bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Trends in Isothermal Near-Net-Shape Forming Process of High-Performance Titanium Alloys
Authors: Chu Shuangjie , Huang Weiwei , Liang Gaofei , Meng Qingtong , Zhou Xiangyu , Mao Bo
Published: January 2025

Titanium alloys find extensive applications in aviation, maritime, and chemical engineering applications. Nonetheless, these alloys encounter significant challenges during the conventional forging process, which include high deformation resistance, limited processing temperature ranges, and inhomogeneous microstructure. Isothermal forging, as a near-net-shape forming technique, can alleviate the microstructural inhomogeneity caused by deformation dead zones in conventional forging, thus enabling the direct production of complex shapes. This process enhances the overall performance and utilization of materials while reducing manufacturing costs. This paper comprehensively reviews how isothermal near-net-shape forging process parameters influence the intricate microstructure and essential properties of titanium alloys. The unique properties of isothermal forging applied to high-performance titanium alloys are also discussed in depth, and the intricate interplay between process parameters and the microstructure and properties of recoloration is clarified. That is to say, temperature is a vital element influencing the phases and microstructure of titanium alloys during the forming process. Grain size, microstructural homogeneity, and phase transformation are influenced by the strain rate, thereby affecting the plasticity, fracture toughness, and strength of titanium alloys. The extent of deformation significantly governs the grain size, the thickness of secondary α phase, dynamic recrystallization, and primary α phase. Cooling rate affects the grain size and precipitates, contributing to grain refinement. The frequency of isothermal forging affects the grain refinement and microstructural uniformity of titanium alloys. Finally, this paper summarizes the scientific questions that remain unresolved in this field and outlines future research directions to promote the further development of isothermal near-net-shape forging processes and facilitate the broader industrial applications of high-performance titanium alloys and other difficult-to-form alloys.
Editorial for “Mechanical Behavior of Concrete Materials and Structures: Experimental Evidence and Analytical Models (Volume II)”
Authors: De Domenico Dario , Bernardo Luís Filipe Almeida
Published: January 2025

Concrete represents one of the most popular materials employed in the civil engineering sector due to its flexibility and adaptability to multiple applications, ranging from non-structural elements and partition walls to structural elements and load-bearing members [...]
A Review of the Applications and Challenges of Dielectric Elastomer Actuators in Soft Robotics
Authors: Zhang Qinghai , Yu Wei , Zhao Jianghua , Meng Chuizhou , Guo Shijie
Published: January 2025

As an electrically driven artificial muscle, dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are notable for their large deformation, fast response speed, and high energy density, showing significant potential in soft robots. The paper discusses the working principles of DEAs, focusing on their reversible deformation under electric fields and performance optimization through material and structural innovations. Key applications include soft grippers, locomotion robots (e.g., multilegged, crawling, swimming, and jumping/flying), humanoid robots, and wearable devices. The challenges associated with DEAs are also examined, including the actuation properties of DE material, material fatigue, viscoelastic effects, and environmental adaptability. Finally, modeling and control strategies to enhance DEA performance are introduced, with a perspective on future technological advancements in the field.
Decentralized Energy Swapping for Sustainable Wireless Sensor Networks Using Blockchain Technology
Authors: Draz Umar , Ali Tariq , Yasin Sana , Hijji Mohammad , Ayaz Muhammad , Aggoune EL-Hadi M.
Published: January 2025

Wireless sensor networks deployed in energy-constrained environments face critical challenges relating to sustainability and protection. This paper introduces an innovative blockchain-powered safe energy-swapping protocol that enables sensor nodes to voluntarily and securely trade excess energy, optimizing usage and prolonging lifespan. Unlike traditional centralized management schemes, the proposed approach leverages blockchain technology to generate an open, immutable ledger for transactions, guaranteeing integrity, visibility, and resistance to manipulation. Employing smart contracts and a lightweight Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism, computational and power costs are minimized, making it suitable for WSNs with limited assets. The system is built using NS-3 to simulate node behavior, energy usage, and network dynamics, while Python manages the blockchain architecture, cryptographic security, and trading algorithms. Sensor nodes checked their power levels and broadcast requests when energy fell under a predefined threshold. Neighboring nodes with surplus power responded with offers, and intelligent contracts facilitated secure exchanges recorded on the blockchain. The Proof-of-Stake-based consensus process ensured efficient and secure validation of transactions without the energy-intensive need for Proof-of-Work schemes. The simulation results indicated that the proposed approach reduces wastage and significantly boosts network resilience by allowing nodes to remain operational longer. A 20% increase in lifespan is observed compared to traditional methods while maintaining low communication overhead and ensuring secure, tamper-proof trading of energy. This solution provides a scalable, safe, and energy-efficient answer for next-generation WSNs, especially in applications like smart cities, precision agriculture, and environmental monitoring, where autonomy of energy is paramount.
Generalized Inference for Mediation Analysis
Authors: Ma Xiaoyang , MacKinnon David P. , Mathew Thomas , Agan Brian , Luta George , Bebu Ionut
Published: January 2025

