bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Potential Role Exists for Nutritional Interventions in the Chronic Phase of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Concussion and Sports-Related Concussion: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ryan Tansy , Nagle Sarah , Daly Ed , Pearce Alan J. , Ryan Lisa
Published: August 2023

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) represents a significant burden for individuals, economies, and healthcare systems worldwide. Recovery protocols focus on medication and physiotherapy-based interventions. Animal studies have shown that antioxidants, branched-chain amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids may improve neurophysiological outcomes after TBI. However, there appears to be a paucity of nutritional interventions in humans with chronic (≥1 month) symptomology post-mTBI. This systematic literature review aimed to consolidate evidence for nutrition and dietary-related interventions in humans with chronic mTBI. The review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42021277780) and conducted following the Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Three reviewers searched five databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL Complete and Cochrane), which yielded 6164 studies. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The main finding was the lack of interventions conducted to date, and a quality assessment of the included studies was found to be fair to good. Due to heterogeneity, a meta-analysis was not feasible. The six nutrition areas identified (omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin, Enzogenol®, MLC901, ketogenic diet and phytocannabinoids) were safe and well-tolerated. It was found that these nutritional interventions may improve cognitive failures, sleep disturbances, anxiety, physical disability, systolic blood pressure volume and sport concussion assessment tool scores following mTBI. Potential areas of improvement identified for future studies included blinding, reporting compliance, and controlling for confounders. In conclusion, further research of higher quality is needed to investigate the role of nutrition in recovery from mTBI to reduce the burden of chronic outcomes following mTBI.
Wildlife, Reservoir of Zoonotic Agents: Moving beyond Denial and Fear
Authors: Davoust Bernard , Laidoudi Younes
Published: August 2023

Human infections that originate in animals are quite frequent and warrant further investigation [...]
Two Commercially Available Blood-Stabilization Reagents Serve as Potent Inactivators of Coronaviruses
Authors: O’Connor Joseph J. , Voth Lynden , Athmer Jeremiah , George Nicholas M. , Connelly Christopher M. , Fehr Anthony R.
Published: August 2023

The continued circulation of SARS-CoV-2 and the increasing frequency of coronavirus (CoV) outbreaks over the decades demonstrates the enduring threat that the CoV family poses. There remains a significant need to develop tools to monitor and prevent the spread of these viruses. We tested blood-stabilization reagents from two commercially available blood collection tubes (BCTs) for their ability to inactivate three different coronaviruses (MHV, OC-43, and SARS-CoV-2) and stabilize their RNA. Both Cell-Free DNA BCT® (cfDNA) and Cyto-Chex® BCT (CytoChex) reagents reduced infectious virus in the buffer to below the limit of detection within 18 h of treatment, with some conditions showing this effect in as little as 3 h. CytoChex had more potent activity than cfDNA as in all cases it more rapidly reduced the actively replicating virus to the limit of detection. Despite the rapid inactivation of the virus, both reagents effectively preserved viral RNA for 7 days. Finally, both reagents accelerated viral inactivation in blood compared to the control samples. These results indicate that cfDNA and CytoChex could be used to inactivate and preserve CoV RNA for detection and further testing.
Antioxidant Effects of Quercetin Nanocrystals in Nanosuspension against Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in a Zebrafish Model
Authors: Wang Junjie , Xue Xinyue , Miao Xiaoqing
Published: August 2023

Quercetin, a flavonoid compound rich in hydroxyl groups, possesses antioxidant properties, whereas its poor water solubility limits its bioavailability. In pursuit of addressing the water solubility of quercetin and comprehending the impact of nanocrystal particle size on antioxidant efficacy, we prepared three different-sized quercetin nanocrystals, namely small (50 nm), medium (140 nm), and large (360 nm), using a nanosuspension method in this study. Within the in vitro setting, assessments employing solubility and radical scavenging assays revealed that quercetin nanocrystals displayed superior solubility (26, 21, and 13 fold corresponding to small, medium, and large particle sizes) and antioxidant performance compared to the coarse quercetin. Furthermore, quercetin nanocrystals of three particle sizes all demonstrated significant protection effects on the survival rate of H2O2-treated zebrafish at 72 h (77.78%, 73.33%, and 66.67% for small, medium, and large particle sizes, respectively), while the coarse quercetin group exhibited a low survival rate (53.3%) similar to the H2O2-treated group (47.8%). Moreover, all quercetin nanocrystals exhibited potent antioxidant capacity on both the antioxidants and enzymatic antioxidant system in H2O2-treated zebrafish to restore zebrafish to a normal state under oxidative stress. For instance, the levels of reactive oxygen species were reduced to 101.10%, 108.83%, and 109.77% of the normal levels for small, medium, and large particle-sized quercetin nanocrystals, respectively. In conclusion, quercetin nanocrystals demonstrated enhanced solubility, robust antioxidant capacity, and protective effects in zebrafish compared to coarse quercetin.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Children and Adolescents: Findings on Fluoxetine from the TDM-VIGIL Trial
Authors: Frey Michael , Smigielski Lukasz , Tini Elvira , Fekete Stefanie , Fleischhaker Christian , Wewetzer Christoph , Karwautz Andreas , Correll Christoph U. , Gerlach Manfred , Taurines Regina , Plener Paul L. , Malzahn Uwe , Kornbichler Selina , Weninger Laura , Brockhaus Matthias , Reuter-Dang Su-Yin , Reitzle Karl , Rock Hans , Imgart Hartmut , Heuschmann Peter , Unterecker Stefan , Briegel Wolfgang , Banaschewski Tobias , Fegert Jörg M. , Hellenschmidt Tobias , Kaess Michael , Kölch Michael , Renner Tobias , Rexroth Christian , Walitza Susanne , Schulte-Körne Gerd , Romanos Marcel , Egberts Karin Maria
Published: August 2023

