With the increasing of copper consumption, the in-use stock of copper tends to increase. This paper used the “average use life method” to quantify the amount of copper in-use stock, and calculated the average age of in-use stock. It was indicated that the total in-use stock had an overall smooth trends, and reached its peak in 2007 was about 68.9 Mt (million tons), in addition, in-use stock per capita reached its peak ,234 kg/capita in 2001. The results demonstrated that during the period 1992-2002, the average age of copper in-use stock was continually decreased, but gradually increased since the year 2003. The fixed assets depreciation method used in this paper is applied to analyze depreciated copper in-use stock, and to analyze the relationship with economic indicator (GDP). It is demonstrated that it was inconsistent with the theory of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) before 2000, this might be the demand for copper in the service sector is greater than the reduced strength of alternatives. Finally, scenario analysis of future copper in-use stock and depreciated copper in-use stock per capita in the U.S. were presented. The corresponding average age of the in-use stock will have a slight rise in the next decade.

There exists a great potential for application in soil mechanics with the use of mechanistic models such as the finite element model, and other non-local models, such as the peridynamic model, since the soil mass can be modelled as a group of particles that interact with each other. In this work, we determine the bearing capacity of deep foundations where stresses are transmitted to deep deposits, which generally present better characteristics in terms of compressibility and shear strength. One of the main elements are driven piles, which must be previously designed, made and tested before their final use. In this work, a comparison with different methods is presented. The finite element method and the peridynamic model are used. Because the effect of consolidation was not taken into account, in these examples, the assumption is made that the structures are cemented in inert soil. Likewise, it is assumed that the water table has no influence on the simulations. Failure envelopes were observed where bonds between particles present high gradients of deformation and fracture. Bearing capacities were estimated and compared with those obtained from the Terzaghi and Meyerhof methods.

The Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) is often used to improve a system's reli-ability. This paper proposes a new approach that aims to overcome the most critical defects of the traditional FMEA. This new methodology combines the Entropy and Best Worst Method (BWM) methodology with the EDas and System Dynamics, FMECA: The EN-B-ED Dynamic FMECA. The main innovation’s point of the proposed work is the presence of an unknown factor (Cost), that allows to obtain an objective weighted factor, a risk index when a machine failure occurs. The criticality analysis has been carried out using software (Vensim PLE x64) to simulate System Dynamics models to identify corrective actions and evaluating the possible implementation of these ac-tions. The methodology proposed is applied to a case study in a relevant Italian com-pany in the agri-food sector.

The testing requirements of the active phased array antennas are very different from those of traditional passive antennas, due to its beam steering capability. Usually, each beam profile of the active phased array needs a separate radiation pattern test, which makes the overall testing time extremely long. Thus the traditional antenna test method can no longer meet the efficiency and cost requirements of new active phased array antennas test. In this paper, a fast test method tailored for phased array antennas is proposed that offers significantly reduced testing time at the expense of slight sacrifice of the accuracy. Using the simulated element pattern in array and ideal port excitation, the beam profile in any direction can be predicted by testing only a certain beam profile. Through theoretical derivation and experiments, the effectiveness of the method is verified, and the testing efficiency of the phased array antenna is demonstrated to be improved by ten times or even more.

The digital elevation model (DEM) is one of the key geospatial datasets used in many fields of engineering and science for countless applications. In this contribution, we assess the vertical accuracy of the Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS) World 3D-30m (AW3D30) DEM using the runway method (RWYM). The RWYM utilizes the longitudinal profiles of runways which are reliable and ubiquitous reference data. A reference dataset used in this project consists of 36 runways located at various points throughout the world. The same dataset was previously used to test the accuracy of WorldDEM^TM. Our study indicates that AW3D30 has a remarkably high RMSE of 1.78 m (one σ). However, while analyzing the results, it has become apparent that it also contains a widespread elevation anomaly. We conclude that this anomaly is the result of uncompensated sensor noise and the data processing algorithm (downsampling of the higher resolution data). We believe that this issue should be communicated to the user community. Also, we would like to note that the traditional accuracy assessment of a DEM, e.g., statistical assessment of the elevation differences = model – reference, does not allow for identification of these type of anomalies in a DEM.

Photoluminescent (PL) layers and electroluminescent (EL) systems have been extensively explored for constructing flat panels, screen monitors, and lighting systems. Due to their optical properties, our group is interested in the relationship between optical properties and dielectric constant is converted due to thermal change. In this study, we prepared a zinc sulfide (ZnS) fluorescent film on barium-calcium zirconium titanate ceramics. BCZT0.85 (Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3) and BCZT0.9 (Ba0.9Ca0.1Zr0.1Ti0.9O3) were prepared using the solid-state reaction method for the dielectric layer. The BCZT powders were calcined at 1200 and 1250 °C and dwell times of 2 and 4h. The phase formation and microstructure characteristics were then determined using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The dielectric behavior and optical properties rela-tionship was then studied to determine the composition and optimal conditions for further use as thermal detectors in electric vehicle battery packs. All BCZT powders exhibited the tetragonal phase, which was confirmed by JCPDS No. 01-079-2265. The dielectric constant increased with increasing calcining temperature or dwell time. The dielectric properties showed the BCZT0.85 ceramic sintered had the maximum dielectric constant of 15342 at calcine temperature of 1250 °C for 4h. Therefore, in this study, this condition was optimal for preparing the dielectric film. The maximum dielectric constant film is 42. The electroluminescence intensity of the samples increased in a temperature-dependent manner, with the highest EL intensity at 80 °C. Moreover, the electroluminescence intensity value was enhanced with the increase of the dielectric constant. Our results show promise for developing applications for Opto-thermal sensors.

In this study, the elastic properties of composite materials are investigated, considering the effects of separation of fiber-matrix joint boundary and matrix failure. In this method, by assuming periodic microstructure and using a linear approximation of the displacement field by applying continuity and equilibrium conditions, the composite fiber composite relation is determined. The effect of separation is assumed by introducing tangential and normal scalar parameters in the equations by assuming the displacement field jump at the common boundary. In order to express the effect of matrix micro-cracks, the fracture mechanics framework of continuous environments was used and the micro-cracks parallel to the fibers, perpendicular to the fibers and in the thickness direction with scalar parameters were expressed. At the end of the effect of these parameters the results are presented in graphs. The results show that the presence of defective joint at the joint boundary and the matrix micro-components reduce the hardness of the composite and thus it’s bearing load, which is more significant at the defective joint state.

Owing to its properties, boron carbide has been applied in scientific and industrial fields. For this reason, B4C powders should be characterized by high purity and homogeneity in grain size and shape. In this study, boron carbide was prepared using precursors obtained by a hydrothermal method, and the grain morphology of the product was investigated. Boric acid and the saccharides glucose, fructose, inulin, and sorbitol were used as the precursors. Two precursor dehydration methods, freeze-drying and recrystallization, were compared. The precursors were subjected to DLS grain size and FT-IR spectrophotometric studies, and SEM observations of the precursors and products were performed, confirming that boron carbide powders with submicron spherical grains could be successfully synthesized.

In common model testing practise, the measured values of the self propulsion test are split into the characteristics of the hull, the propeller and into the interaction factors. These coefficients are scaled separately to the respective full scale values and subsequently reassembled to give the power prediction. The accuracy of this power prediction depends {\em inter alia} on the accuracy of the measured values and the scaling procedure. An inherent problem of this approach is, that it is virtually impossible to verify each single step, because of the complex nature of the underlying problem. In recent years the scaling of the open-water characteristics of propeller model tests attracted a renewed interest, fuelled by competitive tests, which became the norm due to requests of the customer. This paper will show the influence of different scaling procedures on the predicted power. The prediction is compared to the measured trials data and the quality of the prediction will be judged. The procedures examined are the standard ITTC~1978 procedure plus derivatives of it: the Meyne, the strip method and the βᵢ-method.

Branching patterns are ubiquitous in nature, consequently over the years many researchers have tried to characterize the complexity of their structures. Due to their hierarchical nature and resemblance to fractal trees, they are often thought to have fractal properties, however their non-homogeneity (i.e., lack of strict self-similarity) is often ignored. In this paper we review and examine the use of the box-counting and sandbox methods to estimate the fractal dimensions of branching structures. We highlight the fact that these methods rely on an assumption of self-similarity that is not present in branching structures due to their non-homogeneous nature. Looking at the local slopes of the log-log plots used by these methods reveals the problems caused by the non-homogeneity. Finally, we examine the role of the canopies (endpoints or limit points) of branching structures in the estimation of their fractal dimensions.

Comparison with conventional reservoirs, the prediction of pressure in ultra-deep tight sandstone formations is difficult. The prediction of seismic pressure is more challenging than well logging pressure prediction. The main methods for seismic pressure prediction include equivalent depth method, Eaton method, Fillippone formula, and its modified versions. Among them, the Eaton method is widely used and has good effectiveness. However, this method relies on difficult-to-obtain normal compaction trend line, which leads to low prediction accuracy in space. To address this issue, a method combining the Eaton method and Collocated cokriging is proposed. The Eaton formula is used to predict formation pressure at the well, with compressional wave velocity as the covariate for predicting the main variable, formation pressure. By simulating the shear wave velocity based on seismic compressional wave velocity, the influence of various parameters on the prediction results is analyzed, and the accuracy of this method is verified by comparing it with other methods. The proposed method is then applied to predict formation pressure in the ultra-deep formations of the Junggar Basin. The simulation results show that the Collocated cokriging method achieves higher planar accuracy and better matches the experimental expectations in terms of prediction results. The application results also demonstrate the scientific effectiveness of the combined method, which has achieved good results in practical production applications.

Due to the tremendous progress in the automotive industry, the growth of the urban population, the number of vehicles is increasing and this creates parking challenges. Intelligent parking management systems offer an optimal solution for finding empty parking space so that drivers can quickly find their car parking space. To solve these problems, it is necessary to design an intelligent parking system, in addition to providing comfort to drivers, which is also economically viable. This paper proposes an intelligent multi-storey car parking system with the help of RFID technology and examining user preferences that can effectively solve car parking problems. The proposed method is a multi-objective decision-making method to reduce the problem of car parking, which is called MODM-RPCP. Therefore, the proposed MODM-RPCP method can allocate the best space for their stopping place by using the decision-making system and based on the priorities considered by the users. The simulation results show that the MODM-RPCP reduces the average booking time more than 19.2% and 27.1%, and decreases the response time of central parking management server more than 20.1% and 29.78% compared to MOGWOLA and ODPP approaches.

The development of mineral resources in China has gradually entered the stage of deep mining. Rock burst, collapse and other ground pressure disasters caused by deep high stress have become major hidden dangers restricting mine safety production. Microseismic monitoring technology is an important means of ground pressure risk prediction. In this paper, the wavelet coefficient threshold denoising method in time-frequency domain, STA/LTA method, AIC method, Skew and Kurtosis method are studied, and the automatic P-phase onset time picking model based on noise reduction and multiple detection indexes is established. Through the effect analysis of microseismic signals collected by microseismic monitoring system of coral Tungsten Mine in Guangxi, automatic P-phase onset time picking is realized. the reliability of the P-phase onset time picking method proposed in this paper based on noise reduction and multiple detection indexes is verified. The picking accuracy can still be guaranteed under the severe signal interference of background noise, power frequency interference and manual activity underground mine, Which is of great significance to the data processing and analysis of microseismic monitoring.

