bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Taxonomic and Phylogenetic Contribution on Inosperma Section Inosperma (Agaricales, Inocybaceae) in Europe: Calamistratum and Geraniodorum Groups
Authors: Esteve-Raventós Fernando , Larsson Ellen , Pancorbo Fermín , Bizio Enrico , Altés Alberto , Turégano Yolanda , Moreno Gabriel , Olariaga Ibai
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to carry out a taxonomic revision of the groups Calamistratum and Geraniodorum of the genus Inosperma sect. Inosperma in Europe. For this purpose, a multigenic phylogenetic analysis was carried out using the ITS, LSU, RPB1 and RPB2 markers, covering a total of 111 sequences, including those generated from the existing type-material collections. This analysis led to the recognition of nine clades or terminal groups for the European continent, correlating with nine morphological species. Three of them, I. calamistratum, I. neohirsutum sp. nov. and I. turietoense sp. nov., are distributed in humid and temperate forests, whereas I. geminum sp. nov., I. geraniodorum, I. gracilentum sp. nov., I. praetermissum comb. nov., I. subhirsutum and I. veliferum seem to be restricted to the colder altimontane, boreal and alpine climates. It is concluded that the study of morphological and ecological characteristics allows the recognition of species without the need for an often-subjective interpretation of organoleptic characteristics. Inocybe hirsuta is considered a synonym of Inosperma calamistratum, Inosperma praetermissum as a different species from I. calamistratum, and Inocybe geraniodora var. gracilenta f. salicis-herbaceae as a synonym of I. praetermissum. Four new species and one new combination are proposed. A key for the recognition of the European species is provided. Illustrations and photographs of macro- and micromorphological characters and SEM spores of all species are presented.
Application of Stem Cells Shows Antiinflammatory Effect in an Irradiated Random Pattern Flap Model
Authors: Müller-Seubert Wibke , Fuchs Lena , Horch Raymund E. , Distel Luitpold , Frey Benjamin , Renno Isabell , Erber Ramona , Arkudas Andreas
Published: May 2024

Background: In reconstructive surgery, local flaps might develop tissue necrosis or partial flap loss especially after previous irradiation, which may be necessary in many tumor entities. The application of stem cells seems promising to improve flap perfusion and might be a possible solution to optimize flap survival. Methods: Twenty rats received harvesting of bilateral random pattern fasciocutaneous flaps. The right flaps received 20 Gy ionizing radiation 4 weeks prior to the surgery, while the left flaps served as the non-irradiated control. After flap harvest, four different stem cell mixtures (5 × 106 ASC, ASC-HUVEC, MSC, MSC-HUVEC) were applied under both right and left flaps using 1 mL fibrin glue as the delivery vehicle. Flap size and its necrotic area were examined clinically. Two weeks after the surgery, HE staining and immunohistochemical staining for CD68 and ERG, as well as PCR analysis (Interleukin 6, HIF-1α and VEGF), were performed. Results: Application of ASCs, ASCs-HUVECs and MSCs resulted in a lower number of CD68-stained cells compared to the no cell group. The expression of Hif1α was higher in the ASC group compared to those in the MSC and previously treated no cell groups. Treatment with MSCs and MSCs-HUVECs prevented shrinking of the flaps in this series. Conclusion: Application of ASCs, MSCs and ASCs-HUVECs was shown to have an antiinflammatory effect. Treatment with MSCs and MSCs-HUVECs can prevent early shrinking of the flaps.
Advances in Molecular and Genetic Technologies and the Problems Related to Their Application in Personalized Medicine
Authors: Nakhod Valeriya , Krivenko Anton , Butkova Tatiana , Malsagova Kristina , Kaysheva Anna
Published: May 2024

Advances in the global personalized medicine market are directly related to innovations and developments in molecular and genetic technologies. This review focuses on the key trends in the development of these technologies in the healthcare sector. The existing global developments having an impact on the evolution of the personalized medicine market are reviewed. Efficient measures to support the development of molecular and genetic technologies are proposed.
Vasculopathy Augments Cardiovascular Risk in Community-Dwelling Elderly with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Maimaitiaili Rusitanmujiang , Zhao Song , Teliewubai Jiadela , Yu Shikai , Meng Weilun , Zhao Yifan , Xu Yawei , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate the impact of various vasculopathies alongside left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) on cardiovascular risk in the elderly. This prospective cohort study included 3339 older adults from the Northern Shanghai Study, classified into four mutually exclusive left ventricular (LV) geometry groups based on echocardiographic data: normal geometry, concentric remodeling, eccentric hypertrophy, and concentric hypertrophy. Vasculopathy was categorized into three primary types: arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, and renal senescence. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) were defined as non-fatal acute myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, and cardiovascular deaths according to ICD-10 codes. Over a median follow-up period of 5.7 years, 221 incident cases of MACEs were identified. Concentric hypertrophy exhibited the highest prevalence of hypertension, the most significant increase in vascular stiffness, and the highest rate of MACEs. The adjusted Cox regression analysis showed that eccentric hypertrophy is associated with an increased risk of MACEs (HR: 1.638 [95% CI: 1.151–2.331], p = 0.006), while concentric hypertrophy shows an even higher risk (HR: 1.751 [95% CI: 1.127–2.721], p = 0.013). Conversely, concentric remodeling was not significantly associated with an increased risk of MACEs. Renal senescence presents a moderate but significant risk for MACEs, with an HR of 1.361 (95% CI: 1.019–1.819; p = 0.037) when adjusted for LVH. The Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients with LVH and multiple vasculopathies experience the most significant decrease in survival probability (log-rank p < 0.001). The subgroup analysis revealed that LVH significantly raises the risk of MACEs, especially in older males with hypertension, diabetes, or vasculopathy. This study reinforces the importance of LVH as a predictor of adverse cardiovascular outcomes and underscores the compounded risk associated with the presence of multiple vasculopathies. Additionally, it highlights renal senescence as a distinct and independent risk factor for MACEs, separate from LVH.
In Absentia—Can a Lack of Behaviour Be a Useful Welfare Indicator? An Application to the Captive Management of Livingstone’s Fruit Bats, Pteropus livingstonii
Authors: Edwards Morgan J. , Hosie Charlotte A. , Naidenov Laura , Price Eluned , Smith Tessa E. , Wormell Dominic , Stanley Christina R.
Published: May 2024

