bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Sensor Placement for Structural Health Monitoring: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sun Zhiyan , Mahmoodian Mojtaba , Sidiq Amir , Jayasinghe Sanduni , Shahrivar Farham , Setunge Sujeeva
Published: February 2025

The structural health monitoring (SHM) of bridge infrastructure has become essential for ensuring safety, serviceability, and long-term functionality amid aging structures and increasing load demands. SHM leverages sensor networks to enable real-time data acquisition, damage detection, and predictive maintenance, offering a more reliable alternative to traditional visual inspection methods. A key challenge in SHM is optimal sensor placement (OSP), which directly impacts monitoring accuracy, cost-efficiency, and overall system performance. This review explores recent advancements in SHM techniques, sensor technologies, and OSP methodologies, with a primary focus on bridge infrastructure. It evaluates sensor configuration strategies based on criteria such as the modal assurance criterion (MAC) and mean square error (MSE) while examining optimisation approaches like the Effective Independence (EI) method, Kinetic Energy Optimisation (KEO), and their advanced variants. Despite these advancements, several research gaps remain. Future studies should focus on scalable OSP strategies for large-scale bridge networks, integrating machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) for adaptive sensor deployment. The implementation of digital twin (DT) technology in SHM can enhance predictive maintenance and real-time decision-making, improving long-term infrastructure resilience. Additionally, research on sensor robustness against environmental noise and external disturbances, as well as the integration of edge computing and wireless sensor networks (WSNs) for efficient data transmission, will be critical in advancing SHM applications. This review provides critical insights and recommendations to bridge the gap between theoretical innovations and real-world implementation, ensuring the effective monitoring and maintenance of bridge infrastructure in modern civil engineering.
Identification of Ecological Security Pattern and Ecological Restoration Zoning Strategy in the Shandong Section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal
Authors: Xu Chizhou , Jing Yande , Zhang Yiwen , Liu Yingchun , Yin Wenyang , Zhao Shiping
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: Identifying ecological security patterns and restoring the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in Shandong is vital for future ecological conservation and maintaining ecosystem sustainability. (2) Methods: The study area was selected, and the InVEST3.9.0 model was used to assess natural-environment ecosystem services. An optimal evaluation approach based on the Minimum Cumulative Resistance model was developed to define the ecological security pattern. (3) Results: There were 20 ecological source areas in the lower and east portions of the study area, mainly grasslands, forests, and water areas. Additionally, 40 ecological corridors, 48 ecological pinch points, and 75 ecological barrier points were generated, densely distributed in the east. The area was divided into five core functional zones. (4) Conclusions: Establishing ecological function zones and considering landscape changes from high-frequency human activities in spatial planning can lead to a more reasonable division of ecological restoration areas. Ecological function zone construction can enhance understanding of implementing ecological security patterns in national land planning and support national ecological security goals.
Research on the Nonlinear Relationship Between Carbon Emissions from Residential Land and the Built Environment: A Case Study of Susong County, Anhui Province Using the XGBoost-SHAP Model
Authors: Xu Congguang , Xiong Wei , Zhang Simin , Shi Hailiang , Wu Shichao , Bao Shanju , Xiao Tieqiao
Published: February 2025

Residential land is the basic unit of urban-scale carbon emissions (CEs). Quantifying and predicting CEs from residential land are conducive to achieving urban carbon neutrality. This study took 84 residential communities in Susong County, Anhui Province as its research object, exploring the nonlinear relationship between the urban built environment and CEs from residential land. By identifying CEs from residential land through building electricity consumption, 14 built environment indicators, including land area (LA), floor area ratio (FAR), greening ratio (GA), building density (BD), gross floor area (GFA), land use mix rate (Phh), and permanent population density (PPD), were selected to establish an interpretable machine learning (ML) model based on the XGBoost-SHAP attribution analysis framework. The research results show that, first, the goodness of fit of the XGBoost model reached 91.9%, and its prediction accuracy was better than that of gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT), random forest (RF), the Adaboost model, and the traditional logistic model. Second, compared with other ML models, the XGBoost-SHAP model explained the influencing factors of CEs from residential land more clearly. The SHAP attribution analysis results indicate that BD, FAR, and Phh were the most important factors affecting CEs. Third, there was a significant nonlinear relationship and threshold effect between built environment characteristic variables and CEs from residential land. Fourth, there was an interaction between different dimensions of environmental factors, and BD, FAR, and Phh played a dominant role in the interaction. Reducing FAR is considered to be an effective CE reduction strategy. This research provides practical suggestions for urban planners on reducing CEs from residential land, which has important policy implications and practical significance.
Design of a Novel Chitosan Derivatives and DOPO Flame Retardant and Its Application in Epoxy Resin
Authors: Yang Yicheng , Lu Yue , Zhan Wang , Kong Qinghong
Published: February 2025

