bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Two-Stage Optimisation of Ship Hull Structure Combining Fractional Factorial Design Technique and NSGA-II Algorithm
Authors: Abedin Joynal , Franklin Francis , Mahmud S. M. Ikhtiar
Published: February 2024

The intricate nature of ships and floating structures presents a significant challenge for ship designers when determining suitable structural dimensions for maritime applications. This study addresses a critical research gap by focusing on a three-cargo hold model for a multipurpose cargo ship. The complex composition of these structures, including stiffening plates, deck plates, bottom plates, frames, and bulkheads, necessitates thorough structural analysis to facilitate effective and cost-efficient design evaluation. To address this challenge, the research utilises FEMAP-integrated NX NASTRAN software (2021.2) to assess hull girder stress. Furthermore, a novel approach is introduced, integrating the Design of Experiments (DOE) principles within Minitab 21.4.1 software to identify critical parameters affecting hull girder stress and production costs. This method determined the top five key parameters influencing hull girder stress: Hatch coaming plate, Hatch coaming top plate, Main deck plate, Shear strake plate, and Bottom plate, while also highlighting key parameters that impact production costs: the inner bottom plate, Inner side shell plate, Bottom plate, Web frame spacing, and Side shell plate. Ship design optimisation is then carried out by incorporating regression equations from Minitab software into the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II), which is managed using Python software (PyCharm Community Editon 2020.3.1). This optimisation process yields a significant 10% reduction in both ship weight and production costs compared to the previous design, achieved through prudent adjustments in plate thickness, web frame positioning, and stiffener arrangement. The optimally designed midship section undergoes rigorous validation to ensure conformity with industry standards and classification society regulations. Necessary adjustments to inner bottom plates and double bottom side girders are made to meet these stringent requirements. This research offers a comprehensive framework for the structural optimisation of ship hulls, potentially enhancing safety, sustainability, and competitiveness within the maritime engineering industry.
The Complete Genome Sequence of Bacillus toyonensis Cbmb3 with Polyvinyl Chloride-Degrading Properties
Authors: Wang Dandan , Yu Hong , Liu Xinbei , Sun Li , Liu Xijian , Hu Ruilong , Wang Chao , Zhuge Yuping , Xie Zhihong
Published: February 2024

The accumulation of high amounts of plastic waste in the environment has raised ecological and health concerns, particularly in croplands, and biological degradation presents a promising approach for the sustainable treatment of this issue. In this study, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-degrading bacterium was isolated from farmland soil samples attached to waste plastic, utilizing PVC as the sole carbon source. The circular chromosome of the strain Cbmb3, with a length of 5,768,926 bp, was subsequently sequenced. The average GC content was determined to be 35.45%, and a total of 5835 open reading frames were identified. The strain Cbmb3 was designated as Bacillus toyonensis based on phylogenomic analyses and genomic characteristics. The bioinformatic analysis of the Cbmb3 genome revealed putative genes encoding essential enzymes involved in PVC degradation. Additionally, the potential genomic characteristics associated with phytoprobiotic effects, such as the synthesis of indole acetic acid and secondary metabolite synthesis, were also revealed. Overall, the present study provides the first complete genome of Bacillus toyonensis with PVC-degrading properties, suggesting that Cbmb3 is a potential strain for PVC bioremediation and application.
Soil Substrate Characteristics for Planting Hole Greening Technology for High, Steep, Rocky Slope Vegetation in Semi-Arid Areas
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Zhao Tongqian , Nie Xiaojun , Guo Xiaoming , Li Pengbo
Published: February 2024

Soil substrate plays a central role in the vegetation restoration of high and steep slopes, especially in semi-arid regions. This study aims to develop an optimal soil substrate that can provide a favorable environment for the vegetation growth of the high and steep rocky slopes in semi-arid areas. Within the framework of planting hole greening technology, we developed a synthetic substrate comprising base soil, peat, water-retaining and agglomerating agents, biochar, and controlled-release compound fertilizer. We conducted pot experiments to assess the impact of compound additions on soil properties and Parthenocissus himalayana growth. Field tests on exposed, high, and steep rocky slopes in a semi-arid region validated the optimal ratio of substrate components. The results showed that the base soil-to-peat ratio significantly influenced soil density, moisture, pH, organic matter, nitrogen content, and vegetation growth (Ps < 0.05). The controlled-release compound fertilizer significantly affected soil electrical conductivity and alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen content (Ps < 0.05). Meanwhile, the water-retaining agent, biochar, and agglomerating agent had inconsequential effects on soil characteristics and plant growth. The optimal substrate composition included a 7:3 ratio of base soil to peat, 1.5 g/L of water retainer, 10 mg/L of agglomerating agent, 5 g/L of biochar, and 5 g/L of controlled-release compound fertilizer. The field verification showed that the developed optimal substrate possessed desirable pore structure, moisture, and nutrients, resulting in excellent growth of Parthenocissus himalayana. This optimal soil substrate could be suitable for establishing vegetation on high, steep, rocky slopes in semi-arid areas using planting hole greening technology.
The Relationship between Emotional Perception and High-Density Built Environment Based on Social Media Data: Evidence from Spatial Analyses in Wuhan
Authors: Liu Wei , Li Dong , Meng Yuan , Guo Chuanmin
Published: February 2024