60\% of the global population is expected to be in cities by 2050. At the same time the climate is changing at an accelerated rate. In this short paper we discuss the conflation of these two phenomena and how it may change the cities of the future. We formulate this as an optimization problem that could help answer important questions such as where are they likely to be located? How are they to be powered? What would be their demand for mobility and how might this be met? How over or under ground might these cities be? This paper first looks at a historical paradigm of cities in the absence of the climate crisis and then proposes the new paradigm to look at cities of the future faced by the challenge of the climate change crisis.

Solving Linear equations with large number of variable contains many computations to be performed either iteratively or recursively. Thus it consumes more time when implemented in a sequential manner. There are many ways to solve the linear equations such as Gaussian elimination, Cholesky factorization, LU factorization, QR factorization. But even these methods when implemented on a sequential platform yield slower results as compared to a parallel platform where the time consumption is reduced considerably due to concurrent execution of instructions. The above mentioned linear equation solving methods can be implemented on the parallel platform using the direct approaches such as pipelining or 1D and 2D Partitioning approach. Vedic mathematics is a very ancient approach for solving mathematical problems. These Vedic mathematical approaches are well known for quicker and faster computation of mathematical problems. Vedic Mathematics provides a very different outlook towards the approach of solving linear Equation on parallel platform. It could be considered as a better approach for reducing space consumption and minimizing the number of algebraic operations involved in solving linear equation. In future Vedic Mathematics might serve as a viable solution for solving linear equation on parallel platform.

Clinical agreement between two quantitative measurements on a group of subjects is generally assessed with the help of the Bland-Altman (B-A) limits. The interpretation regarding agreement is based on whether B-A limits are within the pre-specified clinical tolerance. Thus, clinical tolerance limits are necessary for this method. We argue in this communication that such limits of clinical tolerance can be directly used for assessing agreement and plead that this nonparametric approach is simple and robust to the distribution pattern and outliers. Such direct use of clinical tolerance limits has more flexibility, and it is more effective in assessing the extent of agreement.

This article discusses the results of a series of experiments on pulse ultrasonic cure monitoring of carbon fiber reinforced plastics applied to the pultrusion process. The aim of this study is to validate the hypothesis that pulse ultrasonic cure monitoring can be applied a) for profiles having small cross sections such as 7x0.5 mm and b) within the environment of the pultrusion process. Ultrasonic transducers are adhesively bonded to the pultrusion tool as actuators and sensors. The time-of-flight and the amplitude of an ultrasonic wave are analyzed to deduce the current curing state of the epoxy matrix. The experimental results show that ultrasonic cure monitoring is indeed applicable even to very thin cross sections. However, significant challenges can be reported when the techniques are used during the pultrusion process.

The paper presents a method for determining the mutual impedance of two dipoles located on a multilayer dielectric structure. Determining the mutual impedance of linear antennas is a complex issue and we are unable to obtain an exact solution, it is influenced by many elements (location, dimensions, electrical parameters of the earth, thickness of the substrate, thickness and antenna conductivity, etc.) In the case of antennas on a dielectric substrate, the coupling analysis is even more complicated, because the operation of these antennas is significantly influenced by the occurrence of surface waves conducted through an open dielectric structure. The problem was solved by the method of moments using the Galerkin method as its special case. The work uses a method developed by Richmond for obtaining the elements of the impedance matrix, based on the concept of reaction between sections of the base and testing functions. Their mutual interaction was described by the reaction of the electric field caused by the current flowing through one dipole with the current flowing through the other dipole. Based on this analysis, the mutual impedance of two arbitrarily oriented dipoles located on a multilayer dielectric was determined, where the current distribution and antenna lengths are arbitrary. A computer program was developed that allowed to determine the mutual impedance for freely oriented dipoles.

Magnetometric Resistivity(MMR) Method, which can use the power supply method of the traditional apparent resistivity method to measure the magnetic field. At present, the application research abroad is relatively extensive, but the domestic(China) research on the application of the MMR method is very few, and it is not even well-known. This paper is based on the MMR theoretical method under the point source DC condition, combined with the abnormal potential method and the modified Biot-Savart law, and using the three-dimensional numerical calculation method of the finite difference method to calculate the abnormal potential field, electric field, and magnetic field on the matlab2018a platform. Calculate, realize the multi-physics simulation in the electromagnetic field through Matlab platform programming, and verify the correctness of the algorithm by the spherical anomaly model with an analytical solution. Through the visual simulation of the three-dimensional data volume of the multi-physics field in the electromagnetic field, we can better understand the response mechanism of the electromagnetic field under DC conditions and grasp their three-dimensional spatial distribution rules. It is hoped that the research in this article can help the research of MMR Personnel better use this method for exploration.

A series of water diversion projects to address the uneven distribution of water resources in China involve the construction of a large number of hydraulic tunnels. As the lining structure that maintains the stability and durability of the tunnels, it is prone to durability damage during the operation process, which in turn affects the water transmission safety and water supply capacity. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the durability of hydraulic tunnel lining structure. Considering the randomness and fuzziness of the factors affecting the durability of hydraulic tunnel lining structure, this paper proposes a comprehensive evaluation model based on the coupling of set-pair analysis and extension. The G1 method and the simple correlation function method are used to determine the subjective and objective weights of the evaluation indexes respectively, and the combination weight is assigned based on the principle of minimum entropy; the set-pair analysis principle is used to establish the linkage affiliation function, calculate the comprehensive linkage affiliation of the object to be evaluated, and the maximum affiliation principle is used to judge the durability level of the hydraulic tunnel lining structure. Finally, taking a section of hydraulic tunnel as an example, the model proposed in this paper is used to calculate its durability grade as Class III, with the set-pair potential SHI(H) = 7.5856, which is consistent with the actual engineering practice, and a comparative study is done in combination with the AHP-Extenics method. It is verified that the evaluation model can scientifically and reasonably evaluate the durability of hydraulic tunnel lining structure, providing a basis for subsequent maintenance and reinforcement.

The control of alumina morphology is crucial yet challenging for its various applications. Un-fortunately, traditional methods for preparing alumina particles suffer from several limitations such as irregular morphology, poor dispersibility, and restricted application areas. In this study, we develop a novel method for preparing spherical mesoporous alumina using chitin and Plu-ronic P123 as mixed templates. The effects of reaction temperature, time, and the addition of mixed templates on the phase structure, micromorphology, and optical absorption properties of the samples were investigated. The experimental results indicate that lower temperature and shorter reaction time facilitated the formation of spherical mesoporous alumina with excellent CO2 adsorption capacity. The periodic density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrate that both (110) and (100) surfaces of γ-Al2O3 can strongly adsorb CO2. The difference in the amount of CO2 adsorbed by Al2O3 is mainly due to the different surface areas, which give dif-ferent number of exposed active sites. This approach introduces a novel strategy for utilizing bi-ological compounds to synthesize spherical alumina and greatly enhances mesoporous alu-mina's application efficiency in adsorption fields. Moreover, the study explored the electro-chemical performance of the synthesized product using cyclic voltammetry and discovered im-proved loading of electrocatalysts and enhanced electrocatalytic activity.

The environmental pollution by microplastics (MPs) has become a growing concern, and measures are being taken in many countries. Long-term and extensive MPs investigations involving not only professional researchers but also the citizenry are needed to understand the pollution situation and to confirm the decreasing trend of MPs pollution as a result of pollution control measures. In this study, the author evaluated the accuracy of a simple method of investigating MPs on sandy beaches that can be conducted even by high school students. In a land survey using such simple tools as a tape measure and cardboard, 70% of the deviations were within approximately 20 cm when multiple surveys of approximately 20 m distance were performed. Even without heavy liquid, 89% of MPs could be recovered using only seawater. An investigation of MPs content by sampling 0.5 cm of the surface layer of sand could explain more than half of the MPs content when the sand was sampled to a depth of approximately 50 cm below the surface layer. A method in which the recovered MPs are not visually sorted but floating matter after boiling is considered as MPs is acceptable. If there was no concern about pumice contamination, the overestimation was within approximately 1.5 times. Simple laboratory equipment such as buckets, sieves, seawater, hot plates, dryers, and electronic balances could achieve lower limits of quantification of MPs of 13 mg-MPs/m2-sand and 2 mg-MPs/kg-sand.

The paper presents an adaptation of numerical solution of first order linear differential equation in fuzzy environment. The numerical method is re-established and studied with fuzzy concept to estimate its uncertain parameters whose values are not precisely known. Demonstrations of fuzzy solutions of the governing methods are carried out by the approaches, namely Modified Runge Kutta method and Runge Kutta Merson method. The results are compared with the exact solution which is found using generalized Hukuhara derivative (gH-derivative) concepts. Additionally, different illustrative examples and an application in industry of the methods are also undertaken with the useful table and graph to show the usefulness for attained to the proposed approaches.

This article presents the results of the consideration of the Bertrand paradox in terms of geometric probability theory. Although the method and conclusions of this article are straightforward, no equivalent studies were found when reviewing the relevant literature. This could be conditioned by the fact that the hypotheses presented in this research have low intuitive obviousness and, in contrast, could be due to the historically established agreement regarding the issue. This article shows that out of three classical solutions to the problem described by Bertrand, two methods are inconsistent with the claimed relative objectivity. Although the remaining solution (1/4) seems to be the most correct, we cannot claim that we have exhaustively ruled out all aspects that could reduce its adequacy to solve the problem.

The deep Cretaceous tight sandstone in Kuqa Depression of Tarim foreland basin is an ultra-low porosity and ultra-deep gas-bearing reservoir, which is characterized by small pores, fine throats, and poor connectivity. The wireline logging responses are so complex, and especially, it is difficult to identify fluid types from resistivity logs. Based on acoustic, density, and neutron logs response differences in gas and water layers, effective fluid sensitivity factors are constructed for gas layer identification. From conventional logs, acoustic-neutron porosity difference, density-neutron porosity difference, and triple-porosity ratio are all sensitive parameters to the gas layer. From the NMR logging response mechanism, the density and NMR porosity difference, and T2 geometric mean of the movable fluid are also two sensitive parameters to the gas layer. Based on these parameters, a series of fluid typing charts are constructed and their adaptabilities are analyzed and compared. By contrast, NMR log interpretation is better, and triple-porosity comprehensive method from conventional logs is also effective when NMR logging is not available. Finally, the comprehensive fluid typing strategy by combining some methods for ultra-low porosity tight sandstone is summarized and optimized. This study is another alternative for fluid identification using non-electrical logs.

The launch of the RadioAstron space radio telescope provides a unique opportunity to study the extreme high brightness temperature of Active Galactic Nuclei (AGNs) with unprecedented long baselines of up to 28 Earth diameters. A coordinated ground-based flux density monitoring of RadioAstron targets is essential to determine the effect of interstellar scintillation (ISS) on the Space Very Long Baseline Interferometry (SVLBI) visibilities. Moreover, a combination/comparison of scintillation with SVLBI observations is expected to reveal the relative influence of source brightness temperature, compactness, and properties of the interstellar medium on the observed variability at centimeter wavelengths. In 2014 we started a RadioAstron target triggered flux monitoring with the Effelsberg 100-m radio telescope in support of this SVLBI mission. A total of 112 targets were observed during the five-session monitoring performed so far. In this paper we present a statistical study on the short-term flux density variability of the sample, which is focused on the variability characteristics and derived physical properties of the observed sources.

