bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Self-Adaptive Path-Planning Method for Unmanned Ground Vehicle Based on Transformer Encoder Feature Extraction and Incremental Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Zhang Tao , Fan Jie , Zhou Nana , Gao Zepeng
Published: April 2024

Path planning is an indispensable component in guiding unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) from their initial positions to designated destinations, aiming to determine trajectories that are either optimal or near-optimal. While conventional path-planning techniques have been employed for this purpose, planners utilizing reinforcement learning (RL) exhibit superior adaptability within exceedingly complex and dynamic environments. Nevertheless, existing RL-based path planners encounter several shortcomings, notably, redundant map representations, inadequate feature extraction, and limited adaptiveness across diverse environments. In response to these challenges, this paper proposes an innovative and highly self-adaptive path-planning approach based on Transformer encoder feature extraction coupled with incremental reinforcement learning (IRL). Initially, an autoencoder is utilized to compress redundant map representations, providing the planner with sufficient environmental data while minimizing dimensional complexity. Subsequently, the Transformer encoder, renowned for its capacity to analyze global long-range dependencies, is employed to capture intricate correlations among UGV statuses at continuous intervals. Finally, IRL is harnessed to enhance the path planner’s generalization capabilities, particularly when the trained agent is deployed in environments distinct from its training counterparts. Our empirical findings demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms traditional uniform-sampling-based approaches in terms of execution time, path length, and trajectory smoothness. Furthermore, it exhibits a fivefold increase in adaptivity compared to conventional transfer-learning-based fine-tuning methodologies.
Preparation of Magnetic Nano-Catalyst Containing Schiff Base Unit and Its Application in the Chemical Fixation of CO2 into Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Kang Na , Fan Yindi , Li Dan , Jia Xiaoli , Zhao Sanhu
Published: April 2024

The development of a catalyst for the conversion of CO2 and epoxides to the corresponding cyclic carbonates is still a very attractive topic. Magnetic nano-catalysts are widely used in various organic reactions due to their magnetic separation and recycling properties. Here, a magnetic nano-catalyst containing a Schiff base unit was designed, synthesized and used as a heterogeneous catalyst to catalyze CO2 and epoxides to form cyclic carbonates without solvents and co-catalysts. The catalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric (TG), VSM, SEM, TEM and BET. The results show that the magnetic nano-catalyst containing the Schiff base unit has a high activity in the solvent-free cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with epoxide under mild conditions, and is easily separated from the reaction mixture driven by external magnetic force. The recovered catalyst maintains a high performance after five cycles.
Monitoring the Wear Trends in Wind Turbines by Tracking Fourier Vibration Spectra and Density Based Support Vector Machines
Authors: Bisu Claudiu , Olaru Adrian , Olaru Serban , Alexei Adrian , Mihai Niculae , Ushaq Haleema
Published: April 2024

To make wind power more competitive, it is necessary to reduce turbine downtime and reduce costs associated with wind turbine operation and maintenance (O&M). Incorporating machine learning in the development of condition-based predictive maintenance methodologies for wind turbines can enhance their efficiency and reliability. This paper presents a monitoring method that utilizes Density Based Support Vector Machines (DBSVM) and the evolutionary Fourier spectra of vibrations. This method allows for the smart monitoring of the function evolution of the turbine. A complex optimal function (FO) for 5-degree order has been developed that will be the boundary function of the DBSVM to be timely determined from the Fourier spectrum through the magnitude–frequency and place of the failure occurring in the wind turbine drivetrains. The trend of the failure was constructed with the maximal values of the optimal frequency function for both yesthe cases of the upwind and downwind parts of the gearbox.
Semi-Analytical Closed-Form Solutions for Dynamical Rössler-Type System
Authors: Ene Remus-Daniel , Pop Nicolina
Published: April 2024

Mathematical models and numerical simulations are necessary to understand the functions of biological rhythms, to comprehend the transition from simple to complex behavior and to delineate the conditions under which they arise. The aim of this work is to investigate the Ro¨ssler-type system. This system could be proposed as a theoretical model for biological rhythms, generalizing this formula for chaotic behavior. It is assumed that the Ro¨ssler-type system has a Hamilton–Poisson realization. To semi-analytically solve this system, a Bratu-type equation was explored. The approximate closed-form solutions are obtained using the Optimal Parametric Iteration Method (OPIM) using only one iteration. The advantages of this analytical procedure are reflected through a comparison between the analytical and corresponding numerical results. The obtained results are in a good agreement with the numerical results, and they highlight that our procedure is effective, accurate and usefully for implementation in applicationssuch as an oscillator with cubic and harmonic restoring forces, the Thomas–Fermi equation and the Lotka–Voltera model with three species.
Robust Bias Compensation Method for Sparse Normalized Quasi-Newton Least-Mean with Variable Mixing-Norm Adaptive Filtering
Authors: Chien Ying-Ren , Hsieh Han-En , Qian Guobing
Published: April 2024