The utilization of Social Media Data (SMD) from location-based services offers a wealth of information to analyze changes in human emotional perception influenced by high-density built environments. This study aimed to examine the impact of high-density built environment factors on human emotion perception. First, a set of indicators for high-density built environments was established. Subsequently, Natural Language Processing (NLP) was employed to analyze SMD for sentiment identification and classification. Finally, the Multi-scale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) model was utilized to investigate the spatial differentiation of human emotional perception in high-density built environments. The findings revealed that positive emotions display spatial variations in high-density built environments. Additionally, positive emotions were found to be influenced by multiple variables, with different variables simultaneously affecting individuals’ positive emotions. Specific built environment indicators showed positive correlations with Open Space Ratio (OSR), Green Space Ratio (GSR), POI Functional Density (PFD), and Road Network Density (RND), while negative correlations with Floor Space Index (FSI), Ground Space Index (GSI), Building Average Layer (BAL), Water Index (WI), and Space Syntax Integration (SSI) were observed. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), POI Functional Mixture (PFM), Space Syntax Choice (SSC), and Population Density (PD) exhibited mixed results in different spatial contexts. This research on human perception provides insights for refined urban design and governance, addressing the limitations of top-down approaches in dense urban renewal.
Evolution of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy under Heat Treatment and Multi-Axial Forging
Authors: Du Sijie , Song Yang , He Yiting , Wei Chunhua , Chen Rongyou , Guo Shubo , Liang Wei , Lei Shengyuan , Liu Xiaohong
Published: February 2024

The mechanical properties of various Ti-6Al-4V alloys are influenced by their respective microstructures. This study generated an ultrafine-grain (UFG) Ti-6Al-4V alloy featuring bimodal grain distribution characteristics achieved through initial heat treatment, multi-axial forging (MF), and annealing. The study also extensively examined the evolution process of the alloy’s microstructure. By subjecting the materials to heat treatments at 900 °C with air cooling and 950 °C with air cooling, both materials were found to be consisted of primary α (αp) and transformed β (αs+β) regions with different proportions. Following MF, the sample treated at 900 °C displays a microstructure featuring UFGs of α+β surrounding larger micron-sized αp grains. On the other hand, the sample treated at 950 °C displays a microstructure distinguished by twisted αs lamellar and fragmented β grains surrounding larger micron-sized αp grains. Following annealing, no significant grain growth was observed in the sample. The geometrically necessary dislocations (GNDs) within the UFGs were eliminated, though some GNDs persisted within the αp grains. The samples undergoing the 900 °C heat treatment, MF, and subsequent annealing exhibited elevated strength (1280 MPa) and total elongation (10.7%). This investigation introduces a novel method for designing the microstructure of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy to achieve superior performance.
Porous Polymer Structures with Tunable Mechanical Properties Using a Water Emulsion Ink
Authors: Dantzler Joshua Z. R. , Gomez Sofia Gabriela , Gonzalez Stephanie , Gonzalez Diego , Loera Martinez Alan O. , Marquez Cory , Hassan Md Sahid , Zaman Saqlain , Lopez Alexis , Mahmud Md Shahjahan , Lin Yirong
Published: February 2024

Recently, the manufacturing of porous polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with engineered porosity has gained considerable interest due to its tunable material properties and diverse applications. An innovative approach to control the porosity of PDMS is to use transient liquid phase water to improve its mechanical properties, which has been explored in this work. Adjusting the ratios of deionized water to the PDMS precursor during blending and subsequent curing processes allows for controlled porosity, yielding water emulsion foam with tailored properties. The PDMS-to-water weight ratios were engineered ranging from 100:0 to 10:90, with the 65:35 specimen exhibiting the best mechanical properties with a Young’s Modulus of 1.17 MPa, energy absorption of 0.33 MPa, and compressive strength of 3.50 MPa. This led to a porous sample exhibiting a 31.46% increase in the modulus of elasticity over a bulk PDMS sample. Dowsil SE 1700 was then added, improving the storage capabilities of the precursor. The optimal storage temperature was probed, with −60 °C resulting in great pore stability throughout a three-week duration. The possibility of using these water emulsion foams for paste extrusion additive manufacturing (AM) was also analyzed by implementing a rheological modifier, fumed silica. Fumed silica’s impact on viscosity was examined, revealing that 9 wt% of silica demonstrates optimal rheological behaviors for AM, bearing a viscosity of 10,290 Pa·s while demonstrating shear-thinning and thixotropic behavior. This study suggests that water can be used as pore-formers for PDMS in conjunction with AM to produce engineered materials and structures for aerospace, medical, and defense industries as sensors, microfluidic devices, and lightweight structures.
Improving the Corrosion Performance of Organically Coated Steel Using a Sol–Gel Overcoat
Authors: Watkins Evan , Griffiths Chris M. , Richards Calvin A. J. , Potts Sarah-Jane , Batchelor Chris , Barker Peter , Searle Justin , Jewell Eifion
Published: February 2024

