bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on a Marine Animal Behavior Recording Tag System Based on Combined Positioning and Recovery
Authors: Tian Chuan , Shen Shiyao , Sun Zejin , Xu Dazhen , Luo Peng , Song Yuanjie , Wang Zhentong , Wang Chen , Zhang Shengzong , Shen Chong
Published: December 2024

The ocean represents the cradle of life on Earth, making it essential to comprehend the complex interactions between marine animal behaviors and the physical microstructure of their environments in order to study their behavioral ecology. Due to the vastness of the ocean, traditional observational techniques are constrained by distance, which poses significant challenges for conducting extended and continuous research on marine animal behavior and ecology. To overcome these challenges, this paper introduces a behavior recording tag system incorporating temperature, pressure, and miniature inertial measurement unit (MIMU) sensors as data collection modules. These sensors are integrated with a main control module and a data storage module to gather and archive behavioral and environmental information. A combined positioning recovery method is proposed, developed, and validated to address the issue of retrieving the tag system post data collection. The behavior recording tag system’s performance was assessed through laboratory and pool tests. The findings show that the accuracy of temperature sensor is about 0.01 °C, the accuracy of pressure sensor is approximately 0.5% of full scale, the continuous data collection duration can extend to 3 days, and the recovery window time after surfacing exceeds 7 days, underscoring its viability as a marine animal behavior recorder.
Native and Non-Native Soil and Endophytic Trichoderma spp. from Semi-Arid Sisal Fields of Brazil Are Potential Biocontrol Agents for Sisal Bole Rot Disease
Authors: Barbosa Leonardo O. , Conceição Tainá D. S. da , Neves Adriana de O. , Rocha Wélica Z. B. , Damasceno Beatriz S. , Fonseca Paula L. C. , Ribeiro Paulo R. , Tome Luis M. R. , Bortolini Dener E. , Martins Fabiano M. , Raya Fábio T. , Goes-Neto Aristóteles , Soares Ana C. F.
Published: December 2024

Sisal (Agave sisalana) bole rot caused by Aspergillus welwitschiae is the main phytosanitary problem affecting sisal in the Brazilian semi-arid region. The aim of this study was to evaluate Trichoderma spp. as biocontrol agents for sisal bole rot. Native and non-native species, both soil inhabitants and endophytes, and isolated from different plant hosts were tested. Anatomical studies of the interaction among A. sisalana, Trichoderma spp., and A. welwitschiae were performed. T. cf. asperellum (isolate F12), an endophyte of sisal leaves; T. cf. asperellum (TCS83) from banana plant soil; T. lentiforme (TCS15) and T. harzianum (species complex) (TCS35 and TCS76) from sisal root soil; T. spirale (R62) and T. saturnisporum (R75), endophytes of sisal roots, were the most efficient isolates, with inhibition of A. welwitschiae mycelial growth by up to 70%, and inhibition of sporulation and spore germination by 99%. A reduction in disease incidence of 70 to 93% and in disease severity of 97% was achieved. T. lentiforme (TCS1), T. harzianum (species complex) (TCS35 and R72), and T. koningiopsis (R78) showed mycoparasitism. An increase in cell wall thickness of bole tissue colonized by these Trichoderma species indicated that induced plant defense responses occurred, preventing pathogen colonization, which should be further investigated. Native and non-native Trichoderma species can control sisal bole rot disease.
What Journalism Feels Like: Considering the Body of the Journalist
Authors: Deuze Mark , Glitsos Laura
Published: December 2024

All journalists have bodies. This commonsensical fact acquires more currency every day as the work of reporters and editors becomes automated, robotized, and taken over by (generative) artificial intelligence. The embodied nature of news work matters, not in the least because of the personal attachment practitioners have to what journalism is, or should be. However, in the rich history of journalism studies, bodily perspectives are remarkably absent—beyond descriptions of journalists as sociodemographic profiles. In this essay, we explore various theoretical frameworks to bring the body back into the study and practice of journalism. In our argument, we apply the insights gained from this exercise to address the well-documented gap between what journalists feel their work should be—and the reality of what their work is actually like.
Untangling Photographic Manipulation: Exploring a Dual Concept and Its Societal Implications
Authors: Hausken Liv
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the pervasive presence of visual disinformation in the media and visual culture, propelled by technological advancements, has become an escalating concern. This article asserts the urgent need to revise the current conceptual framework for addressing this challenge. A significant hurdle is the ambiguity surrounding the very concept of manipulation. Two distinct concepts of manipulation coexist—one with moral implications and the other without. This article examines this conceptual discrepancy across academic cultures, identifying them as anchored, respectively, in the social sciences and humanities and in the natural sciences and medicine. It then analyzes how these two concepts are used in white papers and other policy documents that guide responses to visual disinformation from 2018 to 2021. The article further investigates the complexities of these manipulation concepts within photography and visual expression. By elucidating and questioning them, the article aims to enhance the framework for addressing visual manipulation, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and enrich theories of camera-based imaging across various fields. Overall, this article highlights deficiencies in the current framework and strives to improve it, thereby aiding in tackling visual disinformation and fostering effective collaboration among stakeholders.
Assessment of Chicken Fecal Contamination Using Microbial Source Tracking (MST) and Environmental DNA (eDNA) Profiling in Silway River, Philippines
Authors: Opog Lonny Mar , Casila Joan Cecilia , Lampayan Rubenito , Sobremisana Marisa , Bulasag Abriel , Yokoyama Katsuhide , Haddout Soufiane
Published: December 2024

