bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spinal Cord Infarction: Clinical and Neuroradiological Clues of a Rare Stroke Subtype
Authors: Zedde Marialuisa , De Falco Arturo , Zanferrari Carla , Guarino Maria , Pezzella Francesca Romana , Haggiag Shalom , Cossu Gianni , Quatrale Rocco , Micieli Giuseppe , Del Sette Massimo , Pascarella Rosario
Published: February 2025

Spinal cord infarction (SCI) of arterial origin is a rare vascular event, and its incidence is probably underestimated. There are no strong epidemiological data, and the diagnostic pathway is complex and sometimes incomplete. Furthermore, many cases may be misdiagnosed as other forms of acute and subacute myelopathies. The focus of this review is the clinical and neuroradiological issues in diagnosing SCI and their respective reliability in a clinical setting. The new proposed diagnostic criteria of SCI, although not covering all aspects, highlight the need for a comprehensive approach, including even atypical cases, as the lack of cord compression on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the only mandatory feature for diagnosis. Some MRI features are supportive of the diagnosis, particularly when the anterior spinal artery territory is involved and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is used. Several etiologies can be considered, considering traditional vascular risk factors and diseases affecting the aorta and its main branches, yet a significant proportion of cases remain without a definite etiology. The strongest predictor of SCI diagnosis is a clinical variable, i.e., a time to nadir of severe deficits < 12 h.
Associations of Digital Measurements: Analysis of Orthopantomography Versus Lateral Cephalograms for Evaluation of Facial Asymmetry
Authors: Stăncioiu Andra-Alexandra , Motofelea Alexandru Cătălin , Hușanu Anca Adriana , Vasica Lorena , Nagib Riham , Popa Adelina , Szuhanek Camelia
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to compare the associations of digital measurements obtained from orthopantomographies (OPGs) or panoramic radiographs and lateral cephalograms in evaluating facial asymmetry in patients with different skeletal classes. The sample consisted of 128 Romanian patients (67 females, 61 males) who sought orthodontic treatment. These measurements are an essential diagnostic tool for evaluating facial asymmetry in order to treat them. Methods: Lateral cephalograms and OPGs were obtained for each patient, and digital tracing was performed using the WebCeph program. Angular measurements (ANB, FMA, gonial angles) and linear measurements (ramus height, mandibular body length) were assessed on both imaging modalities. Results: Strong positive correlations were found between the gonial angle and ramus height measurements obtained from lateral cephalograms and OPGs (rs range: 0.800–0.946; p < 0.001). However, the mandibular body length showed weaker correlations between the two methods. Significant sex differences were observed, with males exhibiting larger craniofacial measurements compared to females (p < 0.05). The study population was quite young, as seen by the cohort’s median age of 21 years and interquartile range (IQR) of 16 to 29 years. Lateral Ceph: the FMA angle median value of 22° (IQR: 17–25), gonial angle median of 121° (IQR: 116–127), mandibular ramus height median value of 44 mm (IQR: 41–48 mm), and mandibular body length median value of 70 mm (IQR of 65 to 76 mm). OPG: gonial angles on the right and left sides yield medians of 121° (IQR: 116–127) and 122° (IQR: 117–127); the mandibular ramus height on the right and left sides shows medians of 44.0 mm (IQR: 40.0–47.0 mm) and 43 mm (IQR: 40–48 mm); and the mandibular body on the right side presents a median of 71 mm (IQR: 67–76 mm) and the left side has a median of 71 mm (IQR: 67–75 mm). Conclusions: The findings suggest that OPGs can be reliably used to measure the gonial angle and ramus height, providing results comparable to lateral cephalograms. However, caution should be exercised when predicting horizontal measurements from OPGs. The standardization of the OPG recording process and further research with larger sample sizes are required to establish standard panoramic norms for OPG parameters in the assessment of facial asymmetry.
Research on the Suitability Evaluation and Enhancement Path of Grassland Ecological Product Value Transformation in China Based on the Three-Dimensional Evaluation Matrix of Ecology, Economy, and Importance
Authors: Wu Yaojie , Chen Pengwei , Ma Li
Published: February 2025