Organically coated steels are widely used in applications in which they are subjected to the natural environment and therefore require excellent corrosion resistance. Organic clearcoats are typically employed as a barrier that improves the overall corrosion resistance; however, they are typically derived from fossil fuel-based feedstock. A more sustainable alternative could be possible using sol–gel coatings. The application of a simple tetraethoxysilane (TEOS)-based sol–gel was applied to polyurethane-coated steels using a spray coater. The concentration of TEOS was altered to produce coatings containing either 2.5% or 10%. The 10% TEOS resulted in dense, homogeneous coatings that offered a significant improvement in corrosion resistance compared to an uncoated substrate. Whereas the 2.5% TEOS coatings were inhomogeneous and porous, which indicated a limitation of concentration required to produce a uniform coating. The successful demonstration of using a simple TEOS-based coating to improve the corrosion resistance of organically coated steel highlights the potential for further investigation into the use of sol–gels for these applications.
Mathematical Simulation of Bio-Heat Transfer in Tissues Having Five Layers in the Presence of a Tumor Zone
Authors: Akulova Dayana V. , Sheremet Mikhail A.
Published: February 2024

A presence of tumor zones within biological tissues can be defined during the analysis of the skin surface temperature. This research is devoted to mathematical simulation of the time-dependent bio-heat transfer in tissues under a tumor influence. The one-dimensional partial differential equation of the Pennes model has been used for description of bio-heat transfer within the biological tissue with five layers, namely, epidermis, papillary dermis, reticular dermis, subcutaneous adipose tissue, and a muscle layer. The formulated boundary-value problem has been solved using the developed in-house computational code based on the finite difference schemes. The developed numerical algorithm has been verified using analytical and numerical solutions of other authors for the simpler test problem. As a result of this study, the temperature distributions have been obtained for the tissue in the presence of tumor zones in different layers of the skin. The influence of five layers of skin on the temperature distribution has been investigated, and the dependence for the skin surface temperature on the tumor zone location has been obtained. The obtained outcomes illustrate the effectiveness of this technique of cancer diagnosis and identify the optimal parameters for its application. Thus, this work represents an important step in the development of cancer diagnosis methods using thermography. The results obtained can be used to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and develop new treatment methods.
An Iterative Method for Computing π by Argument Reduction of the Tangent Function
Authors: Abrarov Sanjar M. , Siddiqui Rehan , Jagpal Rajinder Kumar , Quine Brendan M.
Published: February 2024

