bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Diagnostic Modalities for Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Ghazanfar Haider , Javed Nismat , Reina Raul , Thartori Ornela , Ghazanfar Ali , Patel Harish
Published: September 2024

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a widespread global health issue with a varying prevalence influenced by geography, socioeconomic status, and demographics. In the U.S., the prevalence is lower, though certain groups, such as older adults and immigrants from high-prevalence regions, show higher rates. The decrease in infection rates in developed countries is due to improved sanitation, antibiotics, and healthcare, whereas developing countries continue to experience high rates due to poor living conditions. H. pylori infection can be asymptomatic or cause symptoms like dyspepsia, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite. Pathophysiologically, H. pylori contribute to conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer through mechanisms including urease production and the release of virulence factors, leading to chronic inflammation and an increased cancer risk. Diagnostic methods for H. pylori have progressed significantly. Non-invasive techniques, such as serological assays, stool antigen tests, and urea breath tests, are practical and sensitive. Invasive methods, including endoscopic biopsy and molecular diagnostics, are more definitive but resource intensive. Recent advancements in diagnostic technology, including matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), biosensor technology, and next-generation sequencing (NGS), promise improved speed, accuracy, and accessibility. These innovations are expected to enhance the detection and management of H. pylori, potentially reducing the global disease burden. This review aims to discuss these diagnostic modalities with a focus on further advances under investigation.
Long-Term Patency Rates of Portal Vein/Superior Mesenteric Vein Reconstruction after Pancreatic Resection for Pancreatic Tumors: Single-Center Experience
Authors: Tomas Miroslav , Dubovan Peter , Pavlendova Jana , Aziri Ramadan , Jurik Miroslav , Duchon Robert , Bernadic Michal , Novotna Nina , Dolnik Jozef , Pindak Daniel
Published: September 2024

To achieve an R0 resection margin in patients with locally advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, high-volume pancreatic centers standardly incorporate portal vein or superior mesenteric vein resection. However, there is currently no consensus on the optimal reconstructive approach. Postoperative venous thrombosis or stenosis can significantly increase patient morbidity or mortality. The objective of this study was to report the long-term patency rate of portal/superior mesenteric vein reconstruction, as well as to identify potential predictors of postoperative venous thrombosis/stenosis. A single-center retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on patients undergoing pancreatic resection due to pancreatic tumor. The patency of the vascular reconstruction was assessed by routine surveillance using computed tomographic imaging at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after surgery. A total of 297 pancreatic resections were performed with 53 patients undergoing concomitant venous resection. Among these, 26.4% (N = 14) had primary closure, 22.7% (N = 12) underwent an end-to-end anastomosis, and 50.9% (N = 27) received an interposition graft reconstruction. At the 1-year follow up, 90.2% (N = 37) of patients with venous reconstruction had a fully patent vein. The analysis did not reveal any statistically significant perioperative or postoperative factors associated with an increased risk of reconstruction thrombosis. While our study confirms a high long-term patency rate of 90.2% at 1 year, it underscores the necessity for a randomized controlled trial to determine the optimal method of venous reconstruction in pancreatic surgery.
In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Hemolytic and Cytotoxic Effects of Traditional Mexican Medicinal Plant Extracts on Human Erythrocytes and Cell Cultures
Authors: Elizondo-Luevano Joel H. , Quintanilla-Licea Ramiro , Castillo-Hernández Sandra L. , Sánchez-García Eduardo , Bautista-Villarreal Minerva , González-Meza Georgia M. , Gloria-Garza Marcela A. , Rodríguez-Luis Osvelia E. , Kluz Maciej Ireneusz , Kačániová Miroslava
Published: September 2024

Plant extracts of fifteen plants of ethnomedicinal use in Mexico were analyzed to provide scientific knowledge of their medicinal properties through the evaluation of different biological activities such as anti-hemolytic, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects in normal cells. Therefore, methanolic extracts were obtained from each of the plants by the Soxhlet extraction. The hemolytic activity in human erythrocytes was evaluated, as was their potential to protect the erythrocyte membrane against the 2,2′-azobis (2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH) and 1,1–diphenyl–2–picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. Finally, the toxicity of the extracts in normal cell cultures of African green monkey kidney cells (Vero) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction method. Most of the extracts showed low hemolytic activity and high anti-hemolytic activity as well as high selectivity indices (SI) and antioxidant effects. Extracts of H. inuloides, J. dioica, and J. spicigera induced cell proliferation of the Vero cells. K. daigremontiana, A. adstringens, S. mexicanum, J. spicigera, L. tridentata, and M. tenuiflora extracts showed PBMC cell proliferation. In the present study, it was observed that the evaluated extracts did not present hemolytic activity, and some presented low toxicity when Vero and PBMC cell cultures were exposed. In conclusion, traditionally used plants possess beneficial health properties, and it is hoped that this study will serve as a basis for understanding the biological effects of traditionally used plants and may complement future studies.
Comparative Analysis of Train Departure Strategies in a Container Shipment
Authors: Giulianetti Alessia , Gotelli Marco , Sciomachen Anna
Published: September 2024