This paper aims to analyze arbitrarily loaded isotropic rectangular thin plates with two opposite edges supported (simply supported or clamped), from which one or both are clamped, and the other edges have arbitrary support conditions. Rectangular thin plates with two opposite edges simply supported are routinely analyzed using for the deflection the simple trigonometric series of Lévy or the double trigonometric series of Navier, while the loads are expanded in Fourier series. In this paper the flexibility method (or force method) of the linear beam theory was applied whereby the unknowns were the bending moments along the opposite edges; in this regard, the primary system was the plate simply supported along the above-mentioned opposite edges and subjected to the external loads, system solved using the Lévy solution, and the redundant system was the plate simply supported along the opposite edges and subjected to bending moments along those edges. In the redundant system, a modified Lévy solution was introduced to account for the edge moments. The compatibility equations (vanishing of the slopes at selected positions of the opposite edges) were set to determine the unknowns and so the efforts in the plate. The results obtained were in good agreement with the exact results.

Over the last few decades, ocean research and exploration have made underwater mechanical systems a necessity. Underwater vehicles provide a new kind of marine platforms that could represent a great necessity in many areas of oceanographic research. Until now, the underwater vehicles come in a verity of shapes, sizes and means of propulsion. Depending on these characteristics, the type and mission of the vehicle are also determined. The underwater robots are used for different inspection and intervention missions in e.g. the oil and gas industry, ocean science research. Due to multiple applications to which the vehicle can participate, it can be successfully used and to determine methods of re-use of marine energy. Environmental mapping provides accurate information about the main areas of interest of the energy, as well as the exploitation possibilities of that. Most of the time, biomimetic robots were inspired their senso structure, from different kind of animals, such as insects, fish and birds. Nowadays, the concept of a underwater robotic vehicles capable to move independently, autonomously or remotely, has a great potential and a large application. This is the reason that the last studies have been directed on biomimetic robots. The fish and other underwater animals have evolved superior swimming capabilities in many ways and represent a starting point to explain the fluid-mechanical principles. Furthermore, the underwater animals develop and achieve extraordinary propulsion efficiencies, acceleration and maneuverability. They can also achieve high speed under water. Implanting and creating a vehicle through a biomimetic approach reduces the energy used to maneuver the vehicle as it can automatically correct its position and displacement. The paper presents an examination of the state of biomimetic robotic fishes, underlining the reason why bio-inspiration can help us in the underwater locomotion technology.

In this paper, Akbari-Ganji's and Taylor series methods are applied to find analytical solutions to nonlinear differential equations that arise in an immobilized-cell photobioreactor. Approximate analytical expressions for substrate and product concentrations and both liquid and gas phases for various parameter values are derived using both methods. Efficiency, accuracy, and convergence of the two methods relative to highly accurate numerical methods are investigated to establish reliable profiles of these two methods for solving general nonlinear equations that model various physical phenomena. Numerical simulations are presented to validate the theoretical investigations.

Cancer diseases lead to the second-highest death rate all over the world. The dynamics of invasion of cancer cells into the human body tissues and metastasis are the main causes of death in patients with cancer. This study deals with theoretical investigation of the dynamics of invasion of cancer cells for tumour growths in human body tissues using discretized Cahn-Hilliard, concentration and reaction-diffusion equations which were solved by Finite Difference Method with the aid of MATLAB computer software. A Crank-Nicolson numerical scheme was developed for the discretized model equations. The numerical result obtained was used to describe the dynamics of cancer invasion of tissues with respect to cancer cells density on tumour growth, turbulence and mobility and equilibrium between charge and discharge of cancer cells. The results of the study provide new insights into combating cancer disease by providing mitigating and intervention measures to this major health problem.

Understanding how climatic variables impact the reference evapotranspiration (ET0) is essential for water resource management, especially considering potential fluctuations due to climate change. Therefore, we used the Sobol method to analyze the spatiotemporal variations of Penman-Monteith ETo sensitivity to the climatic variables: downward solar radiation, relative humidity, maximum and minimum air temperature, and wind speed. The Sobol’s indices variances were estimated by Monte Carlo integration, setting the sample limits to 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles of the daily data of 33 automatic weather stations located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The results of the Sobol analysis indicate considerable spatiotemporal variations in the sensitivity of ETo to climatic variables and their interactions. The dominant climatic variable responsible for ET0 fluctuations in Mato Grosso is incident solar radiation, which has a more significant impact in humid environments, as observed in the areas of the Amazon biome in the state. Air relative humidity and wind speed have higher sensitivity indices during the dry season in the areas of the Cerrado biome (Savanna) in Mato Grosso. Our findings show that changes in solar radiation, relative humidity, and wind speed cannot be ignored when analyzing changes in reference evapotranspiration.

We firstly present two popular space discretization models of the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation in dark solitons motion : the Direct-Discrete model and the Ablowitz-Ladik model. Applying the midpoint scheme to the space discretization models, we get two time-space discretization models: the Crank-Nicolson method and the New-Difference method. Secondly, we demonstrate that the solutions of the two space discretization models converge to the solution of the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation. Also, we prove that the convergence order of the two time-space discretization models are O(h2+τ2) in discrete L2-norm error estimates. Finally, the numerical experiments agree well with the proven theoretical results.

Shear deflection effects are traditionally neglected in most structural system identification methods. Unfortunately, this assumption might lead to significant errors in some structures, like deep beams. Although some inverse analysis methods based on the stiffness matrix method including shear deformation effects have been presented in the literature, none of these methods is able to deal with actual rotations in their formulations. Recently, the observability techniques, one of the first methods for the inverse analysis of structures included the shear effects into the system of equations. In this approach, the effects of shear rotation are neglected. When actual rotations on site are used to estimate the mechanical properties in the inverse analysis, it can result in serious errors in the observed properties. This characteristic might be especially problematic in structures such as deep beams where only rotations can be measured. To solve this problem and increase the observability techniques' applicability, this paper proposes a new approach to include shear rotations into the inverse analysis by observability techniques. This modification is based on the introduction of a new iterative process. To illustrate the applicability and potential of the proposed method, the inverse analysis of several examples of growing complexity is presented.

This paper focuses on robust multi-criteria traffic network equilibrium problems with path capacity constraints. The concepts of robust vector equilibrium and robust vector equilibrium with respect to worst case are introduced, respectively. To generate a subset of robust vector equilibrium, an equivalent min-max optimization problem is constructed. In addition, a direct search algorithm, in which the step size without derivatives and redundant parameters, for solving this min-max problem is proposed. To find a subset of robust vector equilibrium with respect to worst case, an equivalent smoothing optimization problem based on a variant version of ReLU activation function is established. Numerical experiments are also presented to expound the advantages of the algorithms.

Linear elastic fracture modeling coupled with empirical material tension data result in good quantitative agreement with experimental measurements of fracture failure for both brittle and tough epoxy nanocomposites. The nanocomposites comprise diglycidyl ethers of bisphenol A cured with O,O’ bis (2-aminopropylpropylene glycol) (Jeffamine D230) and doped with rubber nanoparticles of varying concentrations. Toughness, critical load, and critical displacement in quasi-static single edge-notched three-point bending are predicted accurately using both surface-based cohesive zone (CZS) and extended finite element (XFEM) methods implemented in Abaqus software. Fracture initiation within a crack is taken at the yield stress from uniaxial tension data. Prediction of fracture processes using a generalized truncated linear traction-separation law was significantly improved by considering the case of a linear softening function. There are no adjustable parameters in the XFEM model. The CZS model requires only optimization of the element displacement at fracture parameter. Thus, these continuum methods describe these materials in mode I fracture with a minimum number of independent parameters.

The calculation of the isobaric heat capacities of the liquid and solid phase of molecules at 298.15 K is presented, applying a universal computer algorithm based on the atom-groups additivity method, using refined atom groups. The atom groups are defined as the molecules' constituting atoms and their immediate neighbourhood. In addition, the hydroxy group of alcohols are further subdivided to take account of the different intermolecular interactions of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols. The evaluation of the groups' contributions has been carried out by means of a fast Gauss-Seidel fitting calculus using experimental data from literature. Plausibility has been tested immediately after each fitting calculation using a 10-fold cross-validation procedure. For the heat capacity of liquids, the respective goodness of fit of the direct (R2) and the cross-validation calculations (Q2) of 0.998 and 0.9975, and the respective standard deviations of 8.2 and 9.16 J/mol/K, together with a medium absolute percentage deviation (MAPD) of 2.69%, based on the experimental data of 1133 compounds, proves the excellent predictive applicability of the present method. The statistical values for the heat capacity of solids are only slightly inferior: for R2 and Q2, the respective values are 0.9915 and 0.9875, the respective standard deviations are 12.19 and 14.13 J/mol/K and the MAPD is 4.65%, based on 732 solids. The predicted heat capacities for a series of liquid and solid compounds has been directly compared to those received by a complementary method based on the "true" molecular volume [1] and their deviations elucidated.

A considerable number of patients with angina or myocardial ischemia have no significant coronary artery disease on invasive angiography. In recent years, several steps towards a better comprehension of the pathophysiology of these conditions, angina or ischemia with non-obstructive coronary arteries (ANOCA/INOCA) have been made. Nevertheless, several gaps in knowledge still remain. This review is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of ANOCA and INOCA with a particular focus on pathophysiology, recent diagnostic innovations, gaps in knowledge and treatment modalities.

Chlorogenic acid or 5-Caffeoylquinic acid is a polyphenolic component present in coffee and its by-products. Chlorogenic acid has been shown to exert biological properties, particularly in relation to glucose and lipid metabolism, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities, among others. Due to its importance, it is necessary to evaluate the reliability of the analytical method for its determination in complex matrices such as food. In this work, different methods of chlorogenic acid extraction in coffee Silverskin were studied, as well as its quantification by HPLC. The results showed that the method of extraction with a mixture of methanol:water (3:1 v/v) in an ultrasonic bath, favored the recovery of chlorogenic acid with a recovery of 77.44%. The instrument detection limit for chlorogenic acid was 3.311 µg/mL and the quantification limit was 11.037 µg/mL. For coffee Silverskin, the concentration obtained of chlorogenic acid by the three extraction methods evaluated was in the range of 57 to 224 mg/kg of coffee silverskin (dry basis).

Lithium-rich layered oxides is one of the most perspective candidates for cathode materials of lithium ion battery, because of its high discharge capacity. However, there are some disadvantages of uneven composition, voltage decay, and poor rate capacity, which are closely related to the preparation method. Here, 0.5Li2MnO3·0.5LiMn0.8Ni0.1Co0.1O2 were successfully prepared by sol-gel and oxalate co-precipitation methods. A systematic analysis of the materials shows that the 0.5Li2MnO3·0.5LiMn0.8Ni0.1Co0.1O2 prepared by the oxalic acid co-precipitation method has the most stable layered structure and the best electrochemical performance. The initial discharge specific capacity is 261.6 mAh·g-1 at 0.05 C, and the discharge specific capacity is 138 mAh·g-1 at 5 C. The voltage decay is only 210 mV, and the capacity retention is 94.2% after 100 cycles at 1 C. The suppression of voltage decay can be attributed to the high nickel content and uniform element distribution. In addition, tightly packed porous spheres help to reduce lithium ion diffusion energy and improve the stability of the layered structure, thereby improving cycle stability and rate capacity. This conclusion provides a reference for designing high energy density lithium-ion batteries.

