bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mode Selection for Device to Device Communication in Dynamic Network: A Statistical and Deep Learning Method
Authors: Liu Daqian , Kang Guiqi , Shi Yuntao , Wang Yingying , Lei Zhenwu
Published: January 2025

A major challenge in device to device (D2D) communications is determining the appropriate communication modes for each potential D2D pair. In dynamic networks, the continuous movement of devices increases the complexity of channel state modeling, which makes it difficult to predict the quality of network service and select appropriate switching thresholds, ultimately affecting the accuracy of D2D mode selection. This paper proposes a novel D2D mode selection method, which integrates deep learning with statistical learning and includes three modules: signal-to-interference-plus-noise-ratio (SINR) prediction, error analysis, and threshold selection. Specifically, the SINR prediction module employs the gated recurrent unit (GRU) method to predict future SINR values; the error analysis module applies a non-parametric method to construct a probability density function of the prediction error. The combination of these two modules provides a significant improvement in prediction value accuracy. Additionally, in the threshold selection module, two constraints are innovatively introduced to mitigate the problem of frequent switching: average reliability (AR) and probably correct reliability (PCR). Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves higher system throughput, longer D2D mode residence time, and a lower mode switching frequency compared to other methods.
A New Method for the Exact Controllability of Linear Parabolic Equations
Authors: Gayte Delgado Inmaculada , Marín-Gayte Irene
Published: January 2025

This work solves the exact controllability to zero in the final time for a linear parabolic problem when the control only acts in a part of the spatial domain. Specifically, it is proved, by compactness arguments, the existence of a partially distributed control. The lack of regularity in the problem prevents the use of standard techniques in this field, that is, Carleman’s inequalities. Controlling a parabolic equation when the diffusion is discontinuous and only acts in a part of the domain is interesting, for example, as in the spreading of a brain tumor. The proof is based on a new maximum principle in the final time; in a linear parabolic equation, with a right-hand side that changes sign in a certain way, and an initial datum of a constant sign, the solution at the final time has the same sign as the initial datum. As a consequence of the exact control result, we prove a unique continuation theorem when the data are not regular.
Three-Dimensional Stratigraphic Structure and Property Collaborative Modeling in Urban Engineering Construction
Authors: Zhang Baoyi , Zhu Yanli , Zhang Tongyun , Zhou Xian , Wang Binhai , Kablan Or Aimon Brou Koffi , Huang Jixian
Published: January 2025

In urban engineering construction, ensuring the stability and safety of subsurface geological structures is as crucial as surface planning and aesthetics. This study proposes a novel multivariate radial basis function (MRBF) interpolant for the three-dimensional (3D) modeling of engineering geological properties, constrained by the stratigraphic structural model. A key innovation is the incorporation of a well-sampled geological stratigraphical potential field (SPF) as an ancillary variable, which enhances the interpolation of geological properties in areas with sparse and uneven sampling points. The proposed MRBF method outperforms traditional interpolation techniques by showing reduced dependency on the distribution of sampling points. Furthermore, the study calculates the bearing capacity of individual pile foundations based on precise stratigraphic thicknesses, yielding more accurate results compared to conventional methods that average these values across the entire site. Additionally, the integration of 3D geological models with urban planning facilitates the development of comprehensive urban digital twins, optimizing resource management, improving decision-making processes, and contributing to the realization of smart cities through more efficient data-driven urban management strategies.
Machine Learning Tool for Analyzing Finite Buffer Queueing Systems
Authors: Alfa Attahiru Sule , Abu Ghazaleh Haitham
Published: January 2025

Queueing delays are one very important performance measure for most engineering network systems. Providing low-delay systems is a major goal of service providers, as it is a leading concern for users/customers. These network systems and their performance measures are typically analyzed using queueing-based models. Even though there are several available strong and precise mathematical models for analyzing queueing systems, their applications are limited to simple and small-scale systems due to their lack of scalability in real-life systems. Researchers have spent a good portion of their efforts toward perfecting the analysis of such systems. Precise and accurate results are available for single-node systems with standard operations. However, for analyzing multi-node systems with complex operations, one has to resort to approximations or simulations. Some of these approximations usually give an oversimplified view of such systems; these approximations remain quite limited. In this paper, we present a machine learning tool that can potentially be used to analyze most finite buffer queues to obtain reasonable approximations for the mean number of items in such systems. The machine learning tool we develop is based on supervised learning using the Michaelis–Menten non-linear model used in biochemistry and the results are simple to obtain. It is fast and very scalable; these characteristics represent the main features of this approach compared to existing systems. The coefficient of determination R2 for all the examples presented are all higher than 90%, with some as high as 99.6%.
Major Issues in High-Frequency Financial Data Analysis: A Survey of Solutions
Authors: Zhang Lu , Hua Lei
Published: January 2025

