bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Grinding Metamorphic for 8Cr4Mo4V Steel
Authors: Liu Xue , Xia Tao , Li Hongfei , Song Tianpeng , Qu Nan , Liu Yong , Zhu Jingchuan
Published: February 2025

The formation of surface austenite leads to microstructural changes, causing grinding hardening. However, the effect of grinding mechanical stresses on surface austenitization remains unclear. Additionally, the mechanical properties of the metamorphic layer are crucial for studying grinding hardening. Therefore, in this study, the evolution of the microstructure and corresponding mechanical properties of the grinding surface in 8Cr4Mo4V steel was analyzed. The microstructure of the metamorphic layer was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Physical simulation was employed to analyze the effect of mechanical compressive stress on the austenite transformation start temperature (Ac1). Dimensionless analysis, based on nanoindentation results, was conducted to study the mechanical properties of the metamorphic layer. The metamorphic layer in 8Cr4Mo4V steel consists of martensite, retained austenite, and undissolved carbides. The unresolved carbides are distributed within the cryptocrystalline martensite. Increasing the grinding depth and workpiece feed speed results in higher mechanical stress and temperature, which leads to a reduction in Ac1 and a higher content of austenite. The yield strength of the metamorphic layer is 2427 MPa, which is 427 MPa higher than that of the matrix, indicating obvious grinding hardening.
Event-Driven Prescribed-Time Tracking Control for Multiple UAVs with Flight State Constraints
Authors: Han Xueyan , Yu Peng , Lv Maolong , Shi Yuyuan , Wang Ning
Published: February 2025

Consensus tracking control for multiple UAVs demonstrates critical theoretical value and application potential, improving system robustness and addressing challenges in complex operational environments. This paper addresses the challenge of event-triggered prescribed-time synchronization tracking control for 6-DOF fixed-wing UAVs with state constraints. We propose a novel prescribed-time command filtered backstepping approach to effectively tackle the issues of complexity explosion and singularities. By utilizing a state-transition function, we manage asymmetric time-varying state constraints, including limitations on speed, roll, yaw, and pitch angles in UAVs. The theoretical analysis demonstrates that all signals in the 6-DOF UAV system remain bounded, with tracking errors converging to the origin within the prescribed time. Finally, simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Analysis and Optimization of Flapping-Wing Mechanism Based on Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Ling Yunyu , Liu Benyou , Zhang Hongxin , Bo Lan , Liu Mingjie
Published: February 2025

Inspired by the wing-flapping action of birds, this study considers the inherent dynamics among vehicle mechanisms to optimize the vehicle’s geometric parameters. The goal is for the vehicle to imitate the wing-flapping action of birds while minimizing energy consumption and the peak torque during flapping. To accomplish this, a dynamics model and an energy consumption model are established for the vehicle drive mechanism, followed by a multi-objective optimization under the boundary conditions of each parameter. Because of the complexity of the model, a mathematical tool that combines the genetic algorithm with the augmented Lagrange multiplier method is adopted in the optimization process. Simulation results show that the optimized energy consumption and peak moments are reduced. The proposed method provides a theoretical basis for designing a reliable flap-winged vehicle with reasonable parameter choices.
On the Complete Lattice Structure of Ordered Functional Weighted Averaging Operators
Authors: Aragón Roberto G. , Medina Jesús , Molina-Ruiz Samuel , Yager Ronald R.
Published: February 2025

Ordered functional weighted averaging (OFWA) operators are a generalization of the well-known ordered weighted averaging (OWA) operators in which functions, instead of single values, are considered as weights. This fact offers an extra level of flexibility; for example, in multi-criteria decision-making, it can be used to aggregate available information and provide recommendations. This paper furthers the analysis of these general operators, studying how they can be combined to obtain conservative and aggressive perspectives from experts and studying the algebraic structure of the whole set of these operators.
Radius of α-Spirallikeness of Order cos(α)/2 for Entire Functions
Authors: Alabkary Narjes , Mondal Saiful R.
Published: February 2025

We determine the radius of α-spirallikeness of order cos(α)/2 for entire functions represented as infinite products of their positive zeros. The discussion includes several examples featuring special functions such as Gamma functions, Bessel functions, Struve functions, Wright functions, Ramanujan-type entire functions, and q-Bessel functions. We also consider combinations of classical Bessel functions, including both first-order and second-order derivatives. Additionally, several other special functions that can be incorporated into the established classes are described. We utilize Mathematica 12 software to compute the numerical values of the radius for some functions.
Single-Source and Multi-Source Cross-Subject Transfer Based on Domain Adaptation Algorithms for EEG Classification
Authors: Maswanganyi Rito Clifford , Tu Chunling , Owolawi Pius Adewale , Du Shengzhi
Published: February 2025