The Silway River has historically failed to meet safe fecal coliform levels due to improper waste disposal. The river mouth is located in General Santos City, the tuna capital of the Philippines and a leading producer of hogs, cattle, and poultry. The buildup of contaminants due to direct discharge of waste from chicken farms and existing water quality conditions has led to higher fecal matter in the Silway River. While there were technical reports in the early 2000s about poultry farming, this is the first study where fecal coliform from poultry farming was detected in the Silway River using highly sensitive protocols like qPCR. This study characterized the effect of flow velocity and physicochemical water quality parameters on chicken fecal contamination. Gene markers such as Ckmito and ND5-CD were used to detect and quantify poultry manure contamination through microbial source tracking (MST) and environmental DNA (eDNA) profiling. The results of this study showed the presence of chicken fecal bacteria in all stations along the Silway River. The results revealed that normal levels of water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, and high TSS concentrations create favorable conditions for chicken fecal coliforms to thrive. Multiple regression analysis showed that flow velocity and DO significantly affect chicken fecal contamination. A lower cycle threshold (Ct) value indicated higher concentration of the marker ND5-CD, which means higher fecal contamination. It was found that there was an inverse relationship between the Ct value and both velocity (R2 = 0.55, p = 0.01) and DO (R2 = 0.98, p = 0.2), suggesting that low flow velocity and low DO can lead to higher fecal contamination. Findings of fecal contamination could negatively impact water resources, the health of nearby residents, and surrounding farms and industries, as well as the health and growth of fish.
Coupled PLUS and SWAT Model Assessment of Streamflow Response to Climate Change and Human Interventions in Arid Alpine Regions: A Case Study of the Zamu River, China
Authors: Xia Honghua , Yang Linshan , Feng Qi , Liu Wei , Su Yingqing , Wu Minyan , He Wanghan , Zou Xingyi
Published: December 2024

Climate change and human interventions have exerted a long-term influence on variations in continental streamflow. Despite this, the precise mechanisms by which these factors regulate the change in streamflow remain inadequately understood, especially in arid alpine regions, due to the limited number of observations which exacerbates difficulties in comprehensively assessing streamflow alterations. Consequently, assessing the impacts of climate change and human interventions on streamflow is a challenge in data-scarce regions. Here, using the Zamu River as an example, we analyzed streamflow changes in arid alpine regions using a method that integrates the Patch-generated Land Use Simulation model, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool, and the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6. Our analysis highlighted that climate change primarily drove streamflow variations in the Zamu River, accounting for over 80% of the observed contributions. This influence was further amplified by the effects of future climate and changes in land use and land cover, resulting in increased streamflow. Additionally, precipitation emerged as the main factor driving the rise in streamflow. These findings emphasize the significant impact of climate change on water cycles in arid alpine regions and underscore the necessity for tailored water resource management strategies to ensure sustainable regional development and effective climate change adaptation.
Surgical Treatment and Targeted Therapy for a Large Metastatic Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Skórka Patryk , Kordykiewicz Dawid , Ilków Andrzej , Ptaszyński Konrad , Wójcik Janusz , Skórka Wiktoria , Wojtyś Małgorzata Edyta
Published: December 2024

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) significantly increases the risk of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST), a rare and aggressive malignancy for which treatment is clinically challenging. This paper presents the case of a 24-year-old male with an NF1 who developed MPNST with lung metastases. Due to the limited effectiveness of systemic therapy in the treatment of MPNST, the patient underwent radical surgical resection and radiotherapy. Pathological evaluation confirmed high-grade MPNST, and PET-CT imaging revealed further metastatic progression. The treatment results for our patient are compared with those of other patients with NF1 who also developed MPNST with lung metastases in the literature. The findings suggest the need for further research into personalized treatment strategies that may improve prognosis and overall survival in patients with NF1 and MPNST, with immunotherapy being a promising therapeutic option.
Histological Findings of Resected Tracheal Ring in SARS-CoV-2-Positive and -Negative Tracheostomized Patients
Authors: Mata-Castro Nieves , Castañeda-Vozmediano Raúl , Perna Cristian , Prada Puentes Carlos , Sanz López Lorena
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The aim of this study was to compare the histopathological findings in the resected tracheal ring of tracheotomized critically ill patients with or without severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Material and Methods: This is a prospective case–control study. The data collection period was between May 2020 and 2022. Eighty tracheostomies were performed on patients with long intubation, and the resected tracheal ring was examined by standard microscopy. Forty consecutive tracheotomies were carried out in COVID-19-positive and -negative patients. Results: The mean age was 67.1 (6.9 SD) years in the COVID-19 group and 67.8 (9.6 SD) in the control group (p = 0.3). The number of men in each group was 30 (75.0%) versus 27 (67.5%), respectively (p = 0.5). No relevant histological alterations were found in 82.5% of samples. Chronic subepithelial inflammation was found in 13.8% of cases. Two cases presented with vasculitis (2.5%), and one case presented with thrombotic microangiopathy (1.2%), all of them in the COVID-19 group. We found no statistically significant dependence between relevant histologic findings versus no alterations (X2 = 0.779, p= 0.377) and no significant risk indices (RR = 1.8, OR = 2.032, PAR = 44%). Conclusion: There is no evidence of increased risk of histopathological findings in the resected tracheal ring of patients with long intubation and COVID-19 disease.
Generation of Charges During the Synthesis of Nanopowders of Doped Cerium Dioxide in Combustion Reactions
Authors: Ostroushko Alexander , Russkikh Olga , Zhulanova Tatiyana , Permyakova Anastasia , Filonova Elena
Published: December 2024

