bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA) Model for Extracting Urban Fractions from Landsat and Sentinel-2A Images in the Al-Ahsa Oasis, Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Salih Abdelrahim
Published: September 2023

The rapid expansion of urban areas is a major driver of deforestation and other associated damage to the local ecosystem and environment in arid and semi-arid oases, especially in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia. It is therefore necessary to accurately map and monitor urban areas to maintain the ecosystem services in these oases. In this study, built-up areas were mapped using a spectral mixture analysis (SMA) model in the Al-Ahsa Oasis in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia by analyzing Landsat images, including Thematic Mapper (TM), Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+), Operational Land Imager (OLI), and Sentinel-2A images, acquired between 1990 and 2020. Principle component analysis (PCA) was used to build and select endmembers, and then SMA was applied to each image to extract urban/built-up fractions. In addition, this study also discusses the possible driving forces of the urban dynamics. SMA classification performance was assessed using fraction error maps and a confusion matrix. The results show that the Al-Ahsa Oasis’ urban area had been rapidly expanding during 2010–2020 with an expansion rate of nearly 9%. The results also indicated that the SMA model provides high precisions (overall accuracy = ~95% to 100%) for an oasis urban mapping in an arid and semi-arid region that is disturbed by the mixed-pixel problem, such as the Al-Ahsa Oasis in eastern Saudi Arabia.
Unlocking the Potential of Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) for Enhanced Agricultural Sustainability: From Environmental Benefits to Poultry Nutrition
Authors: Baptista Filipa , Almeida Mariana , Paié-Ribeiro Jéssica , Barros Ana Novo , Rodrigues Miguel
Published: September 2023

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the myriad applications of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) in agricultural contexts, with a particular emphasis on its role in fostering sustainable poultry production. Our examination spans three key domains: the use of SMS in fertilizers, its impact on environmental factors and gas emissions, and its contribution to poultry nutrition. This review synthesizes findings from multiple studies that underscore the potential of composted SMS as a viable alternative to conventional inorganic fertilizers, effectively meeting crop nutrient needs while mitigating groundwater contamination risks. Moreover, we highlight the substantial environmental advantages associated with the utilization of SMS and poultry waste, including reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of sustainable waste management practices. Additionally, we explore the promising outcomes of integrating SMS into animal feed formulations, which have demonstrated significant enhancements in livestock growth performance and overall health. In sum, this review underscores the versatility and untapped potential of SMS as a valuable agricultural resource, with a particular focus on its role in advancing sustainable practices, optimizing nutrient management, and harnessing the value of organic waste materials, especially in the context of poultry production.
Analysis of the Impact of Ethanol Extract of Calendula officinalis L. on Human Fibroblast Cell Cultures Using the PANsys 3000 Device for Breeding and Visualization of Cells
Authors: Nowak-Terpiłowska Agnieszka , Nowak Izabela , Feliczak-Guzik Agnieszka , Wyganowska Marzena
Published: September 2023

Calendula officinalis L. promotes wound healing and might be effective in gingival fibroblast stimulation. The influence of different concentrations of Calendula officinalis L. ethanol extract on human gingival fibroblast was visualized using PANsys 3000—a fully automated cell culture device used for in vitro culture to study cells under conditions similar to in vivo. The human fibroblast cells were isolated from gingival tissue. The 100% brew of Calendula officinalis L., as well as 7% and 20% Calendula officinalis L. ethanol extract, were added to the cultured cells and observed for 72 h. The qualitative and quantitative composition of the volatile compounds of marigold Calendula officinalis L. flowers are presented in this study. The essential oil compounds of the decoction were isolated with solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and analyzed with gas chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, and other compounds was demonstrated. The composition was correlated with the fragrance properties. Observation of gingival fibroblast showed that there were no changes in cell morphology and proliferation after 100% Calendula officinalis L. brew stimulation. The growth and cell division were not inhibited. Likewise, the addition of 7% or 20% ethanol in water extract of Calendula officinalis L. stimulation did not inhibit the fibroblast proliferation. Overall, ethanol extracts of Calendula officinalis L. decrease the alcohol cytotoxic influence on gingival fibroblasts.
Effect of h-BN and Nano-SiO2 Fillers on the High-Temperature Tribological Properties of PEEK/PI-Based Composites
Authors: Li Mengjiao , Yang Jingjing , Ma Shengqi , Liu Gang , Yang Hongru , Yao Jianan
Published: September 2023