Mediation analysis has a long history and its use in applied research has been increasing. Studying mediators can help improve our understanding of mechanisms relating independent and dependent variables. The objective of this paper is to compare different methods to construct confidence intervals for the mediation effect for the one-mediator and two-mediator models. For the one-mediator model, we evaluated the generalized pivotal quantity (GPQ) method, the PRODCLIN method, bootstrap methods, the Sobel method, the Goodman method, and the Monte Carlo method. For the two-mediator model, we evaluated a new GPQ method, bootstrap methods, the Sobel method, the Goodman method, and the Monte Carlo method. Simulation studies compared the performance of the methods for sample sizes of 50, 100, and 200. The results of the simulation studies indicated that, for the simple traditional mediation models under consideration, the GPQ method performed well when compared with the other methods. Future work should consider the extension of the GPQ method to causal mediation analysis involving more complex models with multiple mediators.
Ribbonness of a Stable-Ribbon Surface-Link, II: General Case
Authors: Kawauchi Akio
Published: January 2025

It is shown that any handle-irreducible summand of every stable-ribbon surface-link is a unique ribbon surface-link up to equivalences so that every stable-ribbon surface-link is a ribbon surface-link. This is a generalization of a previously observed result for a stably trivial surface-link. Two observations are given. One observation is that a connected sum of two surface-links is a ribbon surface-link if and only if both the connected summands are ribbon surface-links. The other observation is a characterization of when a surface-link consisting of ribbon surface-knot components becomes a ribbon surface-link.
Boundedness of Bessel–Riesz Operator in Variable Lebesgue Measure Spaces
Authors: Nasir Muhammad , Raza Ali , Cotîrlă Luminiţa-Ioana , Breaz Daniel
Published: January 2025

In this manuscript, we establish the boundedness of the Bessel–Riesz operator Iα,γf in variable Lebesgue spaces Lp(·). We prove that Iα,γf is bounded from Lp(·) to Lp(·) and from Lp(·) to Lq(·). We explore various scenarios for the boundedness of Iα,γf under general conditions, including constraints on the Hardy–Littlewood maximal operator M. To prove these results, we employ the boundedness of M, along with Hölder’s inequality and classical dyadic decomposition techniques. Our findings unify and generalize previous results in classical Lebesgue spaces. In some cases, the results are new even for constant exponents in Lebesgue spaces.
RMD-Net: A Deep Learning Framework for Automated IHC Scoring of Lung Cancer IL-24
Authors: He Zihao , Jia Dongyao , Shi Yinan , Li Ziqi , Wu Nengkai , Zeng Feng
Published: January 2025

Immunohistochemical (IHC) detection is crucial in diagnosing lung cancer. Interleukin-24 (IL-24) is a valuable marker in IHC analysis, aiding in tumor characterization and prognostication. However, current manual scoring methods are labor-intensive, imprecise, and subjective, leading to inconsistencies among observers. Automated scoring methods also have limitations, such as poor segmentation and lack of interpretability. In this paper, we introduce RMD-Net, a novel scoring network framework specifically designed for IL-24 scoring in lung cancer. The framework incorporates a regional attention mechanism and a multi-channel scoring network. Initially, diagnostic region identification and segmentation are accomplished by integrating the diagnostic regional spatial attention module into the fully convolutional network. Subsequently, we employ the Adaptive Multi-Thresholding algorithm to derive expert, strong feature description maps. Finally, the attention-guided IHC images and expert feature description maps are fed into a multi-channel scoring network. Its backbone includes feature fusion layers and scoring layers to ensure the accuracy and interpretability of the final result. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first system that directly employs lung cancer IL-24 IHC images as input and combines both expert-derived features and deep-learning abstract features to produce clinical scores. Our dataset is sourced from the Institute of Life Sciences and Bioengineering at Beijing Jiaotong University. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves an IL-24 score precision of 89.25%, an F1 score of 89.00, and an accuracy of 95.94%, outperforming other state-of-the-art methods. This contribution has the potential to advance clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies for lung cancer.
Multi-Objective Optimization in Disaster Backup with Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Yi Shanwen , Qin Yao , Wang Hua
Published: January 2025