This mixed-methods research article explores the influence of ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art AI language model, on the development of maladaptive learning habits in users. The study combines quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive understanding of how engaging with ChatGPT may inadvertently foster detrimental learning behaviors. Findings suggest that while ChatGPT can be a valuable learning tool, it has the potential to exacerbate or create bad learning habits if not used mindfully.

We hypothesized that biofilm production occurs on stainless steel when incubated with tissue specimens in thioglycolate broth media (TBM). In a diabetic foot infection (DFI) cohort, applying the Kirschner wire and conventional methods were more sensitive than applying only the latter (CI 90%; 0.167 versus 0.375).

Human and Computer interaction has been a part of our day-to-day life. Speech is one of the essential and comfortable ways of interacting through devices as well as a human being. The device, particularly smartphones have multiple sensors in camera and microphone, etc. speech recognition is the process of converting the acoustic signal to a smartphone as a set of words. The efficient performance of the speech recognition system highly enhances the interaction between humans and machines by making the latter more receptive to user needs. The recognized words can be applied for many applications such as Commands & Control, Data entry, and Document preparation. This research paper highlights speech recognition through ANN (Artificial Neural Network). Also, a hybrid model is proposed for audio-visual speech recognition of the Tamil and Malay language through SOM (Self-organizing map0 and MLP (Multilayer Perceptron). The Effectiveness of the different models of NN (Neural Network) utilized in speech recognition will be examined.

Blockchain-based currencies or cryptocurrencies have become a global phenomenon known to most people as a disruptive technology, and a new investment vehicle. However, due to their decentralized nature, regulating these markets has presented regulators with difficulties in finding a balance between nurturing innovation, and protecting consumers. The growing concerns about illicit activity have forced regulators to seek new ways of detecting, analyzing, and ultimately policing public blockchain transactions. Extensive research on machine learning, and transaction graph analysis algorithms has been done to track suspicious behaviour. However, having a macro view of a public ledger is equally important before pursuing a more fine-grained analysis. Benford’s law, the law of first digit, has been extensively used as a tool to discover accountant frauds (many other use cases exist). The basic motivation that drove our research presented in this paper was to test he applicability of the well established method to a new domain, in this case the identification of anomalous behavior using Benford’s law conformity test to the cryptocurrency domain. The research focused on transaction values in all major cryptocurrencies. A suitable time-period was identified that was long enough to sport sufficiently large number of observations for Benford’s law conformity tests and was also situated long enough in the past so that the anomalies were identified and well documented. The results show that most of the cryptocurrencies that did not conform to Benford’s law had well documented anomalous incidents, the first digits of aggregated transaction values of all well known cryptocurrency projects were conforming to Benford’s law. Thus the proposed method is applicable to the new domain.

As the interface between human and machine becomes blurred, hydrogel incorporated electronics and devices have emerged to be a new class of flexible/stretchable electronic and ionic devices due to their extraordinary properties, such as soft, mechanically robust and biocompatible. However, heat dissipation in these devices could be a critical issue and remains unexplored. Here, we report the experimental measurements and equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations of thermal conduction in polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogels. The thermal conductivity of PAAm hydrogels can be modulated by both the crosslinking density and water content in hydrogels. The crosslinking density dependent thermal conductivity in hydrogels varies from 0.33 to 0.51 Wm^-1K^-1, giving a 54% enhancement. We attribute the crosslinking effect to the competition between the increased conduction pathways and the enhanced phonon scattering effect. Moreover，water content can act as filler in polymers which lead to nearly 40% enhancement in thermal conductivity in PAAm hydrogels with water content vary from 23 to 88 wt%. Furthermore，we find the thermal conductivity of PAAm hydrogel is insensitive to temperature in the range of 25 ^oC – 40 ^oC. Our study offers fundamental understanding of thermal transport in soft materials and provides design guidance for hydrogel-based devices.

Summary— Introduction: HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks and destroys one type of white blood cell in particular, the CD4 lymphocytes, which are responsible for the body's immune response. This weakens the immune system to such an extent that it can no longer fight other viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi and tumours. Methods: We investigated the potential biological role of the natural compound Polydatin (or piceid) using SwissDock, a web service to predict the molecular interactions that can occur between a target protein and a small molecule. Discussion: For the first time, we have investigated the role of polydatin against HIV-1 protease and HIV-2 protease through a computational approach by comparing their estimated ΔG values (kcal/mol) and the nature of the interactions between the residues in the catalytic centre of the HIV proteases.Conclusion: From these simulations, Polydatin has excellent physical properties and an excellent estimated ΔG value (kcal/mol) of about -9.9 kcal/mol against HIV-2 protease and ΔG value (kcal/mol) of about -9.5 kcal/mol against HIV-1 protease. In addition, Polydatin was able to bind to two key amino acids of the catalytic triad sequence common to asparagine proteases (Asp25 and Gly27)

The composite coatings prepared by mixing the 5 wt.% of polyaniline with commercial alkyd-based paint are applied on carbon steel. The polyaniline emeraldine chloride salt is prepared by procedure recommended by IUPAC, deprotonated by ammonia hydroxide, and reprotonated with the sulfamic, succinic, citric, and acetic acids with different doping degrees or oxidation states. The steel samples with base and composite coatings are immersed in 3% NaCl and the corrosion current density is determined after 96 h in-site using ASTM 1,10-phenanthroline method. The samples are also inspected by the optical microscope. It is shown that composite coatings reduce the possibility of blister formations and delamination. The corrosion current density and the appearance of the corrosion products, which area is determined by ImageJ softer, closely follow the initial oxidation state of the polyaniline. The role of the initial state of the polyaniline is discussed. It is suggested that such behavior could be connected with the oxygen reduction reaction mechanism that proceeds mainly via two electron paths on the polyaniline particles, releasing a much smaller amount of hydroxyl ions, responsible for the delamination and blister formations of the commercial coatings.

The article presents a new scalable iterative method for linear programming called the “apex method”. The key feature of this method is constructing a path close to optimal on the surface of the feasible region from a certain starting point to the exact solution of linear programming problem. The optimal path refers to a path of minimum length according to the Euclidean metric. The apex method is based on the predictor-corrector framework and proceeds in two stages: quest (predictor) and target (corrector). The quest stage calculates a rough initial approximation of linear programming problem. The target stage refines the initial approximation with a given precision. The main operation used in the apex method is an operation that calculates the pseudoprojection, which is a generalization of the metric projection to a convex closed set. This operation is used both in the quest stage and in the target stage. A parallel algorithm using a Fejér mapping to compute the pseudoprojection is presented. An analytical estimation of the parallelism degree of this algorithm is obtained. Also, an algorithm implementing the target stage is given. The convergence of this algorithm is proven. An experimental study of the scalability of the apex method on a cluster computing system is described. The results of applying the apex method to solve problems from the Netlib-LP repository are presented.

In this paper, we aim to address the challenge of airflow interference during fault detection in high-speed train bogies by introducing a flow field and investigating the characteristics of the sound field distribution of critical components under its influence. This approach overcomes the limitation observed in previous studies that ignored the impact of the flow field. Furthermore, we evaluate and compare various layouts for inter-track acoustic sensor arrays. The proposed sensing methods hold significant practical engineering value, and the collected data serves as a valuable reference for acquiring acoustic signals from key bogie components in future research.

The paper presents the identification and classification of steel cord failures in the conveyor belt core based on an analysis of a two-dimensional image of magnetic field changes recorded using the Diagbelt system around scanned failures in the test belt. The obtained set of identified changes in images obtained for numerous devices parameters settings were the base for statistical analysis. It makes it possible to determine the Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient between the parameters being changed and the image of the failures. In the second stage of the research, artificial intelligence methods were applied to construct a multilayer neural network (MLP) and to teach its appropriate identification of damage. In both methods were used the same data sets, which made it possible to compare methods.

In this paper, we gave an attack on RSA when Euler function has small multiplicative inverse modulo "e" and the prime sum p+q is of the form p+q=2^nk_0+k_1 where n is a given positive integer and k_0 and k_1 are two suitably small unknown integers using sublattice reduction techniques and Coppersmith's methods for finding small roots of modular polynomial equations. When we compare this method with an approach using lattice based techniques, this procedure slightly improves the bound and reduces the lattice dimension.

In the Formula Student Racing Car, the anti-deformation ability of the frame will affect the four-wheel positioning parameters of the racing car, and then affect the handling and stability performance of the racing car. The quality of the frame directly determines the power and economy of the racing car, so the performance of the frame is very important to the performance of the race. In order to improve the performance of the frame and reduce the total weight of the frame, the research on the lightweight design of the frame is particularly important. In this paper, based on the variable density method, the global topology optimization of the frame is carried out to obtain the distribution of the frame material, realize the efficient use of the material, and improve the torsional stiffness of the frame. Based on the adjoint variable method, the sensitivity analysis of the frame is carried out. According to the sensitivity analysis results, the size of the frame is optimized. The total mass of the frame is reduced by 12.8 %, and the performance of the maximum displacement and maximum stress is improved. The lightweight design of the frame is realized as a whole.

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) were synthesized using an eco-friendly method and their antimicrobial and biocompatibility properties were determined. The supernatant and extract of the fungus Ganoderma sessile yielded small, quasi-spherical NPs with an average size of 4.5 ± 1.9 nm and 5.2 ± 2.1 nm, respectively. CuONPs showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for E. coli and S. aureus was 15.9 µg/mL for nanoparticles (NPs) using the supernatant (CuONPs-S) and 16.5 µg/ml for NPs using the extract (CuONPs-E). Lower concentrations were required for P. aeruginosa inhibition. Ultrastructural analysis revealed the presence of the small CuONPs all through the bacterial cells. Finally, the toxicity of CuONPs was analyzed in three mammalian cell lines: hepatocytes (AML-12), macrophages (RAW 264.7) and kidney (MDCK). Low concentrations (<15 µg/ml) of CuONPs-E were non-toxic to kidney cells and macrophages, and the hepatocytes were the most susceptible to CuONPs-S. The results obtained suggest that the CuONPs synthesized using the extract of the fungus G. sessile, could be further evaluated for the treatment of superficial infectious diseases.

