Optimal Level Research Articles

Engineer CEOs and corporate investment efficiency

Purpose This paper aims to examine whether CEOs with an engineering background increase corporate investment efficiency (CIE). The authors further investigate the role of engineering directors on boards of the above association. Design/methodology/approach Drawing from upper-echelon theory, which suggests that corporate outcomes are a reflection of its top management characteristics, the authors hypothesise a positive association between engineer CEOs and CIE and a positive moderation role of the proportion of engineer directors on boards in the above association. The authors examine this link using a sample of Australian Securities Exchange 200 firms from 2015 to 2022. Engineer CEO data is hand-collected from corporate annual report biographies and investment efficiency is a measure that captures whether the investments are maintained at optimal levels relative to industry-year benchmarks, following the approaches of Biddle et al. (2009), Chen et al. (2011) and the average values of both models. Findings The results indicate support for the hypotheses, revealing that firms managed by engineer CEOs have higher investment efficiency than their counterpart firms. This association is exacerbated in the presence of a higher proportion of engineer directors on boards. The results are robust to year and industry-fixed effects, propensity score matching, alternative measures of investment efficiency and robust standard errors. Our results also remain valid for an industry sub-sample using certain industries in which engineering expertise maybe more desirable (e.g. metals and mining). Research limitations/implications By showing that engineer CEOs are significantly associated with CIE, the authors contribute to upper-echelon literature examining the link between CEO characteristics and corporate outcomes, particularly, investment decision efficiency. The influence of engineering background on corporate outcomes is less examined in the literature; thus, the authors contribute to this thin literature. Originality/value The findings are informative to potential investors in evaluating firms’ investment efficiency before investing in firms. For example, firms with engineer CEOs are likely to maintain efficient investment levels in future years.

Clinical Utility of Fasting Plasma Glucose and Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) for the Prediction of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Diagnosed by Oral Glucose Tolerance Testing in Cirrhotic Patients with Impaired Fasting Plasma Glucose

Objective: Use of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels has been ineffective in diagnosing diabetes in cirrhotic patients. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and optimal cut-off levels of FPG and HbA1c for effective prediction of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) as definitely diagnosed by the 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test (75-g OGTT) in cirrhotic patients with impaired fasting plasma glucose (IFG).Material and Methods: This single-center, cross-sectional study conducted in Nan Hospital included cirrhotic patients with IFG that were diagnosed as T2DM or non-T2DM via 75-g OGTT. The clinical factors associated with the presence of T2DM were investigated using univariate and multivariate regression models.Results: T2DM was diagnosed according to 75-g OGTT in 55 of the 103 participants (53.40%); impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) was diagnosed in 22.33%, and normal OGTT results were found in 24.27%. An FPG level of ≥104.5 mg/dL and an HbA1c level of ≥5.25% were found to be the optimal cut-off levels for the prediction of T2DM. The FPG level had a sensitivity of 76.4%, 95% confidence interval (CI) [63.0%, 86.8%], and a specificity of 37.5%; 95% CI [24.0%, 52.6%]. HbA1c levels had a sensitivity of 67.3%; 95% CI [53.3%, 79.3%] and a specificity of 37.5%; 95% CI [24.0%, 52.6%]. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, high Child-Pugh score, and high level of FPG before the 75-g OGTT testing were significantly associated with T2DM.Conclusion: More than half of the cirrhotic patients with IFG had T2DM diagnosed by 75-g OGTT. An FPG level of ≥104.5 mg/dL and an HbA1c level of ≥5.25% were found to be the optimal cut-off levels for the prediction of the presence of T2DM in those with cirrhosis and IFG.