Disaster backup, which occurs over long distances and involves large data volumes, often leads to huge energy consumption and the long-term occupation of network resources. However, existing work in this area lacks adequate optimization of the trade-off between energy consumption and latency. We consider the one-to-many characteristic in disaster backup and propose a novel algorithm based on multicast and reinforcement learning to optimize the data transmission process. We aim to jointly reduce network energy consumption and latency while meeting the requirements of network performance and Quality of Service. We leverage hybrid-step Q-Learning, which can more accurately estimate the long-term reward of each path. We enhance the utilization of shared nodes and links by introducing the node sharing degree in the reward value. We perform path selection through three different levels to improve algorithm efficiency and robustness. To simplify weight selection among multiple objectives, we leverage the Chebyshev scalarization function based on roulette to evaluate the action reward. We implement comprehensive performance evaluation with different network settings and demand sets and provide an implementation prototype to verify algorithm applicability in a real-world network structure. The simulation results show that compared with existing representative algorithms, our algorithm can effectively reduce network energy consumption and latency during the data transmission of disaster backup while obtaining good convergence and robustness.
Exploring Phaeodactylum tricornutum for Nutraceuticals: Cultivation Techniques and Neurotoxin Risk Assessment
Authors: Ebbing Tobias , Kopp Lena , Frick Konstantin , Simon Tabea , Würtz Berit , Pfannstiel Jens , Schmid-Staiger Ulrike , Bischoff Stephan C. , Tovar Günter E. M.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the potential of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum (PT) as a sustainable and nutritionally valuable food source, focusing on its ability to produce bioactive compounds such as eicosapentaenoic acid, fucoxanthin, chrysolaminarin (CRY) and proteins. PT was cultivated in a flat-plate airlift photobioreactor (FPA-PBR) illuminated with LEDs from two sides. The study aimed to monitor and minimize β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) levels to address safety concerns. The data showed that the selected FPA-PBR setup was superior in biomass and EPA productivity, and CRY production was reduced. No BMAA was detected in any biomass sample during cultivation. By adjusting the cultivation conditions, PT biomass with different compositional profiles could be produced, enabling various applications in the food and health industries. Biomass from nutrient-repleted conditions is rich in EPA and Fx, with nutritional and health benefits. Biomass from nutrient-depleted conditions accumulated CRY, which can be used as dietary fiber. These results highlight the potential of PT as a versatile ingredient for human consumption and the effectiveness of FPA-PBRs with artificial lighting in producing high-quality biomass. This study also provides the basis for future research to optimize photobioreactor conditions to increase production efficiency and to tailor the biomass profiles of PT for targeted health-promoting applications.
Effects of Recreational Football on Bone Mineral Density and Isokinetic Muscle Strength in Elderly Men: A Study of Turkish Older Men
Authors: Polat Cemal , Unveren Alparslan , Ertan Hayri , Migliaccio Gian Mario , Pancar Zarife , Russo Luca
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Recreational football (RF) as a community activity can provide a positive transformative effect on the musculoskeletal systems necessary for the self-care and independent life demands of older adults when designed with a geriatric approach, in addition to its psycho-social benefits. However, studies investigating the potential value of these practices in older adults living in different ecosystems are needed. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of RF on bone mineral density (BMD) and knee isokinetic muscle strength (KIMS) at angular velocities of 60°/s−1 and 120°/s−1 in older adult men. Material and Methods: A total of 57 elderly men (65.5 ± 2.7 years) were randomly divided into a football group (FG; n = 28) and a control group (CG; n = 29). The FG participated in 28 sessions of training, twice a week. Participants were evaluated using the DEXA and IsoMed 2000. The groups, their pre-test–post-test time differences, and group*time interactions were analyzed by mixed design ANOVA. Results: The results were analyzed considering a p < 0.05 significance level. There was no observed statistically significant difference between the groups for bone mineral density values (p > 0.078), but there was an observed statistically significant difference in the FG group*time interaction (F = 7.009, p < 0.009, η2p = 0.060). There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the peak torque flexion and peak torque extension values at 60°/s−1 angular velocity, respectively (p < 0.002, p < 0.011). At 120°/s−1 angular velocity, peak torque flexion and extension, total work flexion and extension, and peak power flexion and extension showed statistically significant differences between the groups, respectively (p < 0.001, p < 0.0027; p < 0.003, p < 0.025; p < 0.001, p < 0.009). Conclusions: These results suggest that RF interventions provide positive biochemical and morphological adaptations in bone mineral density and lower extremity muscle groups, making older adults both more resistant to potential risks and encouraging exercise as a way of life with its autotelic flow structure.
The Role of Continuous Monitoring of Venous Drainage Flow and Integrated Oxygen Extraction (ERiO2) via Bilateral Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Cerebral Perfusion During Aortic Arch Surgery
Authors: Condello Ignazio , Speziale Giuseppe , Fiore Flavio , Nasso Giuseppe
Published: January 2025