PEEK is being used increasingly often in seals, bushings, bearings, and other moving parts due to its excellent mechanical and tribological properties. Herein, PEEK-based composites were prepared using PI as the organic filler and h-BN and nano-SiO2 particles as the inorganic fillers. There was significant improvement in the tribological properties of PEEK at conditions above the glass transition temperature; the coefficient of friction of +20P/4B/4Si was stabilized at 0.06 at 200 °C and the wear rate was reduced by 60% compared to PEEK. The role played by the thermal conductivity of h-BN and the promotion of friction transfer film by nano-SiO2 in improving the tribological properties of PEEK is illustrated. The modified composites exhibited stable mechanical and tribological properties over a wide temperature range, which is instructive for instrumentation and testing applications in harsh environments.
Resistance to Wear during Friction without Lubrication of Steel-Cast Iron Pairing with Nanocrystalline Structure-Reinforced Surface Layers
Authors: Hurey Ihor , Maruschak Pavlo , Augousti Andy , Flowers Alan , Gurey Volodymyr , Dzyura Volodymyr , Prentkovskis Olegas
Published: September 2023

During the TDT of 41Cr4 steel specimens, a uniformly reinforced white layer with a nano-crystalline structure is formed in the surface layers. The wear resistance of sliding friction without the lubrication of a pair of steel 41Cr4—grey cast iron EN-GJL-200 (EN) under the face-to-face (“ring-ring”) scheme has been studied. It is revealed that when the sliding velocity changes from 0.25 m/s to 4 m/s and the unit load changes from 0.2 MPa to 1.0 MPa, a pair with a reinforced surface layer on 41Cr4 steel specimens and unreinforced specimens of EN-GJL-200 (EN) grey cast iron has a higher wear resistance than an unreinforced pair. The wear resistance increases for both reinforced and not reinforced specimens operating in a friction pair.
Study of the Relationship between Changes in the Structural, Optical, and Strength Properties of AlN Ceramics Subjected to Irradiation with Heavy Xe23+ Ions
Authors: Bikhert Yeugeniy V. , Kozlovskiy Artem L. , Popov Anatoli I. , Zdorovets Maxim V.
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study is to comprehensively analyze the influence of different fluences of irradiation with Xe23+ heavy ions on alterations in the structural, optical, and strength properties of AlN ceramics and to establish a connection between structural distortions and alterations in the optical and mechanical properties of the ceramics. X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis and Raman spectroscopy, and indentation and single-compression methods were used as research methods. During the study, it was demonstrated that at low irradiation fluences, the main role in the changes in the properties of the AlN ceramics is played by effects related to changes in their optical properties and a fundamental absorption edge shift, which characterizes changes in the electronic properties of the ceramics (changes in the distribution of electron density). A study of the variations in the optical properties of the examined samples in relation to the irradiation fluence showed that when the fluence surpasses 5 × 1011 ion/cm2, an extra-spectral absorption band emerges within the range of 3.38–3.40 eV. This band is distinctive for the creation of vacancy ON–VAl complexes within the damaged layer’s structure. The presence of these complexes signifies structural deformations and the accumulation of defective inclusions within the damaged layer. An analysis of changes in the parameters of the crystal lattice showed that structural distortions in the damaged layer are due to the accumulation of tensile residual mechanical stresses, an increase in the concentration of which leads to the swelling and destruction of the damaged layer. Some correlations between the mechanical properties of ceramics and the irradiation fluence indicate the ceramics’ remarkable resistance to radiation-induced brittleness and weakening. These effects become apparent only when structural damage accumulates, resulting in the swelling of the crystal lattice exceeding 2.5–3%.
Review of Cutting Temperature Measurement Methods
Authors: Cichosz Piotr , Karolczak Paweł , Waszczuk Kamil
Published: September 2023

During the cutting process, large quantities of emitted heat are concentrated on a small surface area of the interface between the workpiece and the cutting edge. The resultant very high temperature significantly affects the tool life. Knowledge of maximum temperatures to be expected on the cutting edges is important, as it allows the cutting conditions to be adjusted in such a manner that the critical value of thermal resistance is not exceeded for the cutting material. In effect, the maximum effectiveness of the working process is maintained. This article offers a systematic presentation of methods used in cutting temperature measurements. It discusses their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the usefulness of the individual methods in different types of machining processes. It also points to the possibility of methodological errors which significantly reduce measurement accuracy. The above issues are believed to justify a discussion of different cutting temperature measurement methods. The conclusions here presented may be of particular importance to researchers interested in the field, especially in high-efficiency machining, new cutting materials and cutting-edge protective coatings, as well as various methods for cutting fluid applications. They may allow a more informed selection of measurement methods most suitable for particular situations.
Understanding the Effect of Electron Beam Melting Scanning Strategies on the Aluminum Content and Materials State of Single Ti-6Al-4V Feedstock
Authors: O’Donnell Katie , Quintana Maria J. , Collins Peter C.
Published: September 2023