Non-invasive behavioural indicators of welfare can be particularly useful for managing captive breeding populations of endangered species; these allow individual welfare to be monitored and reproductive success maximised without the need for capture and restraint methods. However, most studies focus on the behaviours whose presence or frequency can predict welfare issues; the absence of a behaviour is less frequently considered an indicator of welfare. Here, we investigate potential behavioural correlates with welfare-related health states in captive Livingstone’s fruit bats (Pteropus livingstonii), a critically endangered species that can become obese due to restricted space and reduced activity rates compared with wild populations. In this study, behavioural data were collected on males (which are particularly prone to obesity). Hurdle models were used to separately determine the factors predicting the presence or absence of behaviour and the frequency of observed behaviours. Whilst significantly lower levels of vigilance were observed in males with a larger body mass, those with diagnosed health issues were significantly more likely to show an absence of locomotion and foraging behaviour. Males with a lower body mass were also more likely to show an absence of foraging behaviour. Our study demonstrates how the absence of a behaviour can be informative as to an individual’s welfare state. This study has identified behavioural profiles that can be used to flag at-risk individuals, reducing the need for potentially stressful handling and improving our ability to safeguard the welfare of individuals within a large captive group.
Exogenous and Endogenous Molecules Potentially Proficient to Modulate Mitophagy in Cardiac Disorders
Authors: Nakashima Moeka , Suga Naoko , Matsuda Satoru
Published: May 2024

It has been proposed that procedures which upregulate mitochondrial biogenesis and autophagy by replacing damaged mitochondria with healthy ones may prevent the development of several heart diseases. A member of serine and threonine kinases, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), could play essential roles in the autophagy and/or mitophagy. AMPK is widely distributed in various cells, which might play diverse regulatory roles in different tissues and/or organs. In fact, changes in the kinase function of AMPK due to alteration of activity have been linked with diverse pathologies including cardiac disorders. AMPK can regulate mitochondrial biogenesis via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α) signaling and also improve oxidative mitochondrial metabolism through inhibition of mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, which may also modulate the autophagy/mitophagy through autophagy activating kinase 1 (ULK1) and/or transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling. Therefore, the modulation of AMPK in autophagy/mitophagy pathway might probably be thought as a therapeutic tactic for several cardiac disorders. As kinases are amongst the most controllable proteins, in general, the design of small molecules targeting kinases might be an eye-catching avenue to modulate cardiac function. Some analyses of the molecular biology underlying mitophagy suggest that nutraceuticals and/or drugs including specific AMPK modulator as well as physical exercise and/or dietary restriction that could modulate AMPK may be useful against several heart diseases. These observations may virtually be limited to preclinical studies. Come to think of these, however, it is speculated that some nutraceutical regimens might have positive potential for managing some of cardiac disorders.
Chinese Coastal Fishing Ports Classification Based on Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Liu Zun , Luan Weixin , Tian Chuang , Shi Zhipeng , Cao Gai
Published: May 2024

Fishing ports are important fishery production platforms, and the transformation of these has had a profound impact on the fishing industry. A reasonable classification solution is crucial for scientific understanding, development, and management of fishing ports. Current research on the use of spatial distributional characterization and the construction of a classification system for fishing ports to improve their management is limited. Therefore, in this study, a fishing port classification system was constructed using remote sensing images, with fishing port boundaries accurately extracted for classification. Using graphical summarization, fishing ports were classified into five types, including inland, estuarine, shoreline, gulf, and islands. A port type identification system was also constructed based on distance from the shoreline, water area, and circulation. Finally, fishing port characteristics and differences were investigated based on spatial superposition. The results demonstrate that shoreline and gulf types are the most prevalent fishing port types along the Chinese coast, accounting for 43% and 26% of the total number of fishing ports, respectively. This provides a strong foundation for China’s fishery production, processing, and trade. Through the establishment of a comprehensive scientific classification system, fishing port management can be modernized, supporting the sustainable development and utilization of coastal zones.
The Spatial Pattern of Polluting Enterprises and the Effects of Local Regulation in the Guanzhong Plain Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Dang Xing , Ma Beibei , Xue Dongqian , Song Yongyong , Robinson Guy M.
Published: May 2024