The development and characterization of synthesis techniques for oxide materials based on ceria is a subject of extensive study with the objective of their wide-ranging applications in pursuit of sustainable development. The present study demonstrates the feasibility of controlled synthesis of Ce1−xMxO2−δ (M = Fe, Ni, Co, Mn, Cu, Ag, Sm, Cs, x = 0.0–0.3) in combustion reactions from precursors comprising glycine, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, and cellulose as organic components. Controlled synthesis is achieved by varying the composition of the precursor, the type of organic component, and the amount of organic component, which allows for the influence of the generation of high-density electrical charges and outgassing during synthesis. The intensity of charge generation is quantified by measuring the value of the precursor–ground potential difference. It has been demonstrated that an increase in the intensity of charge generation results in a more developed morphology, which is essential for the practical implementation of ceria as a catalyst to enhance contact with gases and solid particles. The maximum value of the potential difference, equal to 68 V, is obtained during the synthesis of Ce0.7Ni0.3O2−δ with polyvinyl alcohol in stoichiometric relations, which corresponds to a specific surface area of 21.7 m2 g−1. A correlation is established between the intensity of gas release for systems with different organic components, the intensity of charge generation, morphology, and the value of the specific surface area of the samples.
The Mechanical Properties and Energy Absorption of AuxHex Structures
Authors: Panowicz Robert , Jeschke Adam , Durejko Tomasz , Zachman Marcin , Konarzewski Marcin
Published: December 2024

Based on a combination of hexagonal honeycomb and re-entrant honeycomb cells, the concept of novel hybrid cell structures was developed. Experimental studies and numerical analyses of the behaviour of the analysed structures under in-plane compression in two compression directions were carried out. Explicit finite element analyses with an explicit integration scheme, incorporating plastic deformation and ductile damage evolution models, were employed to analyse the entire deformation process, including plastic and damage stages. Good agreement was obtained between the results of the numerical analyses and the experimental studies.
Engineering Application of Hardbanding Technology in the Petroleum Industry
Authors: Bădicioiu Marius , Călțaru Mihaela Mădălina , Petrescu Marius Gabriel
Published: December 2024

The petroleum industry is essential for supplying crude oil, which is vital for fuel and chemicals and drives substantial investments in technologies, especially in regard to increasing the durability of the drill strings used in wellbore construction. This study aims to establish and to validate a hardbanding technology for reconditioning NC50 tool joints subjected to wear, thereby increasing drill pipe durability and reducing the risk of failure during drilling, which can lead to ecological pollution, human safety issues, and financial costs. The hardbanding of the tool joints was carried out using the gas metal arc welding process (GMAW) with two different wear-resistant wires, ARNCO 100XT and FLUXOFIL M58. The equipment designed for this research allowed for the application of high-quality hardbanding layers in very good condition, according to the favorable results obtained by macroscopic analyses, metallographic studies and hardness measurements. The hardbanding procedure of the tool joint drill pipe was documented in a welding procedure specification (WPS), which validates the process and is useful for operators, drilling companies and other oilfield service companies who wish to apply under the same conditions and at the same high-quality level, in a repetitive mode, the reconditioning process to minimize the risk of drill-string failures.
Gas-Thermal Spraying Synthesis of β-Ga2O3 Luminescent Ceramics
Authors: Gadzhiev Makhach Kh. , Muslimov Arsen E. , Yusupov Damir I. , Il’ichev Maksim V. , Kulikov Yury M. , Chistolinov Andrey V. , Venevtsev Ivan D. , Volchkov Ivan S. , Kanevsky Vladimir M. , Tyuftyaev Alexander S.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the initial results of the synthesis of β-Ga2O3 luminescent ceramics via plasma gas-thermal spraying synthesis, where low-temperature plasma of an argon and nitrogen mixture was employed. A direct current electric arc generator of high-enthalpy plasma jet with a self-aligning arc length and an expanding channel of an output electrode served as a plasma source. The feedstock material consisted of a polydisperse powder of monocrystalline β-Ga2O3 with particle sizes ranging from 5 to 50 μm. The study presents the results of both theoretical and experimental studies on the heating rate and average temperature of gallium oxide particles in a plasma jet. The results of computational modelling of the synthesis process of β-Ga2O3 via plasma gas-thermal spraying are shown. The obtained ceramic samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. Our results indicate that the synthesis process yielded ceramics with a layered texture. The stoichiometric composition of ceramics exhibited a shift towards gallium-rich content. X-ray diffraction data demonstrated a reduction in the lattice parameters and unit cell volume of β-Ga2O3 ceramic structure. Radioluminescence spectra of β-Ga2O3 ceramics revealed an intensive emission band with a maximum at ~360 nm and non-exponential decay. The synthesized β-Ga2O3 ceramics possess potential applications in scintillation detectors.
Biocomposites Based on Mould Biomass and Waste Fibres for the Production of Agrotextiles: Technology Development, Material Characterization, and Agricultural Application
Authors: Gutarowska Beata , Gibka Dominika , Olejnik Konrad , Pospiech Piotr , Boruta Tomasz , Kapela Tomasz , Makowski Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