Input noise causes inescapable bias to the weight vectors of the adaptive filters during the adaptation processes. Moreover, the impulse noise at the output of the unknown systems can prevent bias compensation from converging. This paper presents a robust bias compensation method for a sparse normalized quasi-Newton least-mean (BC-SNQNLM) adaptive filtering algorithm to address these issues. We have mathematically derived the biased-compensation terms in an impulse noisy environment. Inspired by the convex combination of adaptive filters’ step sizes, we propose a novel variable mixing-norm method, BC-SNQNLM-VMN, to accelerate the convergence of our BC-SNQNLM algorithm. Simulation results confirm that the proposed method significantly outperforms other comparative works regarding normalized mean-squared deviation (NMSD) in the steady state.
Deep Learning Based Fall Recognition and Forecasting for Reconfigurable Stair-Accessing Service Robots
Authors: Ong Jun Hua , Hayat Abdullah Aamir , Gomez Braulio Felix , Elara Mohan Rajesh , Wood Kristin Lee
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study on fall recognition and forecasting for reconfigurable stair-accessing robots by leveraging deep learning techniques. The proposed framework integrates machine learning algorithms and recurrent neural networks (RNNs), specifically Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM), for fall detection of service robots on staircases. The reconfigurable stair-accessing robot sTetro serves as the platform, and the fall data required for training models are generated in a simulation environment. The two machine learning algorithms are compared and their effectiveness on the fall recognition task is reported. The results indicate that the BiLSTM model effectively classifies falls with a median categorical accuracy of 94.10% in simulation and 90.02% with limited experiments. Additionally, the BiLSTM model can be used for forecasting, which is practically valuable for making decisions well before the onset of a free fall. This study contributes insights into the design and implementation of fall detection systems for service robots used to navigate staircases through deep learning approaches. Our experimental and simulation data, along with the simulation steps, are available for reference and analysis via the shared link.
Enhancing Surveillance Vision with Multi-Layer Deep Learning Representation
Authors: Son Dong-Min , Lee Sung-Hak
Published: April 2024

This paper aimed to develop a method for generating sand–dust removal and dehazed images utilizing CycleGAN, facilitating object identification on roads under adverse weather conditions such as heavy dust or haze, which severely impair visibility. Initially, the study addressed the scarcity of paired image sets for training by employing unpaired CycleGAN training. The CycleGAN training module incorporates hierarchical single-scale Retinex (SSR) images with varying sigma sizes, facilitating multiple-scaled trainings. Refining the training data into detailed hierarchical layers for virtual paired training enhances the performance of CycleGAN training. Conventional sand–dust removal or dehazing algorithms, alongside deep learning methods, encounter challenges in simultaneously addressing sand–dust removal and dehazing with a singular algorithm. Such algorithms often necessitate resetting hyperparameters to process images from both scenarios. To overcome this limitation, we proposed a unified approach for removing sand–dust and haze phenomena using a single model, leveraging images processed hierarchically with SSR. The image quality and image sharpness metrics of the proposed method were BRIQUE, PIQE, CEIQ, MCMA, LPC-SI, and S3. In sand–dust environments, the proposed method achieved the highest scores, with an average of 21.52 in BRISQUE, 0.724 in MCMA, and 0.968 in LPC-SI compared to conventional methods. For haze images, the proposed method outperformed conventional methods with an average of 3.458 in CEIQ, 0.967 in LPC-SI, and 0.243 in S3. The images generated via this proposed method demonstrated superior performance in image quality and sharpness evaluation compared to conventional algorithms. The outcomes of this study hold particular relevance for camera images utilized in automobiles, especially in the context of self-driving cars or CCTV surveillance systems.
A Privacy Protection Scheme of Certificateless Aggregate Ring Signcryption Based on SM2 Algorithm in Smart Grid
Authors: Song Hongna , Liu Zhentao , Wang Teng , Zhao Ling , Guo Haonan , Liu Shuanggen
Published: April 2024

With the rapid increase in smart grid users and the increasing cost of user data transmission, proposing an encryption method that does not increase the construction cost while increasing the user ceiling has become the focus of many scholars. At the same time, the increase in users will also lead to more security problems, and it is also necessary to solve the privacy protection for users during information transmission. In order to solve the above problems, this paper proposes an aggregated ring encryption scheme based on the SM2 algorithm with special features, referred to as SM2-CLARSC, based on the certificateless ring signcryption mechanism and combining with the aggregate signcryption. SM2-CLARSC is designed to satisfy the basic needs of the smart grid, and it can be resistant to replay attacks, forward security and backward security, etc. It has better security and higher efficiency than existing solutions. Comparing SM2-CLARSC with existing typical solutions through simulation, the result proves that this solution has more comprehensive functions, higher security, and significant computational efficiency improvement.
Efficient Large-Scale IoT Botnet Detection through GraphSAINT-Based Subgraph Sampling and Graph Isomorphism Network
Authors: Yin Lihua , Chen Weizhe , Luo Xi , Yang Hongyu
Published: April 2024