Background: We focus on the inland rail forwarding of import containers from a marine terminal. Specifically, we present a discrete-event simulation study related to container-loading operations by train, evaluating different train departure policies within a predetermined schedule based on the capacity of the rail network. The aim is threefold: manage more containers shipped by train, improve terminal operational efficiency, and increase the rail share. Methods: The proposed procedures take full advantage of the digitization and visualization of data currently present in the terminal with the aim of improving the performance indices of interest, thereby increasing the terminal‘s operational efficiency. We evaluate the medium- and long-term impact of alternative strategies on container dwell times and the possible increase in the number of containers shipped by train. Results: The computational tests are performed with data from a terminal in the port of Genoa (Italy). The results show the relationships between train departure management policies and train departure distributions. The number of departing trains, cancelled trains, and trains departing with load percentages below 70% is studied. Average loads per train and estimated delays are also analyzed. Conclusions: It is noted that the results, which can be obtained with data from any terminal, are of great importance for optimizing operational management, offering practical solutions to improve efficiency and reduce container downtime.
A Review of Wear in Additive Manufacturing: Wear Mechanism, Materials, and Process
Authors: Jiang Xiangjun , Lu Juntao , Zhao Na , Chen Zhen , Zhao Zhiming
Published: September 2024

In fields such as industrial engineering and healthcare, additive manufacturing technology is a focal point for researchers. Wear represents a significant challenge for additive manufacturing technology, increasingly emerging as a research hotspot in recent years. This review categorizes and summarizes wear issues in additive manufacturing technology, providing a comprehensive overview of wear mechanisms, materials, and the effects of additive manufacturing processes on wear. Research indicates that different wear mechanisms result in varying wear characteristics. The inherent properties of the materials significantly influence wear during the manufacturing process. Modifying material compositions and optimizing microstructures can enhance the wear properties of additive manufacturing products. Additionally, the study of additive manufacturing technology in repair and maintenance is a current and anticipated research hotspot for the coming decades. In the research of additive manufacturing processes, the effective regulation of process parameters and their post-processing play a positive role in enhancing the wear characteristics of products produced via additive manufacturing. Lastly, the challenges and recent advancements concerning wear issues in the field of additive manufacturing technology research are summarized.
The Effects of Ceric Ammonium Nitrate in the Oxidation of 2-Benzyl-1,4-dimethoxybenzene Derivatives
Authors: Casertano Marcello , Aiello Anna , Menna Marialuisa , Imperatore Concetta
Published: September 2024

The one- or two-electron reduction in quinone compounds gives rise to semiquinones and hydroquinones, respectively, which, in turn, can be oxidized back to quinones, generating a cyclic redox system with the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). For these reasons, quinone derivatives participate in various biological processes in metabolic pathways, such as oxidative reactions and electron transport. In addition, natural quinone compounds as well as their semisynthetic and/or synthetically produced derivatives are of great pharmacological interest for the discovery and design of new drugs. As a result, their chemical reactivity as well as new methods for their synthesis are being investigated on an ongoing basis. Herein, a mild and efficient synthesis to obtain 2-(4-benzyl substituted)-1,4-dimethoxybenzene derivatives is reported. In addition, an evaluation of the effects on the quinone/diquinone ratio in the reaction product in relation to different ways of adding the oxidant CAN to the arene solution is discussed.
Optimization of Ceramic Paste Composition for 3D Printing via Robocasting
Authors: Przybyła Szymon , Kwiatkowski Maciej , Kwiatkowski Michał , Hebda Marek
Published: September 2024

This article presents a procedure for selecting optimal ceramic paste formulations dedicated to the 3D printing process using robocasting technology. This study investigated pastes with varying ceramic powder particle sizes and different proportions of additives, such as ceramic microspheres and nutshells. This selection process allowed for the classification of ceramic mixtures into those suitable and unsuitable for this additive manufacturing technique. Subsequently, the viscosity of the pastes was measured, and extrudability tests were performed to determine the force required for extrusion and evaluate the quality of the extruded material. In the final stage, the setting time of the ceramic pastes was assessed to establish the drying time of the printed elements. It was found that the length of the extruded band of ceramic paste was inversely proportional to the Al₂O₃ content. Moreover, the extrusion force for samples with varying ceramic powder particle sizes (MG1–MG5) ranged from 133 to 166 N, compared to 77 N for the base sample (BM1). The obtained results enable further development in robocasting additive technology, including the development of a rapid and effective method for validating ceramic pastes used in this process.
Ionic Liquid Crystals as Chromogenic Materials
Authors: Santos Andreia F. M. , Figueirinhas João L. , Dionísio Madalena , Godinho Maria H. , Branco Luis C.
Published: September 2024