We review recent articles that focus on the main issues identified in high-frequency financial data analysis. The issues to be addressed include nonstationarity, low signal-to-noise ratios, asynchronous data, imbalanced data, and intraday seasonality. We focus on the research articles and survey papers published since 2020 on recent developments and new ideas that address the issues, while commonly used approaches in the literature are also reviewed. The methods for addressing the issues are mainly classified into two groups: data preprocessing methods and quantitative methods. The latter include various statistical, econometric, and machine learning methods. We also provide easy-to-read charts and tables to summarize all the surveyed methods and articles.
Adapting the Formula for Planar Spiral Inductors’ Inductance Computation to the New Oval Geometric Shape, Ideal for Designing Wireless Power Transfer Systems for Smart Devices
Authors: Pacurar Claudia , Topa Vasile , Constantinescu Claudia , Munteanu Calin , Gliga Marian , Andreica Sergiu , Giurgiuman Adina
Published: January 2025

The most used spiral inductors, in the available scientific literature and in our research activities, so far, have been those with square, hexagonal, octagonal, and circular geometric shapes. Geometry plays an important role in the efficiency of these inductors when used in wireless power transfer. In this article, a new geometric shape is designed by combining the square and the circle to create an oval shape of a planar spiral inductor. Inductors with this new shape are designed, numerically modelled, and practically constructed for experimental testing. The formula for inductance computation for planar spiral inductors is adapted for this new oval shape. New geometric coefficients, required for inductance computation formula, have been determined. The new formula for inductance computation is validated both analytically, by comparing the results with those from numerical modelling, and experimentally, by comparing with measurements, for a wide range of oval spiral inductors. Five sets of different oval spiral inductors are optimally designed, numerically modelled, practically constructed, and experimentally tested. By designing this new shape for planar spiral inductors, the inductance is increased 2.16 times compared to square, 1.84 times compared to hexagonal, 2.12 times compared to octagonal, and 2.52 times compared to circular shapes. The new oval spiral inductor design will be very useful for constructing wireless power transfer systems for pacemakers, smartphones, smartwatches, and/or any other type of smart device.
An Isolated Hydatid Cyst of the Spleen with High Serum Levels of CA 19-9—A Meaningful Association or Just a Challenge for Diagnosis? A Case Report
Authors: Dumitrascu Traian
Published: January 2025

An isolated hydatid cyst of the spleen represents an exceptional pathology, and its association with high CA 19-9 serum levels was not previously reported. This case presents a patient with an isolated hydatid cyst of the spleen, with preoperative high CA 19-9 serum levels in the absence of other pathologies and normalization of CA 19-9 serum levels after surgery (i.e., splenectomy). The source and clinical value of high serum levels of CA 19-9 in hydatid cysts of the spleen remains unclear. High serum levels of CA 19-9 in the context of a splenic cyst may complicate diagnosis and challenge the therapeutic strategy.
Efficacy of Inhaled Treprostinil in a Patient with Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Pulmonary Hypertension and Interstitial Lung Diseases Refractory to Conventional Intravenous Epoprostenol
Authors: Hida Yuki , Imamura Teruhiko , Ushijima Ryuichi , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: January 2025

Background: Systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary hypertension (SSc-PH) is widely recognized as the most severe subtype of connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary hypertension (CTD-PH), particularly in patients with complicating factors such as interstitial lung disease (ILD) and biventricular failure. This condition is associated with the poorest clinical outcomes among PH subtypes, presenting significant challenges in both management and prognosis. Despite the use of conventional therapies, including intravenous administration of epoprostenol, a promising prostacyclin analogue, treatment outcomes for SSc-PH remain suboptimal. While epoprostenol has demonstrated efficacy in reducing pulmonary arterial pressures, its clinical application is often constrained by the risk of ventilation–perfusion (V-Q) mismatch, particularly at higher doses. Case presentation: We report the case of a 73-year-old woman with SSc-PH complicated by ILD, who experienced progressive hemodynamic deterioration despite receiving optimized therapy with intravenous epoprostenol. Efforts to escalate the dose of epoprostenol were limited by the development of severe V-Q mismatch, precluding further dose increases. In light of these challenges, inhaled treprostinil was introduced as an adjunctive therapy. There were significant improvements in her pulmonary hypertension and hemodynamic parameters, ultimately allowing the discontinuation of intravenous dobutamine and stabilization of her hemodynamics, as well as her respiratory function, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Conclusions: This case highlights the potential clinical utility of combining inhaled treprostinil with intravenous epoprostenol for the treatment of SSc-PH in patients with concurrent ILD. By addressing the limitations associated with high-dose intravenous prostacyclin therapy, this combination approach may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for improving outcomes in this difficult-to-treat patient population. Further investigation is warranted to establish the efficacy and feasibility of this combination therapy in larger cohorts of patients with SSc-PH and associated ILD.
Correction: Olteanu et al. Paradoxical Psoriasis Induced by Ustekinumab: A Comprehensive Review and Case Report. Medicina 2024, 60, 106
Authors: Olteanu Andrei Ovidiu , Klimko Artsiom , Tieranu Ioana , Orzan Olguta Anca , Toma Cristian Valentin , Ionescu Elena Mirela , Preda Carmen Monica , Tieranu Cristian George
Published: January 2025