In recent years, with the rapid development of the Internet of Things, large-scale botnet attacks have occurred frequently and have become an important challenge to network security. As artificial intelligence technology continues to evolve, intelligent detection solutions for botnets are constantly emerging. Although graph neural networks are widely used for botnet detection, directly handling large-scale botnet data becomes inefficient and challenging as the number of infected hosts increases and the network scale expands. Especially in the process of node level learning and inference, a large number of nodes and edges need to be processed, leading to a significant increase in computational complexity and posing new challenges to network security. This paper presents a novel approach that can accurately identify diverse intricate botnet architectures in extensive IoT networks based on the aforementioned circumstance. By utilizing GraphSAINT to process large-scale IoT botnet graph data, efficient and unbiased subgraph sampling has been achieved. In addition, a solution with enhanced information representation capability has been developed based on the Graph Isomorphism Network (GIN) for botnet detection. Compared with the five currently popular graph neural network (GNN) models, our approach has been tested on C2, P2P, and Chord datasets, and higher accuracy has been achieved.
The Blow-Up of the Local Energy Solution to the Wave Equation with a Nontrivial Boundary Condition
Authors: Liu Yulong
Published: April 2024

In this study, we examine the wave equation with a nontrivial boundary condition. The main target of this study is to prove the local-in-time existence and the blow-up in finite time of the energy solution. Through the construction of an auxiliary function and the imposition of appropriate conditions on the initial data, we establish the both lower and upper bounds for the blow-up time of the solution. Meanwhile, based on these estimates, we obtain the result of the local-in-time existence and the blow-up of the energy solution. This approach enhances our understanding of the dynamics leading to blow-up in the considered condition.
A Novel Method for Predicting the Behavior of a Sucker Rod Pumping Unit Based on the Polished Rod Velocity
Authors: Yin Jiaojian , Ma Hongzhang
Published: April 2024

Fault dynamometer cards are the basis of the diagnosis technique for sucker rod pumping systems. Predicting fault cards with a pumping condition model is an economical and effective method. The usual model is described by a mixed function of the pump displacement and pump load, and it is difficult to use in the prediction method based on the analytical solution of the sucker rod string wave equation. In this paper, a normal pumping condition model described by a function of polished rod velocity is proposed. For the analytical solution of the sucker rod wave equation, an iterative prediction algorithm with pumping condition models is proposed, its convergence is analyzed, and then it is validated by classical finite difference method simulated cards and measured surface dynamometer cards. The results show that the proposed algorithm is accurate. The algorithm has a maximum relative error of 0.10% for the classical method simulated card area and 1.45% for the measured card area. The research of this paper provides an effective scheme for the design, prediction, and fault diagnosis of a sucker rod pumping system with an analytical solution.
Initial Coefficient Bounds Analysis for Novel Subclasses of Bi-Univalent Functions Linked with Lucas-Balancing Polynomials
Authors: Swamy Sondekola Rudra , Breaz Daniel , Venugopal Kala , Kempegowda Mamatha Paduvalapattana , Cotîrlă Luminita-Ioana , Rapeanu Eleonora
Published: April 2024

We investigate some subclasses of regular and bi-univalent functions in the open unit disk that are associated with Lucas-Balancing polynomials in this work. For functions that belong to these subclasses, we obtain upper bounds on their initial coefficients. The Fekete–Szegö problem is also discussed. Along with presenting some new results, we also explore pertinent connections to earlier findings.
A Three-Dimensional Velocity Field Related to a Generalized Third-Grade Fluid Model
Authors: Carapau Fernando , Correia Paulo , Rodrigues Gracino
Published: April 2024

