bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fipronil‐infused sodium polyacrylate gels provide effective management of Argentine ants in conservation areas
Authors: Buczkowski Grzegorz , Wossler Theresa 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDVarious types of hydrogel compounds have recently been developed for controlling invasive and pest ants in a range of environmental settings including agricultural, urban and natural areas. The current study evaluated the potential of sodium polyacrylate (ACR) hydrogels to effectively deliver liquid baits to Argentine ants.RESULTSRelative to standard polyacrylamide (PAM) hydrogels, individual ACR hydrogel particles were approximately five‐fold heavier; this may affect how ants interact with the bait particles, and further influence bait uptake and efficacy. Additionally, ACR hydrogels had significantly higher water absorption capacity and significantly slower rate of water loss, especially during the first 2 h. The efficacy of ACR hydrogel bait containing 0.005% fipronil and various attractants was evaluated on laboratory colonies. Results demonstrated that ACR hydrogel acceptance is significantly increased by the addition of feeding attractants. In addition, a field trial was performed in a nature reserve invaded by Argentine ants to evaluate the efficacy of ACR hydrogel bait. The field trial demonstrated that ACR hydrogel bait containing 0.005% fipronil with various attractants is highly effective and that ant densities throughout the baited plots declined by >99% within 7 days.CONCLUSIONSThe results of this study demonstrate that: (i) fipronil is highly effective for Argentine ant control in natural areas when used in low concentrations (0.005%); (ii) ACR hydrogels are an effective tool for delivering liquid baits to Argentine ants; and (iii) hydrogel baits augmented with various attractants including salt, protein and pheromone are highly attractive to Argentine ants. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Online actor‐critic learning control with self‐triggered mechanism for nonlinear regulation problems
Authors: Liu Guilong , Yang Yongliang , Li Qing , Modares Hamidreza 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIn this article, a novel self‐triggered mechanism is developed to reduce the computation burden and communication bandwidth for the optimal regulation problem of nonlinear dynamical systems. Compared with existing results, this article can avoid continuous measurement of online signals while achieving the performance optimization with closed‐loop system stability guarantee. The self‐triggered mechanism is combined with the actor‐critic structure for performance optimization, where the critic is trained to provide a guideline to improve the actor. The actor‐critic learning is implemented as a hybrid system, where the critic weights update as a continuous flow, and the actor weights are adapted intermittently. The simulation study is conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed self‐triggered actor‐critic learning.
Design and application of finite‐time tracking control for autonomous ground vehicle affected by external disturbances
Authors: Chen Zongliang , Pan Shuguo , Tang Xinhua , Meng Xiaolin , Gao Wang , Yu Baoguo 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPath tracking plays a critical role in autonomous driving for autonomous ground vehicle (AGV). However, AGV faces challenges in accurate tracking and chatter reduction due to external disturbances, making it difficult to meet the tracking performance requirements. Currently, sliding mode control (SMC) and disturbances observer are primarily employed for disturbance estimation. However, ensuring finite‐time robust control remains a significant challenge. To ensure rapid convergence of tracking errors and effective disturbance rejection, this paper proposed a novel non‐singular fast terminal sliding mode (NFTSM) control scheme based on finite‐time disturbance observation (FDO). First, a novel NFTSM controller based on AGV dynamic model is developed to achieve fast convergence of tracking errors. Then, to mitigate disturbances effects and suppress chatter, an innovative FDO method is employed. Finally, based on FDO, the NFTSM‐FDO establishes a control scheme that enhances disturbances suppression and accelerates convergence. The simulation and experimental results demonstrate the innovation of the proposed method. Compared with other SMC methods, the results validate the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed approach, exhibiting fast convergence and superior tracking performance.