Fluoxetine is the recommended first-line antidepressant in many therapeutic guidelines for children and adolescents. However, little is known about the relationships between drug dose and serum level as well as the therapeutic serum reference range in this age group. Within a large naturalistic observational prospective multicenter clinical trial (“TDM-VIGIL”), a transdiagnostic sample of children and adolescents (n = 138; mean age, 15; range, 7–18 years; 24.6% males) was treated with fluoxetine (10–40 mg/day). Analyses of both the last timepoint and all timepoints (n = 292 observations), utilizing (multiple) linear regressions, linear mixed-effect models, and cumulative link (mixed) models, were used to test the associations between dose, serum concentration, outcome, and potential predictors. The receiver operating curve and first to third interquartile methods, respectively, were used to examine concentration cutoff and reference values for responders. A strong positive relationship was found between dose and serum concentration of fluoxetine and its metabolite. Higher body weight was associated with lower serum concentrations, and female sex was associated with lower therapeutic response. The preliminary reference ranges for the active moiety (fluoxetine+norfluoxetine) were 208–328 ng/mL (transdiagnostically) and 201.5–306 ng/mL (depression). Most patients showed marked (45.6%) or minimal (43.5%) improvements and reported no adverse effects (64.9%). This study demonstrated a clear linear dose–serum level relationship for fluoxetine in youth, with the identified reference range being within that established for adults.
Effect of Plant Extracts Combinations on TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10 Levels in Serum of Rats Exposed to Acute and Chronic Stress
Authors: Kandilarov Ilin , Gardjeva Petya , Georgieva-Kotetarova Maria , Zlatanova Hristina , Vilmosh Natalia , Kostadinova Ivanka , Katsarova Mariana , Atliev Kiril , Dimitrova Stela
Published: August 2023

Oxydative stress, anxiety and depression are associated with changes in cytokine levels. Natural products, including individual and combined plant extracts, have the potential to be used in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The goal of this study is to investigate the effects of two combined plant extracts, rich in flavonoids, on the levels of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 in rats subjected to models of acute cold stress and chronic unpredictable stress. The study utilized common medicinal plants such as Valeriana officinalis, Melissa officinalis, Crataegus monogyna, Hypericum perforatum, and Serratula coronata, which were combined in two unique combinations—Antistress I and Antistress II. The compositions of the used extracts were determined by HPLC methods. Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in rats’ serum were measured with Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results from the acute stress model revealed that the individual extract of Crataegus monogyna decreased levels of TNF-α, while Serratula coronata, Hypericum perforatum, and Valeriana officinalis effectively reduced IL-6 levels. Both combinations, Antistress I and Antistress II, were effective in reducing TNF-α and IL-6 levels, with Antistress II also increasing IL-10 levels. In the chronic stress model, Hypericum perforatum extract decreased the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, whereas extracts of Serratula coronata and Valeriana officinalis only reduced TNF-α levels. The two combined extracts, Antistress I and Antistress II, decreased TNF-α and IL-6 levels, while Antistress I also reduced the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The combinations of plant extracts used in our experiment have not been previously studied or documented in the available literature. However, based on our own experimental results, we can draw the conclusion that the combinations exhibit a more pronounced effect in reducing cytokine levels compared to the individual plant extracts.
Actin-Depolymerizing Factor Gene Family Analysis Revealed That CsADF4 Increased the Sensitivity of Sweet Orange to Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Xu Jing , Dai Suming , Wang Xue , Gentile Alessandra , Zhang Zhuo , Xie Qingxiang , Su Yajun , Li Dazhi , Wang Bing
Published: August 2023

The actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF) gene family regulates changes in actin. However, the entire ADF family in the sweet orange Citrus sinensis has not been systematically identified, and their expressions in different organs and biotic stress have not been determined. In this study, through phylogenetic analysis of the sweet orange ADF gene family, seven CsADFs were found to be highly conserved and sparsely distributed across the four chromosomes. Analysis of the cis-regulatory elements in the promoter region showed that the CsADF gene had the potential to impact the development of sweet oranges under biotic or abiotic stress. Quantitative fluorescence analysis was then performed. Seven CsADFs were differentially expressed against the invasion of Xcc and CLas pathogens. It is worth noting that the expression of CsADF4 was significantly up-regulated at 4 days post-infection. Subcellular localization results showed that CsADF4 was localized in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Overexpression of CsADF4 enhanced the sensitivity of sweet orange leaves to Xcc. These results suggest that CsADFs may regulate the interaction of C. sinensis and bacterial pathogens, providing a way to further explore the function and mechanisms of ADF in the sweet orange.
In Vitro Conversion of Coffea spp. Somatic Embryos in SETIS™ Bioreactor System
Authors: Méndez-Hernández Hugo , Galaz-Ávalos Rosa , Quintana-Escobar Ana , Pech-Hoil Rodolfo , Collí-Rodríguez Ana , Salas-Peraza Itzamná , Loyola-Vargas Víctor
Published: August 2023

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is an excellent example of mass plant propagation. Due to its genetic variability and low somaclonal variation, coffee SE has become a model for in vitro propagation of woody species, as well as for large-scale production of vigorous plants that are advantageous to modern agriculture. The success of the large-scale propagation of an embryogenic system is dependent on the development, optimization, and transfer of complementary system technologies. In this study, two successful SE systems were combined with a SETIS™ bioreactor immersion system to develop an efficient and cost-effective approach for the in vitro development of somatic embryos of Coffea spp. This study used an efficient protocol for obtaining somatic embryos, utilizing direct and indirect SE for both C. canephora and C. arabica. Embryos in the cotyledonary stage were deposited in a bioreactor to complete their stage of development from embryo to plant with minimal manipulation. Following ten weeks of cultivation in the bioreactor, complete and vigorous plants were obtained. Different parameters such as fresh weight, length, number of leaves, and root length, as well as stomatal index and relative water content, were recorded. In addition, the survival rate and ex vitro development of plantlets during acclimatization was assessed. The best substrate combination was garden soil (GS), peat moss (PM), and agrolite (A) in a 1:1:0.5 ratio, in which the bioreactor-regenerated plants showed an acclimatization rate greater than 90%. This is the first report on the use of SETIS™ bioreactors for the in vitro development of somatic embryos in Coffea spp., providing a technology that could be utilized for the commercial in vitro propagation of coffee plants. A link between research and innovation is necessary to establish means of communication that facilitate technology transfer. This protocol can serve as a basis for the generation and scaling of different species of agroeconomic importance. However, other bottlenecks in the production chains and the field must be addressed.
Tolerant Epitypes of Elicited Holm Oak Somatic Embryos Could Be Revealed by Challenges in Dual Culture with Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands
Authors: Ruiz-Galea Mar , Kremer Carolina , Friero Eva , Hernández Inmaculada
Published: August 2023

Holm oaks (Quercus ilex L.) can suffer severe infection by the oomycete Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands; the production of more tolerant plants is, therefore, required. Embryo formation is a key period in the establishment of epigenetic memory. Somatic embryos from three holm oak genotypes were elicited, either over 3 days or 60 days, with methyl-jasmonate, salicylic acid (SA), β-aminobutyric acid (BABA), or benzothiadiazole (all at 50 μM and 100 μM), or 10% and 30% of a filtered oomycete extract (FILT10 and FILT30) to activate plant immune responses. The number of embryos produced and conversion rate under all conditions were recorded. Some elicited embryos were then exposed to P. cinnamomi in dual culture, and differential mycelial growth and the progression of necrosis were measured. The same was performed with the roots of germinated embryos. Within genotypes, significant differences were seen among the elicitation treatments in terms of both variables. Embryos and roots of 60-day BABA, SA, or FILT10 treatments inhibited mycelium growth. The 3-day BABA (either concentration) and 60-day FILT10 induced the greatest inhibition of necrosis. Mycelium and necrosis inhibition were compared with those of tolerant trees. Both inhibitions might be a defense response maintained after primed embryo germination, thus increasing the likelihood of tolerance to infection.
Environmental Filtering and Dispersal Limitations Driving the Beta Diversity Patterns at Different Scales of Secondary Evergreen Broadleaved Forests in the Suburbs of Hangzhou
Authors: Yao Liangjin , Jiang Bo , Jiao Jiejie , Wu Chuping
Published: August 2023