In this work, we develop a new iterative method for computing the digits of π by argument reduction of the tangent function. This method combines a modified version of the iterative formula for π with squared convergence that we proposed in a previous work and a leading arctangent term from the Machin-like formula. The computational test we performed shows that algorithmic implementation can provide more than 17 digits of π per increment. Mathematica codes, showing the convergence rate for computing the digits of π, are presented.
Alcoholic Liver Disease/Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Index at Diagnosis Is Associated with All-Cause Mortality during Follow-Up in Patients with Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Cho Minsuk , Rah Woongchan , Song Jason Jungsik , Park Yong-Beom , Lee Sang-Won
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a new index related to chronic liver disease, the alcoholic liver disease/nonalcoholic fatty liver disease index (ANI) at diagnosis, is associated with all-cause mortality during follow-up in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). Materials and Methods: In this study, we included 270 patients with AAV. ANI was calculated using the following equation: ANI = −58.5 + 0.637 (adjusted mean corpuscular volume) + 3.91 (adjusted aspartate transaminase/alanine transaminase) − 0.406 (body mass index) + 6.35 (if male sex). All-cause mortality was defined as death from any cause during follow-up. Results: The median age of the 270 patients with AAV was 61.0 years (34.4% male and 66.6% female). The median ANI was significantly higher in deceased patients than in surviving patients. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, ANI at diagnosis exhibited a statistically significant area under the curve for all-cause mortality during follow-up, and its cut-off was determined to be −0.59. Patients with ANI at diagnosis ≥ −0.59 exhibited a significantly higher risk for all-cause mortality and a significantly lower cumulative patient survival rate than those without. In the multivariable Cox analysis, ANI at diagnosis ≥ −0.59, together with age at diagnosis, was independently associated with all-cause mortality. Conclusions: This study is the first to demonstrate the predictive potential of ANI at diagnosis for all-cause mortality during follow-up in AAV patients without significant chronic liver diseases.
The Impact of the Emotional Disposition of Healthcare Workers on the Expression of Adverse Events after Primary Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Sauserienė Jolanta , Serapinas Danielius , Liseckienė Ida , Budrevičiūtė Aida , Vaičiūnienė Rūta , Gradauskienė Brigita , Tkačiovaitė Ema , Sakalauskaitė Sandra , Valius Leonas
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives: Vaccination is one means of SARS-CoV-2 prevention and control. However, despite the effectiveness of vaccination, adverse reactions continue to require vigilance and monitoring. The researchers emphasize the possibility that some of the reported side effects may be psychological in origin. Based on this hypothesis, the main goal of this study was to evaluate the emotional dispositions of healthcare workers who experienced emotions before vaccination and adverse reactions after vaccination. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted between February and May 2021 in the Kaunas Clinics of the University of Health Sciences. A total of 2117 employees of the clinic departments who were vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer–BioNTech vaccine participated in this study. Statistical analysis was performed on the data using IBM SPSS Statistics®. Results: Most participants (74.5%) experienced systemic (including local) adverse events; 16.5% experienced only local adverse events, and 9.1% experienced no adverse events. The frequency of systemic (including local) adverse events reduced with increasing age (p < 0.05). The main emotions that participants experienced before vaccination were anxiety (37.88%) and happiness (39.02%). Systemic (including local) adverse events occurred 1.26 times more frequently in women than men (77.44% vs. 61.6%, p < 0.05), while local adverse events occurred 1.4 times more often in male participants than in female participants (21.39% vs. 15.27%, p < 0.05). Among the respondents who did not experience adverse events, the most common emotion felt was happiness (25.5%), and most of the participants who experienced systemic (including local) adverse events felt anxiety (42.6%). Conclusions: The information about vaccination and potential adverse events should be targeted at younger persons. It is recommended that women, more than men, should receive professional counseling from psychologists or psychotherapists. The public dissemination of positive messages about the benefits and safety of vaccines prior to a vaccination campaign may alleviate the tension or anxiety felt regarding potential adverse events. Healthcare specialists—both those who work directly with vaccines and those who do not—should maintain a positive psychological attitude towards vaccination, as this can increase patient satisfaction with the benefits of vaccines.
Red Cell Distribution Width as a Predictor of Survival in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Vidili Gianpaolo , Zinellu Angelo , Mangoni Arduino Aleksander , Arru Marco , De Murtas Valentina , Cuccuru Elena , Fancellu Alessandro , Paliogiannis Panagiotis
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the intrahepatic biliary tract cancers are estimated to rank sixth for incidence among solid cancers worldwide, and third for mortality rates. A critical issue remains the need for accurate biomarkers for risk stratification and overall prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of a biomarker of heterogeneity of the size of red blood cells, the red cell distribution width (RDW), to predict survival in patients with HCC. Materials and Methods. A consecutive series of patients with a histologic diagnosis of HCC were included into this study irrespective of their age, stage of the disease, and treatment administered, and followed-up for a period of three years. Demographic, anthropometric [age, sex, body mass index (BMI)], and clinical data (Charlson Comorbidity Index, Child–Pugh score, etc.), along with laboratory tests were retrieved from clinical records. Results. One-hundred and four patients were included in this study. Among them, 54 (69%) were deceased at the end of the follow-up. Higher RDW values, but not other hematological and biochemical parameters, were significantly associated with mortality in both univariate and multivariate analysis. The optimal RDW cut-off value identified with the Youden test for survival was 14.7%, with 65% sensitivity and 74% specificity (AUC  =  0.718, 95% CI 0.622–0.802, p  <  0.001). Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed significantly lower survival with higher RDW values (HR = 3.5204; 95% CI 1.9680–6.2975, p < 0.0001) with a mean survival of 30.9 ± 9.67 months for patients with RDW ≤ 14.7% and 22.3 ± 11.4 months for patients with RDW > 14.7%. Conclusions. The results of our study showed that RDW can perform better than other blood-based biomarkers in independently predicting prognosis in patients with HCC.
Symptomatic Calcifications after Mastectomy: A Rare Case Report with a Review of the Literature
Authors: Žatecký Jan , Coufal Oldřich , Sekret Dobroslav , Peteja Matúš
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Symptomatic calcifications of the breast or skin after breast cancer surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy are a rare entity, with only a few case reports published worldwide, reducing the patient’s quality of life, whilst asymptomatic calcifications are a common finding on imaging methods. Case presentation: Herein, we present a rare case report of calcifications after mastectomy and post-mastectomy radiation therapy causing chronic inflammation with ulceration and fistula formation, with a two-step surgical approach consisting of excision with linear suture and excision with the reconstruction using a thoraco-epigastric flap. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first publication proving the feasibility of this therapy in patients with symptomatic dystrophic calcifications of the skin or the breast. Moreover, the article provides an up-to-date review of published studies about symptomatic calcifications after breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy with a focus on the time of the clinical manifestation from the radiotherapy and the used radiotherapy scheme.
Current Perspectives in Giant Cell Arteritis: Can We Better Connect Pathogenesis and Treatment?
Authors: Opriș-Belinski Daniela , Cobilinschi Claudia Oana , Săulescu Ioana
Published: February 2024

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a large-vessel vasculitis affecting elderly patients and targeting the aorta and its main branches, leading to cranial and extracranial manifestations. The mechanism behind the ischemia is a granulomatous-type inflammation with potentially critical lesions, including visual loss involving the ophthalmic artery. Despite significant progress in unraveling the pathophysiology of this disease, treatment options still rely on glucocorticoids (GCs) to overcome active vascular lesions and disease flares. However, uncertainty still revolves around the optimal dose and tapering rhythm. Few corticosteroid-sparing agents have proven useful in GCA, namely, methotrexate and tocilizumab, benefiting cumulative GC dose and relapse-free intervals. The future looks promising with regard to using other agents like abatacept and Janus-kinase inhibitors or blocking the granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor.
Dentistry: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Minervini Giuseppe
Published: February 2024

In this special issue of Medicina, we delve into the dynamic and ever-evolving world of dentistry, highlighting the remarkable innovations that are shaping the future of oral health and clinical dentistry practice [...]
Heterogenous Grain Nucleation in Al-Si Alloys: Types of Nucleant Inoculation
Authors: Samuel Ehab , Tahiri Hicham , Samuel Agnes M. , Samuel Fawzy H.
Published: February 2024