Transfer learning (TL) has been employed in electroencephalogram (EEG)-based brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) to enhance performance for cross-session and cross-subject EEG classification. However, domain shifts coupled with a low signal-to-noise ratio between EEG recordings have been demonstrated to contribute to significant variations in EEG neural dynamics from session to session and subject to subject. Critical factors—such as mental fatigue, concentration, and physiological and non-physiological artifacts—can constitute the immense domain shifts seen between EEG recordings, leading to massive inter-subject variations. Consequently, such variations increase the distribution shifts across the source and target domains, in turn weakening the discriminative knowledge of classes and resulting in poor cross-subject transfer performance. In this paper, domain adaptation algorithms, including two machine learning (ML) algorithms, are contrasted based on the single-source-to-single-target (STS) and multi-source-to-single-target (MTS) transfer paradigms, mainly to mitigate the challenge of immense inter-subject variations in EEG neural dynamics that lead to poor classification performance. Afterward, we evaluate the effect of the STS and MTS transfer paradigms on cross-subject transfer performance utilizing three EEG datasets. In this case, to evaluate the effect of STS and MTS transfer schemes on classification performance, domain adaptation algorithms (DAA)—including ML algorithms implemented through a traditional BCI—are compared, namely, manifold embedded knowledge transfer (MEKT), multi-source manifold feature transfer learning (MMFT), k-nearest neighbor (K-NN), and Naïve Bayes (NB). The experimental results illustrated that compared to traditional ML methods, DAA can significantly reduce immense variations in EEG characteristics, in turn resulting in superior cross-subject transfer performance. Notably, superior classification accuracies (CAs) were noted when MMFT was applied, with mean CAs of 89% and 83% recorded, while MEKT recorded mean CAs of 87% and 76% under the STS and MTS transfer paradigms, respectively.
A Review of Link Prediction Algorithms in Dynamic Networks
Authors: Sun Mengdi , Tang Minghu
Published: February 2025

Dynamic network link prediction refers to the prediction of possible future links or the identification of missing links on the basis of historical information of dynamic networks. Link prediction aids people in exploring and analyzing complex change patterns in the real world and it could be applied in personalized recommendation systems, intelligence analysis, anomaly detection, and other fields. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of dynamic network link prediction. Firstly, dynamic networks are categorized into dynamic univariate networks and dynamic multivariate networks according to the changes in their sets. Furthermore, dynamic network link prediction algorithms are classified into regular sampling and irregular sampling by the method of network sampling. After summarizing and comparing the common datasets and evaluation indicators for dynamic network link prediction, we briefly review classic related algorithms in recent years, and classify them according to the network changes, sampling methods, underlying principles of algorithms, and other classification methods. Meanwhile, the basic ideas, advantages, and disadvantages of these algorithms are discussed in detail. The application fields and challenges in this area are also summarized. In the final summary of the paper, the future research directions such as link prediction in dynamic heterogeneous weighted networks and the security issues brought about by link prediction are discussed.
Multiclass Evaluation of Vision Transformers for Industrial Welding Defect Detection
Authors: Contreras Ortiz Antonio , Santiago Ricardo Rioda , Hernandez Daniel E. , Lopez-Montiel Miguel
Published: February 2025

