Background: A new rapid Immunochromatographic test (ICT) kit (MPT64 TB Ag Kit) for detection of MPT64 Antigen in M. tuberculosis (MTB) isolates used for rapid identification of MTB isolates developed by SD (Standard D...Background: A new rapid Immunochromatographic test (ICT) kit (MPT64 TB Ag Kit) for detection of MPT64 Antigen in M. tuberculosis (MTB) isolates used for rapid identification of MTB isolates developed by SD (Standard Diagnostics) Bio line, South Korea was evaluated. The ICT is a rapid, reliable and cheaper method that can be used instead of conventional biochemical tests for confirming MTB in culture isolates in resource limited laboratories. The study also evaluated the ability of ICT to detect MPT64-Antigen before the micro MGIT could signal positive. Material/Methods: A total of 450 sputum samples of individual patients were used for the study. 152 isolates of Mycobacteria were recovered from solid and liquid media. These strains were tested for the detection of MPT64-antigen. H37Rv strain was served as the positive reference control and also used for early detection of Antigen experiment. Findings: The development of bands on both test and sample region when H37Rv strain was tested were seen (MPT64 antigen positive). When 138 MTB isolates were tested, it showed a similar banding pattern indicating 100% sensitivity. MPT64 band formation was not detected in any of the 14 isolates indicating 100% specificity. Both PPV & NPV were 100%. All the isolates negative for MPT64 Ag were confirmed as MOTT by conventional bio-chemical PNBA. The H37Rv strain showed a faint band from the 2nd day onwards from inoculation till 3rd day in the earlier Antigen detection experiment. Conclusion: Rapid identification of MTB culture isolate is a pressing need for diagnosis and proceeding to perform drug susceptibility testing. MPT64 TB Ag detection ICT kit is a rapid, reliable method, good substitute for molecular identification methods, and conventional biochemical test which is time-consuming and technically demanding. The early detection of Antigen can be used as an effective tool in diagnosis.展开更多
This investigation deals with the intelligent system for parallel fault-tolerant diagnostic tests construction. A modified parallel algorithm for fault-tolerant diagnostic tests construction is proposed. The algorithm...This investigation deals with the intelligent system for parallel fault-tolerant diagnostic tests construction. A modified parallel algorithm for fault-tolerant diagnostic tests construction is proposed. The algorithm is allowed to optimize processing time on tests construction. A matrix model of data and knowledge representation, as well as various kinds of regularities in data and knowledge are presented. Applied intelligent system for diagnostic of mental health of population which is developed with the use of intelligent system for parallel fault-tolerant DTs construction is suggested.展开更多
Presented in this manuscript are conventional electrical engineering tools to model the earth as a rotating electrical machine. Calculations using known parameters of the earth and measured field data has resulted in ...Presented in this manuscript are conventional electrical engineering tools to model the earth as a rotating electrical machine. Calculations using known parameters of the earth and measured field data has resulted in new understanding of the earth’s electrical system and gyroscopic rotation. The material makeup of the inner earth is better understood based on derived permeability and permittivity constants. The planet has been modeled as simple coils and then as a parallel impedance circuit which has led to fundamental insight into planetary speed control and RLC combination for Schumann Resonance of 7.83 Hz. Torque and Voltage Constants and the inverse Speed Constant are calculated using three methods and all compare favorably with Newton’s Gravitational Constant. A helical resonator is referenced and Schumann’s Resonant ideal frequency is calculated and compared with others idealism. A new theory of gravity based on particle velocity selector at the poles is postulated. Two equations are presented as the needed links between Faraday’s electromagnetism and Newtonian physics. Acceleration and Deceleration of earth is explained as a centripetal governor. A new equation for planetary attraction and the attraction of atomic matter is theorized. Rotation of the earth’s electrical coil is explained in terms of the Richardson effect. Electric power transfer from the sun to the planets is proposed via Flux Transfer Events. The impact of this evolving science of electromagnetic modeling of planets will be magnified as the theory is proven, and found to be useful for future generations of engineers and scientists who seek to discover our world and other planets.展开更多
Rolling dynamic compaction (RDC),which employs non-circular module towed behind a tractor,is an innovative soil compaction method that has proven to be successful in many ground improvement applications.RDC involves r...Rolling dynamic compaction (RDC),which employs non-circular module towed behind a tractor,is an innovative soil compaction method that has proven to be successful in many ground improvement applications.RDC involves repeatedly delivering high-energy impact blows onto the ground surface,which improves soil density and thus soil strength and stiffness.However,there exists a lack of methods to predict the effectiveness of RDC in different ground conditions,which has become a major obstacle to its adoption.For this,in this context,a prediction model is developed based on linear genetic programming (LGP),which is one of the common approaches in application of artificial intelligence for nonlinear forecasting.The model is based on in situ density-related data in terms of dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) results obtained from several projects that have employed the 4-sided,8-t impact roller (BH-1300).It is shown that the model is accurate and reliable over a range of soil types.Furthermore,a series of parametric studies confirms its robustness in generalizing data.In addition,the results of the comparative study indicate that the optimal LGP model has a better predictive performance than the existing artificial neural network (ANN) model developed earlier by the authors.展开更多
