bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio-Inspired Thin-Walled Straight and Tapered Tubes with Variable Designs Subjected to Multiple Impact Angles for Building Constructions
Authors: Ma Quanjin , Yusof Nor Hazwani Mohd , Sahu Santosh Kumar , Song Yiheng , Radzuan Nabilah Afiqah Mohd , Sun Bo , Nasution Ahmad Yunus , Kumar Alagesan Praveen , Rejab Mohd Ruzaimi Mat
Published: February 2025

Thin-walled structures are extensively utilized in construction because of their lightweight nature and excellent energy absorption efficiency, especially under dynamic loads. Improving the energy-absorbing performance of thin-walled structures by inspiring natural multi-cell designs is a sufficient approach. This paper investigates the energy-absorbing characteristics of variable novel cross-section designs of thin-walled structures subjected to oblique impact loading. Straight and tapered types with seven cross-sectional designs of novel thin-walled structures were studied. The nonlinear ABAQUS/Explicit software 6.13 version was implemented to analyze the crashworthiness behaviors for the proposed variable cross-section designs under different loading angles. The crushing behaviors of the proposed thin-walled structures were examined for various wall thicknesses of 0.5 mm, 1.5 mm, and 2.5 mm and impact loading angles of 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°. It was determined that the energy-absorbing characteristics of novel thin-walled structures can be efficiently controlled by varying two geometries and seven cross-section designs. A multi-criteria decision-making method (MCDM) using a complex proportional assessment method (COPRAS) was performed to select the optimum thin-walled structures with cross-section designs. It was shown that a tapered square thin-walled structure with 2.5 mm thickness had the best crashworthiness performances with energy absorption (EA) of 11.01 kJ and specific energy absorption (SEA) of 20.32 kJ/kg under a 30° impact angle. Moreover, the results indicated that the EA of the thin-walled structure decreased with the increase in the impact loading angle. In addition, with the increase in the impact loading angle, the peak crushing force (PCF) decreased and reflected the reduction in energy absorbed at a larger angle. The MCDM method in conjunction with the COPRAS method is proposed, it provides valuable insights for safer and more resilient building construction.
Prenatal SARS-CoV-2 Infection Alters Human Milk-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Chutipongtanate Somchai , Kongsomros Supasek , Cetinkaya Hatice , Zhang Xiang , Kuhnell Damaris , Benefield Desirée , Haffey Wendy D. , Wyder Michael A. , Kwatra Gaurav , Conrey Shannon C. , Burrell Allison R. , Langevin Scott M. , Esfandiari Leyla , Newburg David S. , Greis Kenneth D. , Staat Mary A. , Morrow Ardythe L.
Published: February 2025

Human milk-derived extracellular vesicles (HMEVs) are key components in breast milk, promoting infant health and development. Maternal conditions could affect HMEV cargo; however, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on HMEVs remains unknown. This study investigated the influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy on postpartum HMEV molecules. The median duration from SARS-CoV-2 test positivity to milk collection was 3 months. After defatting and casein micelle disaggregation, HMEVs were isolated from milk samples of nine mothers with prenatal SARS-CoV-2 and six controls by sequential centrifugation, ultrafiltration, and qEV-size exclusion chromatography. The presence of HMEV was confirmed via transmission electron microscopy. Nanoparticle tracking analysis demonstrated particle diameters of <200 nm and yields of >1 × 1011 particles per mL of milk. Western immunoblots detected ALIX, CD9, and HSP70, supporting the presence of HMEVs in the isolates. Cargo from thousands of HMEVs were analyzed using a multi-omics approach, including proteomics and microRNA sequencing, and predicted that mothers with prenatal SARS-CoV-2 infection produced HMEVs with enhanced functionalities involving metabolic reprogramming, mucosal tissue development, and immunomodulation. Our findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy boosts mucosal site-specific functions of HMEVs, potentially protecting infants against viral infections. Further prospective studies should be pursued to reevaluate the short- and long-term benefits of breastfeeding in the post-COVID era.
Youth Who Control HIV on Antiretroviral Therapy Display Unique Plasma Biomarkers and Cellular Transcriptome Profiles Including DNA Repair and RNA Processing
Authors: Borkar Samiksha A. , Yin Li , Venturi Guglielmo M. , Shen Jerry , Chang Kai-Fen , Fischer Bernard M. , Nepal Upasana , Raplee Isaac D. , Sleasman John W. , Goodenow Maureen M.
Published: February 2025

Combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses detectible HIV-1 replication, but latent reservoirs and persistent immune activation contribute to residual viral-associated morbidities and potential viral reactivation. youth with HIV (YWH) virally suppressed on ART early in infection before CD4 T cell decline with fewer comorbidities compared to adults represent a critical population for identifying markers associated with viral control and predictors of viral breakthrough. This study employed a multi-omics approach to evaluate plasma biomarkers and cellular gene expression profiles in 52 participants, including 27 YWH on ART for 144 weeks and 25 youth with no infection (NI) (ages 18–24). Among the 27 YWH, 19 were virally suppressed (VS; <50 RNA copies/mL), while eight were non-suppressed (VNS; >50 RNA copies/mL). VS YWH displayed unique bioprofiles distinct from either VNS or NI. Early viral suppression mitigates inflammatory pathways and normalizes key biomarkers associated with HIV-related comorbidities. Genes upregulated in pathways linked to cellular homeostasis such as DNA repair, RNA processing, and transcription regulation may diminish viral breakthrough and maintain sustained HIV control on ART. Candidate markers and putative molecular mechanisms were identified, offering potential therapeutic targets to limit viral persistence, enhance HIV treatment strategies, and pave the way for improved clinical outcomes.
Switching to the CKD-EPI but Not Modified FAS eGFR Formula Underdetects CKD Among Adolescents and Young Adults in México
Authors: Guzmán Núñez Alethia Paulina Monserrat , Filler Guido , Barbier Olivier C. , Rojas Lima Elodia , Mendez-Hernández Pablo , Ortega-Romero Manolo , Díaz González de Ferris Maria Esther , Medeiros Mara
Published: February 2025

Background: Guidelines recommend switching the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) estimation from the CKiD-U25 to the CKD-EPI formula at age 18. We investigated how this would affect chronic kidney disease (CKD) classification. Methods: Serum creatinine was enzymatically measured in 1061 samples from 914 community-based 10–23-year-olds from Tlaxcala, Mexico, a region where urinary biomarkers demonstrated early kidney damage associated with exposure to inorganic toxins in a pediatric population. We calculated their eGFR using CKiD-U25, modified Schwartz, the first and modified Pottel full-age spectrum (FAS), and CKD-EPI formulae. Correlation analysis characterized the CKD stage stratified by age and sex. Results: At baseline, the median age was 13 (IQR: 12, 15) years, and 55% were female. Median CKiD-U25 eGFR was 96.9 (IQR: 83.3, 113.3) mL/min/1.73 m2, significantly lower than the CKD-EPI eGFR, which was 140.8 (IQR: 129.9, 149.3) mL/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.0001, Wilcoxon rank test). The mean bias was 36.99 ± 12.89 mL/min/1.73 m2. Pearson correlation was r = 0.8296 (95% confidence interval 0.0898–0.8474). There was a better correlation between the modified Schwartz (r = 0.9421 (0.9349, 0.9485)) and the Pottel FAS (r = 0.9299 (0.9212, 0.9376)) formulae. Agreement was deficient when the eGFR was >75 mL/min/1.73 m2 in younger age and female sex. Modified Schwartz identified 281 (26.4%) measurements as having CKD 2 and 3 (2+), U25 identified 401 (37.7%) measurements as having CKD 2+, FAS identified 267 (25.1%) and modified FAS identified 282 (30%) measurements as having CKD 2+, and CKD-EPI identified 51 (4.8%) measurements as having CKD 2+, respectively. Conclusions: In this population, there needed to be better agreement between the various eGFR formulae. CKD-EPI identifies substantially fewer at-risk participants as having CKD.
Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing of Scalmalloy® (Al-Mg-Sc-Zr): Thermal Management Effects on Direct Age-Hardening Response
Authors: da Silva Leandro João , Araújo Douglas Bezerra de , Reis Ruham Pablo , Palm Frank , Scotti Américo
Published: February 2025

The thermal history of a part deposited via wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) and hence its as-built properties can vary significantly depending on the thermal management applied, especially for metallurgically complex materials. Thus, this work aimed to assess the feasibility of processing thin-walled Scalmalloy® (Al-Mg-Sc-Zr) structures by WAAM while examining the effects of arc energy and heat dissipation on their response to direct age-hardening heat treatment (without solution annealing). As a complement, the geometry, porosity, and processing time of such parts were also analyzed. The walls were built via the cold metal transfer (CMT) deposition process with different arc energy levels in combination with near-immersion active cooling (NIAC) settings (as thermal management solution), as well as with natural cooling (NC), resulting overall in both low surface waviness and porosity levels. Based on hardness testing, the resultant Scalmalloy® direct-aging response (relative increase in hardness after direct age-hardening from WAAM as-built state) depended more on the arc energy per unit length of deposit applied. In contrast, the other thermal management approaches (NIAC or NC) helped in maintaining Sc in a supersaturated solid solution during deposition. Thus, Scalmalloy® strengthening was demonstrated as feasibly triggered by means of a post-WAAM direct age-hardening heat treatment solely. Additionally, in comparison with a thermally equivalent (same interpass temperature) condition based on NC, the NIAC technique allowed the achievement of such a positive result on direct-aging response with much shorter WAAM processing times, therefore improving productivity.
Effects of Beam Center Position Shifts on Data Processing in Serial Crystallography
Authors: Nam Ki Hyun
Published: February 2025