Automating industrial processes, particularly quality inspection, is a key objective in manufacturing. While welding tasks are frequently automated, inspection processes remain largely manual. Advances in computer vision and AI, especially ViTs, now enable more effective defect detection and classification, offering opportunities to automate these workflows. This study evaluates ViTs for identifying defects in aluminum welding using the Aluminum 5083 TIG dataset. The analysis spans binary classification (detecting defects) and multiclass categorization (Good Weld, Burn Through, Contamination, Lack of Fusion, Misalignment, and Lack of Penetration). ViTs achieved 98% to 99% accuracy across both tasks, significantly outperforming prior models such as dense and CNNs, which struggled to surpass 80% accuracy in binary and 70% in multiclass tasks. These results, achieved with datasets of 2400 to 8000 images, highlight ViTs’ efficiency even with limited data. The findings underline the potential of ViTs to enhance manufacturing inspection processes by enabling faster, more reliable, and cost-effective automated solutions, reducing reliance on manual inspection methods.
A Meta-Analysis Examining the Impact of Consuming Nitrogen-Free Analogs of Essential Amino Acids on the Progression of Chronic Renal Disease
Authors: Imam Mohamed S. , Alrasheedi Lama Saud Turki , Alyami Saleh Ali Hassan , Aljamaan Mahdi Mohammed Ahmed , Alnaim Khaled Sami Khaled , Alenzi Hussam Mohsen Ayesh , Alnufeai Nouf Nawaf , Almalki Daad Adnan Saad , Alanazi Abdullah S. , Alotaibi Saud Saad Frais , Alshaibani Naif Fahad Mashaan , Abdelrahim Mohamed E. A. , Mohamed Basma M. E.
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the impact of nitrogen-free substitutes for essential amino acids on the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature review conducted up to November 2024 identified 15 studies that involved 1596 participants with CKD at baseline; among them, 797 were on very-low-protein diets (LPDs) enriched with nitrogen-free analogs (NFA), while 799 followed a standard LPD. Results: A very-LPD utilizing NFA showed significantly improved estimated glomerular filtration rate (MD, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.35–1.64, p = 0.002), reduced serum creatinine (MD, −0.44; 95% CI, −0.75 to −0.13, p = 0.006), decreased blood urea nitrogen (MD, −35.34; 95% CI, −64.27 to −6.42, p = 0.02), and lower parathyroid hormone levels (MD, −1.25; 95% CI, −2.33 to 0.18, p = 0.02) when compared to a standard LPD in patients with CKD. Nevertheless, the very-LPD with NFA resulted in no significant differences in serum albumin (MD, 0.08; 95% CI, −0.03 to 0.19, p = 0.14), serum cholesterol (MD, −17.25; 95% CI, −42.79 to 8.29, p = 0.19), serum phosphorus (MD, −0.41; 95% CI, −0.97 to 0.15, p = 0.15), and serum calcium (MD, 0.16; 95% CI, −0.06 to 0.39, p = 0.16) compared to a typical LPD in subjects with CKD. Conclusions: A very-LPD supplemented with NFA showed a notably higher estimated glomerular filtration rate, decreased serum creatinine levels, lower blood urea nitrogen, and reduced parathyroid hormone levels; however, there were no significant differences observed in serum albumin, serum cholesterol, serum phosphorous, and serum calcium when compared to a standard LPD in individuals with CKD. Additional research is necessary to confirm these results.
Preclinical Evaluation of the Anticoagulant Effect of an Aqueous Extract of Snow Mountain Garlic
Authors: Clark-Montoya Isabel , Milán-Segovia Rosa del Carmen , Lemus-Rojero Obed , Jaramillo-Morales Osmar Antonio , Júarez-Flores Bertha , Terán-Figueroa Yolanda
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: In the genus Allium, it has been shown that some organosulfate compounds of common garlic and onion have an antiplatelet effect. Still, little is known about the anticoagulant activity of the species, Allium ampeloprasum L., specifically Snow mountain garlic; due to its growth site at 6000 m above sea level at temperatures of −10 °C, it could contain different organosulfate compounds. Methods: This study evaluated the anticoagulant effect of a lyophilized aqueous extract of S. mountain garlic in vivo, toxicity in male Wistar rats for 90 days, and the organosulfate compounds present. Results: There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the area under the curve for bleeding time at doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg/d of lyophilized aqueous extract of Snow mountain garlic and 100 mg/kg/d of acetylsalicylic acid. The ED50 was 366 ± 2.43 mg/kg. For chronic toxicity in vivo, no histopathological alterations were found at doses below 500 mg/kg. On the other hand, organosulfate compounds were found in the lyophilized aqueous extract of S. mountain garlic that had not been documented to have an anticoagulant effect. Conclusions: We conclude that S. mountain garlic contains anticoagulant compounds which may be candidates for the treatment of thrombosis.
Clinic, Ambulatory and Home Blood Pressure Monitoring for Metabolic Syndrome: Time to Change the Definition?
Authors: Antza Christina , Sitmalidou Maria , Belančić Andrej , Katsiki Niki , Kotsis Vasilios
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is considered a global epidemic, and its diagnosis is crucial, allowing early intervention and management. The main aim of this study was to examine any possible blood pressure (BP) differences based on office and out-of-office measurements in patients with and without MetS, and to investigate if any of these measurements correlated better with MetS. The secondary aim was to investigate any possible cardiovascular risk differences. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of individuals attending the outpatient hypertension clinic. Office and out-of-office BP measurements were recorded in all of the patients, as well as different cardiovascular risk scores and echocardiography. MetS was defined according to ACC/AHA criteria. Results: A total of 282 (39.9% men) individuals (56.8 ± 15.8 years) were analyzed; 60.8% of them had MetS. The patients with MetS had a significantly higher systolic BP (SBP) in all of the BP measurements, higher ASCVD risk (22% vs. 12%), Framingham risk scores (11.8% vs. 6.9%), a significantly higher prevalence of LVH (49.2% vs. 22.7%) and early vascular aging (54.8% vs. 27.4%) compared with the patients without MetS (p < 0.05 for all). In a univariate analysis, MetS was significantly correlated with the average 24h SBP, daytime and nighttime ambulatory SBP, office SBP, and home SBP in the morning (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed for any of the DBP measurements. Finally, 50.5% of the MetS patients had sustained hypertension, 15.2% masked hypertension, and 11.5% white-coat hypertension based on ABPM, and these values were 45.1%, 19.3%, and 13.6%, respectively, based on HBPM. Furthermore, most of the MetS patients had non-dipping hypertension (56.4%). Conclusions: The present findings highlight the importance of out-of-office BP measurements in the diagnosis of MetS, since both a high office and out-of-office SBP were significant features of the syndrome (whereas this was not the case with DBP). This is further supported by the increased prevalence of different hypertension phenotypes observed in the MetS patients. Higher ASCVD risk scores and LVH and EVA prevalence were also related to MetS, thus strongly supporting the necessity for early detection and treatment.
Influence of Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of FeCoNiCrMn High-Entropy Alloy Manufactured via Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Liang Jiahong , Zhu Guoxing , Sun Jingli , Qu Shoujiang , Jiang Jianzhong , Cao Guojian , Wang Hao , Shen Jun , Feng Aihan , Chen Daolun
Published: February 2025

Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), as one of the additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing techniques, has been widely used for the net-shape fabrication of high-entropy alloys (HEAs). However, microstructural defects are often present in the FeCoNiCrMn high-entropy alloy fabricated via L-PBF, which necessitate subsequent heat treatment for optimization. In this study, FeCoNiCrMn HEA samples were fabricated using L-PBF and subsequently annealed at different temperatures. The influence of heat treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties was investigated. The results revealed that the cellular substructure remained stable at 650 °C, while at 1100 °C dislocation recovery and compositional homogenization occurred, leading to the dissolution of the cellular substructure. After annealing at 1200 °C, the elongation of the alloy increased by 82%, while the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength decreased by 37% and 10%, respectively, compared to the as-built state. The cellular substructure not only contributed to strength through dislocation strengthening but also acted as nucleation sites for subsequent twinning, resulting in improved work hardening capability. Annealing-induced grain growth and substructure elimination improved the capacity of coordinated plastic deformation, while weakening the contribution of grain rotation and twinning mechanisms.
Microstructural Evolution and Tensile Properties of Nb-V-Ti-N Microalloyed Steel with Varying Nitrogen Contents
Authors: Liu Jiangcheng , Guo Kai , Ma Haote , He Jiangli , Wang Junchao , Zhang Chuanyou , Wang Tiansheng , Wang Qingfeng
Published: February 2025