In the original publication [...]
An Evaluation of White Matter Intensities in Patients with Pediatric Migraine
Authors: Gülcen Burak , Aydın Hilal , Bülbül Erdoğan , Yanik Bahar
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: This study aims to assess white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in pediatric migraine patients and to elucidate the pathophysiology of the disease. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients diagnosed with migraine and 28 healthy individuals undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for various reasons in our hospital between September 2019 and April 2023 were included in the study. We evaluated the presence, number, locations, and volumetric measurement of WMHs and the relationship between hyperintensity and attack profiles in migraine patients. Results: WMHs were observed at MRI in 18 (60%) of the 30 migraine patients and in 8 (28.6%) of the 28 controls. One hyperintense lesion was detected in nine members of the patient group, two in six patients, five in one patient, eight in one patient and nine in one. One hyperintense lesion was detected in eight healthy control group members. WMHs were significantly more common in the migraine patients than in the control group (p = 0.016). There was no significant relationship between hyperintensity in migraine patients and attack duration or frequency. Analysis also revealed no significant difference in terms of hyperintensity volumes (mm3) between the study group (19.73 ± 24.26) and the control group (5.62 ± 1.83). Conclusions: This study set out to show that migraine exerts neurological effects that are not solely limited to pain by emphasizing the pronounced differences observed on the brain MRIs of migraine patients. These findings may help us achieve a better understanding of the effects of migraine on cerebral structures and functions and identify therapeutic strategies in the future.
Neuromuscular Response to High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Spinal Manipulation—An Overview
Authors: Alanazi Murdi S. , Degenhardt Brian , Kelley-Franklin Gwyn , Cox James M. , Lipke Laura , Reed William R.
Published: January 2025

The clinical use of spinal manipulation to treat musculoskeletal conditions has nearly tripled in the United States since 1980, and it is currently recommended by most global clinical guidelines as a conservative treatment for musculoskeletal pain, despite a lack of knowledge concerning its mechanisms of action. This overview highlights evidence of direct neuromuscular responses to high-velocity, low-amplitude spinal manipulation (HVLA-SM) as delivered by chiropractic, osteopathic, and physical therapy clinicians, with an intent to foster greater interprofessional dialogue and collaborative research to better address current gaps in mechanistic knowledge of the neuromuscular response to HVLA-SM. Three databases (PubMed, CINAHL Ultimate (EBSCO), EMBASE (Elsevier)) were searched from 2000 to December 2024 with specific search terms related to thrust HVLA-SM and the neuromuscular response. To focus strictly on neuromuscular responses related to HVLA-SM, this literature overview excluded articles using non-HVLA-SM manual therapy techniques (i.e., massage, non-thrust joint mobilization, and/or combined HVLA-SM with other forms of treatment such as exercise or non-thrust joint mobilization) and studies in which patient-centered outcomes (i.e., pain scores) were the primary outcomes of the HVLA-SM interventions. Pediatric studies, animal studies, and studies in languages other than English were also excluded. One-hundred and thirty six articles were identified and included in this overview. Neuromuscular findings related to HVLA-SM in the areas of electromyography (EMG), muscle thickness, muscle strength, reflexes, electroencephalogram (EEG), and evoked potential were often mixed; however, evidence is beginning to accumulate either in favor of or opposed to particular neuromuscular responses to HVLA-SM as larger and more scientifically rigorous studies are being performed. Recurrent limitations of many HVLA-SM-related studies are small sample sizes, leading to a lack of generalizability, and the non-standardization of HVLA-SM delivery, which has prevented researchers from arriving at definitive conclusions regarding neuromuscular responses to HVLA-SM. Discussions of future neuromuscular research needs related to HVLA-SM are included for clinicians and researchers inside and outside of the field of manual therapy, to advance this field.
Lymphocyte Inhibition Mechanisms and Immune Checkpoints in COVID-19: Insights into Prognostic Markers and Disease Severity
Authors: Schniederova Martina , Bobcakova Anna , Grendar Marian , Markocsy Adam , Ceres Andrej , Cibulka Michal , Dobrota Dusan , Jesenak Milos
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Immune checkpoint inhibitors such as PD-1 and TIM-3 play an important role in regulating the host immune response and are proposed as potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in severe cases of COVID-19. We evaluated the expression of PD-1 and TIM-3 on T cells, as well as the concentration of sPD-1 in plasma, to clarify the role of these molecules in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective observational study, we analysed the expression of PD-1 and TIM-3 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells upon admission and after 7 days of hospitalisation in 770 adult patients. We also evaluated sPD-1 levels in the plasma of 145 patients at different stages of COVID-19 and of 11 control subjects. Molecules were determined using conventional flow cytometry and ELISA and the data were statistically processed. Results: We observed a significantly higher expression of PD-1 on CD4+ cells in deceased patients than in those with mild-to-moderate disease. All patients with COVID-19 exhibited a significantly higher expression of TIM-3 on both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells compared to controls. After 1 week of hospitalisation, there was no significant change in PD-1 or TIM-3 expression on CD4+ or CD8+ T cells across the studied groups. sPD-1 concentrations were not significantly different between survivors and non-survivors. Plasma sPD-1 levels did not correlate with PD-1 expression on T cells, but a significant correlation was observed between CD4+ PD-1 and CD8+ PD-1. Using machine-learning algorithms, we supported our observations and confirmed immunological variables capable of predicting survival, with AUC = 0.786. Conclusions: Analysis of the immune response may be useful for monitoring and predicting the course of COVID-19 upon admission. However, it is essential to evaluate complex immune parameters in conjunction with other key clinical and laboratory indicators.
Assessing a Multilayered Hydrophilic–Electrocatalytic Forward Osmosis Membrane for Ammonia Electro-Oxidation
Authors: Cruz-Tato Perla , Penabad Laura I. , Lasalde César , Rodríguez-Rolón Alondra S. , Nicolau Eduardo
Published: January 2025