Chinese grassland ecological industry is at a critical stage of mid-term adjustment and development. Accurately assessing the benefits of grassland ecological product value conversion during its mid-term development can provide a reasonable basis for adjusting the future development path of ecological product value conversion. This study uses ecological efficiency, economic efficiency, and ecological function importance indicators as the evaluation foundation for the conversion of grassland ecological product value, constructing a three-dimensional evaluation matrix of “ecology-economy-importance” suitability. Under the logical framework of “conversion efficiency-suitability evaluation-path selection”, the study investigates the suitability evaluation and improvement paths of grassland ecological product value conversion during the mid-term development phase in China. The results show that (1) from 2008 to 2022, the overall suitability of grassland ecological product value conversion in China gradually improved, particularly from 2011 to 2021, when the suitability index increased from 4.99 to 6.33. The ecological conversion efficiency remained between 0.60 and 0.67, and the economic conversion efficiency increased from 0.44 to 0.67. (2) In the spatial dimension, the suitability of grassland ecological product value conversion is generally at the second or third suitability level, with certain regional differences. Moreover, ecological and economic conversion efficiencies are spatially inconsistent. (3) In the ecological and economic conversion of grassland ecological products, the highest redundancy rate in terms of industrial land resource investment is 36.7% and 42.40%, respectively. This indicates that the insufficient suitability level of grassland ecological product value conversion may be due to excessive redundancy in industrial land resource investment. (4) The improvement path for the suitability level of grassland ecological product conversion varies across provincial regions, but within provinces, there is a small-scale clustering of similar path choices. In the future, resource and policy allocation could lead to regionally coordinated development.
Who Owns the Rural Space? The Social Contradictions Between Immigrant Entrepreneurs and Native Individuals Under China’s Rural Revitalization
Authors: Meng Wei , Wang Hengyu , Wang Shengcong
Published: February 2025

China’s rural revitalization strategy has led to the emergence of a new group of immigrant entrepreneurs. As they manage industries in villages, social contradictions with the native individuals inevitably arise. To reveal the social contradictions between immigrant entrepreneurs and native individuals, this study constructs a framework based on social conflict theory and employs a qualitative approach combining methods such as participative observation and unstructured interviews with immigrant entrepreneurs, native individuals, and village officials in Xian Village. Key findings reveal the following: (1) Disparities in lifestyle, entertainment methods, and commercial interests are the main factors contributing to the social contradictions. (2) The presentation of contradictions is summarized in three forms: the segregation of production space, the emergence of interest groups, and the outbreak of intermittent conflicts. (3) Although these contradictions seem to be part of everyday life and self-regulating, with the favoritism of local governments, the power network of the village is further eroded by immigrant entrepreneurs, and native individuals are faced with the risk of being marginalized, which seems to be a tricky phenomenon in the process of rural revitalization. These findings summarize the causes and localized presentation forms of social contradictions, enhance the applicability of social conflict theory, and supplement valuable cases from developing countries.
The Landscape Catalytic Effect of Urban Waterfronts—A Case Study of the Huangpu River in Shanghai
Authors: Yin Yuting , Ma Dongbo , Xu Xiran
Published: February 2025

Waterfronts are some of the most well known public spaces that can catalyse urban changes, yet their benefits have not been systematically explored. This study investigates the potential benefits of waterfront regeneration for the subsequent development of the wider surrounding areas and whether these benefits encompass a broader range of influences. Taking an extensive linear catalyst, the Huangpu River waterfronts in Shanghai, as an example, the catalytic effect of each waterfront section was investigated, visualised, compared and discussed within and across different sections and catalytic influential aspects. A multi-method approach driven by multi-sourced big data was used in this study, and the analysis was carried out at two scales: the waterfront area (the catalyst area) and its surroundings of influence (the areas affected by the catalyst area). The research findings suggest that the landscape catalytic effect is more pronounced in the catalyst area itself than in the surrounding areas affected by the catalyst area. Such effects also vary across waterfront sections, and the western bank of the Huangpu River was more obviously influenced than the eastern bank. The possible reasons for these differences may be related to the area’s original function, development limitations and available resources. This study also provides evidence indicating that the relationship between the catalyst and the spatial, social and economic aspects of changes it induces is one of ongoing and mutually supportive interaction. The outcomes of this study include a framework composed of 14 indicators that can disclose the depth and progress of a catalytic effect facilitated by the landscape, as well as implications for the decision-making process in the urban regeneration agenda that centres around waterfronts.
Study on the Magnetic Contact Mechanical Properties of Polyurethane-Based Magnetorheological Elastomer Sealing Materials
Authors: Zhao Xiuxu , Appiah Emmanuel , Tang Haile
Published: February 2025