To expand the utilization of bio-based materials as flame retardants in epoxy resin (EP), a green Schiff base structural material (CSV) was synthesized via a one-pot approach employing chitosan and vanillin as the raw materials. Then, the CSV combined with 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phospha-phenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) (the mass ratio between CSV and DOPO was 1:2, written as CSV-DOPO) improved the flame retardancy of the EP. When the amount of CSV−DOPO in the EP was only 3 wt%, the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results indicated that the residue of the EP composites was 50.6% higher than that of the EP. The combustion class of the EP/3 wt% CSV−DOPO composites achieved a UL-94 V0 rating and the limit oxygen index (LOI) reached 34.0%. The cone calorimeter test (CCT) showed that the peak heat release rate (PHHR), total heat release (THR), total smoke release (TSP), and peak carbon dioxide production (PCO2P) of the EP/3 wt% CSV−DOPO composites decreased by 32.3%, 22.0%, 4.6%, and 51.0%, respectively, compared to the EP. The flame-retardancy mechanism was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectra. The quenching effect of phosphorus-containing radicals, the dilution effect of noncombustible gases, and the impeding effect of the carbon layer in the condensed phase contributed collectively to the excellent flame retardancy of the EP/CSV−DOPO composites. Considering the facile preparation method and small addition amount of the flame retardant, the present work provides a convenient solution for the preparation of modified EP with good flame retardancy and heat stability, which is expected to be widely used in industries.
Lipid Levels and Atherogenic Indices as Important Predictive Parameters in the Assessment of Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis—Slovak Pilot Study
Authors: Kubalová Karolína , Porvazník Igor , Majherová Mária , Demková Lenka , Piotrowska Anna , Mydlárová Blaščáková Marta
Published: February 2025

Background and Objective: Tuberculosis is one of the globally prevalent infectious diseases. Lipids play a crucial role in its development as well as in other diseases of the cardiovascular system. Cardiovascular diseases significantly worsen the functional and vital prognosis of tuberculosis patients. The aim of the study was to assess the differences in lipid profile, glucose, and atherogenic markers between tuberculosis patients and healthy individuals. Materials and Methods: The project involved 34 patients diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and a control group (CG: n = 35). The following were assessed: total cholesterol (CHOL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides (TG), and glucose. Atherogenic indices: Castelli risk index I (CRI-I), Castelli risk index II (CRI-II), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and atherogenic coefficient (AC) were calculated from lipid profile parameters using appropriate formulas. Results: A statistically significant difference was found between CG and TB in the parameters CHOL, LDL and HDL (p < 0.001). Based on the calculated atherogenic indices CRI-I and AIP, people diagnosed with TB can be classified into the high cardiovascular risk group. By fitting the ROC curve, atherogenic indices were shown to be effective predictors of cardiovascular risk in people with tuberculosis. Conclusions: Atherogenic indices are useful markers for detecting cardiovascular disease in patients with tuberculosis and may help identify cardiovascular risks that might otherwise be missed.
Warm and Hot Deformation Behavior of AA6060 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Menapace Cinzia , Straffelini Giovanni
Published: February 2025

The warm and hot deformation behavior of a 6060 aluminum alloy was investigated through compression tests conducted at temperatures ranging from 100 °C to 400 °C (homologous temperature range of 0.41–0.75) and strain rates of 0.001 and 0.1 s−1. The flow stresses were correlated with strain rate and temperature using a hyperbolic sine equation, and the activation energy was calculated for both deformation regimes. The modeling parameters were linked to the active plastic deformation mechanisms: strain hardening in the warm regime and dynamic recrystallization in the hot regime. A strong correlation between the experimental and calculated data was observed when the equation was applied separately to the stresses measured in the warm and hot temperature ranges.
How Early Can Pancreatic Tumors Be Detected Using NMR-Based Urine Metabolic Profiling? Identification of Early-Stage Biomarkers of Tumor Initiation and Progression in an Orthotopic Xenograft Mouse Model of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Chihanga Tafadzwa , Xu Shenyuan , Fultz Hannah N. , Nicholson Jenna D. , Brombacher Mark D. , Hawkins Kayla , Fay Dan R. , Steil Maria M. , Ni Shuisong , Kennedy Michael A.
Published: February 2025

Background: Pancreatic cancer is the most lethal of all human cancers. The disease has no obvious symptoms in its early stages and in the majority of cases, the cancer goes undetected until it has advanced to the point that surgery is no longer a viable option or until it has metastasized to other organs. The absence of reliable and sensitive biomarkers for the early detection of pancreatic cancer contributes to the poor ability to detect the disease before it progresses to an untreatable stage. Objectives: Here, an orthotopic xenograft mouse model of pancreatic cancer was investigated to determine if urinary metabolic biomarkers could be identified and used to detect the early formation of pancreatic tumors. Methods: The orthotopic xenograft mouse model of pancreatic cancer was established by injecting human MiaPaCa-2 cells, derived from a male patient aged 65 years with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, into the pancreata of severe combined immunodeficient mice. Orthotopic pancreatic tumors, allowed to grow for eight weeks, were successfully established in the pancreata in 15 out of 20 mice. At the time of sacrifice, tumors were excised and histologically analyzed and the masses and volumes recorded. Urine samples were collected prior to injection, at one-week post injection, and every two weeks afterwards for eight weeks. Results: NMR-based metabolic profiling of the urine samples indicated that 31 metabolites changed significantly over the course of tumor initiation and growth. Longitudinal metabolic profiling analysis indicated an initial increase in activity of the metabolic pathways involved in energy production and/or cell synthesis by cancer cells as required to support tumor growth that was followed by a diminished difference between control and orthotopic mice associated with tumor senescence as the tumors reached 7–8 weeks post injection. Conclusions: The results indicate that NMR-based urinary metabolic profiling may be able to detect the earliest stages of pancreatic tumor initiation and growth, highlighting the potential for translation to human clinical studies.
Cadomian Magmatism in the Muteh–Golpaygan Area, Iran: Insights into Crustal Growth and Tectono-Magmatic Evolution
Authors: Shakerardakani Farzaneh , Xiao Wenjiao , Shafaii Moghadam Hadi , Li Xianhua
Published: February 2025

