bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wheat Leaf Rust Effector Pt48115 Localized in the Chloroplasts and Suppressed Wheat Immunity
Authors: Song Lulu , Cui Liping , Li Hao , Zhang Na , Yang Wenxiang
Published: January 2025

Wheat leaf rust caused by Puccinia triticina (Pt) is a prevalent disease worldwide, seriously threatening wheat production. Pt acquires nutrients from host cells via haustoria and secretes effector proteins to modify and regulate the expression of host disease resistance genes, thereby facilitating pathogen growth and reproduction. The study of effector proteins is of great significance for clarifying the pathogenic mechanisms of Pt and effective control of leaf rust. Herein, we report a wheat leaf rust candidate effector protein Pt48115 that is highly expressed in the late stages of infection during wheat–Pt interaction. Pt48115 contains a signal peptide with a secretory function and a transit peptide that can translocate Pt48115 to the host chloroplasts. The amino acid sequence polymorphism analysis of Pt48115 in seven different leaf rust races showed that it was highly conserved. Pt48115 inhibited cell death induced by Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX) from mice or infestans 1 (INF1) from Phytophthora infestans in Nicotiana benthamiana and by DC3000 in wheat, and its 145–175 amino acids of the C-terminal are critical for its function. Furthermore, Pt48115 inhibited callose deposition and reactive oxygen species accumulation in the wheat cultivar Thatcher, demonstrating that it is an effector that enhances Pt virulence by suppressing wheat defense responses. Our findings lay a foundation for future studies on the pathogenesis of Pt during wheat–fungus interaction.
Occurrence of Pathogenic and Allergenic Molds in the Outdoor and Indoor Environment of a Major Hospital and Molecular Epidemiology of Aspergillus fumigatus in Kuwait
Authors: Asadzadeh Mohammad , Ahmad Suhail , Hagen Ferry , Meis Jacques F. , Khan Ziauddin
Published: January 2025

Aspergilli and other molds are prevalent in the environment and are an important cause of opportunistic infections and seasonal allergies in susceptible patients. This study determined species distribution of various molds in outdoor/indoor air in and around a major hospital and performed antifungal susceptibility testing and molecular fingerprinting of environmental and clinical Aspergillus fumigatus isolates in Kuwait. Sampling for the isolation of molds was performed for a 17-month-period from the water/indoor air of medical/surgical wards/ICUs and outdoor air. Molds were identified by phenotypic characteristics and/or by the PCR-sequencing of rDNA/β-tubulin/calmodulin genes. Antifungal susceptibility testing was done by Etest. Fingerprinting was performed by nine-loci-based microsatellite analysis. A total of 6179 isolates were obtained from outdoor (n = 4406) and indoor (n = 1773) environments. These included Cladosporium spp. (n = 2311), Aspergillus spp. (n = 1327), Penicillium spp. (n = 1325), Paecilomyces spp. (n = 473), Alternaria spp. (n = 218), Bipolaris spp. (n = 133), and other molds (n = 392). Fingerprinting data revealed heterogeneity among clinical and environmental A. fumigatus and shared genotypes among outdoor air and hospital environmental isolates. Itraconazole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates with TR34/L98H mutations in Cyp51A were also recovered from outdoor air (n = 1), a hospital environment (n = 3), and clinical samples (n = 2). More than 15 fungal genera and all four Aspergillus (Nigri, Flavi, Fumigati, and Terrei) sections and nine rare aspergilli were detected. The isolation frequency was higher during the peak allergy season of October/November. The presence of shared genotypes among outdoor air and the hospital environment including triazole-resistant A. fumigatus suggests a reservoir for invasive infections among susceptible hospitalized patients.
Spatial Patterns and Characteristics of Urban–Rural Agricultural Landscapes: A Case Study of Bengaluru, India
Authors: Wijesingha Jayan , Astor Thomas , Nautiyal Sunil , Wachendorf Michael
Published: January 2025

Globally, the agricultural landscape is the most exposed due to urbanisation. Therefore, finding the spatial and temporal patterns of changes in agricultural landscapes is essential for sustainable development. This study developed a workflow to address this information gap and determine the spatial patterns and characteristics of agricultural landscapes along an urban–rural gradient. The workflow comprised three steps. First, remote sensing data were classified to map crop types. Second, landscape metrics were used to examine the spatial patterns of agricultural land cover concerning urbanisation levels. Finally, unsupervised clustering was applied to categorise agricultural landscape types along the urban–rural interface. The workflow was tested using WorldView-3 satellite data in Bengaluru, India. It identified four major herbaceous crop types (millet, maize, pulses, and cash crops) and woody plantations as agricultural land cover. An analysis revealed that agricultural land cover increased from urban to rural areas, with diverse patterns in transition zones. The cluster analysis characterised four agricultural landscapes. The findings imply that changes in an agricultural landscape along an urban–rural gradient are not linear. The newly developed integrated workflow empowers stakeholders to make informed and well-reasoned decisions, and it can be periodically implemented to maintain the ongoing monitoring of urbanisation’s effect on food systems.
Changes in Ecological–Production–Social Functions in Karst Areas: Insight from Guizhou Province, South China Karst
Authors: Zhao Rong , Xiong Kangning , Lan Anjun , Chen Qiwei , Liu Zhaojun , Feng Fangli , Yu Nana
Published: January 2025