Ionic liquid crystals (ILCs), a class of soft matter materials whose properties can be tuned by the wise pairing of the cation and anion, have recently emerged as promising candidates for different applications, combining the characteristics of ionic liquids and liquid crystals. Among those potential uses, this review aims to cover chromogenic ILCs. In this context, examples of photo-, electro- and thermochromism based on ILCs are provided. Furthermore, thermotropic and lyotropic ionic liquid crystals are also summarised, including the most common chemical and phase structures, as well as the advantages of confining these materials. This manuscript also comprises the following main experimental techniques used to characterise ILCs: Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Polarised Optical Microscopy (POM) and X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRD). Chromogenic ILCs can be interesting smart materials for energy and health purposes.
Auxeticity Tuning by Nanolayer Inclusion Ordering in Hard Sphere Crystals
Authors: Narojczyk Jakub W. , Wojciechowski Krzysztof W. , Smardzewski Jerzy , Tretiakov Konstantin V.
Published: September 2024

Designing a particular change in a system structure to achieve the desired elastic properties of materials for a given task is challenging. Recent studies of purely geometrical atomic models have shown that structural modifications on a molecular level can lead to interesting and desirable elastic properties. Still, the result of such changes is usually difficult to predict. The present work concerns the impact of nanolayer inclusion ordering in hard sphere crystals on their elastic properties, with special attention devoted to their auxetic properties. Two sets of representative models, based on cubic crystals consisting of 6×6×6 unit cells of hard spheres and containing either neighboring or separated layers of spheres of another diameter, oriented orthogonally to the [001] direction, have been studied by Monte Carlo simulations in the isothermal–isobaric (NpT) ensemble. Their elastic constants have been evaluated using the Parinello–Rahman approach. The Monte Carlo simulations showed that introducing the layer inclusions into a pure face-centered cubic (FCC) structure leads to the system’s symmetry changes from cubic symmetry to tetragonal in both cases. Essential changes in the elastic properties of the systems due to layer ordering were found both for neighboring and separated inclusions. It has been found that the choice of a set of layer inclusions allows one to tune the auxetic properties in two crystallographic directions ([110][11¯0] and [101][1¯01]). In particular, this study revealed that the change in layer ordering (from six separated layers to six neighboring ones) allows for, respectively: (i) enhancing auxeticity of the system in the [101][1¯01] direction with almost loss of auxetic properties in the [110][11¯0] direction in the case of six separated layers, while (ii) in the case of six neighboring layers, keeping the auxetic properties in both auxetic directions independently of the size of spheres constituting inclusions.
Silicon Carbide: Material Growth, Device Processing, and Applications
Authors: Vivona Marilena , Jennings Mike
Published: September 2024

The continuous demand for electronic devices operating at increasing current and power levels, as well as at high temperatures and in harsh environments, has driven research into wide-band gap (WBG) semiconductors over the last three decades [...]
Elemental Design of Alkali-Activated Materials with Solid Wastes Using Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Junfei , Shang Shenyan , Huo Zehui , Chen Junlin , Wang Yuhang
Published: September 2024

Understanding the strength development of alkali-activated materials (AAMs) with fly ash (FA) and granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) is crucial for designing high-performance AAMs. This study investigates the strength development mechanism of AAMs using machine learning. A total of 616 uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) data points from FA-GBFS-based AAM mixtures were collected from published literature to train four tree-based machine learning models. Among these models, Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR) demonstrated the highest prediction accuracy, with a correlation coefficient (R-value) of 0.970 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 4.110 MPa on the test dataset. The SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis revealed that water content is the most influential variable in strength development, followed by curing periods. The study recommends a calcium-to-silicon ratio of around 1.3, a sodium-to-aluminum ratio slightly below 1, and a silicon-to-aluminum ratio slightly above 3 for optimal AAM performance. The proposed design model was validated through laboratory experiments with FA-GBFS-based AAM mixtures, confirming the model’s reliability. This research provides novel insights into the strength development mechanism of AAMs and offers a practical guide for elemental design, potentially leading to more sustainable construction materials.
Vibrational Analysis of Composite Conical-Cylindrical Shells with Functionally Graded Coatings in Thermal Environments
Authors: Li Jinan , Yang Yao , Hou Junxue , Wang Xiangping , Zhang Haiyang , Wang Haizhou , Li Hui
Published: September 2024

This article studies the vibrational behavior of composite conical-cylindrical shells (CCSs) with functionally graded coatings (FGCs) in thermal environments using the first-order shear deformation theory. Firstly, the equivalent material parameters, fundamental frequency, and resonant displacement responses of the CCSs with FGCs are derived using the mixture principle, complex modulus method, and transfer function approach. Then, detailed thermal vibration tests are performed on CCS structures with and without coatings to assess the reliability of the proposed model, revealing that the current model accurately forecasts the thermal vibration behavior of the CCSs with FGCs. Finally, the effect of key parameters on the vibrational properties of the CCSs with FGCs is investigated. The results demonstrate that increasing the functionally graded index, coating thickness, and Young’s modulus ratio can greatly enhance the vibration suppression capability of the structure.
Experimental Investigation of the Impact of Loading Conditions on the Change in Thin NiTi Wire Resistance during Cyclic Stretching
Authors: Hartwich Jonasz , Duda Sławomir , Sławski Sebastian , Kciuk Marek , Woźniak Anna , Gembalczyk Grzegorz
Published: September 2024