Energy security indicators for sustainable energy development: Application to electricity sector in the context of state economic decisions
Authors: Karpavicius Tomas , Balezentis Tomas , Streimikiene Dalia 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis paper discusses the interlinkages between energy security indicators and government economic interventions in the electricity sector. The research was carried out using a systematic literature review and comparative analysis and was mainly based on qualitative criteria. Following a literature review and data analysis, the paper identifies 65 energy security indicators (from over 300 possible indicators) that are relevant for the electricity sector. The work also highlights the indicators of energy security on which the state's economic decisions have a direct and indirect effect. This is the basis of the scientific novelty and relevance of this study. The paper highlights the role of public economic policy in the domain of energy security (including energy supply, reliability and affordability). This research helps to show how different parts of energy safety in the electricity field are connected. It shows how government economic choices can have both direct and indirect effects on energy outcomes, helping us understand the complex ways policies and energy results relate to each other. The paper argues that state interventions in areas such as public support for promotion of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency gains, and energy price regulation exert a significant effect on energy security in the electricity sector. The paper also examines the theoretical issues underpinning the definition, dimensions and assessment of energy security. Possible trade‐offs between economic growth and energy security are discussed drawing attention to the importance of a balanced approach to formulation of economic policy. The study also argues that state economic decisions play a crucial role in shaping energy security in the electricity sector and stresses the topicality of a better ability to fathom the potential outcomes of these decisions. The comprehensive analysis of 65 energy security indicators presented in this paper gives valuable insights for both analysts and decision makers. The analysis confirms the importance of a nuanced approach in measuring and combining these indicators into policymaking (for governments, industry leaders, scientists, researchers, NGOs) to enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of energy security policies in the electricity sector. The findings suggest that policies promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency and diversification are key to achieving a stable and sustainable electricity supply, urging further research incorporating dynamic models and data analytics for comprehensive energy security strategies.
Electrification of Oxidized Starch Production – Influence on Product Quality
Authors: Bisselink Roel , Polhuis Michael , Timmermans Johan W. , Haveren Jacco van , Slaghek Ted M. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIndustrial starch oxidations are commonly carried out using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Electrification of this process via continuous generation of NaOCl from sodium chloride (NaCl) in situ has the potential to substantially lower the environmental impact thereof, as brine waste streams are reduced, while occupational health and safety risks associated with the use of NaOCl, such as during transport, handling, and storage, can also be minimized. In the present study, the influence of continuous electrochemical generation of NaOCl from NaCl on the quality of the starch oxidation process is evaluated based on measurements of oxidized starch carboxylate contents (DSCO2H), molecular weights (Mws), and pasting characteristics in comparison to those of commercially available reference oxidized starches produced by oxidation with NaOCl in batch suspension processes. Recycling of the NaCl solution and how this affects the quality of the oxidized starch products is also investigated. By successfully preparing oxidized granular starches almost identical to the reference starches, the results show that it is feasible to electrify the oxidation process and that the original NaCl chloride solution can be recycled at least four times for in situ electrochemical generation of NaOCl.
Advancements in Biopolymer‐Derived Graft Copolymers: A Comprehensive Review on Their Application in Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Sinha Sweta 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTRising concerns over water pollution and the depletion of non‐renewable resources have propelled the exploration of eco‐friendly and sustainable wastewater treatment alternatives. Biopolymer‐derived graft copolymers emerge as a promising solution, offering biodegradability, cost‐effectiveness, versatility, and enhanced functionality. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in utilizing these copolymers as eco‐friendly flocculants for wastewater treatment. It covers synthesis methods for functionalized biopolymer‐based flocculants, diverse flocculation mechanisms, and their efficacy in solid–liquid separation. The article explores applications for removing pollutants, emphasizing biodegradability, cost‐effectiveness, and versatility. Special attention is given to the environmental impact, critically analyzing how these copolymers contribute to sustainable water treatment practices. The review also discusses potential future prospects and advancements in addressing global water pollution challenges using biopolymer‐derived graft copolymers.