The ecosystems and human social systems in karst areas are undergoing rapid development. In this context, effectively identifying changes in the various functions of karst areas is crucial for formulating accurate sustainable development policies. However, few studies have discussed the ecological, production, and social functions of karst areas within an integrated framework. Therefore, this paper utilizes comprehensive evaluation methods, standard deviation classification, and coordination models to analyze the spatiotemporal changes in these functions of karst areas from 2000 to 2020. The results indicate that over the 20-year period, the ecological function, production function, and social function in karst areas have shown an annual growth trend with noticeable spatiotemporal differentiation. The dominant functions of the area have undergone significant changes, with the ecological function being dominant in 2000, the production function becoming dominant in 2010, and the social function taking the lead in 2020. Over the past 20 years, the lagged development type has remained the predominant combined function type. The coordination levels among the three functions have significantly improved, with the coordination between the ecological function and the production function transitioning from non-coordination to coordination in 2010. Furthermore, the coordination between the ecological function and the social function, and between the production function and the social function, achieved coordination status in 2020. This study enhances the understanding of the multifunctional evolution in karst areas and provides theoretical and practical guidance for ecological restoration, industrial development, and social reconstruction in karst areas.
Genetic Variants of Interleukin-8 and Interleukin-16 and Their Association with Cervical Cancer Risk
Authors: Watrowski Rafał , Schuster Eva , Polterauer Stefan , Van Gorp Toon , Hofstetter Gerda , Fischer Michael B. , Mahner Sven , Zeillinger Robert , Obermayr Eva
Published: January 2025

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth most common cancer diagnosis in women worldwide. Infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is a critical but not determinative condition for CC development, as several co-factors modulate the progression of HPV-associated cervical lesions. Interleukin-8 (IL-8) and Interleukin-16 (IL-16) are chemokine-like interleukins involved in the pathogenesis of various cancers. Singular studies in Asian populations have suggested a potential role of IL-8 rs4073 (−251 A>T) and IL-16 rs1131445 (3′UTR T>C) in cervical carcinogenesis. Methods: A case-control study was conducted in a European cohort of 339 women, including 126 CC patients and 213 controls. Four common IL-8 SNPs, rs4073 (−251 A>T), rs2227306 (+781 C>T), rs1126647 (+2767 A>T), and rs2227543 (+1633 C>T), and four IL-16 polymorphism, rs4778889 (−295 T>C), rs11556218 (3441 T>G), rs4072111 (1300 C>T), and rs1131445 (3′UTR T>C), were assessed using RFLP-PCR and analyzed under seven inheritance models. Subgroup analyses were stratified by menopausal status (age threshold 51 years), disease stage, and histological subtype. Results: IL-16 rs4072111 was significantly associated with an increased CC risk in premenopausal women in the co-dominant (p = 0.038), dominant (p = 0.022), and heterozygote (p = 0.045) models, identifying the T allele as the risk allele (OR 2.31, CI95% 1.17–4.56; p = 0.017). In women aged over 51, IL-16 rs4778889 was associated with CC in the heterozygote (p = 0.048) and overdominant (p = 0.042) models but not in the co-dominant model (p = 0.092). None of the analyzed SNPs significantly increased CC risk in the entire cohort. Specifically, neither IL-16 rs1131445 nor IL-8 rs4073, previously reported as risk factors in Asian populations, were associated with CC risk in this European cohort. Conclusions: These findings highlight the role of age stage in immunity and cancer susceptibility, suggest that IL-8 and IL-16 SNPs may function differently in cervical carcinogenesis compared with other cancers, and emphasize the importance of ethnic background in cancer risk, warranting further research.
Monitoring the Effectiveness of Emergent Detached Offshore Structures in Mangrove Vegetation Increase: Lessons and Recommendations
Authors: Phong Nguyen Tan , Thuan Nguyen Bao , Tien Nguyen Ngoc
Published: January 2025

Although successful in protecting planted mangrove plants, the effectiveness of emergent detached offshore structures in increasing vegetation cover has yet to be definitively determined. We selected Tien Giang Province, Vietnam as an appropriate case study to address this question. We analyzed multiyear (2000 and 2022) shoreline changes and calculated the enhanced vegetation index (EVI) together with ground truthing in pursuit of the objectives of the study. Our findings suggest that emergent detached offshore structures have yet to lead to an increase in vegetation cover or promote mangrove growth. The vegetation growth steadily increased, as did the high level of natural mangrove growth with fully grown mangrove trees, even before the structures were constructed. By 2015, all the categories increased slightly except for low vegetation cover (LVC) and medium vegetation cover (MVC). LVC decreased from 390 ha in 2010 to 291 ha in 2015, while MVC decreased from 305 ha in 2010 to 275 ha in 2015. By 2020, all the categories decreased slightly except for non-vegetation cover—Barren lands (NVC2) and MVC. NVC2 decreased slightly from 404 ha in 2015 to 368 ha in 2015. The MVC decreased slightly from 275 ha in 2015 to 212 ha in 2020. Non-vegetation cover—Intertidal mudflats (NVC1)—LVC, and high vegetation cover (HVC) increased slightly from 2015 (326 ha, 291 ha, and 249 ha, respectively) to 2020 (368 ha, 292 ha, and 298 ha, respectively). By 2022, NVC2, MVC, and HVC remained unchanged, while NVC1 and LVC increased slightly from 368 ha and 292 ha in 2015, respectively, to 380 ha and 302 ha, respectively. The increase in vegetation cover and the natural regeneration of mangrove species were partly due to the adaptation of mangrove species to the site (river mouth areas), particularly the protection provided by Ngang Island offshore, and the construction of these structures. In addition, these structures were constructed in a rather stable area (slightly eroded and estuarine area) and therefore have yet to provide any noticeable benefits for mangrove regeneration three to five years after their construction. In the future, the morpho dynamic and hydrodynamic elements of the site should be adequately considered during the design and construction of these structures to increase vegetation cover and promote natural mangrove regeneration.
Adventitial Cystic Disease of the Popliteal Artery with Nocturnal Rest Pain
Authors: Keshelava Grigol , Malikov Serguei
Published: January 2025