Research on the additive manufacturing of metals often neglects any characterization of the composition of final parts, erroneously assuming a compositional homogeneity that matches the feedstock material. Here, the composition of electron-beam-melted Ti-6Al-4V produced through three distinct scanning strategies (linear raster and two point melting strategies, random fill and Dehoff fill) is characterized both locally and globally through energy-dispersive spectroscopy and quantitative chemical analysis. As a result of the different scanning strategies used, differing levels of preferential vaporization occur across the various parts, leading to distinct final compositions, with extremes of ~5.8 wt.% Al and ~4.8 wt.% Al. In addition, energy-dispersive spectroscopy composition maps reveal specific features in both the XY and XZ planes (with Z being the build direction) as a result of local inhomogeneous preferential vaporization. The subsequent change in composition significantly modifies the materials’ state of parts, wherein parts and local regions with higher aluminum contents lead to higher hardness levels (with a ~50 HV difference) and elastic property values and vice versa. While varying scan strategies and scan parameters are known to modify the microstructure and properties of a part, the effect on composition cannot, and should not, be neglected.
Analysis of Incremental Sheet Forming of Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Coman Costel Catalin , Mazurchevici Simona-Nicoleta , Carausu Constantin , Nedelcu Dumitru
Published: September 2023

Recent developments in incremental sheet forming have resulted in the creation of novel manufacturing processes that are highly adaptable and could bring significant economic benefits for advanced technologies and low-volume production. In this manuscript, the following variables were examined: the variation in the deformation forces for a part with a pyramidal trunk shape; the variation in the deformations and thinning of the Al 3003 material during the incremental forming process; and the variation in the accuracy of the incrementally formed part and the quality of the surfaces (surface roughness). The components of the forces in the incremental forming have increasing values from the beginning of the process to the maximum value due to the hardening process. The TiN-coated tool ensures lower values of the forming components. Due to the kinematics of the forming process, deviations, especially in shape, from the part in the drawing are observed, which are shown by the radius of curvature of the side wall of the part, the appearance of a radius of connection between the wall and the bottom of the part, as well as dimensional deviations that are expressed by the variation in the forming depth. Concerning the smoothness of the surfaces, it was observed that the best roughness results were obtained in the case of the TiN-coated tool.
Characteristics and Functionality of Cantilevers and Scanners in Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Dzedzickis Andrius , Rožėnė Justė , Bučinskas Vytautas , Viržonis Darius , Morkvėnaitė-Vilkončienė Inga
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we provide a systematic review of atomic force microscopy (AFM), a fast-developing technique that embraces scanners, controllers, and cantilevers. The main objectives of this review are to analyze the available technical solutions of AFM, including the limitations and problems. The main questions the review addresses are the problems of working in contact, noncontact, and tapping AFM modes. We do not include applications of AFM but rather the design of different parts and operation modes. Since the main part of AFM is the cantilever, we focused on its operation and design. Information from scientific articles published over the last 5 years is provided. Many articles in this period disclose minor amendments in the mechanical system but suggest innovative AFM control and imaging algorithms. Some of them are based on artificial intelligence. During operation, control of cantilever dynamic characteristics can be achieved by magnetic field, electrostatic, or aerodynamic forces.
An Investigation into the Relationship between Density and Pulverization Ratio for Tannin-Furanic Foam
Authors: Yuan Wenbin , Essawy Hisham , Ding Qiaomei , Zhou Xiaojian , Chen Xinyi
Published: September 2023

Four types of classical tannin-based foam samples were prepared via different methods in the current study with an attempt to find out the impact of each one on the physico-mechanical properties. The results of performed tests showed similarity to the general trend of related research, with typical negative relation between the foam density and mechanical strength. A critical point was found for each type of foam samples, for example, for tannin-formaldehyde foams (TFF), they were in the range of 85–95 kg/m3, while for tannin-glutaraldehyde foams (TGF), mechanically-generated tannin foams (MTF) and steam-driven tannin furanic foams (STDF), they were about 52–62 kg/m3, 53–63 kg/m3, and 73–83 kg/m3, respectively. This implies a significant change for density and mechanical strength, has been dig out by intensive experimental results and analysis. In addition, a non-liner relationship between density and pulverization ratio was obtained by fitting the curves obtained by the experiment results. Finally, visualization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) together with evaluation of the compression strength presented a deeper insight to illustrate the different factors affecting foam density and pulverization ratio.
Identification of Tool Wear Based on Infographics and a Double-Attention Network
Authors: Ni Jing , Liu Xuansong , Meng Zhen , Cui Yiming
Published: September 2023