The imminent danger of the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated research in pharmaceuticals that either target the viral Spike proteins fusion with ACE2 receptors,or the infectious RNA replication that often overwhelms i...The imminent danger of the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated research in pharmaceuticals that either target the viral Spike proteins fusion with ACE2 receptors,or the infectious RNA replication that often overwhelms immune defences.The scope of this review was to elucidate the main human vulnerabilities to Covid-19,including the accumulation of ACE2 receptors in testes,adipose tissue,thyroid,heart and kidneys that escalate viral affinity in males,the aged,and certain medical conditions,including diabetes,CVD,and pulmonary diseases.Pre-existing inflammation inherent in obesity may exacerbate the“cytokine storm,”a rampaging immune reaction during the course of Covid-19 that is deleterious to the host.We examined the molecular dynamics illustrating the action of new therapeutics necessary for Covid-19 patients;the estradiol advantage hypothesis;alternative therapies including hormone replacement procedures and mesenchymal stem cells;plus preventive and protective interventions.The current perspective also explored the primary components of dysregulated health predisposing individuals to Covid-19,including hormonal imbalance,increased lipids and lipoproteins,thyroid dysfunction,degraded fitness,and age-related testosterone decline accompanied by cortisol increase that provokes stress eating behaviours and weight accumulation.Obesity increases the probability of Covid-19 infection due to its abundance of ACE2 receptors;while physical activity may decrease Covid-19 vulnerability,by reducing fat and increasing muscle mass that manifests a relatively inhibited ACE2 expression.Several weight management solutions feature lasers and radiofrequency which diminish subcutaneous adiposity but do not enhance fitness.A data metanalysis of seven recently published clinical studies on 95 obese individuals,73 males and 22 females with an average BMI of 30.9,demonstrated visceral fat reduction combined with increased skeletal muscle mass.It also revealed a statistically significant decrease in BMI,lipids,lipoproteins,inflammation and toxicity as measured by CRP,Creatinine and Bilirubin respectively,juxtaposed by optimally healthier levels of Cortisol,Testosterone,Free T3,IGF-1,Insulin,and the appetite controlling hormones Leptin and Ghrelin.展开更多
The beneficial acclimation hypothesis (BAH) predicts that animals acclimated to a particular temperature have enhanced performance or fitness at that temperature in comparison with animals acclimated to other temperat...The beneficial acclimation hypothesis (BAH) predicts that animals acclimated to a particular temperature have enhanced performance or fitness at that temperature in comparison with animals acclimated to other temperatures. The BAH has been tested by a variety of empirical examinations, and was rejected by some of them. In order to provide new evidences for the BAH, the effects of acute and acclimation temperature (AT) on locomotor performance of Macrobiotus hufelandi (Tardigrada: Macrobiotidae) were investigated. The tardigrades were collected from Nanwutai, Qinling Mountains which traverse from west to east in central China. The subjects were acclimated to either 2℃ or 22℃ for 2 weeks. The animal was transferred onto a frosted slide and allowed to walk freely at the performance temperature (PT) 2℃ or 22℃. Only one individual was tested per test bout, which lasted from three to five minutes. To avoid occurrence of thermal acclimation effect, the standard adaptation time was limited to 1.5 min. Each subject was tested for once at the same PT, and was tested only at one PT. A total of 25 individuals were tested and measured at the same PT. The locomotor performance of the animals was recorded with a digital video camera mounted on a microscope at 4×10 amplification and replayed on a PC. Every subject was identified. Walking speed (WS) and percentage of time moving (PTM) at both PTs (2℃ or 22℃) were selected as the rate parameters of locomotor performance. The two-way repeated measures ANOVA with a significance level of α= 0.05 and Duncan multiple range test were used to analyze the data. WS of the animals acclimated to and tested at the same temperatures was significantly faster than that for animals acclimated to and tested at the different temperatures, similarly, PTM of the animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 22℃ was significantly greater than PTM of animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 2℃, which indicated that the animals acclimated to a particular temperature have enhanced locomotor performance in that temperature relative to the animals acclimated to that temperature in other thermal environment. WS of the animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 22℃ was significantly faster than WS of animals acclimated to 2℃ and tested at 22℃, PTM of the animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 22℃ was significantly greater than PTM of animals acclimated to 2℃ and tested at 22℃. These results supported the BAH. It could be concluded that the PT and thermal acclimation as well as the interaction between the PT and AT significantly influence the locomotor performance of M.hufelandi, and that, despite the existence of a few results of this study that don’t support the BAH, some results of this study support for this hypothesis, and that the animals acclimated to a particular temperature have enhanced locomotor performance in that temperature relative to the animals acclimated to that temperature in other thermal environment, implying that any performance temperature that deviates from the acclimation temperature could cause the reduction of the walking speed which is closely related to the fitness of the M.hufelandi.展开更多