Arterial cystic disease (ACD) affecting the popliteal artery (PA) is a rare form of non-atherosclerotic vascular disease. This cystic tumor is defined by the accumulation of a mucinous substance in the adventitia. Treatment options include percutaneous cyst aspiration, percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty, the evacuation of the cyst through a surgical approach, and resection of the affected artery segment followed by arterial reconstruction using autologous venous or prosthetic grafting. Our hospital received a 36-year-old man who had an intermittent claudication and periodically nocturnal rest pain in the left lower limb. Duplex scanning and CTA showed an entrapment of the left PA by a structure related to the arterial wall with an approximate 80% stenosis. The pedal and posterior tibial pulses faded when the knee was flexed. The ACD of the PA was diagnosed. An excision of an affected arterial segment and revascularization of the PA with great saphenous vein procedures were performed. We were unable to locate any instances in the literature of ACD accompanied by nocturnal rest pain that resembled the case we have presented. At a seventeen-year follow-up, the patient’s condition was reported as normal with no intermittent claudication or rest pain in the left lower limb.
Epidemiology of Biliary Acute Pancreatitis—A Seven-Year Experience of a Large Tertiary Center
Authors: Edu Andrei Vicențiu , Pahomeanu Mihai Radu , Olăreanu Alexandru , Corbu Dana Gabriela , Treteanu Andreea Ramona , Constantinescu Alexandru , Șandru Vasile , Zărnescu Narcis Octavian , Negreanu Lucian
Published: January 2025

(1) Introduction: One of the most common causes of acute pancreatitis is cholelithiasis, which is considered to be associated with female sex, older age, and recurrence. Our aim was to define a group of patients with B-AP to facilitate their diagnosis and management, while more judiciously using medical resources. (2) Materials and Methods: This retrospective, large cohort study, which was conducted by extracting data from the BUC-API registry, consisted of 1855 cases between 1 June 2015 and 1 April 2022. Each admission of the same patient was considered a separate case if it did not have signs of chronic pancreatitis. Severity and morphology were stratified according to the Revised Atlanta Classification. (3) Results: A total of 732 cases of B-AP were analyzed, with 92.5% occurring at the first attack. The median age was 65 years, with 61.9% of the patients being female. The majority (82.2%) were surgical cases, and the length of stay (LoS) was 7 days. There were 10.2% severe cases, with a mortality rate of 4%. (4) Discussion: We found positive associations between sex, age, recurrence, and morphology and biliary etiology. Compared with the general population, female sex and age over 65 years correlate better with a biliary etiology. In most scenarios, patients suffer from first attacks, with a lower probability of developing local complications. There was a tendency for biliary pancreatitis patients to be admitted to surgical wards.
A Preliminary Investigation into Penicillium spp. Growth on Peanuts During Drying and Storage
Authors: Campaniello Daniela , d’Amelio Annalisa , Guerrieri Angela , Accettulli Alessandra , De Santis Alessandro , Bevilacqua Antonio
Published: January 2025

Fungal contamination represents a significant threat during peanut storage. In this research, a strain of Penicillium spp. was used as a test microorganism to assess its viability during peanut storage over 30 days at three different temperatures (4, 15, and 25 °C) and at two different inoculum levels (low-2 log CFU/g and high-5 log CFU/g). Two peanut types were tested: the Spanish type and the Virginia type. Independently of spore age, the fungus survived throughout the storage period, and in some samples (low inoculum Virginia-type peanuts) its level increased. In the second phase, four drying treatments, differing in temperature and duration, were tested. Fungal inactivation primarily depended on the temperature, while the duration of the drying process did not have a significant effect. At low temperatures, fungal inactivation was minimal and not statistically significant, suggesting that low-temperature treatments could pose a potential health risk.
Analysis of Lubrication Characteristics and Friction Test of Texture Topography of Angular Contact Ball Bearing Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Li Zhi , Yin Shijie , Zhang Qisheng , Zhang Xiqing , Zhang Hong
Published: January 2025