Serial crystallography (SX) enables the determination of biologically relevant structures at room temperature while minimizing radiation damage. During SX experiments, the beam center on diffraction images can shift due to X-ray beam movements or detector displacement. Consequently, the geometry file for the beam center is optimized; however, the effects of deviations from the optimal position on data processing efficiency remain unclear. This study examines how changes in the beam center influence data quality by analyzing the indexing efficiency and structure refinement of lysozyme and glucose isomerase datasets, considering shifts in the beam center parameter. The results revealed that as the beam center deviated farther from its optimal position, the indexing efficiency declined, with the extent of the effect varying significantly across indexing algorithms. XDS and MOSFLM algorithms maintained high indexing efficiencies (>90%) for shifts of ≤4 pixels (688 μm) and ≤2 pixels (344 μm), respectively, compared to data processed at the optimized beam center. Conversely, the DirAx and XGANDALF algorithms exhibited indexing efficiencies below 90% for a two-pixel shift in the beam center. These findings enhance our understanding of how beam center shifts affect SX data processing and provide valuable insights for developing effective data processing strategies.
Innovation in Metal Casting Processes: A Review of Metal Matrix Nanocomposites in Metal and Bimetal Castings
Authors: Subhani Tayyab , Ramadan Mohamed , Fathy Naglaa , Khaliq Abdel , Halim K. S. Abdel
Published: February 2025

The arrival of nanotechnology in the field of metal castings is considered a promising approach to significantly improve the quality, performance and lifetime of castings. A better understanding of the implementation of nanotechnology in the metal casting process and its dynamics is essential for the successful production of metal matrix nanocomposite castings. This review focuses on past and present techniques for metal matrix nanocomposite castings to facilitate future fabrication processes and improve the performance of casting products. The advantages, limitations, difficulties and optimal processing conditions of nanocomposite castings are presented and thoroughly discussed. Both types of metal matrix nanocomposites (i.e., ferrous and nonferrous metallic matrices, are discussed in the present review), as well as nanocomposites in the working surface layer and interlayer of bimetallic materials. Significant improvements in the surface microstructure and shear strength of bimetallic bearings are achieved using nanoparticles as additions to the surface working layer and interlayer areas. Special emphasis is given to the factors affecting these fabrication processes in achieving high-quality products. The dispersion of nanoparticles in the metallic matrix is another critical issue, which is discussed comprehensively. Moreover, the strengthening mechanisms that evolve due to the incorporation of nanoparticles in the metallic matrices, which deserve separate attention, are discussed. The economic and political factors that simultaneously lead to evolutionary and drastic changes in metal matrix nanocomposite castings are also considered. Finally, the present article indicates future fabrication routes and describes the development of metal matrix nanocomposite castings under the influence of nanotechnology after incorporating the novel casting opportunities presented by nanotechnology.
Recent Developments in Transmission Electron Microscopy for Crystallographic Characterization of Strained Semiconductor Heterostructures
Authors: Gong Tao , Chen Longqing , Wang Xiaoyi , Qiu Yang , Liu Huiyun , Yang Zixing , Walther Thomas
Published: February 2025

With recent electronic devices relying on sub-nanometer features, the understanding of device performance requires a direct probe of the atomic arrangement. As an ideal tool for crystallographic analysis at the nanoscale, aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (ACTEM) has the ability to provide atomically resolved images and core-loss spectra. Herein, the techniques for crystallographic structure analysis based on ACTEM are reviewed and discussed, particularly ACTEM techniques for measuring strain, dislocations, phase transition, and lattice in-plane misorientation. In situ observations of crystal evolution during the application of external forces or electrical fields are also introduced, so a correlation between crystal quality and device performance can be obtained.
Design and Control Strategies of Multirotors with Horizontal Thrust-Vectored Propellers
Authors: Martinez Ricardo Rosales , Paul Hannibal , Shimonomura Kazuhiro
Published: February 2025

With the growing adoption of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in industrial and commercial sectors, the limitations of traditional under-actuated multirotors are becoming increasingly evident, particularly in manipulation tasks. Limited control over the thrust vector direction of the propellers, coupled with its interdependence on the vehicle’s roll, pitch, and yaw moments, significantly restricts manipulation capabilities. To address these challenges, this work presents a control framework for multirotor UAVs equipped with thrust-vectoring components, enabling enhanced control over the direction of lateral forces. The framework supports various actuator configurations by integrating fixed vertical propellers with horizontally mounted thrust-vectoring components. It is capable of handling horizontal thruster setups that generate forces in all directions along the x- and y-axes. Alternatively, it accommodates constrained configurations where the vehicle is limited to generating force in a single direction along either the x- or y-axis. The supported UAVs can follow transmitter commands, setpoints, or predefined trajectories, while the flight controller autonomously manages the propellers and thrusters to achieve the desired motion. Moment evaluations were conducted to assess the torsional capabilities of the vehicles by varying the angles of the thrusters during torsional tasks. The results demonstrate comparable torsional magnitudes to previously studied thrust-vectoring UAVs. Simulations with vehicles of varying inertia and dimensions showed that, even with large horizontal thruster offsets, the vehicles followed desired trajectories while maintaining stable horizontal orientation and smaller attitude variations compared to normal flight. Similar performance was observed with positive and negative vertical offsets, demonstrating the framework’s tolerance for thrusters outside the horizontal plane.
OTFS Radar Waveform Design Based on Information Theory
Authors: Miao Qilong , Kuang Ling , Zhang Ge , Shao Yu
Published: February 2025