Over the years, the ammonia concentration in water streams and the environment is increasing at an alarming rate. Many membrane-based processes have been studied to alleviate this concern via adsorption and filtration. On the other hand, ammonia electro-oxidation is an approach of particular interest owing to its energetic and environmental benefits. Thus, a plausible alternative to combine these two paths is by using an electroconductive membrane (ECM) to complete the ammonia oxidation reaction (AOR). This combination of processes has been studied very limitedly, and it can be an area for development. Herein, we developed a multilayered membrane with hydrophilic and electrocatalytic properties capable of completing the AOR. The porosity of carbon black (CB) particles was embedded in the polymeric support (CBES) and the active side was composed of a triple layer consisting of polyamide/CB/Pt nanoparticles (PA:CB:Pt). The CBES increased the membrane porosity, changed the pores morphology, and enhanced water permeability and electroconductivity. The deposition of each layer was monitored and corroborated physically, chemically, and electrochemically. The final membrane CBES:PA:VXC:Pt reached higher water flux than its PSF counterpart (3.9 ± 0.3 LMH), had a hydrophilic surface (water contact angle: 19.8 ± 0.4°), and achieved the AOR at −0.3 V vs. Ag/AgCl. Our results suggest that ECMs with conductive material in both membrane layers enhanced their electrical properties. Moreover, this study is proof-of-concept that the AOR can be succeeded by a polymeric FO-ECMs.
The Role of Adaptive Leadership in Times of Crisis: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Framework
Authors: Sott Michele Kremer , Bender Mariluza Sott
Published: January 2025

Leading multidisciplinary teams requires not only strong leadership skills, but also a supportive organizational environment. This study examines the key characteristics necessary for adaptive leadership and identifies the main organizational factors that facilitate its development. A systematic literature review, following the PRISMA-P protocol, was conducted, analyzing 33 studies on the traits of adaptive leaders and relevant organizational factors. Based on these findings, we propose a conceptual framework representing the feedback cycle of the adaptive leadership process within organizations and present three propositions associated with this model. The results indicate that the primary characteristics of adaptive leaders include flexibility, empathy, innovation, and long-term vision. Conversely, organizations possess factors that can either facilitate or hinder the development of adaptive leadership, such as organizational culture, structure, innovation history, and strategy. The findings emphasize that orchestrating adaptive teams during times of crisis is especially challenging, requiring additional competencies in resilience and adaptability. This study contributes to the literature by identifying the essential capabilities of adaptive leaders and discussing key considerations for leaders and practitioners seeking to transition from traditional to adaptive leadership.
MXene–MWCNT Conductive Network for Long-Lasting Wearable Strain Sensors with Gesture Recognition Capabilities
Authors: Wang Fei , Yu Hongchen , Lv Xue , Ma Xingyu , Qu Quanlin , Wang Hanning , Chen Da , Liu Yijian
Published: January 2025

In this work, a conductive composite film composed of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and multi-layer Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets is used to construct a strain sensor on sandpaper Ecoflex substrate. The composite material forms a sophisticated conductive network with exceptional electrical conductivity, resulting in sensors with broad detection ranges and high sensitivities. The findings indicate that the strain sensing range of the Ecoflex/Ti3C2Tx/MWCNT strain sensor, when the mass ratio is set to 5:2, extends to 240%, with a gauge factor (GF) of 933 within the strain interval from 180% to 240%. The strain sensor has demonstrated its robustness by enduring more than 33,000 prolonged stretch-and-release cycles at 20% cyclic tensile strain. Moreover, a fast response time of 200 ms and detection limit of 0.05% are achieved. During application, the sensor effectively enables the detection of diverse physiological signals in the human body. More importantly, its application in a data glove that is coupled with machine learning and uses the Support Vector Machine (SVM) model trained on the collected gesture data results in an impressive recognition accuracy of 93.6%.
The Impact of Viral Concentration Method on Quantification and Long Amplicon Nanopore Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 and Noroviruses in Wastewater
Authors: Scott George , Evens Nicholas P. , Porter Jonathan , Walker David I.
Published: January 2025