Reassigned surgical margins after neoadjuvant chemotherapy results in low local recurrence in dogs with mast cell tumours
Authors: Ciammaichella Luca , Sabattini Silvia , Del Magno Sara , Renzi Andrea , Cola Veronica , Zanardi Stefano , Agnoli Chiara , Marconato Laura 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundNeoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is delivered before surgery to allow less extensive tumour resection, but the optimal surgical margin width after NAC is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of reassigned margins on local recurrence after NAC in dogs with mast cell tumours (MCTs).MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted for dogs with MCTs undergoing NAC consisting of vinblastine and prednisolone, subsequent tumour resection and lymphadenectomy, and a minimum follow‐up of 6 months. Surgical margins were reassigned based on the size of the MCT after NAC. Pre‐ and post‐NAC measurements of MCTs were recorded. The margin status was assessed with a combined radial and tangential sectioning technique; pre‐NAC MCT cytograde and lymph node (LN) cytological status were compared with the Kiupel grade and Weishaar stage, respectively.ResultsTwenty‐two dogs were included. MCT shrinkage after NAC consistently occurred, with a median reduction rate of 40.4% (range 5%–94.5%). Margins were complete in 15 of 22 dogs, and two MCTs and three LNs appeared histologically downgraded and downstaged, respectively. Two (9.1%) MCTs recurred.LimitationsThe limitations of this study were the small sample size and relatively short follow‐up.ConclusionNAC leads to shrinkage of canine MCTs, with the resulting reassigned surgical margins being associated with a low recurrence rate.
How the cost of veterinary care impacts the wellbeing, learning and practice of early career vets
Authors: Williams Rachel 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundInvestigations by the Competition and Markets Authority into the veterinary sector have highlighted the cost of veterinary care. This paper examines the changing attitudes of early career vets towards these costs.MethodsNinety‐seven semi‐structured interviews were held with 25 vets as part of a 2.5‐year longitudinal study. An inductive approach to analysis was adopted with flexible thematic analysis being undertaken using NVivo 12.ResultsHigh veterinary care costs create a financial burden for clients and an emotional burden for vets. Vets felt unprepared to deal with restricted client budgets and were unsupported by their practices in relation to charging. When owners could not afford treatment, vets had fewer opportunities to perform procedures and practise their skills. Eventually, vets distanced themselves from their clients’ circumstances to prioritise their own wellbeing and began to value their expertise and charge appropriately.LimitationsThe small sample size and emphasis on graduates of UK universities limit the generalisability of the findings.ConclusionThis paper highlights the impact of veterinary care costs on early career vets’ wellbeing, practice and learning opportunities and advocates a ‘spectrum of care’ approach to veterinary education. It also encourages practices to engage with vets regarding charging behaviours.
Study on the effects of red imported fire ants invasion on the Chinese pangolin in Guangdong, China
Authors: Zhao Ting , Zhang Yihang , Dou Hongliang , Wang Kai , Zhang Zhidong , Tong Fuchun , Wang Cai , Zou Chuanshan , Sun Song , An Fuyu , Yang Jinzhen , Wang Jingxin , Wang Zhiya , Wang Lei , Hua Yan 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla Linnaeus) is a critically endangered species that feeds on ants and termites. In 2022–2024, we observed two rescued pangolins being attacked by Solenopsis invicta Buren while in captivity. Clusters of pustules and erythema were found on the face, abdomen and limbs of the pangolin. Histopathological examination of the blistered tissue showed epithelial hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis of the skin tissue with surface crusting. In addition, we found remnants of S. invicta heads in the faeces of stung pangolins, suggesting that pangolins would feed on S. invicta. Currently, most of southern China has been invaded by S. invicta, so we conducted two S. invicta invasion surveys in pangolin habitats in Guangdong, and the results indicated that pangolin habitats in China have been invaded by S. invicta. Therefore, we suggest that S. invicta should be taken into account when developing conservation strategies for pangolins.