In this work, we consider the waveform design for radar systems based on orthogonal time–frequency space (OTFS). The conditional mutual information (CMI), chosen as a promising metric for assessing the radar cognitive capability, serves as the criterion for OTFS waveform design. After formulating the OTFS waveform design problem based on maximizing CMI, we propose an equivalent waveform processing approach by minimizing the autocorrelation sidelobes and cross-correlations (ASaCC) of the OTFS transmitting matrix. Simulation results demonstrate that superior performance in target information extraction is achieved by the optimized OTFS waveforms compared to random waveforms.
Breaking Barriers to Unleash STEM Futures by Empowering Girls Through Mentorship in Summer Camps
Authors: Martín-Peciña María , Quesada Antonio , Abril Ana M. , Romero-Ariza Marta
Published: February 2025

The underrepresentation of women in science fields limits their potential in solving current global challenges. As a lighthouse to close this gender gap, role models are crucial for girls to build their science identity, even in their early years. Therefore, we describe a combined mentoring intervention taking place during scientific summer camps for girls. In these camps, young girls lived for a week undertaking an intensive program conducting cutting-edge research and in close contact with female mentors and other girls within a community of practice. They were mentored in small groups, but there were also chances for participating in talks, entrepreneurial workshops, and social activities all together. On the last day, the girls presented their research results, sharing their perceptions about the camp and their concerns regarding the role of women in science in an open-door final conference. By means of a mixed-method assessment conceptualization, the aim of this study is to provide evidence supporting the impact of non-formal education settings to effectively enhance girls’ science potential by using inspiring female scientists acting as mentors and role models. Furthermore, the study intends to shed light on what were regarded to be the key factors of the camp design that had such an impact on the participating girls. In particular, the findings demonstrate that the participating girls improved their attitudes towards STEM after the camp, highlighting how role models, in several roles, were key to empowering them in science through the building of a gender-responsive and inclusive community. Finally, the paper also discusses the key elements of the intervention based on the lessons learned and its transferability to different educational contexts in order to expand the beneficial effects of a gender-sensitive science education to build an inclusive future.
Importance Attributed to Music Education by Hong Kong Parents and Prediction of Children’s Music Participation
Authors: Pan Yingying , Bautista Alfredo , Kong Siu-hang
Published: February 2025

Parents play a crucial role in facilitating their children’s participation in extracurricular music activities. Guided by the framework of concerted cultivation, this survey study conducted with Hong Kong parents investigates (1) the types of extracurricular music activities in which their three- to eight-year-old children participate, (2) the importance parents attribute to music education and its correlation with key demographic factors, and (3) the predictive relationship between the importance parents attribute to music education and their children’s music participation. A self-designed survey was completed by 430 parents. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and binary logistic regression were conducted. Children’s participation rate in extracurricular music activities was found to be low. While younger children tended to engage in collaborative and unstructured activities, older children participated more in individual and guided activities. The importance attributed by parents to music education was relatively high and correlated with their background and family demographics. The higher the parents rated the importance of music education, the more likely they were to have signed up or intended to sign up their children for music activities. This study offers insights into children’s extracurricular music participation, highlights parental roles in children’s music education, and underscores the necessity of educating parents about the importance of music education.
5G-TSN Integrated Prototype for Reliable Industrial Communication Using Frame Replication and Elimination for Reliability
Authors: Kehl Pierre E. , Ansari Junaid , Lovrin Mikael , Mohanram Praveen , Liu Chi-Chuan (Eric) , Yeh Jun-Lin (Larry) , Schmitt Robert H.
Published: February 2025

The stringent requirements of industrial communication, especially high reliability and real-time response, are regarded as the main bottlenecks for the widespread adoption of wireless technologies in industrial applications. The integration of 5G and Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) protocols offers convergence of both wireless and various wired communication technologies for industrial applications. In this article, we describe our 5G and TSN integrated prototype, which achieves high reliability based on the IEEE 802.1CB Frame Replication and Elimination for Reliability (FRER) scheme. Different 5G systems have been used in various combinations to empirically study the benefits of FRER for 5G communication in real industrial environments. We evaluate the performance of our prototype and validate it for an industrial use case on Smart Sensors for Milling Processes, requiring a latency below 10 ms for 99.99% of the packets sent, which has been achieved in the measurements using FRER. This use case and the high requirements towards latency and reliability demonstrate the benefits of 5G integration with FRER for industrial production.
Optimization of Cross-Bridge Kelvin Resistor (CBKR) Layout for the Precise Contact Resistance Measurement of TiSi2/n+ Si
Authors: Noh Hyungju , Chae Changmin , Jeon Yelim , Oh Dongseok , Kim Sangwan
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of cross-bridge Kelvin resistor (CBKR) layout designs on specific contact resistivity (ρc) measurements between TiSi2 and n+ Si. The theoretical ρc is calculated as a function of silicon doping concentration (NSi) and Schottky barrier height (ϕb) to evaluate the measurement value. Various CBKR patterns are fabricated and measured with different contact hole areas (Ac) and aligned margins (δ) to evaluate measurement accuracy. The results show that CBKR with a narrow active width (W) can more accurately measure the ρc compared to the conventional layout mainly attributed to the current path confinement. In addition, if the contact hole length (L) is smaller than the transfer length (LT), the entire Ac contributes to the voltage drop of contact resistance (Rc), resulting in improved measurement accuracy. In contrast, if δ is increased, the measurement error decreases due to current dispersion near the recessed TiSi2 region, which is different from conventional CBKR layouts. Consequently, the measured ρc with an optimized layout shows a close value to the theoretical ρc.
Research on a Control Strategy for a Split-Phase Three-Level LCL-Type Grid-Connected Inverter
Authors: Zhou Xinhui , Cai Huafeng , Lin Xinchun
Published: February 2025