The Muteh–Golpaygan metamorphic complex, situated within the Sanandaj–Sirjan zone of Iran, represents a pivotal site for investigating the late Neoproterozoic Cadomian orogeny and its implications for crustal evolution along the northern margin of Gondwana. This study integrates geochemical, isotopic, and geochronological data to elucidate the petrogenesis, magma sources, and geodynamic significance of granitic (ortho-) gneisses from this region. The granitic gneisses are predominantly peraluminous and calc-alkaline, with A/CNK [molar Al₂O₃/(CaO + Na₂O + K₂O)] values ranging from 1.05 to 1.43. They exhibit enrichment in light rare earth elements (LREEs), flat heavy REE (HREE) patterns, and pronounced negative Eu anomalies, suggesting that the magma was derived from subduction-related melts that interacted with metasedimentary materials in the upper crust. Zircon U-Pb geochronology reveals crystallization ages of ~570–560 Ma, with inherited zircons dating back to the Neoarchean and Paleoproterozoic. Isotopic signatures, including εHf(t) values (−7.2 to +6.2) and δ18O values (+7.07‰ to +9.88‰), indicate a complex interplay between juvenile mantle-derived components and reworked crustal materials. Geodynamically, the magmatic characteristics align with an active continental margin setting driven by the subduction of the Proto-Tethys Ocean. Comparisons with coeval magmatism in the Arabian–Nubian Shield and Anatolia indicate a unified tectonic framework along the northern margin of Gondwana. This study provides critical insights into the tectono-magmatic processes of the Cadomian orogeny, emphasizing the roles of subduction dynamics, crustal recycling, and juvenile contributions in shaping the early continental lithosphere.
A Comprehensive Review of High Burn-Up Structure Formation in UO2: Mechanisms, Interactions, and Future Directions
Authors: Ge Zhenhong , Yan Dong , Lei Penghui , Yun Di
Published: February 2025

In the rim zone of UO2 nuclear fuel pellets, high burn-up and low temperatures drive changes in the microstructure, leading to the formation of high burn-up structures (HBS). This review focuses on the formation of HBS, beginning with a description of the two contentious mechanisms—recrystallization and polygonization—that are believed to be the primary controlling factors. We discuss experimental and simulation studies that support both mechanisms, emphasizing that although each mechanism can explain certain aspects of HBS formation, neither recrystallization nor polygonization alone is sufficient to fully explain the observed phenomena. Furthermore, we emphasize the intrinsic relationship between these two mechanisms, suggesting that they represent different manifestations of the same underlying process under varying conditions, and we reference relevant studies that support this perspective. Lastly, we underline the significance of investigating the formation processes of HBS and provide an outlook on future research directions based on the current state of knowledge.
Synthesis of Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) Nanowires via a Polyethylene Glycol-Based Emulsion Template Method in Isopropanol
Authors: Liu Jian , Sun Yonghua , Yang Tianfeng
Published: February 2025

Typical wet-chemical methods for the preparation of silica nanowires use polyvinylpyrrolidone and n-pentanol. This study presents a polyethylene glycol-based emulsion template method for the synthesis of SiO2 nanowires (SiO2NWs) in isopropanol. By systematically optimizing key parameters (type of solvent, polyethylene glycol molecular weight and dosage, dosage of sodium citrate, ammonium and tetraethyl orthosilicate, incubation temperature and time), SiO2NWs with diameters about 530 nm were obtained. Replacing polyvinylpyrrolidone with polyethylene glycol enabled anisotropic growth in isopropanol, overcoming the dependency on traditional solvents like n-pentanol. Scale-up experiments (10× volume) demonstrated robust reproducibility, yielding nanowires with consistent morphology (~580 nm diameter). After calcination at 500 °C for 1 h, the morphology of the nanowires did not change significantly.
Enhancing the Morpho-Structural Stability of FAPbBr3 Solar Cells via 2D Nanoscale Layer Passivation of the Perovskite Interface: An In-Situ XRD Study
Authors: Paci Barbara , Riva Flavia Righi , Generosi Amanda , Guaragno Marco , Barichello Jessica , Matteocci Fabio , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: February 2025