STRATEGI BADAN PENDAPATAN DAERAH KABUPATEN BUTON TENGAH DALAM UPAYA PENINGKATAN PENDAPATAN DAERAH

This study aims to analyze the Regional Revenue Agency (BAPENDA) planning strategies of Buton Tengah Regency in increasing regional income. Using a qualitative approach, the study involved 20 respondents selected through a PSS (5:1) mechanism and 5 informants chosen purposively. Data collection was conducted through a series of in-depth interviews to evaluate organizational performance based on five key dimensions: productive efficiency, service standards, responsiveness, compliance level, and management transparency. Data analysis employed the interactive approach developed by Milles and Huberman. The findings indicate that the performance of BAPENDA Buton Tengah is rated as "satisfactory" when assessed across these five dimensions. To enhance regional revenue, BAPENDA implements tax planning strategies to maintain tax burdens at an optimal level, allowing companies or individuals to meet tax obligations while maximizing financial benefits or efficiency. Generally, the ideal tax planning percentage for Buton Tengah is measured by Tax Revenue Efficiency (a minimum of 20%-25% of total PAD) and a balanced Tax Ratio in the range of approximately 10%-15%, depending on the main economic sectors of Buton Tengah.

Mechanical and chemical characterization of biochar-reinforced polystyrene composites

This study investigates the chemical interactions and mechanical characteristics of composites made of polystyrene reinforced with biochar. Polystyrene-based resin (PBR) was combined with plantain peel-derived biochar in different weight ratios (10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%). The Brinell hardness test, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to evaluate the properties of the composites. The results of the hardness test showed a non-monotonic pattern, with hardness first decreasing at low biochar loadings (10% and 20%), then significantly increasing at 30% biochar. At 40% biochar, the hardness then somewhat dropped, indicating that around 30% filler is the optimal biochar level for hardness. As the biochar loading increased, FTIR measurement showed that hydroxyl groups (-OH) were introduced and that the intensity of carbonyl groups (C = O) increased. According to SEM analysis, a uniform surface was found at lower biochar loadings, but at larger biochar contents, the surface became irregular and rough. In addition to providing insights into the chemical interactions at the interface between the biochar and the polymer matrix, these findings demonstrate the possibility of incorporating biochar to alter the mechanical properties of PBR.

Effects of Isalo scorpion cytotoxic peptide on growth, immune performance, and intestinal flora of yellow-feathered broilers

IntroductionThis study aimed to investigate the effects of Isalo scorpion cytotoxic peptide (IsCT) on the growth performance, immune function, and gut microbiota of yellow-feathered broilers.MethodsThe experiment involved supplementing a corn-soybean meal-based diet with various dietary levels of IsCT. The experiment adopted a completely randomized design. A total of 240 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were randomly divided into six groups: a control group (CON), a chlortetracycline group (CTC), and four groups receiving a basal diet with 50, 100, 150, or 200 mg/ kg IsCT (IsCT50, IsCT100, IsCT150, and IsCT200). The trial period lasted 60 days.ResultsThe results showed that the average final body weight and average daily weight gain of the IsCT150 and IsCT200 groups were significantly higher than those of the CON group (p < 0.05). Compared to the CTC group, the average daily feed intake in group III was significantly lower (p < 0.05). The feed conversion ratios of the IsCT150 and IsCT200 groups were significantly lower than those of the IsCT50 and CON groups (p < 0.05). Albumin levels in the CTC and IsCT150 groups were significantly higher than those in the CON, IsCT100, and IsCT50 groups. Alanine transaminase levels in the IsCT150 group were significantly lower than those in the IsCT50, IsCT200, CON, and CTC groups (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference compared with the IsCT100 group (p < 0.05). IgA levels in the IsCT150, IsCT200, and CTC groups were significantly higher than those in the IsCT50 group (p < 0.05). IgG levels in the CTC, IsCT100, IsCT150, and IsCT200 groups were significantly higher than those in the IsCT50 and CON groups (p < 0.05). 16S rRNA sequencing indicated significant differences in the caecal microbiota between the IsCT and CON groups (p < 0.05). The abundance of Bacteroidetes increased, whereas that of Firmicutes decreased in the IsCT groups; however, the difference was not significant (p < 0.05). The relative abundances of Actinobacteriota and Patescibacteria were significantly different in the IsCT100 group (p < 0.05).DiscussionIn conclusion, supplementing the basal diet with IsCT improved growth performance, immune function, and gut microbiota of yellow-feathered broilers at an optimal supplementation level of 150 mg/kg.