In the context of actively undertaking the transfer of domestic and foreign industries in the central and western regions of China, local regulatory behaviors influence the spatial distribution of polluting enterprises (PEs). This study examined the Guanzhong Plain urban agglomeration (GPUA), the largest urban agglomeration in the northwest region of China and one of the main regions that undertakes industrial transfer, using kernel density estimation and geographically and temporally weighted regression to explore the spatial pattern characteristics and evolution of PEs and reveal the effects of local regulatory behaviors, including environmental regulation (ER) and local protection (LP). The results indicate that (1) The distribution of the PEs tended towards energy and mineral resources and agglomerated along the development axes, aligning with the strategic positioning of the major function-oriented zones. Agglomerated areas gradually concentrate in key development zones. Major agricultural production zones exit high-density areas, and those adjacent to high-density areas often become secondary agglomeration core areas. Key ecological functional zones do not form high-density areas. (2) Both ER and LP have a positive impact on the distribution of PEs, and the dominant influence shifts from ER to LP. Counties with strict ER have increased the tendency of PEs to exhibit a certain layout due to better pollution treatment facilities and more mature pollution control technologies. The “pollution haven effect” has not yet formed within the GPUA. (3) The role of LP was more prominent in key development zones and major agricultural production zones, whereas the role of ER was more evident in key ecological functional zones. (4) RE and LP have mutually reinforcing effects on the distribution of PEs; the “innovation compensation effect” gradually manifests, but an increase in ER leads to a decrease in regional industrial clustering. This study provides a reference value for understanding the impact of government regulation on the distribution of PEs in underdeveloped areas.
Ecuadorians in NYC: Language and Cultural Practices of a Community in the Diaspora
Authors: Puma Ninacuri Christian , Gubitosi Patricia
Published: May 2024

Given that Ecuadorians are one of the largest groups of Hispanics living in New York, they have become a tight community that they now call little Ecuador. Although Ecuadorians living in the diaspora in NYC come from different parts of the country (mostly from the Andean region), they share the same cultural practices they performed in Ecuador that give them the sense of being in their country without bearing the instability and turmoil their country experiences. This shows how the group has fostered a sense of a multifaceted, multidimensional simultaneity between the host country and the motherland. The goal of this paper is to analyze the strategies Ecuadorian migrants use to validate their language and cultural practices to negotiate their identity as a group. Data for this paper come from ethnographic observations, semi-spontaneous conversations, oral interviews with members of the group, along with pictures taken while walking the community and participating in some of their events. Our study reveals that participants hold varying perceptions regarding their linguistic and cultural practices. However, it is noteworthy that they recognize these practices as a manifestation of Ecuadorianness, signifying a sense of solidarity among community members.
Abdominal Parietal Metastasis from Cervical Cancer: A Review of One of the Most Uncommon Sites of Recurrence Including a Report of a New Case
Authors: Dicu-Andreescu Irinel-Gabriel , Marincaș Marian-Augustin , Simionescu Anca-Angela , Dicu-Andreescu Ioana , Prunoiu Virgiliu-Mihail , Ionescu Sânziana-Octavia , Neicu Ștefania-Ariana , Radu Gabriela-Mădălina , Brătucu Eugen , Simion Laurențiu
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, the highest mortality being found in low- and middle-income countries. Abdominal parietal metastases in cervical cancer are a very rare entity, with an incidence of 0.1–1.3%, and represent an unfavorable prognostic factor with the survival rate falling to 17%. Here, we present a review of cases of abdominal parietal metastasis in recent decades, including a new case of a 4.5 cm abdominal parietal metastasis at the site of the scar of the former drain tube 28 months after diagnosis of stage IIB cervical cancer (adenosquamous carcinoma), treated by external radiotherapy with concurrent chemotherapy and intracavitary brachytherapy and subsequent surgery (type B radical hysterectomy). The tumor was resected within oncological limits with the histopathological result of adenosquamous carcinoma. The case study highlights the importance of early detection and appropriate treatment of metastases in patients with cervical cancer. The discussion explores the potential pathways for parietal metastasis and the impact of incomplete surgical procedures on the development of metastases. The conclusion emphasizes the poor prognosis associated with this type of metastasis in cervical cancer patients and the potential benefits of surgical resection associated with systemic therapy in improving survival rates.
Editorial on the Special Issue “Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)”
Authors: Chaidas Konstantinos
Published: May 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep-disordered breathing and is characterized by recurrent episodes of complete or partial upper airway obstruction during sleep, resulting in oxygen desaturation, autonomic dysfunction and sleep fragmentation [...]
Analysis of Lubrication Regimes for Porous Sliding Bearing
Authors: Marinković Aleksandar , Stojanović Blaža , Gachot Carsten , Lazović Tatjana
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the lubrication quality of porous sliding bearings, starting from the bearing model and in combination with experimental results aimed at analyzing the lubrication regimes of different working conditions. The separation between the surfaces by the lubricant layer is what determines the regime. The quality and type of lubrication regime are determined by parameters in the mathematical model including typically speed, load, motion, materials, environment, etc., which have an impact on friction. Besides those elements, important parameters such as coefficient of friction (COF) and working temperature are to be measured due to experimental investigations to detect an equilibrium working state. The self-lubrication mechanism in porous metal bearings improves their service life and lubrication processes; however, the COF still varies within a wide interval. This variability can be understood, considering that during bearing operation it operates within a broad range of lubrication regimes. Those findings are explained in the paper by using a combination of calculated parameters according to the bearing model and in combination with our own results of experimental investigations. With the obtained results for particular working conditions, the authors are trying to explain, in the form of a diagram with the limit line as an important outcome of the work, that the lubrication regime for porous metal bearings could arise from boundary lubrication (BL) close to hydrodynamic lubrication (HDL).
Structural Modification of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate to (2R,3R)-5,7-dimethoxy-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)chroman-3-yl l-valinate in Four Steps
Authors: Yu Xiaoman , Ren Zimo , Coghi Paolo , Ng Jerome P. L.
Published: May 2024