Tool wear is a crucial factor in machining as it directly impacts surface quality and indirectly decreases machining efficiency, which leads to significant economic losses. Hence, monitoring tool wear state is of the utmost importance for achieving high performance and efficient machining. Although monitoring tool wear state using a single sensor has been validated in laboratory settings, it has certain drawbacks such as limited feature information acquisition and inability to learn important features adaptively. These limitations pose challenges to quickly extending the monitoring function of tool wear state of the machine tools. To solve these problems, this paper proposes a double-attention deep learning network based on vibroacoustic signal fusion feature infographics. The first solution is the construction of novel infographics using tool-intrinsic characteristics and multi-domain fusion features of multi-sensor inputs, which includes correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and feature fusion. The second solution is to build a novel deep network with a double-attention module and a spatial pyramid pooling module which can accurately and quickly identify tool wear state by successfully extracting critical spatial data from the infographics at various scales. The validity of the network is examined through an interpretability analysis based on the class activation graph. In terms of the tool wear status recognition task, the F1 score of the double-attention model based on an information graph is 11.61% higher than Resnet18, and peak recognition accuracy reaches 97.98%.
Optimal Control Strategy for SLBRS with Two Control Inputs
Authors: Zhao Xiangqing
Published: September 2023

Computer virus attacks result in significant losses each year, drawing considerable attention from enterprises, governments, academic institutions, and various other sectors. Researchers have proposed various approaches to fight against computer viruses, including antivirus software and internet firewalls. In this paper, we focus on investigating computer virus transmission from the perspective of mathematical modeling. Our main contributions in this paper are threefold: (1) we improve the classical SLBRS model by incorporating cure rates, effectively capturing the dynamics of computer network maintenance; (2) we introduce an optimal control system within the SLBRS framework, with the dual objectives of minimizing network detoxification costs and reducing the proportion of broken-out nodes; and (3) by employing Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle, we establish the existence and uniqueness of an optimal control strategy for the proposed control system. Furthermore, we perform numerical simulations to demonstrate the effectiveness of our theoretical analyses.
Design a Robust Proportional-Derivative Gain-Scheduling Control for a Magnetic Levitation System
Authors: Almobaied Moayed , Al-Nahhal Hassan S. , Arrieta Orlando , Vilanova Ramon
Published: September 2023

This study focuses on the design of a robust PD gain-scheduling controller (PD-GS-C) for an unstable SISO (single-input, single-output) magnetic levitation system with two electromagnets (MLS2EM). Magnetic levitation systems offer various advantages, including friction-free, reliable, fast, and cost-effective operations. However, due to their unstable and highly nonlinear nature, these systems require sophisticated feedback control techniques to ensure optimal performance and functionality. To address these challenges, in this study, we derive the nonlinear state-space mathematical model of the MLS2EM and linearize it around five different operating points. The PD-GS-C controller aims to stabilize the system and improve steady-state control error. The strategy for obtaining the PD controller gains involves a parameter space technique, which specifies performance requirements. This technique results in ranges of proportional (KP) and derivative (KD) gains that are used by the PD-GS-C structure. To optimize the controller’s performance further, we utilize the big bang–big crunch optimization technique (BB-BC) to determine the optimal PD gains within the specified ranges. The optimization process focuses on achieving optimal performance in terms of a specific performance index function. This function quantifies the system’s time-domain step response criteria, which include minimizing overshoot percentage, settling time, and rising time. The index function is inversely proportional to the desired performance criteria, meaning that the goal is to maximize the index function to optimize the system’s performance. To validate the effectiveness and viability of the proposed strategy, we conducts MATLAB simulations and real-time experiments. The simulations and experimental findings serve to demonstrate the controller’s performance and verify its capabilities in stabilizing the MLS2EM magnetic levitation system.
Real-Time Malfunction Detection of Maglev Suspension Controllers
Authors: Wang Su-Mei , Wang You-Wu , Ni Yi-Qing , Lu Yang
Published: September 2023

This study aims to develop a track-side online monitoring system for malfunction detection in the suspension controllers of maglev trains during their in-service operation. The hardware module of the system includes two arrays of accelerometers deployed on an F-type rail and a data acquisition unit. The software module of the system consists of codes for three functions: (i) the identification of time intervals in relation to the passage of each suspension controller via synchrosqueezing transform; (ii) the extraction of a feature index (FI) sequence synthesized by modulating the response amplitude, frequency, and running speed; and (iii) the formulation of a Bayesian dynamic linear model for real-time malfunction detection in maglev suspension controllers. For verification of the proposed monitoring system and malfunction detection algorithm, full-scale tests have been conducted on an maglev test line using the devised system, where a maglev train was run at different speeds with malfunction occurring in the suspension controllers. The malfunction detection results of the proposed approach are exemplified via comparison with the recorded suspension gaps after the trial run of the maglev train. The fidelity of the results obtained using the extracted FI sequence and using the raw monitoring data are compared. The superiority of the proposed malfunction detection algorithm is also discussed via comparison with the results of the different train speeds.
A Boundary-Type Numerical Procedure to Solve Nonlinear Nonhomogeneous Backward-in-Time Heat Conduction Equations
Authors: Chen Yung-Wei , Shen Jian-Hung , Chang Yen-Shen , Chang Chun-Ming
Published: September 2023