Improving an Alternative Glycerol Catabolism Pathway in Yarrowia lipolytica to Enhance Erythritol Production
Authors: Liu Feng , Tian Jing‐Tao , Wang Ya‐Ting , Zhao Lingxuan , Liu Zhijie , Chen Jun , Wei Liu‐Jing , Fickers Patrick , Hua Qiang 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTEngineering the glycerol‐3‐phosphate pathway could enhance erythritol production by accelerating glycerol uptake. However, little work has been conducted on the alternative dihydroxyacetone (DHA) pathway in Yarrowia lipolytica. Herein, this route was identified and characterized in Y. lipolytica by metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis. Moreover, the reaction catalyzed by dihydroxyacetone kinase encoded by dak2 was identified as the rate‐limiting step. By combining NHEJ‐mediated insertion mutagenesis with a push‐and‐pull strategy, Y. lipolytica strains with high‐yield erythritol synthesis from glycerol were obtained. Screening of a library of insertion mutants allows the identification of a mutant with fourfold increased erythritol production. Overexpression of DAK2 and glycerol dehydrogenase GCY3 together with gene encoding transketolase and transaldolase from the nonoxidative part of the pentose phosphate pathway led to a strain with further increased productivity with a titer of 53.1 g/L and a yield 0.56 g/g glycerol, which were 8.1‐ and 4.2‐fold of starting strain.
Numerical simulation of melting heat transport mechanism of Cross nanofluid with multiple features of infinite shear rate over a Falkner‐Skan wedge surface
Authors: Darvesh Adil , Santisteban Luis Jaime Collantes , Khan Shahzeb , Maiz Fethi Mohamed , AL Garalleh Hakim , Sánchez‐Chero Manuel 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe wedge geometry is a cornerstone in thermal transport mechanism, sepcially in scenarios involving fluid flow over surfaces. The current study emphasizes the melting heat transport mechanism in a Graphene oxide nanofluid over a Falkner‐Skan wedge geometry in the presence of multiple features of infinite shear rate accompanied with variable thermal transport characteristics and activation energy. Additionally, Cross model incorporated in the sytem, which predicts accurate behavior of intricate flow for better thermal simulation. The flow is governed by framed set of partial differential equations based on Naver stokes relations. A highly nonlinear system is altered in simplified non dimensional form using similarity variables. Numerical simulations are performed by an efficient MATLAB (bvp4c) solver scheme and the results of emerging parameters are compiled via different pictorial and tabular representations. The higher values of velocity ratio and melting heat parameter boost up the heat transfer rate over the Falkner‐Skan wedge geometry, whereas Brownian motion of nanofluid molecules arises by thermophoresis which declines the concentration profile. Numeric growth in the values of Schmidt number reduce the mass diffusivity, which declines the fluid temperature distribution. Likewise, Increasing value of Prandtl number causes reduction in thermal conductivity and produces temperature fall. It is worth noting that, this computational assessment is crucial in thermal processes because the results derived from this analysis enable the optimization of designs for better performance, efficiency, and control in practical applications.
PyBDR: Set-Boundary Based Reachability Analysis Toolkit in Python
Authors: Ding Jianqiang , Wu Taoran , Liang Zhen , Xue Bai 
Published: September 2024

AbstractWe present PyBDR, a Python reachability analysis toolkit based on set-boundary analysis, which centralizes on widely-adopted set propagation techniques for formal verification, controller synthesis, state estimation, etc. It employs boundary analysis of initial sets to mitigate the wrapping effect during computations, thus improving the performance of reachability analysis algorithms without significantly increasing computational costs. Beyond offering various set representations such as polytopes and zonotopes, our toolkit particularly excels in interval arithmetic by extending operations to the tensor level, enabling efficient parallel interval arithmetic computation and unifying vector and matrix intervals into a single framework. Furthermore, it features symbolic computation of derivatives of arbitrary order and evaluates them as real or interval-valued functions, which is essential for approximating behaviours of nonlinear systems at specific time instants. Its modular architecture design offers a series of building blocks that facilitate the prototype development of reachability analysis algorithms. Comparative studies showcase its strengths in handling verification tasks with large initial sets or long time horizons. The toolkit is available at https://github.com/ASAG-ISCAS/PyBDR.