This study explores the potential use of mould biomass and waste fibres for the production of agrotextiles. First, 20 mould strains were screened for efficient mycelium growth, with optimized conditions of temperature, sources of carbon and nitrogen in the medium, and type of culture (submerged or surface). A method was developed for creating a biocomposite based on the mould mycelium, reinforced with commercial bleached softwood kraft (BSK) pulp and fibre additives (cotton, hemp). The best properties, including mechanical, water permeability, and air permeability, were shown by the biocomposites containing 10–20% Cladosporium cladosporioides mycelium grown in surface or submerged cultures, milled with BSK pulp, cotton, and hemp (10–20%). The mould mycelium was refined with cellulosic fibrous material, formed, pressed, and dried, resulting in a biomaterial with good mechanical parameters, low water permeability, and high air permeability. The biocomposite was fully biodegradable in soil after 10 days in field conditions. The use of the biocomposite as a crop cover shortened the germination time and increased the percentage of germinated onion, but had no effect on parsley seeds. This study shows the potential of using mould mycelium for the production of biomaterial with good properties for applications in horticulture.
Multiscale Concurrent Topology Optimization and Mechanical Property Analysis of Sandwich Structures
Authors: Li Zihao , Li Shiqiang , Wang Zhihua
Published: December 2024

Based on the basic theoretical framework of the Bi-directional Evolutionary Structural Optimization method (BESO) and the Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization method (SIMP), this paper presents a multiscale topology optimization method for concurrently optimizing the sandwich structure at the macro level and the core layer at the micro level. The types of optimizations are divided into macro and micro concurrent topology optimization (MM), macro and micro gradient concurrent topology optimization (MMG), and macro and micro layered gradient concurrent topology optimization (MMLG). In order to compare the multiscale optimization method with the traditional macroscopic optimization method, the sandwich simply supported beam is illustrated as a numerical example to demonstrate the functionalities and superiorities of the proposed method. Moreover, several samples are printed through micro-nano 3D printing technology, and then the static three-point bending experiments and the numerical simulations are carried out. The mechanical properties of the optimized structures in terms of deformation modes, load-bearing capacity, and energy absorption characteristics are compared and analyzed in detail. Finally, the multiscale optimization methods are extended to the design of 2D sandwich cantilever beams and 3D sandwich fully clamped beams.
Parameter Matching of Battery–Supercapacitor Hybrid Power System for Electric Loader
Authors: Yang Mingkun , Chen Gexin , Ai Chao , Liu Xianhang , Jiang Tao
Published: December 2024

The hybrid power system formed by batteries and supercapacitors can meet the demands of electric loaders for endurance and instantaneous power. Appropriate parameter matching can optimize the operational performance of the hybrid power system. However, multiple optimization objectives and complex constraints present technical challenges for parameter matching. To address this, this paper proposes a multi-objective optimization parameter matching method for a hybrid power system based on the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) algorithm. First, mathematical models for the battery, supercapacitor, and DC-DC converter are established. Next, based on the performance requirements of electric loaders, objective functions and constraints for hybrid power parameter matching are defined, and an optimization model for parameter matching is developed. Finally, the optimal parameters for the hybrid power system are determined using the NSGA-II algorithm. Experimental results indicate that, compared to a single battery energy storage system, the operational energy consumption of electric loaders equipped with a hybrid power system is reduced by 3.32% and battery capacity degradation is decreased by 10.61%, with only a slight increase in costs.
Calixarene-like Lanthanide Single-Ion Magnets Based on NdIII, GdIII, TbIII and DyIII Oxamato Complexes
Authors: da Cunha Tamyris T. , Honorato de Araujo-Neto João , Alvarenga Meiry E. , Martins Felipe Terra , Pedroso Emerson F. , Mariano Davor L. , Nunes Wallace C. , Moliner Nicolás , Lloret Francesc , Julve Miguel , Pereira Cynthia L. M.
Published: December 2024