Subtropical suburban secondary evergreen broadleaved forests are essential in regulating the ecological environment’s quality and promoting urban sustainable development. In the suburbs of Hangzhou City, well-preserved secondary evergreen broadleaved forest communities were selected to establish a 6 ha forest dynamic monitoring plot. Community surveys and environmental factor measurements were conducted in this area. This study investigated the beta diversity patterns at different scales by considering the environmental and spatial factors to explore the driving beta diversity. Using a similar paired-site beta diversity decomposition method, the study aimed to investigate the differences in species composition and the mechanisms of multiple species coexistence within the secondary evergreen broadleaved forest communities. The results showed that the beta diversity of the suburban secondary evergreen broadleaved forest communities decreased with the increasing spatial scale. Both the dispersal limitation and the environmental filtering were found to drive the formation of beta diversity patterns in these subtropical suburban forests. At relatively smaller scales (<100 m), species turnover was found to determine the beta diversity patterns of the suburban secondary evergreen broadleaved forests. Dispersal limitation had a dominant influence at more minor scales, while the effect of environmental filtering gradually increased with scale, and the impact of the dispersal limitation decreased. The partitioning of the beta diversity in subtropical secondary evergreen broadleaved forests in China provides critical scientific insights into the spatial distribution patterns and changes in biodiversity. It offers valuable knowledge for the conservation and understanding of biodiversity maintenance in the region.
Efficacy of Biogenic Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Treating Wastewater for Sustainable Wheat Cultivation
Authors: Haidri Irfan , Shahid Muhammad , Hussain Sabir , Shahzad Tanvir , Mahmood Faisal , Hassan Muhammad Umair , Al-Khayri Jameel Mohammed , Aldaej Mohammed Ibrahim , Sattar Muhammad Naeem , Rezk Adel Abdel-Sabour , Almaghasla Mustafa Ibrahim , Shehata Wael Fathi
Published: August 2023

Water scarcity due to overuse and growing water pollution has led to the need for upgrading of conventional methods of wastewater treatment. The biological synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and their photocatalytic capacity to degrade contaminants offer a promising and environment-friendly approach to municipal wastewater treatment. This technique is advantageous due to its cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and reduction in toxic residual substances. In this study, microbial-synthesized ZnO-NPs were used for the treatment of municipal wastewater. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of treated wastewater for wheat crop cultivation. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized from a pre-isolated bacterial strain, namely Shewanela sp., and characterized using UV–VIS, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. The results showed that after the treatment of wastewater, the concentration of total dissolve solids (TDS), the chemical oxygen demand (COD), and sulfate and phosphate levels decreased by 76.5%, 57.1%, 81.1%, and 67.4%, respectively. However, the application of treated wastewater increased chlorophyll, carotenoids, and antioxidants by 45%, 40.8%, and 10.5 to 30.6%, respectively. Further, the application of treated wastewater also significantly decreased oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) by 8.1% and 30.1%, respectively. In conclusion, biosynthesized ZnO-NPs could be an important choice to treat municipal wastewater and to improve wheat productivity.
Companion Plants of Tea: From Ancient to Terrace to Forest
Authors: Wu Huan , Long Xiaofeng , Geng Yanfei
Published: August 2023

China is one of the origins of ancient tea gardens, with a long history of tea culture and tea cultivation. Guizhou Province is an important tea production place in southwest China with rich forest tea resources. The purpose of this study is to obtain historical information on companion plants in historical tea gardens and provide a theoretical basis for the sustainable development of forest tea gardens in Guizhou Province. We conducted a statistical analysis and comparison of plant species among ancient tea gardens, terrace tea gardens, and forest tea gardens from a diachronic perspective, based on 21 ancient tea literature studies, 116 terrace tea garden documents, and 18 sampled plots of forest tea gardens in Guizhou. A total of 24 companion plants species belonging to 16 families and 22 genera were found in ancient tea gardens, 81 species were found in terrace tea gardens belonging to 37 families and 74 genera, and 232 species were found in sample plots of forest tea gardens belonging to 90 families and 178 genera. Companion plants can be divided into three categories. Most of the plant families recorded in the literature also appeared in the forest tea garden we surveyed. In ancient tea gardens, terrace tea gardens, and forest tea gardens, Poaceae, Fabaceae, and Rosaceae were the most dominant families, respectively. The intercropping of tea gardens has been practiced since ancient times. Companion plants in natural forest tea gardens not only provide important insights into intercropping of terrace gardens but also hold significant implications for the conservation of existing forest tea gardens and the sustainable development of tea gardens.
First Proof-of-Principle of PolyJet 3D Printing on Textile Fabrics
Authors: Kozior Tomasz , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: August 2023

Possibilities of direct 3D printing on textile fabrics have been investigated with increasing intensity during the last decade, leading to composites which can combine the positive properties of both parts, i.e., the fast production and lateral strength of textile fabrics with the flexural strength and point-wise definable properties of 3D printed parts. These experiments, however, were mostly performed using fused deposition modeling (FDM), which is an inexpensive and broadly available technique, but which suffers from the high viscosity of the molten polymers, often impeding a form-locking connection between polymer and textile fibers. One study reported stereolithography (SLA) to be usable for direct printing on textile fabrics, but this technique suffers from the problem that the textile material is completely soaked in resin during 3D printing. Combining the advantages of FDM (material application only at defined positions) and SLA (low-viscous resin which can easily flow into a textile fabric) is possible with PolyJet modeling (PJM) printing. Here, we report the first proof-of-principle of PolyJet printing on textile fabrics. We show that PJM printing with a common resin on different textile fabrics leads to adhesion forces according to DIN 53530 in the range of 30–35 N, which is comparable with the best adhesion forces yet reported for fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing with rigid polymers on textile fabrics.
Research Progress in Boron-Modified Phenolic Resin and Its Composites
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhang Xueshu , Wang Ruidong , Zhang Yifei , Wu Juntao , Zhou Zhimao , Yin Penggang
Published: August 2023