With the rapid development of long-distance transmission pipelines for oil and natural gas, pipeline steel is continuously evolving towards higher pressure, larger diameter, and thicker wall thickness. Many extensive studies and research have been conducted on X70 pipeline steel produced through traditional processing routes. This study focuses on Nb-V-Ti-N microalloyed steel with different nitrogen contents, systematically investigating the variations in microstructure and tensile properties after quenching and tempering processes. The results indicate that after quenching treatment, when the nitrogen content of the tested steel is 0.0020 wt%, its primary microstructure consists of granular bainitic ferrite (GBF), acicular ferrite (AF), and residual M/A (martensite/austenite) components. As the nitrogen content increases, the contents of acicular ferrite and M/A constituents gradually rise, while granular bainitic ferrite correspondingly decreases. After tempering treatment, the microstructure of the tested steel transforms into granular bainitic ferrite, acicular ferrite, and carbonitrides. Notably, with the elevation of nitrogen content, the number of high-angle grain boundaries in the microstructure significantly increases. Meanwhile, the mean equivalent diameter (MED) defined by the misorientation angle (MTA) ranging from 2 to 15° and the dislocation density (ρ) exhibit an overall decreasing trend. Both of these factors contribute significantly to yield strength, resulting in a gradual increase in yield strength (YS) as the nitrogen content rises. Additionally, the study finds that as the nitrogen content increases, the size of precipitated particles continuously enlarges, and their proportion in the microstructure gradually increases. This discovery provides important theoretical basis and practical guidance for further optimizing the microstructure and mechanical properties of X70 pipeline steel.
Microstructure and Texture Evolution of High Permeability Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel
Authors: Fu Yujie , Fan Lifeng
Published: February 2025

Industrialization trial production of high permeability (Hi-B) steel was carried out by “one cold rolled + decarburization and nitridation technologies”. The finished product reached the level of 23Q100 with an average grain size of 5.47 cm, magnetic flux density B8 of 1.902T, and the iron loss P1.7/50 of 0.975 W/Kg. The evolution law of the microstructure and texture under different processes was analyzed with the help of OM, EBSD, and XRD. The results showed that the microstructure of the hot rolled plate was equiaxed crystals in the surface layer, a mixture of recrystallization grains and banded fiber in the quarter of the thickness layer, and banded fiber in the center layer. The texture gradient of the hot rolled plate from the surface layer to the center layer was {112}<111> + {110}<114> → {441}<014> → {001}~{111}<110>. The texture of the normalized plate was in major {110}<113> in the surface layer, diffuse α-fiber texture and {441}<014> in the quarter of the thickness layer, and sharp α texture {001}~{111}<110> in the center layer. The texture of the cold-rolled sheet was concentrated in {001}~{332}<110>. The average grain size of the decarburizing and nitriding sheet was 26.4 μm, and the texture of the first recrystallization is sharp α*-fiber and weak {111}<112>. The finished product has a sharp single Goss texture. For Hi-B steel, the Goss secondary nucleus originated from the surface layer to 1/4 layer of the hot rolled plate and reached the highest content of 11.5% in the quarter of the thickness. The content of the Goss texture decreased with the subsequent normalization and cold rolling, then the Goss grains nucleated again during the decarburization annealing and high temperature annealing processes.
Effects of L-β-Galactoglucan Supplementation on Growth Performance, Palatability, and Intestinal Microbiota in Adult Beagle Dogs
Authors: Chang Chenghe , Gu Zifeng , Du Lingling , Guo Jiantao , Yang Ying , Wu Zhenlong
Published: February 2025

Background: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of L-β-galactoglucan on growth performance, palatability, and health condition of dogs. Methods: A total of 32 healthy beagle dogs (2.0 ± 0.5 yr; 13.2 ± 2.1 kg) were randomly assigned into four treatment groups, with 8 dogs in each group. The dogs were fed basal diets supplemented with 0 (control), 0.25, 0.5, or 1% L-β-galactoglucan. Results: The results showed that the feed intake ratio of the dogs in the Low_Gal (0.25%) group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) as compared with the control (Con) group. The low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels of the Mid_Gal (0.5%) group showed a trend toward lower levels as compared with the control (Con) group (p = 0.069). Compared with the control (Con) group, the alpha diversity of the bacterial flora of the Shannon index of the Mid_Gal (0.5%) group was significantly higher (p < 0.05). The Simpson index was significantly reduced (p < 0.05), and a PCoA indicated a significant change in the gut microbiota structure among the four groups (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Blautia and Peptoclostridium in the Low_Gal (0.25%) group was significantly higher as compared with the control (Con) group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These results indicated that L-β-galactoglucan exhibited a positive effect on improving the palatability and gut microbiota of dogs.
Rapid and Ultrasensitive Sensor for Point-of-Use Detection of Perfluorooctanoic Acid Based on Molecular Imprinted Polymer and AC Electrothermal Effect
Authors: Amin Niloufar , Chen Jiangang , Nguyen Ngoc Susie , He Qiang , Schwartz John , Wu Jie Jayne
Published: February 2025