Despite the huge progress achieved in the optimization of perovskite solar cell (PSC) performance, stability remains a limiting factor for technological commercialization. Here, a study on the photovoltaic, structural and morphological stability of semi-transparent formamidinium lead bromide-based PSCs is presented. This work focuses on the positive role of 2D nanoscale layer passivation, induced by perovskite surface treatment with a mixture of iso-Pentylammonium chloride (ISO) and neo-Pentylammonium chloride (NEO). In situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) is applied in combination with atomic force microscopy (AFM), and the results are correlated to the devices’ photovoltaic performances. The superior power conversion efficiency and overall stability of the ISO-NEO system is evidenced, as compared to the un-passivated device, under illumination in air. Furthermore, the role of the ISO-NEO treatments in increasing the morpho-structural stability is clarified as follows: a bulk effect resulting in a protective role against the loss in crystallinity of the perovskite 3D phase (observed only for the un-passivated device) and an interface effect, being the observed 2D phase crystallinity loss spatially localized at the interface with the 3D phase where a higher concentration of defects is expected. Importantly, the complete stability of the device is achieved with the passivated ISO-NEO-encapsulated device, allowing us to exclude the intrinsic degradation effects.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide and Nicotinamide Riboside Improve Dyslipidemia and Fatty Liver but Promote Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mice
Authors: Wang Pin , Li Jia-Xin , Kong Yuan-Yuan , Zheng Si-Li , Miao Chao-Yu
Published: February 2025

Background: Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and nicotinamide riboside (NR) are intermediary products in NAD+ metabolism. NMN and NR supplementation can elevate NAD+ levels in tissues, addressing health issues associated with aging and obesity. However, the impact of NMN and NR on atherosclerosis remains incompletely elucidated. Methods: C57BL/6J and Apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE−/−) mice were used to explore the impact of NMN and NR supplementation on serum lipids, fatty liver, and atherosclerosis. Additionally, various suppliers, administration protocols, and doses on ApoE−/− mice were investigated. Results: The intragastric administration of NMN (300 mg/kg) and NR (230 mg/kg) reduced body weight, serum lipids, and fatty liver but aggravated atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice after 4 months of administration with different suppliers. Atherosclerosis also deteriorated after 2 months of different NMN administration protocols (intragastric and water administration) in ApoE−/− mice with existing plaques. The effects of NMN were dose-dependent, and doses around 100 mg/kg had little harmful effects on atherosclerosis. Conclusions: NMN and NR improve dyslipidemia and fatty liver but promote atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice. These findings emphasize the safe dosage for the clinical trials of NMN.
Artificial Intelligence Models and Tools for the Assessment of Drug–Herb Interactions
Authors: Spanakis Marios , Tzamali Eleftheria , Tzedakis Georgios , Koumpouzi Chryssalenia , Pediaditis Matthew , Tsatsakis Aristides , Sakkalis Vangelis
Published: February 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool in medical sciences that is revolutionizing various fields of drug research. AI algorithms can analyze large-scale biological data and identify molecular targets and pathways advancing pharmacological knowledge. An especially promising area is the assessment of drug interactions. The AI analysis of large datasets, such as drugs’ chemical structure, pharmacological properties, molecular pathways, and known interaction patterns, can provide mechanistic insights and identify potential associations by integrating all this complex information and returning potential risks associated with these interactions. In this context, an area where AI may prove valuable is in the assessment of the underlying mechanisms of drug interactions with natural products (i.e., herbs) that are used as dietary supplements. These products pose a challenging problem since they are complex mixtures of constituents with diverse and limited information regarding their pharmacological properties, especially their pharmacokinetic data. As the use of herbal products and supplements continues to grow, it becomes increasingly important to understand the potential interactions between them and conventional drugs and the associated adverse drug reactions. This review will discuss AI approaches and how they can be exploited in providing valuable mechanistic insights regarding the prediction of interactions between drugs and herbs, and their potential exploitation in experimental validation or clinical utilization.
Rethinking Clinical Trials in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: How AI-Based OCT Analysis Can Support Successful Outcomes
Authors: Enzendorfer Marie Louise , Tratnig-Frankl Merle , Eidenberger Anna , Schrittwieser Johannes , Kuchernig Lukas , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula
Published: February 2025