This paper presents the results of an experimental study designed to evaluate the effect of repeated stretching cycles on the electrical resistance change in a NiTi alloy wire. In particular, tests were carried out to determine the effect of the type of loading on resistance change in the investigated wires. Wires with a diameter of 100 μm were used in the research. The experiment was carried out on a dedicated test stand designed for this purpose. During the test, the samples were subjected to 40 identical tensile cycles. The electrical resistance, sample elongation, and tensile force during successive stretching cycles were measured. The conducted research demonstrated the impact of elongation and reorientation of the structure on the resistance change in NiTi alloy thin wires. The research included a comparison of the effect of two different types of loading on the electrical resistance change in the sample. During cyclic stretching of a NiTi alloy sample with constant displacement, a decrease in electrical resistance was observed after each successive stretching cycle. Alternatively, when stretching with a constant force, the value of electrical resistance increased. In both types of loads, the greatest change in resistance value was observed at the initial cycles.
Stochastic Differential Games and a Unified Forward–Backward Coupled Stochastic Partial Differential Equation with Lévy Jumps
Authors: Dai Wanyang
Published: September 2024

We establish a relationship between stochastic differential games (SDGs) and a unified forward–backward coupled stochastic partial differential equation (SPDE) with discontinuous Lévy Jumps. The SDGs have q players and are driven by a general-dimensional vector Lévy process. By establishing a vector-form Ito-Ventzell formula and a 4-tuple vector-field solution to the unified SPDE, we obtain a Pareto optimal Nash equilibrium policy process or a saddle point policy process to the SDG in a non-zero-sum or zero-sum sense. The unified SPDE is in both a general-dimensional vector form and forward–backward coupling manner. The partial differential operators in its drift, diffusion, and jump coefficients are in time-variable and position parameters over a domain. Since the unified SPDE is of general nonlinearity and a general high order, we extend our recent study from the existing Brownian motion (BM)-driven backward case to a general Lévy-driven forward–backward coupled case. In doing so, we construct a new topological space to support the proof of the existence and uniqueness of an adapted solution of the unified SPDE, which is in a 4-tuple strong sense. The construction of the topological space is through constructing a set of topological spaces associated with a set of exponents {γ1,γ2,…} under a set of general localized conditions, which is significantly different from the construction of the single exponent case. Furthermore, due to the coupling from the forward SPDE and the involvement of the discontinuous Lévy jumps, our study is also significantly different from the BM-driven backward case. The coupling between forward and backward SPDEs essentially corresponds to the interaction between noise encoding and noise decoding in the current hot diffusion transformer model for generative AI.
Nonlinear Perception Characteristics Analysis of Ocean White Noise Based on Deep Learning Algorithms
Authors: Qian Tao , Li Ying , Chen Jun
Published: September 2024

Caused by nonlinear vibration, ocean white noise exhibits complex dynamic characteristics and nonlinear perception characteristics. To explore the potential application of ocean white noise in engineering and health fields, novel methods based on deep learning algorithms are proposed to generate ocean white noise, contributing to marine environment simulation in ocean engineering. A comparative study, including spectrum analysis and auditory testing, proved the superiority of the generation method using deep learning networks over general mathematical or physical methods. To further study the nonlinear perception characteristics of ocean white noise, novel experimental research based on multi-modal perception research methods was carried out within a constructed multi-modal perception system environment, including the following two experiments. The first audiovisual comparative experiment thoroughly explores the system’s user multi-modal perception experience and influence factors, explicitly focusing on the impact of ocean white noise on human perception. The second sound intensity testing experiment is conducted to further explore human multi-sensory interaction and change patterns under white noise stimulation. The experimental results indicate that user visual perception ability and state reach a relatively high level when the sound intensity is close to 50 dB. Further numerical analysis based on the experimental results reveals the internal influence relationship between user perception of multiple senses, showing a fluctuating influence law to user visual concentration and a curvilinear influence law to user visual psychology from the sound intensity of ocean white noise. This study underscores ocean white noise’s positive effect on human perception enhancement and concentration improvement, providing a research basis for multiple field applications such as spiritual healing, perceptual learning, and artistic creation for human beings. Importantly, it provides valuable references and practical insights for professionals in related fields, contributing to the development and utilization of the marine environment.
Case-Based Deduction for Entailment Tree Generation
Authors: Shi Jihao , Ding Xiao , Liu Ting
Published: September 2024