The present pagination reports both Brownian diffusion and thermophoresis aspects subject to magneto hydrodynamic Williamson fluid model.Assuming the flow is unsteady and blood is treated as Williamson fluid over a we...The present pagination reports both Brownian diffusion and thermophoresis aspects subject to magneto hydrodynamic Williamson fluid model.Assuming the flow is unsteady and blood is treated as Williamson fluid over a wedge with radiation.The governing equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations by using similarity variables.The analytical solutions of the transformed governing equations are obtained by using the RK 4th order method along with shooting technique solver.The effects of various physical parameters such as Hartmann number,local Weissenberg number,radiation parameter,unsteadiness parameter,Prandtl number,Lewis number,Brownian diffusion,thermophoresis,wedge angle parameter,moving wedge parameter,on velocity,temperature,concentration,skin friction,heat transfer rate and mass transfer rate have been discussed in detail.The velocity and temperature profile deprives for larger We and an opposite trend is observed for concentration.The radiation parameter is propositional to temperature and a counter behaviour is observed for Pr.展开更多
Two new regularization algorithms for solving the first-kind Volterra integral equation, which describes the pressure-rate deconvolution problem in well test data interpretation, are developed in this paper. The main ...Two new regularization algorithms for solving the first-kind Volterra integral equation, which describes the pressure-rate deconvolution problem in well test data interpretation, are developed in this paper. The main features of the problem are the strong nonuniform scale of the solution and large errors (up to 15%) in the input data. In both algorithms, the solution is represented as decomposition on special basic functions, which satisfy given a priori information on solution, and this idea allow us significantly to improve the quality of approximate solution and simplify solving the minimization problem. The theoretical details of the algorithms, as well as the results of numerical experiments for proving robustness of the algorithms, are presented.展开更多
Long-span bridges are special structures that require advanced analysis techniques to examine their performance. This paper presents a procedure developed to model the Confederation Bridge using 3-D beam elements. The...Long-span bridges are special structures that require advanced analysis techniques to examine their performance. This paper presents a procedure developed to model the Confederation Bridge using 3-D beam elements. The model was validated using the data collected before the opening of the bridge to the public. The bridge was instrumented to conduct fullscale static and dynamic tests. The static tests were to measure the deflection of the bridge pier while the dynamic tests to measure the free vibrations of the pier due to a sudden release of the static load. Confederation Bridge is one of the longest reinforced concrete bridges in the world. It connects the province of Prince Edward Island and the province of New Brunswick in Canada. Due to its strategic location and vital role as a transportation link between these two provinces, it was designed using higher safety factors than those for typical highway bridges. After validating the present numerical model, a procedure was developed to evaluate the performance of similar bridges subjected to traffic and seismic loads. It is of interest to note that the foundation stiffness and the modulus of elasticity of the concrete have significant effects on the structural responses of the Confederation Bridge.展开更多
Members of the British Textile Machinery Association(BTMA)can look back on 2025 as a year marked by notable technological advances and continued progress in global trade,despite an uncertain and volatile market.“Our ...Members of the British Textile Machinery Association(BTMA)can look back on 2025 as a year marked by notable technological advances and continued progress in global trade,despite an uncertain and volatile market.“Our members have been very active over the past 12 months and this has resulted in new technologies for the production of technical fibres and fabrics,the introduction of AI and machine learning into process control systems and significant advances in materials testing,”says BTMA CEO Jason Kent.“There’s real excitement about what can be achieved in 2026 as we look ahead to upcoming exhibitions such as JEC Composites in Paris in March and Techtextil in Frankfurt in April.”展开更多
The size and shape of the effective test area are crucial to consider when short-crested waves are created by segmented wavemakers. The range of the effective test area of short-crested waves simulated by two-sided se...The size and shape of the effective test area are crucial to consider when short-crested waves are created by segmented wavemakers. The range of the effective test area of short-crested waves simulated by two-sided segmented wavemakers is analyzed in this paper. The experimental investigation on the wave field distribution of short-crested waves generated by two-sided segmented wavemakers is conducted by using an array of wave gauges. Wave spectra and directional spreading function are analyzed and the results show that when the main direction is at a certain angle with the normal line of wave generators, the wave field of 3D short-crested waves generated by two-sided segmented wavemakers has good spatial uniformity within the model test area. The effective test area can provide good wave environments for seakeeping model tests of various ocean engineering structures in the deep ocean engineering basin.展开更多
A maximum test in lieu of forcing a choice between the two dependent samples t-test and Wilcoxon signed-ranks test is proposed. The maximum test, which requires a new table of critical values, maintains nominal α whi...A maximum test in lieu of forcing a choice between the two dependent samples t-test and Wilcoxon signed-ranks test is proposed. The maximum test, which requires a new table of critical values, maintains nominal α while guaranteeing the maximum power of the two constituent tests. Critical values, obtained via Monte Carlo methods, are uniformly smaller than the Bonferroni-Dunn adjustment, giving it power superiority when testing for treatment alternatives of shift in location parameter when data are sampled from non-normal distributions.展开更多