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is one of the most persistent and bioaccumulative water contaminants. Sensitive, rapid, and in-field analysis is needed to ensure safe water supplies. Here, we present a single step (one shot) and rapid sensor capable of measuring PFOA at the sub-quadrillion (ppq) level, 4.5 × 10−4 ppq, within 10 s. This innovative sensor employs a synergistic combination of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-modified gold interdigitated microelectrode chip and AC electrothermal effects (ACETs), which enhance detection sensitivity by facilitating the accelerated movement of PFOA molecules towards specific recognition sites on the sensing surface. The application of a predetermined AC signal induces microfluidic enrichment and results in concentration-dependent changes in interfacial capacitance during the binding process. This enables real-time, rapid quantification with exceptional sensitivity. We achieved a linear dynamic range spanning from 0.4 to 40 fg/L (4 × 10−7–4 × 10−5 ppt) and demonstrated good selectivity (~1:100) against other PFAS compounds, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOS), in PBS buffer. The sensor’s straightforward operation, cost-effectiveness, elimination of the need for external redox probes, compact design, and functionality in relatively resistant environmental matrices position it as an outstanding candidate for deployment in practical applications.
Design of a Compact Unified SIW Cavity Filtenna Module for Antenna Array Application
Authors: Altynnikov Andrey , Platonov Roman , Sosunov Alexey , Legkova Tatyana , Komlev Andrey , Kozyrev Andrey B.
Published: February 2025

The design of a multilayer SIW cavity-fed filtenna is presented. The proposed filtenna can be used as a unified module in an antenna array structure. It consists of three-pole bandpass filter with slot antenna positioned centrally within the top module surface. The modules aperture dimensions of λ0/2×λ0/2 in conjunction with an SMA feeding port located on the bottom filtenna surface allow implementation of an antenna array of different configurations. This approach allows greatly simplifying the feeding and matching scheme of the array. This module is designed to operate at a 2.655 GHz central frequency with a 70 MHz bandwidth. The procedure of the filtenna design is described in detail. The proposed filtenna was fabricated and tested. The simulation and measurement results show a good agreement. The measurements demonstrate that the maximum measured gain of the prototype is 3.64 dBi with a small variation in the passband.
Ultrasonic Signal Processing Method for Dynamic Burning Rate Measurement Based on Improved Wavelet Thresholding and Extreme Value Feature Fitting
Authors: Wei Wenlong , Yan Xiaolong , Cui Juan , Wang Ruizhi , Zheng Yongqiu , Xue Chenyang
Published: February 2025

Ultrasonic measurement techniques are increasingly used to measure the burning rates of solid rocket fuel, but challenges arise due to noise and signal attenuation caused by the motor’s multi-layered structure. This paper proposes an adaptive thresholding method combined with a wavelet threshold function for effective ultrasonic signal denoising. Additionally, an extreme value feature fitting algorithm is introduced for accurate echo signal localization, even in low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) conditions. Numerical simulations show a 10 dB improvement in SNR at −20 dB, with a correlation coefficient of 0.83 between the denoised and true signals. Echo localization tests across 12 SNR levels demonstrate a consistent error below 1 μs. Compared to other algorithms, the proposed method achieves higher precision, with a maximum displacement error of 0.74 mm. Hardware-in-the-loop experiments show an increase in SNR from −15 dB to 5.78 dB, with maximum displacement and rate errors of 0.9239 mm and 0.781 mm/s. In fuel-burning experiments, the burning rate curve closely matches the theoretical curve, with an initial fuel thickness error of only 0.12 mm, confirming the method’s effectiveness in complex environments.
Rapid Detection of Salmonella Typhimurium During Cell Attachment on Three Food-Contact Surfaces Using Long-Read Sequencing
Authors: Bermudez-Aguirre Daniela , Tilman Shannon , Uknalis Joseph , Niemira Brendan A. , Counihan Katrina L.
Published: February 2025

Salmonella spp. are pathogenic microorganisms linked to foodborne outbreaks associated with eggs and egg products. Salmonella can resist sanitation of egg processing equipment and form biofilms on food-contact surfaces. A major challenge for controlling Salmonella is the ability to detect the cells during the early stages of attachment to indicate that interventions are needed to sanitize the surface. This research investigated the use of long-read sequencing to identify Salmonella during the early stages (0–5 h) of cell attachment to three common food-contact surfaces—stainless steel, silicone, and nylon—and compared it with traditional microbiological methods. Results of the conventional plate counts showed that the detection of Salmonella began after three hours of incubation, with less than 1 log CFU/cm2 of growth. Silicone had the highest number of Salmonella attached (0.87 log CFU/cm2), followed by stainless steel (0.70 log CFU/cm2). Long-read whole genome sequencing identified attached Salmonella on stainless steel, silicone, and nylon after only one hour of incubation. The results of this study suggest that long-read sequencing could be a very useful method for detecting Salmonella at low concentrations in the processing environment during the early stages of cell attachment to food-contact surfaces, allowing for correct sanitation intervention.
Rheological Properties of Aluminium Oxide Nanoparticle-Modified Cemented Paste Tailings Materials
Authors: Kaviani Raouf , Fall Mamadou
Published: February 2025