Hybrid intelligence – systematic approach and framework to determine the level of Human-AI collaboration for production management use cases

AbstractArtificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have emerged as transformative technologies in production management, enhancing decision-making and operational efficiency across a range of use cases. The challenge of determining the optimal level of Human-AI collaboration in decision-making processes persists for many organizations, despite the potential benefits of such integration. However, the current systematic approaches frequently lack a structured approach to determine the level of Human-AI collaboration in production management use cases. This results in inconsistent applications and suboptimal outcomes. This study presents a first and superior systematic approach for the systematic evaluation, development and implementation of AI in production management and introduces a structured framework that can be employed to assess and determine the optimal level of Human-AI collaboration for a range of production use cases. The framework classifies use cases based on critical factors such as data availability, process variability, error susceptibility, and decision complexity. This classification assists managers in calibrating the balance between automation and human intervention. The application of this framework could enhance the efficacy, productivity, and accuracy of Human-AI collaboration in production management. Furthermore, the systematic approach incorporates continuous evaluation and adaptation, ensuring long-term success in dynamic production environments. These findings provide a practical tool for managers to strategically implement AI, improving decision-making processes and operational outcomes. The proposed framework offers immediate opportunities to enhance production management through a structured, scalable, and human-centered approach to AI integration.

Dietary Modulation of the Immune System

Recent insights into the influence of nutrition on immune system components have driven the development of dietary strategies targeting the prevention and management of major metabolic-inflammatory diseases. This review summarizes the bidirectional relationship between nutrition and immunocompetence, beginning with an overview of immune system components and their functions. It examines the effects of nutritional status, dietary patterns, and food bioactives on systemic inflammation, immune cell populations, and lymphoid tissues, as well as their associations with infectious and chronic disease pathogenesis. The mechanisms by which key nutrients influence immune constituents are delineated, focusing on vitamins A, D, E, C, and B, as well as minerals including zinc, iron, and selenium. Also highlighted are the immunomodulatory effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as bioactive phenolic compounds and probiotics, given their expanding relevance. Each section addresses the implications of nutritional and nutraceutical interventions involving these nutrients within the broader context of major infectious, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. This review further underscores that, while targeted nutrient supplementation can effectively restore immune function to optimal levels, caution is necessary in certain cases, as it may increase morbidity in specific diseases. In other instances, dietary counseling should be integrated to ensure that therapeutic goals are achieved safely and effectively.

Ultraviolet and infrared radiation in Australia: assessing the benefits, risks, and optimal exposure guidelines

Despite extensive research, determining the optimal level of sunlight exposure for human health remains a challenge, emphasizing the need for ongoing scientific inquiry into this critical aspect of human well-being. This review aims to elucidate how different components of the solar spectrum, particularly near-infrared (NIR) radiation and ultraviolet radiation (UVR) affect human health in diverse ways depending on factors such as time of day and duration of exposure. Sunlight has beneficial effects from the production of melatonin by NIR and vitamin D by UVB. Sunlight also causes harmful effects as evidenced by oxidative stress and DNA damage. Exposure to morning and evening sunlight when the UV index is below 3 is suggested to be beneficial for harnessing its positive effects while avoiding the harmful effects of UVR when the UV index is 3 or higher. Understanding the optimal timing and duration of sunlight exposure is crucial for harnessing its beneficial effects while minimizing its harmful consequences by adopting appropriate sun protection measures. By adhering to sun protection guidelines when the UV index is 3 or more and incorporating strategic exposure to NIR rays when the UV index is less than 3, individuals can optimize their health outcomes while mitigating the risks associated with sun exposure. Given that the effects of sun exposure can be both harmful and beneficial, and Australia’s unique geographical position where it experiences the highest levels of exposure to sunlight, it is vital to understand the appropriate level and timing of sun exposure to live healthy under the Australian sun.