In this work, we propose a new three-dimensional constitutive equation related to a third-grade fluid. This proposal is based on experimental work for which the viscosity term and the terms related to viscoelasticity may depend on the shear rate, in accordance with a power-law type model. The numerical implementation of this fluid model is rather demanding in terms of computational calculation and, in this sense, we use the Cosserat theory related to fluid dynamics, which makes the transition from the three-dimensional fluid model to a one-dimensional fluid model for a specific geometry under study which, in this case, is a straight tube with constant circular cross-section. Based on this approximation theory, the one-dimensional fluid model is solved by assuming an ordinary differential equation involving: an unsteady mean pressure gradient; an unsteady volume flow rate; the Womersley number; and the viscosity and viscoelasticity parameters. Consequently, for specific data, and using the Runge–Kutta method, we can obtain the solution for the unsteady volume flow rate and we can present simulations to the three-dimensional velocity field.
The Influence of Tacrolimus on Cellular Morphology, Cellular Viability, Osteogenic Differentiation, and mRNA Expression within Stem Cell Spheroids
Authors: Park Won-Jong , Han Sung-Hoon , Lee Hyun-Jin , Kim Ju-Hwan , Song Hye-Jung , Park Jun-Beom
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: Tacrolimus is a macrolide lactone compound derived from the bacterium Streptomyces tsukubensis, widely known as an immunosuppressant. In basic research, the effects of tacrolimus on osteogenic differentiation have been tested using mesenchymal stem cells. In this study, tacrolimus’s effects on the cellular survival and osteogenic differentiation of stem cell spheroids were investigated. Materials and Methods: Concave microwells were used to form stem cell spheroids in the presence of tacrolimus at final concentrations of 0 μg/mL, 0.1 μg/mL, 1 μg/mL, 10 μg/mL, and 100 μg/mL. A microscope was used to test cellular vitality qualitatively, and an assay kit based on water-soluble tetrazolium salt was used to measure cellular viability quantitatively. Alkaline phosphatase activity and an anthraquinone dye test for measuring calcium deposits were used to assess osteogenic differentiation. To assess the expression of osteogenic differentiation, a quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and RNA sequencing were performed. Results: Spheroids across all concentrations maintained a relatively uniform and spherical shape. Cell viability assay indicated that tacrolimus, up to a concentration of 100 μg/mL, did not significantly impair cell viability within spheroids cultured in osteogenic media. The increase in calcium deposition, particularly at lower concentrations of tacrolimus, points toward an enhancement in osteogenic differentiation. There was an increase in COL1A1 expression across all tacrolimus concentrations, as evidenced by the elevated mean and median values, which may indicate enhanced osteogenic activity. Conclusions: This study showed that tacrolimus does not significantly impact the viability of stem cell spheroids in osteogenic media, even at high concentrations. It also suggests that tacrolimus may enhance osteogenic differentiation, as indicated by increased calcium deposition and COL1A1 expression. These findings advance our understanding of tacrolimus’s potential roles in tissue repair, regeneration, and stem cell-based therapeutic applications.
Assessing Uveitis Risk following Pediatric Down Syndrome Diagnosis: A TriNetX Database Study
Authors: Hsu Alan Y. , Wang Yu-Hsun , Lin Chun-Ju , Li You-Ling , Hsia Ning-Yi , Lai Chun-Ting , Kuo Hou-Ting , Chen Huan-Sheng , Tsai Yi-Yu , Wei James Cheng-Chung
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: The risks of uveitis development among pediatric patients with Down syndrome (DS) remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to determine the risk of uveitis following a diagnosis of DS. Materials and Methods: This multi-institutional retrospective cohort study utilized the TriNetX database to identify individuals aged 18 years and younger with and without a diagnosis of DS between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2023. The non-DS cohort consisted of randomly selected control patients matched by selected variables. This included gender, age, ethnicity, and certain comorbidities. The main outcome is the incidence of new-onset uveitis. Statistical analysis of the uveitis risk was reported using hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Separate analyses of the uveitis risk among DS patients based on age groups and gender were also performed. Results: A total of 53,993 individuals with DS (46.83% female, 58.26% white, mean age at index 5.21 ± 5.76 years) and 53,993 non-DS individuals (45.56% female, 58.28% white, mean age at index 5.21 ± 5.76 years) were recruited from the TriNetX database. Our analysis also showed no overall increased risk of uveitis among DS patients (HR: 1.33 [CI: 0.89–1.99]) compared to the non-DS cohort across the 23-year study period. Subgroup analyses based on different age groups showed that those aged 0–1 year (HR: 1.36 [CI: 0.68–2.72]), 0–5 years (HR: 1.34 [CI: 0.75–2.39]), and 6–18 years (HR: 1.15 [CI: 0.67–1.96]) were found to have no association with uveitis risk compared to their respective non-DS comparators. There was also no increased risk of uveitis among females (HR: 1.49 [CI: 0.87–2.56]) or males (HR: 0.82 [CI: 0.48–1.41]) with DS compared to their respective non-DS comparators. Conclusions: Our study found no overall increased risk of uveitis following a diagnosis of DS compared to a matched control population.
Special Issue “Commemorative Issue Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America: Understanding and Treating Alzheimer’s Disease”
Authors: Reiss Allison B. , Pinkhasov Aaron
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in older persons [...]
A Comprehensive Analysis of HOXB13 Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Jeong Eun-A , Lee Moo-Hyun , Bae An-Na , Kim Jongwan , Park Jong-Ho , Lee Jae-Ho
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and is caused by multiple factors. To explore novel targets for HCC treatment, we comprehensively analyzed the expression of HomeoboxB13 (HOXB13) and its role in HCC. Materials and Methods: The clinical significance of HCC was investigated using open gene expression databases, such as TIMER, UALCAN, KM, OSlihc, and LinkedOmics, and immunohistochemistry analysis. We also analyzed cell invasion and migration in HCC cell lines transfected with HOXB13-siRNA and their association with MMP9, E2F1, and MEIS1. Results: HOXB13 expression was higher in fibrolamellar carcinoma than in other histological subtypes. Its expression was associated with lymph node metastasis, histological stage, and tumor grade. It was positively correlated with immune cell infiltration of B cells (R = 0.246), macrophages (R = 0.182), myeloid dendritic cells (R = 0.247), neutrophils (R = 0.117), and CD4+ T cells (R = 0.258) and negatively correlated with immune cell infiltration of CD8+ T cells (R = −0.107). A positive correlation was observed between HOXB13, MMP9 (R = 0.176), E2F1 (R = 0.241), and MEIS1 (R = 0.189) expression (p < 0.001). The expression level of HOXB13 was significantly downregulated in both HepG2 and PLC/PFR/5 cell lines transfected with HOXB13-siRNA compared to that in cells transfected with NC siRNA (p < 0.05). Additionally, HOXB13 significantly affected cell viability and wound healing. Conclusions: HOXB13 overexpression may lead to poor prognosis in patients with HCC. Additional in vivo studies are required to improve our understanding of the biological role and the exact mechanism of action of HOXB13 in HCC.
A New Full Digital Workflow for Fixed Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Full-Arch Edentulism Using the All-on-4 Concept
Authors: Martins João , Rangel João , de Araújo Nobre Miguel , Ferro Ana , Nunes Mariana , Almeida Ricardo , Moura Guedes Carlos
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: Recent digital workflows are being developed for full-arch rehabilitations supported by implants with immediate function. The purpose of this case series is to describe a new digital workflow for the All-on-4 concept. (2) Methods: The patients were rehabilitated using the All-on-4 concept with a digital workflow including computerized tomography scanning, intra-oral scanning, and CAD-CAM production of the temporary prosthesis, with the 3D printing of stackable guides (base guide, implant guide, and prosthetic guide). The passive fit of the prostheses and the time to perform the rehabilitations were evaluated. (3) Results: The digital workflow allowed for predictable bone reduction, the insertion of implants with immediate function, and the connection of an implant-supported prosthesis with immediate loading. The time registered to perform the full-arch rehabilitations (implant insertion, abutment connection, prosthesis connection) was below 2 hours and 30 min. No passive fit issues were noted. (4) Conclusions: within the limitation of this case series, the digital workflow applied to the All-on-4 concept using stackable base-, implant-, and prosthetic guides constitutes a potential alternative with decreased time for the procedure without prejudice of the outcome.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Preparation and Application of Advanced Functional Membranes”
Authors: Gugliuzza Annarosa , Boi Cristiana
Published: April 2024