Potassium-ion batteries(PIBs)are considered promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries owing to cost-effective potassium resources and a suitable redox potential of-2.93 V(vs.-3.04 V for Li+/Li).However,the explo...Potassium-ion batteries(PIBs)are considered promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries owing to cost-effective potassium resources and a suitable redox potential of-2.93 V(vs.-3.04 V for Li+/Li).However,the exploration of appro-priate electrode materials with the correct size for reversibly accommodating large K+ions presents a significant challenge.In addition,the reaction mecha-nisms and origins of enhanced performance remain elusive.Here,tetragonal FeSe nanoflakes of different sizes are designed to serve as an anode for PIBs,and their live and atomic-scale potassiation/depotassiation mechanisms are revealed for the first time through in situ high-resolution transmission electron micros-copy.We found that FeSe undergoes two distinct structural evolutions,sequen-tially characterized by intercalation and conversion reactions,and the initial intercalation behavior is size-dependent.Apparent expansion induced by the intercalation of K+ions is observed in small-sized FeSe nanoflakes,whereas unexpected cracks are formed along the direction of ionic diffusion in large-sized nanoflakes.The significant stress generation and crack extension originating from the combined effect of mechanical and electrochemical interactions are elucidated by geometric phase analysis and finite-element analysis.Despite the different intercalation behaviors,the formed products of Fe and K_(2)Se after full potassiation can be converted back into the original FeSe phase upon depotassiation.In particular,small-sized nanoflakes exhibit better cycling perfor-mance with well-maintained structural integrity.This article presents the first successful demonstration of atomic-scale visualization that can reveal size-dependent potassiation dynamics.Moreover,it provides valuable guidelines for optimizing the dimensions of electrode materials for advanced PIBs.展开更多
For India to achieve elimination by 2030,the challenges posed by Plasmodium(P.)vivax cannot be overlooked owing to its burden and unique biology.In 2023,in India,about 224000 malaria cases were reported,and a signific...For India to achieve elimination by 2030,the challenges posed by Plasmodium(P.)vivax cannot be overlooked owing to its burden and unique biology.In 2023,in India,about 224000 malaria cases were reported,and a significant proportion(40%)were P.vivax cases.In P.vivax infection,the persistence of dormant liver stage of parasite,i.e.,hypnozoites,leading to relapses weeks or months later poses challenge in its elimination.展开更多
The use of alternative fuels to generate mechanical and thermal energy in engines is a promising and sought-after technological area with its own unique advantages and characteristics.Consequently,enhancing the techni...The use of alternative fuels to generate mechanical and thermal energy in engines is a promising and sought-after technological area with its own unique advantages and characteristics.Consequently,enhancing the technical,economic,and environmental efficiency of gas engines fueled by propane-butane mixture and syngas through optimized operating cycle parameters(including valve timing,ignition timing angle,fuel mixture composition,and compression ratio)is a pressing imperative for scientific and energy sectors.The aim of the study was to investigate and compare the performance of an engine with different compression ratios running on a propane-butane mixture and laboratory syngas.The research’s primary originality lies in its joint study of syngas production technology and the evaluation of the efficiency of a mini power plant fueled by the resulting gas and conventional gas.This article presents a description of the experimental setup,data on measuring instruments,technical characteristics of the mini-power plant,the process for obtaining laboratory syngas,the properties of the gaseous fuels used,and experimental methods.Data on air and fuel consumption,as well as engine efficiency at different compression ratios when running on a propane-butane mixture and syngas,were obtained and analyzed.Converting an engine from a propane-butane mixture to syngas results in a reduction in power of almost 30% and efficiency by 13%–33%.Increasing the compression ratio by 0.9 units causes a rise in maximum efficiency from 0.177 to 0.235 for an engine running on a propane-butane mixture and an increase in maximum efficiency from 0.136 to 0.161 for a syngas engine.It has been confirmed that the compression ratio significantly impacts the technical and economic performance of an engine running on gaseous fuel.The obtained results can be used to modernize existing engines for operation on alternative fuels(syngas)and to design new mini-power plants with promising technical,economic,and environmental characteristics.展开更多
Highlights By conjugating the same anti-N monoclonal antibody(mAb4-mAb1)with colloidal gold or fluorescent microspheres,this study developed two rapid point-of-care antigen immunochromatographic strips for the detecti...Highlights By conjugating the same anti-N monoclonal antibody(mAb4-mAb1)with colloidal gold or fluorescent microspheres,this study developed two rapid point-of-care antigen immunochromatographic strips for the detection of porcine deltacoronavirus.The fluorescent microsphere-based lateral flow test strip demonstrated a sensitivity of 10^(1.7)TCID_(50)/0.1 mL,which is fourfold higher than that of the colloidal gold-based assay.Porcine deltacoronavirus(PDCoV)is a recently identified enteric coronavirus that causes an acute infectious disease in piglets,leading to diarrhea,vomiting,dehydration,and mortality(Hu et al.2015).展开更多