In order to meet the dual requirements of hydraulic dynamic sealing to ensure a reduction in friction, this study prepared polyurethane-based magnetorheological elastomers (MREs). The compression performance of isotropic and anisotropic samples under a magnetic field was tested in samples containing carbonyl iron powder (CIP) particles with different volume contents and particle sizes. The compression performance of isotropic and anisotropic samples under the magnetic field was tested under static loading, and the friction coefficient changes in isotropic and anisotropic samples under a magnetic field were analyzed by a friction testing machine. The test results show that under static compression load, the contact stress of isotropic and anisotropic specimens increases with the increase in magnetic field strength, and the magnitude of the contact stress changes when the increase in magnetic field strength is proportional to the CIP content and CIP particle size of the specimen. The friction test results of the samples showed that an increase in magnetic field strength, CIP particle diameter, and CIP content reduces the friction coefficient of the CIP particle polyurethane-based magnetorheological elastomer samples, and the variation in the magnetic friction coefficient of anisotropic samples is greater than that of isotropic samples. This research result indicates that utilizing the magneto-mechanical properties of polyurethane-based magnetorheological elastomers can provide an innovative solution to the inherent contradiction between increasing contact stress and avoiding wear in the dynamic sealing of hydraulic systems, which can provide controllable sealing performance for hydraulic dynamic sealing components in specific application scenarios, enabling them to have a better sealing ability while reducing the friction coefficient of the sealing pair.
New Insight into a Green Process for Iron Manganese Ore Utilization: Efficient Separation of Manganese and Iron Based on Phase Reconstruction by Vanadium Recycle
Authors: Wen Jing , Liu Xinyu , Yuan Shuai , Yu Tangxia , Zhang Lan , Jiang Tao , Li Jingwei
Published: February 2025

The difficulty of separating iron and manganese is a bottleneck issue in the traditional utilization process of iron manganese ore (Fe-Mn ore). In this work, ammonium polyvanadate (APV), an intermediate product in the vanadium industry, was introduced innovatively to convert the manganese-containing phase in Fe-Mn ore into manganese pyrovanadate (Mn2V2O7) and iron and manganese were then separated efficiently through the acid leaching process. The migration of manganese, iron, and vanadium were systematically studied through XRD, SEM, and leaching experiments. Results show that during the mixed roasting process of Fe-Mn ore and APV, V2O5, the decomposition product of APV, reacts with the decomposition product of manganese minerals in Fe-Mn ore, Mn2O3, to produce the target product, acid-soluble Mn2V2O7. Iron and silicon exist in the form of Fe2O3 and SiO2 like in Fe-Mn ore. After the two-step leaching process of the sample roasted at 850 °C with n(MnO2)/n(V2O5) of 2.25, the leaching ratios of manganese, iron and vanadium are 84.57%, 0.046%, and 4.68%, respectively, achieving the efficient separation of manganese with iron and vanadium. MnCO3 obtained by carbonization and precipitation from the manganese-containing leaching solution can be used as an intermediate product of manganese metallurgy or manganese chemical industry. APV obtained by alkaline leaching and precipitation from the vanadium- and iron-containing tailing can be recycled into the roasting system as the roasting additive. The TFe content in the iron-containing tailing reaches 57.21 wt.%, which meets the requirement of iron concentrate. More than 99 wt.% of vanadium from the additive APV can be recovered and recycled back into the Fe-Mn ore utilization process by APV recycling and wastewater recycling, making the Fe-Mn ore utilization with APV roasting a green process.
Chemical Compatibility of Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 Solid-State Electrolyte Co-Sintered with Li4Ti5O12 Anode for Multilayer Ceramic Lithium Batteries
Authors: Li Jiangtao , Ma Mingsheng , Mao Ya , Zhang Faqiang , Feng Jingjing , Lyu Yingchun , Lan Tu , Li Yongxiang , Liu Zhifu
Published: February 2025