Membrane science is a discipline that cuts across almost all fields of research and experimentation [...]
A Study of {10-12} Twinning Activity Associated with Stress State in Mg-3Al-1Zn Alloy during Compression
Authors: Lu Boqin , Wang Wei , Yao Jinyi , Deng Liping , Xiao Lei , Wang Bingshu
Published: April 2024

An eight-sided prism sample, obtained from a hot-rolled AZ31 magnesium alloy sheet, was compressed at room temperature along the transverse direction to investigate the influence of local strain on twinning behavior using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) measurements, hardness distribution, and metallographic observations. The octagonal surface of the sample was divided into distinct regions based on hardness distribution and metallographic observations. Combined analysis of the Schmid factor (SF) and the strain compatibility factor (m’) was employed to study twin variant selection. Basal on SF ratio distribution, the Schmid factor criterion, can predict over 75% of observed twin variants in regions A and D (normal stress samples). In contrast, 64% of twin variant selection behavior in region C (shear stress sample) can be effectively explained using a pure shear model. Twin variants with high strain compatibility factors may prefer activation to reduce stress concentration. The strain compatibility factor is more appropriate than the Schmid factor for analyzing the effect of local strain on the selection behavior of twin variants.
Effect of Initial Microstructure on the Temperature Dependence of the Flow Stress and Deformation Microstructure under Uniaxial Compression of Ti-407
Authors: Barboza Luis , López Enrique , Guajardo Hugo , Salinas Armando
Published: April 2024

In this study, the influence of initial microstructure and deformation temperature on the flow stress behavior and microstructural evolution of TIMETAL®407 (Ti-407) alloy are investigated. For this purpose, compression cylinders were β-annealed at 940 °C and then cooled to room temperature using furnace cooling, static air, and water quenching to promote three initial microstructures with different α lath thicknesses. The annealed cylinders were compressed isothermally in the range of 750 °C to 910 °C at a constant crosshead speed of 0.05 mm/s up to an engineering strain of −0.8. The resulting stress–strain curves are discussed in terms of the morphology and distribution of the α and β phases. It was found that flow stress is inversely proportional to deformation temperature for all initial microstructures. At the lowest temperatures, compressive yield strength was higher in water-quenched and air-cooled samples than in furnace-cooled specimens, suggesting that the acicular α-phase morphology obtained by rapid cooling could enhance mechanical strength by hindering dislocation motion. Two high-temperature flow regimes were determined based on the shape of the flow stress curves, indicating microstructural changes occurring during deformation. At higher temperatures, the effect of the initial microstructure is negligible as the primary α phase is transformed to the β phase at around 850 °C irrespective of the initial α-lath thickness.
Asymmetric Shape Control Ability and Mutual Influence of the S6-High Cold Rolling Mill
Authors: Yuan Tieheng , Sun Wenquan , Guo Ruichun , Yang Tingsong
Published: April 2024

The control of the asymmetric shape of strips has always been an important and difficult part of the production of cold rolling strips. In this paper, the S6-High cold rolling mill is taken as the research object. A finite element model of this mill is constructed using ABAQUS 2022 software, and a multistage working condition simulation analysis is carried out. The independent effects of asymmetric Intermediate Roll Bending (IRB) and asymmetric Intermediate Roll Shifting (IRS) on the strip shape are investigated by constructing an asymmetric convexity evaluation index. The equivalent relationship between the asymmetric roll bending and the asymmetric roll shifting was determined by analysing the coupling effect of the benchmark bending and shifting rollers on their asymmetric shape control characteristics. The on-site application shows that optimizing the amount of preset asymmetric shape control can significantly improve the asymmetric situation of the shape, providing theoretical guidance for the asymmetric shape control of the S6-High cold rolling mill.
Interaction of Trypanosoma cruzi, Triatomines and the Microbiota of the Vectors—A Review
Authors: Schaub Günter A.
Published: April 2024