There is currently no research examining the rheological properties of cementitious paste backfill (CPB) materials containing aluminium oxide nanoparticles (nAlO). Knowing the yield stress and viscosity of CPB containing nAlO is crucial, especially when applying nano-CPB technology in underground mines. The purpose of this work is to thoroughly examine how nAlO affects the rheological characteristics of CPB and how those characteristics change over time. Yield stress and viscosity measurements are performed on CPB samples with different compositions (e.g., nAlO content, binder type, and superplasticizer content) at intervals of 0 min, 20 min, 1 h, 2 h, and 4 h. The study also includes measurements of the pH and zeta potential of the materials, microstructural studies (TG/DTG and XRD), and electrical conductivity (EC). The findings show that adding nAlO to CPB significantly changes its rheological properties, which in turn affects flowability. The yield stress and viscosity of CPB samples are greatly increased by the incorporation of nAlO, with the degree of influence varying based on variables including water content, curing duration, and type of binder. Because of the nAlO-induced microstructural changes in the CPB material, the interaction of nAlO and a larger fraction of nAlO, along with an increase in curing time, raises rheological characteristics and decreases paste flowability. The results of EC, DTG, and XRD, which show that binder hydration improves with nAlO dosage, corroborate this. Moreover, as nAlO content increases, the zeta potential decreases in magnitude, resulting in stronger repulsion forces and reduced flowability. However, EC, XRD, and DTG analyses suggest that the addition of 0.125% superplasticizer counteracts the flowability reduction caused by nAlO, as the superplasticizer slows down the cement hydration rate at very early curing stages. Moreover, the increase in the slag percentage from 0% to 50% and 75% of the binder content slightly decreases viscosity but greatly increases yield stress. The study’s fresh perspectives contribute to the advancement of nano-CPB technology and have important ramifications for the practical use of this technology in underground mine backfill operations.
A Comprehensive Review of the Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Other Applications of Euphorbiae Humifusae Herba
Authors: Xiao Jian , Gu Hong , Zhang Jiaqing , Xue Yuqian , Chen Yunyi , Zhu Weizhong , Zhang Hong , Fan Boyi , Wang Wenli
Published: February 2025

Euphorbiae Humifusae Herba (EHH) is a globally distributed plant commonly utilized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and health food within China. The dried aerial parts of EHH are well-recognized as health foods for the management of diarrhea and other intestinal diseases. Known for its therapeutic effects, such as heat-clearing, detoxification, blood cooling, hemostasis, dampness, elimination, and jaundice relief, EHH has yielded 197 bioactive compounds identified to date, including terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, alkaloids, sterols, lactones, coumarins, and other constituents, with flavonoids and terpenoids, highlighting its wide-ranging pharmacological properties and medicinal significance. Despite its popularity in research, limited systematic and comprehensive information has been provided on the EHH. Therefore, we provide an in-depth overview of EHH, covering its botanical characteristics, traditional uses, phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, and additional applications. Furthermore, it addresses the current challenges and limitations in modern research on EHH, offering critical perspectives to guide future studies in this field.
Faberidilactone A, a Sesquiterpene Dimer, Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression Through Apoptosis, Ferroptosis, and Anti-Metastatic Mechanisms
Authors: Cao Ruyu , Liu Yuhui , Bao Jiahe , Rong Mingming , Xu Jing , Liao Haibing , Guo Yuanqiang
Published: February 2025

Cancer remains a significant global public health challenge, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranking among the top five malignancies in terms of mortality. Faberidilactone A, a sesquiterpenoid dimer isolated from Inula japonica, exhibits potent cytotoxicity against various human tumor cell lines and demonstrates remarkable antitumor potential. In vitro studies using HepG2 cells revealed that faberidilactone A induces apoptosis and ferroptosis, causes cell cycle arrest, enhances the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and disrupts mitochondrial function. Mechanistic investigations via Western blot analysis indicated that faberidilactone A impedes HepG2 cell proliferation by modulating the signal transducer and activator of the transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway and inhibits metastasis by affecting the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) pathway. In vivo experiments using a zebrafish model demonstrated that faberidilactone A effectively suppresses the dissemination and metastasis of HepG2 cells and exhibits anti-angiogenic properties. When the concentration of faberidilactone A reached 10 µM, the inhibition rates of tumor proliferation, migration, and intersegmental vessels (ISVs) length were 76.9%, 72.6%, and 46.2%, respectively. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of faberidilactone A as a promising agent for HCC treatment.
Preparation, Structure, Function, and Application of Dietary Polysaccharides from Polygonatum sibiricum in the Food Industry: A Review
Authors: Li Peilin , Yao Huimin , Yue Hao , Huang Jiali , Wang Qi , Ding Chuanbo , Ma Lina , Liu Xinglong , Yang Min
Published: February 2025