A textured surface topography can be used to improve the lubrication performance of bearings. These improvements are closely related to the design of the textured topography. Therefore, studying the effect of the textured topography of rolling bearings on lubrication performance is significant. This study used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technology to simulate and analyze the lubrication of an angular contact ball bearing under different working conditions. We studied the influence of a textured topography with different area occupancy rates on the oil-phase volume fraction, as well as the lubrication effect of the textured surface on the bearing’s inner ring and chamber at different rotational speeds and oil inlet speeds. We conducted friction characteristic experiments on point–contact friction pairs using a friction and wear tester. The effects of different loads and rotational speeds on the friction characteristics and surface wear of textured and smooth surfaces were analyzed. The results indicate that the oil-phase volume fraction is always higher than that of the conventional bearing in the inner ring and chamber of a textured bearing. The textured bearing exhibited better lubrication and friction performance. Different textured topographies have different positive effects on lubrication performance, and the influence of the working conditions should be fully considered to achieve these improvements.
Laudatio: Miguel Julve and Francisco Lloret, a Friendly Pair of Two Exceptional Coordination Chemists in Molecular Magnetism
Authors: Verdaguer Michel
Published: January 2025

This laudatio is dedicated to Professors Miguel Julve Olcina and Francisco Lloret Pastor on the occasion of their retirement in 2024. The first part deals with the scientific trajectory of the Coordination Chemistry team at the University of Valencia, within the Department of Inorganic Chemistry on the Burjassot campus and then in the Paterna Institute of Molecular Science. The second part relates some of the more salient results of the heritage left by our two colleagues in molecular magnetism, where they developed, in their own way, a rational approach to designing, creating and understanding a wealth of brand new systems from the simplest to Multifunctional Molecule-based Magnetic Materials. The robust and friendly links between our two colleagues are emphasized in the third part.
Rising Above the Limits of Critical Care ECMO: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bertini Pietro , Marabotti Alberto , Meani Paolo , Sangalli Fabio , Paternoster Gianluca
Published: January 2025

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), an advanced life support method, was developed to treat severe cardiac and pulmonary failure in critically ill patients. ECMO was previously used to treat ARDS, cardiogenic shock, and after heart or lung transplant. It has since become a versatile therapeutic and surgical tool. When conventional methods fail, this technique works well for high-risk procedures such as tracheal resections, ventricular tachycardia ablations, and complicated percutaneous coronary interventions. These uses demonstrate ECMO’s ability to oxygenate and stabilize the hemodynamics in challenging clinical circumstances. Clinical studies report survival rates exceeding 60% in ECMO-assisted thoracic surgeries, underscoring its efficacy in these settings. Recent advancements, such as portable ECMO systems and artificial intelligence-driven management tools, have further enhanced the safety and effectiveness of ECMO, enabling its use in diverse clinical environments. However, challenges remain, particularly in patient selection, resource allocation, and addressing ethical dilemmas. The integration of standardized protocols and technological innovations has mitigated complications such as vascular injury and infection, contributing to improved patient outcomes. This review examines ECMO applications and integration into multidisciplinary care, its configurations, and its growing role outside the intensive care unit in elective thoracic and cardiac surgery, trauma, and non-cardiac high-risk procedures.
Investigation of Perceived Stress During COVID-19 Pandemic Self-Isolation Periods
Authors: Ūselis Paulius , Jacikė Živilė , Šeibokaitė Audronė , Griciūtė Aušra
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: The study purpose was to analyze possible health consequences of self-isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to evaluate diagnostics methods. Specifically, we analyzed perceived stress of self-isolation with the aim of evaluating the suitability of psychological and laboratory diagnostics methods for routine clinical practice. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following objectives were formulated: to compare the results of psychological and laboratory diagnostic methods between case and control groups; and to evaluate associations between psychological and laboratory stress indicators separately in case and control groups. Materials and Methods: The research study consisted of control and case groups of 28 volunteers each. The main selection criterion for the case group was self-isolation due to COVID-19 and a maximum period of 3 months after post-isolation, while the control group had to be of a similar age but did not have to be isolated or self-isolated. Both groups consisted of young (18–24 years) individuals. All participants had to fill out a Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire and were subjected to a laboratory test for stress indicators (alpha-amylase, secretory cortisol, and immunoglobulin A) from a saliva sample. Results: A comparison of the laboratory stress indicator scores for both study groups revealed statistically significant differences between the clinical subgroups, i.e., the distributions of the control and case groups were significantly different within the affected case group and control. The values obtained for study groups and PSS scores showed no discrepancies between the two investigation methods, i.e., PSS assessment and laboratory stress indicators results. The PSS values between the clinical groups were significantly different from each other, suggesting that the laboratory stress indicator scores differed but were consistent or complementary to the PSS results. A separate comparison of age and stress indicator levels in the control group revealed a correlation between age and PSS scores, indicating that younger individuals were more prone to subjective perception of moderate stress. Conclusions: The results showed that COVID-19 self-isolation during quarantine affected people’s psychological health. Using psychological examination and laboratory stress indicators, the results of the case group reliably differed from the results of the control group, allowing us to conclude that self-isolation more often caused moderate chronic stress, with or without decompensation. Besides the main study objective, we observed that laboratory stress biomarkers may be acceptable for broader clinical application during routine psychological treatment. The clinical application of laboratory stress biomarkers had been validated previously by another method, i.e., psychological investigation using PSS.
Finite Element and Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Buckling Strength in Additively Manufactured Lattice Stiffened Panels
Authors: Rayhan Saiaf Bin , Rahman Md Mazedur , Sultana Jakiya , Szávai Szabolcs , Varga Gyula
Published: January 2025