Maintaining logical consistency in structured explanations is critical for understanding and troubleshooting the reasoning behind a system’s decisions. However, existing methods for entailment tree generation often struggle with logical consistency, resulting in erroneous intermediate conclusions and reducing the overall accuracy of the explanations. To address this issue, we propose case-based deduction (CBD), a novel approach that retrieves cases with similar logical structures from a case base and uses them as demonstrations for logical deduction. This method guides the model toward logically sound conclusions without the need for manually constructing logical rule bases. By leveraging a prototypical network for case retrieval and reranking them using information entropy, CBD introduces diversity to improve in-context learning. Our experimental results on the EntailmentBank dataset show that CBD significantly improves entailment tree generation, achieving performance improvements of 1.7% in Task 1, 0.6% in Task 2, and 0.8% in Task 3 under the strictest Overall AllCorrect metric. These findings confirm that CBD enhances the logical consistency and overall accuracy of AI systems in structured explanation tasks.
A Study on Linguistic Z-Graph and Its Application in Social Networks
Authors: Mahapatra Rupkumar , Samanta Sovan , Pal Madhumangal , Allahviranloo Tofigh , Kalampakas Antonios
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study of the linguistic Z-graph, which is a novel framework designed to analyze linguistic structures within social networks. By integrating concepts from graph theory and linguistics, the linguistic Z-graph provides a detailed understanding of language dynamics in online communities. This study highlights the practical applications of linguistic Z-graphs in identifying central nodes within social networks, which are crucial for online businesses in market capture and information dissemination. Traditional methods for identifying central nodes rely on direct connections, but social network connections often exhibit uncertainty. This paper focuses on using fuzzy theory, particularly linguistic Z-graphs, to address this uncertainty, offering more detailed insights compared to fuzzy graphs. Our study introduces a new centrality measure using linguistic Z-graphs, enhancing our understanding of social network structures.
Novel Classes on Generating Functions of the Products of (p,q)-Modified Pell Numbers with Several Bivariate Polynomials
Authors: Boussayoud Ali , Boulaaras Salah , Allahem Ali
Published: September 2024

In this paper, using the symmetrizing operator δe1e22−l, we derive new generating functions of the products of p,q-modified Pell numbers with various bivariate polynomials, including Mersenne and Mersenne Lucas polynomials, Fibonacci and Lucas polynomials, bivariate Pell and bivariate Pell Lucas polynomials, bivariate Jacobsthal and bivariate Jacobsthal Lucas polynomials, bivariate Vieta–Fibonacci and bivariate Vieta–Lucas polynomials, and bivariate complex Fibonacci and bivariate complex Lucas polynomials.
Modified Cox Models: A Simulation Study on Different Survival Distributions, Censoring Rates, and Sample Sizes
Authors: Maharela Iketle Aretha , Fletcher Lizelle , Chen Ding-Geng
Published: September 2024

The classical Cox model is the most popular procedure for studying right-censored data in survival analysis. However, it is based on the fundamental assumption of proportional hazards (PH). Modified Cox models, stratified and extended, have been widely employed as solutions when the PH assumption is violated. Nevertheless, prior comparisons of the modified Cox models did not employ comprehensive Monte-Carlo simulations to carry out a comparative analysis between the two models. In this paper, we conducted extensive Monte-Carlo simulation to compare the performance of the stratified and extended Cox models under varying censoring rates, sample sizes, and survival distributions. Our results suggest that the models’ performance at varying censoring rates and sample sizes is robust to the distribution of survival times. Thus, their performance under Weibull survival times was comparable to that of exponential survival times. Furthermore, we found that the extended Cox model outperformed other models under every combination of censoring, sample size and survival distribution.
On the Solutions of Linear Systems over Additively Idempotent Semirings
Authors: Otero Sánchez Álvaro , Camazón Portela Daniel , López-Ramos Juan Antonio
Published: September 2024

The aim of this article is to solve the system XA=Y, where A=(ai,j)∈Mn×m(S), Y∈Sm and X is an unknown vector of a size n, with S being an additively idempotent semiring. If the system has solutions, then we completely characterize its maximal one, and in the particular case where S is a generalized tropical semiring, a complete characterization of its solutions is provided as well as an explicit bound of the computational cost associated with its computation. Finally, we show how to apply this method to cryptanalyze two different key exchange protocols defined for a finite case and the tropical semiring, respectively.
A New Instance Segmentation Model for High-Resolution Remote Sensing Images Based on Edge Processing
Authors: Zhang Xiaoying , Shen Jie , Hu Huaijin , Yang Houqun
Published: September 2024

With the goal of addressing the challenges of small, densely packed targets in remote sensing images, we propose a high-resolution instance segmentation model named QuadTransPointRend Net (QTPR-Net). This model significantly enhances instance segmentation performance in remote sensing images. The model consists of two main modules: preliminary edge feature extraction (PEFE) and edge point feature refinement (EPFR). We also created a specific approach and strategy named TransQTA for edge uncertainty point selection and feature processing in high-resolution remote sensing images. Multi-scale feature fusion and transformer technologies are used in QTPR-Net to refine rough masks and fine-grained features for selected edge uncertainty points while balancing model size and accuracy. Based on experiments performed on three public datasets: NWPU VHR-10, SSDD, and iSAID, we demonstrate the superiority of QTPR-Net over existing approaches.
A Corruption Impunity Model Considering Anticorruption Policies
Authors: Delgadillo-Alemán Sandra E. , Kú-Carrillo Roberto A. , Torres-Nájera Alejandra
Published: September 2024