Polygonatum sibiricum is one of the most widely used plants in the Liliaceae family, renowned for its dual medicinal and edible properties. Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides, as the main pharmacological active ingredient of Polygonatum sibiricum, have various excellent physiological activities, such as antioxidant, immune enhancement, and hypoglycemic activities. Through extraction, purification, and structural analysis, the influence and mechanism of the molecular weight and glycosidic bonds of Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides on the pharmacological effects, as well as their structure–activity relationship, can be explored in more detail. With the increasing demand for Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide products, Polygonatum sibiricum has been widely used in the fields of medicine, food, and biochemistry, and various green and harmless products containing Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides have been developed for different populations. This study summarizes the extraction, structure, and function of Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides, and it further explores their applications in the food industry, including in beverages, health foods, additives, and food packaging. Overall, Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides have been proven to be a promising natural product and have been introduced into the food system. It is worth mentioning that further efforts and time are needed in the future to expand the deep processing of and feasibility research on Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides while exploring their bioactive molecular mechanisms in depth, laying the foundation for their product development and clinical applications.
Structural Characterization of Polysaccharides from Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) Juice and Their Preventive Effect on Oxidative Stress Activity
Authors: Zhang Bin , Wei Xiaoyu , Du Peiwen , Luo Huangqun , Hu Lanfang , Guan Liping , Chen Guangying
Published: February 2025

Polysaccharides are very promising molecules in the field of pharmacotherapy. Knowing this, the aim of this study was to extract, characterize, and evaluate the action of the polysaccharides in noni juice, using biological models of Type 2 diabetes mellitus processes. In this study, one polysaccharide named NJSPd−1 was separated from fermented noni fruit juice. The characterization assay showed that NJSPd−1 had a molecular weight (Mw) of 18,545 Da. NJSPd−1 consisted of galacturonic acid, galactose, rhamnose, and arabinose, with a molar ratio of 28.79:20.34:19.80:18.84 according to HPGPC analysis, and the glycosidic bond mainly included →4)-α-D-GalAp-(1→, 4)-β-D-Glcp-(1→, →2)-α-L-Rhap-(1→, and →3)-α-L-Araf-(1→. The prevention of oxidative stress activities by NJSPd−1 was evaluated using high-glucose-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells. In vitro results showed that NJSPd−1 influenced the downregulation of the proteins and genes Nrf2, Keap1, HO-1, and NQO1 in HepG2 cells. These results suggest that NJSPd−1 exerted a protective effect against oxidative stress in HepG2 cells by activating the Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 signaling pathway.
Coordination Polymers of Vanadium and Selected Metal Ions with N,O-Donor Schiff Base Ligands—Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Application
Authors: Osypiuk Dariusz , Bartyzel Agata , Cristóvão Beata
Published: February 2025

This review provides an overview of the synthesis, characterization and application of coordination polymers based on N,O-donor Schiff base ligands. The coordination polymers (CPs) represent a novel class of inorganic–organic hybrid materials with tunable compositions and fascinating structures. They are composed of metal ions and organic ligands. Therefore, the nature of the metal ion and type of organic ligand is the most significant factor in constructing targeted coordination polymers with the desired properties. Due to the versatile coordination modes, N,O-donor Schiff base ligands are also used to construct various CPs.
Design, Synthesis, and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Novel Indolin-2-One Based Molecules on Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 Cells as Protein Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Kandeel Manal M. , AbdElhameid Mohamed Kamal , Adel Mohamed , Al-Shorbagy Muhammad Y. , Negmeldin Ahmed T.
Published: February 2025

A series of indolinone-based derivatives were designed and synthesized using the hybrid pharmacophoric design approach as cytotoxic kinase inhibitors. The cytotoxic effects of the designed molecules were tested against MCF-7 and HepG-2 cell lines. Compounds 9 and 20 were the most cytotoxic, with IC50 values against HepG-2 and MCF-7 cells ranging from 2.53 to 7.54 µM. Additionally, compounds 9 and 20 were also found to be slightly more cytotoxic than indirubin with 2.2–2.7-fold higher cytotoxicity with HepG-2 cells. CDK-2 and CDK-4 kinase enzyme inhibition assay showed that compound 9 had a higher inhibitory effect (4.8-fold) than indirubin against CDK-2 and comparable inhibition against CDK-4. Moreover, compound 20 displayed nanomolar inhibitory action against both EGFR kinase and VFGFR-2 enzyme, which were around 8.8- and 5.4-fold higher than the IC50 values of indirubin. Compounds 9 and 20 induced cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase on HepG2 cells. The levels of the key apoptotic proteins assessed revealed elevated levels of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, which in turn initiated the caspase3/7 cascade that led to the activation of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. The cell cycle inhibitory proteins p53 and p21 were significantly upregulated upon treatment with compounds 9 and 20. The docking results revealed that compound 9 exhibits stronger binding affinity to CDK-2 than indirubin, and compound 20 showed a similar binding mode to sorafenib with VEGFR-2.
A Study of the Catalytic System H3PW12O40/Quaternary Phosphonium Salts for the Epoxidation of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters—The Effect of the Molar Ratio of Hydrogen Peroxide to the Double Bond
Authors: Musik Marlena , Janus Ewa , Pełech Robert
Published: February 2025