As the proportion of renewable energy increases, the interaction between renewable energy devices and the grid continues to enhance. Therefore, the renewable energy dynamic test in a power system has become more and m...As the proportion of renewable energy increases, the interaction between renewable energy devices and the grid continues to enhance. Therefore, the renewable energy dynamic test in a power system has become more and more important. Traditional dynamic simulation systems and digital-analog hybrid simulation systems are difficult to compromise on the economy, flexibility and accuracy. A multi-time scale test system of doubly fed induction generator based on FPGA+ CPU heterogeneous calculation is proposed in this paper. The proposed test system is based on the ADPSS simulation platform. The power circuit part of the test system is setup up using the EMT(electromagnetic transient simulation) simulation, and the control part uses the actual physical devices. In order to realize the close-loop testing for the physical devices, the power circuit must be simulated in real-time. This paper proposes a multi-time scale simulation algorithm, in which the decoupling component divides the power circuit into a large time scale system and a small time scale system in order to reduce computing effort. This paper also proposes the FPGA+CPU heterogeneous computing architecture for implementing this multitime scale simulation. In FPGA, there is a complete small time-scale EMT engine, which support the flexibly circuit modeling with any topology. Finally, the test system is connected to an DFIG controller based on Labview to verify the feasibility of the test system.展开更多
AIM: This study was undertaken to evaluate the hepatic effects of silybum marianum on non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS: In 72 patients affected by NAFLD, main metabolic, hepatic and anti-inflammatory...AIM: This study was undertaken to evaluate the hepatic effects of silybum marianum on non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS: In 72 patients affected by NAFLD, main metabolic, hepatic and anti-inflammatory parameters were assayed after 3 mo of a restricted diet and before silymarin treatment (twice a day orally). The brightness of liver echography texture (hepatorenal ratio brightness) was also defined at same time. These evaluations were repeated after 6 mo of treatment. RESULTS: Serum levels of some metabolic and anti-inflammatory data nonsignificantly lowered after 6 mo of silymarin. On the contrary, Steato test, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were significantly (P < 0.001) reduced. Instead, the AST/ALT ratio unchanged. Finally, the hepatorenal brightness ratio, as an index of hepatic steatosis, significantly (P < 0.05) dropped. CONCLUSION: The obtained results indicate that silymarin appears to be effective to reduce the biochemical, inflammatory and ultrasonic indices of hepatic steatosis. Some parameters indicative of early stage of atherosclerosis were also lowered.展开更多
文摘Background: A new rapid Immunochromatographic test (ICT) kit (MPT64 TB Ag Kit) for detection of MPT64 Antigen in M. tuberculosis (MTB) isolates used for rapid identification of MTB isolates developed by SD (Standard Diagnostics) Bio line, South Korea was evaluated. The ICT is a rapid, reliable and cheaper method that can be used instead of conventional biochemical tests for confirming MTB in culture isolates in resource limited laboratories. The study also evaluated the ability of ICT to detect MPT64-Antigen before the micro MGIT could signal positive. Material/Methods: A total of 450 sputum samples of individual patients were used for the study. 152 isolates of Mycobacteria were recovered from solid and liquid media. These strains were tested for the detection of MPT64-antigen. H37Rv strain was served as the positive reference control and also used for early detection of Antigen experiment. Findings: The development of bands on both test and sample region when H37Rv strain was tested were seen (MPT64 antigen positive). When 138 MTB isolates were tested, it showed a similar banding pattern indicating 100% sensitivity. MPT64 band formation was not detected in any of the 14 isolates indicating 100% specificity. Both PPV & NPV were 100%. All the isolates negative for MPT64 Ag were confirmed as MOTT by conventional bio-chemical PNBA. The H37Rv strain showed a faint band from the 2nd day onwards from inoculation till 3rd day in the earlier Antigen detection experiment. Conclusion: Rapid identification of MTB culture isolate is a pressing need for diagnosis and proceeding to perform drug susceptibility testing. MPT64 TB Ag detection ICT kit is a rapid, reliable method, good substitute for molecular identification methods, and conventional biochemical test which is time-consuming and technically demanding. The early detection of Antigen can be used as an effective tool in diagnosis.
文摘This investigation deals with the intelligent system for parallel fault-tolerant diagnostic tests construction. A modified parallel algorithm for fault-tolerant diagnostic tests construction is proposed. The algorithm is allowed to optimize processing time on tests construction. A matrix model of data and knowledge representation, as well as various kinds of regularities in data and knowledge are presented. Applied intelligent system for diagnostic of mental health of population which is developed with the use of intelligent system for parallel fault-tolerant DTs construction is suggested.
文摘Presented in this manuscript are conventional electrical engineering tools to model the earth as a rotating electrical machine. Calculations using known parameters of the earth and measured field data has resulted in new understanding of the earth’s electrical system and gyroscopic rotation. The material makeup of the inner earth is better understood based on derived permeability and permittivity constants. The planet has been modeled as simple coils and then as a parallel impedance circuit which has led to fundamental insight into planetary speed control and RLC combination for Schumann Resonance of 7.83 Hz. Torque and Voltage Constants and the inverse Speed Constant are calculated using three methods and all compare favorably with Newton’s Gravitational Constant. A helical resonator is referenced and Schumann’s Resonant ideal frequency is calculated and compared with others idealism. A new theory of gravity based on particle velocity selector at the poles is postulated. Two equations are presented as the needed links between Faraday’s electromagnetism and Newtonian physics. Acceleration and Deceleration of earth is explained as a centripetal governor. A new equation for planetary attraction and the attraction of atomic matter is theorized. Rotation of the earth’s electrical coil is explained in terms of the Richardson effect. Electric power transfer from the sun to the planets is proposed via Flux Transfer Events. The impact of this evolving science of electromagnetic modeling of planets will be magnified as the theory is proven, and found to be useful for future generations of engineers and scientists who seek to discover our world and other planets.