In this paper, an explicit boundary-type numerical procedure, including a constraint-type fictitious time integration method (FTIM) and a two-point boundary solution of the Lie-group shooting method (LGSM), is constructed to tackle nonlinear nonhomogeneous backward heat conduction problems (BHCPs). Conventional methods cannot effectively overcome numerical instability to solve inverse problems that lack initial conditions and take a long time to calculate, even using different variable transformations and regularization techniques. Therefore, an explicit-type numerical procedure is developed from the FTIM and the LGSM to avoid numerical instability and numerical iterations. First, a two-point boundary solution of the LGSM is introduced into the numerical algorithm. Then, the maximum and minimum values of the initial guess value can be determined linearly from the boundary conditions at the initial and final times. Finally, an explicit-type boundary-type numerical procedure, including a boundary value solution and constraint-type FTIM, can directly avoid the numerical iterative problems of BHCPs. Several nonlinear examples are tested. Based on the numerical results shown, this boundary-type numerical procedure using a two-point solution can directly obtain an approximated solution and can achieve stable convergence to boundary conditions, even if numerical iterations occur. Furthermore, the numerical efficiency and accuracy are better than in the previous literature, even with an increased computational time span without the regularization technique.
A Numerical Approach for Dealing with Fractional Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Al-Nana Abeer A. , Batiha Iqbal M. , Momani Shaher
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes a novel numerical approach for handling fractional boundary value problems. Such an approach is established on the basis of two numerical formulas; the fractional central formula for approximating the Caputo differentiator of order α and the fractional central formula for approximating the Caputo differentiator of order 2α, where 0<α≤1. The first formula is recalled here, whereas the second one is derived based on the generalized Taylor theorem. The stability of the proposed approach is investigated in view of some formulated results. In addition, several numerical examples are included to illustrate the efficiency and applicability of our approach.
Broad Learning Model with a Dual Feature Extraction Strategy for Classification
Authors: Zhang Qi , Ying Zuobin , Zhou Jianhang , Sun Jingzhang , Zhang Bob
Published: September 2023

The broad learning system (BLS) is a brief, flat neural network structure that has shown effectiveness in various classification tasks. However, original input data with high dimensionality often contain superfluous and correlated information affecting recognition performance. Moreover, the large number of randomly mapped feature nodes and enhancement nodes may also cause a risk of redundant information that interferes with the conciseness and performance of the broad learning paradigm. To address the above-mentioned issues, we aim to introduce a broad learning model with a dual feature extraction strategy (BLM_DFE). In particular, kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) is applied to process the original input data before extracting effective low-dimensional features for the broad learning model. Afterwards, we perform KPCA again to simplify the feature nodes and enhancement nodes in the broad learning architecture to obtain more compact nodes for classification. As a result, the proposed model has a more straightforward structure with fewer nodes and retains superior recognition performance. Extensive experiments on diverse datasets and comparisons with various popular classification approaches are investigated and evaluated to support the effectiveness of the proposed model (e.g., achieving the best result of 77.28%, compared with 61.44% achieved with the standard BLS, on the GT database).
Soft ω-θ-Continuous and Soft Weakly θω-Continuous Mappings
Authors: Ghour Samer Al , Al-Saadi Hanan
Published: September 2023

Soft ω-θ-continuity and soft weak-θω-continuity as two new concepts of continuity are presented and investigated. The investigation of the links between these forms of soft mappings and their general topological relatives is given. With the help of examples, it is investigated that soft ω-θ-continuity lies strictly between soft θ-continuity and soft weak-continuity, while soft weak-θω-continuity lies strictly between soft continuity (i.e., soft θω-continuity) and soft weak-continuity. A number of conditions for the equivalence between soft ω-θ-continuity and soft weak continuity (i.e., soft ω-θ-continuity and soft θ-continuity, soft weak-θω-continuity and soft weak-continuity, soft weak-θω-continuity and soft continuity) are obtained. Additionally, soft θ-closure and soft θω-closure operators are used to characterize our new types of soft mappings.
Comparative Analysis of the Particle Swarm Optimization and Primal-Dual Interior-Point Algorithms for Transmission System Volt/VAR Optimization in Rectangular Voltage Coordinates
Authors: Mataifa Haltor , Krishnamurthy Senthil , Kriger Carl
Published: September 2023