Effects of Tithonia diversifolia Extract as a Feed Additive on Digestibility and Performance of Hair Lambs

Animal production requires efficiency, safety and environmental sustainability. Bioactive compounds from tropical plants could modulate ruminal fermentation, providing an alternative method to antibiotic treatment and addressing concerns about antibiotic resistance. In this study, the aim was to determine the effects of Tithonia diversifolia extract (TDE) on performance, intake, digestibility and blood parameters [i.e., glucose, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT)] in crossbreed sheep. The main biocompounds of the TDE include caffeic acid (CA), quercetin (QCT), luteolin (LT) and apigenin (AP). Experiment 1: An in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) study was conducted to determine the optimal inclusion levels. The IVDM values were 73.09a, 82.03b, 81.01b, 73.20a and 74.51a for the control, 5, 10, 15 and 20 g/kg for the DM treatments, respectively (R-Sq adj = 0.857). The levels of 5 and 10 g were selected for the in vivo experiment. Experiment 2: Twenty-eight male crossbred hair lambs were assigned to four treatments (n = 7): control, 20 mg monensin/day, 5 g TDE/day and 10 g TDE/day groups. No differences in animal performance were observed, including body weight and feed conversion (p > 0.05). The TDE at 10 g/day improved NDF digestibility) (61.32%) and reduced the ruminal acetate to propionate ratio. The total digestible nutrients (TDN) were higher in 10 g TDE treatment with 66.41% and the lowest acetate production (67.82%) (p = 0.042), and propionate production (21.07%) were observed. The TDE were safe at 5 g and 10 g/day for liver function and exhibited lower BUN levels suggesting an improvement in protein metabolism. TDE extract at 10 g/day (TDE10), showed improvements in total tract digestibility of NDF and reduced the ruminal acetate to propionate ratio. However, due to TDE10 reducing the DM intake, the improvements in digestibility and ruminal fermentation were not reflected in growth performance improvements.

The US Individualism–Collectivism and Labor Investment Efficiency

ABSTRACTResearch Question/IssueWe examine whether the variation in the ndividualism–collectivism dimension within the US affects labor investment efficiency.Research Findings/InsightsUsing the collectivism index developed by existing literature, we find that firms headquartered in collectivist states are more likely to deviate from the optimal level of hiring. The effect is stronger in firms with high agency problems and information asymmetry. Additional analyses suggest that collectivism induces more inefficiency in firms with larger boards, less independent boards, firms with high R&D intensity, and states that adopt antitakeover laws.Theoretical/Academic ImplicationsOverall, we find convincing evidence that cultural differences across US states contribute to labor investment decisions.Practitioner/Policy ImplicationsThe study extends the existing literature on the effect of cultural dimensions on labor investment decisions, particularly in the context of the United States. It also extends our understanding of how cultural variations across headquarters states can adversely affect firm hiring and firing decisions.Jel ClassificationM14, G30, G34, G40

The Evolution of the U.S. Military Presence in Europe (2017–2023)

The article examines the evolution of the U.S. military presence in Europe as the whole and in key NATO member states between 2017 and 2023. The author employs the theory of armed forces development. The paper compares the size of the U.S. military presence in Europe at the end of the Cold War with that during the contemporary confrontation with Russia. By the mid-2020s, the size of the U.S. military presence, nearing 100 thousand troops can be considered close to its upper limit. The optimal level, taking into account capabilities and objectives, was estimated at 80 thousand troops. The dynamics of U.S. Army brigades’ deployments in Europe are explored. The article also traces the evolution of U.S. contingents in Italy and Germany, where military units were no longer predominant, having been largely replaced by various support forces, and their role as sources for reinforcing the U.S. forces in Eastern Europe. Also, the forms of U.S. military presence in Northern Norway are discussed. The author explores the U.S. approach to the rotational deployment of the Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT) in Poland (since 2017) and the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) in Romania (since 2022), along with the establishment of division and corps headquarters in both countries. The noticeable increase in U.S. military presence in Europe between February and June 2022 set the framework for the New NATO Force Model (NNFM), approved at Madrid summit, and underscored the significant contributions made by European member states.