Wastewater-based surveillance has gained attention in the four years following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Accurate pathogen detection, quantification and characterisation rely on the selection of appropriate methodologies. Here, we explore the impact of viral concentration method on RT-qPCR inhibition and quantification of norovirus genogroups I and II (GI and GII), crAssphage, phi6 and SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, their impact on long amplicon sequencing for typing noroviruses and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) SARS-CoV-2 was explored. RT-qPCR inhibition for each viral concentration method was significantly different apart from the two ultrafiltration methods, InnovaPrep® concentrating pipette (IP) and Vivaspin® (VS) centrifugal concentrators. Using an ultrafiltration method reduced inhibition by 62.0% to 96.0% compared to the ammonium sulphate (AS) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation-based methods. Viral quantification was significantly impacted by concentration method with the highest concentrations (copies/L) observed for VS with 7.2- to 83.2-fold differences from AS depending on the target. Norovirus long amplicon sequencing showed genotype-dependent differences with IP performing best for GI and VS for GII although IP performance gains for GI were relatively small. VS outperformed AS and IP across all metrics during SARS-CoV-2 WGS. Overall, VS performed the best when considering all the areas of investigation.
Investigation of the Structure and Functional Activity of the YqeK Protein in Streptococcus pyogenes with High Efficiency in Hydrolyzing Ap4A
Authors: Yang Kai , Hu Suhua , Yao Yao , Li Kaijie , Wang Zunbao , Wang Xinyu , Ma Dan , Bi Mingfang , Mo Xiaobing
Published: January 2025

Streptococcus pyogenes is an important zoonotic Gram-positive bacterium that appears in chains, without spores or flagella, and belongs to the beta-hemolytic streptococci. It can be transmitted through droplets or contact, with the preferred antibiotics being penicillin, erythromycin, or cephalosporins. However, the misuse of these drugs has led to antibiotic resistance, posing a significant threat to both human and animal health. Studying resistance genes encoding proteins is crucial for mitigating the emergence of resistant strains and improving treatment outcomes. Interestingly, a dinucleotide known as diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A) exists in Streptococcus pyogenes; its accumulation in response to various stress signals can inhibit bacterial pathogenicity and enhance antibiotic susceptibility. Our research focuses on the Sp-yqeK protein, which we have identified as a hydrolase that symmetrically cleaves Ap4A. The Sp-yqeK protein effectively cleaves Ap4A, producing adenosine diphosphate (ADP) molecules. Results indicate that this enzyme exhibits optimal activity at pH 7.0 and a temperature of 45 °C. Furthermore, we determined the crystal structure of the Sp-yqeK, Mg2+, and ADP complex at a resolution of 2.0 Å, providing insights into the interactions crucial for catalytic efficiency between Sp-yqeK and ADP. This complex reveals unique folding characteristics of the HD domain superfamily proteins, accommodating both ADP and Mg2+. These components are securely embedded into the polar cavity of the yqeK protein through conserved residues (His29, Lys62, His91, His117, Asp135, Leu172, Phe180, and Thr183), highlighting the residues responsible for Ap4A hydrolysis and Mg2+ binding. Our research offers a deeper understanding of the hydrolysis mechanism of Ap4A and the specificity of Sp-yqeK, providing structural insights that may support future studies on antibiotic resistance in Streptococcus pyogenes and other Gram-positive bacteria.
Association of the PhoQ/PhoP Stress Response System with the Internalization of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Romaine Lettuce
Authors: Chenggeer Fnu , Zheng Guolu , Mustapha Azlin
Published: January 2025

Foodborne illness associated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157) and romaine lettuce is a serious and persistent food safety issue. This study investigated the ability and associated genetic traits of five E. coli O157 strains—namely 86-24, 93-111, C7927, MF1847, and 505B—to internalize in romaine lettuce grown in soil and hydroponic systems. The results showed significant variations in the strains’ ability to internalize, with soil cultivation being more susceptible to E. coli O157 internalization relative to hydroponics. Whole-genome comparisons and an analysis of the five E. coli O157 strains revealed insights into the potential genetic traits associated with internalization capacity. A single unique gene, ORF-4296, was found to be present in all four internalizing strains (86-24, 93-111, C7927, and MF1847), but absent in the non-internalizing strain 505B. Immediately downstream of OFR-4296 is the PhoQ/PhoP operon, which regulates the important stress responses of E. coli O157. Our data showed that this operon was identical in the four internalizing strains but different in strain 505B. Specifically, the C-terminal of PhoQ in strain 505B had a distinct amino acid sequence. The inability of 505B to internalize may be linked to its lack of ORF-4296 and its distinctive C-terminal sequence of PhoQ.
Combined Analysis of Transcriptomes and Metabolomes Reveals Key Genes and Substances That Affect the Formation of a Multi-Species Biofilm by Nine Gut Bacteria
Authors: Zhang Ting , Pei Zhangming , Wang Hongchao , Zhao Jianxin , Chen Wei , Lu Wenwei
Published: January 2025