The current research aimed to investigate the critical buckling load of a simply supported aerospace-grade stiffened panel made of additively manufactured cubic lattice unit cell arrays, namely simple cubic, face-centered cubic (FCC) and body-centered cubic (BCC) structures. Ansys Design Modeler was chosen to design and analyze the critical buckling load of the panel, while a popular material, Ti-6Al-4V, was used as the build material. Numerical validation on both the stiffened panel and a lattice beam structure was established from multiple resources from the literature. Finally, the panels were tested against increments of a strut diameter ranging from 0.5 mm to 2 mm, which corresponds to a relative density of 6% to 78%. It was found that considering the relative density and fixed relative density, the simple cubic lattice cell outperformed the buckling results of the FCC and BCC panels. Moreover, the relationship of the parameters was found to be non-linear. Finally, the data samples collected from numerical outcomes were utilized to train four different machine learning models, namely multi-variable linear regression, polynomial regression, the random forest regressor and the K-nearest neighbor regressor. The evaluation metrics suggest that polynomial regression provides the highest accuracy among all the tested models, with the lowest mean squared error (MSE) value of 0.0001 and a perfect R2 score. The current research opens up the discussion of using cubic lattice cells as potential structures for future stiffened panels.
Sustainable Leaching of Cu, Ni, and Au from Waste Printed Circuit Boards Using Choline Chloride-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Saffaj Sara , Mantovani Diego , Kolliopoulos Georgios
Published: January 2025

Electronic waste (e-waste) is becoming a serious problem that impacts the environment due to its fast-growing volume. This rise is linked to high electronic and electrical equipment production to meet the increasing demand for high-end electronic devices. Conventional e-waste recycling approaches, including hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy, often involve substantial water and energy consumption and the generation of by-products, such as the emission of toxic gases or hazardous effluents. Within this context, solvometallurgy has emerged as a compelling alternative, whereby green non-toxic non-aqueous solvents, namely deep eutectic solvents (DESs), are used to extract and recover the metals with minimal water and harsh acid/base chemical use. The current study presents the solvo-leaching results of critical and strategic metals, i.e., copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni), and precious metals, i.e., gold (Au), from waste printed circuit boards (PCBs). Five different DESs were tested at mild conditions, namely at a temperature of 65 °C, a stirring speed of 300 rpm, a solid/liquid ratio of 10 g/L, and in the presence of iodine (I2) for 96 h. Among the different solvents tested, the one consisting of choline chloride (ChCl), acetic acid (AA), and I2 emerged as the optimal solvent, leading to the selective extraction of 99% of Cu, 92% of Ni, and 90% of Au from the PCB powder.
Unveiling Temperature Distribution and Residual Stress Evolution of Additively Manufactured Ti6Al4V Alloy: A Thermomechanical Finite Element Simulation
Authors: Fang Qihong , Zhao Pei , Li Jia , Wu Hong , Peng Jing
Published: January 2025

The performance of the selective electron beam melting (SEBM) products depends on the SEBM-induced temperature and stress. Here, the thermomechanical finite element simulations are conducted to investigate the dynamic evolution of temperature and the thermal stress of melt pool during the SEBM process of Ti6Al4V alloys under various processing parameters and scanning strategies. The results show that the melt pool undergoes three stages of preheating, melting, and remelting under the influence of adjacent scanning tracks. This complex thermal history drives significant changes in thermal stress within the melt pool. After adjusting the processing parameters, it is found that a low scanning speed and high electron beam energy result in a high temperature gradient and stress in the molten pool. Compared to the electron beam energy, the scanning speed has a more significant impact on temperature and residual stress. For the dual-electron-beam scanning strategy, the coupling thermal effect between electron beams can reduce the temperature gradient of the melt pool, thereby suppressing the formation of columnar crystals. The electron beam energy of 300 W and the scanning speed of 1.5 m/s can be selected under various scanning strategies, which are expected to suppress the formation of coarse and columnar β grains and achieve relatively low residual stress. These results contribute to providing a theoretical basis for selecting optimized process parameters and scanning strategies.
IGZO-Based Electronic Device Application: Advancements in Gas Sensor, Logic Circuit, Biosensor, Neuromorphic Device, and Photodetector Technologies
Authors: Han Youngmin , Seo Juhyung , Lee Dong Hyun , Yoo Hocheon
Published: January 2025