The objective of the current work is to establish, on the one hand, the conventional mechanisms of grain refining and, on the other hand, the effect of the refining-modification interaction in Sr-modified Al-Si alloys on the achieved grain refining and the modification of eutectic silicon. For this purpose, the hypereutectic alloy A390.1 (~17%Si) was used. Various grain refiners were used, namely, Al-10%Ti, Al-5%Ti-1%B, and Al-4%B. After the preparation of the liquid metal, several concentrations of these master alloys were added to the liquid bath according to the desired objective. The different melts prepared were heated at 750 °C and cast in a preheated graphite mold with a solidification rate of around 0.8 °C/s. The liquid metal was. The presence of strontium (added in the form of Al-10%Sr master alloy) and boron completely affects the microstructure of the alloy. An atom of Sr unites with 6 atoms of B to form a compound whose stoichiometric formula is of the SrB6 type, leading to a significant reduction in the modification. A strong relationship exists between the addition of B and the recovery level of Sr. The affinity between titanium and boron is stronger than the affinity between boron and strontium. Both B and TiB2 phase particles do not react with Si; it is only the Ti part of the Al-Ti-B master that forms (Al, Si)3Ti. Regardless of the amount of Si content in the alloy, the Al-4%B master alloy achieves the best grain refining compared to Ti-containing master alloys.
The Geochemical Characteristics and Environmental Implications of the Paleocene–Eocene in the Jiangling Depression, Southwestern Jianghan Basin
Authors: Yan Kai , Wang Chunlian , Chen Renyi , Wang Jiuyi , Li Ruiqin , Liu Lihong
Published: February 2024

Various isotopic and palynological indicators have shown interspersed periods of aridity and humidity for the late Paleocene to early Eocene in central China, so the paleoclimate conditions remain unclear. This research investigates the environmental characteristics of a saline lake in the Jiangling depression, southwestern Jianghan Basin, from the Paleocene to the Eocene, using bulk-rock geochemistry in a 1280 m sediment core. The ratios of FeO/MnO, Al2O3/MgO, and C-value indicate a semi-humid to semi-arid climate in the early–middle Paleocene. There was a rapid shift to a humid climate during the late Paleocene to early Eocene, following a short time of intense dryness. The Eocene climate was arid, but experienced intermittent humidity. The variation trend of the CIA, CIW and PIA was similar to that of FeO/MnO, Al2O3/MgO, and the C-value, so chemical weathering of the surrounding rocks was controlled by climate change. The lake redox conditions in the Jiangling depression from the Paleocene to the Eocene were reconstructed using the ratios of U/Th, Ni/Co, and V/Cr. During humidity and alternations of aridity and humidity, the lake water received external water input, resulting in weak stratification, so the sediments were in oxidizing conditions. During aridity, lakes become endorheic, leading to sediments forming in reduced conditions. The salinity of the lake in the Jiangling depression from the Paleocene to the Eocene was determined through analysis of sedimentary sequences and the trend of the Sr/Ba ratio. In the early–middle Paleocene, lake salinity varied greatly. From the late Paleocene to the early Eocene, lake salinity decreased. In the Eocene, lake salinity increased and halite precipitated, but lake salinity finally decreased due to a humid climate. During the late Paleocene–early Eocene, the occurrence of multiple humid climates in the Jiangling depression were not merely regional effects. The most significant humidity was caused by a global hyperthermal (PETM), which caused a huge increase in precipitation in the whole of East Asia and even in low latitudes around the world.
Grinding of Australian and Brazilian Iron Ore Fines for Low-Carbon Production of High-Quality Oxidised Pellets
Authors: Zhang Wuju , Zhou Qi , Pan Jian , Zhu Deqing , Yang Congcong
Published: February 2024

Oxidised pellets have become an indispensable high-quality charge for blast furnaces. Nevertheless, high-quality pellet feeds are becoming scarcer and scarcer. To broaden the range of sources of pellet feeds and reduce the production cost of pellets, more steel mills are predicted to use coarse iron ore fines with a relatively low iron grade and low impurities for the preparation of desirable pellet feeds through a typical wet grinding–settling–filtering process. In this work, the grinding, settling and filtering behaviour of Brazilian and Australian iron ore fines are studied and compared, with the aim of discovering the internal relationship between the mineralogical characteristics of different iron ore types and their grinding–settling–filtering performance. Additionally, the effects of ore blending on pellet preparation were investigated. The results show that, usually, the higher the hardness of the iron ore, the more grinding energy is required. Australian and Brazilian ore fines exhibit good grindability, with a Bond work index of about 10–15 kW·h/t. Furthermore, ore blending can reduce grinding energy consumption and improve settling and filtration rates, and the addition of finely ground Australian ores improves the balling performance of pellet mixtures. At the same bentonite content, the ball drop strength of the three blends with added Australian ore is significantly higher than that of the base blend, and the fired pellets obtained from Blend 1, Blend 2 and Blend 3 blends exhibit good metallurgical properties.
Editorial for Special Issue “Functional Graphene-Based Nanodevices”
Authors: Cheng Qijin , Zhou Jian
Published: February 2024