In this work, we describe the synthesis, crystal structures and magnetic properties of four air-stable mononuclear lanthanide(III) complexes with the N-(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)oxamate (Htmpa) of formula: n-Bu4N[Nd(Htmpa)4(H2O)]·4H2O (1), n-Bu4N[Gd(Htmpa)4(H2O)]·3DMSO·2H2O (2), n-Bu4N[Tb(Htmpa)4(H2O)]·3DMSO·1H2O (3) and n-Bu4N[Dy(Htmpa)4(H2O)]·3DMSO·2H2O (4) (n-Bu4N+ = n-tetrabutylammonium; DMSO = dimethylsulfoxide). Their crystal structures reveal the occurrence of calixarene-type monoanionic species containing all-cis-disposed Htmpa ligands and one water molecule coordinated with the respective LnIII ion (Ln = Nd, Gd, Tb and Dy), featuring a nine-coordinated environment with muffin (MFF-9) (1) or spherical-capped square antiprism (CSAPR-9) (2–4) geometry. The major difference between their crystal structures is related to the nature of crystallization solvent molecules, either water (1) or both DMSO and water (2–4). The intermolecular hydrogen bonds among the self-complementary Htmpa ligands in all four compounds mediated a 2 D supramolecular network in the solid state. Direct-current (dc) magnetic properties for 1–4 show typical behavior for the ground state terms of the LnIII ions [4I9/2 (Nd); 8S7/2(Gd), 7F6 (Tb), 6H15/2 (Dy)]. Alternating-current (ac) magnetic measurements reveal the presence of slow magnetic relaxation without the presence of a dc field only for 4. In contrast, field-induced slow magnetic relaxation behavior was found in complexes 1, 2 and 3.
A High-Feasibility Real-Time Trajectory-Planning Method for Parafoils Based on a Flexible Dynamic Model
Authors: Yu Jiaming , Sun Hao , Sun Qinglin , Sun Mingwei , Chen Zengqiang
Published: December 2024

Effective trajectory planning is critical for achieving precise autonomous navigation and safe landing of parafoil delivery systems. However, current parafoil trajectory planning still faces challenges in ensuring consistency between actual system behavior and algorithmic real-time performance. Due to the strong fluid–structure interaction (FSI) between the flexible canopy and airflow, traditional dynamic models based on point mass and rigid-body assumptions often lack aerodynamic accuracy. These models produce planned trajectories in simulation environments that are inconsistent with the actual system’s behavior and cannot directly provide an effective reference for airdrop experiments. Additionally, traditional planning methods require a significant amount of time to calculate complex dynamic models and generate fixed trajectories in advance. These methods not only fail to provide usable results in a short period of time, but also cannot prevent the accumulation of tracking errors by adjusting the target trajectory in real time. To address these issues, this paper proposes a flexible 8-degree-of-freedom (8-DOF) dynamic model based on the FSI method, utilizing the actual aerodynamic parameters of the canopy to achieve improved consistency with the behavior of the actual system. The Soft Actor–Critic (SAC) algorithm is then employed to achieve real-time trajectory planning for parafoil airdrop systems, addressing the real-time planning performance limitations of traditional algorithms. The airdrop experiments validate that the simulation trajectories generated using this model demonstrate higher consistency with actual flight trajectories, providing more accurate references for pre-flight trajectory optimization. Moreover, the proposed method enables real-time trajectory planning and dynamically adjusts target trajectories based on the current position and attitude of the parafoil, effectively mitigating the accumulation of errors.
Advanced Trans-EEGNet Deep Learning Model for Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Severity Grading
Authors: Shih Dong-Her , Chung Feng-I , Wu Ting-Wei , Huang Shuo-Yu , Shih Ming-Hung
Published: December 2024