Multilayer ceramic lithium batteries (MLCBs) are regarded as a new type of oxide-based all-solid-state microbattery for integrated circuits and various wearable devices. The chemical compatibility between the solid electrolyte and electrode active materials during the high-temperature co-sintering process is crucial for determining the structural stability and cycling performance of MLCBs. This study focuses on the typical MLCB composite electrodes composed of the NASICON-type Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) solid electrolyte and the spinel-type Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) anode material. The thermal behavior, phase structure, morphological evolution, and elemental chemical states of these composite electrodes were systematically investigated over a co-sintering temperature range of 400–900 °C. The results indicate that the reactivity between LATP and LTO during co-sintering is primarily driven by the diffusion of Li from the LTO anode, leading to the formation of TiO2, Li3PO4, and LiTiOPO4. Furthermore, the co-sintered LATP-LTO multilayer composites reveal that the generation of Li3PO4 at the LATP/LTO interface facilitates their co-sintering integration at 800–900 °C, which is essential for the successful fabrication of MLCBs. These findings provide direct evidence and valuable references for the structural and performance optimization of MLCBs in the future.
Studies of the Thermophysical Properties of Selected Hot-Working Tool Steels in a Wide Temperature Range
Authors: Koniorczyk Piotr , Zieliński Mateusz , Zmywaczyk Janusz
Published: February 2025

In this work, measurements of the thermal diffusivity and thermal expansion of hot-working tool steel WLV (1.2365) were carried out in the temperature range from (−)50 °C to 500 °C. The results of these measurements were compared with those published earlier by the authors for other selected hot-working tool steels, i.e., 38HMJ (1.8509) and WCL (1.2342), in the temperature range from (−)50 °C to 500 °C and from room temperature (RT) to 1100 °C. This paper describes the procedures used to relate the thermal characteristics of the thermal diffusivity and thermal expansion obtained at low temperatures to those obtained at high temperatures. Thermal diffusivity and thermal expansion of WLV, 38HMJ and WCL steels in the temperature range from (−)50 °C to 1100 °C were used as input data for numerical simulations of heat transfer in devices made of these steels and operating in a wide temperature range. Thermophysical properties were tested using specialized NETZSCH test stands. Thermal diffusivity was studied using a LFA 467 light flash apparatus in the temperature range from (−)50 °C to 500 °C and a LFA 427 laser flash apparatus in the temperature range from RT to 1100 °C. Thermal expansion was tested using a DIL 402 Expedis dilatometer in the range from (−)50 °C to 500 °C and a DIL 402 C dilatometer in the temperature range from RT to 1100 °C. Finally, the results of tests on thermophysical properties of selected steels in the temperature range from (−)50 °C to 1100 °C were summarized.
Suitable Granular Road Base from Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Guerrero-Bustamante Oswaldo , Guillen Amparo , Moreno-Navarro Fernando , Rubio-Gámez M. C. , Sol-Sánchez Miguel
Published: February 2025

The granular bases commonly used in the construction of road infrastructure projects often require a high consumption of raw materials. The potential utilization of recycled materials, specifically Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) derived from road asphalt pavement demolition, emerges as a promising sustainable advantage for infrastructure projects, considering its potential environmental and cost benefits in other layers of the structure. In this context, this research proposes a feasibility study on the use of RAP as a granular base layer, supported by an advanced laboratory analysis that includes a range of tests simulating the in-service conditions as well as a full-scale demonstration of the material behavior under static and dynamic loads. Various design variables, such as different gradations and binder content, are considered. The results demonstrate that, despite having discontinuous gradation and smaller aggregate sizes than those commonly applied in natural base layers, the evaluated recycled materials exhibit a higher load-bearing capacity and resistance to permanent deformation than the reference materials commonly used as granular bases. Notable enhancements of up to 30% in elastic modulus, coupled with reductions of around 20% in permanent deformations, have been documented using the asphalt cement potential in the old pavement.
Experimental Study on the Compressive Behavior of Fiber-Reinforced Ceramsite Concrete
Authors: Gu Fei , Li Congqi , Wang Xin , Yang Yang , Liu Hushan
Published: February 2025