基金supported under Australian Research Council’s Discovery Projects funding scheme(project No. DP120101761)
文摘Rolling dynamic compaction (RDC),which employs non-circular module towed behind a tractor,is an innovative soil compaction method that has proven to be successful in many ground improvement applications.RDC involves repeatedly delivering high-energy impact blows onto the ground surface,which improves soil density and thus soil strength and stiffness.However,there exists a lack of methods to predict the effectiveness of RDC in different ground conditions,which has become a major obstacle to its adoption.For this,in this context,a prediction model is developed based on linear genetic programming (LGP),which is one of the common approaches in application of artificial intelligence for nonlinear forecasting.The model is based on in situ density-related data in terms of dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) results obtained from several projects that have employed the 4-sided,8-t impact roller (BH-1300).It is shown that the model is accurate and reliable over a range of soil types.Furthermore,a series of parametric studies confirms its robustness in generalizing data.In addition,the results of the comparative study indicate that the optimal LGP model has a better predictive performance than the existing artificial neural network (ANN) model developed earlier by the authors.
文摘The imminent danger of the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated research in pharmaceuticals that either target the viral Spike proteins fusion with ACE2 receptors,or the infectious RNA replication that often overwhelms immune defences.The scope of this review was to elucidate the main human vulnerabilities to Covid-19,including the accumulation of ACE2 receptors in testes,adipose tissue,thyroid,heart and kidneys that escalate viral affinity in males,the aged,and certain medical conditions,including diabetes,CVD,and pulmonary diseases.Pre-existing inflammation inherent in obesity may exacerbate the“cytokine storm,”a rampaging immune reaction during the course of Covid-19 that is deleterious to the host.We examined the molecular dynamics illustrating the action of new therapeutics necessary for Covid-19 patients;the estradiol advantage hypothesis;alternative therapies including hormone replacement procedures and mesenchymal stem cells;plus preventive and protective interventions.The current perspective also explored the primary components of dysregulated health predisposing individuals to Covid-19,including hormonal imbalance,increased lipids and lipoproteins,thyroid dysfunction,degraded fitness,and age-related testosterone decline accompanied by cortisol increase that provokes stress eating behaviours and weight accumulation.Obesity increases the probability of Covid-19 infection due to its abundance of ACE2 receptors;while physical activity may decrease Covid-19 vulnerability,by reducing fat and increasing muscle mass that manifests a relatively inhibited ACE2 expression.Several weight management solutions feature lasers and radiofrequency which diminish subcutaneous adiposity but do not enhance fitness.A data metanalysis of seven recently published clinical studies on 95 obese individuals,73 males and 22 females with an average BMI of 30.9,demonstrated visceral fat reduction combined with increased skeletal muscle mass.It also revealed a statistically significant decrease in BMI,lipids,lipoproteins,inflammation and toxicity as measured by CRP,Creatinine and Bilirubin respectively,juxtaposed by optimally healthier levels of Cortisol,Testosterone,Free T3,IGF-1,Insulin,and the appetite controlling hormones Leptin and Ghrelin.
文摘The beneficial acclimation hypothesis (BAH) predicts that animals acclimated to a particular temperature have enhanced performance or fitness at that temperature in comparison with animals acclimated to other temperatures. The BAH has been tested by a variety of empirical examinations, and was rejected by some of them. In order to provide new evidences for the BAH, the effects of acute and acclimation temperature (AT) on locomotor performance of Macrobiotus hufelandi (Tardigrada: Macrobiotidae) were investigated. The tardigrades were collected from Nanwutai, Qinling Mountains which traverse from west to east in central China. The subjects were acclimated to either 2℃ or 22℃ for 2 weeks. The animal was transferred onto a frosted slide and allowed to walk freely at the performance temperature (PT) 2℃ or 22℃. Only one individual was tested per test bout, which lasted from three to five minutes. To avoid occurrence of thermal acclimation effect, the standard adaptation time was limited to 1.5 min. Each subject was tested for once at the same PT, and was tested only at one PT. A total of 25 individuals were tested and measured at the same PT. The locomotor performance of the animals was recorded with a digital video camera mounted on a microscope at 4×10 amplification and replayed on a PC. Every subject was identified. Walking speed (WS) and percentage of time moving (PTM) at both PTs (2℃ or 22℃) were selected as the rate parameters of locomotor performance. The two-way repeated measures ANOVA with a significance level of α= 0.05 and Duncan multiple range test were used to analyze the data. WS of the animals acclimated to and tested at the same temperatures was significantly faster than that for animals acclimated to and tested at the different temperatures, similarly, PTM of the animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 22℃ was significantly greater than PTM of animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 2℃, which indicated that the animals acclimated to a particular temperature have enhanced locomotor performance in that temperature relative to the animals acclimated to that temperature in other thermal environment. WS of the animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 22℃ was significantly faster than WS of animals acclimated to 2℃ and tested at 22℃, PTM of the animals acclimated to 22℃ and tested at 22℃ was significantly greater than PTM of animals acclimated to 2℃ and tested at 22℃. These results supported the BAH. It could be concluded that the PT and thermal acclimation as well as the interaction between the PT and AT significantly influence the locomotor performance of M.hufelandi, and that, despite the existence of a few results of this study that don’t support the BAH, some results of this study support for this hypothesis, and that the animals acclimated to a particular temperature have enhanced locomotor performance in that temperature relative to the animals acclimated to that temperature in other thermal environment, implying that any performance temperature that deviates from the acclimation temperature could cause the reduction of the walking speed which is closely related to the fitness of the M.hufelandi.