Discourje: Run-Time Verification of Communication Protocols in Clojure — Live at Last
Authors: Jongmans Sung-Shik 
Published: September 2024

AbstractMultiparty session typing (MPST) is a formal method to make concurrent programming simpler. The idea is to use type checking to automatically prove safety (protocol compliance) and liveness (communication deadlock freedom) of implementations relative to specifications. Discourje is an existing run-time verification library for communication protocols in Clojure, based on dynamic MPST. The original version of Discourje can detect only safety violations. In this paper, we present an extension of Discourje to detect also liveness violations.
Stochastic Games for User Journeys
Authors: Kobialka Paul , Pferscher Andrea , Bergersen Gunnar R. , Johnsen Einar Broch , Tapia Tarifa Silvia Lizeth 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIndustry is shifting towards service-based business models, for which user satisfaction is crucial. User satisfaction can be analyzed with user journeys, which model services from the user’s perspective. Today, these models are created manually and lack both formalization and tool-supported analysis. This limits their applicability to complex services with many users. Our goal is to overcome these limitations by automated model generation and formal analyses, enabling the analysis of user journeys for complex services and thousands of users. In this paper, we use stochastic games to model and analyze user journeys. Stochastic games can be automatically constructed from event logs and model checked to, e.g., identify interactions that most effectively help users reach their goal. Since the learned models may get large, we use property-preserving model reduction to visualize users’ pain points to convey information to business stakeholders. The applicability of the proposed method is here demonstrated on two complementary case studies.
AGVTS: Automated Generation and Verification of Temporal Specifications for Aeronautics SCADE Models
Authors: Wang Hanfeng , Yang Zhibin , Zhou Yong , Wang Xilong , Deng Weilin , Li Wei 
Published: September 2024

AbstractSCADE is both a formal language and a model-based development environment, widely used to build and verify the models of safety-critical system (SCS). The SCADE Design Verifier (DV) provides SAT-based verification. However, DV cannot adequately express complex temporal specifications, and it may fail due to complexity problems such as floating numbers which are often used in the aeronautics domain. In addition, manually writing temporal specifications is not only time-consuming but also error-prone. To address these challenges, we propose an AGVTS method that can automate the task of generating temporal specifications and verifying aeronautics SCADE models. At first, we define a modular pattern language for precisely expressing Chinese natural language requirements. Then, we present a rule-based translation augmented with BERT, which translates restricted requirements into LTL and CTL. In addition, SCADE model verification is achieved by transforming it into nuXmv which supports both SMT-based and SAT-based verification. Finally, we illustrate a successful application of our methodology with an ejection seat control system, and convince our industrial partners of the usefulness of formal methods for industrial systems.
Code-Level Safety Verification for Automated Driving: A Case Study
Authors: Nenchev Vladislav , Imrie Calum , Gerasimou Simos , Calinescu Radu 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe formal safety analysis of automated driving vehicles poses unique challenges due to their dynamic operating conditions and significant complexity. This paper presents a case study of applying formal safety verification to adaptive cruise controllers. Unlike the majority of existing verification approaches in the automotive domain, which only analyze (potentially imperfect) controller models, employ simulation to find counter-examples or use online monitors for runtime verification, our method verifies controllers at code level by utilizing bounded model checking. Verification is performed against an invariant set derived from formal specifications and an analytical model of the required behavior. For neural network controllers, we propose a scalable three-step decomposition, which additionally uses a neural network verifier. We show that both traditionally implemented as well as neural network controllers are verified within minutes. The dual focus on formal safety and implementation verification provides a comprehensive framework applicable to similar cyber-physical systems.