Ceramsite concrete is a kind of green building material with advantages such as low weight, heat insulation, and fire resistance. However, it has low strength, high brittleness, and the problem of aggregate floating. In this study, by adding polypropylene fibers and optimizing the preparation process, the mechanical properties of ceramsite concrete have been significantly improved, which is of great significance for promoting the application of this material in the engineering field. Through uniaxial compressive tests on 54 specimens in six groups (divided into three strength grades), the failure characteristics and stress–strain relationships of each group of specimens were analyzed, and the effects of strength grades and fiber contents on parameters such as peak stress, peak strain, ultimate strain, and elastic modulus were studied. The results show that the addition of polypropylene fibers can improve the strength of ceramsite concrete, effectively improve the deformation performance and ductility of specimens before failure, and reduce brittleness. Specifically, as the fiber content increases, the peak stress first increases and then decreases, reaching its peak at a content of 0.05%, with an increase of 8.98%. At the same time, as the fiber content increases, the peak strain and ultimate strain increase significantly, reaching their peaks at a content of 0.075%, with increases of 21.3% and 25.2%, respectively. In addition, this paper proposes a piecewise correction model for the uniaxial compressive stress–strain curve of fiber-reinforced ceramsite concrete. This model has a good fit with the full experimental curve, providing an accurate theoretical reference for the application and development of this material in engineering.
Experimental Investigation and FEM Simulation of the Tensile Behavior of Hot-Rolled Quenching and Partitioning 5Mn Steel
Authors: Kassaye Firew Tullu , Kori Tamiru Hailu , Kozłowska Aleksandra , Grajcar Adam
Published: February 2025

Medium manganese steels provide a good combination of tensile strength and ductility due to their multiphase microstructure produced during the multi-step heat treatment process. This study primarily focused on testing and analyzing the tensile properties of 0.17C-5Mn-0.76Al-0.9Si-Nb medium manganese quenching and partitioning (QP) steel using both the experimental and finite element method (FEM) in the multilinear isotropic hardening material model. The 7 mm and 12 mm thick plates exhibited a similar microstructure of tempered primary martensite, lath-type retained austenite, and secondary martensite. The experiments measured tensile strengths of 1400 MPa for 12 mm round specimens and 1325 MPa for 7 mm flat specimens, with total elongations of 15% for round specimens and 11% for flat specimens. The results indicated that the sample’s geometry has some effect on the UTS and ductility of the studied medium-Mn QP steel. However, the more important is the complex relationship between the plate thickness and yield stress and ductility, which are affected by finishing hot rolling conditions. The FEM results showed that the von Mises stresses for flat and round specimens were 1496 MPa and 1514 MPa, respectively, and were consistent with the calculated true stresses of experimental results. This shows that numerical modeling, specifically a multilinear isotropic hardening material model, properly describes the material properties beyond the yield stress and accurately predicts the plastic deformation of the investigated multiphase QP steel.
Sustainable Soil Reinforcement by Maximizing Geotechnical Performance with Rice Husk Ash in Subgrade Layers
Authors: Atef Abdelmageed , Hossain Zakaria
Published: February 2025

Soil reinforcement using rice husk ash and cement is emerging as an effective method for enhancing geotechnical performance in subgrade layers, offering an environmentally friendly, stable, durable, and cost-efficient solution. This study investigates sustainable soil reinforcement by maximizing geotechnical performance by applying RHA in subgrade layers. Experimental evaluations were conducted using California Bearing Ratio tests, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. The research focused on three subgrade configurations: upper, lower, and double subgrade layers, each treated with varying proportions of cement (2%, 4%, 6%) and RHA (2%, 4%, 6%). The findings demonstrated significant improvements in bearing capacity across all subgrade layers and combinations compared to untreated control specimens. Notably, the double subgrade layer with 6% RHA + 6% cement achieved the highest CBR value of 21.30 KPa, followed by the configuration with 2% RHA + 6% cement, which recorded a CBR value of 19.62 KPa. The specimen containing 4% RHA + 6% cement achieved a CBR value of 18.62 KPa. These results highlight the effectiveness of RHA as a sustainable material for enhancing geotechnical performance in soil enhancement applications.
The Effect of Sr, Ti, and B on the Crystallization Process and Mechanical Properties of the AlSi9Cu3(Fe) Alloy
Authors: Szymczak Tomasz , Pisarek Bogusław , Rapiejko Cezary , Władysiak Ryszard , Just Paweł , Kaczorowski Rafał , Gumienny Grzegorz , Januszewicz Bartłomiej , Piątkowski Jarosław , Sinelnikov Viktor , Pacyniak Tadeusz
Published: February 2025