As a typical ultra-thin two-dimensional nanomaterial, graphene has many excellent properties, including, but not limited to, mechanical, optical, thermal and electrical properties [...]
Mechanical Properties of Ti3AlC2/Cu Composites Reinforced by MAX Phase Chemical Copper Plating
Authors: Chen Cong , Zhai Zhenjie , Sun Changfei , Wang Zhe , Li Denghui
Published: February 2024

Among the various reinforcement phases available in Cu-based composites, the unique layered structure and easy diffusion of A-layer atoms make MAX phases more suitable for reinforcing a copper matrix than others. In this study, Cu-coated Ti3AlC2 particles (Cu@Ti3AlC2) were prepared through electroless plating, and Cu@Ti3AlC2/Cu composites were fabricated via vacuum hot-press sintering. The phase composition and microstructure of both Cu@Ti3AlC2 powder and composites were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results demonstrate the creation of successful electroless copper plating to obtain a Cu coating on Ti3AlC2 particles. At 850 °C, a small amount of Ti3AlC2 particles decompose to form TiCx, while Al atoms from the A layer of MAX phase diffuse into the Cu matrix to form a solid solution with Cu(Al). The test results reveal that the density of the Cu@Ti3AlC2/Cu composite reaches 98.5%, with a maximum compressive strength of 705 MPa, which is 8.29% higher than that of the Ti3AlC2/Cu composite. Additionally, the compressive strain reaches 37.6%, representing an increase of 12.24% compared to that exhibited by the Ti3AlC2/Cu composite.
Selective Spin Dewetting for Perovskite Solar Modules Fabricated on Engineered Au/ITO Substrates
Authors: Singh Son , Abdur Rahim , Sheikh Md. Abdul Kuddus , Swain Bhabani Sankar , Song Jindong , Kim Jae-Hun , Nam Ho-Seok , Kim Sung-Hyon , Lee Hyunseung , Lee Jaegab
Published: February 2024

We introduce a novel method for fabricating perovskite solar modules using selective spin-coating on various Au/ITO patterned substrates. These patterns were engineered for two purposes: (1) to enhance selectivity of monolayers primarily self-assembling on the Au electrode, and (2) to enable seamless interconnection between cells through direct contact of the top electrode and the hydrophobic Au connection electrode. Utilizing SAMs-treated Au/ITO, we achieved sequential selective deposition of the electron transport layer (ETL) and the perovskite layer on the hydrophilic amino-terminated ITO, while the hole transport layer (HTL) was deposited on the hydrophobic CH3-terminated Au connection electrodes. Importantly, our approach had a negligible impact on the series resistance of the solar cells, as evidenced by the measured specific contact resistivity of the multilayers. A significant outcome was the production of a six-cell series-connected solar module with a notable average PCE of 8.32%, providing a viable alternative to the conventional laser scribing technique.
Associations between Difficulty in Accessing Maternal and Child Health Services and Stress Responses among Mothers Raising Young Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Japan
Authors: Toyama Noriko , Hokama Chikako , Takahara Misuzu , Toyama Yuko
Published: February 2024

In Japan, maternal and child health (MCH) services were canceled or limited during the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially damaging the mental health of mothers raising young children. This study aimed to examine associations between difficulty in accessing MCH services and various stress responses among such mothers in Japan. An Internet-based questionnaire survey was conducted in November 2022 targeting mothers raising young children who had registered with a Japanese online research company (n = 1032). The questionnaires included items from the Public Health Research Foundation Stress Checklist (Short Form) (PHRF-SCL(SF)), sociodemographic variables, and questions about difficulty accessing MCH services due to COVID-19. Chi-squared tests and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed. In total, 45.7% of mothers experienced difficulty in accessing MCH services due to COVID-19. Mean PHRF-SCL(SF) scores were 4.9 for anxiety, 7.3 for tiredness, 2.8 for autonomic symptoms, and 5.2 for depression. These scores indicated worse stress responses than the general population and mothers raising young children before the COVID-19 pandemic. Mothers who experienced difficulty in accessing MCH services due to COVID-19 were 1.47–1.53 times more likely to be associated with high stress responses (PHRF-SCL(SF) scores). Given the difficulty mothers faced accessing MCH services due to COVID-19 and the negative impact this had, careful follow-up and support are necessary for mothers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Electronic Population Reconstruction from Strong-Field-Modified Absorption Spectra with a Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Richter Daniel , Magunia Alexander , Rebholz Marc , Ott Christian , Pfeifer Thomas
Published: February 2024

We simulate ultrafast electronic transitions in an atom and corresponding absorption line changes with a numerical, few-level model, similar to previous work. In addition, a convolutional neural network (CNN) is employed for the first time to predict electronic state populations based on the simulated modifications of the absorption lines. We utilize a two-level and four-level system, as well as a variety of laser-pulse peak intensities and detunings, to account for different common scenarios of light–matter interaction. As a first step towards the use of CNNs for experimental absorption data in the future, we apply two different noise levels to the simulated input absorption data.
Genetic Diversity Analysis and Core Germplasm Construction of Rubus chingii Hu
Authors: Zhou Ziwei , Liu Fen , Xu Yanqin , Hu Weiming
Published: February 2024