Optimal power flow (OPF) is one of the most widely studied problems in the field of operations research, as it applies to the optimal and efficient operation of the electric power system. Both the problem formulation and solution techniques have attracted significant research interest over the decades. A wide range of OPF problems have been formulated to cater for the various operational objectives of the power system and are mainly expressed either in polar or rectangular voltage coordinates. Many different solution techniques falling into the two main categories of classical/deterministic optimization and heuristic/non-deterministic optimization techniques have been explored in the literature. This study considers the Volt/VAR optimization (VVO) variant of the OPF problem formulated in rectangular voltage coordinates, which is something of a departure from the majority of the studies, which tend to use the polar coordinate formulation. The heuristic particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the classical primal-dual interior-point method (PDIPM) are applied to the solution of the VVO problem and a comparative analysis of the relative performance of the two algorithms for this problem is presented. Four case studies based on the 6-bus, IEEE 14-bus, 30-bus, and 118-bus test systems are presented. The comparative performance analysis reveals that the two algorithms have complementary strengths, when evaluated on the basis of the solution quality and computational efficiency. Particularly, the PSO algorithm achieves greater power loss minimization, whereas the PDIPM exhibits greater speed of convergence (and, thus, better computational efficiency) relative to the PSO algorithm, particularly for higher-dimensional problems. An additional distinguishing characteristic of the proposed solution is that it incorporates the Newton–Raphson load flow computation, also formulated in rectangular voltage coordinates, which adds to the efficiency and effectiveness of the presented solution method.
Citriquinolinones A and B: Rare Isoquinolinone-Embedded Citrinin Analogues and Related Metabolites from the Deep-Sea-Derived Aspergillus versicolor 170217
Authors: Lin Shui-Hua , Yan Qing-Xiang , Zhang Yong , Wu Tai-Zong , Zou Zheng-Biao , Liu Qing-Mei , Jiang Jia-Yang , Xie Ming-Min , Xu Lin , Hao You-Jia , Liu Zhu , Liu Guang-Ming , Yang Xian-Wen
Published: September 2023

A systematic chemical investigation of the deep-sea-derived fungus Aspergillus versicolor 170217 resulted in the isolation of six new (1–6) and 45 known (7–51) compounds. The structures of the new compounds were established on the basis of exhaustive analysis of their spectroscopic data and theoretical–statistical approaches including GIAO-NMR, TDDFT-ECD/ORD calculations, DP4+ probability analysis, and biogenetic consideration. Citriquinolinones A (1) and B (2) feature a unique isoquinolinone-embedded citrinin scaffold, representing the first exemplars of a citrinin–isoquinolinone hybrid. Dicitrinones K–L (3–4) are two new dimeric citrinin analogues with a rare CH-CH3 bridge. Biologically, frangula-emodin (32) and diorcinol (17) displayed remarkable anti-food allergic activity with IC50 values of 7.9 ± 3.0 μM and 13.4 ± 1.2 μM, respectively, while diorcinol (17) and penicitrinol A (20) exhibited weak inhibitory activity against Vibrio parahemolyticus, with MIC values ranging from 128 to 256 μM.
Bariatric Surgery Reduces Weight Loss, Comorbidities Prevalence, and Improves Quality of Life in the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Arishi Abdulaziz A. , Gosadi Ibrahim Metaan , Hakami Ibrahim Ali , Darraj Hussam , Abusageah Faisal , Hakami Khalid M. , Zaalah Shaden A. , Awaf Mohammed , Maghrabi Rawan , Alamer Afnan A. , Hamdi Sulaiman , Jareebi Mohammad Abdu , Masmali Amro M. , Hakami Ghalia H. , Najmi Weaam A.
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Bariatric surgery has been proposed as a treatment option for type 2 diabetes, but there is limited research on its efficacy and the use of standardized outcome measures. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of bariatric surgery in managing type 2 diabetes and to assess the BAROS protocol postoperatively. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in southern Saudi Arabia, involving 346 bariatric surgery patients aged 18–60. This study collected data through an electronic questionnaire distributed via a Telegram group and Twitter hashtag. Anthropometric data, postoperative complications, and the evolution of obesity-related comorbidities were collected. The quality of life was evaluated using the Moorehead–Ardelt questionnaire of the BAROS protocol. The total BAROS score was classified as “Insufficient”, “Moderate”, “Good”, “Very good”, or “Excellent”, considering the presence of comorbidities. The data were analyzed using SPSS software ver.23. Results: The mean age of the participants was 30.97 ± 8.49 years, and 70.81% were female. Sleeve Vertical Gastrectomy was the most common surgical technique used (n = 336). The excess weight loss percentage (EWL%) was 70.55 ± 22.57%, and 27.75% of participants achieved complete remission of type 2 diabetes. The total BAROS score was “Excellent” for 40.17% of participants and “Moderate” for 27.16%. The presence of comorbidities was negatively correlated with the BAROS score (r = −0.651, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Bariatric surgery effectively manages type 2 diabetes with a high rate of EWL% and complete remission. The BAROS protocol is a valuable tool for assessing the quality of life postoperatively, with most participants achieving a “Moderate” to “Excellent” score. Comorbidities negatively impact the BAROS score, highlighting the importance of managing these conditions postoperatively.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Epidemiological Features of Spinal Cord Injury in Wuhan, China: A Comparative Study in Different Time Periods
Authors: Altahla Ruba , Alshorman Jamal , Tao Xu
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe affliction that can have a profound impact on a person’s ability to move and feel, affecting a significant number of individuals. However, rehabilitation after SCI treatment remains a critical method to improve motor–sensory functions, which improves the patient’s quality of life. This study aims to describe the epidemiological profile of SCI during the COVID-19 pandemic (“COVID-19 period”) and before and after the COVID-19 pandemic (“non-COVID-19 period”) in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. Materials and Methods: Medical records of 93 patients diagnosed with SCI admitted to the rehabilitation department of Wuhan Tongji Hospital from January 2019 to May 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Basic demographics and clinical characteristics such as level of injury, American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale, treatment method, and concomitant injuries were analyzed. Results: Forty patients with SCI from the non-COVID-19 period and fifty-three patients from the COVID-19 period were identified. The mean ages were 38.80 ± 17.71 and 44.53 ± 13.27 years, respectively, with a consistent male-to-female ratio of 2:1 across both periods. Notably, falls accounted for the most prevalent mechanism of injury, constituting 50% of cases during the non-COVID-19 period and 37.74% during the COVID-19 period. The most common initial ASIA grade was B in the non-COVID-19 period and grade C in the COVID-19 period. In addition, the final ASIA grade after treatment was grade C in the non-COVID-19 period and grade D in the COVID-19 period. Conclusions: A greater proportion of males suffer from SCI, and the primary causes are falls and traffic accidents. Workers are the most vulnerable group to SCI among all patients. Prevention strategies should be customized based on the unique characteristics of SCI patients. This study highlights the importance of SCI rehabilitation.
Identification of the Remains of an Adult Using DNA from Their Deciduous Teeth as a Reference Sample
Authors: Chávez-Briones María-de-Lourdes , Jaramillo-Rangel Gilberto , Ancer-Arellano Adriana , Ancer-Rodríguez Jesús , Ortega-Martínez Marta
Published: September 2023