This review summarizes the interactions between Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiologic agent of Chagas disease, its vectors, triatomines, and the diverse intestinal microbiota of triatomines, which includes mutualistic symbionts, and highlights open questions. T. cruzi strains show great biological heterogeneity in their development and their interactions. Triatomines differ from other important vectors of diseases in their ontogeny and the enzymes used to digest blood. Many different bacteria colonize the intestinal tract of triatomines, but only Actinomycetales have been identified as mutualistic symbionts. Effects of the vector on T. cruzi are indicated by differences in the ability of T. cruzi to establish in the triatomines and in colonization peculiarities, i.e., proliferation mainly in the posterior midgut and rectum and preferential transformation into infectious metacyclic trypomastigotes in the rectum. In addition, certain forms of T. cruzi develop after feeding and during starvation of triatomines. Negative effects of T. cruzi on the triatomine vectors appear to be particularly evident when the triatomines are stressed and depend on the T. cruzi strain. Effects on the intestinal immunity of the triatomines are induced by ingested blood-stage trypomastigotes of T. cruzi and affect the populations of many non-symbiotic intestinal bacteria, but not all and not the mutualistic symbionts. After the knockdown of antimicrobial peptides, the number of non-symbiotic bacteria increases and the number of T. cruzi decreases. Presumably, in long-term infections, intestinal immunity is suppressed, which supports the growth of specific bacteria, depending on the strain of T. cruzi. These interactions may provide an approach to disrupt T. cruzi transmission.
Editorial: Impact of Special Issue “The Microbial Population of the Gastrointestinal Tract of Animals: Impacts on Host Physiology”
Authors: Lourenco Jeferson M. , Callaway Todd R.
Published: April 2024

In recent years, there has been an exponential increase in the number of papers that have investigated the microbiome of animals and humans [...]
Time to Positivity in Blood Culture Bottles Inoculated with Sonication Fluid from Fracture-Related Infections
Authors: Henssler Leopold , Schellenberger Lena , Baertl Susanne , Klute Lisa , Heyd Robert , Kerschbaum Maximilian , Alt Volker , Popp Daniel
Published: April 2024

The timely and accurate identification of causative agents is crucial for effectively managing fracture-related infections (FRIs). Among various diagnostic methods, the “time to positivity” (TTP) of cultures has emerged as a valuable predictive factor in infectious diseases. While sonication of implants and inoculation of blood culture bottles with sonication fluid have enhanced sensitivity, data on the TTP of this microbiological technique remain limited. Therefore, patients with ICM criteria for confirmed FRI treated at our institution between March 2019 and March 2023 were retrospectively identified and their microbiological records were analyzed. The primary outcome parameter was TTP for different microorganism species cultured in a liquid culture collected from patients with confirmed FRI. A total of 155 sonication fluid samples from 126 patients (average age 57.0 ± 17.4 years, 68.3% males) was analyzed. Positive bacterial detection was observed in 78.7% (122/155) of the liquid culture pairs infused with sonication fluid. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent organism (42.6%). Streptococcus species exhibited the fastest TTP (median 11.9 h), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (median 12.1 h) and Gram-negative bacteria (median 12.5 h), all of which had a 100% detection rate within 48 h after inoculation. Since all Gram-negative pathogens yielded positive culture results within 24 h, it could be discussed if empirical antibiotic therapy could be de-escalated early and limited towards the Gram-positive germ spectrum if no Gram-negative pathogens are detected up to this time point in the context of antibiotic stewardship.
Alkaline-Tolerant Bacillus cereus 12GS: A Promising Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) Producer Isolated from the North of Mexico
Authors: San Miguel-González Gustavo de J. , Alemán-Huerta María E. , Martínez-Herrera Raul E. , Quintero-Zapata Isela , de la Torre-Zavala Susana , Avilés-Arnaut Hamlet , Gandarilla-Pacheco Fátima L. , de Luna-Santillana Erick de J.
Published: April 2024

Environmental pollution caused by petroleum-derived plastics continues to increase annually. Consequently, current research is interested in the search for eco-friendly bacterial polymers. The importance of Bacillus bacteria as producers of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) has been recognized because of their physiological and genetic qualities. In this study, twenty strains of Bacillus genus PHA producers were isolated. Production was initially evaluated qualitatively to screen the strains, and subsequently, the strain B12 or Bacillus sp. 12GS, with the highest production, was selected through liquid fermentation. Biochemical and molecular identification revealed it as a novel isolate of Bacillus cereus. Production optimization was carried out using the Taguchi methodology, determining the optimal parameters as 30 °C, pH 8, 150 rpm, and 4% inoculum, resulting in 87% and 1.91 g/L of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB). Kinetic studies demonstrated a higher production within 48 h. The produced biopolymer was analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), confirming the production of short-chain-length (scl) polyhydroxyalkanoate, named PHB, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed thermal properties, making it a promising material for various applications. The novel B. cereus isolate exhibited a high %PHB, emphasizing the importance of bioprospecting, study, and characterization for strains with biotechnological potential.
Electrochemical Behavior of Natural Manganese Oxides: Transforming Mining Waste into Energy Storage Materials
Authors: Soulamidis George , Kourmousi Maria , Mitsopoulou Christiana A. , Stouraiti Christina
Published: April 2024