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a brain injury condition that poses a significant risk to newborns, potentially causing varying degrees of damage to the central nervous system. Its clinical manifestations include respiratory distress, cardiac dysfunction, hypotension, muscle weakness, seizures, and coma. As HIE represents a progressive brain injury, early identification of the extent of the damage and the implementation of appropriate treatment are crucial for reducing mortality and improving outcomes. HIE patients may face long-term complications such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, vision loss, and developmental delays. Therefore, prompt identification and treatment of hypoxic-ischemic symptoms can help reduce the risk of severe sequelae in patients. Currently, hypothermia therapy is one of the most effective treatments for HIE patients. However, not all newborns with HIE are suitable for this therapy, making rapid and accurate assessment of the extent of brain injury critical for treatment. Among HIE patients, hypothermia therapy has shown better efficacy in those diagnosed with moderate to severe HIE within 6 h of birth, establishing this time frame as the golden period for treatment. During this golden period, an accurate assessment of HIE severity is essential for formulating appropriate treatment strategies and predicting long-term outcomes for the affected infants. This study proposes a method for addressing data imbalance and noise interference through data preprocessing techniques, including filtering and SMOTE. It then employs EEGNet, a deep learning model specifically designed for EEG classification, combined with a Transformer model featuring an attention mechanism that excels at capturing long-term sequential features to construct the Trans-EEGNet model. This model outperforms previous methods in computation time and feature extraction, enabling rapid classification and assessment of HIE severity in newborns.
Artificial Intelligence in the New Era of Decision-Making: A Case Study of the Euro Stoxx 50
Authors: Parra-Domínguez Javier , Sanz-Martín Laura
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates machine learning models for stock market prediction in the European stock market EU50, with emphasis on the integration of key technical indicators. Advanced techniques, such as ANNs, CNNs and LSTMs, are applied to analyze a large EU50 dataset. Key indicators, such as the simple moving average (SMA), exponential moving average (EMA), moving average convergence/divergence (MACD), stochastic oscillator, relative strength index (RSI) and accumulation/distribution (A/D), were employed to improve the model’s responsiveness to market trends and momentum shifts. The results show that CNN models can effectively capture localized price patterns, while LSTM models excel in identifying long-term dependencies, which is beneficial for understanding market volatility. ANN models provide reliable benchmark predictions. Among the models, CNN with RSI obtained the best results, with an RMSE of 0.0263, an MAE of 0.0186 and an R2 of 0.9825, demonstrating high accuracy in price prediction. The integration of indicators such as SMA and EMA improves trend detection, while MACD and RSI increase the sensitivity to momentum, which is essential for identifying buy and sell signals. This research demonstrates the potential of machine learning models for refined stock prediction and informs data-driven investment strategies, with CNN and LSTM models being particularly well suited for dynamic price prediction.
Fucosterol, a Phytosterol of Marine Algae, Attenuates Immobilization-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy in C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Hwang Jieun , Kim Mi-Bo , Lee Sanggil , Hwang Jae-Kwan
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study was to examine whether fucosterol, a phytosterol of marine algae, could ameliorate skeletal muscle atrophy in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-treated C2C12 myotubes and in immobilization-induced C57BL/6J mice. Male C57BL6J mice were immobilized for 1 week to induce skeletal muscle atrophy. Following immobilization, the mice were administrated orally with saline or fucosterol (10 or 30 mg/kg/day) for 1 week. Fucosterol significantly attenuated immobilization-induced muscle atrophy by enhancing muscle strength, with a concomitant increase in muscle volume, mass, and myofiber cross-sectional area in the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle in mice. In both the TNF-α-treated C2C12 myotubes and the TA muscle of immobilized mice, fucosterol significantly prevented muscle protein degradation, which was attributed to a reduction in atrogin-1 and muscle ring finger 1 gene expression through an increase in forkhead box O3α (FoxO3α) phosphorylation. Continuously, fucosterol stimulated muscle protein synthesis by increasing the phosphorylation of the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR), 70 kDa ribosomal protein S6 kinase, and 4E binding protein 1, which was mediated through the stimulation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway. Thus, fucosterol alleviated skeletal muscle atrophy in TNF-α-treated C2C12 myotubes and immobilized C57BL/6J mice through the regulation of the Akt/mTOR/FoxO3α signaling pathway.
The Amount of Orthodontic Force Reaching the Dental Pulp and Neuro-Vascular Bundle During Orthodontic Movements in the Intact Periodontium
Authors: Moga Radu-Andrei , Olteanu Cristian Doru , Delean Ada Gabriela
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Most orthodontic forces are absorbed–dissipated before reaching the dental pulp and its neuro-vascular bundle (NVB); however, no data are available about their amounts. The objective of this study was to assess the amount of orthodontic force that reaches the dental pulp and its NVB during orthodontic movements in a healthy periodontium. Materials and Methods: This study involved the second lower premolars of nine patients and 180 numerical simulations. Five orthodontic movements (intrusion, extrusion, rotation, translation, and tipping) under 0.5 N/5 KPa and 4 N/40 KPa were assessed. The numerical methods included only two failure criteria suitable for dental tissue (of ductile resemblance): Von Mises (VM) (overall, homogenous) and Tresca (shear, non-homogenous). Results: Both forces displayed a similar color-coded stress display for the two methods. The Tresca quantitative results were 1.11 times higher than the VM but lower than the maximum physiological hydrostatic circulatory pressure. The biomechanical behavior of the pulp and NVB showed that, in the intact periodontium, the NVB-induced stress was 5.7 higher than in the pulp. Quantitatively, the rotation movement seemed to be the most stressful for the NVB, closely followed by intrusion and extrusion. For the dental pulp, rotation remained the most stressful, closely followed by tipping and translation. Tissue deformations were visible for NVB areas during intrusion and extrusion. The dental pulp showed pulpal stresses under translation and rotation. The numerical simulations with the two methods showed that, in the intact periodontium, only a small amount of the initial orthodontic load produced effects in the NVB and dental pulp. Only about 2.85% of the initial orthodontic load of 40 KPa/4 N applied at the bracket level induced stresses in the NVB, while the dental pulp was reached by 0.5% of the applied force. A similar distribution was seen at 5 KPa/0.5 N. Conclusions: The absorption–dissipation ability of the dental tissue varies between 97.15 and 99.98%.
Comparative Analysis of Lower Back Pain and Phantom Pain in Unilateral Lower Limb Amputees: A Study on Amputee Football Players vs. Non-Athletes
Authors: Jóźwik Aleksandra , Wnuk-Scardaccione Agnieszka , Bilski Jan
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Amputation poses a significant clinical and therapeutic challenge, with over 90.0% of amputations involving the lower limbs, of which 75.0% are associated with diabetes and peripheral artery disease. Individuals with lower limb amputations often experience secondary disabilities. This study aimed to compare the frequency and intensity of lower back pain and phantom pain in individuals with unilateral lower limb amputations who were amputee football players with those who did not participate in adaptive sports. Materials and Methods: This study included 30 men who had undergone unilateral lower limb amputation and were divided into two groups: 15 amputee football players and 15 men who did not participate in adapted sports. Testing included proprietary surveys, questionnaires, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain intensity. The Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMPnoPRO) was used to assess motor function. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica software (Version 13, StatSoft, Inc., Tulsa, OK, USA) by applying Student’s t-test, the Mann–Whitney U test, correlation coefficients, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Phantom pain was reported in 53.3% of individuals in the study group and in 66.7% of individuals in the control group, with average median pain intensities of 5.5 (IQR: 2) and 5.5 (IQR: 3), respectively. Lower back pain was significantly higher in the control group (86.7%) than for the football players (33.3%), with median pain intensities of 4 (IQR: 2) and 3 (IQR: 2), respectively. The median disability score was 3 (IQR: 3) in the player group and 10 (IQR: 7) in the control group. The median score in the amputee football player group was 35 (IQR: 2), while that in the control group was only 18 (IQR: 19). Conclusions: Amputee football training did not have a significant impact on the frequency or intensity of phantom pain but was associated with lower occurrence and intensity of pain in the lower back. The players exhibited significantly better motor function and lower levels of disability. Preoperative limb pain was a significant risk factor for phantom pain in the study group. Adaptive sports can not only support the development of motor and social skills but also contribute to reducing the severity of lower back pain, which leads to a decrease in the level of disability.
Enhanced Performance and Durability of Pore-Filling Membranes for Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Lee Minyoung , Park Jin-Soo
Published: December 2024