Background and Objective: Effective cerebral perfusion monitoring is essential in aortic arch surgery, particularly when employing the Kazui technique under moderate hypothermia. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) provides real-time regional oxygen saturation (rSO2) measurements, while the continuous monitoring of venous drainage flow and oxygen extraction ratio (ERiO2) delivers additional insights into cerebral oxygenation and metabolic balance. This study investigates the correlation between NIRS-derived rSO2, venous drainage flow, and ERiO2 during selective antegrade cerebral perfusion (SACP) to better understand their interplay and clinical significance. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data from 10 patients undergoing aortic arch surgery with the Kazui technique, including 4 patients with type I A dissections and 6 with aortic arch aneurysms. Bilateral NIRS (Masimo system) was used to measure rSO2, while venous drainage flow and ERiO2 were continuously monitored using the Landing system. Intraoperative parameters such as cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, cooling and rewarming duration, venous return flow, and perfusion delivery rates were collected and analyzed. The correlations between rSO2, venous drainage flow, and ERiO2 were statistically evaluated. Results: The mean CPB time was 182 ± 15 min, with a mean cross-clamp time of 98 ± 12 min. Cooling to 20 °C was achieved in 29 ± 3 min, followed by a controlled rewarming phase of 10 ± 1.5 min. The venous return flow averaged 570 ± 25 mL/min, while the perfusion delivery rates exceeded 600 ± 30 mL/min. Bilateral NIRS monitoring revealed stable rSO2 values averaging 65 ± 5%, while ERiO2 averaged 28 ± 4%. A strong correlation (r = 0.91, p < 0.01) was observed between rSO2 and ERiO2, with venous drainage flow playing a critical role in maintaining this relationship. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a robust correlation between NIRS-derived rSO2, continuous venous drainage flow, and ERiO2 during SACP in aortic arch surgery.
Use of Ultra-Hydrophilic Absorbable Polysaccharide for Bleeding Control in Cardiothoracic Surgical Procedures
Authors: Rosenzweig Dow , Lamm Peter , Schmitz Christoph , Vogt Ferdinand
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Operative blood loss is strongly correlated with morbidity and mortality in surgery. Various hemostatic agents are used to reduce bleeding in cardiothoracic procedures. We report our experience with a plant-based microporous polysaccharide hemostatic powder (Starsil® Hemostat, Hemostat Medical GmbH, Velen, Germany). Materials and Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from 65 patients who underwent cardiac surgery at our institution from January 2012 to January 2015 with (n = 42) or without (n = 23; control group) the use of the hemostat powder. Primary endpoints were safety (e.g., laboratory parameters, adverse events, and infection parameters) and time to hemostasis when the hemostat powder was used. Other endpoints included operation time, hospitalization, quantity of the hemostat powder applied, and length of stay in the intensive care unit. Results: The 65 patients (49 male:16 female) analyzed in the study underwent 65 cardiothoracic procedures, including off-pump coronary artery bypass grafts (n = 25), on-pump coronary artery bypass grafts (n = 6), valve procedures (n = 6), valve procedures in combination with bypass grafts (n = 7), and others (n = 21). The application of the hemostat powder did not increase adverse events. The laboratory parameters did not exceed the expected range after heart surgery in both groups. The hemostat powder had no significant impact on the laboratory parameters compared to the control group. Blood control was sufficient and was rated by surgeons from good to very good on a visual analog scale (VAS) from 1 (very bad) to 10 (very good) [VAS = 8.3 ± 1.2]. Intraoperative hemostasis was possible in nearly all patients. The hemostat powder led to satisfactory bleeding control within 2 min in 88% of cases. Five patients needed a second 5 g unit of the hemostat powder. Conclusions: The observed parameters between groups did not differ significantly. Therefore, the use of Starsil® Hemostat in cardiothoracic surgery is safe and effective bleeding control was achieved.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose Acetate—HBA/Poly Sulfone Blend for Water Treatment Applications
Authors: Alsulaiman Lamai , Abdel-Naby Abir S. , Alharthi Salha , ALabdullatif Bushra , Al-Dossary Abeer , Al-Mughrabi Wafa , Alqarni Yanallah
Published: January 2025

Cellulose acetate (CA) was chemically modified with p–hydrazinobenzoic acid (HBA) for the fabrication of a CA–HBA polymeric membrane. The CA–HBA was characterized using NMR, UV-Vis, and EDX/SEM techniques. CA–HBA exhibited high hydrophilicity, as it included carboxylic groups as well as the hydroxyl group of the CA glycosidic ring. The HBA moieties increased the hydrophilicity and the number of active sites inside the CA polymeric matrix, but they did not improve the thermal stability of the polymer, as shown by the thermogravimetry (TGA). Polysulfone (PSF) was blended with CA-HBA in various compositions to produce highly thermal and effective membranes for water treatment applications. The fabricated membranes (CA–HBA/PSF) (5:95) (10:90) (15:85) were found to exhibit high thermal stabilities. The CA–HBA/PSF 15:85 membrane exhibited the highest efficiency towards the removal of Cu (II) ions, while the 5:95 membrane exhibited the highest salt rejection (89%).
Fabrication and Characterization of Vapor Gown Carbon Fiber/304L Matrix Stainless Steel Composite by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Wang Peng , Yu Dongli , Xu Zhefeng , Zheng Linxiang , Yu Jinku , Motozuka Satoshi , Zhu Mengying , Fang Zhichao , Sasaki Gen
Published: January 2025

In this paper, VGCF/304L stainless steel composite was prepared using spark plasma sintering (SPS) with 2 vol.% nanocarbon fiber. Then, phase content, grain size, and mechanical properties were evaluated. The results showed that the Vickers hardness of 304L sintered stainless steel and the composite prepared by SPS under the condition of 950 °C for 10 min were 244 HV and 310 HV, respectively, which is an increase of about 27.0%. The yield strength ascended from 587.1 MPa to 890.2 MPa, registering an increase of approximately 51.6%. Concurrently, the ultimate tensile strength rose from 821.5 MPa to 1064.7 MPa, with an approximate increase of 29.6%. This method for improving the mechanical properties of stainless steel is expected to be widely adopted for producing fiber-reinforced metal matrix composites with excellent overall performance.
Magnetic Properties and Thermal Stability of AuCo Alloy Obtained by High-Pressure Torsion
Authors: Tolmachev Timofey P. , Morozov Ilya A. , Petrova Sofya A. , Shishkin Denis A. , Tolmacheva Elena A. , Pilyugin Vitaliy P. , Țălu Ștefan
Published: January 2025