Corruption is a global problem that affects the fair distribution of wealth of every country to different degrees and represents a problem to be solved to prevent the diversion and waste of resources. Among the different efforts to first measure it and later reduce it by proposing strategies, there exist a variety of indices, such as the corruption perception index, and other related issues, such as the global impunity index, the laxness of anticorruption policies, etc., which are computed for different countries worldwide. Based on these indices, we propose a model for corruption using a system of ordinary differential equations, considering anticorruption policies. Those three factors were identified after analyzing the phenomenon and available data, particularly for Mexico. Also, we fit it to the reported data of this country and perform simulations expecting to predict the short term, and performed a sensitivity analysis. The model is capable of reproducing the observed oscillatory behavior of the phenomenon. The model fit can still be improved by including the data for the anticorruption policies, which were only studied for different scenarios. Moreover, the model is susceptible to application in other countries, as long as data are available, and then provides a computational tool to predict and visualize the effect of appropriate public policies to fight corruption.
Design and Implementation of a Discrete-PDC Controller for Stabilization of an Inverted Pendulum on a Self-Balancing Car Using a Convex Approach
Authors: González-Cárdenas Yasmani , López-Estrada Francisco-Ronay , Estrada-Manzo Víctor , Dominguez-Zenteno Joaquin , López-Pérez Manuel
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a trajectory-tracking controller of an inverted pendulum system on a self-balancing differential drive platform. First, the system modeling is described by considering approximations of the swing angles. Subsequently, a discrete convex representation of the system via the nonlinear sector technique is obtained, which considers the nonlinearities associated with the nonholonomic constraint. The design of a discrete parallel distributed compensation controller is achieved through an alternative method due to the presence of uncontrollable points that avoid finding a solution for the entire polytope. Finally, simulations and experimental results using a prototype illustrate the effectiveness of the proposal.
Insights into the Two Most Common Cancers of Primitive Gut-Derived Structures and Their Microbial Connections
Authors: Ray Amitabha , Moore Thomas F. , Naik Dayalu S. L. , Borsch Daniel M.
Published: September 2024

The gastrointestinal and respiratory systems are closely linked in different ways, including from the embryological, anatomical, cellular, and physiological angles. The highest number (and various types) of microorganisms live in the large intestine/colon, and constitute the normal microbiota in healthy people. Adverse alterations of the microbiota or dysbiosis can lead to chronic inflammation. If this detrimental condition persists, a sequence of pathological events can occur, such as inflammatory bowel disease, dysplasia or premalignant changes, and finally, cancer. One of the most commonly identified bacteria in both inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer is Escherichia coli. On the other hand, patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at risk of several other diseases—both intestinal (such as malnutrition and intestinal obstruction, besides cancer) and extraintestinal (such as arthritis, bronchiectasis, and cancer risk). Cancers of the lung and colon are the two most common malignancies occurring worldwide (except for female breast cancer). Like the bacterial role in colon cancer, many studies have shown a link between chronic Chlamydia pneumoniae infection and lung cancer. However, in colon cancer, genotoxic colibactin-producing E. coli belonging to the B2 phylogroup may promote tumorigenesis. Furthermore, E. coli is believed to play an important role in the dissemination of cancer cells from the primary colonic site. Currently, seven enteric pathogenic E. coli subtypes have been described. Conversely, three Chlamydiae can cause infections in humans (C. trachomatis may increase the risk of cervical and ovarian cancers). Nonetheless, striking genomic plasticity and genetic modifications allow E. coli to constantly adjust to the surrounding environment. Consequently, E. coli becomes resistant to antibiotics and difficult to manage. To solve this problem, scientists are thinking of utilizing suitable lytic bacteriophages (viruses that infect and kill bacteria). Several bacteriophages of E. coli and Chlamydia species are being evaluated for this purpose.
Research on Pre-Compensation and Shape-Control Optimization of Hemming Structures with Dissimilar Materials Based on Forming Process Chain
Authors: Li Jianjun , Sun Qin , Jia Jia , Zhu Wenfeng
Published: September 2024