A split-phase three-level LCL grid-connected inverter is proposed to match the single-phase three-wire split-phase output power grids in countries such as those in North America. However, influencing factors such as grid impedance and background harmonics in non-ideal power grids may lead to distortion and even instability of the output waveform of the grid-connected inverter. To address the aforementioned issues, through a stability analysis of the dual-feedback system of inverter-side current control and capacitor current active damping, a composite active damping strategy is put forward to enhance the stability of the LCL grid-connected inverter. This composite active damping strategy encompasses a standardized method for designing the robust capacitor current feedback coefficient and a method of embedding leading-phase correction to improve system stability. The strategy proposed in this paper is more streamlined and standardized when calculating the capacitor current feedback coefficient, enabling the system to operate stably under a wide range of grid impedance variations. Moreover, an analysis of the mechanism by which grid background harmonics affect the grid-connected current waveform is conducted, and the PR controller is replaced with a multiple proportional-resonant (MPR) controller. The MPR controller can achieve infinite gain at specific harmonics, thereby suppressing specific low-order harmonics in the grid and reducing the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the grid-connected current. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is verified on a 12 kW experimental platform. The results indicate that, compared with the inverter-side current feedback active damping (ICFAD) method, the composite active damping strategy proposed in this paper exhibits stronger robustness, and the added MPR controller significantly enhances the anti-interference ability of the grid-connected inverter against grid harmonics.
A Temperature-Independent Gate-Oxide Degradation Monitoring Method for Silicon Carbide Metal Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors Based on Turn-Off Ringing
Authors: Zhou Xinghao , Sun Pengju , Li Kaiwei , Liu Qingsong , Chen Lan , Wang Bo
Published: February 2025

Gate-oxide degradation in silicon carbide (SiC) metal oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) is a significant concern. Consequently, several methods have been developed to monitor the aging degree. In this article, a temperature-independent method for gate-oxide degradation monitoring is proposed by measuring the minimum turn-off circuit parasitic inductor voltage vcir_min at a specific gate resistor and voltage. The temperature sensitivity of vcir_min is analyzed based on a derived model. Adjustment of the turn-off gate voltage and resistance is proposed to mitigate the impact of temperature on vcir_min. The devices under test are aged by high-temperature gate bias (HTGB) experiments and are tested in double-pulse tests (DPT). A 32 V bias for 42 h and 25–150 °C temperature results in changes of 6.55% and 0.103% in vcir_min, respectively. The experimental results show that the proposed method is effective in maintaining temperature independence. Additionally, the effects of bus voltage, load current, and bond wire failure on vcir_min are also tested and analyzed. The proposed method provides a valuable tool for accurately monitoring SiC MOSFET gate-oxide degradation in scenarios characterized by significant temperature fluctuations.
A Rule-Based Stock Trading Recommendation System Using Sentiment Analysis and Technical Indicators
Authors: Kim Yuri , Yoo Sujin , Park Seongbin
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a stock trading recommendation system that integrates news sentiment analysis with the relative strength index (RSI) to provide informed buy–sell decisions. The system uses a rule-based natural language processing (NLP) approach to analyze recent news articles and combines the resulting sentiment scores with the RSI, which tracks stock momentum. By evaluating seven days of news data, the system assigns a sentiment score (1 to 100) that reflects market sentiment, while the RSI identifies overbought or oversold conditions. This combined approach allows traders to make data-driven buy, sell, or hold decisions in real time. In this study, we conducted a comparative study with benchmark indices across various subsets of stocks to evaluate their relative performance, highlighting our system’s competitive edge in terms of accuracy, profitability, and lightweight design with low computational cost. The results showed the system’s adaptability across different market segments and its potential to enhance trading outcomes. By integrating real-time sentiment analysis with technical indicators, the system offers a practical and actionable investment strategy.
Modeling and Adaptive Resource Management for Voice-Based Speaker and Emotion Identification Through Smart Badges
Authors: Liu Xiaowei , Doboli Alex
Published: February 2025

The number of new applications addressing human activities in social settings, like groups and organizations, is on the rise. Devising an effective data collection infrastructure is critical for such applications. This paper describes a computational model and the related algorithms to design a sociometric badge for efficient data collection in applications in which speaker and emotion recognition and tracking are essential. A new computational model describes the characteristics of verbal and emotional interactions in a group. To address the requirements of changing group interactions, a self-adaptation module optimizes badge resource management to minimize data loss and modeling errors. Experiments considered scenarios for slow and regular shifts in group interactions. The proposed self-adaptation method reduces data loss by 51% to 90%, modeling errors by 28% to 44%, and computing load by 38% to 52%.
A Method for the Predictive Maintenance Resource Scheduling of Aircraft Based on Heterogeneous Hypergraphs
Authors: Kang Long , He Muhua , Zhou Jiahui , Hou Yiran , Xu Bo , Liu Haifeng
Published: February 2025