Four distinct pore-filling anion exchange membranes (PFAEMs) were prepared, and their mechanical properties, ion conductivity, and performance in anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE) were evaluated. The fabricated PFAEMs demonstrated exceptional tensile strength, which was approximately 14 times higher than that of the commercial membrane, despite being nearly half as thin. Ion conductivity measurements revealed that acrylamide-based membranes outperformed benzyl-based ones, exhibiting 25% and 41% higher conductivity when using crosslinkers with two and three crosslinking sites, respectively. The AEMWE performance directly correlated with the hydrophilicity and ion exchange capacity (IEC) of the membranes. Specifically, AE_3C achieved the highest performance, supported by its superior IEC and ionic conductivity. Durability tests showed that AE_3C outlasted the commercial membrane, with a delayed voltage increase corresponding to its higher IEC, confirming the importance of increased ion-exchange functional groups in ensuring longevity. These results highlight the critical role of hydrophilic monomers and crosslinker structure in optimizing PFAEMs for enhanced performance and durability in AEMWE applications.
Thermomigration Microstructure and Properties of Ni Nanoparticle-Reinforced Sn58Bi Composite Solder/Cu Solder Joint
Authors: Fan Yuchun , Zhang Keke , Chen Weiming , Wu Jinna , Wang Yonglei
Published: December 2024

A Sn58Bi composite solder reinforced by Ni nanoparticles was prepared using a mechanical mixing technique, and the thermomigration microstructure and properties of the solder joints were studied. The findings indicate that incorporating an appropriate quantity of Ni nanoparticles can enhance the microstructure of the composite solder and mitigate the coarsening of Bi-phase segregation. At 0.75 weight percent Ni nanoparticle content, the composite solder’s tensile strength is 59.7 MPa and its elongation is 54.6%, both of which are noticeably greater than those of the base solder. When the thermal loading time is 576 h, the shear strength of the composite solder joint is 25.5 MPa, which is 30.1% higher than that of the base solder joint. This study reveals that the shear fracture path shifts from the boundary region between the solder seam and the IMC layer to the IMC layer itself. Concurrently, the fracture mode evolves from a mix of brittle–ductile fracture, characterized by quasi-cleavage, to a predominantly brittle fracture, marked by numerous “rock candy-like” cross-sectional features and secondary cracking. Adding Ni nanoparticles to the Sn58Bi composite solder/Cu solder junction can significantly extend its service life.
Laser Surface Texturing of Cutting Tools for Improving the Machining of Ti6Al4V: A Review
Authors: Garcia-Fernandez Javier , Salguero Jorge , Batista Moises , Vazquez-Martinez Juan Manuel , Del Sol Irene
Published: December 2024