This article presents studies on the effect of Sr and TiB on the crystallization process, mechanical properties, hardness, and density index of the Al-Si alloy from the EN AC-46000 group, with a narrowed chemical composition, produced by die-casting and HPDC (high-pressure die casting) technology. The research used the Box–Wilson method to design the experiment and stepwise multiple regression. To identify the optimal amount of Sr and Ti in the analyzed alloy that would simultaneously guarantee the maximization of UTS, YS, Agt, and HBW and the minimization of the DI (density index), multi-criteria optimization was performed. The modifiers were added to the liquid alloy as AlSr10 and AlTi5B1 master alloys. It was found that for 0.02–0.04 wt.% Sr and 0.05–0.08 wt.% Ti in the die castings, the highest mechanical properties, such as UTS, YS, Agt, and HBW (treated as stimulants in the experiment), can be obtained simultaneously with the lowest alloy gasification identified by DI (treated as a destimulant in the experiment). It was also confirmed that the same amount of the above-mentioned elements in HPDC castings caused an increase in UTS by approx. 14%, YS by approx. 6%, A by approx. 47%, and HBW by approx. 13%, with a relatively small increase in DI by approx. 5% compared to the unmodified alloy.
Adaptive Sliding Mode Predictive Control for Path Tracking of Wheeled Agricultural Vehicles
Authors: Liu Wenlong , Guo Rui , Zhao Jingyi
Published: February 2025

This study presents an adaptive sliding mode predictive control (ASMPC) algorithm intended to improve the control precision and robustness of path tracking for wheeled agricultural vehicles. Firstly, the kinematics state equations of the vehicle were established based on path tracking errors. Secondly, in order to design the path tracking controller by combining the precision advantage of model predictive control (MPC) algorithm with the robustness advantage of sliding mode control (SMC) algorithm, the sliding mode functions were designed and used as the output equations to establish the kinematics state space model of the vehicle. Thirdly, on the basis of linearization and discretization for the kinematics state space model, the control law of path tracking was obtained using the MPC algorithm. Finally, according to the fuzzy rules designed by the working speed of the vehicle and the curvature of the reference path, the prediction horizon and control horizon of the MPC algorithm were adaptively adjusted to further improve the control precision and robustness of the path tracking system. The results of CarSim and MATLAB/Simulink co-simulation show that the proposed ASMPC algorithm is superior to the traditional SMC algorithm and conventional MPC algorithm in terms of control precision, dynamic performance, and robustness. The results of our field test show that the root mean square (RMS) values of the lateral errors for straight path tracking and curve path tracking do not exceed 2.1 and 8.7 cm, respectively, in the speed range of 1.0 to 3.5 m/s, suitable for field working. The control precision and robustness of the proposed ASMPC algorithm can meet the working requirements of wheeled agricultural vehicles.
ExShall-CNN: An Explainable Shallow Convolutional Neural Network for Medical Image Segmentation
Authors: Khalkhali Vahid , Azim Sayed Mehedi , Dehzangi Iman
Published: February 2025

Explainability is essential for AI models, especially in clinical settings where understanding the model’s decisions is crucial. Despite their impressive performance, black-box AI models are unsuitable for clinical use if their operations cannot be explained to clinicians. While deep neural networks (DNNs) represent the forefront of model performance, their explanations are often not easily interpreted by humans. On the other hand, hand-crafted features extracted to represent different aspects of the input data and traditional machine learning models are generally more understandable. However, they often lack the effectiveness of advanced models due to human limitations in feature design. To address this, we propose ExShall-CNN, a novel explainable shallow convolutional neural network for medical image processing. This model improves upon hand-crafted features to maintain human interpretability, ensuring that its decisions are transparent and understandable. We introduce the explainable shallow convolutional neural network (ExShall-CNN), which combines the interpretability of hand-crafted features with the performance of advanced deep convolutional networks like U-Net for medical image segmentation. Built on recent advancements in machine learning, ExShall-CNN incorporates widely used kernels while ensuring transparency, making its decisions visually interpretable by physicians and clinicians. This balanced approach offers both the accuracy of deep learning models and the explainability needed for clinical applications.
Enhancing Sorghum Growth: Influence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Sorgoleone
Authors: Figueiredo de Oliveira Isabela , Ferreira Simeone Maria Lúcia , Gomes de Paula Lana Ubiraci , de Carvalho Guimarães Cristiane , Morais de Sousa Tinôco Sylvia
Published: February 2025