Metal oxide semiconductors, such as indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), have attracted significant attention from researchers in the fields of liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) for decades. This interest is driven by their high electron mobility of over ~10 cm2/V·s and excellent transmittance of more than ~80%. Amorphous IGZO (a-IGZO) offers additional advantages, including compatibility with various processes and flexibility making it suitable for applications in flexible and wearable devices. Furthermore, IGZO-based thin-film transistors (TFTs) exhibit high uniformity and high-speed switching behavior, resulting in low power consumption due to their low leakage current. These advantages position IGZO not only as a key material in display technologies but also as a candidate for various next-generation electronic devices. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of IGZO-based electronics, including applications in gas sensors, biosensors, and photosensors. Additionally, it emphasizes the potential of IGZO for implementing logic gates. Finally, the paper discusses IGZO-based neuromorphic devices and their promise in overcoming the limitations of the conventional von Neumann computing architecture.
In Vitro Characterization of Probiotic Strains Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus durans and Their Effect on Broiler Chicken Performance and Immune Response During Salmonella Enteritidis Infection
Authors: Shanmugasundaram Revathi , Khochamit Nalisa , Selvaraj Ramesh K. , Mortada Mohammad , Siripornadulsil Surasak , Siripornadulsil Wilailak
Published: January 2025

In vitro experiments were conducted to characterize the effect of bile salt supplementation and pH on the proliferation of Bacillus subtilis CE330 and Enterococcus durans CH33 probiotics and in vivo experiments on production performance, cecal Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) load, and the immune response of broilers. A one-way ANOVA was used to examine the effect of bile and pH on probiotic species proliferation. B. subtilis. CE330 was more tolerant to high bile concentrations and pH levels compared to E. durans CH33. Bile concentrations between 3.0 and 4.0% and a pH range between 2 and 4 decreased (p < 0.05) the proliferation of E. durans CH33. In vitro, cell-free supernatants (CFSs) of B. subtilis CE330 and E. durans CH33 at a ratio of 1:1 significantly (p < 0.05) reduced S. Enteritidis proliferation, with the highest inhibition observed at a 5:1 ratio of E. durans CH33 CFS. The cultures of B. subtilis CE330 and E. durans CH33 with 4% bile salt for 72 h had a higher proline concentration of 56.95 (13.1-fold) and 20.09 (2.5-fold) µmol/g of fresh weight, respectively. A total of 144 one-day-old male Cobb broiler chicks were randomly allocated to four treatment groups—basal diet, basal diet + challenge, probiotics (B. subtilis CE330 and E. durans CH33, 0.5 g/kg feed), and probiotics + challenge in six replications. On day 14, birds in the challenge treatment were orally challenged with 1 × 108 CFU of S. Enteritidis. A two-way ANOVA was used to examine the effects of probiotic supplementation and Salmonella challenge on dependent variables after 10 d post-Salmonella infection. Probiotic supplementation did not alter the body weight gain, the feed conversion ratio, the intestinal histomorphology (p > 0.05), or IL-1β and IL-10 gene expression (p > 0.05) at 10 dpi. However, probiotic supplementation decreased the Salmonella load by 38% compared to the control group. In conclusion, B. subtilis CE330 and E. durans CH33 reduced cecal S. Enteritidis load by 38%, thereby demonstrating their potential as probiotic interventions to enhance food safety and serve as alternatives to antibiotics in poultry. Hence, when developing multi-strain probiotic formulations, it is essential to emphasize the biocompatibility of various strains within the host system.
Molecular Identification and Drug Susceptibility of Leishmania spp. Clinical Isolates Collected from Two Regions of Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Moreno-Rodríguez Adriana , Campo-Colín Ada Sarai Martin del , Domínguez-Díaz Luis Roberto , Posadas-Jiménez Ana Livia , Matadamas-Martínez Félix , Yépez-Mulia Lilián
Published: January 2025

Pentavalent antimonials are the first line for leishmaniasis treatment, although they induce many adverse side effects and treatment failure and parasite resistance have been detected. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is the main clinical manifestation of the disease in Oaxaca State, Mexico; however, its presence is under-registered, and information about the Leishmania species that circulate and cause the disease in the region is limited. In this study, the presence of Leishmania was analyzed in 24 skin smears and 2 biopsies from lesions suspicious for leishmaniasis in inhabitants of the Tehuantepec Isthmus and Papaloapan Basin regions, Oaxaca State. By ITS1-PCR, the species of clinical isolates were identified. Moreover, the susceptibility of clinical isolates to leishmanicidal drugs was assessed. Skin smears were negative for the presence of Leishmania spp.; meanwhile, parasite amastigotes were observed in tissue biopsies; however, by ITS1-PCR, 46% of the samples were determined to be positive for the parasite. Six clinical isolates were identified as L. mexicana and had lower susceptibility to Miltefosine and Amphotericin B than the L. mexicana reference strain. No leishmanicidal activity of Glucantime was detected. Further studies with increased patient sample sizes and genotypic studies will describe in detail parasite susceptibility to reference drugs in the region.
Analyzing the Mechanism of Drilling Losses in the Zhengning Oilfield in the Ordos Basin
Authors: Gu Tuan , Yang Shugang , Xiao Yunfeng , Zhang Linpeng , Peng Fangquan , Su Xu , Fan Tao , Wang Haiyang , Zhou Desheng
Published: January 2025

