom predictions. In addition, the issue of data imbalance is particularly prominent in the real-world exploration of LNPs. We introduce the BalMol block to solve this problem by smoothing the distribution of labels and molecular features. Our approach outperforms state-of-the-art works in transfection property prediction under both random and scaffold data splitting. Additionally, we establish a relationship between molecular structural similarity and transfection differences, selecting 4267 pairs of molecular transfection cliffs, which are pairs of molecules that exhibit high structural similarity but significant differences in transfection efficiency, thereby revealing the primary source of prediction errors. The code, model and data are made publicly available at https://github.com/wklix/TransLNP.
Transposable elements in Rosaceae: insights into genome evolution, expression dynamics, and syntenic gene regulation
Authors: Yu Ze , Li Jiale , Wang Hanyu , Ping Boya , Li Xinchu , Liu Zhiguang , Guo Bocheng , Yu Qiaoming , Zou Yangjun , Sun Yaqiang , Ma Fengwang , Zhao Tao
Published: April 2024

Transposable elements (TEs) exert significant influence on plant genomic structure and gene expression. Here, we explored TE-related aspects across 14 Rosaceae genomes, investigating genomic distribution, transposition activity, expression patterns, and nearby differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Analyses unveiled distinct long terminal repeat retrotransposon (LTR–RT) evolutionary patterns, reflecting varied genome size changes among nine species over the past million years. In the past 2.5 million years, Rubus idaeus showed a transposition rate twice as fast as Fragaria vesca, while Pyrus bretschneideri displayed significantly faster transposition compared with Crataegus pinnatifida. Genes adjacent to recent TE insertions were linked to adversity resistance, while those near previous insertions were functionally enriched in morphogenesis, enzyme activity, and metabolic processes. Expression analysis revealed diverse responses of LTR–RTs to internal or external conditions. Furthermore, we identified 3695 pairs of syntenic DEGs proximal to TEs in Malus domestica cv. ‘Gala’ and M. domestica (GDDH13), suggesting TE insertions may contribute to varietal trait differences in these apple varieties. Our study across representative Rosaceae species underscores the pivotal role of TEs in plant genome evolution within this diverse family. It elucidates how these elements regulate syntenic DEGs on a genome-wide scale, offering insights into Rosaceae-specific genomic evolution.