The steel–aluminum hybrid body closure panels can achieve a more balanced and lightweight performance. However, the differences in the physical properties of metal sheets and the complex changes in the properties of the adhesive material result in cumulative deviations in the composite-forming process. This paper proposes a deformation pre-compensation modeling method for the autobody closure panels hemming system oriented towards the process chain, in response to the problem that single-process optimization cannot obtain global optimal results. Taking the car door scaled model as an example, based on surface reconstruction and node compensation, the curing deformation amount is fed back in advance to the gluing and hemming processes. The deformation deviation is corrected through geometric parameter pre-compensation to achieve overall process shape control and optimization. Research shows that this method can significantly reduce the surface differences and gaps of hemming structures with dissimilar materials, and a single iteration can reduce the assembly surface difference by more than 90%. This provides a reference for improving the manufacturing quality of steel–aluminum hybrid body closure panels.
Improvement of High Temperature Wear Resistance of Laser-Cladding High-Entropy Alloy Coatings: A Review
Authors: Han Yantao , Fu Hanguang
Published: September 2024

As a novel type of metal material emerging in recent years, high-entropy alloy boasts properties such as a simplified microstructure, high strength, high hardness and wear resistance. High-entropy alloys can use laser cladding to produce coatings that exhibit excellent metallurgical bonding with the substrate, thereby significantly improvement of the wear resistance of the material surface. In this paper, the research progress on improving the high-temperature wear resistance of high entropy alloy coatings (LC-HEACs) was mainly analyzed based on the effect of some added alloying elements and the presence of hard ceramic phases. Building on this foundation, the study primarily examines the impact of adding elements such as aluminum, titanium, copper, silicon, and molybdenum, along with hard ceramic particles like TiC, WC, and NbC, on the phase structure of coatings, high-temperature mechanisms, and the synergistic interactions between these elements. Additionally, it explores the potential of promising lubricating particles and introduces an innovative, highly efficient additive manufacturing technology known as extreme high-speed laser metal deposition (EHLMD). Finally, this paper summarizes the main difficulties involved in increasing the high-temperature wear resistance of LC-HEACs and some problems worthy of attention in the future development.
New Method to Recover Activation Energy: Application to Copper Oxidation
Authors: Barchiesi Dominique , Grosges Thomas
Published: September 2024

The calculation of the activation energy helps to understand and to identify the underlying phenomenon of oxidation. We propose a new method without any a priori hypothesis on the oxidation law, to retrieve the activation energy of partially and totally oxidized samples subject to successive annealing. The method handles the uncertainties on the measurement of metal and oxide thicknesses, at the beginning and at the end of the annealing process. The possible change in oxidation law during annealing is included in the model. By using an adapted Particle Swarm Optimization method to solve the inverse problem, we also calculate the time of final oxidation during the last annealing. We apply the method to successive annealings of three samples with initial nanometric layers of copper, at ambient pressure, in the open air. One, two and three successive laws are recovered from experimental data. We found activation energy values about 105–108 kJ mol−1 at the beginning of the oxidation, 76–87 kJ mol−1 at the second step, and finally 47–59 kJ mol−1 in a third step. We also show that the time evolution of copper and oxide thicknesses can also be retrieved with their uncertainties.
Research on Process Characteristics and Properties in Deep-Penetration Variable-Polarity Tungsten Inert Gas Welding of AA7075 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Peng Zheng , Liang Ying , Liu Hongbing , Wang Fei , Yang Jin , Song Yanbo
Published: September 2024

In this study, a new deep-penetration variable-polarity tungsten inert gas (DP-VPTIG) welding process, which is performed by a triple-frequency-modulated pulse, was employed in the welding fabrication of 8 mm AA7075 aluminum plates. The electric signal, arc shape, and weld pool morphology of the welding process were obtained by means of high-speed photography and an electric signal acquisition system under varying parameters of the intermediate frequency (IF) pulse current. The principle of the arc characteristics and the dynamic mechanism of the weld melting during the process are explained. In addition, the macroforming, microstructure, and microhardness of the welded joints were investigated. The results indicate that, with an intermediate frequency pulse of 750 Hz, the arc displayed a higher energy density and a more effective arc contraction, which improved weld appearance and penetration. Moreover, the impact and stirring action of the arc refined the microstructure grains of the weld center. Therefore, this new welding method is feasible for welding medium-thickness aluminum alloy plates without a groove.
Impact of Microplastic Exposure on Blood Glucose Levels and Gut Microbiota: Differential Effects under Normal or High-Fat Diet Conditions
Authors: Xu Manjin , Niu Huixia , Wu Lizhi , Xing Mingluan , Mo Zhe , Chen Zhijian , Li Xueqing , Lou Xiaoming
Published: September 2024