Infant care transfers: simulating neonatal infant pathways and transfers across a neonatal network

Neonatal care for preterm and sick babies is organised into local areas around the United Kingdom, called Operational Delivery Networks. These networks coordinate between providers to ensure babies have the required care, close to home. There are three types of Neonatal Units offering distinct levels of needs-based care. The networks need to ensure that each unit operates at optimal cot levels, and the best quality care is provided. The possible impact of any changes to a network’s configuration on transfers and infant care, must be considered before any changes are implemented. Our simulation model reflects the infant pathways within a network allowing users to evaluate a variety of possible changes within the network. The model builds on previous literature by incorporating the ability to move an existing infant from a unit to release capacity as well as moving new arrivals between units. We also consider the potential environmental impact of the additional travel for parents visiting infants who have been transferred. We demonstrate how the model can be applied with a case network within which approximately 60,000 babies are born annually, a tenth of whom requiring some Neonatal Care. Of these infants, approximately 12% are transferred to another unit.

INNOVATIVE BLENDS OF GGBFS, METAKAOLIN, AND ALCCOFINE FOR ENHANCED MECHANICAL PROPERTIES IN GREEN CONCRETE

This research aims to improve the sustainability and mechanical properties of concrete by using partial replacement of cement with Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), Alccofine (AL), and Metakaolin (MK). The study compares the effects of different proportions of GGBFS (0-50%), Alccofine (0-20%), and Metakaolin (0-15%) on the compressive, tensile, and flexural strength and at curing ages of 7th, 28th, 56th, and 90th days. The effective proportions of the replacements were determined to be 30% GGBFS, 15 % Alccofine, and 10% Metakaolin in ratios, which considerably improved the structural characteristics of conventional concrete. A ternary blend of these optimal levels was subsequently studied to determine its synergistic effect on the mechanical properties and microstructure. The ternary blend of these optimal levels demonstrated a 67.1% increase in compressive strength at 28 days and a 51.2% increase at 90 days compared to the control mix. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis suggested that increased pozzolanic activities, an increase in densities of the microstructure, and packing densities of the particles were the key factors for the improved performance. The results highlight that through the application of supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs), there exist promising opportunities in attaining high performance at the same time as a low environmental footprint that could help in concrete innovation for more sustainable solutions.

Analysis of engineering performance of concrete comprising recycled crushed plastic waste and fly ash

This study investigated the attributes of blending of recycled crushed polypropylene plastic coarse aggregates (PPCA) and fly ash (FA) towards the fresh and hardened properties of concrete. Natural coarse aggregate was partially replaced with PPCA at volumetric replacement levels up to 30% and cement was replaced with FA up to 20%. Initially, the performance of PPCA and FA in concrete was investigated distinctly. The incorporation of 30% of PPCA in concrete rather impaired the workability (from 95 mm – 50 mm: 47%) and the compressive strength (from 44.6 MPa to 31.4 MPa: 29.7%). By appropriate using of a superplasticizer, the loss in the workability could be recovered. Microstructural investigation was conducted employing scanning electron microscope analysis; it showed that the formation of a weak interfacial transition zone between PPCA and cement paste to be the reason for strength reduction in PPCA concrete. In contrast, the addition of 10 – 20% of FA in concrete improved the workability by 63.2% – 100%, but yet again, the 28-day compressive strength reduced by 15.8 – 35.6%. Meanwhile, thermal conductivity results and constitutive relationships proved that the use of PPCA enhanced the thermal insulation property and ductility of PPCA concrete, respectively. Eventually, a total of six concrete batches with binary blended PPCA and FA were cast to find the optimum replacement levels. The optimum binary combination with reasonable strength and workability at a minimal cost was achieved to be 10% PPCA and 20% FA.