AuCo alloys are promising materials due to their magnetic, magneto-optical and magneto-plasmonic properties. These two metals are characterized by having zero mutual solubility at room temperature, significant differences in their physical and mechanical parameters and positive enthalpy of mixing. In the form of bulk samples, AuCo alloys can be synthesized by high-pressure torsion. In this study, the influence of the thermal conditions of high-pressure torsion synthesis and subsequent annealing procedures on the phase composition, magnetic domain structure and bulk magnetic properties of non-equilibrium AuCo alloys are investigated. Magnetic atomic force microscopy revealed the presence of a different magnetic domain structure in the AuCo alloys after high-pressure torsion synthesis at −193 and 23 °C. Specifically, in the AuCo alloy synthesized after 10 revolutions at 23 °C, a stripe domain structure was formed, whereas, after cryo-deformation, blurred low-contrast domain walls prevailed in the allow. The regularities of the magnetic domain structure were compared with the magnetic response of the bulk sample obtained by vibrating sample magnetometry. It was found that the saturation magnetization was slightly higher for the alloy synthesized at 23 °C, while the coercive force was higher for the AuCo alloy synthesized at −193 °C. Thermal treatment of these alloys leads to an increase in coercivity which doubles and reaches a plateau after annealing at 310 °C after cryo-deformation.
Ultrasonic Resonance Fatigue Testing of 6082 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Dimitrov Diyan M. , Slavov Stoyan D. , Mincheva Desislava Y. , Cavadas Adélio M. S.
Published: January 2025

This study explores the fatigue properties of EN AW-6082-T6 aluminum alloy in the gigacycle range (106–109 cycles), using ultrasonic resonance fatigue testing at 20 kHz in a push–pull mode with a symmetric load cycle (R = −1). A custom-built ultrasonic fatigue machine, developed at TU-Varna, comprising a generator, ultrasonic train (including a high-power transducer, booster, custom-made sonotrode, and specimen), monitoring, data logging systems, and an air-cooling capability, was used for the experiments conducted. A Bezier curve sonotrode, with an amplification ratio of 1:6, was designed and produced for the test. Hourglass-shaped specimens were designed on the base of the dynamic Young’s modulus E = 71.3 GPa, determined through the impulse resonance method (ASTM E1876-01), and validated with FEM analysis for resonance length and stress amplitude. The fatigue testing revealed a fatigue strength reduction of approximately 60 MPa between 106 and 109 cycles. The percentile of failure curves based on a Cactillo–Canteli model fits well with the experimental data and gives a fatigue limit at 109 cycles σl = 104 MPa and “endurance strength” σw = 84 MPa. Surface crack initiation was consistently observed with predominately cleavage transgranular fractures in the fatigue zone. The present research highlights the utility of ultrasonic testing for examining fatigue behavior in the gigacycle regime.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Neonatal Condition Research in Africa: Volume, Impact, Themes, and Collaboration
Authors: Vieira Elizabeth de Sousa
Published: January 2025

Background: The literature has addressed the negative impact of poor neonatal conditions (NCs) across regions. This has drawn attention to the need to improve NCs, particularly in Africa. NCs research can make an important contribution. However, there is no study dedicated to this topic in Africa. A bibliometric analysis of NCs research can assist scientists in planning ongoing and new NCs research and support those involved in developing and implementing strategies to combat poor NCs. Methods: This study used discipline-specific terms to identify articles on NCs published between 2000 and 2019 and indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoS) with at least one African author. A bibliometric analysis was applied to determine the volume, visibility, topics, and collaboration activities related to NCs research. Results: The results show that knowledge on NCs increased between 2000 and 2019; NCs research is concentrated in a few African countries (Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Kenya), and its visibility is below the world average. In general, maternal mortality is the most researched topic and collaborative activities are frequent, mainly international research collaboration (IRC), with the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK) being the main partners (they participated in 57% and 28% of all articles with IRC). The collaboration networks are fragile as 43–67% of all links represent one article in 20 years. Conclusions: Ongoing and new NCs research in Africa should consider the main African players and their partners as important sources of knowledge. There is a need to implement strategies to increase NC knowledge in other African countries, expand and strengthen collaboration networks, and diversify the sources of knowledge.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella Strains Isolated from Chicken Samples in Southern Italy
Authors: Di Taranto Pietro , Petruzzi Fiorenza , Normanno Giovanni , Pedarra Carmine , Occhiochiuso Gilda , Faleo Simona , Didonna Antonella , Galante Domenico , Pace Lorenzo , Rondinone Valeria , Trisolini Carmelinda , Del Sambro Laura , Beverelli Matteo , Catanzariti Roberta , Caruso Marta , Palazzo Lucia , Di Castri Adriana , Parisi Antonio
Published: January 2025