As one of the most successful modified phenolic resins, boron-modified phenolic resin (BPF) has excellent heat resistance and ablative resistance, good mechanical and wear resistance, and flame retardancy. BPF and its composites can be widely used in areas such as aerospace, weapons and equipment, automobile brakes, and fire retardants. In this review, the current state of development of BPF and its composites is presented and discussed. After introducing various methods to synthesize BPF, functionalization of BPF is briefly summarized. Particular emphasis is placed on general methods used to fabricate BPF-based composites and the heat resistance, ablative resistance, mechanical property, wear resistance, flame retardancy, and water resistance of BPF-based composites. Finally, the challenges of this research area are summarized and its future outlook is prospected.
Molecular Modeling of Supercritical Processes and the Lattice—Gas Model
Authors: Tovbin Yuri Konstantinovich
Published: August 2023

The existing possibilities for modeling the kinetics of supercritical processes at the molecular level are considered from the point of view that the Second Law of thermodynamics must be fulfilled. The only approach that ensures the fulfillment of the Second Law of thermodynamics is the molecular theory based on the discrete–continuous lattice gas model. Expressions for the rates of the elementary stage on its basis give a self-consistent description of the equilibrium states of the mixtures under consideration. The common usage today of ideal kinetic models in SC processes in modeling industrial chemistry contradicts the non-ideal equation of states. The used molecular theory is the theory of absolute reaction rates for non-ideal reaction systems, which takes into account intermolecular interactions that change the effective activation energies of elementary stages. This allows the theory to describe the rates of elementary stages of chemical transformations and molecular transport at arbitrary temperatures and reagent densities in different phases. The application of this theory in a wide range of state parameters (pressure and temperature) is considered when calculating the rates of elementary bimolecular reactions and dissipative coefficients under supercritical conditions. Generalized dependencies are calculated within the framework of the law of the corresponding states for the coefficients of compressibility, shear viscosity, and thermal conductivity of pure substances, and for the coefficients of compressibility, self- and mutual diffusion, and shear viscosity of binary mixtures. The effect of density and temperature on the rates of elementary stages under supercritical conditions has been demonstrated for a reaction’s effective energies of activation, diffusion and share viscosity coefficients, and equilibrium constants of adsorption. Differences between models with effective parameters and the prospects for developing them by allowing for differences in size and contributions from the vibrational motions of components are described.
A Fault Warning Approach Using an Enhanced Sand Cat Swarm Optimization Algorithm and a Generalized Neural Network
Authors: Pi Youchun , Tan Yun , Golmohammadi Amir-Mohammad , Guo Yujing , Xiao Yanfeng , Chen Yan
Published: August 2023

With the continuous development and complexity of industrial systems, various types of industrial equipment and systems face increasing risks of failure during operation. Important to these systems is fault warning technology, which can timely detect anomalies before failures and take corresponding preventive measures, thereby reducing production interruptions and maintenance costs, improving production efficiency, and enhancing equipment reliability. Machine learning techniques have proven highly effective for fault detection in modern production processes. Among numerous machine learning algorithms, the generalized neural network stands out due to its simplicity, effectiveness, and applicability to various fault warning scenarios. However, the increasing complexity of systems and equipment presents significant challenges to the generalized neural network. In real-world scenarios, it suffers from drawbacks such as difficulties in determining parameters and getting trapped in local optima, which affect its ability to meet the requirements of high efficiency and accuracy. To overcome these issues, this paper proposes a fault warning method based on an enhanced sand cat swarm optimization algorithm combined with a generalized neural network. First, we develop an enhanced sand cat swarm optimization algorithm that incorporates an improved chaotic mapping initialization strategy, as well as Cauchy mutation and reverse elite strategies based on adaptive selection. Subsequently, we utilize this algorithm to optimize the generalized neural network and determine its optimal parameters, effectively improving the accuracy and reliability of system fault warnings. The proposed method is validated using actual industrial system data, specifically for generator fault warning, and is demonstrated to outperform other advanced fault warning techniques. This research provides valuable insights and promising directions for enhancing industrial fault warning capabilities.
Finite Element Modelling and Experimental Validation of the Graphite Cutting Process
Authors: Yang Dayong , Wei Furui , Wang Wei , Zhang Yuchen , Zeng Lingxin
Published: August 2023