Methylthio Substituent in SAM Constructing Regulatory Bridge with Photovoltaic Perovskites.

Inverted (p-i-n) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have experienced remarkable advancements in recent years, which is largely attributed to the development of novel hole-transport layer (HTL) self-assembled monolayer (SAM) materials. Methoxy (MeO-) groups are typically introduced into SAM materials to enhance their wettability and effectively passivate the perovskite buried interface. However, MeO-based SAM materials exhibit a mismatch in highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) levels with perovskite layer due to the strong electron-donating capability of methoxy group. In this work, we introduced a methylthio (MeS-) substituent that is superior to methoxy as a highly versatile self-assembled molecular design strategy. As a soft base, sulfur atom forms a stronger Pb-S bond than oxygen. Additionally, within the CbzPh series of SAM materials, MeS-CbzPh demonstrates a more optimal HOMO level and enhanced hole transport properties. Consequently, the MeS-CbzPh HTL based device achieved an impressive power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 26.01 % and demonstrated high stability, retaining 93.3 % efficiency after 1000 hours of maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Moreover, in comparison with the commonly used 4PACz-based SAM molecular series, MeS-4PACz also exhibited the best performance among its peers. Our work provides valuable insights for the molecular design of SAM materials, offering a highly versatile functional substituent group.

Experimental design for testing Local Lorentz Invariance violation in gravity

Abstract Local Lorentz invariance is an important foundation of General Relativity, and
its high-precision testing can help to explore the unified theories. In this work, we focus on the local Lorentz violating effect in pure gravity with mass dimension $d$=6, and study the experimental design for testing local Lorentz violation with precision torsion pendulum experiments. By designing the striped test and source masses, and setting the appropriate azimuth angles of the experimental setup, we found the constraint accuracy of the local Lorentz violation coefficients is expected to be improved by one to two orders of magnitude compared with the international optimal level. Moreover, considering the difficulty level of changing the azimuth angle of the experimental setup in practical experiments, we proposed two experimental strategies and separately studied the azimuth-angle configurations corresponding to the optimal constraint of the local Lorentz violating coefficients, which can guide the development of the later experiments.

The Role of Dispositional Optimism in Psychological Well-Being and Social Anxiety Among University Students

Objectives: The primary goal of this study was to investigate the association between dispositional optimism psychological well-being and social anxiety in university students.Method: The correlational research design was used, and the sample was recruited employing the non-probability purposive sampling technique. The life Orientation Scale developed by Scheier et al., in 1994, the Psychological Well-being scale by Ryff & Keyes (1995), Social Anxiety Scale developed by Ejaz et al., (2020) along with the demographic sheet were utilized for the data collection. Results: The sample constituted 350 participants (165 males and 185 females), with ages ranging from 20-30 years (M=23.46, SD=3.22). Results revealed a significant association between dispositional optimism and all subscales of social anxiety and psychological well-being (p<.05). Similarly, significant differences among both genders were observed in levels of dispositional optimism, psychological well-being, and social anxiety (p<.01). Dispositional optimism and psychological wellbeing were also observed as the significant predictors of social anxiety in university students (p<.001). Likewise, the results proved that dispositional optimism was a significant moderator between psychological well-being and social anxiety (p<.01).Conclusion: the study concluded that dispositional optimism moderates the association between psychological well-being and a level of social anxiety.

The Biomechanics of Spinal Orthoses for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review of the Controlling Forces