Biofilms are one of the ways microorganisms exist in natural environments. In recent years, research has gradually shifted its focus to exploring the complexity and interactions of multi-species biofilms. A study showed that nine gut bacteria can form a multi-species biofilm on wheat fibers (M9 biofilm). However, the previous study did not clarify the reasons why M9 exhibited a better biofilm formation ability than the mono-species biofilms. In this study, the gene expression levels and metabolic accumulation of the M9 multi-species biofilm and biofilms of each individual bacterium were analyzed using transcriptomes and metabolomes. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) showed that there were 740 common DEGs that existed in all of the nine groups, and they could regulate five pathways related to bacterial motility, cellular communication, and signal transduction. The metabolome results revealed that many peptides/amino acids and derivatives were produced in the M9 biofilm. Furthermore, purine metabolism was significantly enhanced in the M9 biofilm. L-arginine, l-serine, guanosine, and hypoxanthine were the common differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs). The combined analysis of the transcriptomes and metabolomes showed that there were 26 common DEGs highly correlated with the four common DAMs, and they were involved in five metabolic pathways related to amino acids and purines. These results indicate that M9 can regulate multi-species biofilm formation by modulating genes related to bacterial motility, cellular communication, signal transduction, and the metabolism of amino acids and purines. This study provides insights into the interactions of microbial biofilms.
Alleviation of Acute Heat Stress in Broiler Chickens by Dietary Supplementation of Polyphenols from Shredded, Steam-Exploded Pine Particles
Authors: Goel Akshat , Ncho Chris-Major , Jeong Chae-Mi , Gupta Vaishali , Jung Ji-Young , Ha Si-Young , Yang Jae-Kyung , Choi Yang-Ho
Published: January 2025

Reducing the detrimental effects of heat stress (HS) in poultry is essential to minimize production losses. The present study evaluates the effects of dietary polyphenols prepared from underutilized wood byproducts on the growth, gut health, and cecal microbiota in broilers subjected to acute heat stress (AHS). One hundred eight one-day-old Indian River broilers were fed with 0%, 0.5%, or 1% polyphenols from shredded, steam-exploded pine particles (PSPP) in their diet. On the 37th day, forty birds were equally distributed among four groups containing either a control diet at thermoneutral temperatures (NT0%) or AHS temperatures with 0% (AHS0%), 0.5% (AHS0.5%), and 1% (AHS1%) PSPP-supplemented diets. The temperature in the NT room was maintained at 21.0 °C, while, in the AHS room, it was increased to 31 °C. AHS negatively influenced performance parameters and increased rectal temperature (RT) in broilers. The AHS0% group showed a higher expression of NOX4, HSP-70, and HSP-90 genes, while the expression was lower in PSPP-supplemented birds. In the jejunum, mRNA expression of SOD was increased in all the birds under AHS compared to NT. The expression of the CLDN1 and ZO2 genes was increased in AHS0%, while that of the ZO1 and MUC2 genes was increased in PSPP-supplemented birds. HS tends to increase TLR2 and TLR4 gene expression in chickens. The significantly modified genera were Bariatricus, Sporobacter, Sporanaerobacter, and Natranaerovirga. Concludingly, AHS negatively influences the performance parameters, RT, stress, gut-health-related genes, and pathogenic penetration, but PSPP supplementation reduces its bad impact by overcoming the stress and gut-health-related genes, increasing favorable bacterial abundance and reducing pathogenic penetration in chickens.
Key Characteristics and Controlling Factors of the Gas Reservoir in the Fourth Member of the Ediacaran Dengying Formation in the Penglai Gas Field, Sichuan Basin
Authors: Chen Hongwei , Wang Shilin , Mansour Ahmed , Qin Qirong , Ahmed Mohamed S. , Cen Yongjing , Liang Feng , He Yuan , Fan Yi , Gentzis Thomas
Published: January 2025

This study focuses on the PS8 well in the Penglai Gas Field (Sichuan Basin), a newly identified key exploration area, where high-yield gas testing has been achieved from the Ediacaran Fourth Member of the Dengying Formation. Comprehensive analyses of drilling cores, cuttings, thin sections, analytical data, well logging, and production testing data were conducted to investigate the main characteristics of the gas reservoir and the factors controlling the formation model of the reservoir. The results reveal that the reservoir rocks in the Fourth Member of the Dengying Formation are primarily algal-clotted dolomite, algal-laminated dolomite, and arenaceous dolomite. The reservoir porosity is dominated by secondary pores, such as algal-bonded framework pores, intergranular dissolved pores, and intercrystalline dissolved pores, which contribute to the overall low porosity and extremely low permeability. The gas reservoir is classified as a unified structural–lithological reservoir, with the upper sub-member of the Fourth Member serving as a completely gas-bearing unit. This unit is characterized as an ultra-deep, dry gas reservoir with medium sulfur and medium CO2 contents. The development of this gas reservoir follows a “laterally generated and laterally stored, upper generation and lower storage” reservoir formation model. Regional unconformities and fracture systems developed during the Tongwan II Episode tectonic movement provide efficient pathways for hydrocarbon migration and accumulation. The high-quality source rocks in the lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation serve as both the direct cap rock and lateral seal of the gas reservoir, creating an optimal source–reservoir spatial configuration. This study provides valuable insights into the giant gas reservoir of the Dengying Formation, which can aid in optimizing exploration activities in the Sichuan Basin.
Geotechnical and Hydrogeological Zonation of Tailings Storage Facilities: Importance for Design, Construction, Operation, and Closure
Authors: Rodríguez-Pacheco Roberto , Butlanska Joanna , Oliva-González Aldo Onel
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a conceptual model for understanding the hydromechanical behavior and zonation within tailings storage facilities (TSFs) constructed using the hydraulic backfill method, which constitutes over 98% of TSFs worldwide. The model identifies four distinct zones—dike, discharge, transition, and distal—each characterized by unique physical, geotechnical, and hydraulic properties. Key findings highlight gradients in parameters which systematically vary from the dam toward the settling pond. This study observes that seven parameters such as grain size, friction angle, shear strength, dry density, permeability, shear wave velocities, and liquefaction capacity decrease in value from the dike to the lagoon. Conversely, thirteen parameters such as fine content, porosity, cohesion, plasticity, degree of saturation, volumetric and gravimetric water content, capillary height, specific and volumetric surface of tailings, suction, air and water entry value in the soil water characteristic curve increase in value from the dike to the lagoon. These trends underscore the complex behavior of tailings and their implications for stability, drainage, and environmental impact. By integrating geological, geotechnical, hydrogeological, and geophysical data, this study provides a holistic framework for TSF management, addressing both current challenges and long-term environmental considerations.
Effective Factors for Optimizing Metallophthalocyanine-Based Optoelectronic Devices: Surface—Molecule Interactions
Authors: Akbari Nia Sakineh , Tomaszowska Aleksandra , Powroźnik Paulina , Krzywiecki Maciej
Published: January 2025