Rubus chingii Hu is the only species that is used for both edible and medicinal purposes among the 194 species of the genus Rubus in China. It is well known for its sweet and sour fresh fruits that are rich in vitamins and for its dried immature fruits that are used to treat kidney-related ailments. This study aims to evaluate genetic diversity and population structure and build a core germplasm repository of 132 R. chingii accessions from the provinces of Jiangxi and Fujian, using Hyper-seq-derived single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. This is the first genetic study of R. chingii based on SNP molecular markers, and a total of 1,303,850 SNPs and 433,159 insertions/deletions (InDels) were identified. Low values for observed heterozygosity, nucleotide diversity (Pi) and fixation indexes (Fis) indicated low genetic diversity within populations, and an analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that 37.4% and 62.6% of the variations were found between populations and within samples, respectively. Four main clusters were identified by means of neighbor-joining (NJ) trees, the ADMIXTURE program and principal component analysis (PCA). Based on the genetic diversity, we finally constructed 38 representative core collections, representing 50% of the total core germplasm samples and 95.3% of the genotypes. In summary, the results of our study can provide valuable information on the genetic structure of R. chingii germplasm resources, which is helpful for further explorations of potential high-quality genes and for formulating future breeding and conservation strategies.
Correction: Haegeman et al. Looking beyond Virus Detection in RNA Sequencing Data: Lessons Learned from a Community-Based Effort to Detect Cellular Plant Pathogens and Pests. Plants 2023, 12, 2139
Authors: Haegeman Annelies , Foucart Yoika , De Jonghe Kris , Goedefroit Thomas , Al Rwahnih Maher , Boonham Neil , Candresse Thierry , Gaafar Yahya Z. A. , Hurtado-Gonzales Oscar P. , Kogej Zwitter Zala , Kutnjak Denis , Lamovšek Janja , Lefebvre Marie , Malapi Martha , Mavrič Pleško Irena , Önder Serkan , Reynard Jean-Sébastien , Salavert Pamblanco Ferran , Schumpp Olivier , Stevens Kristian , Pal Chandan , Tamisier Lucie , Ulubaş Serçe Çiğdem , van Duivenbode Inge , Waite David W. , Hu Xiaojun , Ziebell Heiko , Massart Sébastien
Published: February 2024

In the original publication [...]
Overexpression of cry1c* Enhances Resistance against to Soybean Pod Borer (Leguminivora glycinivorella) in Soybean
Authors: Fang Qingxi , Cao Yingxue , Oo Thinzar Hla , Zhang Chuang , Yang Mingyu , Tang Yuecheng , Wang Meizi , Zhang Wu , Zhang Ling , Zheng Yuhong , Li Wenbin , Meng Fanli
Published: February 2024

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], an essential staple food and oil crop worldwide, boasts abundant vegetable proteins and fats beneficial for both human and animal consumption. However, the soybean pod borer (Leguminivora glycinivorella) (SPB) stands as the most destructive soybean insect pest in northeast China and other northeastern Asian regions, leading to significant annual losses in soybean yield and economic burden. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the introduction of a previously tested codon-optimized cry1c gene, cry1c*, into the soybean genome and assess its effect on the SPB infestation by generating and characterizing stable transgenic soybeans overexpressing cry1c*. The transgenic soybean lines that constitutively overexpressed cry1c* exhibited a significant reduction in the percentage of damaged seeds, reaching as low as 5% in plants under field conditions. Additionally, feeding transgenic leaves to the larvae of S. exigua, S. litura, and M. separta resulted in inhibited larval growth, decreased larval body weight, and lower survival rates compared to larvae fed on wild-type leaves. These findings showed that the transgenic lines maintained their resistance to SPB and other lepidopteran pests, especially the transgenic line KC1. Southern blotting and genome-wide resequencing analysis revealed that T-DNA integration occurred as a single copy between loci 50,868,122 and 50,868,123 of chromosome 10 in the transgenic line KC1. Therefore, the transgenic line KC1, overexpressing high levels of cry1c* in leaves and seeds, holds strong potential for commercial use in the integrated management of SPB and other lepidopteran pests.
Comparison of Growth and Physiological Effects of Soil Moisture Regime on Plantago maritima Plants from Geographically Isolated Sites on the Eastern Coast of the Baltic Sea
Authors: Ozoliņa Katrīna Anna , Jēkabsone Astra , Andersone-Ozola Una , Ievinsh Gederts
Published: February 2024

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the morphological and physiological responses of P. maritima plants from five geographically isolated sites growing in habitats with different conditions to different substrate moisture levels in controlled conditions. Plants were produced from seed and cultivated in a greenhouse at four relatively constant soil moisture regimes: at 25, 50, and 75% soil water content and in soil flooded 3 cm above the surface (80% F). The two morphological traits that varied most strikingly among P. maritima accessions were the number of flower stalks and the number of leaves. Only plants from two accessions uniformly produced generative structures, and allocation to flowering was suppressed by both low moisture and flooding. Optimum shoot biomass accumulation for all accessions was at 50 and 75% soil moisture. The Performance Index Total was the most sensitive among the measured photosynthesis-related parameters, and it tended to decrease with an increase in soil water content for all P. maritima accessions. The initial hypothesis—that plants from relatively dry habitats will have a higher tolerance against low soil water levels, but plants from relatively wet habitats will have a higher tolerance against waterlogged or flooded soil—was not proven. The existence of three ecotypes of P. maritima within the five accessions from geographically isolated subpopulations on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea at the level of morphological responses to soil water content can be proposed. P. maritima plants can be characterized as extremely tolerant to soil waterlogging and highly tolerant to soil flooding and low soil water content.
Rosmarinic Acid Present in Lepechinia floribunda and Lepechinia meyenii as a Potent Inhibitor of the Adenylyl Cyclase gNC1 from Giardia lamblia
Authors: Zurita Adolfo , Vega Hissi Esteban , Cianci Romero Agostina , Luján Adela María , Salido Sofía , Yaneff Agustín , Davio Carlos , Cobo Justo , Carpinella María Cecilia , Enriz Ricardo Daniel
Published: February 2024