The present research explores the potential of manganese oxide waste ore in energy storage applications, focusing on supercapacitors. The investigation assesses the electrochemical capabilities of natural manganese oxides obtained from the Drama region, which has been the main mining center of Greece for manganese ore, especially that of battery-grade quality. Samples were collected from abandoned mining sites in the Kato Nevrokopi area, Drama. The structure and composition of the manganese minerals were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrochemical tests involved the preparation of electrodes using natural nsutite and heat-treated nsutite (hausmannite). Then, the designed electrodes were subjected to cyclic voltammetry tests and charge–discharge measurements. The hausmannite electrode exhibited a higher specific capacitance of 667 F/g at a current density of 0.2 A/g, and the electrode material retained 98.3% of its initial capacitance after 1000 cycles. This study provides new perspectives on simple and efficient methods for transforming natural nsutite material from mining waste to hausmannite with greater structural homogeneity and better electrochemical behavior.
Purity Assessment of Tripropyl Phosphate through Mass Balance and 1H and 31P Quantitative Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Wan Yuebing , Li Kangcong , Li Xiuqin , Li Xiaomin , Chu Hongtao , Zhang Qinghe
Published: April 2024

Tripropyl phosphate (TnPP) is a commonly used organic phosphate flame retardant in the textiles, plastics, and coating industries. Residues are commonly detected in samples from the environment and food. The availability of certified reference materials (CRMs) is essential to ensure the accuracy and traceability of detection results. In this study, a comprehensive characterization of a CRM for TnPP was carried out, and its purity was evaluated using two distinct methodologies: mass balance (MB) and quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (qNMR). In the MB method, the levels of structurally related organic impurities are 1.37 mg/g. The water content was determined to be 3.16 mg/g, while inorganic impurities were found to be 0.87 mg/g, and no residual organic solvents were detected. Benzoic acid and monocrotophos were chosen as internal standards for 1H-qNMR and 31P-qNMR, respectively. The purity of the TnPP CRM was assessed as 994.6 mg/g, 994.1 mg/g, and 993.5 mg/g using MB, 1H-qNMR, and 31P-qNMR techniques, respectively. The verified purity of the TnPP CRM was ultimately determined to be 994.1 mg/g, with an expanded uncertainty of 3.4 mg/g (k = 2), ensuring traceability to the International System of Units (SI). This CRM can be effectively utilized for preparing calibration solutions suitable for the routine monitoring of TnPP residues in plastics and food samples.
Charge Storage Properties of Ferrimagnetic BaFe12O19 and Polypyrrole–BaFe12O19 Composites
Authors: Chen Silin , Zhitomirsky Igor
Published: April 2024

This investigation is motivated by an interest in multiferroic BaFe12O19 (BFO), which combines advanced ferrimagnetic and ferroelectric properties at room temperature and exhibits interesting magnetoelectric phenomena. The ferroelectric charge storage properties of BFO are limited due to high coercivity, low dielectric constant, and high dielectric losses. We report the pseudocapacitive behavior of BFO, which allows superior charge storage compared to the ferroelectric charge storage mechanism. The BFO electrodes show a remarkably high capacitance of 1.34 F cm−2 in a neutral Na2SO4 electrolyte. The charging mechanism is discussed. The capacitive behavior is linked to the beneficial effect of high-energy ball milling (HEBM) and the use of an efficient dispersant, which facilitates charge transfer. Another approach is based on the use of conductive polypyrrole (PPy) for the fabrication of PPy-BFO composites. The choice of new polyaromatic dopants with a high charge-to-mass ratio plays a crucial role in achieving a high capacitance of 4.66 F cm−2 for pure PPy electrodes. The composite PPy-BFO (50/50) electrodes show a capacitance of 3.39 F cm−2, low impedance, reduced charge transfer resistance, enhanced capacitance retention at fast charging rates, and good cyclic stability due to the beneficial effect of advanced dopants, HEBM, and synergy of the contribution of PPy and BFO.
CBD in the Treatment of Epilepsy
Authors: Borowicz-Reutt Kinga , Czernia Julia , Krawczyk Marlena
Published: April 2024

It has been several years since highly purified cannabidiol (CBD) was registered as a medication that can be used in children of at least 2 years of age to treat different types of seizures related to Lennox–Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome (DS), and more recently tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). During this time, 39 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and 13 meta-analyses on the efficacy and safety of CBD treatment have been published. Each of the meta-analyses had its own criteria for the RCTs’ inclusion and, therefore, slightly different interpretations of the analyzed data. Each of them contributed in its own way to the understanding of CBD pharmacology, mechanisms of therapeutic action, development of adverse reactions, and drug–drug interactions. Hence, it seemed reasonable to gather the most relevant data in one article and present all the current knowledge on the use of CBD in epilepsy. The results of the 13 meta-analyses presented herein confirmed the effectiveness and safety of CBD in children and adolescents with DREs. In adults, reliable conclusions cannot be drawn due to insufficient data.
Unveiling the Untapped Potential of Bertagnini’s Salts in Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Quinazolinones
Authors: Bera Shyamal Kanti , Behera Sourav , De Luca Lidia , Basoccu Francesco , Mocci Rita , Porcheddu Andrea
Published: April 2024