Terpenoids, including monoterpenoids (C₁₀), norisoprenoids (C₁₃) and sesquiterpenoids (C₁₅), constitute a large group of plant-derived naturally occurring secondary metabolites which chemical structure is highly diverse. A quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) model to predict the terpenoids toxicity and to evaluate the influences of their chemical structure, was developed in this study, by assessing the toxicity of 27 terpenoid standards using Gram-negative bioluminescent Vibrio fischeri, in real time. Under the test conditions, at concentration of 1 µM, the terpenoids showed a toxicity level lower than five %, with exception of geraniol, citral, (S)-citronellal, geranic acid, (±)-α-terpinyl acetate and geranyl acetone. Moreover, the standards tested displayed a toxicity level higher than 30 % at concentration of 50 to 100 µM, with the exception of (+)-valencene, eucalyptol, (+)-borneol, guaiazulene, β-caryophellene and linalool oxide. Regarding the functional group, the terpenoids toxicity was observed in the following order: alcohol > aldehyde ~ ketone > ester > hydrocarbons. CODESSA software was employed to develop the QSAR models based on the correlation of terpenoids toxicity and a pool of descriptors related to each chemical structure. The QSAR models, based on t-test values, showed that terpenoids toxicity was mainly attributed to geometric (e.g., asphericity) and electronic (e.g., max partial charge for a C atom [Zefirov's PC]) descriptors. Statistically, the most significant overall correlation was the four-parameter equation with training and test coefficient correlation higher than 0.810 and 0.535, respectively, and square coefficient of cross-validation (Q²) higher than 0.689. According to the obtained data, the QSAR models are a suitable and a rapid tool to predict the terpenoids toxicity in a diversity of food products.

The gold nanoparticle (AuNP) was synthesized using the well-known Turkevich method. This article explains didactic step-by-step of the synthesis, showing pictures of the entire process, including a well-explained mechanism and characterization study. The synthesis includes the reduction of NaAuCl4 using sodium citrate in high temperature (around 90 ⁰C). The two main mechanisms used to explain the AuNP synthesis via Turkevich method were explained. The first mechanism considerate that a nanowire intermediary and the other proposed that aggregate intermediates are not formed at any time during the synthesis. The materials (NaAuCl4 and AuNP) were characterized by UV-Vis, SEM, AFM, XRD and DLS. The UV-Vis exhibit an absorption maximum in 521 nm because the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption band of AuNP. The SEM images of NaAuCl4 presents crystals with cubic shapes, while the AuNP presents average particle size of about 16-25 nm and particles that appear mainly spherical. To confirm the particles shapes, the AFM was conducted and it was possible to observe clearly the individual spherical nanoparticles. The XRD of AuNP showed the four main characteristic peaks for silver corresponding to (111), (200), (220) and (311) planes, confirming the cubic (FCC) silver. The DLS presented the average particle size of 3.3 ± 0.9 nm and the polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.574. In summary, the AuNP was synthesized using a simple and fast method. The result was a spherical and ultrasmall particle, that can be used is several applications.

β-Ga2O3 is a well-known semiconductor material for power devices and other applications. Recently, β-Ga2O3 has also been reported as a scintillator material with a light yield of approximately 8400 ph./MeV, scintillation decay time of &lt;1 μs, and density of 6.44 g/cm3. In this study, 2-inch diameter β-Ga2O3 single crystals were prepared by oxide crystal growth using the cold crucible (OCCC) method under various oxygen partial pressures. In the OCCC method, as in the cold crucible method, a high frequency is applied directly to the oxide materials, which are heated and melted, and the melt is held by the outermost solid material itself that is cooled by water using a copper hearth. In the OCCC method, crystal growth is performed while rotating the seed crystal, as in the Czochralski method, to increase the crystal diameter. The optical properties and radiation responses of the crystals grown under various oxygen partial pressures were evaluated.

Optimization of Magnetohydrodynamics parameters on the velocity profile and temperature distribution of incompressible fluid flow on a porous channel was evaluated. The fluid flow was considered to be unsteady, incompressible and flowing in 2-D in porous channel. The effects of magnetic parameter, Darcy’s number and fluid pressure on velocity profiles, and the effect of variable viscosity and Eckert number on temperature distribution in incompressible fluid flow were determined. The flow was considered to be in a channel running along the x-axis on which the magnetic field exist and finally along the y-axis on the porous part of the channel. The resulting model equations were solved by Finite Difference Method (FDM) in MATLAB software. Analysis of results indicated that increasing Darcy’s number and fluid pressure leads to increase in fluid velocity profile, while increasing magnetic parameter decreases fluid velocity profile. Also, it was observed that increase in both Eckert number and fluid viscosity lead to increase in temperature distribution. Optimization in temperature was achieved by increasing the magnetic field while viscosity was optimized by increasing the length of the porous part of the channel. This study will helpful to contribute alternative equations and methodology to engineering and in factories where getting the MHD parameters optimally is the main objective, particularly on temperature, velocity and pressure.

We compared the performance of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization followed by a time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry and genomic DNA extraction followed by sequencing, assembly, and alignment for phylogenetic assessment (Genomics method). We collected the samples from four contaminated rivers in the Dominican Republic and analyzed MALDI-TOF efficacy and accuracy for identifying bacteria in the samples. We evaluated the results for both methods (MALDI-TOF and Genomics) and reported a similarity percentage between each method's results. The MALDI-TOF method had a 72.41\% of coincidence with the Genomics method. This could have been sequence contamination found in the Genomics method. When it was later filtered, the result's coincidence rate went up to 90\%.

Biodiesel has caught the attention of many researchers because it has great potential to be sustainable fossil fuel substitute. Biodiesel has non-toxic and renewable nature and has been proven to emit less amount of environmentally harmful emissions such as hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO), as well as smoke particles during combustion. Problems related to global warming caused by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions could also be solved by utilizing biodiesel as a daily energy source. However, the expensive cost of biodiesel production, mainly because of the cost of natural feedstock, holds the potential of biodiesel commercialization. The selection of natural sources of biodiesel should be made with observations from economic, agricultural, and technical perspectives to obtain one feasible biodiesel with superior characteristics. This review paper presents a detailed overview of various natural sources, their physicochemical properties, as well as the performance, emission, and combustion characteristics of biodiesel when used in a diesel engine. The recent progress in studies about natural feedstocks and manufacturing methods used in biodiesel production were evaluated in detail. Finally, the findings of the present work reveal that transesterification is currently the most superior and commonly used biodiesel production method compared to other methods available.

Biphasic oily/water nanoemulsions have been proposed as delivery systems for the intranasal administration of curcumin (CUR) and quercetin (QU), due to their high drug entrapment efficiency, the possibility of simultaneous drug administration and protection of the encapsulated compounds from the degradation. To better understand the physicochemical and biological performance of the selected formulation simultaneously co-encapsulating CUR and QU, a stability test of the compounds mixture was firstly carried out using X-ray powder diffraction and thermal analyses, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA). The determination and quantification of the encapsulated active compounds was then required being an essential tool for the development of innovative nanomedicines. Thus, a new HPLC–UV/Vis method for the simultaneous determination of CUR and QU in the nanoemulsions and their evaluation in stability studies in simulated biological fluids was developed and validated. The X-ray diffraction analyses demonstrated that no interaction between the mixture of active ingredients, if any, is strong enough to take place in the solid state. Moreover, the thermal analysis demonstrated that the CUR and QU are stable in the nanoemulsion production temperature range. The proposed analytical method for the simultaneous quantification of the two actives was selective and linear for both compounds in the range of 0.5 – 12.5 µg/mL (R2 &gt; 0.9997), precise (RSD below 3%), robust and accurate (recovery 100 ± 5 %). The method was validated in accordance with ICH Q2 R1 “Validation of Analytical Procedures” and CDER-FDA 2validation of chromatographic methods” guideline. Furthermore, the low detection (LOD &lt; 0.005 µg/mL for CUR and &lt;0.14 µg/mL for QU) and quantification limits (LOQ &lt; 0.017 µg/mL for CUR and &lt; 0.48 µg/mL for QU) of the method were suitable for the application to drug release and permeation studies planned for the development of the nanoemulsions. The method was then applied for the determination of nanoemulsions CUR and QU encapsulation efficiencies (&gt; 99%), as well as for the stability studies of the two compounds in simulated biological fluids over time. The proposed method represents, to our knowledge, the only method for the simultaneous quantification of CUR, and QU in nanoemulsions.

Porous materials can be characterized by well-trained neural networks. In this study, fibrous paper-type gas diffusion layers were trained with artificial data created by a stochastic geometry model. The features of the data were calculated by means of transport simulations using the Lattice–Boltzmann method based on stochastic micro-structures. A convolutional neural network was developed that can predict the permeability and tortuosity of the material, through-plane and in-plane. The characteristics of real data, both uncompressed and compressed, were predicted. The data was represented by reconstructed images of different sizes and image resolutions. Image artifacts are also a source of potential errors in the prediction. The Kozeny–Carman trend was used to evaluate the prediction of permeability and tortuosity of compressed real data. Using this method, it was possible to decide if the predictions on compressed data were appropriate.

The identification of the most rockfall-prone areas is the first step of the risk assessment procedure. In the case of land and urban planning, hazard and risk analyses involve large portions of territory and thus preliminary methods are preferred to define specific zones where more detailed computations are needed. To reach this goal, we developed the QGIS-based plugin QPROTO, able to quantitatively compute rockfall time-independent hazard over a three-dimensional topography on the basis of the Cone Method. This is obtained by combining kinetic energy, passing frequency and detachment propensity of each rockfall source. QPROTO requires the definition of few angles (i.e., the energy angle ϕ_p and the lateral angle α) that should take into account all the phenomena occurring during the complex block movement along the slope. The outputs of the plugin are a series of raster maps reporting the invasion zones and the quantification of both the susceptibility and the hazard. In this paper, we propose a method to relate these angles to some characteristics of the block (volume and shape) and the slope (inclination, forest density), to provide QPROTO users with a tool for estimating the input parameters. The results are validated on a series of case studies belonging to the North Western Italian Alps.

This research takes Cuiwei Village in Qianshan District of Zhuhai City as an example. Through field research, the village is investigated and analyzed, and the street scale, spatial structure, functional characteristic streets, internal commercial distribution forms, and functions of Cuiwei Historic District are studied. analysis. On this basis, based on the convex space method and the line-of-sight analysis method in the space syntax theory, with the help of Depthmap software, the complex street node, that is, the space of the two nodes A and B, is established through the establishment of a visual field model. It includes the analysis of the integration degree of the horizon, the concentration of the horizon, the connection value of the horizon and the spatial characteristics of the historical area, as well as the traditional buildings that are the most representative of the village, namely the Three Kings Temple and the Webster's Mansion. When R=N and radius R=3, observe the changes in the two parameters of the visual integration and visual depth of the two historical buildings. And with the help of Baidu Time Machine photos in different periods to observe and record the changes in the store and the characteristics of people's behavior, and draw conclusions.

Nanotechnology is concerned with the creation of particles and materials at nanoscale levels. Nanocomposite is a combination or matrix, in which different materials combine to develop new properties of the materials ensuring that one of the materials have size in range of 1-100 nm. Nanocomposites are classified according to the types of reinforcement materials and matrix materials used in their construction. Nanocomposites are divided into three types based on the matrix material: ceramic matrix nanocomposites (CMNC), polymer matrix nanocomposites (PMNC), and metal matrix nanocomposites (MMNC) (MMNC). The synthetic methods of nanocomposites are frequently classified in to two classes. These are top-down and bottom up approaches. The type of synthetic technique used is determined by the nanocomposites' intended properties. There are different wet methods for synthesis of metal nanoparticles and nanocomposites among these co-precipitations, sol gel and hydrothermal methods are cost effective as compared to other methods. The synthesized nanocomposites can be characterized using different techniques to get insight into the morphology, particle size, phase, composition, thermal stability, optical, magnetic, electrical and thermal properties. Also, nanocomposites are used in medical, pharmaceutical industry, food packaging, to electronics and energy industry. Thus this review focuses on the main ideas about synthesis, characterization and application of nanocomposites.