Tea is a daily drink for most people, and one of its major ingredients, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), has been widely recognized as a potent antioxidant with diverse biological activities. However, its low stability and bioavailability hinder its further clinical applications. In this study, we designed and synthesized a novel EGCG-valine derivative 4 by replacing the gallic acid with a valine moiety in four steps. The structural elucidation of derivative 4 was performed using NMR, IR, mass, and UV spectroscopies. Additionally, the physicochemical properties of 4 were predicted by SwissADME, showing improved drug-like parameters and intestinal absorption compared to the parent compound EGCG.
Alumina Ceramics for Armor Protection via 3D Printing Using Different Monomers
Authors: Zhang Dongjiang , Liang Zhengang , Chen Xin , Pang Chunxu , Guo Xuncheng , Xu Xiqing
Published: May 2024

Alumina ceramic is an ideal candidate for armor protection, but it is limited by the difficult molding or machining process. Three-dimensional printing imparts a superior geometric flexibility and shows good potential in the preparation of ceramics for armor protection. In this work, alumina ceramics were manufactured via 3D printing, and the effects of different monomers on the photosensitive slurry and sintered ceramics were investigated. The photosensitive slurries using dipropylene glycol diacrylate (DPGDA) as a monomer displayed the optimal curing performance, with a low viscosity, small volume shrinkage and low critical exposure energy, and each of the above properties was conducive to a good curing performance in 3D printing, making it a suitable formula for 3D-printed ceramic materials. In the 3D-printed ceramics with DPGDA as a monomer, a dense and uniform microstructure was exhibited after sintering. In comparison, the sample with trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) showed an anisotropic microstructure with interlayer gaps and a porosity of about 9.8%. Attributed to the dense uniform microstructure, the sample with DPGDA exhibited superior properties, including a relative density of 97.5 ± 0.5%, a Vickers hardness of 19.4 ± 0.8 GPa, a fracture toughness of 2.6 ± 0.27 MPa·m1/2, a bending strength of 690 ± 54 MPa, and a dynamic strength of 3.7 ± 0.6 GPa at a strain rate of 1200 s−1.
Effect of Strain Rate on Mechanical Deformation Behavior in CuZr Metallic Glass
Authors: Fan Beibei , Li Maozhi
Published: May 2024

Tensile tests were performed on Cu64Zr36 metallic glass at strain rates of 107/s, 108/s, and 109/s via classical molecular dynamics simulations to explore the underlying mechanism by which strain rate affects deformation behavior. It was found that strain rate has a great impact on the deformation behavior of metallic glass. The higher the strain rate is, the larger the yield strength. We also found that the strain rate changes the atomic structure evolution during deformation, but that the difference in the atomic structure evolution induced by different strain rates is not significant. However, the mechanical response under deformation conditions is found to be significantly different with the change in strain rate. The average von Mises strain of a system in the case of 107/s is much larger than that of 109/s. In contrast, more atoms tend to participate in deformation with increasing strain rate, indicating that the strain localization degree is more significant in cases of lower strain rates. Therefore, increasing the strain rate reduces the degree of deformation heterogeneity, leading to an increase in yield strength. Further analysis shows that the structural features of atomic clusters faded out during deformation as the strain rate increased, benefiting more homogeneous deformation behavior. Our findings provide more useful insights into the deformation mechanisms of metallic glass.
Ball Milling Innovations Advance Mg-Based Hydrogen Storage Materials Towards Practical Applications
Authors: Xu Yaohui , Li Yuting , Hou Quanhui , Hao Yechen , Ding Zhao
Published: May 2024