Microwave-assisted organic synthesis (MAOS) has emerged as a transformative technique in organic chemistry, significantly enhancing the speed, efficiency, and selectivity of chemical reactions. In our research, we have employed microwave irradiation to expedite the synthesis of quinazolinones, using water as an eco-friendly solvent and thereby adhering to the principles of green chemistry. Notably, the purification of the product was achieved without the need for column chromatography, thus streamlining the process. A key innovation in our approach is using aldehyde bisulfite adducts (Bertagnini’s salts) as solid surrogates of aldehydes. Bertagnini’s salts offer several advantages over free aldehydes, including enhanced stability, easier purification, and improved reactivity. Green metrics and Eco-Scale score calculations confirmed the sustainability of this approach, indicating a reduction in waste generation and enhanced sustainability outcomes. This methodology facilitates the synthesis of a diverse array of compounds, offering substantial contributions to the field, with potential for widespread applications in pharmaceutical research and beyond.
Synthesis, Structure and Antibacterial Activity of Two Novel Coordination Polymers Based on N,N′-bis(4-carbozvlbenzvl)-4-aminotoluene and Heterocyclic Ligand against S. aureus
Authors: Wang Ziyun , Zhao Lun , Jing Hongwei , Song Guanying , Li Jiayu
Published: April 2024

As the use of antibiotics increases, the increasing resistance of bacteria is the main reason for the reduced efficiency of antibacterial drugs, making the research of new antibacterial materials become new hot spot. In this article, two novel coordination polymers (CPs), namely, [Cd2(L)2(bibp)2]n (1) and [Ni(L)(bib)]n (2), where H2L = N,N′-bis(4-carbozvlbenzvl)-4-aminotoluene, bibp = 4,4′-bis(imidazol-1-yl)biphenyl, and bib = 1,3-bis(1-imidazoly)benzene, have been synthesized under solvothermal and hydrothermal condition. Structural clarification was performed through infrared spectrum and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, while thermal analysis and XRD technology were used for the performance assessment of compounds 1 and 2. In addition, antibacterial performance experiments showed that compounds 1 and 2 have certain selectivity in their antibacterial properties and have good antibacterial properties against S. aureus. As the concentration of the compound increases, the inhibitory effect gradually strengthens, and when the concentration of the compound reaches 500 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL, the concentration of the S. aureus solution no longer increases and has been completely inhibited.
Palladium-Catalyzed Esterification of Aryl Fluorosulfates with Aryl Formates
Authors: Chen Xue , Liang Yuan , Wang Wen-Wen , Miao Chengping , Chu Xue-Qiang , Rao Weidong , Xu Hao , Zhou Xiaocong , Shen Zhi-Liang
Published: April 2024

An efficient palladium-catalyzed carbonylation of aryl fluorosulfates with aryl formates for the facile synthesis of esters was developed. The cross-coupling reactions proceeded effectively in the presence of a palladium catalyst, phosphine ligand, and triethylamine in DMF to produce the corresponding esters in moderate to good yields. Of note, functionalities or substituents, such as nitro, cyano, methoxycarbonyl, trifluoromethyl, methylsulfonyl, trifluoromethoxy, fluoro, chloro, bromo, methyl, methoxy, N,N-dimethyl, and [1,3]dioxolyl, were well-tolerated in the reactions, which could be kept for late-stage modification. The reactions employing readily available and relatively robust aryl fluorosulfates as coupling electrophiles could potentially serve as an attractive alternative to traditional cross-couplings with the use of aryl halides and pseudohalides as substrates.
Carbonic Anhydrases: Different Active Sites, Same Metal Selectivity Rules
Authors: Kircheva Nikoleta , Angelova Silvia , Dudev Todor
Published: April 2024

Carbonic anhydrases are mononuclear metalloenzymes catalyzing the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide in organisms belonging to all three domains of life. Although the mechanism of the catalytic reaction is similar, different families of carbonic anhydrases do not have a common ancestor nor do they exhibit significant resemblance in the amino acid sequence or the structure and composition of the metal-binding sites. Little is known about the physical principles determining the metal affinity and selectivity of the catalytic centers, and how well the native metal is protected from being dislodged by other metal species from the local environment. Here, we endeavor to shed light on these issues by studying (via a combination of density functional theory calculations and polarizable continuum model computations) the thermodynamic outcome of the competition between the native metal cation and its noncognate competitor in various metal-binding sites. Typical representatives of the competing cations from the cellular environments of the respective classes of carbonic anhydrases are considered. The calculations reveal how the Gibbs energy of the metal competition changes when varying the metal type, structure, composition, and solvent exposure of the active center. Physical principles governing metal competition in different carbonic anhydrase metal-binding sites are delineated.