Graphite is extensively used in the engineering field due to its unique properties, and the study of its cutting mechanism has become particularly important. However, the brittle fracture mechanism of graphite makes it rather easy for cracks with a unique pattern of initiation and growth to develop when processing. Herein, the ABAQUS was selected to establish a finite element model (FEM) of the graphite cutting process. The internal crystal structure of graphite was modelled by a Voronoi structure, and a cohesion unit was globally embedded into the solid unit to simulate crack initiation and growth. In addition, the complete process of chip formation and removal was demonstrated. The analysis of the simulation results showed that the graphite material underwent three periodic cycles of material removal during the cutting process, i.e., large, tiny, and small removal stages. Meanwhile, the simulation results indicated that when ac was large enough, the crack gradually grew inside the graphite and then turned to the upper surface of the graphite. However, when ac was tiny enough, the cracks hardly expanded towards the inside of the graphite but grew upwards for a short period. Then, orthogonal cutting experiments of graphite were conducted, and the FEM was verified based on the experimental chip morphology, machined surface morphology, and current geometric model of the graphite cutting process. The simulation and experimental results were consistent. The hereby-presented FEM was a complement to simulations of the processing of brittle materials.
A Novel Hybrid Optimization Approach for Fault Detection in Photovoltaic Arrays and Inverters Using AI and Statistical Learning Techniques: A Focus on Sustainable Environment
Authors: Abubakar Ahmad , Jibril Mahmud M. , Almeida Carlos F. M. , Gemignani Matheus , Yahya Mukhtar N. , Abba Sani I.
Published: August 2023

Fault detection in PV arrays and inverters is critical for ensuring maximum efficiency and performance. Artificial intelligence (AI) learning can be used to quickly identify issues, resulting in a sustainable environment with reduced downtime and maintenance costs. As the use of solar energy systems continues to grow, the need for reliable and efficient fault detection and diagnosis techniques becomes more critical. This paper presents a novel approach for fault detection in photovoltaic (PV) arrays and inverters, combining AI techniques. It integrates Elman neural network (ENN), boosted tree algorithms (BTA), multi-layer perceptron (MLP), and Gaussian processes regression (GPR) for enhanced accuracy and reliability in fault diagnosis. It leverages its strengths for the accuracy and reliability of fault diagnosis. Feature engineering-based sensitivity analysis was utilized for feature extraction. The fault detection and diagnosis were assessed using several statistical criteria including PBAIS, MAE, NSE, RMSE, and MAPE. Two intelligent learning scenarios are carried out. The first scenario is conducted for PV array fault detection with DC power (DCP) as output. The second scenario is conducted for inverter fault detection with AC power (ACP) as the output. The proposed technique is capable of detecting faults in PV arrays and inverters, providing a reliable solution for enhancing the performance and reliability of solar energy systems. A real-world solar energy dataset is used to evaluate the proposed technique with results compared to existing detection techniques and obtained results showing that it outperforms existing fault detection techniques, achieving higher accuracy and better performance. The GPR-M4 optimization justified its reliably among all the models with MAPE = 0.0393 and MAE = 0.002 for inverter fault detection, and MAPE = 0.091 and MAE = 0.000 for PV array fault detection.
An Amended Crow Search Algorithm for Hybrid Active Power Filter Design
Authors: Ali Shoyab , Bhargava Annapurna , Saxena Akash , Almazyad Abdulaziz S. , Sallam Karam M. , Mohamed Ali Wagdy
Published: August 2023

Hybrid Active Power Filter (HAPF) imbibes the advantages of both passive and active power filters. These filters are considered one of the important technologies for mitigating harmonic pollution in electrical systems. Accurate estimation of filter parameters is a key component to reduce harmonic pollution effectively. In recent years, several optimization approaches have been reported to solve this estimation problem; still, this area is worthy of further investigation. This paper is a proposal for an estimator that can estimate the parameter of HAPF configuration accurately. For evolving this estimator, first, an objective function that mathematically embeds filter parameters and harmonic pollution is presented. For handling the optimization process, an Amended Crow Search Algorithm (ACSA) is proposed. ACSA employs a local search algorithm (in the form of a pattern search) for obtaining optimal results. The analysis of the estimation process is carried out on two HAPF configurations. Various analyses that include harmonic pollution statistical analysis along with fitness function value analysis reveal that the proposed algorithm acquires optimal results as compared with other recently published and reported algorithms. Further, the proposed filter configurations are tested with the existing filter. The results prove that the proposed filter shows promising results.
Discrete-Element-Method-Based Determination of Particle-Level Inputs for the Continuum Theory of Flows with Moderately Cohesive Particles
Authors: Kellogg Kevin M. , Liu Peiyuan , Hrenya Christine M.
Published: August 2023