Salmonellosis is one of the most frequent foodborne zoonoses, and the consumption of contaminated poultry meat is considered the main source of Salmonella infections in humans. From 2021 to 2023, 384 chicken samples were collected from retailers in Apulia and Basilicata regions and analysed at the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata (IZSPB) laboratories. The Salmonella isolates were investigated to evaluate their phenotypic characteristics of antimicrobial resistance. A total of 125 (32.55%) samples tested positive for Salmonella spp. Three samples were simultaneously infected with strains of two different serotypes. Strains were classified into nine serotypes. Out of 128 strains, 112 (87.5%) isolates showed multidrug-resistant (MDR) profiles. Moreover, 16 isolates (12.5%) were ESBL producers with MDR profiles. Our data confirm that chicken products are a common source of Salmonella and highlight how S. Infantis was the most prevalent serotype (85.93%). Furthermore, Salmonella isolates showed antimicrobial resistance, which is very worrisome for animals and consumers. The high rate of antibiotic resistance along with the appearance of numerous MDR isolates is considered an actual concern and requires a robust surveillance network in a One Health concept.
The Challenge of Developing a Test to Differentiate Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae Serotypes 9 and 11
Authors: Arnal Bernal José Luis , Fernández Ros Ana Belén , Lacouture Sonia , Bossé Janine T. , Fodor László , Gantelet Hubert , Solans Bernad Luis , Li Yanwen , Langford Paul R. , Gottschalk Marcelo
Published: January 2025

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is a major swine pathogen, classified into 19 serotypes based on capsular polysaccharide (CPS) loci. This study aimed to improve the diagnostic method to differentiate between serotypes 9 and 11, which are challenging to distinguish using conventional serological and molecular methods. A novel qPCR assay based on locked nucleic acid (LNA) probes was developed and validated using a collection of reference strains representing all known 19 serotypes. The assay demonstrated specificity in detecting the nucleotide variation characteristic of the serotype 9 reference strain. However, the analysis of a clinical isolate collection identified discrepancies between LNA-qPCR and serological results, prompting further investigation of the cps and O-Ag loci. Subsequent nanopore sequencing and whole-genome sequencing of a collection of 31 European clinical isolates, previously identified as serotype 9, 11, or undifferentiated 9/11, revealed significant genetic variations in the cps and O-Ag loci. Ten isolates had a cpsF sequence identical to that of the serotype 11 reference strain, while six isolates had single-nucleotide polymorphisms that were unlikely to cause significant coding changes. In contrast, 15 isolates had interruptions in the cpsF gene, distinct from that found in the serotype 9 reference strain, potentially leading to a serotype 9 CPS structure. In the O-Ag loci, differences between serotypes 9 and 11 were minimal, although some isolates had mutations potentially affecting O-Ag expression. Overall, these findings suggest that multiple genetic events can lead to the formation of a serotype 9 CPS structure, hindering the development of a single qPCR assay capable of detecting all cpsF gene mutations. Our results suggest that, currently, a comprehensive analysis of the cpsF gene is necessary to accurately determine whether the capsule of an isolate corresponds to serotype 9 or 11. Although such analyses are feasible with the advent of third-generation sequencing technologies, their accessibility, cost, and time to result limit their use in routine diagnostic applications. Under these circumstances, the designation of the hybrid serovar 9/11 remains a valid approach.
Tackling Infectious Diseases in the Caribbean and South America: Epidemiological Insights, Antibiotic Resistance, Associated Infectious Diseases in Immunological Disorders, Global Infection Response, and Experimental Anti-Idiotypic Vaccine Candidates Against Microorganisms of Public Health Importance
Authors: Justiz-Vaillant Angel , Soodeen Sachin , Gopaul Darren , Arozarena-Fundora Rodolfo , Thompson Reinand , Unakal Chandrashekhar , Akpaka Patrick E.
Published: January 2025

This paper explores various aspects of microbiology and immunology, with a particular focus on the epidemiology and molecular characterisation of infectious diseases in the Caribbean and South America. Key areas of investigation include tuberculosis (TB), experimental vaccines, and bloodborne pathogens. A retrospective study conducted in Jamaica highlights the significance of early HIV screening, timely diagnosis, and inte-grated care. The paper also examines the challenges posed by nosocomial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), emphasising the critical importance of infection control measures. Additionally, it explores the regional microbiome, the global response to infectious diseases, and immune responses in patients with immunodeficiency disorders such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), underscoring their heightened susceptibility to a wide range of infections.
Dry Magnetic Separation and the Leaching Behaviour of Aluminium, Iron, Titanium, and Selected Rare Earth Elements (REEs) from Coal Fly Ash
Authors: Vilakazi Amanda Qinisile , Shemi Alan , Ndlovu Sehliselo
Published: January 2025