In many forensic cases, the identification of human remains is performed by comparing their genetic profile with profiles from reference samples of relatives, usually the parents. Here, we report, for the first time, the identification of the remains of an adult using DNA from the person’s deciduous teeth as a reference sample. Fragments of a skeletonized and burned body were found, and a short tandem repeat (STR) profile was obtained. A woman looking for her missing son went to the authorities. When the DNA profile of the woman was compared to a database, a positive match suggested a first-degree kinship with the person to whom the remains belonged. The woman had kept three deciduous molars from her son for more than thirty years. DNA typing of dental pulp was performed. The genetic profiles obtained from the molars and those from the remains coincided in all alleles. The random match probability was 1 in 2.70 × 1021. Thus, the remains were fully identified. In the routine identification of human remains, ambiguous STR results may occur due to the presence of null alleles or other mutational events. In addition, erroneous results can be produced by false matches with close family members or even with people who are completely unrelated to the victim, such that, in some cases, a probability of paternity greater than 99.99% does not necessarily indicate biological paternity. Whenever possible, it is preferable to use reference samples from the putative victim as a source of DNA for identification.
COVID-19 and Gastrointestinal Tract: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Manifestations
Authors: Vernia Filippo , Ashktorab Hassan , Cesaro Nicola , Monaco Sabrina , Faenza Susanna , Sgamma Emanuele , Viscido Angelo , Latella Giovanni
Published: September 2023