The resource scheduling optimization problem in predictive maintenance is a complex operational research challenge involving reasoning about stochastic failure models and the dynamic allocation of repair resources. In recent years, resource scheduling methods based on deep learning have been increasingly applied in this field, demonstrating promising performances. Among these, resource scheduling algorithms based on heterogeneous graphs have shown exceptional results in multi-objective optimization tasks. However, conventional graph neural networks primarily operate on binary relational graphs, which struggle to effectively utilize data in multi-relational settings, thereby limiting the scheduler’s performance. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a heterogeneous hypergraph-based resource scheduling algorithm for aircraft maintenance tasks to tackle the challenges of higher-order and many-to-many relationship processing inherent in traditional graph neural networks. Specifically, the proposed algorithm defines aircraft nodes and maintenance personnel nodes while introducing decision nodes and state nodes to construct hyperedges. It employs hypergraph convolution with a multi-head attention mechanism to learn the long-term value of decisions, followed by policy selection based on a Markov decision process. This method offers a lightweight, non-parametric dynamic scheduling solution capable of robust learning in highly stochastic environments. Comparative experiments conducted on three datasets of varying scales demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms both heuristic algorithms and existing deep learning methods in terms of its optimization performance on M1 and M2 metrics. Furthermore, it surpasses resource scheduling algorithms based on heterogeneous graph neural networks across multiple metrics.
Automated Neural Network-Based Optimization for Enhancing Dynamic Range in Active Filter Design
Authors: Daylak Funda , Ozoguz Serdar
Published: February 2025

This study presents an automated circuit design approach using neural networks to optimize the dynamic range (DR) of active filters, illustrated through the design of a 7th-order Chebyshev low-pass filter. Traditional design methods rely heavily on designer expertise, often resulting in time-intensive and energy-consuming processes. Two techniques are proposed: inverse modeling and forward modeling. In inverse modeling, artificial neural networks (ANNs) predict circuit parameters to meet specific performance goals. A randomly selected subset, comprising 0.05% of the 1,953,125 possible circuit configurations, was used to train and validate the model, providing an accurate representation of the entire dataset without requiring full-scale data analysis. In forward modeling, the same subset was used to train the network, which was then used to predict DR values for the remaining dataset. This approach enabled the identification of circuit parameters that resulted in optimal DR values. The results confirm the effectiveness of these techniques, with both inverse modeling and forward modeling outperforming the standard circuit design. At 160 kHz, a critical frequency for the operation of the designed filter, inverse modeling achieved a DR of 140.267 dB and forward modeling reached 136.965 dB, compared to 132.748 dB for the standard circuit designed using the traditional approach. These findings demonstrate that ANN-based methods can significantly enhance design accuracy, reduce time requirements, and improve energy efficiency in analog circuit optimization.
Towards Sustainable Perovskite Solar Cells: Lead-Free High Efficiency Designs with Tin and Germanium
Authors: Al Atem Marc , Makableh Yahia
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on the development of efficient and environmentally friendly Lead-free Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) using Tin and Germanium as absorber materials. The study was performed using SCAPS-1D simulations (version 3.11) to explore the performance of PSCs. The investigation took into consideration optimizing the electron transport layer’s (ETL) material and thickness, and TiO2, ZnO, and WO3 were investigated for this purpose. The current results show that Sn-based PSCs achieved a maximum power conversion efficiency of 23.19% with TiO2 as the ETL, while Ge-based PSCs reached a power conversion efficiency of 14.83%. Additionally, the ETL doping concentration optimization revealed that the doping concentration had little impact on the device performance. These results emphasize the potential of Sn- and Ge-based PSCs as sustainable alternatives to Lead-based technologies, offering a pathway toward safer and more efficient solar energy solutions.
Seasonal Fluctuation of Non-Structural Carbohydrates in Different Organs of Four Tree Species in Subtropical Forests
Authors: Guo Minggang , Liang Guoqin , Lu Feng , Yu Biyun , Chen Yangyang , Rodríguez-Hernández Diego Ismael , Suo Xiao , Guo Xiali
Published: February 2025

Non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) are important carbon pools in trees, and previous studies have mainly focused on the concentration of NSC in tree organs such as leaves, branches, trunk, and root, separately. However, the seasonality of the concentration of NSC in different organs among tree species in the subtropical forests is less known. In this study, we measured the seasonal dynamics of the concentration of NSC in four tree species (Nothotsuga longibracteata W. C. Cheng, Pinus kwangtungensis Chun ex Tsiang, Schima superba Gardn. et Champ, and Betula alnoides Buch.-Ham. Ex D.Don) in subtropical forests at organ levels including canopy, trunk, and root. The results showed that the concentration of NSC in conifer species was higher than that in broadleaf species. Also, the average concentration and range of the concentration of NSC were higher in the canopy than in other organs. The concentration of NSC decreased at the beginning of the growing season and increased at the end of the growing season for all species. Specifically, the concentration of NSC in tree species was significantly higher in the dry season than that in the wet season. Our results revealed the seasonal dynamics of NSC in different organs, which is beneficial to a better understanding of the growth strategies of different tree species in subtropical regions.
Impact of Microplastics on Forest Soil Properties in Pollution Hotspots in Alluvial Plains of Large Rivers (Morava, Sava, and Danube) of Serbia
Authors: Grujić Tara , Saljnikov Elmira , Mutavdžić Dragosav , Jovković Marina , Stefanović Slobodan , Miladinović Vladimir , Krnjajić Slobodan , Belanović Simić Snežana , Marjanović Žaklina
Published: February 2025