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness in the developed world. Due to an aging population, its prevalence is expected to increase, making novel and optimized therapy options imperative. However, both late-stage forms of the disease, neovascular AMD (nAMD) and geographic atrophy (GA), exhibit considerable variability in disease progression and treatment response, complicating the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and making it difficult to design clinical trials that are both inclusive and statistically robust. Traditional trial designs frequently rely on generalized endpoints that may not fully capture the nuanced benefits of treatment, particularly in diseases like GA, where functional improvements can be gradual or subtle. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to address these issues by identifying novel, condition-specific biomarkers or endpoints, enabling precise patient stratification and improving recruitment strategies. By providing an overview of the advances and application of AI-based optical coherence tomography analysis in the context of AMD clinical trials, this review highlights the transformative potential of AI in optimizing clinical trial outcomes for patients with nAMD or GA secondary to AMD.
Formulation Development of Natural Polymeric Nanoparticles, In Vitro Antiaging Evaluation, and Metabolite Profiling of Toona sinensis Leaf Extracts
Authors: Lestari Uce , Muhaimin Muhaimin , Chaerunisaa Anis Yohana , Sujarwo Wawan
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Natural polymer nanoparticles have potential as delivery systems, can enhance pharmacological activity, and can improve stability in the cosmetic field. In this research, we implemented a development approach for chitosan–alginate and chitosan–pectin nanoparticles. This study aimed to investigate effect of formulation, process variables, in vitro antiaging evaluation, and metabolite profiling of Toona sinensis leaf extracts. Methods: Polymeric nanoparticles have been prepared using the ionic gelation method (Temperature = 40 °C, time = 1 h and speed = 1000 rpm), in vitro antiaging evaluation using the Neutrophil Elastase Inhibitor Screening Kit method, and analysis of metabolite profiling with UHPLC–HRMS. Results: Research results found that the SLE and EAFSL nanoparticles that have good and stable characteristics before and after storage in a climatic chamber after 3 months are FIIA-NPSLE (0.75% chitosan and 1.25% Alginate), FIP-NPSLE (1% chitosan and 0.5% Pectin), FIIA-NPEAFSL (0.75% chitosan and 1.25% Alginate), and FIIIP-NPEAFSL (0.125% chitosan and 0.375% Alginate). Chitosan–alginate polymers, such as FIIA-NPEAFSL, have higher inhibition of the elastase enzyme than FIIA-NPSLE, with a % inhibition (IC50) of FIIA-NPEAFSL being 87.30%, while the IC50 of FIIA-NPSLE is 39.40%. Meanwhile, using chitosan–pectin polymers, such as FIP-NPSLE, results in lower inhibition of the elastase enzyme compared to the chitosan–alginate polymer, with an IC50 of 27.28% while IC50 FIIIP-NPEAFSL is 39.53%. SLE and EAFSL nanoparticles with chitosan–alginate and chitosan–pectin polymers resulted in a significant PDI during storage from 1.3 to 1.9, and zeta potential values were very low, ranging from −11 mV to −27 mV. Metabolite profiling using UHPLC–HRMS on T. sinensis leaf extracts revealed that the main compounds contained were glycitein, quercetin, quercetin-3β-D-glucoside, kaempferol, and ellagic acid, which has potential as an antiaging agent. Conclusions: It can be concluded that using chitosan, alginate, and pectin in the process of encapsulating extracts into nanoparticles with the same process variables affect evaluation of antiaging activity in elastase enzymes. Further research will develop these nanoparticles into nanohydrogels with antiaging activity.
Improved Accuracy of the 3D Measurement Method Utilizing Differential Modulation Based on Multi-Color Channel Fusion
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhu Xusheng , Zhou Hexiang , Xu Long , Zhou Xinming , Liu Wei
Published: February 2025

The traditional structured light illumination measurement method usually utilizes peak detection and curve fitting to extract the target position of the modulation curve, while the modulation function is extremely insensitive to the variation of the peak position with height, which leads to the inability to further improve the measurement accuracy. Meanwhile, in the dual CCD detection system, there are problems such as signal matching, image matching, and difficult control of differential variables, which are also major difficulties and challenges. An improved-accuracy measurement method utilizing differential modulation based on multi-color channel fusion is proposed in this article, which adopts color CCD instead of black and white CCD in traditional measurement systems. By constructing a differential modulation measurement model and using the linear region with the highest slope of the differential modulation curve, the target position can be extracted based on the zero point localization method instead of the traditional peak localization method, which can successfully achieve further improvement in measurement accuracy. Simulation and experiments are carried out to verify the feasibility of the proposed method.
Research on the High Tolerance Flexible Support Structure for the Primary Mirror in Cassegrain Optical Systems
Authors: Wu Wenshuo , Lin Guanyu , Zhang Zihui , Zhu Junqing , Li Jifeng , He Limin
Published: February 2025

Conventional mirror support structures often fail to meet optical system tolerances due to inadequate mitigation of the installation stresses caused by machining-induced surface irregularities and inclinations. This study proposes a novel single-point central support using an arc-shaped flexible hinge. Materials for the mirror and support structure are carefully selected based on their properties, and the optimal dimensions are determined through stiffness analysis. The new flexible support structure is detailed in this work. Simulations show that the mirror assembly achieves a first-order frequency of 296.66 Hz. Under separate triaxial gravitational and thermal loads at −40 °C and 50 °C, the mirror’s surface figure accuracy RMS remains better than λ/45 (λ = 632.8 nm). With a 0.008 mm forced displacement applied to the installation surface, the RMS change in the mirror’s surface figure is less than λ/200, meeting structural design specifications. In practical assembly tests, even when surface irregularities exceed tolerances by more than double, the RMS change in the mirror’s surface figure is only 7 nm. This design effectively ensures high-precision surface quality while significantly reducing assembly difficulty and installation surface precision requirements, achieving a large-tolerance assembly. It provides a valuable reference for mirror support design in imaging optical systems.
Multiomic Analysis of Environmental Effects and Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Two Potato Varieties Under High Nitrogen Conditions
Authors: Gao Shuo , Wei Guowei , Chang Yuan , Yin Yanbin , Wei Qiaorong , Shi Ying
Published: February 2025