Mg-based materials have been widely studied as potential hydrogen storage media due to their high theoretical hydrogen capacity, low cost, and abundant reserves. However, the sluggish hydrogen absorption/desorption kinetics and high thermodynamic stability of Mg-based hydrides have hindered their practical application. Ball milling has emerged as a versatile and effective technique to synthesize and modify nanostructured Mg-based hydrides with enhanced hydrogen storage properties. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the state-of-the-art progress in the ball milling of Mg-based hydrogen storage materials. The synthesis mechanisms, microstructural evolution, and hydrogen storage properties of nanocrystalline and amorphous Mg-based hydrides prepared via ball milling are systematically reviewed. The effects of various catalytic additives, including transition metals, metal oxides, carbon materials, and metal halides, on the kinetics and thermodynamics of Mg-based hydrides are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the strategies for synthesizing nanocomposite Mg-based hydrides via ball milling with other hydrides, MOFs, and carbon scaffolds are highlighted, with an emphasis on the importance of nanoconfinement and interfacial effects. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives of ball-milled Mg-based hydrides for practical on-board hydrogen storage applications are outlined. This review aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for the development of advanced Mg-based hydrogen storage materials with superior performance.
A Smart, Data-Driven Approach to Qualify Additively Manufactured Steel Samples for Print-Parameter-Based Imperfections
Authors: Alaparthi Suresh , Subadra Sharath P. , Sheikhi Shahram
Published: May 2024

With additive manufacturing (AM) processes such as Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), components with complex shapes or with functional properties can be produced, with advantages in the areas of resource conservation, lightweight construction, and load-optimized production. However, proving component quality is a challenge because it is not possible to produce 100% defect-free components. In addition to this, statistically determined fluctuations in the wire quality, gas flow, and their interaction with process parameters result in a quality of the components that is not 100% reproducible. Complex testing procedures are therefore required to demonstrate the quality of the components, which are not cost-effective and lead to less efficiency. As part of the project “3DPrintFEM”, a sound emission analysis is used to evaluate the quality of AM components. Within the scope of the project, an approach was being developed to determine the quality of an AM part dependent not necessarily on its geometry. Samples were produced from WAAM, which were later cut and milled to precision. To determine the frequencies, the samples were put through a resonant frequency test (RFM). The unwanted modes were then removed from the spectrum produced by the experiments by comparing it with FEM simulations. Later, defects were introduced in experimental samples in compliance with the ISO 5817 guidelines. In order to create a database of frequencies related to the degree of the sample defect, they were subjected to RFM. The database was further augmented through frequencies from simulations performed on samples with similar geometries, and, hence, a training set was generated for an algorithm. A machine-learning algorithm based on regression modelling was trained based on the database to sort samples according to the degree of flaws in them. The algorithm’s detectability was evaluated using samples that had a known level of flaws which forms the test dataset. Based on the outcome, the algorithm will be integrated into an equipment developed in-house to monitor the quality of samples produced, thereby having an in-house quality assessment routine. The equipment shall be less expensive than conventional acoustic equipment, thus helping the industry cut costs when validating the quality of their components.
Volume Stability and Frost Resistance of High–Ductility Magnesium Phosphate Cementitious Concrete
Authors: Chai Lijuan , Yue Zhonghua , Chen Zhichun , Fan Gaoyu , Wang Liuye
Published: May 2024

To address the issue of pavement cracking due to brittle concrete in road and bridge engineering, this study explores the use of high–ductility magnesium phosphate cementitious concrete (HD–MPCC) for rapid repairs. The deformation and frost properties of HD–MPCC are analyzed to assess its suitability for this application. Deformation properties were tested for HD–MPCC specimens cured in both air and water. Subsequent tests focused on the frost performance and mechanical properties after freeze–thaw cycles. A mercury penetration technique was utilized to examine the pore structure. The findings reveal that the expansion deformation of HD–MPCC increases with curing age in both air and water conditions, and the quantitative relationship between the expansion deformation and curing age of HD–MPCC was analyzed. Additionally, the freeze–thaw cycles led to a decrease in mass loss, the relative dynamic elastic modulus, the ultimate tensile strength, the ultimate tensile strain, the flexural strength, and the peak deflection. The volume fraction of harmless and less harmful pores gradually decreased as the freeze–thaw cycle increased, while the volume fraction of more harmful pores increased, resulting in a decrease in the strength, ultimate tensile strain, and peak deflection.
Correction: Alkabaa et al. An Investigation on Spiking Neural Networks Based on the Izhikevich Neuronal Model: Spiking Processing and Hardware Approach. Mathematics 2022, 10, 612
Authors: Alkabaa Abdulaziz S. , Taylan Osman , Yilmaz Mustafa Tahsin , Nazemi Ehsan , Kalmoun El Mostafa
Published: May 2024

In the original paper [...]
New Secondary Metabolites from Marine-Derived Fungus Talaromyces minnesotensis BTBU20220184
Authors: Wang Weiliang , Wang Jingjing , Song Fuhang , Jia Renming , Wang Long , Xu Xiuli , Yang Na
Published: May 2024