Plastic pollution has become a major environmental problem, while the products of its degradation, microplastics (MPs), appear everywhere on Earth. Data on MPs in agricultural soils have appeared lately, but a significant knowledge gap exists regarding forest soils. In Serbia, municipal waste is often dumped in forests, creating environmental problems that have not been documented. To explore the impact of waste dumping and MPs on forest fluvisols, we evaluated MPs from topsoils of three waste dumps and adequate visibly plastic non-contaminated forest sites located in alluviums of the largest rivers in Serbia. For assessing the influence of environmental factors on soil MPs, samples were taken in three forest vegetational seasons, in two years. The impact of MPs on soil structure, chemistry, and microbial respiration (MR) was examined. Undisturbed soil columns from uncontaminated sites with added known MP particles were used to estimate the dynamic of MP transfer through the topsoil. Large aggregate formation, soil coarse sand content, specific mass, porosity, and available P, but not MR were affected by contamination. Seasonal and annual environmental changes significantly influenced the behavior of MPs in forest luvisols. MPs effectively penetrated the deeper layers of soil columns within 3 months, with strong accumulation in the 0–10 cm layer.
Antiviral Effect and Metabolic Regularity of a Phenylpropanoid- Based Compound as Potential Immunopotentiator
Authors: Song Dawei , Cai Xue , Shao Qianhao , Tong Xinhui , Zhao Zhe , Liu Lei , Liu Guanglu
Published: February 2025

Spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV) is a significant pathogen that has notably hindered the advancement of cyprinid aquaculture in recent years. Infections caused by SVCV are often associated with substantial economic losses due to the absence of effective treatment options. Previous reports indicated that N-(4-methyl-2-oxo-2H-chromen-7-yl) benzenesulfonamide (N6) exhibits inhibitory effects on SVCV proliferation. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the anti-SVCV effects of N6 using healthy young carp as the experimental model. The research investigates the antiviral activity of this compound in vivo, the immune response of interferon (IFN)-related genes, its impact on the horizontal transmission of SVCV, and histopathological changes. The results indicate that N6 significantly inhibits SVCV infectivity and apoptosis in EPC cells in vitro. Furthermore, while N6 reduced horizontal transmission of SVCV in a static cohabitation challenge model, the N6-treated SVCV-infected group showed a nearly 3-fold decrease in viral load compared to the control group, it did not completely prevent transmission at established antiviral dosages. Histopathological analysis of the affected fish revealed that N6 effectively mitigated tissue damage induced by SVCV. Additionally, the up-regulation of six IFN-related genes suggests that N6 may indirectly activate IFNs to facilitate the clearance of SVCV in the kidney and spleen, as demonstrated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). These findings provide a foundation for further investigations into the mechanisms by which N6 acts against SVCV and may aid in the development of novel anti-SVCV therapeutics.
Development and Characterization of Refractance Window-Dried Curcuma longa Powder Fortified with NaFeEDTA and Folic Acid: A Study on Thermal, Morphological, and In Vitro Bio Accessibility Properties
Authors: Talukdar Preetisagar , Baruah Kamal Narayan , Barman Pankaj Jyoti , Sharma Sonu , Uppaluri Ramagopal V. S.
Published: February 2025

Curcuma longa powder was prepared by refractance window drying (RWD) and was fortified. Fortification of dried turmeric powder with folic acid and NaFeEDTA, along with its characterization, was achieved. Characterization techniques, such as FTIR, XRD, TGA, DSC, FESEM, and particle size analysis, have been considered to study the morphological, thermal, and crystalline properties of the resulting fortified turmeric. In vitro digestion studies were carried out to determine the retention of nutrients after fortification. The RW-dried and fortified turmeric powder exhibited a stable average particle size and PDI values in the range of 1500–1600 nm, for 0.25–0.29, respectively. The fortified turmeric powder exhibited enhanced crystalline properties with sharp and high intensity peaks for NaFeEDTA-fortified turmeric powder. In vitro digestion studies affirmed the bio-accessibility of the novel fortified turmeric powder at 9.77 mg/100 g and 12.74 mg/100 g for folic acid and NaFeEDTA fortification cases, respectively. Thus, the findings confirmed that there was no significant influence of fortification on the characteristics of folic acid and the NaFeEDTA-fortified RW-dried turmeric powder product.
Microcapsule Techniques to Emphasize Functional Plant Oil Quality and Their Applications in the Food Industry: A Review
Authors: Zhang Zhiran , Li Fei , Zhang Ziyan , Muhmood Atif , Li Shengxin , Liu Mengkai , Zhou Sen , Du Zubo , Ruan Chongchong , Sun Jie
Published: February 2025