Giardiasis is a parasitosis caused by Giardia lamblia with significant epidemiological and clinical importance due to its high prevalence and pathogenicity. The lack of optimal therapies for treating this parasite makes the development of new effective chemical entities an urgent need. In the search for new inhibitors of the adenylyl cyclase gNC1 obtained from G. lamblia, 14 extracts from Argentinian native plants were screened. Lepechinia floribunda and L. meyenii extracts exhibited the highest gNC1 inhibitory activity, with IC50 values of 9 and 31 µg/mL, respectively. In silico studies showed rosmarinic acid, a hydroxycinnamic acid present in both mentioned species, to be a promising anti-gNC1 compound. This result was confirmed experimentally, with rosmarinic acid showing an IC50 value of 10.1 µM. Theoretical and experimental findings elucidate the molecular-level mechanism of rosmarinic acid, pinpointing the key interactions stabilizing the compound–enzyme complex and the binding site. These results strongly support that rosmarinic acid is a promising scaffold for developing novel compounds with inhibitory activity against gNC1, which could serve as potential therapeutic agents to treat giardiasis.
Phenotyping of Potato Plants Using Morphological and Physiological Tools
Authors: Rozentsvet Olga , Bogdanova Elena , Nesterov Viktor , Bakunov Alexey , Milekhin Alexey , Rubtsov Sergei , Rozentsvet Victor
Published: February 2024

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the main non-grain agricultural crops and one of the main sources of food for humanity. Currently, growing potatoes requires new approaches and methods for cultivation and breeding. Phenotyping is one of the important tools for assessing the characteristics of a potato variety. In this work, 29 potato varieties of different ripeness groups were studied. Linear leaf dimensions, leaf mass area, number of stems, number of tubers per plant, average tuber weight, signs of virus infection, dry weight, pigment content, and number of stomata per unit leaf area were used as phenotyping tools. The strongest positive relationship was found between yield and bush area in the stage of full shoots (R = 0.77, p = 0.001), linear dimensions of a complex leaf (R = 0.44, p = 0.002; R = 0.40, p = 0.003), number of stems (R = 0.36, p = 0.05), and resistance to viruses X (R = 0.42, p = 0.03) and S (R = 0.43, p = 0.02). An inverse relationship was found between growth dynamics and yield (R = −0.29, p = 0.05). Thus, the use of morphological and physiological phenotyping tools in the field is informative for predicting key agricultural characteristics such as yield and/or stress resistance.
Nitrogen Plasma Treatment of Composite Materials Based on Polylactic Acid and Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Khomutova Ulyana V. , Korzhova Alena G. , Bryuzgina Anastasia A. , Laput Olesya A. , Vasenina Irina V. , Akhmadeev Yuriy H. , Shugurov Vladimir V. , Azhazha Ivan I. , Shapovalova Yelena G. , Chernyavskii Aleksandr V. , Kurzina Irina A.
Published: February 2024

The effect of surface modification by an arc discharge plasma in a nitrogen flow with treatment durations of 5 and 10 min on the physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of the surface of composites based on polylactic acid and hydroxyapatite (PLA/HA) with different mass ratios (80/20, 70/30, 60/40) has been investigated. The aim of this work was to show the correlation between the changes of the physicochemical characteristics (chemical compound, morphology, wettability) of the surface layer of the PLA/HA composites and the cell viability (macrophages) in the presence of the plasma-modified materials. The dependence of alterations of the functional properties (wettability, biocompatibility) on the change in the chemical composition under the plasma exposure has been established. The chemical composition was studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the surface morphology was researched with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the wettability of the composite’s surface was analyzed by measuring the contact angle and surface energy calculation. In addition, the viability of macrophages was investigated when the macrophages from three donors interacted with a modified PLA/HA surface. It was found that the formation of the new functional groups, –C-N and N-C=O/C=O, improves the wettability of the surface of the composites and promotes the viability of macrophages in the presence of the composite materials. The fundamental principles for obtaining promising materials with the required properties for eliminating bone defects have been created.
From Circle to Cycloid: The Philosophical Value of Religious Cult in Maurice Blondel’s L’Action
Authors: Ciraulo Jonathan Martin
Published: February 2024

This article explores Maurice Blondel’s (1861–1949) later notion of the “cycloid” of thought, particularly as this helps us to understand his earlier work L’Action (1893). The aim is to demonstrate how Blondel incorporates aspects of the Christian faith, particularly the Eucharist, into his philosophy without abrogating his “method of immanence”. In particular, the article shows how Blondel saw attention to the Christian spirit as essential to the development of a metaphysics that attends both to finite actions and to the action of God, actus purus.