Coal fly ash (CFA) is a commercially viable source of alumina comparable to traditional bauxite deposits. Due to its high silica content and alumina in the refractory mullite phase, the most suitable processing technique is the sinter-H2SO4 leach process. However, this process is energy-intensive, has low selectivity for Al, and generates a secondary solid waste residue. To develop a sustainable process that is economically attractive, Al can be extracted with REEs, Ti, and Fe as saleable products, while secondary solid waste is regenerated for further applications to achieve high-value and high-volume utilisation of CFA. This study focused on the potential extraction of selected REEs (Ce, La, Nd, Y, and Sc), Al, Ti, and Fe, using dry magnetic separation and the sinter-H2SO4 leach process. XRD analysis showed that CFA is predominantly amorphous with crystalline mullite, quartz, and magnetite/hematite. Further analysis using SEM-EDS and TIMA showed Al-Si-rich grains as the predominant phase, with discrete REE-bearing grains (phosphates and silicates) and Fe-oxide (magnetite/hematite) grains. Traces of REEs, Ti, Ca, Si, and Fe were also found in the Al-Si-rich grains. Discrete Fe-oxide was recovered using dry magnetic separation, and up to 65.9% Fe was recovered at 1.05 T as the magnetic fraction (MF). The non-magnetic fraction (non-MF) containing quartz, mullite, and amorphous phase was further processed for preliminary leaching studies. The leaching behaviour of Al, Ti, Fe, and the selected REEs was investigated using the direct H2SO4 and sinter-H2SO4 leaching processes. The maximum extraction efficiency was observed using the sinter-H2SO4 leach process at 6 M H2SO4, a 1:5 solid-to-liquid ratio, 70 °C, and a residence time of 10 h, yielding 77.9% Al, 62.1% Fe, 52.3% Ti, and 56.7% Sc extractions. The extraction efficiencies for Ce, La, Nd, and Y were relatively lower at 23.2%, 27.6%, 11.3%, and 11.2%, respectively. Overall, the results demonstrate that the extraction of REEs using the sinter-H2SO4 leach process is strongly influenced by the complex CFA phase composition and the possible formation of insoluble calcium sulphates. Appreciable extraction of Al, Fe, Ti, and Sc was also observed, suggesting a potential two-step leaching process for the extraction of REEs as a feasible option for the industrial recovery of multiple saleable products.
Machine Learning-Based Tectonic Discrimination Using Basalt Element Geochemical Data: Insights into the Carboniferous–Permian Tectonic Regime of Western Tianshan Orogen
Authors: Li Hengxu , Gao Mengqi , Ji Xiaohui , Zhang Zhaochong , Cheng Zhiguo , Santosh M.
Published: January 2025

Identifying the tectonic setting of rocks is essential for gaining insights into the geological contexts in which these rocks were formed, aiding in tectonic plate reconstruction and enhancing our comprehensive understanding of the Earth’s history. The application of machine learning algorithms helps identify complex patterns and relationships between big data that may be overlooked by binary or ternary tectonomagmatic discrimination diagrams based on basalt compositions. In this study, three machine learning algorithms, i.e., Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), were employed to classify the basalts from seven diverse settings, including intraplate basalts, island arc basalts, ocean island basalts, mid-ocean ridge basalts, back-arc basin basalts, oceanic flood basalts, and continental flood basalts. Specifically, for altered and fresh basalt samples, we utilized 22 immobile elements and 35 major and trace elements, respectively, to construct discrimination models. The results indicate that XGBoost demonstrates the best performance in discriminating basalts into seven tectonic settings, achieving accuracies of 85% and 89% for the altered and fresh basalt samples, respectively. A key innovation of our newly developed tectonic discrimination model is the establishment of tailored models for altered and fresh basalts. Moreover, by omitting isotopic features during model construction, the new models offer broader applicability in predicting a wider range of basalt samples in practical scenarios. The classification models were applied to investigate the Carboniferous to Permian evolution in the Western Tianshan Orogen (WTO), revealing that the subduction of Tianshan Ocean ceased at the end of Carboniferous and the WTO evolved into a post-collisional orogenesis during the Permian.
Effect of Different Enzyme Treatments on Juice Yield, Physicochemical Properties, and Bioactive Compound of Several Hybrid Grape Varieties
Authors: Zubaidi Muhamad Alfiyan , Czaplicka Marta , Kolniak-Ostek Joanna , Nawirska-Olszańska Agnieszka
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effects of four enzymatic treatments on the yield, physicochemical properties, and bioactive compounds of grape juices from two red (Golubok, Regent) and two white (Muscaris, Aurora) hybrid grape varieties. A total of 20 samples were prepared using four commercial enzyme formulations (Pectinex Ultra, Safizym Clear Plus, Safizym Press, and Rapidase color) applied at a concentration of 0.02% (w/w). The juices were evaluated for yield, total phenolic content, antioxidant capacities (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP), titratable acidity, turbidity, total soluble solids, and phenolic profile. The addition of enzymes significantly improved juice yield by 10% to 20%, with the effect varying depending on the type of enzyme and the variety of grapes. Pectinex Ultra was the most effective enzyme in reducing turbidity, while enzyme treatments had minimal impact on Brix levels and sugar concentration, which were primarily determined by the characteristics of each grape variety. The enzyme addition showed a minor influence on the titratable acidity of the juices, with slight increases observed in Muscaris, but the grape variety played a major role in determining the titratable acidity levels. Color parameters revealed that white grape juices (Muscaris and Aurora) were brighter than red varieties (Golubok and Regent). Additionally, enzyme treatments influenced the color, enhancing the red hues in red grape juices. Enzyme treatments also improved the antioxidant capacity of grape juices, especially in Aurora and Muscaris, although the effect on polyphenol content was more dependent on the variety of grapes, with red varieties showing higher levels of polyphenols than white varieties. These findings highlight the significant role of both enzyme treatments and grape variety in determining the quality and health-promoting properties of grape juice.
Current State-of-the-Art and Perspectives in the Design and Application of Vitrimeric Systems
Authors: Pugliese Diego , Malucelli Giulio
Published: January 2025