Natural functional plant oils (FPOs) have been widely exploited due to their abundant biological activities. However, when exposed to oxygen, light, moisture, and heat, some limitations such as oxidative deterioration, impaired flavor, loss of nutritional value and volatile compounds, and decreased shelf life hinder the widespread application of FPOs in the food industry. Notably, the microencapsulation technique is one of the advanced technologies, which has been used to maintain the biological and physicochemical properties of FPOs. The present review provided a comprehensive overview of the nutrient compositions and functionality of FPOs, preparation techniques for microcapsules, and applications of microencapsulated FPOs (MFPOs) in the food industry. FPOs obtained from a wide range of sources were abundant in bioactive compounds and possessed disease risk mitigation and improved human health properties. The preparation methods of microencapsulation technology included physical, chemical, and physicochemical methods, which had the ability to enhance oxidative stability, functional, shelf life, and thermostability properties of FPOs. In this context, MFPOs had been applied as a fortification in sausage, meat, bakery, and flour products. Overall, this work will provide information for academic fields and industries the further exploration of food and nutriment products.
Effects of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Hydrolysate on Culture of Primary Myogenic and Adipogenic Cells Isolated from Broilers for Cultured Meat Development
Authors: Park Sang-Hun , Oh Se-Hyuk , Park Gyu-Tae , Jang So-Young , Lim Young-Ho , Oh Sung-Kyun , Lee Tae-Hyung , Lee Sol-Hee , Kim Jong-Hyuk , Choi Jung-Seok
Published: February 2025

Sustainable food resources, including cell-cultured meat and edible insect proteins, are emerging as key solutions to meet future protein demands. This study evaluated the effects of black soldier fly larvae hydrolysate (BLH) on primary cells isolated from broiler leg and breast muscle tissues, as well as abdominal fat tissues. Primary cells isolated from each tissue were characterized for their myogenic and adipogenic (stromal vascular fraction, SVF) properties. Cells were cultured in a basal medium with five percent FBS supplemented with BLH at concentrations ranging from 25 to 300 µg/mL. Leg and breast muscle cells showed significantly enhanced proliferation, as indicated by MTS assay results and cell counts, in the BLH100 group compared to the FBS5 and control groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the expression of myogenic markers, including PAX7, NCAM1, MYF5, and MYOD1, was upregulated in leg muscle cells treated with BLH (p < 0.05). For SVFs, BLH50 promoted cell proliferation; however, differentiation decreased as BLH concentration increased. These findings suggest that BLH can enhance the proliferation of primary broiler cells, highlighting its potential applicability in the edible insect and cultured meat industries.
Is Common Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale agg.) Foraged for Food in Vineyards Pesticide Residues Free?
Authors: Skubic Maruša , Baša Česnik Helena , Velikonja Bolta Špela , Rusjan Denis , Šircelj Helena
Published: February 2025

Consumption of common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale agg.) can pose a risk when foraged in agroecosystems like vineyards where pesticides are frequently used. The aims of our study are to evaluate whether dandelion foraged in vineyards with different management practices (integrated pest management, organic, and biodynamic) in spring is suitable for consumption and to assess whether the contents of selected pesticide residues (PR) in integrated vineyards in dandelion vary throughout the seasons. Young dandelion leaves were sampled in spring, summer, and autumn in integrated vineyards, while in spring also in organic and biodynamic vineyards. The selected PR was analyzed using GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS, using extraction with acetonitrile. The method was validated on a dandelion matrix according to international guideline SANTE 11312/2021. Despite the use of many pesticides in integrated vineyards, only tebuconazole was detected in spring in one sample (0.005 mg/kg), while no PR was detected in dandelion from organic and biodynamic vineyards. However, at summer sampling seven different PR were detected, of which the kresoxim-methyl maximum residue limit was exceeded in five samples (0.012–0.029 mg/kg), while in autumn no PR was detected. Based on this study, it seems that dandelion leaves foraged in vineyards in spring could be unproblematic for consumption.
Milk Powder Formulations with Varying Casein to Whey Ratios and Calcium Addition: Physico-Chemical and Structural Properties and the Effect of Low-Frequency Ultrasound
Authors: Zhao Yuanyuan , Truong Tuyen , Chandrapala Jayani
Published: February 2025

This study examined the effect of low-frequency ultrasound (20 kHz, 1 and 5 min) on the physiochemical and structural properties of milk powder formulations with varying casein to whey ratios (0:100, 60:40, and 50:50) and calcium addition (30 mM). The ultrasound treatment led to changes in particle size, with an initial increase in aggregation followed by fragmentation. Calcium addition resulted in looser packing, as evidenced by a decrease in both bulk and tapped densities. DSC analysis indicated that calcium addition stabilized the protein–lactose matrix by increasing the glass transition temperature and reducing the number of thermal events. FTIR analysis revealed structural changes in proteins, with a decrease in β-sheet and β-turn and an increase in α-helix structures. These findings suggest that calcium plays a crucial role in reinforcing the structural integrity of the protein–lactose matrix, while ultrasound-induced mechanical forces lead to dynamic changes in particle size and protein conformation.