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) has high nutritional value and strong adaptability and plays an extremely important role in global food security. Excessive use of nitrogen (N) fertilizer in potato production has increased costs and environmental pollution. In this study, the N use efficiency (NUE) of two potato varieties (DXY and DN310) was determined under high nitrogen conditions. The N use efficiency of DXY was relatively high. The differences between the rhizosphere microbial population groups of the two varieties were determined using the metagenomic sequencing method. The genes related to N efficiency were jointly identified using transcriptome and metabolome analyses. Significant difference was observed between the two varieties of microorganisms, leading to different rhizosphere microorganisms. Compared with DN310, the roots of DXY retained more available N and generated less NO. Additionally, DXY exhibited relatively low disease susceptibility. Combined transcriptome and metabolome analyses indicated that the differentially expressed metabolites in the two different varieties under high N conditions were mainly enriched in amino acid metabolism and sugar metabolism pathways. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis, two genes associated with N fertilizer response were identified: PGSC0003DMG400025888 and PGSC0003DMG400017276. This study provided valuable insights into breeding potato varieties with high N efficiency.
Efficacy of Selected Bacterial Strains in the Protection and Growth Stimulation of Winter Wheat and Maize
Authors: Filipczak Arkadiusz , Sobiech Łukasz , Wita Agnieszka , Marecik Roman , Białas Wojciech , Drożdżyńska Agnieszka , Grzanka Monika , Danielewicz Jakub , Szulc Piotr
Published: February 2025

The use of biopreparations currently plays a significant role in limiting the use of plant protection products and fertilizers. In this study, preparations based on Bacillus velezensis_KT27, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Pseudomonas synxatha, and a mixture of Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas simiae, and Bacillus velezensis_S103, used as seed dressings at doses of 0.5 L and 1.0 L × 100 kg−1 grain, were tested to determine their efficacy. The prothioconazole preparation was used for comparison as a synthetic fungicide. The test microorganisms were prepared as standardized preparations diluted with sterile water to obtain a final cell concentration of 5 × 108 CFU/mL for each bacterial strain. The ability of selected bacterial strains to solubilize phosphate was quantitatively evaluated as one of the factors influencing the stimulation of crop growth. The obtained results indicate that the microorganisms can reduce the infection in seedlings, and the health of those seedlings depends on the preparation used and its dose. The tested microorganisms had a positive effect on plant growth, which was confirmed by the analyses of plant height, fresh mass, and chlorophyll fluorescence. The results indicate that the selected strains of microorganisms Bacillus ssp., Paenibacillus ssp., and Pseudomonas ssp. may be used in the protection and growth stimulation of crop plants, but this needs to be verified by field tests prior to their practical application.
Endogenous Hormone Regulation During Key Developmental Stages of Pinus koraiensis Siebold & Zucc. Ovules
Authors: Liu Xueqing , Yu Xiaoqian , Yang Ling
Published: February 2025