Six new compounds, talamitones A and B (1 and 2), demethyltalamitone B (3), talamiisocoumaringlycosides A and B (4 and 5), and talaminaphtholglycoside (6), together with six known compounds (7–12), were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Talaromyces minnesotensis BTBU20220184. The new structures were characterized by using HRESIMS and NMR. This is the first report of isocoumaringlycoside derivatives from a fungus of the Talaromyces genus. Compounds 5, 6, and 9 showed synergistic antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.
Anion Exchange Membrane with Pendulous Piperidinium on Twisted All-Carbon Backbone for Fuel Cell
Authors: Zhang Huaqing , Song Wanjie , Sun Lixuan , Yang Cui , Zhang Xin , Wu Mingyue , Wu Liang , Ge Xiaolin , Xu Tongwen
Published: May 2024

As a central component for anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs), the anion exchange membrane is now facing the challenge of further improving its conductivity and alkali stability. Herein, a twisted all-carbon backbone is designed by introducing stereo-contorted units with piperidinium groups dangled at the twisted sites. The rigid and twisted backbone improves the conduction of hydroxide and brings down the squeezing effect of the backbone on piperidine rings. Accordingly, an anion exchange membrane prepared through this method exhibits adapted OH− conductivity, low swelling ratio and excellent alkali stability, even in high alkali concentrations. Further, a fuel cell assembled with a such-prepared membrane can reach a power density of 904.2 mW/cm2 and be capable of continuous operation for over 50 h. These results demonstrate that the designed membrane has good potential for applications in AEMFCs.
Research on the Chloride Ion Corrosion Resistance of Cu-Sb-Added Low-Carbon Steel
Authors: Chen Yuanyu , Meng Zhengbing , Li Yuxiang , Shen Jialong
Published: May 2024

The corrosion resistance of low-carbon steel and two new low-alloy, corrosion-resistant steels containing Cu-Sb and Cu was studied in a simulated seawater environment. The effects of Cu and Sb on corrosion resistance were analyzed by an electrochemical test and accelerated corrosion test. The results show that Cu and Sb reduce the corrosion current density by increasing the corrosion potential and increasing the polarization resistance. Sb can promote the formation of Cu-containing compounds with a strong corrosion inhibition performance, and it can enhance the overall corrosion resistance of steel. In addition, Sb can also promote the conversion of Fe2+ ions into a corrosion-resistant compound, α-FeOOH, and it also further improves the corrosion resistance of steel.
Optimization of Welded Joints under Fatigue Loadings
Authors: Livieri Paolo , Tovo Roberto
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the notch effect in weldments has been investigated, and the optimal configuration of different types of welded joints has been analysed using the implicit gradient approach. By considering this implicit gradient method, it is possible to calculate the effective stress related to fatigue damage, with the effective stress being a continuous scalar function of the real stress tensor components, even in the presence of sharp edges. Hence, the search for the optimal configuration that maximises fatigue life can be tackled as the condition of minimum effective stress obtained by changing the weld shape and geometrical parameters. Both load-carrying cruciform joints and spot welds made of steel have been considered. The structural details have been studied by modelling actual shapes without any geometric simplification. Moreover, the same numerical procedure has been considered independently of the size, shape or load condition without imposing restrictive rules on the FE mesh.
Efficient Implementation of the Binary Common Neighbor Analysis for Platinum-Based Intermetallics
Authors: Tang Wenming , Zhang Xianxian , Tang Jianfeng , Zhang Xingming , Wang Liang , Hu Wangyu , Deng Lei
Published: May 2024

The common neighbor analysis (CNA) for binary systems is a powerful method used to identify chemical ordering in intermetallics by unique indices. The capability of binary CNA, however, is largely restricted by the availability of indices for various ordered phases. In this study, CNA indices of 11 ordered phases derived from a face-centered cubic structure were introduced on a case-by-case basis. These phases, common in intermetallics containing platinum-group metals, include C11b, MoPt2, C6, B11, AgZr, A2B2[111], A2B2[113], Pt3Tc, A3B[011], A3B[111], and A3B[113]. The chemical order in static chemical perturbation, dynamic phase competition, and experimentally reconstructed nanophase alloys were identified using binary CNA. The results indicated that the proposed version of binary CNA exhibited significantly higher accuracy and robustness compared to the short-range order, polyhedral template matching, and the original binary CNA method. Benchmarked against available methods, the formation, decomposition, and competition of specifically ordered phases in bulks and nanoalloys were well reflected by present CNA, highlighting its potential as a robust and widely adopted tool for deciphering chemical ordering at the atomic level.
Correction: Fadil et al. Isotope Ratio Outlier Analysis (IROA) for HPLC–TOFMS-Based Metabolomics of Human Urine. Metabolites 2022, 12, 741
Authors: Fadil Fadi , Samol Claudia , Berger Raffaela S. , Kellermeier Fabian , Gronwald Wolfram , Oefner Peter J. , Dettmer Katja
Published: May 2024