The low availability of phosphorus (P) in soil is one of the main constraints on crop production. Plants have developed several strategies to increase P use efficiency, including modifications in root morphology, the exudation of different compounds, and associations with microorganisms such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). This study aimed to investigate the effect of sorgoleone compound on AMF colonization and its subsequent impact on P uptake, rhizosphere microbiota, and sorghum growth. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using the sorghum genotype P9401, known for low sorgoleone production. Three doses of purified sorgoleone (20 μM, 40 μM, and 80 μM) were added to low-P soil and plants were harvested after 45 days. Treatments included inoculation with the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi Rhizophagus clarus and a negative control without inoculum. The addition of 40 and 80 μM of sorgoleone did not significantly increase mycorrhization. However, treatment with 20 μM sorgoleone combined with R. clarus inoculation significantly increased total sorghum biomass by 1.6-fold (p ≤ 0.05) compared to the non-inoculated treatment. AMF inoculation influenced only AMF colonization and the fungal microbiota, without affecting the bacterial community, whereas sorgoleone showed no effect on either. The activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases in the rhizospheric soil did not differ significantly among the treatments. Furthermore, the sorghum genes CYP71AM1, associated with sorgoleone biosynthesis, and Sb02g009880, Sb06g002560, Sb06g002540, and Sb03g029970 (related to phosphate transport induced by mycorrhiza) were significantly upregulated (p ≤ 0.05) in fine roots under these conditions. The 20 μM concentration of sorgoleone can enhance AMF colonization in sorghum and promote plant growth under low-P conditions, without significantly altering the microbiota.
First Molecular Survey and Genetic Characterization of Rickettsia spp. in Haemaphysalis hystricis Ticks Infesting Dogs in Taiwan
Authors: Shih Chien-Ming , Huang Xing-Ru , Erazo Esmeralda , Chao Li-Lian
Published: February 2025

Rickettsia infection in Haemaphysalis hystricis ticks infesting dogs was first screened in Taiwan by nested-PCR assay targeting the citrate synthase gene (gltA) of Rickettsia. A general infection rate (3.46%) was detected in a total of 1186 examined ticks, and infection rates of 3.20%, 3.6%, and 4.27% were detected in females, males, and nymphs, respectively. The monthly prevalence of Rickettsia infection was observed from March to November, and the highest infection was detected in April (6.92%) followed by a higher infection in July (5.56%), October (4.72%), September (3.57%), and May (3.54%). The prevalence of Rickettsia infection in ticks infesting stray dogs (4.15%) is significantly higher than ticks infesting domestic dogs (1.11%) (chi-square test, p = 0.015). Genetic analysis based on the gltA gene sequences from 13 Taiwan specimens, compared with 13 genospecies of Rickettsia strains documented in GenBank, revealed that the genetic identities of these Taiwan strains were phylogenetically affiliated with the genospecies of the transitional group (R. felis) and the spotted fever group (R. aeschlimannii and R. raoultii) of Rickettsia. This study demonstrates the first molecular screening of Rickettsia spp. in H. hystricis ticks infesting dogs in Taiwan. The human pathogenic strain of R. aeschlimannii was first discovered in H. hystricis ticks infesting dogs. Because dogs serve as companion animals to humans, the presence of various Rickettsia species existing in H. hystricis ticks may pose a potential threat to human health in Taiwan.
Screening and Optimization of Solid-State Fermentation for Esteya vermicola, an Entomopathogenic Fungus Against the Major Forest Pest Pine Wood Nematode
Authors: Zhang Lanwen , Li Yongxia , Wen Xiaojian , Wang Xuan , Zhang Wei , Li Dongzhen , Feng Yuqian , Liu Zhenkai , Zhang Xingyao
Published: February 2025