In the present work, the epoxidation of fatty acid methyl esters (biodiesel or FAMEs) with an iodine number of 96.4 g/100 g and containing approximately 11% palmitic acid, 4% stearic acid, 51% oleic acid, 25% linoleic acid, and 5% linolenic acid was studied with an aqueous H2O2 solution and different quaternary phosphonium salts (QPSs) combined with the phosphotungstic heteropolyacid (HPA) H3PW12O40 in a biphasic system. The effect of the molar ratio of H2O2:C=C on the epoxidation of FAMEs was investigated. The effect of the molar ratio of H2O2:C=C on the epoxy number (EN) and iodine number (IN) was measured. Multiple regression analysis methods were used to determine the regression model describing the influence of the various independent variables. In the results obtained, it was found that the highest yields were obtained for [P6][Phosf]. The optimum conditions for the epoxidation process with the systems used were a time range of 30 ± 4 min and a H2O2/double bond molar ratio in the range of 1.8 ± 0.2. The formation of epoxidised fatty acid methyl esters (E-FAMEs) was confirmed by FT-IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR analyses. In the FT-IR spectrum of the E-FAMEs, epoxy ring vibration signals were identified at 826 cm−1. In the 1H NMR spectrum, signals appeared in the range of 3.25–3.00 ppm, corresponding to epoxy ring formation in biodiesel, and in the range of 60–55 ppm in the 13C NMR spectrum.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Boron-Containing Heterocyclic Compounds with Antimicrobial and Anticancer Activities
Authors: Prates João Lucas Bruno , de Matos Silva Samanta , Medina-Alarcón Kaila Petrolina , dos Santos Kelvin Sousa , Belizario Jenyffie Araujo , Lopes Juliana Romano , Marin-Dett Freddy Humberto , Campos Debora Leite , Mendes Giannini Maria José Soares , Fusco-Almeida Ana Marisa , Barbugli Paula Aboud , Pavan Fernando Rogério , Dos Santos Jean Leandro
Published: February 2025

Organoboron compounds, especially those containing boronic acid and benzoxaborole in their structure, have been gaining prominence in medicinal chemistry, following the FDA approval of tavaborole for the treatment of onychomycosis and bortezomib for multiple myeloma. The antimicrobial and anticancer effects of organoboron compounds motivate the investigation of the effects of the novel derivatives described here. A total of fourteen new boronic derivatives were synthesized and characterized using analytical methods. The antimicrobial activities were evaluated against M. tuberculosis (Mtb) H37Rv strains and fungal dermatophytes (C. albicans, ATCC 90028; T. rubrum, ATCC 28189; and T. mentagrophytes, ATCC 11481), while the anticancer effect was evaluated against oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cell lines. Several promising boron-containing prototypes were identified, providing a foundation for further molecular optimization in the development of new antimicrobial and anticancer compounds.
Facile Synthesis of Sandwich-Type Porous Structured Ni(OH)2/NCNWs/rGO Composite for High Performance Supercapacitor
Authors: Duan Xiaosen , Dou Mingyu , Liu Lingyang , Zhang Long , Bai Xianrui , Yang Ruixin , Wang Hengyi , Dou Jianmin
Published: February 2025

Nickel hydroxide has ultra-high energy storage capacity in supercapacitors, but poor electrical conductivity limits their further application. The use of graphene to improve its conductivity is an effective measure, but how to suppress the stacking of graphene and improve the overall performance of composite materials has become a new challenge. In this work, a well-designed substrate of N-doped carbon nanowires with reduced graphene oxide (NCNWs/rGO) was fabricated by growing polypyrrole (PPy) nanowires between GO nanosheets layers and then calcining them at high temperatures. This NCNWs/rGO substrate can effectively avoid the stacking of rGO nanosheets, and provides sufficient sites for the subsequent in situ growth of Ni(OH)2, forming a uniform and stable Ni(OH)2/NCNWs/rGO composite material. Benefiting from the abundant pores, high specific surface area (107.2 m2 g−1), and conductive network throughout the NCNWs/rGO substrate, the deposited Ni(OH)2 can not only realize an ultra-high loading ratio, but also exposes more active surfaces (221.3 m2 g−1). After a comprehensive electrochemical test, it was found that the Ni(OH)2/NCNWs/rGO positive materials have a high specific capacitance of 2016.6 F g−1 at a scan rate of 1 mV s−1, and exhibit significantly better stability. The assembled Ni(OH)2/NCNWs/rGO//AC asymmetric supercapacitor could achieve a high energy density of 85.2 Wh kg−1 at power densities of 381 W kg−1. In addition, the asymmetric supercapacitor has excellent stability and could retain 70.1% of initial capacitance after 10,000 cycles. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using NCNWs/rGO substrate to construct high-performance supercapacitor electrode materials, and it is also expected to be promoted in other active composite materials.
Progress in the Development of Flexible Devices Utilizing Protein Nanomaterials
Authors: Zhang Chunhong , Zhang Chenxi , Liu Yongchun
Published: February 2025

Flexible devices are soft, lightweight, and portable, making them suitable for large-area applications. These features significantly expand the scope of electronic devices and demonstrate their unique value in various fields, including smart wearable devices, medical and health monitoring, human–computer interaction, and brain–computer interfaces. Protein materials, due to their unique molecular structure, biological properties, sustainability, self-assembly ability, and good biocompatibility, can be applied in electronic devices to significantly enhance the sensitivity, stability, mechanical strength, energy density, and conductivity of the devices. Protein-based flexible devices have become an important research direction in the fields of bioelectronics and smart wearables, providing new material support for the development of more environmentally friendly and reliable flexible electronics. Currently, many proteins, such as silk fibroin, collagen, ferritin, and so on, have been used in biosensors, memristors, energy storage devices, and power generation devices. Therefore, in this paper, we provide an overview of related research in the field of protein-based flexible devices, including the concept and characteristics of protein-based flexible devices, fabrication materials, fabrication processes, characterization, and evaluation, and we point out the future development direction of protein-based flexible devices.