Frequent wellbore loss incidents in the Mesozoic reservoirs of the Zhengning oilfield in the Ordos Basin, China, have severely impacted the development of tight oil and gas reservoirs in the basin. This study analyzed the mineral composition, microstructure, natural fracture distribution, and hydration–dispersion characteristics of rocks in the loss-prone intervals of the Mesozoic reservoirs using a laboratory experimental system. The effects of natural fractures and drilling fluid immersion on the mechanical properties and failure behavior of the rocks were investigated, and the wellbore loss mechanisms in the Mesozoic reservoirs of the Zhengning oilfield were comprehensively analyzed. Experimental results show that the reservoir rocks in the loss-prone intervals are widely distributed, with natural fractures having a width of 0.2–0.3 mm, and the clay mineral content is generally above 40%. When the relative content of illite/smectite interstratification exceeds 80%, the rock exhibits strong hydration–dispersion behavior, with a thermal recovery rate of less than 85%. Drilling fluid immersion causes the rock mass to become unstable. The presence of natural fractures and the hydration–dispersion effect significantly weaken the strength of the surrounding rock mass, leading to enhanced rock plasticity. During drilling, the expansion and interconnection of natural fractures, combined with the hydration–dispersion effect, are the main causes of wellbore loss incidents. Our study clarifies the mechanisms underlying wellbore loss incidents in the Zhengning oilfield and provides reliable experimental evidence for preventing such incidents in this area.
Simulation and Parameter Optimisation of Edge Effect in Ore Minerals Roll Crushing Process Based on Discrete Element Method
Authors: Gu Ruijie , Wu Wenzhe , Zhao Shuaifeng , Xing Hao , Qin Zhenzhong
Published: January 2025

The edge effect is caused by poor use of confinement systems, different roll aspect ratios, operating conditions and other factors, which result in uneven pressure distribution between the two crushing rolls along the roll width direction, affecting the overall roll crushing process. To reduce the edge effect, this paper investigates the simulation of the edge effect and parameter optimisation in the roll-crushing process of ore materials based on the discrete element method (DEM). Firstly, the parameters of the iron ore crushing model are experimentally calibrated, and the working process of HPGR is simulated by DEM. Secondly, the effects of roll speed, roll gap, roll diameter and roll width on edge effect and crushing effect of HPGR are analysed by the one-factor experiment. Finally, the roll pressure optimisation model is established based on the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to obtain the optimal roll pressure parameters. The results show that, with the roll speed and roll diameter increase, the edge effect also increases, the roll gap shows the opposite trend, and the roll width has less influence. The change in roll diameter has the greatest influence on the crushing effect, roll gap is second, and roll speed and roll width have less influence on the crushing effect. When the feed particles are iron ore with a particle size of 32 mm, the optimisation results show that the edge effect and crushing effect of HPGR are significantly improved when the roll speed is 1.25 rad/s, the roll gap is 38 mm, the roll diameter is 2000 mm and the roll width is 742 mm.
Investigation of the Possibility of Obtaining High-Purity Carbon Materials and Recovering Valuable Metals from Shungite Rocks
Authors: Aleksandrova Tatiana , Afanasova Anastasia , Nikolaeva Nadezhda , Romashev Artyem , Aburova Valeriya , Prokhorova Evgeniya
Published: January 2025

The increased consumption of strategic metals has led to the necessity to search for new and non-traditional sources of mineral raw materials. All this has resulted in the necessity to develop and justify new technological solutions for the integrated recovery of strategic metals and the associated production of high-purity carbon materials. The purpose of this work was to substantiate the possibility of obtaining high-purity shungite carbon materials and metal-bearing concentrate containing valuable metals from shungite rocks using high-gradient magnetic separation and flotation with the use of an apolar collector emulsion in a frother solution. The conducted investigations using a complex of analysis methods allowed us to justify the obtaining of a metal-bearing concentrate containing iron, titanium, copper and zirconium and carbon material of high purity. By using high-gradient magnetic separation, we obtained a metal-bearing concentrate with a yield of 17.35% and a total metal content of 63.61% broken down as follows: Fe2O3 recovery of 87.66%, TiO2 recovery of 56.03%, CuO recovery of 72.52% and ZrO2 recovery of 54.42%. By using flotation, we obtained a shungite carbon concentrate with a yield of 31.41%, made of 88.15% carbon with a content and recovery of 88.09% and a sulphur content of 0.084%. The conducted studies showed the possibility of using classical beneficiation operations in the processing of non-traditional mineral raw materials to obtain commercial products.
Critical Minerals in Tibetan Geothermal Systems: Their Distribution, Flux, Reserves, and Resource Effects
Authors: Wang Di , Xue Fei , Ren Lijian , Li Xin , Wang Songtao , Er Xie Qibei
Published: January 2025

Critical mineral resources (CMRs) are essential for emerging high-tech industries and are geopolitically significant, prompting countries to pursue resource exploration and development. Tibetan geothermal systems, recognized for their CMR potential, have not yet been systematically evaluated. This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the spatial distributions, resource flux, reserves, and resource effects of CMRs, integrating and analyzing hydrochemical and discharge flow rate data. Geochemical findings reveal significant enrichment of lithium (Li), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and boron (B) in the spring waters and sediments, primarily located along the Yarlung Zangbo suture and north–south rift zones. Resource flux estimates include approximately 246 tons of Li, 54 tons of Rb, 233 tons of Cs, and 2747 tons of B per year, underscoring the mineral potential of the geothermal spring waters. Additionally, over 40,000 tons of Cs reserves are preserved in siliceous sinters in Tagejia, Gulu, and Semi. The Tibetan geothermal systems thus demonstrate considerable potential for CMRs, especially Cs, through stable discharge and widespread distribution, also serving as indicators for endogenous mineral exploration and providing potential sources for lithium in exogenous salt lakes. This study evaluates the CMR potential of the Tibetan geothermal systems, advancing CMR exploration while contributing to the future security of CMR supplies.
Chemical Conversations
Authors: Michailidu Jana , Maťátková Olga , Čejková Alena , Masák Jan
Published: January 2025