Background: Orthotic treatment is a well-acknowledged conservative treatment for moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The efficacy of this treatment is significantly determined by the forces applied to the bodies of patients. However, there is uncertainty regarding the optimal force levels that should be applied to the patient’s torso by spinal orthosis. This study aims to identify reference values for the controlling forces in AIS management. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed in five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Web of Science). Only studies written in English and covering the force/pressure measurements of spinal orthosis for the treatment of AIS were included, without publication date restrictions. The methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) was employed for the methodological quality assessment, and force measurements were standardized to pressure in kilopascals (kPa) for comparison. Results: From the initial 10,452 records, 10 studies were admitted for the final analysis. All the included studies reported the interface pressure between the thoracic (T) pad and patient’s trunk, and seven studies evaluated the pressure from the thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) pad. These studies used different pressure sensors or transducers with the range from 5.6 to 82.5 kPa for the T pads, and 4.8 to 85.1 kPa for the TL/L pads. Four studies reported strap tensions of 26.8 to 60.4 N. Higher strap tension was correlated with increased interface pressure (r = 0.84). Conclusion: The mean strap tension was 42.5 N, the median interface pressure of the T pads was 8.75 kPa, and the median pressure of TL/L regions was 7.11 kPa without the outliers. The findings provide a baseline value for designing adjustable straps and strategically distributing pressure in orthoses.

Response of Microbiological Properties to Short-term Nitrogen Addition in Perennial Alpine Cultivated Grassland

Removing nitrogen limitation is necessary to increase plant productivity in alpine grasslands. A short-term nitrogen addition experiment was conducted to understand the effects of nitrogen addition on the soil physicochemical properties and microbial community structure of perennial alpine cultivated grassland in the region around Qinghai Lake. From June to August 2022, four N application gradients （T0： 0 kg·hm-2·a-1, T1： 22.5 kg·hm-2·a-1, T2： 45 kg·hm-2·a-1, T3： 67.5 kg·hm-2·a-1） were set up in a four-age perennial cultivated grassland, and soil samples were collected from the 0-20 cm soil layer. The soil physical and chemical properties and microbial community structure were determined under the different treatments. The results showed that soil water content （SWC）, soil organic carbon （SOC）, ammonium nitrogen （NH4+-N）, nitrate nitrogen （NO3--N）, available nitrogen （AN）, available phosphorus （AP）, total phosphorus （TP）, total nitrogen （TN）, and total carbon （TC） tended to increase with the increase in nitrogen application level and the T3 treatment significantly decreased the soil pH. Nitrogen addition did not significantly alter the Alpha diversity of soil microbial communities and different levels of nitrogen application affected the structure of soil microbial communities to different degrees. The T1 and T2 treatments increased the number of soil bacteria and fungi and T3 treatment decreased the number of soil bacteria and fungi. Nitrogen addition increased the relative abundance of the dominant flora of Actinobacteriota, Zygomycota, Blastococcus, and Gibberella and decreased the relative abundance of the dominant flora of Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, Sphingomonas, and Claroideoglomus. RDA analysis showed that SOC and soil electrical conductivity （EC） were the key soil physicochemical factors affecting changes in soil bacterial communities, and soil pH was the main factor affecting the distribution of soil fungal communities. Collectively, 67.5 kg·hm-2·a-1 may be the optimal level of N application to improve the soil environment of perennial alpine cultivated grasslands.

Prediction and Optimization of Surface Roughness and Cutting Forces in Turning Process Using ANN, SHAP Analysis, and Hybrid MCDM Method

As manufacturing technologies advance, the integration of artificial neural networks in machining high-hardness materials and optimization of multi-objective parameters is becoming increasingly prevalent. By employing modeling and optimization strategies during the machining of such materials, manufacturers can improve surface roughness and tool life while minimizing cutting time, tool vibrations, and cutting forces. In this paper, the aim was to analyze the impact of input parameters (cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and insert radius) on surface roughness and cutting forces during the machining of 90MnCrV7 using feed-forward neural network models and SHAP analysis. Afterward, multi-criteria optimization was applied to determine the optimal parameter levels to achieve minimum surface roughness and cutting forces using the modified PSI-TOPSIS method. According to the SHAP analysis, the insert radius has the most significant impact on the surface roughness and passive force, while in the multi-criteria analysis, according to ANOVA results, the insert radius has the most significant impact on all considered outputs. The results show that an insert radius of 0.8 mm, a cutting speed of 260 m/min, a feed rate of 0.08 mm, and a depth of cut of 0.5 mm are the optimal combination of input parameters.