A novel phase-field method based numerical approach to modeling the compaction process of sedi- ments is presented. Water-logged rock or soil sediments are deposited on the water basins over time and the increasing volume of the sediment compacts under its own weight and external pressure. Coupled evolution of mass conservation, Darcy flow, and the viscoelastic constitutive response, in conjunction with the evolution of porosity and permeability, make this problem highly non-linear and involve moving boundaries. We adopt a phase-field approach to represent the moving sediment interface, and the underlying multiphasic model permits for studying compaction in dynamically evolving sediments. This approach does not necessitate a change of domain sizes as is the case of existing traditional models of sedimentation but rather treats sedimentation growth as a problem of interface motion. We first model a classical compaction problem in 1D to compare with existing results in the literature, and then extend the framework to 2D to model the compaction process taking place under the influence of gravity. The model is then extensively applied to understand the effect of the sediment initial state and the sediment material properties on the compaction process and its spatiotemporal evolution. Lastly, a strong validation of our phase-field treatment results against predictions from traditional methods of solving open boundary sediment compaction problems, and a good agreement between the conventional understanding and the numerical predictions of porosity dependence on the fluid pore pressure for various cases of geological interest, are used to demonstrate the applicability and scalability of this novel numerical framework to model more advanced sediment compaction problems and geometries.

This paper presents an approach to the vibration analysis of axially functionally graded non-prismatic Timoshenko beams (AFGNPTB) using the finite difference method (FDM). The characteristics (cross-sectional area, moment of inertia, elastic moduli, shear moduli, and mass density) of axially functionally graded beams vary along the longitudinal axis. The Timoshenko beam theory covers cases associated with small deflections based on shear deformation and rotary inertia considerations. The FDM is an approximate method for solving problems described with differential equations. It does not involve solving differential equations; equations are formulated with values at selected points of the structure. In addition, the boundary conditions and not the governing equations are applied at the beam’s ends. In this paper, differential equations were formulated with finite differences, and additional points were introduced at the beam’s ends and at positions of discontinuity (supports, hinges, springs, concentrated mass, spring-mass system, etc.). The introduction of additional points allowed us to apply the governing equations at the beam’s ends and to satisfy the boundary and continuity conditions. Moreover, grid points with variable spacing were also considered, the grid being uniform within beam segments. Vibration analysis of AFGNPTB was conducted with this model, and natural frequencies were determined. Finally, a direct time integration method (DTIM) was presented. The FDM-based DTIM enabled the analysis of forced vibration of AFGNPTB, considering the damping. The results obtained in this study showed good agreement with those of other studies, and the accuracy was always increased through a grid refinement.

MoS2 lithium-based grease is suitable for lubrication protection between bearings at high temperatures and loads due to its excellent tribological properties. However, there is little research on the influence of different addition methods of MoS2 additive on the tribology and corrosion properties of lithium grease. In this work, vegetable oil with low toxicity, high biodegradation rate, and low cost was selected as the base oil, lithium 12-hydroxystearate as the thickener, and MoS2 as the additive. The effects of different adding modes of MoS2 on the tribology and corrosion properties of lithium grease were studied. The experimental results showed that adding 0.01wt% MoS2 before thickening was more conducive to improving the tribological properties of lithium grease. The average friction coefficient was 0.034, and the average spot diameter was reduced by 0.16mm. After grinding and adding 0.01wt% MoS2, the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the steel sheet was as high as 96.97%. The main reason was that the longer stirring and grinding were conducive to the uniform distribution of MoS2 in the grease, and the protective film formed by MoS2 and GCr15-bearing steel improved the lubrication performance and corrosion inhibition performance of the friction system.

This study determines the equivalent stress intensity factor (SIF) model that best fits the experimental behavior of low-carbon steel under mixed mode (I and II). The study assessed Tanaka, Richard, and Pook's equivalent SIF models. The theoretical values used for comparison correspond to experimental results in a modified C(T) geometry by machining a hole ahead of the crack tip subjected to fatigue loads with a load ratio of R = 0.1. The comparison involved the SIF for six experimental points and the values computed through the numerical simulation. The Paris, Klesnil, and modified Forman-Newman crack growth models were used with each equivalent SIF to analyze the prediction in the estimated number of cycles. The Klesnil model showed the closest prediction since the error between the calculated and experimentally recorded number of cycles is the lowest. However, the material behavior reflects a reduced crack propagation rate attributed to plasticity in the crack tip. Results suggest that Asaro equivalent SIF conservatively estimates the element lifespan with increasing errors from 2.3% at the start of growth to 27 % at the end of the calculation.

The main idea of this paper is to investigate the exact solutions and dynamic properties in optical nanofibers, which is modeled by space-time fractional perturbed nonlinear schr\"odinger equation involving Kerr law nonlinearity with conformal fractional derivative. Firstly, by the complex fractional traveling wave transformation, the traveling wave system of the original equation is obtained, then a conserved quantity, namely the Hamiltonian is constructed, and the qualitative analysis of this system is conducted via this quantity by classifying the equilibrium points. Moreover, the prior estimate of the existence of the soliton and periodic solution is established via the bifurcation method. Furthermore, all exact traveling wave solutions are constructed to illustrate our results explicitly by the complete discrimination system for polynomial method.

The paper explores the potential of a low-cost advanced video-based technique for the assessment of structural damage induced to buildings by seismic loading. A low-cost high-speed video camera was utilized for motion magnification (MM) processing of footages of a two-story reinforced concrete frame building subjected to shaking table tests. The damage after seismic loading was estimated by analyzing the dynamic behavior (i.e. in terms of modal parameters) and the structural deformations of the building in the MM videos. The results by MM were compared for method validation to damage assessment obtained by the analyses of conventional accelerometers and high-precision optical markers tracked by a passive 3D motion capture system. Also, 3D laser scanning to obtain an accurate survey of the building geometry before and after the seismic tests was carried out. In particular, accelerometers were also processed and analyzed by using several stationary and non-stationary techniques with the aim to analyze the linear behavior of the undamaged structure and the nonlinear structural behavior during damaging shaking table tests. The proposed MM-based procedure provided accurate estimate of the main modal frequency and the damage location through the analysis of modal shapes, which were confirmed by advanced analyses of accelerometric data.

Economic valuations of ecosystem services often transfer previously estimated global unit values to the geographical setting of interest. While this approach produces quick results, its reliability depends on how representative the large-scale average unit values are for the given local context. Here, we estimate the values of three ecosystem services (ES) – water filtration, nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration – in the Grand River watershed (GRW) of southern Ontario, Canada. The watershed covers nearly 7000 km2, has a humid continental climate and a population of close to one million people. Land cover is dominated by agriculture. We compare ES valuations using locally derived (i.e., GRW-specific) unit values to valuations based on unit values from a regional database and those compiled in the global Ecosystem Services Valuation Database (ESVD). The regional database includes mean unit values from three case studies within southern Ontario and one boreal watershed in British Columbia. As expected, the regional database yields average monetary values for the three ES that are close to those obtained with the local unit values but with larger associated uncertainties. Using the ESVD, however, results in significantly higher monetary values for the ES. For water filtration, the ESVD value is more than five times higher than the regional and local estimates. We further illustrate the effect of the extent of aggregation of forested and agricultural land categories on the ES values. For example, by subdividing the forest category into three sub-categories (deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forest), the estimated value of the carbon sequestration ES of forested areas within the GRW increases by 15%. Overall, our results emphasize the importance of critically assessing the origin of unit values and the land cover resolution in ES valuation, especially when the latter is used as a policy-guiding tool.

This paper introduces an innovative approach to numerically model Structure-Soil-Structure Interaction (SSSI) by integrating the Boundary Element Method (BEM) and the Finite Element Method (FEM) in a coupled manner. To assess the accuracy of the proposed method, a comparative study is undertaken, comparing its outcomes with those generated by the conventional FEM technique. Alongside accuracy, the computational efficiency aspect is crucial for the analysis of large-scale SSSI problems. Hence, the computational performance of the coupled BEM-FEM method undergoes a thorough examination and is compared with that of the standalone FEM method. The results from these comparisons illustrate the superior capabilities of the proposed method in comparison to the FEM method. The novel approach provides more reliable results compared to traditional FEM methods, serving as a valuable tool for engineers and researchers involved in structural analysis and design.

Estimating the parameters of statistical distributions generally involves solving a system of nonlinear equations or a nonlinear equation, being a technical difficulty in their usual application in hydrology. This article presents improved approximations and, in some cases, new approximations for the estimation with the method of ordinary moments and the method of linear moments, which are useful for the direct calculation of the parameters, because the errors in the approximate estimation are similar to the use of iterative numerical methods. Thirteen statistical distributions of two and three parameters frequently used in hydrology are presented, for which parameter estimation was laborious. Thus, the approximate estimation of the parameters by the two methods is simple but also precise and easily applicable by hydrology researchers. The approximate forms characterized by very small errors are the result of the research conducted within the Faculty of Hydrotechnics to update the romanian normative standards in the hydrotechnical field.

DGJ (Daftardar-Gejii-Jafaris) method is used to obtain numerical solution of the third order fractional differential equation. Providing the DGJ method converges, the approximate solution is a good and effective numerical result which is close to the exact solution or the exact solution. For this,the examples of the explaning the method are presented. The proposed method is implemented for the approximation solution of the third order nonlinear fractional partial differential equations. The method was shown to be unsuitable and inconsistent for an example of a nonlinear fractional partial differential equation depend on initial-boundary value conditions. The fact that these numerical results are not consistent can be explained by the fact that the method is not convergent.

This study proposes a mobile positioning method which adopts recurrent neural network algorithms to analyze the received signal strength indications from heterogeneous networks (e.g., cellular networks and Wi-Fi networks) for estimating the locations of mobile statioThis study proposes a mobile positioning method which adopts recurrent neural network algorithms to analyze the received signal strength indications from heterogeneous networks (e.g., cellular networks and Wi-Fi networks) for estimating the locations of mobile stations. The recurrent neural networks with multiple consecutive timestamps can be applied to extract the features of time series data for the improvement of location estimation. In practical experimental environments, there are 4,525 records, 59 different base stations, and 582 different Wi-Fi access points detected in Fuzhou University in China. The lower location errors can be obtained by the recurrent neural networks with multiple consecutive timestamps (e.g., 2 timestamps and 3 timestamps); the experimental results can be observed that the average error of location estimation was 9.19 meters by the proposed mobile positioning method with 2 timestamps.