In this study, the morphological and anatomical characteristics of the growth of the internal ovules and the dynamic changes in the content of endogenous hormones during the development of Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis Siebold & Zucc.) cones were investigated in detail and their interrelationships determined. In addition, morphological examinations, paraffin section, analysis and enzyme immunoassays were performed to observe the growth and development as well as the fertilization stages of the ovules of P. koraiensis from July of the pollination year to June of the following year. From July of the pollination year to May of the next year, the increase in the content of indoleacetic acid (IAA) and gibberellin and a decrease in the content of abscisic acid (ABA) in the pollination year correlated with the division of the gametophyte free nuclei. It was observed that the levels of IAA, ABA, zeatin riboside (ZR) and isopentenyl adenosine (IPA) initially decreased and then increased during overwintering, which was interpreted as a symptom of adaptation of P. koraiensis ovules to low temperatures. At the end of overwintering, the increase in IPA, ZR and ABA levels was associated with the development of the female gametophyte. The week before fertilization was identified as the stage of oocyte division, in which growth-promoting hormones dominate. During the week of fertilization, the increase in the level of growth-inhibiting hormones correlated with fertilization. After fertilization, the increase in the level of growth-promoting hormones also correlated with early embryonic development. The levels of endogenous hormones were observed to change dynamically with the development of P. koraiensis oocytes, indicating their important role. The results of this study provide the morphological and anatomical basis for related studies on the development of the ovarian strobilus in gymnosperms.
Chitosan as a Plurivalent Biopolymer in Nanodelivery Systems
Authors: Dabija Marius Gabriel , Olaru Iulia , Ciuhodaru Tudor , Stefanache Alina , Mihai Cozmin , Lungu Ionut Iulian , Calin Gabriela , Stadoleanu Carmen , Damir Daniela Liliana
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: This review study will delve into the potential of chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) as adaptable carriers for targeted drug delivery in different therapeutic areas. Chitosan is a biopolymer derived from chitin that has attracted interest in drug delivery applications because of its high biocompatibility and biodegradability. (2) Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted by following a careful systematized protocol for searching databases like PubMed, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect. (3) Results: Chitosan NPs are good drug delivery vehicles, notably for cancer. Studies reveal that doxorubicin-loaded chitosan NPs dramatically enhance toxicity to tumor cells compared to free medicines, yielding tumor suppression rates of up to 60%. Researchers found that chemotherapeutics had an 85% encapsulation efficiency (EE), lowering systemic toxicity. Magnetic and pH-responsive chitosan NPs boost drug accumulation by 63% and apoptosis by 54%. Chitosan also boosts medication retention in the lungs by 2.3×, per pulmonary delivery trials. Chitosan NPs also boost ocular medication bioavailability by 3× and improve nasal absorption by 30%, crossing the blood–brain barrier. For bone regeneration, chitosan scaffolds enhance bone mineral density by 46%, facilitating osteogenesis and healing. (4) Conclusions: NPs made of chitosan provide a solid foundation for improving drug delivery systems; yet there are still issues with material variability, scalability, and meeting regulatory requirements that need fixing. Research into combination treatments, ways to increase their specificity, and ways to optimize these NPs offers promising prospects for the creation of novel therapeutic approaches with the potential to improve patient outcomes.
Current Trends for Cementation in Prosthodontics: Part 1—The Substrate
Authors: Maravic Tatjana , Mazzitelli Claudia , Mayer-Santos Eric , Mancuso Edoardo , Gracis Stefano , Breschi Lorenzo , Fuzzi Massimo
Published: February 2025

With the vast possibilities of restorative dentistry nowadays and the constant development and release of restorative materials with improved mechanical and esthetical properties, there is a growing body of research on adhesive systems and cementation materials, as well as the adequate choices thereof in everyday clinical practice. There are high demands from the dental cements with regard to their adhesion to various substrates and restorative materials, their mechanical properties, resistance to dissolution in the oral environment, esthetic considerations, etc. A material that meets all these requirements is not yet available, and each available material presents certain shortcomings. However, thanks to the advancements in dental material research, polymers-based cements have gained admirable mechanical and esthetic properties, as well as versatility. With the plethora of products available on the market, clinicians are often faced with difficulties in the choice of a material adequate for certain clinical situations. Indeed, important factors to consider are the substrate for cementation and the restoration material. The aim of this review was to provide clear and literature-based clinical recommendations for the adequate cementation of prosthodontic restorations with regard to the cementation substrate. Considering that there is no gold standard protocol applicable in all clinical cases, since the properties of the cementation abutment could substantially differ, important individual considerations must be made for each situation.
High-Accuracy and Real-Time Fingerprint-Based Continual Learning Localization System in Dynamic Environment
Authors: Zhao Hongxiu , Njima Wafa , Zhang Xun
Published: February 2025

In dynamic environments, localization accuracy often deteriorates due to an outdated or invalid database. Traditional approaches typically use Transfer Learning (TL) to address this issue, but TL suffers from the problem of catastrophic forgetting. This paper proposes a fingerprint-based Continual Learning (CL) localization system designed to retain old data while enhancing the accuracy for new data. The system works by rehearsing parameters in the lower network layers and reducing the training rate in the upper layers. Simulations conducted with fused data show that the proposed approach improves accuracy by 16% for new data and 29% for old data compared to TL in smaller rooms. In larger rooms, it achieves a 14% improvement for new data and a 44% improvement for old data over TL. These results demonstrate that the proposed CL approach not only enhances localization accuracy but also effectively mitigates the issue of catastrophic forgetting.
Deep Learning-Based Recognition and Classification of Soiled Photovoltaic Modules Using HALCON Software for Solar Cleaning Robots
Authors: Ahmed Shoaib , Rashid Haroon , Qadir Zakria , Tayyab Qudratullah , Senjyu Tomonobu , Elkholy M. H.
Published: February 2025

The global installation capacity of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is exponentially increasing. However, the accumulation of soil and debris on solar panels significantly reduces their efficiency, necessitating frequent cleaning to maintain optimal energy output. This study presents a deep learning-based approach for the recognition and classification of soiled PV images, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of solar cleaning robots through the HALCON software framework. Using EANN and CNN architecture along with advanced image processing techniques, the proposed system achieves precise detection and classification of soiling patterns. The HALCON framework facilitates image acquisition, preprocessing, segmentation, and deployment of trained models for robotic control. The trained models demonstrate exceptional accuracy, with the EANN and CNN achieving classification precision of 99.87% and 99.91%, respectively. Experimental results highlight the system’s potential to improve automation of cleaning strategies, reduce unnecessary cleaning cycles, and enhance the overall performance of solar panels. This research underscores the transformative role of intelligent visual analysis in optimizing maintenance practices for renewable energy applications.
Seedling Emergence and Soil Seedbank Persistence of the Invasive Azadirachta indica A. Juss
Authors: Brooks Simon J. , Bebawi Faiz F. , Brazier Dannielle A. , Gough Kirsty L. , Campbell Shane D.
Published: February 2025