Microplastics are emerging pollutants that have garnered significant attention, with evidence suggesting their association with the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. In order to assess the impact of polystyrene microplastic exposure on alterations in the gut microbiota and the subsequent implications for glucose dysregulation under different dietary conditions in mice, we investigated the effects and disparities in the blood glucose levels induced by polystyrene microplastic exposure in mice fed a high-fat diet versus those fed a normal diet. Using 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analyses, we explored the dynamic changes and discrepancies in the gut microbiota stability induced by polystyrene microplastic exposure under varied dietary conditions, and we screened for gut genera associated with the potential of polystyrene microplastics to disrupt glucose homeostasis. Our findings indicate that a high-fat diet resulted in abnormal mouse body weight, energy intake, blood glucose levels and related metabolic parameters. Additionally, polystyrene microplastic exposure exacerbated the glucose metabolism disorders induced by a high-fat diet. Furthermore, the composition and diversity of the mouse gut microbiota were significantly altered following microplastic exposure, with 11 gut genera exhibiting a differential presence between mice fed a high-fat diet combined with microplastic exposure compared to those fed a normal diet with microplastic exposure. Moreover, Ucg-009 played an intermediary role in the association between a high-fat diet and the fasting blood glucose. Hence, our study demonstrates that polystyrene microplastic exposure exacerbates high-fat diet-induced glucose metabolism disorders, whereas its impact on the blood glucose under normal dietary conditions is not significant, highlighting the differential influence attributable to distinct alterations in characteristic gut genera.
Urinary Biomarkers of Strawberry and Blueberry Intake
Authors: Gao Ya , Finlay Rebecca , Yin Xiaofei , Brennan Lorraine
Published: September 2024

Introduction There is increasing interest in food biomarkers to address the shortcomings of self-reported dietary assessments. Berries are regarded as important fruits worldwide; however, there are no well-validated biomarkers of berry intake. Thus, the objective of this study is to identify urinary biomarkers of berry intake. Methods For the discovery study, participants consumed 192 g strawberries with 150 g blueberries, and urine samples were collected at 2, 4, 6, and 24 h post-consumption. A dose–response study was performed, whereby participants consumed three portions (78 g, 278 g, and 428 g) of mixed strawberries and blueberries. The urine samples were profiled by an untargeted LC-MS metabolomics approach in the positive and negative modes. Results Statistical analysis of the data revealed that 39 features in the negative mode and 15 in the positive mode significantly increased between fasting and 4 h following mixed berry intake. Following the analysis of the dose–response data, 21 biomarkers showed overall significance across the portions of berry intake. Identification of the biomarkers was performed using fragmentation matches in the METLIN, HMDB, and MoNA databases and in published papers, confirmed where possible with authentic standards. Conclusions The ability of the panel of biomarkers to assess intake was examined, and the predictability was good, laying the foundations for the development of biomarker panels.
Biohydrogen Produced via Dark Fermentation: A Review
Authors: Albuquerque Marcela Moreira , Sartor Gabriela de Bona , Martinez-Burgos Walter Jose , Scapini Thamarys , Edwiges Thiago , Soccol Carlos Ricardo , Medeiros Adriane Bianchi Pedroni
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen (H2) is a highly efficient and clean energy source with the potential for renewable energy. The production of H2 from biological routes such as biophotolysis, photofermentation, dark fermentation, and bioelectrochemical production is characterized as a renewable alternative to current production, which is mainly based on energy-intensive electrochemical and thermochemical processes and responsible for the emission of high amounts of environmentally harmful compounds. Dark fermentation is the most efficient and cost-effective method for producing biohydrogen, making it a key research focus. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the dark fermentation process with the aim of enhancing hydrogen productivity and yields. Aspects related to the main substrates used, the inoculum sources and their pretreatment, and physical-chemical parameters of the process are covered. Furthermore, this manuscript addresses topics such as process integration, genetic and metabolic engineering of fermentative microorganisms, and the main types of bioreactors aimed at greater yields and productivity of biohydrogen to enable its production through dark fermentation on a larger scale.
Adenovirus-Mediated Expression of Dengue Virus 2 Envelope Ferritin Nanoparticles Induced Virus-Specific Immune Responses in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Tennakoon M. Nipuna Sudaraka , Ryu Ji-Hoon , Jung Yong-Sam , Qian Yingjuan , Shin Hyun-Jin
Published: September 2024

This study provides a preliminary background for the development of a viral vector vaccine for the dengue virus using genetic material encoded by dengue envelope ferritin nanoparticles. Adenoviruses were generated for the recombinant envelope of dengue virus 2 (DENV2) and the envelope human ferritin heavy chain using a two-vector adenovirus system. The primary immunostimulatory activity of the two viruses was analyzed in mice to determine the effect of envelope ferritin nanoparticles. Transfection of a shuttle vector delivered the target gene and packaging vector carrying the packaging signal, and recombinant adenoviruses (rAds) were generated and purified using an ultracentrifugation method. Transduction efficiencies of the generated adenoviruses were confirmed in A549 cells. Purified adenoviruses (8 × 106 PFU/mL) were immunized intramuscularly into 6 weeks old BALB/c mice. Subsequently, the DENV2-specific IgG titer was evaluated 1 and 4 weeks after immunization. Envelope ferritin-immunized mice showed a significant IgG response compared to envelope-only immunized mice at 1 and 4 weeks after immunization, revealing the persistence of the dengue virus-specific IgG response. This method demonstrated the capability of the viral vector vaccine to be used as a carrier for ferritin nanoparticles, instead of direct immunization with ferritin nanoparticles.