Among living organisms, higher animals primarily use a combination of vocal and non-verbal cues for communication. In other species, however, chemical signaling holds a central role. The chemical and biological activity of the molecules produced by the organisms themselves and the existence of receptors/targeting sites that allow recognition of such molecules leads to various forms of responses by the producer and recipient organisms and is a fundamental principle of such communication. Chemical language can be used to coordinate processes within one species or between species. Chemical signals are thus information for other organisms, potentially inducing modification of their behavior. Additionally, this conversation is influenced by the external environment in which organisms are found. This review presents examples of chemical communication among microorganisms, between microorganisms and plants, and between microorganisms and animals. The mechanisms and physiological importance of this communication are described. Chemical interactions can be both cooperative and antagonistic. Microbial chemical signals usually ensure the formation of the most advantageous population phenotype or the disadvantage of a competitive species in the environment. Between microorganisms and plants, we find symbiotic (e.g., in the root system) and parasitic relationships. Similarly, mutually beneficial relationships are established between microorganisms and animals (e.g., gastrointestinal tract), but microorganisms also invade and disrupt the immune and nervous systems of animals.
Selenium and Selenoproteins: Mechanisms, Health Functions, and Emerging Applications
Authors: Shahidin  , Wang Yan , Wu Yilong , Chen Taixia , Wu Xiaoyun , Yuan Wenjuan , Zhu Qiangqiang , Wang Xuanjun , Zi Chengting
Published: January 2025

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element crucial for human health that primarily functions as an immunonutrient. It is incorporated into polypeptides such as selenocysteine (SeC) and selenomethionine (SeMet), two key amino acids involved in various biochemical processes. All living organisms can convert inorganic Se into biologically active organic forms, with SeMet being the predominant form and a precursor for SeC production in humans and animals. The human genome encodes 25 selenoprotein genes, which incorporate low-molecular-weight Se compounds in the form of SeC. Organic Se, especially in the form of selenoproteins, is more efficiently absorbed than inorganic Se, driving the demand for selenoprotein-based health products, such as functional foods. Se-enriched functional foods offer a practical means of delivering bioavailable Se and are associated with enhanced antioxidant properties and various health benefits. Recent advancements in selenoprotein synthesis have improved our understanding of their roles in antioxidant defense, cancer prevention, immune regulation, anti-inflammation, hypoglycemia, cardiovascular health, Alzheimer’s disease, fertility, and COVID-19. This review highlights key selenoproteins and their biological functions, biosynthetic pathways, and emerging applications while highlighting the need for further research.
Binary Combinations of Essential Oils: Antibacterial Activity Against Staphylococcus aureus, and Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Authors: Naccari Clara , Ginestra Giovanna , Micale Nicola , Palma Ernesto , Galletta Benedetta , Costa Rosaria , Vadalà Rossella , Nostro Antonia , Cristani Mariateresa
Published: January 2025

Background: The lack of new antimicrobial drugs and increased antimicrobial resistance has focused attention on the employment of essential oils (EOs) in human and veterinary medicine. The aim of this study was to test new binary associations between known and uncommon EOs. Methods: EOs from Origanum vulgare L., Juniperus communis L., Cistus ladaniferus L., Citrus aurantium L. var. amara were tested individually and in binary combinations to study, as follows: antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and Escherichia coli; antioxidant capacity via redox-based assays (DPPH, ABTS and FRAP); and anti-inflammatory activity via the bovine serum albumin denaturation inhibition assay. Results: O. vulgare L. showed good antibacterial activity against all strains (MIC = 0.03–0.12%, v/v), followed by C. ladaniferus L., and also had the best antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Synergistic and additive effects were observed for the EO combinations O. vulgare L./C. ladaniferus L. and O. vulgare L./J. communis L. against S. aureus and MRSA, respectively. A reduction in biofilm was noted. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were also detected. Conclusions: The results suggest that EO combinations may be a promising strategy in veterinary settings for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by S. aureus, including drug-resistant and biofilm-forming strains accompanied by oxidative stress and inflammation.
Correction: Rakhshandeh et al. Protective Effect of Portulaca oleracea on Streptozotocin-Induced Type I Diabetes-Associated Reproductive System Dysfunction and Inflammation. Molecules 2022, 27, 6075
Authors: Rakhshandeh Hassan , Rajabi Khasevan Hamed , Saviano Anella , Mahdinezhad Mohammad Reza , Baradaran Rahimi Vafa , Ehtiati Sajjad , Etemad Leila , Ebrahimzadeh-bideskan Alireza , Maione Francesco , Askari Vahid Reza
Published: January 2025

In the original publication [...]