文摘The present pagination reports both Brownian diffusion and thermophoresis aspects subject to magneto hydrodynamic Williamson fluid model.Assuming the flow is unsteady and blood is treated as Williamson fluid over a wedge with radiation.The governing equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations by using similarity variables.The analytical solutions of the transformed governing equations are obtained by using the RK 4th order method along with shooting technique solver.The effects of various physical parameters such as Hartmann number,local Weissenberg number,radiation parameter,unsteadiness parameter,Prandtl number,Lewis number,Brownian diffusion,thermophoresis,wedge angle parameter,moving wedge parameter,on velocity,temperature,concentration,skin friction,heat transfer rate and mass transfer rate have been discussed in detail.The velocity and temperature profile deprives for larger We and an opposite trend is observed for concentration.The radiation parameter is propositional to temperature and a counter behaviour is observed for Pr.
文摘Two new regularization algorithms for solving the first-kind Volterra integral equation, which describes the pressure-rate deconvolution problem in well test data interpretation, are developed in this paper. The main features of the problem are the strong nonuniform scale of the solution and large errors (up to 15%) in the input data. In both algorithms, the solution is represented as decomposition on special basic functions, which satisfy given a priori information on solution, and this idea allow us significantly to improve the quality of approximate solution and simplify solving the minimization problem. The theoretical details of the algorithms, as well as the results of numerical experiments for proving robustness of the algorithms, are presented.
文摘Long-span bridges are special structures that require advanced analysis techniques to examine their performance. This paper presents a procedure developed to model the Confederation Bridge using 3-D beam elements. The model was validated using the data collected before the opening of the bridge to the public. The bridge was instrumented to conduct fullscale static and dynamic tests. The static tests were to measure the deflection of the bridge pier while the dynamic tests to measure the free vibrations of the pier due to a sudden release of the static load. Confederation Bridge is one of the longest reinforced concrete bridges in the world. It connects the province of Prince Edward Island and the province of New Brunswick in Canada. Due to its strategic location and vital role as a transportation link between these two provinces, it was designed using higher safety factors than those for typical highway bridges. After validating the present numerical model, a procedure was developed to evaluate the performance of similar bridges subjected to traffic and seismic loads. It is of interest to note that the foundation stiffness and the modulus of elasticity of the concrete have significant effects on the structural responses of the Confederation Bridge.
文摘Members of the British Textile Machinery Association(BTMA)can look back on 2025 as a year marked by notable technological advances and continued progress in global trade,despite an uncertain and volatile market.“Our members have been very active over the past 12 months and this has resulted in new technologies for the production of technical fibres and fabrics,the introduction of AI and machine learning into process control systems and significant advances in materials testing,”says BTMA CEO Jason Kent.“There’s real excitement about what can be achieved in 2026 as we look ahead to upcoming exhibitions such as JEC Composites in Paris in March and Techtextil in Frankfurt in April.”
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51239007)
文摘The size and shape of the effective test area are crucial to consider when short-crested waves are created by segmented wavemakers. The range of the effective test area of short-crested waves simulated by two-sided segmented wavemakers is analyzed in this paper. The experimental investigation on the wave field distribution of short-crested waves generated by two-sided segmented wavemakers is conducted by using an array of wave gauges. Wave spectra and directional spreading function are analyzed and the results show that when the main direction is at a certain angle with the normal line of wave generators, the wave field of 3D short-crested waves generated by two-sided segmented wavemakers has good spatial uniformity within the model test area. The effective test area can provide good wave environments for seakeeping model tests of various ocean engineering structures in the deep ocean engineering basin.
文摘A maximum test in lieu of forcing a choice between the two dependent samples t-test and Wilcoxon signed-ranks test is proposed. The maximum test, which requires a new table of critical values, maintains nominal α while guaranteeing the maximum power of the two constituent tests. Critical values, obtained via Monte Carlo methods, are uniformly smaller than the Bonferroni-Dunn adjustment, giving it power superiority when testing for treatment alternatives of shift in location parameter when data are sampled from non-normal distributions.
基金This work was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2018YFB1304902)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.12004034,U1813211,22005247,11904372,51502007,52072323,52122211,12174019,and 51972058)+1 种基金the Gen-eral Research Fund of Hong Kong(Project No.11217221)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation Funded Project(Grant No.2021M690386).
文摘Potassium-ion batteries(PIBs)are considered promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries owing to cost-effective potassium resources and a suitable redox potential of-2.93 V(vs.-3.04 V for Li+/Li).However,the exploration of appro-priate electrode materials with the correct size for reversibly accommodating large K+ions presents a significant challenge.In addition,the reaction mecha-nisms and origins of enhanced performance remain elusive.Here,tetragonal FeSe nanoflakes of different sizes are designed to serve as an anode for PIBs,and their live and atomic-scale potassiation/depotassiation mechanisms are revealed for the first time through in situ high-resolution transmission electron micros-copy.We found that FeSe undergoes two distinct structural evolutions,sequen-tially characterized by intercalation and conversion reactions,and the initial intercalation behavior is size-dependent.Apparent expansion induced by the intercalation of K+ions is observed in small-sized FeSe nanoflakes,whereas unexpected cracks are formed along the direction of ionic diffusion in large-sized nanoflakes.The significant stress generation and crack extension originating from the combined effect of mechanical and electrochemical interactions are elucidated by geometric phase analysis and finite-element analysis.Despite the different intercalation behaviors,the formed products of Fe and K_(2)Se after full potassiation can be converted back into the original FeSe phase upon depotassiation.In particular,small-sized nanoflakes exhibit better cycling perfor-mance with well-maintained structural integrity.This article presents the first successful demonstration of atomic-scale visualization that can reveal size-dependent potassiation dynamics.Moreover,it provides valuable guidelines for optimizing the dimensions of electrode materials for advanced PIBs.