In this work, the cohesion-specific inputs for a recent continuum theory for cohesive particles are estimated for moderately cohesive particles that form larger agglomerates via discrete element method (DEM) simulations of an oscillating shear flow. In prior work, these inputs (critical velocities of agglomeration and breakage and collision cylinder diameters) were determined for lightly cohesive particles via the DEM of simple shear flow—i.e., a system dominated by singlets and doublets. Here, the DEM is again used to extract the continuum theory inputs, as experimental measurements are infeasible (i.e., collisions between particles of a diameter of <100 μm). However, simulations of simple shear flow are no longer feasible since the rate of agglomeration grows uncontrollably at higher cohesion levels. Instead, oscillating shear flow DEM simulations are used here to circumvent this issue, allowing for the continuum theory inputs of larger agglomerate sizes to be determined efficiently. The resulting inputs determined from oscillating shear flow are then used as inputs for continuum predictions of an unbounded, gas–solid riser flow. Although the theory has been previously applied to gas–solid flows of lightly cohesive particles, an extension to the theory is needed since moderately cohesive particles give rise to larger agglomerates (that still readily break). Specifically, the wider distribution of agglomerate sizes necessitates the use of polydisperse kinetic-theory-based closures for the terms in the solids momentum and granular energy balances. The corresponding continuum predictions of entrainment rate and agglomerate size distribution were compared against DEM simulations of the same system with good results. The DEM simulations were again used for validation, as it is currently extremely challenging to detect agglomerate sizes and the number of fractions in an experimental riser flow.
Numerical Analysis of Viscous Polymer Resin Mixing Processes in High-Speed Blade-Free Planetary Blender Using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics
Authors: Son Kwon Joong
Published: August 2023

High-speed planetary mixers can rapidly and efficiently combine rheological liquids, such as polymer resins and paste materials, because of the large centrifugal forces generated by the planetary motion of the mixing vessel. Only a few attempts have been made to computationally model and analyze the intricate mixing patterns of highly viscous substances. This paper presents meshless flow simulations of the planetary mixing of polymeric fluids. This research utilized the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) approach for numerical calculations. This method has advantages over the finite-volume method, which is a grid-based computational technique, when it comes to modeling interfacial and free surface flow problems. Newtonian rheology and interfacial surface force models were used to calculate the dissipative forces in the partial differential momentum equation of fluid motion. Simulations of the flow of an uncured polyurethane resin were carried out while it was mixed in a planetary mixer, under various operating conditions. Simulations using SPH were able to accurately reproduce the intricate flow and blending pattern, providing insight into mixing mechanics and mixing index evolution characteristics according to operating conditions for the planetary mixing of polymeric fluids. The simulation results showed that the spiral band, which promotes the mixing performance, is densely and distinctively formed under high-speed operation conditions.
Algorithmically Reconstructed Molecular Pathways as the New Generation of Prognostic Molecular Biomarkers in Human Solid Cancers
Authors: Zolotovskaia Marianna , Kovalenko Maks , Pugacheva Polina , Tkachev Victor , Simonov Alexander , Sorokin Maxim , Seryakov Alexander , Garazha Andrew , Gaifullin Nurshat , Sekacheva Marina , Zakharova Galina , Buzdin Anton A.
Published: August 2023

Individual gene expression and molecular pathway activation profiles were shown to be effective biomarkers in many cancers. Here, we used the human interactome model to algorithmically build 7470 molecular pathways centered around individual gene products. We assessed their associations with tumor type and survival in comparison with the previous generation of molecular pathway biomarkers (3022 “classical” pathways) and with the RNA transcripts or proteomic profiles of individual genes, for 8141 and 1117 samples, respectively. For all analytes in RNA and proteomic data, respectively, we found a total of 7441 and 7343 potential biomarker associations for gene-centric pathways, 3020 and 2950 for classical pathways, and 24,349 and 6742 for individual genes. Overall, the percentage of RNA biomarkers was statistically significantly higher for both types of pathways than for individual genes (p < 0.05). In turn, both types of pathways showed comparable performance. The percentage of cancer-type-specific biomarkers was comparable between proteomic and transcriptomic levels, but the proportion of survival biomarkers was dramatically lower for proteomic data. Thus, we conclude that pathway activation level is the advanced type of biomarker for RNA and proteomic data, and momentary algorithmic computer building of pathways is a new credible alternative to time-consuming hypothesis-driven manual pathway curation and reconstruction.
The Ritual Bridge between Narrative and Performance in the Gospel of Mark
Authors: Wheatley Paul D.
Published: August 2023