To fulfill the current circular economy concept, the academic and industrial communities are devoting significant efforts to plastic materials’ end-of-life. Unlike thermoplastics, which are easy to recover and re-valorize, recycling thermosets is still difficult and challenging. Conversely, because of their network structure, thermosetting polymer systems exhibit peculiar features that make these materials preferable for several applications where high mechanical properties, chemical inertness, and thermal stability, among others, are demanded. In this view, vitrimers have quite recently attracted the attention of the scientific community, as they can form dynamic covalent adaptive networks that provide the properties typical of thermosets while keeping the possibility of being processed (and, therefore, mechanically recycled) beyond a certain temperature. This review aims to provide an overview of vitrimers, elucidating their most recent advances and applications and posing some perspectives for the forthcoming years.
Comprehensive Profiling of Illicit Amphetamines Seized in Poland: Insights from Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry and Chemometric Analysis
Authors: Czyż Anna , Pawlak Katarzyna , Waraksa Emilia , Bieńkowski Tomasz
Published: January 2025

The illicit production and distribution of amphetamines present significant challenges to public health and law enforcement, particularly in Europe, where these substances dominate the stimulant market. This study aimed to profile amphetamines consumed within a Polish community by employing gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and chemometric techniques to analyze their chemical composition and associated impurities. The optimized GC-MS methodology facilitated the identification of synthesis markers, precursor origins, and distribution patterns. Impurity profiling provided critical insights into regional production trends, including the use of specific precursors and adulterants. Chemometric analysis further enabled the classification of samples into distinct groups, shedding light on their origins and distribution chains. These findings underscore the potential of extending amphetamine profiling to include distribution-related compounds, offering a powerful tool for tracking production trends and enhancing forensic investigations in the fight against drug trafficking.
Preparation and Properties of Chitosan Complexes Consisting of Artemisia argyi Volatile Oil Nanoemulsion
Authors: Zhang Shun , Zuo Kewei , Zhang Lijun , Zhang Chenlu , Shi Juan
Published: January 2025

Artemisia argyi volatile oil (AAVO) is a kind of natural oil with abundant active components and remarkable medicinal and healthcare value. However, AAVO has low solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Here, to address these issues, a nanoemulsion system of Artemisia argyi volatile oil (AAVO-Ne) is constructed using phase transition titration, and the conditions are continuously optimized to combine it with chitosan, forming a chitosan composite of the volatile oil nanoemulsion (AAVO-NeCs). The structure was analyzed using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and the performance was evaluated through in vitro antibacterial tests, in vitro release experiments, and antioxidant assays. The results indicated that the typical characteristic absorption peaks of AAVO shifted in the AAVO-Ne spectrum and new absorption peaks appeared in the AAVO-NeCs, which implied that the formation of AAVO-NeCs involved not only a physical encapsulation process but also certain chemical interactions, thus enhancing the stability and bioactivity of the composites. Compared to AAVO, AAVO-NeCs exhibited a 1.87-fold increase in antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Meanwhile, the in vitro release study demonstrated that AAVO-NeCs exhibited a biphasic release pattern. Compared to AAVO-Ne and AAVO, AAVO-NeCs also showed a significant enhancement in antioxidant activity. Overall, AAVO-NeCs demonstrate improved solubility and efficacy of AAVO, as well as high-efficiency delivery, antibacterial, sustained-release, and antioxidant properties. These attributes position AAVO-NeCs as a promising candidate for applications in drug delivery, food preservation, and other fields, offering innovative solutions and contributing to the sustainable development of related industries.
Dual-Task Optimization Method for Inverse Design of RGB Micro-LED Light Collimator
Authors: Chen Liming , Li Zhuo , Wang Purui , Wu Sihan , Li Wen , Wang Jiechen , Cao Yue , Mortazavi Masood , Peng Liang , Wu Pingfan
Published: January 2025

Miniaturized pixel sizes in near-eye digital displays lead to pixel emission patterns with large divergence angles, necessitating efficient beam collimation solutions to improve the light coupling efficiency. Traditional beam collimation optics, such as lenses and cavities, are wavelength-sensitive and cannot simultaneously collimate red (R), green (G), and blue (B) light. In this work, we employed inverse design optimization and finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation techniques to design a collimator comprised of nano-sized photonic structures. To alleviate the challenges of the spatial incoherence nature of micro-LED emission light, we developed a strategy called dual-task optimization. Specifically, the method models light collimation as a dual task of color routing. By optimizing a color router, which routes incident light within a small angular range to different locations based on its spectrum, we simultaneously obtained a beam collimator, which can restrict the output of the light emitted from the routing destination with a small divergence angle. We further evaluated the collimation performance for spatially incoherent RGB micro-LED light in an FDTD using a multiple-dipole simulation method, and the simulation results demonstrate that our designed collimator can increase the light coupling efficiency from approximately 30% to 60% within a divergence angle of ±20° for all R/G/B light under the spatially incoherent emission.