Brushless Direct Current Motors are significantly improved for using many electrical applications. The design investigation is increased year by year and most of the motor design researchers find out the superior efficiency of the BLDC motor. The traditional motor consumed more electrical power than BLDC motor. The design of BLDC motors that are compact, small, easy to control, save energy and light weight. Due to this fact, the design of BLDC motor should be analyzed to improve the motor characteristics performance. The research focuses on the design of BLDC motor performance using Taguchi Method and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for Finite Element Method (FEM). Firstly, the Taguchi Method is applied to identify the optimization point of design parameters and consider using the reference model of actual BLDC electric fan motor with a rated power of 26Watts design. Based on the Taguchi Method to create the RSM is used to two-step optimization design performance using in FEM analysis. The performances of motor design proposed approach to provide the effeteness for motor design investigator. In this investigation aims the better structural performances in output power, torque, efficiency and torque ripple. The final design of proposed model achieved an energy efficiency is 10% higher than the reference design of prototype modes, the output power result is 10W higher this reference design. We can reduce the loss of the proposed motor design. Furthermore, the maximum torque can also increase the 0.032Nm of that design. The design simulation results were produced and studied by the FEM analysis of JMAG software. From the evaluation results, the configurations of reference model design are compared with the proposed design by using the three methods of motor design optimization showed the best characteristics for performance of motor investigation design.

This research article aims to present implementation and evaluation of the HPPT design based on using multi-parallel pumps switching for yielding performance with reference to potential change of daily irradiance. After that, the curve fitting of the hydraulic performance scenarios is tested to compare the hydraulic energy growth behaviors with reference to exponential and power growth models.

Trade of agricultural products has gained importance with the development of global trade. Cherries has a crucial place in Turkish agricultural exports. Fresh cherries are in the scope of this study. The aim of this study is to examine Turkey’s position and competitiveness in cherry trade. Trade Intensity Analysis Method which represents the course of trade flow among countries is used in the study. The study indicates that European countries which are Turkey’s tradition trade partner has a biggest trade share with Turkey and that share did not much change in years. By the way, Asia market especially China, became a game changer in cherry trade and Turkey should prepare itself for this situation.

So called Higuchi’s method of fractal dimension estimation is widely used and the term Higuchi’s fractal dimension even occurs in many publications. This paper deals with this method from mathematical point of view. Terms distance and dimension and its basic properties are explained and Higuchi’s dimension according the original source is defined. Definition of Higuchi’s dimension was comparated with mathematical definition of the distance and dimension. It is showed, that the definition of the Higuchi’s dimension does not satisfy axioms of distance and dimension. So called Higuchi’s method and Higuchi’s dimension are mathematically incorrect. Therefore, all results achieved by this method are scientifically unreliable.

In 2007, the excavation of the M-30 ring road located in Madrid and the creation of a green corridor either side of the Manzanares river brought significant change to the metropolitan area. The corridor and linear park which it provided were designed to contribute to the regeneration of the fluvial ecosystem, establish links among residents on each side of the river and promote cultural and leisure activities. This paper provides a sustainability analysis of the excavation of the M-30 (involving the socio-economic and environmental impact) 14 years after its construction. In order to show such an impact, an analysis of the area both prior to the project and after completion, as well as a hypothetical solution that uses improved materials, has been performed. This entails use of the multi-criteria decision-making model named MIVES (initials in Spanish, modelo integrado de valor para una evaluación sostenible). The MIVES method is based on the application of value functions of sustainability indicators selected by socio-economic and environmental criteria, chosen by experts. Results from analysis showed that the excavation of the M-30 considerably improved the sustainability of the area (sustainable index 3.43 and 6.26 both before and after the excavation works). However, use of improved materials in contrast with the application of conventional materials slightly improved the sustainability of the work (Sustainability Index 6.26 and 6.74, respectively, of the conventional materials).

The morphology and the activity of a submarine caldera, Avyssos, at the northern part of Nisyros volcano in the South Aegean Sea (Greece), has been studied by means of remotely operated underwater vehicle dives. The recorded time series of temperature and conductivity over the submarine volcano have been analyzed in terms of the Generalized Moments Method. The findings of the mathematical analysis shed light on the volcanic activity, but also on the morphology (shape) of the submarine volcano. The conductivity time series indicates the volcano is at rest in agreement with other types of observations. On the other hand, temperature fluctuations, which in general describe a multifractal process, show that the submarine caldera operates as an open system that interacts with its surroundings. This type of analysis can be used as an indicator for the state of activity and the morphological structure (closed or open system) of a submarine volcano.

Due to the inclusion of both the principles and divination methods, the study of Yijing (Yijing) becomes more complex. The complex data types, diverse semantic relationships, and unclear influencing mechanisms in Yijing pose challenges to its scientific research. Knowledge graph, as an advanced way of organizing knowledge, can provide technical support in exploring the hidden connections and knowledge structure within text resources. This paper proposes a method of constructing a Yijing knowledge graph based on Neo4j. By analyzing the concepts, entities, and various related relationships in Yijing, the method discusses the basic architecture, data model, and implementation steps of constructing the Yijing knowledge graph. It also extracts, integrates, and structures the Yijing knowledge, allowing for inquiries, associations, and reasoning about the knowledge and its various elements. By adopting a top-down approach, the paper reconstructs the fundamental knowledge system of the Yijing, including yin-yang, the five elements, generation and restriction, 64 hexagrams, and six lines(yao). It establishes a knowledge graph pattern layer and a data layer that encompass concepts, attributes, and relationships. With the technical support of the Neo4j platform, the visualization and retrieval of Yijing knowledge are realized, providing new ideas and methods for studying the mechanisms of the Yijing. The proposed method of constructing a Yijing knowledge graph can be expanded to other types of ancient scripture knowledge graph research and can be applied to the field of digital humanities, promoting in-depth cross-disciplinary research and integration.

Good data analysis is required for the optimal design of water resources projects. However, data are not regularly collected due to material or technical reasons, which results in incomplete-data problems. Available data and data length are of great importance to solve those problems. Various studies have been conducted on missing data treatment. This study used data from the flow observation stations on Yeşilırmak River in Turkey. In the first part of the study, models were generated and compared in order to complete missing data using ANFIS, multiple regression and Normal Ratio Method. In the second part of the study, the minimum number of data required for ANFIS models was determined using the optimum ANFIS model. Of all methods compared in this study, ANFIS models yielded the most accurate results. A 10-year training set was also found to be sufficient as a data set.

An estimation of the electric sources in the heart were conducted using a novel method, based on Huygens’ Principle, aiming at a direct estimation of equivalent bioelectric sources over the heart surface in real time. The main scope of this work was to establish a new, fast approach for the solution of the inverse electrocardiography problem. The study was based on recorded electrocardiograms (ECGs). Based on the Huygens’ principle, measurements obtained from a patient’s thorax surface were interpolated over the surface of the employed volume conductor model and considered as a secondary Huygens’ sources. These sources, being non-zero only over the surface under study, were employed to determine the weighting factors of the eigen-functions expansion describing the generated voltage distribution over the whole volume conductor volume. With the availability of the potential distribution stemming from measurements, the electromagnetics reciprocity theorem is applied once again to yield the equivalent sources over the pericardium. The methodology is self validated, since the surface potentials calculated from these equivalent sources are in very good agreement with ECG measurements. The ultimate aim of this effort is to create a tool providing the equivalent epicardial voltage or current sources in real time, i.e. during the ECG measurements with multiple electrodes.

H-adaptivity is an effective tool to introduce local mesh refinement in FEM-based numerical simulation of crack propagation. The implementation of h-adaptivity could benefit the numerical simulation of fatigue or accidental load scenarios involving large structures such as ship hulls. In engineering applications, the element deletion method is frequently used to represent cracks. However, the element deletion method has some drawbacks such as strong mesh dependency and loss of mass or energy. In order to mitigate this problem, the element splitting method could be applied. In this study, a numerical method called ‘h-adaptive element splitting’ (h-AES) is introduced. The h-AES method is applied in FEM programs by combining h-adaptivity with the element splitting method. Two examples using the h-AES method to simulate cracks in large structures under linear-elastic fracture mechanics scenario are presented. The numerical results are verified against analytical solutions. Based on the examples, the h-AES method is proven to be able to introduce mesh refinement in large-scale numerical models that consist of structured coarse meshes. By employing the mesh refinement introduced in this paper, very small cracks are well represented in large structures.

This paper presents an approach to the vibration analysis of axially functionally graded (AFG) non-prismatic Euler-Bernoulli beams using the finite difference method (FDM). The characteristics (cross-sectional area, moment of inertia, elastic moduli, and mass density) of AFG beams vary along the longitudinal axis. The FDM is an approximate method for solving problems described with differential equations. It does not involve solving differential equations; equations are formulated with values at selected points of the structure. In addition, the boundary conditions and not the governing equations are applied at the beam’s ends. In this paper, differential equations were formulated with finite differences, and additional points were introduced at the beam’s ends and at positions of discontinuity (supports, hinges, springs, concentrated mass, spring-mass system, etc.). The introduction of additional points allowed us to apply the governing equations at the beam’s ends and to satisfy the boundary and continuity conditions. Moreover, grid points with variable spacing were also considered, the grid being uniform within beam segments. Vibration analysis of AFG non-prismatic Euler-Bernoulli beams was conducted with this model, and natural frequencies were determined. Finally, a direct time integration method (DTIM) was presented. The FDM-based DTIM enabled the analysis of forced vibration of AFG non-prismatic Euler-Bernoulli beams, considering the damping. The results obtained in this paper showed good agreement with those of other studies, and the accuracy was always increased through a grid refinement.

The use of biodiesel fuels in compression ignition engines leads to decrease CO, PM, HC and smoke opacity. However, NOx emissions increase importantly. Various methods to reduce NOx are used namely the EGR, the water injection method and the steam injection method. In this study, the steam injection method has been used instead of the other methods because of its benefits. This study examines the effects of steam injection on combustion products of diesel and biodiesel fuels by considering chemical equilibrium in order to determine the equilibrium combustion products involving 10 combustion products. A developed simulation code determing the equilibrium mole fractions and thermodynamic properties of combustion products is used for diesel and biodiesel fuels. It can be used for any fuel consisting of carbon, hydrogen or any oxygenated fuel. The results show that the mole fraction of CO2 and CO decrease with the steam injection ratios. NO mole fractions decrease with steam injection for lean mixtures but they increase slightly in the case of rich mixtures. The specific heat of combustion products increase with the steam injection ratios. Thus, the engine performance can be improved using the method. The model has been validated by comparing model results with the ones of NASA CEA software and GASEQ software using the methane as fuel. The relative errors of equilibrium mole fractions and thermodynamic properties of combustion products are less than 0.98 %.

C-C motif chemokine receptor 1 (CCR1/CD191) is a member of G-protein-coupled receptors, and is expressed on myeloid cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages. Because the CCR1 signaling promotes tumor expansion in the tumor microenvironment (TME), the modification of TME is an effective strategy for cancer therapy. Although CCR1 is an attractive target for solid tumors and hematological malignancies, anti-CCR1 therapeutic agents have not been approved. Here, we established a novel anti-mouse CCR1 (mCCR1) monoclonal antibody (mAb), C₁Mab-6 (rat IgG_2b, kappa), using the Cell-Based Immunization and Screening (CIBS) method. Flow cytometry and Western blot analyses showed that C₁Mab-6 recognizes mCCR1 specifically. The dissociation constant of C₁Mab-6 for mCCR1-overexpressed Chinese hamster ovary-K1 was determined as 3.9×10^-9 M, indicating that C₁Mab-6 possesses a high affinity to mCCR1. These results suggest that C₁Mab-6 could be a useful tool for targeting CCR1 in preclinical mouse models.