The abundance of ritual descriptions in the Gospel of Mark suggests a discourse about ritual between the narrator and early audiences of the Gospel. The prominence of the ritual of baptism at the beginning (Mark 1:9–11) and anointing at the end (16:1–8), and the recurrence of themes introduced in Jesus’s baptism at turning points in the Gospel (9:2–8; 10:38–39; 15:38–39) suggest broader ritual—and specifically baptismal—significance in the narrative. Recent changes helpfully differentiate narrative- and performance-critical interpretive approaches as text-oriented (narrative) and audience-oriented (performance), but these hermeneutical methods also work in concert. This article combines cognitive studies of narrative immersion with observations about the role of ritual in group identity formation and the impartation of religious traditions to analyze the narration of ritual acts in Mark. Giving attention to the use of internal focalization and description of bodily movements in ritual narrations, this article argues that depictions of rituals in Mark involve the audience in ways that deliver audience-oriented interpretations through text-oriented means. This analysis shows how Mark’s ritual narrations are conducive to evoking the audience’s experience of baptism, familiar to audience members as described in the undisputed Pauline epistles, the only descriptions of the rite that clearly antedate the composition of Mark. Publicly reading these narrated rituals creates an audience experience that neither requires the performance of the ritual in the context of the reading event nor an “acting out” of the ritual depicted in the narrative to create a participatory, communal experience of the text.
The Role of Internal Auditing in Improving the Accounting Information System in Jordanian Banks by Using Organizational Commitment as a Mediator
Authors: Al Zobi Mo’taz Kamel , Jarah Baker Akram Falah
Published: August 2023

In light of the function of Internal Auditing and its significance in assessing and ensuring the validity of data, information, reports, and high lists generated by the Accounting Information System and improving its credibility and dependability, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between Internal Auditing (IA) and Accounting Information System (AIS) in Jordanian banks, with a focus on the mediator role of Organizational Commitment (OC). A cross-sectional survey method was used to collect data from a sample of employees who work in banks, including those who work in the internal audit department. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 and PROCESS V4.1. The study sample includes 193 employees who work in banks, including those who work in the internal audit department. Descriptive statistical methods, such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, were employed to depict both the characteristics of the sample and the participants’ responses to the study items. The results indicate that IA has a positive relationship with AIS. Moreover, the results indicate that OC partially mediates the relationship between IA and AIS in Jordanian banks.
Landscape Ecological Risk Assessment for the Tarim River Basin on the Basis of Land-Use Change
Authors: Wang Guangyao , Ran Guangyan , Chen Yaning , Zhang Zhengyong
Published: August 2023

Land-use variation indicates the spatial differentiation of regional ecological risk. Landscape ecological risk assessment (LERA) has been used for the measurement and prediction of environmental quality. In the present study, the land-use dynamics of the Tarim River Basin from 2000 to 2020 were quantitatively analyzed using ENVI 5.6 software based on Landsat TM and ETM+ images (2000, 2010, and 2020). Moreover, the ecological risk level and its spatiotemporal differentiation features were explored using geostatistical methods based on landscape pattern indices. The results show that: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the arable land area increased the most (12,130.272 km2), and the woodland, wetland, water bodies, and building-land areas increased by 2416.541 km2, 4103.789 km2, 3331.230 km2, and 2330.860 km2, respectively. However, the bare-land area decreased the most (18,933.943 km2). (2) From 2000 to 2020, a decrease was detected in the landscape ecological risk index (LERI) of the basin, and the very low-, low-, and moderate-risk areas had the largest decrease. In addition, the area of the low- and moderate-risk areas gradually increased, while that of the high-risk areas was reduced. (3) The conversion rate of low-risk areas to very low-risk areas was the largest (5144.0907 km2/a), followed by that of high-risk areas to moderate-risk areas (4994.4765 km2/a). Therefore, the overall landscape ecological risk (LER) of the basin was reduced from 2000 to 2020, but the ecological risk of some areas, especially that of the glaciers and permanent snow-covered areas, still needs close attention.
Converged Security and Information Management System as a Tool for Smart City Infrastructure Resilience Assessment
Authors: Hromada Martin , Rehak David , Skobiej Bartosz , Bajer Martin
Published: August 2023

Current research on smart cities is primarily focused on the area of applicability of information and communication technologies. However, in the context of a multidisciplinary approach, it is also necessary to pay attention to the resilience and converged security of individual infrastructures. Converged security represents a particular security type based on a selected spectrum of certain convergent security types of, assuming the creation of a complementary whole. Considering the outputs of the analysis of security breaches manifestations, this kind of security makes it possible to detect emerging security breaches earlier (still in the symptom stage), thus providing a more efficient and targeted solution suitable for building smart city infrastructure. In its essence, the article refers to the practical application of the converged security theoretical principles presented in the publication to a functional sample, deployed and tested in practical conditions in context of selected smart city infrastructure protection and resilience. Considering the nature of the practical application, the convergence of a wider spectrum of smart security alarm systems in the resilience assessment context is defined. In the beginning, the general principles of security/safety and the need for their convergence are presented. In this context, the mathematical model called Converged Resilience Assessment (CRA) method is presented for better understanding. Subsequently, Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems are described as a technological concept that can be used for resilience assessment. The most beneficial part is the structural, process, and functional description of the Converged Security and Information Management System (CSIM) using the concept of smart security alarm systems converged security.