The machining of titanium alloys, particularly Ti6Al4V, presents a significant challenge in manufacturing engineering. Its high strength, low thermal conductivity and high chemical reactivity make Ti6Al4V a hard-to-machine material. However, the machining process is critical for aerospace and biomedical industries. The rapid wear and short lifetime of cutting tools are the main limitations in Ti6Al4V machining, leading to a large increase in manufacturing costs and compromising the surface quality of machined components. Faced with this problem, the texturing of cutting tools, especially through laser-based techniques, has gained considerable attention in the last decade due to improvement of the tribological properties of textured surfaces. Laser Surface Texturing (LST) has emerged as a promising technique to improve the tribological performance of cutting tools by enabling the creation of precise surface structures. Building on prior research, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the most recent research on this topic, summarizing key findings and outcomes from various investigations.
Fine-Grained High-Permeability Fe73.5−xB9Si14Cu1Nb2.5Mx (M = Mo or W) Nanocrystalline Alloys with Co-Added Heterogeneous Transition Metal Elements
Authors: An Su-Bong , Im Hyun-Ah , Kwon Young-Tae , Lee Jung-Woo , Jeong Jae-Won
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effects of multi-transition metals on the soft magnetic properties of Fe73.5−xB9Si14Cu1Nb2.5Mx (M = Nb, Mo, and W) nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloys. Nanocrystalline soft magnetic materials are utilized in electronic components on the basis of their permeability and low core loss. In conventional alloys such as FINEMET, Nb inhibits nanocrystal growth and promotes amorphous formation. In this research, Mo and W were used as additional transition metals to control the size of nanocrystals and explore the potential for enhancing soft magnetic properties. We confirmed that the addition of Mo and W reduced the nanocrystal size, and the activation energy for nanocrystal formation and growth showed significant benefits for nanocrystalline alloys. Consequently, the soft magnetic properties of the alloys containing Mo and W exhibited higher permeability and lower coercivity. These results suggest that multi-transition metals are effective in improving soft magnetic properties by inhibiting nanocrystal formation and growth.
An Investigation into the Ti-Nb-Ag Ternary System for Biocompatible Superelastic Alloys
Authors: Prasad Ayush , Church Nicole L. , Jones Nicholas G.
Published: December 2024

Superelastic metastable β-Ti-Nb alloys are attractive low-modulus materials for use in biomedical implants. The antibacterial properties of silver and its ability to lower the modulus of Ti-Nb-based transforming alloys make it an appealing ternary addition, but the Ti-Nb-Ag system is poorly characterised at present. This study elucidates the microstructure, equilibrium phases, and mechanical behaviour of a systematic series of Ti–24Nb–XAg (X = 0, 2, 6) (at.%) alloys. The mutual solubility of Nb and Ag in Ti overcame the immiscibility of Nb and Ag and produced an alloy with a single-phase β microstructure for low Ag concentrations. However, at silver concentrations above approximately 5 at.%, the solubility limit was reached and precipitates began to form. These precipitates were found to form quickly during recrystallisation, refining the grain size by Zener pinning, and persisted even after a 500 h heat treatment at 1100 °C. All three alloys showed non-linear-elastic behaviour typical of transforming alloys. The addition of up to 2 at.% Ag to Ti–24Nb was found to decrease the elastic modulus, suppress formation of the ω phase, and cause the critical transformation stress to decrease, though the transformation stress increased above that of Ti–24Nb when 6 at.% Ag is added. These results indicate that Ti-Nb-Ag alloys are a promising candidate for developing new low-modulus implants.
Viral Metagenomics in Patients Who Underwent Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT): A Brazilian Experience
Authors: de Campos Gabriel Montenegro , de Mello Costa Thalita Cristina , Silveira Roberta Maraninchi , Valença Ian Nunes , Bezerra Rafael dos Santos , Darrigo Junior Luiz Guilherme , Vieira Ana Carolina de Jesus , Mesquita Camila Campos , Laurindo Patrícia da Silva , Cunha Renato Guerino , Kashima Simone , Covas Dimas Tadeu , Simões Belinda Pinto , Sampaio Sandra Coccuzzo , Elias Maria Carolina , Giovanetti Marta , Slavov Svetoslav Nanev
Published: December 2024

Viral infections are one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality among patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Immunosuppression may lead to the reactivation of latent viruses or the acquisition of new infections, resulting in severe clinical outcomes. The early detection of viral reactivations is crucial for effective patient management and post-transplant care. In this study, we employed next-generation metagenomics to assess changes in viral abundance and detect clinically significant viruses in allogeneic HSCT patients. A total of 20 patients from the Transplant Unit of the University Hospital of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo were included, with plasma samples collected at three time points: D + 0 (pre-transplantation), D + 30 (30 days post-transplantation), and D + 100 (~100 days post-transplantation). A higher presence of clinically relevant viruses, such as the cytomegalovirus (CMV), the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and adenoviruses, were predominantly detected at D + 30. The diversity of commensal viruses, primarily anelloviruses, increased gradually, with the highest abundance and variability detected at D + 100. Viruses with clinical importance for HSCT, including CMV, adenovirus and EBV, were confirmed and characterized at the molecular level, showing generally high cycle threshold values. Our findings demonstrate a rise in anellovirus abundance following allogeneic HSCT, with the highest levels observed at D + 100. Notably, D + 30 was identified as a critical time point for the reactivation of clinically significant viruses. This study underscores the potential of metagenomics in the identification of clinically relevant viruses and highlights the importance of monitoring latent viruses in immunocompromised populations, including allogeneic HSCT patients.