Background: Since its first report in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, COVID-19 has become a pandemic, affecting millions of people worldwide. Although the virus primarily affects the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal symptoms are also common. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal COVID-19. Methods: We conducted a systematic electronic search of English literature up to January 2023 using Medline, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, focusing on papers that analyzed the role of SARS-CoV-2 in the gastrointestinal tract. Results: Our review highlights that SARS-CoV-2 directly infects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, anorexia, loss of taste, and increased liver enzymes. These symptoms result from mucosal barrier damage, inflammation, and changes in the microbiota composition. The exact mechanism of how the virus overcomes the acid gastric environment and leads to the intestinal damage is still being studied. Conclusions: Although vaccination has increased the prevalence of less severe symptoms, the long-term interaction with SARS-CoV-2 remains a concern. Understanding the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and the gastrointestinal tract is essential for future management of the virus.
Invasive Diagnostic Procedures from Bronchoscopy to Surgical Biopsy—Optimization of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Samples for Molecular Testing
Authors: Lalić Nensi , Lovrenski Aleksandra , Ilić Miroslav , Ivanov Olivera , Bojović Marko , Lalić Ivica , Popević Spasoje , Stjepanović Mihailo , Janjić Nataša
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Treatment of advanced lung cancer (LC) has become increasingly personalized over the past decade due to an improved understanding of tumor molecular biology and antitumor immunity. The main task of a pulmonologist oncologist is to establish a tumor diagnosis and, ideally, to confirm the stage of the disease with the least invasive technique possible. Materials and Methods: The paper will summarize published reviews and original papers, as well as published clinical studies and case reports, which studied the role and compared the methods of invasive pulmonology diagnostics to obtain adequate tumor tissue samples for molecular analysis, thereby determining the most effective molecular treatments. Results: Bronchoscopy is often recommended as the initial diagnostic procedure for LC. If the tumor is endoscopically visible, the biopsy sample is susceptible to molecular testing, the same as tumor tissue samples obtained from surgical resection and mediastinoscopy. The use of new sampling methods, such as cryobiopsy for peripheral tumor lesions or cytoblock obtained by ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA), enables obtaining adequate small biopsies and cytological samples for molecular testing, which have until recently been considered unsuitable for this type of analysis. During LC patients’ treatment, resistance occurs due to changes in the mutational tumor status or pathohistological tumor type. Therefore, the repeated taking of liquid biopsies for molecular analysis or rebiopsy of tumor tissue for new pathohistological and molecular profiling has recently been mandated. Conclusions: In thoracic oncology, preference should be given to the least invasive diagnostic procedure providing a sample for histology rather than for cytology. However, there is increasing evidence that, when properly processed, cytology samples can be sufficient for both the cancer diagnosis and molecular analyses. A good knowledge of diagnostic procedures is essential for LC diagnosing and treatment in the personalized therapy era.
Inflammation Markers in Patients with Bipolar Disorder Who Have Committed Offenses and Their Relationship with Criminal Behavior
Authors: Sırlıer Emir Burcu , Yıldız Sevler , Kazğan Kılıçaslan Aslı , Kurt Osman , Uğur Kerim , Tabara Muhammed Fatih , Aydın Süleyman
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to examine the function of various inflammation parameters and their interactions in the pathology of Bipolar disorder (BD) and to assess whether they could be biomarkers in the relationship between criminal behavior and BD. Materials and Methods: Overall, 1029 participants, including 343 patients with BD who have committed offenses, 343 nonoffending patients with BD, and 343 healthy controls, were included in this retrospective study. Neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and platelet counts; high-density lipoprotein (HDL-c) levels; systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), neutrophil to high-density lipoprotein ratio (NHR), lymphocyte to high-density lipoprotein ratio (LHR), monocyte to high-density lipoprotein ratio (MHR), platelet to high-density lipoprotein ratio (PHR) were measured. Results: Significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of SII, SIRI, NHR, LHR, MHR, PHR, neutrophil, and monocyte values (p < 0.001). The lymphocyte counts were significantly higher in the patients with BD who committed offenses (p = 0.04). The platelet counts were significantly lower in the patients with BD who committed offenses compared to nonoffending patients with BD (p = 0.015). The HDL-c levels were significantly lower in the patients with BD who have committed offenses than those of nonoffending patients with BD (p < 0.001). Bipolar disorder, not receiving active psychiatric treatment, having a diagnosis of bipolar manic episodes, and having low platelet and HDL values constitute a risk of involvement in crime. Conclusions: The present study emphasizes the role of systemic inflammation in the pathophysiology of patients with BD with and without criminal offenses and the relationship between inflammation and criminal behavior.
Blood and Salivary Cortisol Variations in Athletes in Relation to Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
Authors: Honceriu Cezar , Roca Mihai , Costache Alexandru Dan , Abălașei Beatrice , Popescu Lucian , Puni Alexandru Rareș , Maștaleru Alexandra , Oancea Andra , Drugescu Andrei , Adam Cristina , Mitu Ovidiu , Costache Irina-Iuliana , Leon Maria Magdalena , Roca Iulia Cristina , Mocanu Veronica , Mitu Florin
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Cortisol is a valuable marker for assessing the body’s response to any form of stress. We conducted this study in order to evaluate the variations of salivary and serum cortisol levels in professional football players in relation to cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and their significance in potentially evaluating overtraining in athletes. Also, the question of whether salivary cortisol determination could fully substitute serum sampling was addressed. Materials and Methods: A total of 19 male professional football players were evaluated by measuring serum cortisol levels at rest (T0) and immediately after a CPET (T1) and salivary cortisol levels at rest (T0), 10 min after a CPET (T2), and 30 min after a CPET (T3). Results: T0 serum cortisol showed a statistically significant correlation with the oxygen uptake at the anaerobic threshold divided by the body weight (VO2-AT/weight), as did the T2 salivary cortisol with the maximum oxygen uptake at the anaerobic threshold (VO2-AT) and VO2-AT/weight. T0 salivary cortisol was significantly correlated with the subjects’ height and the predicted O2 pulse. Conclusions: While some correlations were discovered, they are insufficient to recommend cortisol as a routine biomarker in athletes’ evaluation. However, significant correlations were established between salivary and serum determinations, meaning that the non-invasive procedure could substitute venous blood sampling.