As a promising structure for fabricating inorganic—organic-based optoelectronic devices, metal—metallophthalocyanine (MPc) hybrid layers are highly important to be considered. The efficient charge injection and transport across the metal/MPc interface are strictly dependent on the precise molecular orientation of the MPcs. Therefore, the efficiency of MPc-based optoelectronic devices strictly depends on the adsorption and orientation of the organic MPc on the inorganic metal substrate. The current review aims to explore the effect of the terminated atoms or surface atoms as an internal stimulus on molecular adsorption and orientation. Here, we investigate the adsorption of five different phthalocyanine molecules—free-based phthalocyanine (H2Pc), copper phthalocyanine (CuPc), iron phthalocyanine (FePc), cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc), vanadyl phthalocyanine (VOPc)—on three metallic substrates: gold (Au), silver (Ag), and copper (Cu). This topic can guide new researchers to find out how molecular adsorbance and orientation determine the electronic structure by considering the surface–molecule interactions.
From the Soil to the Wine—Elements’ Migration in Monovarietal Bulgarian Wines
Authors: Mladenova Elisaveta , Voyslavov Tsvetomil , Bakardzhiyski Ivan , Karadjova Irina
Published: January 2025

Bulgarian wines are renowned worldwide and serve as a symbol of the country. However, ensuring wine authenticity and establishing reliable methods for its assessment are critical challenges in wine quality control. This study investigates the migration of chemical elements within the soil/grape/wine system and utilizes the findings to develop a method for identifying specific elements capable of distinguishing the geographical origin of wine. Additionally, it explores the potential to determine its botanical origin. Thirty monovarietal Bulgarian wines, specifically produced for this study with precisely known geographical and botanical origins, were analyzed for 20 chemical elements. These included macroelements such as Al, B, Ba, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Sr, and Zn, as well as microelements like As, Cd, Co, Cr, Li, Ni, and Pb. The study encompassed white wines from Chardonnay, Muscat Ottonel, Sauvignon Blanc, Tamyanka, and Viognier varieties, as well as red wines from Egiodola, Broad-Leaved Melnik, Cabernet, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Marselan, Melnik, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. The chemical composition was determined in soil extracts (using acetate and EDTA extract to represent the bioavailable fraction), vine leaves, primary musts, and raw wines before clarification and stabilization. Statistically significant correlation coefficients were calculated for the soil/leaves, soil/must, and must/wine systems, enabling an analysis of the migration of chemical elements from soil to wine and the concentration changes throughout the process. The results identified elemental descriptors capable of indicating the geographical origin of wine.
Impact of a Palladium(II)-tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine Complex on Normal Cells: Toxicity and Membrane Interaction
Authors: Pruchnik Hanna , Solarska-Ściuk Katarzyna , Dudek Anita , Włoch Aleksandra
Published: January 2025

Palladium(II) complexes with tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (PdTCEP) show promise for biomedical applications due to their distinct chemical characteristics. This study explored the toxicity of PdTCEP towards normal human cells and examined its interactions with model cell membranes. Two cell types were used to evaluate cytotoxicity: human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) and red blood cells (RBCs). In HMEC-1 cells, PdTCEP reduced survival to about 80% at 15 µM, with the most significant drop—down to 40%—occurring at 40 µM. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased in a manner dependent on both dose and time, especially after 72 h of incubation. Despite these effects, PdTCEP caused only minor hemolysis in RBCs, with hemolysis levels staying below 10% even at higher concentrations. Fluorescence anisotropy measurements showed that PdTCEP minimally affects the hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer, with slight changes observed at concentrations above 40 µM. Generalized polarization (GP) analysis indicated a slight decrease in lipid polar head packing with increasing PdTCEP concentration. Complementary FTIR analysis supported these findings by providing detailed insights into PdTCEP-membrane interactions. This research underscores PdTCEP’s selective cytotoxicity and structural effects on membranes, suggesting its promise for more in-depth biological and pharmacological studies.
Extraction of Chlorogenic Acid Using Single and Mixed Solvents
Authors: Jeon Hyeon Ji , Lee Bong-Seop , Park Changhyup
Published: January 2025