The crosslinking behavior of polyethylene (PE) determines its exceptional performance and application. In this study, we investigated the crosslinking behaviors of different PE resins through model simulation and rheological methods. Specifically, the mathematical equation of "S" model was established for PE resin. According to this equation, the optimal maximum gel content for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) was found to be around 85%. Moreover, the maximum crosslinking degrees for different PE resins depended largely on their density and molecular weight. The melt viscosities before crosslinking in PE resins were highly influenced by their melt index. The higher melt indexes resulted in the lower storage moduli, improving melt processability during processing. In addition, the crosslinking rates of PE resins were strongly influenced by peroxide concentration, independent of PE resin structures. For high molecular weight and low-density PE resins, they exhibited decreased ti values, increased A0 values, and decreased k6 values. However, there were no noticeable variations in the values of k2 and phi among different PE resins. And all simulated modeling outcomes showed the remarkable consistency with the experimental rheological data. These findings are of utmost significance in the industrial manufacture of PE resin.

In this study, we have considered for numerical solution of a Poisson equation in a domain. we have presented a first and second order finite difference method for solving the system of the intial boundary value. We have presented the numerical solution of the Poisson equations in a two-dimensional finite region. Numerical Solution and exact solution for the presented method has been compared and the figures presented. The present error analysis tables demonstrate the efficiency of the method.

The novelty of this study consists in: i) synthesis and characterization of electrode materials recycled from a spent car battery and doped with MnO2 and CuO by the analysis of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Infrared (IR) and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) data and ii) the investigation of electrochemical properties of prepared materials in view of new applications as electrode materials for battery. Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) data indicate that the intensity of the resonance line corresponding to the Cu+2 ion was modified with the increase of the dopant content. The analysis of X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) data indicates that by increasing the dopant content there is a process of ordering the oxygen atoms around the lead similar to the PbO2 theoretical model. The electrochemical performances of the recycled and manganese-copper-doped materials are optimized for applications as new anodic electrode for the car battery.

This article analyzes 6 probability distributions from the Generalized Pareto family, with 3, 4 and 5 parameters, with main purpose to identify other distributions from this family with applicability in flood frequency analysis compared to the distribution already used in the literature from this family such as Generalized Pareto Type II and Wakeby. This analysis is part of a larger and more complex research carried out in the Faculty of Hydrotechnics regarding the elaboration of a norm for flood frequency analysis using the linear moments method. In Romania, the standard method of parameter estimation is the method of ordinary moments, thus the transition from this method to the method of linear moments is desired. All the necessary elements for the distributions use are presented like, the probability density functions, the complementary cumulative distribution functions, the quantile functions, the exact and approximate relations for estimating parameters, for both methods of parameters estimation. All these elements are necessary for a proper transition between the two methods, especially since the use of the method of ordinary moments is done by choosing the skewness of the observed data depending on the origin of the maximum flows. A flood frequency analysis case study, using annual maximum and annual exceedance series, was carried out for the Prigor river, to numerically present the analyzed distributions. The performance of this distributions is evaluated using relative mean error, relative absolute error and linear moments diagram.

Recent advance in electric propulsion systems have demonstrated that these engines can be used for for long-duration interplanetary voyages. Constant specific impulse engine described as a thrust-limited engine is an example of this type of engine, processing the ability to operate at a constant level of impulse. The determination of minimum-fuel, planar heliocentric Earth-to-Mars low-thrust trajectories of spacecraft using a constant specific impulse is discussed considering the first-order necessary conditions derived from Lawden’s primer vector theory. The minimum-fuel low-thrust Earth-to-Mars optimization problem is then solved in two-dimensional, heliocentric frame using both indirect and direct methods. In the indirect method, two-point-boundary-value problems are derived to solve boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations. In the direct method, a general-purpose optimal control software called GPOPS-II is adopted to solve these optimal control problems. Numerical examples using two different optimization methods are presented to demonstrate the characteristics of minimum-fuel planar low-thrust trajectories with on-off-on thrust sequences at three chosen flight times and available maximum powers. The results are useful for broad trajectory search in the preliminary phase of mission designs.

Rubbish in a forest environment is a great threat to this ecosystem, but this threat may also apply to the lost benefits for visitors to the forest. Previous studies proved that forest areas have a positive effect on obtaining psychological relaxation in the people visiting them. However, it was not known whether this restorative experience could be disturbed in any way by the presence of an open dump in the forest. To check how the presence of a landfill affects the visitors, an experiment was planned in which the respondents observed a forest area with a landfill and a forest landscape without a landfill for 15 minutes (control). The respondents then assessed the landscape using the semantic differential method and the Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS). An analysis of these observations showed that the presence of a landfill in the forest significantly changed the appreciation of the landscape by the respondents, the values of positive experiences decreased, and the negative experiences increased. Restorativeness was also reduced. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the presence of garbage in the forest may interrupt the restorative experience of its visitors.

The market of ready-to-eat salads is experiencing a noticeable growth in Europe. Since they are intended to be consumed without additional treatments, these ready-to-eat products are associated with a high microbiological risk. The aim of this work was to evaluate the microbiological quality and safety of ready-to-eat salads sold in widespread supermarket chains in Lazio, Italy, at the packaging date, during shelf-life and during home-refrigeration. The study also aimed to determine the differences between low, medium, and high cost products. Salmonella spp., L. monocytogenes were chosen as safety indicators as specified by European regulations while total aerobic mesophilic bacteria and Escherichia coli were chosen as quality indicators as suggested by national guidelines. Analyses were performed following the ISO standards and in parallel, for the evaluation of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, with an alternative colorimetric system, the Micro Biological Survey method, in order to propose a simple, affordable and accurate alternative for testing the microbiological quality of products, especially suitable for small and medium enterprises and on-site analyses. The study revealed high, unsatisfactory, total bacterial loads in all analyzed samples at the packaging date and expiring date and a very high prevalence of Salmonella spp. (67%) regardless of the selected varieties and cost-categories; L. monocytogenes was instead not recovered aligning with the results obtained in other studies.

The market of ready-to-eat salads is experiencing a noticeable growth in Europe. The commercial success of these products is linked to the growing demand for fresh, healthy and nutritionally valuable products that can be consumed without preparation time and are perceived as safe and very high-quality products. Since they are intended to be consumed without additional treatments, these ready-to-eat products are associated with a high microbiological risk. The aim of this work was to evaluate the microbiological quality and safety of ready-to-eat salads sold in widespread supermarket chains in Lazio, Italy, at the packaging date, during shelf-life and during home-refrigeration. The study also aimed to determine the differences between low, medium and high cost products. Salmonella spp., L. monocytogenes were chosen as safety indicators as specified by European regulations while total aerobic mesophilic bacteria and Escherichia coli were chosen as quality indicators as suggested by national guidelines. Analyses were performed following the ISO standards and in parallel, for the evaluation of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, with an alternative colorimetric system, the MBS method, in order to propose a simple, affordable and accurate alternative for testing the microbiological quality of products, especially suitable for small and medium enterprises and on-site analyses.

This code provides computational facilities to simulate current versus time during the charging of Li-ion cells at desire constant voltage by considering multiscale physical phenomena. This code only considers a powder of active materials (at microscale or nanoscale) and a small part of electrolyte around it as a half cell. Then it is extended to a complete cell by applying correct boundary conditions. This code is very useful by modifying code parameters to understand the effect of the complex shape of active materials powder (surface area and powder size), kind of electrolyte, and the applied voltages on the charging response of Li-ion cell. As a summary, a microscale approach to the design of Li-ion cells has been provided via this code.

A specific HPLC method has been developed and validated for the determination of vanillyl butyl ether in cosmetic products. The extraction procedure with an isopropanol water 1:1 mixture is described. The method uses a RP-C-18 column with isocratic elution and a UV detector. The mobile phase consists of a mixture of acetonitrile and buffer (Na2HPO4 20mM in water) (30:70 v/v) with a variable flow rate. The method was validated with respect to accuracy, precision (repeatability and reproducibility), specificity and linearity. The procedure described here is simple, selective and reliable for routine quality control analysis and stability tests of commercially available cosmetic products.

Steel is one of the essential materials in the world's civilization. It is essential to produce many products such as pipelines, mechanical elements in machines, vehicles, profiles, and beam sections for buildings in many industries. Until the '50s of the 20th century, steel products required a complex process known as ingot casting; for years, steelmakers focused on developing and simplifying this process. The result was the con-tinuous casting process (CCP); it is the most productive method to produce steel. The CCP allows producing significant volumes of steel sections without interruption and is more productive than the formal ingot casting process. The CCP begins by transferring the liquid steel from the steel-ladle to a tundish. This tundish or vessel distributes the liquid steel, by flowing through its volume, to one or more strands having wa-ter-cooled copper molds. The mold is the primary cooling system, PCS, solidifying a steel shell to withstand a liquid core and its friction forces with the mold wall. Further down the mold, the rolls drive the steel section in the SCS. Here the steel section is cooled, solidifying the remaining liquid core, by sprays placed in every cooling segment all around the billet and along the curved section of the machine. Finally, the steel strand goes towards a horizontal-straight free-spray zone, losing heat by radiation mechanism, where the billet cools down further to total solidification. A moving torch cutting-scissor splits the billet to the desired length at the end of this heat-radiant zone.

The Planning and implementation of construction projects are difficult processes and are burdened with many risk elements. The budget spread over time, which is developed on the basis of the schedule, presents the expected distribution of costs throughout the duration of the works, which during the implementation of the project is subject to constant changes resulting from time, cost and organizational factors. Managing construction contracts requires managers to be able to analyze on an ongoing basis the variances of production costs - from the values calculated in the offer cost estimate and assumed in the Budgeted Cost of Work Scheduled. The article attempts to analyze the emerging time and cost deviations using proprietary T/S and T/C monitoring, based on simple indicators of the EVM method. An example of construction of a multi-family housing development was used to study the variances of planned and incurred costs.

Aim: Despite the endemic nature of contagious ecthyma in Nigeria, there is limited report on the molecular characterization of the isolates responsible for disease outbreaks. The aim of this study was to molecularly characterize ORFV isolated from clinical infections in goats in Sokoto metropolis. Materials and Methods: Seronegative embryonated chicken eggs were used to isolate ORFV via the chorio allantoic membrane (CAM) route according to the established protocol. Viral DNA was extracted from infected CAM and the full coding region of B2L gene was amplified by PCR and subsequently sequenced by Sanger’s method. The nucleotide sequence results were blasted for identification and phylogenetically analyzed using MEGA and Bioedit softwares. Results and Discussion: The results showed that B2L gene sequences of the ORFV UDUS/01/19/More strain showed slight variability (96- 98.7%) with the reference sequences. Our isolate clustered within the same clade with Korean strain signifying a close genetic relationship. Unique amino acid substitutions were noted in our isolate when compared with other references. This is arguably the first genetic characterisation of B2L gene of ORFV circulating in Nigeria. Conclusion: Our study has provided in sight into the genetic diversity of ORFV in the study area. This is crucial for the design of effective vaccines against the disease which are currently lacking in the country.