It was pointed out to us that we had not followed exactly the IROA TruQuant IQQ Workflow Kit protocol in the experimental part of our work [...]
Genetic Evidence for Causal Relationships between Plasma Eicosanoid Levels and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Bi Xukun , Wang Yiran , Lin Yangjun , Wang Meihui , Li Xiaoting
Published: May 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are the most common causes of mortality and disability worldwide. Eicosanoids are a group of bioactive metabolites that are mainly oxidized by arachidonic acid. Eicosanoids play a diverse role in cardiovascular diseases, with some exerting beneficial effects while others have detrimental consequences. However, a causal relationship between eicosanoid levels and cardiovascular disease remains unclear. Six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with strong associations with plasma eicosanoid levels were selected. Summary-level data for cardiovascular disease were obtained from publicly available genome-wide association studies. A two-sample MR analysis identified that plasma eicosanoid levels were inversely correlated with unstable angina pectoris (OR 1.06; 95% CI 1–1.12; p = 0.04), myocardial infarction (OR 1.05; 95% CI 1.02–1.09; p = 0.005), ischemia stroke (OR 1.05; 95% CI 1–1.11; p = 0.047), transient ischemic attack (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1–1.07; p = 0.042), heart failure (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.01–1.05; p = 0.011), and pulmonary embolism (OR 1.08; 95% CI 1.02–1.14; p = 1.69 × 10−6). In conclusion, our data strongly suggest a genetic causal link between high plasma eicosanoid levels and an increased cardiovascular disease risk. This study provides genetic evidence for treating cardiovascular diseases.
Can Daily Dietary Choices Have a Cardioprotective Effect? Food Compounds in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiometabolic Diseases
Authors: Szczepańska Elżbieta , Janota Barbara , Wlazło Marika , Gacal Magdalena
Published: May 2024

Cardiovascular diseases accompanying metabolic syndrome comprise one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The medical community undertakes attempts to improve treatment options and minimize cardiovascular diseases’ numerous consequences and exacerbations. In parallel with pharmacotherapies provided by physicians, nutritionists are developing strategies for diet therapy and prevention based on lifestyle changes, with high success rates. Consumption of specified food compounds included in various products with proven protective properties can be helpful in this regard. Due to the wide possibilities of diet in metabolic health promotion, it seems necessary to systematize information about the metabolically protective and cardioprotective properties of fiber, probiotic bacteria, plant sterols, folic acid, vitamins B12, C, and E, PUFAs, lycopene, polyphenols, arginine, CoQ10, and allicin. The aim of this review was to present the food compounds with potential use in cardiometabolic prevention and diet therapy based on the latest available literature.
A Novel High-Speed Split-Gate Trench Carrier-Stored Trench-Gate Bipolar Transistor with Enhanced Short-Circuit Roughness
Authors: Qian Zhehong , Cui Wenrong , Feng Tianyang , Xu Hang , Yang Yafen , Sun Qingqing , Zhang David Wei
Published: May 2024

A novel high-speed and process-compatible carrier-stored trench-gate bipolar transistor (CSTBT) combined with split-gate technology is proposed in this paper. The device features a split polysilicon electrode in the trench, where the left portion is equipotential with the cathode. This design mitigates the impact of the anode on the trench gate, resulting in a reduction in the gate-collector capacitance (CGC) to improve the dynamic characteristics. On the left side of the device cell, the P-layer, the carrier-stored (CS) layer and the P-body are formed from the bottom up by ion implantation and annealing. The P-layer beneath the trench bottom can decrease the electric field at the bottom of the trench, thereby improving breakdown voltage (BV) performance. Simultaneously, the highly doped CS layer strengthens the hole-accumulation effect at the cathode. Moreover, the PNP doping layers on the left form a self-biased pMOS. In a short-circuit state, the self-biased pMOS turns on at a certain collector voltage, causing the potential of the CS-layer to be clamped by the hole channel. Consequently, the short-circuit current no longer increases with the collector voltage. The simulation results reveal significant improvements in comparison with the conventional CSTBT under the same on-state voltage (1.48 V for 100 A/cm2). Specifically, the turn-off time (toff) and turn-off loss (Eoff) are reduced by 38.4% and 41.8%, respectively. The short-circuit current is decreased by 50%, while the short-circuit time of the device is increased by 2.46 times.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Microbial Diagnosis
Authors: Alsulimani Ahmad , Akhter Naseem , Jameela Fatima , Ashgar Rnda I. , Jawed Arshad , Hassani Mohammed Ahmed , Dar Sajad Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Traditional microbial diagnostic methods face many obstacles such as sample handling, culture difficulties, misidentification, and delays in determining susceptibility. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has markedly transformed microbial diagnostics with rapid and precise analyses. Nonetheless, ethical considerations accompany AI adoption, necessitating measures to uphold patient privacy, mitigate biases, and ensure data integrity. This review examines conventional diagnostic hurdles, stressing the significance of standardized procedures in sample processing. It underscores AI’s significant impact, particularly through machine learning (ML), in microbial diagnostics. Recent progressions in AI, particularly ML methodologies, are explored, showcasing their influence on microbial categorization, comprehension of microorganism interactions, and augmentation of microscopy capabilities. This review furnishes a comprehensive evaluation of AI’s utility in microbial diagnostics, addressing both advantages and challenges. A few case studies including SARS-CoV-2, malaria, and mycobacteria serve to illustrate AI’s potential for swift and precise diagnosis. Utilization of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in digital pathology, automated bacterial classification, and colony counting further underscores AI’s versatility. Additionally, AI improves antimicrobial susceptibility assessment and contributes to disease surveillance, outbreak forecasting, and real-time monitoring. Despite a few limitations, integration of AI in diagnostic microbiology presents robust solutions, user-friendly algorithms, and comprehensive training, promising paradigm-shifting advancements in healthcare.
The Role of Bacteria in Central Nervous System Tumors: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Zhang Rui , Li Xueying , Zhang Si
Published: May 2024

Tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) are severe and refractory diseases with poor prognosis, especially for patients with malignant glioblastoma and brain metastases. Currently, numerous studies have explored the potential role of bacteria and intestinal flora in tumor development and treatment. Bacteria can penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB), targeting the hypoxic microenvironment at the core of tumors, thereby eliminating tumors and activating both the innate and adaptive immune responses, rendering them promising therapeutic agents for CNS tumors. In addition, engineered bacteria and derivatives, such as bacterial membrane proteins and bacterial spores, can also be used as good candidate carriers for targeted drug delivery. Moreover, the intestinal flora can regulate CNS tumor metabolism and influence the immune microenvironment through the “gut–brain axis”. Therefore, bacterial anti-tumor therapy, engineered bacterial targeted drug delivery, and intervention of the intestinal flora provide therapeutic modalities for the treatment of CNS tumors. In this paper, we performed a comprehensive review of the mechanisms and therapeutic practices of bacterial therapy for CNS tumors and discussed potential future research directions in this field.
How Was the Late Neogene Red Clay Formed in the Ordos Plateau (Northwest China)?
Authors: Lin Xu , Hu Chengwei , Wu Ruitong , Qin Lishuang , Xiang Runzhi , An Zhengyang , Lu Hang
Published: May 2024

Eolian sediments are extensively distributed across the Earth’s surface, and their formation is intricately linked to climate change, tectonic activity, and topographic features. Consequently, the investigation of eolian sediments bears great geological significance. The northwest region of China is renowned for hosting the most extensive and thickest Late Miocene–Pliocene red clay deposits globally. Nonetheless, scholars have yet to reach a consensus regarding the precise formation processes of these red clays. The identification of the source region of the red clays is crucial for comprehending their formation mechanism. The correlation of zircon U-Pb age spectra is a frequently utilized method for determining the provenance of eolian sediments. In this study, we compared the previously published zircon U-Pb ages (n = 12,918) of the Late Miocene–Pliocene red clays in the Ordos Plateau with those from the potential provenance regions (n = 24,280). The analysis, supported by the tectonic and climatic background of the region, revealed that the Late Miocene–Pliocene red clay in the Ordos Plateau originates predominantly from the Yellow and Wei rivers, with a minor contribution from the weathering of bedrock in the western North China Craton. The transport of these detrital materials by the East Asian winter monsoon is impeded by the presence of the Qinling and Taihang Shan, resulting in their deposition on the flat surface of the Ordos Plateau. This development of red clay is consistent with the proximal accumulation model, illustrating how the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere interacted to shape the red clay deposits during the Late Miocene and Pliocene periods in the Ordos Plateau.
Application of Machine Learning to Research on Trace Elemental Characteristics of Metal Sulfides in Se-Te Bearing Deposits
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxuan , Wang Da , Ma Huchao , Dong Saina , Wang Zhiyu , Wang Zhenlei
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on exploring the indication and importance of selenium (Se) and tellurium (Te) in distinguishing different genetic types of ore deposits. Traditional views suggest that dispersed elements are unable to form independent deposits, but are hosted within deposits of other elements as associated elements. Based on this, the study collected trace elemental data of pyrite, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite in various types of Se-Te bearing deposits. The optimal end-elements for distinguishing different genetic type deposits were recognized by principal component analysis (PCA) and the silhouette coefficient method, and discriminant diagrams were drawn. However, support vector machine (SVM) calculation of the decision boundary shows low accuracy, revealing the limitations in binary discriminant visualization for ore deposit type discrimination. Consequently, two machine learning algorithms, random forest (RF) and SVM, were used to construct ore genetic type classification models on the basis of trace elemental data for the three types of metal sulfides. The results indicate that the RF classification model for pyrite exhibits the best performance, achieving an accuracy of 94.5% and avoiding overfitting errors. In detail, according to the feature importance analysis, Se exhibits higher Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) values in volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) and epithermal deposits, especially the latter, where Se is the most crucial distinguishing element. By comparison, Te shows a significant contribution to distinguishing Carlin-type deposits. Conversely, in porphyry- and skarn-type deposits, the contributions of Se and Te were relatively lower. In conclusion, the application of machine learning methods provides a novel approach for ore genetic type classification and discrimination research, enabling more accurate identification of ore genetic types and contributing to the exploration and development of mineral resources.