Chlorogenic acid, which is extracted from a wide range of natural sources, is attracting the attention of many researchers in the pharmaceutical and biomedical fields due to its various positive effects, such as such as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Considering the effects of economics and solvent toxicity, water, ethanol, and their mixtures were selected as the solvents for extracting chlorogenic acid at various temperatures (298~318 K) and over a whole range of concentrations. The solubility of chlorogenic acid increased with temperature regardless of the solvents, and the solubility was higher in pure ethanol than in pure water. The solubility of chlorogenic acid in mixed solvents exhibited a gradual rise as the water content increased, reaching a maximum at a specific water weight fraction. These trends were well predicted by the COSMO-SAC model and Hansen solubility parameter method. By comparing the σ-profile, it was confirmed that the maximum solubility in mixed solvent comes from the similarity of σ-profiles between chlorogenic acid and mixed solvent which represents the surface charge density of the molecule.
Optimized Methods to Quantify Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields)-Induced Permeabilization of Glioblastoma Cell Membranes
Authors: Martinez-Paniagua Melisa , Khan Sabbir , Henning Nikita W. , Konagalla Sri Vaishnavi , Patel Chirag B.
Published: January 2025

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a lethal primary brain cancer with a 5.6% five-year survival rate. Tumor treating fields (TTFields) are alternating low-intensity electric fields that have demonstrated a GBM patient survival benefit. We previously reported that 0.5–24 h of TTFields exposure resulted in an increased uptake of FITC-dextran fluorescent probes (4–20 kDa) in human GBM cells. However, this approach, in which a fluorescence plate-based detector is used to evaluate cells attached to glass coverslips, cannot distinguish FITC-dextran uptake in live vs. dead cells. The goal of the study was to report the optimization and validation of two independent methods to quantify human GBM cell membrane permeabilization induced by TTFields exposure. First, we optimized flow cytometry by measuring mean fluorescence intensity at 72 h for 4 kDa (TTFields 6726 ± 958.0 vs. no-TTFields 5093 ± 239.7, p = 0.016) and 20 kDa (7087 ± 1137 vs. 5055 ± 897.8, p = 0.031) probes. Second, we measured the ratio of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to cell viability (measured using the CellTiter-Glo [CTG] viability assay); the LDH/CTG ratio was higher under TTFields (1.47 ± 0.15) than no-TTFields (1.08 ± 0.08) conditions, p < 0.0001. The findings using these two independent methods reproducibly demonstrated their utility for time-dependent evaluations. We also showed that these methods can be used to relate the cell membrane-permeabilizing effects of the non-ionizing radiation of TTFields to that of an established cell membrane permeabilizer, the non-ionic detergent Triton-X-100. Evaluating carboplatin ± TTFields, the LDH/CTG ratio was significantly higher in the TTFields vs. no-TTFields condition at each carboplatin concentration (0–30 µM), p = 0.014. We successfully optimized and validated two cost-effective methods to reproducibly quantify TTFields-induced human GBM cancer cell membrane permeabilization.
Spectroscopic Ellipsometry and Correlated Studies of AlGaN-GaN HEMTs Prepared by MOCVD
Authors: Yang Yanlian , Liu Yao , Li Yaoze , Nafisa Manika Tun , Feng Zhe Chuan , Wang Lianshan , Yiin Jeffrey , Wan Lingyu , Klein Benjamin , Ferguson Ian , Sun Wenhong
Published: January 2025

A series of AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistor (HEMT) structures, with an AlN thin buffer, GaN thick layer and Al0.25Ga0.75N layer (13–104 nm thick), is prepared by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition and investigated via multiple techniques. Spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) and temperature-dependent measurements and penetrative analyses have achieved significant understanding of these HEMT structures. Bandgaps of AlGaN and GaN are acquired via SE-deduced relationships of refraction index n and extinguish coefficient k vs. wavelength λ in a simple but straightforward way. The optical constants of n and k, and the energy gap Eg of AlGaN layers, are found slightly altered with the variation in AlGaN layer thickness. The Urbach energy EU at the AlGaN and GaN layers are deduced. High-resolution X-ray diffraction and calculations determined the extremely low screw dislocation density of 1.6 × 108 cm−2. The top AlGaN layer exhibits a tensile stress influenced by the under beneath GaN and its crystalline quality is improved with the increase in thickness. Comparative photoluminescence (PL) experiments using 266 nm and 325 nm two excitations reveal and confirm the 2DEG within the AlGaN-GaN HEMT structures. DUV (266 nm) excitation Raman scattering and calculations acquired carrier concentrations in compatible AlGaN and GaN layers.