文摘For India to achieve elimination by 2030,the challenges posed by Plasmodium(P.)vivax cannot be overlooked owing to its burden and unique biology.In 2023,in India,about 224000 malaria cases were reported,and a significant proportion(40%)were P.vivax cases.In P.vivax infection,the persistence of dormant liver stage of parasite,i.e.,hypnozoites,leading to relapses weeks or months later poses challenge in its elimination.
文摘The use of alternative fuels to generate mechanical and thermal energy in engines is a promising and sought-after technological area with its own unique advantages and characteristics.Consequently,enhancing the technical,economic,and environmental efficiency of gas engines fueled by propane-butane mixture and syngas through optimized operating cycle parameters(including valve timing,ignition timing angle,fuel mixture composition,and compression ratio)is a pressing imperative for scientific and energy sectors.The aim of the study was to investigate and compare the performance of an engine with different compression ratios running on a propane-butane mixture and laboratory syngas.The research’s primary originality lies in its joint study of syngas production technology and the evaluation of the efficiency of a mini power plant fueled by the resulting gas and conventional gas.This article presents a description of the experimental setup,data on measuring instruments,technical characteristics of the mini-power plant,the process for obtaining laboratory syngas,the properties of the gaseous fuels used,and experimental methods.Data on air and fuel consumption,as well as engine efficiency at different compression ratios when running on a propane-butane mixture and syngas,were obtained and analyzed.Converting an engine from a propane-butane mixture to syngas results in a reduction in power of almost 30% and efficiency by 13%–33%.Increasing the compression ratio by 0.9 units causes a rise in maximum efficiency from 0.177 to 0.235 for an engine running on a propane-butane mixture and an increase in maximum efficiency from 0.136 to 0.161 for a syngas engine.It has been confirmed that the compression ratio significantly impacts the technical and economic performance of an engine running on gaseous fuel.The obtained results can be used to modernize existing engines for operation on alternative fuels(syngas)and to design new mini-power plants with promising technical,economic,and environmental characteristics.
基金financially supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFF0703600)。
文摘Highlights By conjugating the same anti-N monoclonal antibody(mAb4-mAb1)with colloidal gold or fluorescent microspheres,this study developed two rapid point-of-care antigen immunochromatographic strips for the detection of porcine deltacoronavirus.The fluorescent microsphere-based lateral flow test strip demonstrated a sensitivity of 10^(1.7)TCID_(50)/0.1 mL,which is fourfold higher than that of the colloidal gold-based assay.Porcine deltacoronavirus(PDCoV)is a recently identified enteric coronavirus that causes an acute infectious disease in piglets,leading to diarrhea,vomiting,dehydration,and mortality(Hu et al.2015).
基金supported by the State Grid Science and Technology Project (Title: Technology Research On Large Scale EMT Real-time simulation customized platform, FX71-17-001)
文摘As the proportion of renewable energy increases, the interaction between renewable energy devices and the grid continues to enhance. Therefore, the renewable energy dynamic test in a power system has become more and more important. Traditional dynamic simulation systems and digital-analog hybrid simulation systems are difficult to compromise on the economy, flexibility and accuracy. A multi-time scale test system of doubly fed induction generator based on FPGA+ CPU heterogeneous calculation is proposed in this paper. The proposed test system is based on the ADPSS simulation platform. The power circuit part of the test system is setup up using the EMT(electromagnetic transient simulation) simulation, and the control part uses the actual physical devices. In order to realize the close-loop testing for the physical devices, the power circuit must be simulated in real-time. This paper proposes a multi-time scale simulation algorithm, in which the decoupling component divides the power circuit into a large time scale system and a small time scale system in order to reduce computing effort. This paper also proposes the FPGA+CPU heterogeneous computing architecture for implementing this multitime scale simulation. In FPGA, there is a complete small time-scale EMT engine, which support the flexibly circuit modeling with any topology. Finally, the test system is connected to an DFIG controller based on Labview to verify the feasibility of the test system.
文摘AIM: This study was undertaken to evaluate the hepatic effects of silybum marianum on non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS: In 72 patients affected by NAFLD, main metabolic, hepatic and anti-inflammatory parameters were assayed after 3 mo of a restricted diet and before silymarin treatment (twice a day orally). The brightness of liver echography texture (hepatorenal ratio brightness) was also defined at same time. These evaluations were repeated after 6 mo of treatment. RESULTS: Serum levels of some metabolic and anti-inflammatory data nonsignificantly lowered after 6 mo of silymarin. On the contrary, Steato test, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were significantly (P < 0.001) reduced. Instead, the AST/ALT ratio unchanged. Finally, the hepatorenal brightness ratio, as an index of hepatic steatosis, significantly (P < 0.05) dropped. CONCLUSION: The obtained results indicate that silymarin appears to be effective to reduce the biochemical, inflammatory and ultrasonic indices of hepatic steatosis. Some parameters indicative of early stage of atherosclerosis were also lowered.