Azadirachta indica (Neem tree) has become widely naturalised and invasive across many countries and regions including northern Australia. To aid management of A. indica where it has become a weed, a series of studies were undertaken to determine its potential soil seed bank persistence. In a field trial, packets of seeds were buried, retrieved periodically over two years and the seed viability assessed. Viability declined rapidly, with a single viable seed retrieved after 12 months burial and none thereafter. Burial depth, soil type, and pasture cover (present and excluded) significantly influenced viability (%) at 3- and 6-month retrievals. Similar data were obtained from repeated runs of a controlled ageing laboratory experiment, which categorized seeds as forming a ‘transient’ seed bank. In a third trial, fresh fruits were placed on the soil surface in replicated field enclosures over two consecutive years and seedling emergence monitored fortnightly. In both years there was no emergence from pasture excluded soil plots and emergence ceased after 2.3 and 8.4 months in plots with pasture present. A fourth (glasshouse) trial found most seeds will emerge from the soil when buried from 1 to 4 cm. However, more fatal germination than successful emergence was recorded for seeds buried at 8 cm. Seed desiccation and fatal germination are factors in A. indica developing a transient soil seed bank, and infestations require shorter-term control programs where seed input is prevented.
The Survival Line: A Case Study in Anti-Carceral Community-Based Hotline Work
Authors: Suslovic Brianna J.
Published: February 2025

Community members seeking alternatives to policing have played a substantive role in promoting safety and responding to harm for decades. The Survival Line was formed as a volunteer-run hotline to respond to community members’ concerns about neighborhood crime or police misconduct. It was established in the summer of 1970 as a mechanism for gathering data while also referring callers to community resources like pro bono attorneys and low-cost social services. It ran as a 24/7 hotline staffed entirely by volunteers from the Action for Survival coalition, a group of community-based organizations, which included the Chicago Urban League. Using historical analytic methods, this study asks the following: what function did this citizen-run hotline serve in 1970s Chicago? This study mobilizes archival research methods to analyze call records, meeting minutes, publicity materials, and internal memos from the Chicago Urban League and its Survival Line archives. This archival analysis found that the Survival Line served multiple functions; it was a non-state response to urban crises, a vehicle for Black solidarity, and a mechanism for gathering data on crime and police misconduct in the city. By functioning as an alternative to policing and state responses to crime, a vehicle for Black neighborhood solidarity, and a data collection mechanism, the Survival Line was at the core of an impactful micropolitical intervention upon urban crises in 1970s Chicago. As a historical example of community-driven violence and crisis response, this hotline has implications for contemporary social work—specifically for direct practice, community organizing, program design and evaluation, and community-based participatory research.
The Effect of Task-Oriented Basketball Training on Motor Skill-Related Fitness in Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Farhat Faiçal , Ammar Achraf , Mezghani Nourhen , Kammoun Mohamed Moncef , Trabelsi Khaled , Gharbi Adnene , Sallemi Lassad , Rebai Haithem , Moalla Wassim , Smits-Engelsman Bouwien
Published: February 2025

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. DCD is classified as a motor learning deficit because it interferes with the ability to learn and automate movement skills. There is a lack of information on how these children acquire complex motor skills relevant to their daily recreational or sports activities. Evidence to guide physical trainers, educators, and health professionals to select an effective type of training to improve physical fitness for children with poor motor coordination is scarce. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of an 8-week task-oriented basketball training program on motor coordination and motor skill-related fitness for DCD children in the school context. Motor performance and motor skill-related fitness were evaluated before and after the intervention using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 (MABC-2) and Performance and Fitness Test Battery (PERF-FIT). A total of 52 children with DCD aged 8 to 9 were invited to join the intervention. Parents of 18 children accepted for their child to participate in the training program. In the remaining children, 20 identified as the most similar based on the diagnostic criteria for DCD (DSM-5) and anthropometric features (age, BMI) and were asked to participate as the usual care group. The difference in improvement on the MABC-2 and the PERF-FIT between the two groups on the two test occasions was compared using Mann–Whitney U tests. Within-group pre-post comparison on these test items was performed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Significant differences in all performance scores were found in favor of the training group. Post-hoc analysis revealed that the DCD training group improved significantly on MABC-2 total and subscores (p < 0.001) and on all PERF-FIT items (p < 0.001). No significant changes were found on any of the test items in the DCD usual care group. Group-based training in a more natural environment (playing games with peers in school) might help children with DCD as an adjunct to or before individual therapy. Based on our findings, we believe it is possible to work in large groups (n = 18), led by trained physical education teachers and special educators, to lessen the impact of motor coordination and physical fitness problems in children with neurodevelopmental disorders so that they can participate more easily in active games. Results of the usual care group showed that extra instruction and practice are needed for children with DCD.