Pine wilt disease (PWD), caused by the pine wood nematode (PWN, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus), is one of the most serious threats to pine forests worldwide. The fungus Esteya vermicola, with its lunate conidia capable of parasitizing the PWN, has shown promise as an efficient biological control agent against PWD. Solid-state fermentation (SSF) is preferred for large-scale applications in the field, as it facilitates microbial agent transport and ensures a long shelf life. However, research on enhancing the yield of lunate conidia from E. vermicola through SSF is limited. In this study, we initially achieved a yield of 3.04 × 108 conidia/g using a basic SSF medium composed of wheat bran, corn flour, and soybean flour. To improve this yield, we employed an orthogonal experimental design (OED) to identify the optimal medium composition, which required a wheat bran-to-corn flour-to soybean flour ratio of 7:2:1 (w/w/w), a substrate-to-water ratio of 1:0.7 (w/v), and the addition of 1.33% (w/w) glucose, 1.33% (w/w) yeast extract fermentation, and 1.33% (w/w) MgSO4. Using the response surface methodology (RSM), we calculated the optimal fermentation conditions, which were 24.9 °C, 78.0% relative humidity (RH), an inoculation volume of 16.3% (v/w), and a fermentation time of 7.1 days. Under these conditions, the yield of lunate conidia reached a maximum of 16.58 × 108 conidia/g, a 4.45-fold increase after optimization. This study improved the yield of E. vermicola lunate conidia and provides insights for developing biopesticides based on this strain.
A Closer Look at the Potential Mechanisms of Action of Protective Agents Used in the Drying of Microorganisms: A Review
Authors: Van Engeland Charlotte , Haut Benoît , Debaste Frédéric
Published: February 2025

Yeast, bacteria and sourdough are widely used in our daily lives, yet their drying and storage remains a significant challenge. A variety of techniques are used to improve the resistance of cells to thermal, dehydration, oxidative and osmotic stresses, which can occur at different stages of the process. The addition of protective agents prior to drying is a commonly used method, but the mechanisms that may lead to a change in viability following the addition of these agents, or more generally, the interaction between a protective agent and the drying process, are not yet fully understood. This review outlines seven main potential mechanisms, as highlighted in the literature, which can lead to internal or external modifications of the cells. The mechanisms in question are change of membrane fluidity, accumulation of compounds for osmoregulation, prior osmotic dehydration, prevention of oxidation, coating or encapsulation, enhancement in thermal resistance and change in drying kinetics. A comprehensive explanation of these mechanisms is provided. This review also highlights the connection between the mechanisms and the influence of the stresses occurring during drying and storage, which depend on the drying technique used and the operating conditions, the strains and the protective agents involved, on the importance of the different protection mechanisms. By gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of action of protective agents, strategies to improve the quality of the microorganisms obtained after drying can be developed. One such strategy would be to combine several agents to achieve a synergistic effect.
Algae and Cyanobacteria Fatty Acids and Bioactive Metabolites: Natural Antifungal Alternative Against Fusarium sp.
Authors: López-Arellanes Miguel E. , López-Pacheco Lizbeth Denisse , Elizondo-Luevano Joel H. , González-Meza Georgia María
Published: February 2025

Fungal diseases caused by Fusarium spp. significantly threaten food security and sustainable agriculture. One of the traditional strategies for eradicating Fusarium spp. incidents is the use of chemical and synthetic fungicides. The excessive use of these products generates environmental damage and has negative effects on crop yield. It puts plants in stressful conditions, kills the natural soil microbiome, and makes phytopathogenic fungi resistant. Finally, it also causes health problems in farmers. This drives the search for and selection of natural alternatives, such as bio-fungicides. Among natural products, algae and cyanobacteria are promising sources of antifungal bio-compounds. These organisms can synthesize different bioactive molecules, such as fatty acids, phenolic acids, and some volatile organic compounds with antifungal activity, which can damage the fungal cell membrane that surrounds the hyphae and spores, either by solubilization or by making them porous and disrupted. Research in this area is still developing, but significant progress has been made in the identification of the compounds with potential for controlling this important pathogen. Therefore, this review focuses on the knowledge about the mechanisms of action of the fatty acids from macroalgae, microalgae, and cyanobacteria as principal biomolecules with antifungal activity, as well as on the benefits and challenges of applying these natural metabolites against Fusarium spp. to achieve sustainable agriculture.
Development of Subcritical Water Extraction for Areca Alkaloids and Its Influence on the Structure of Areca Nut Husk
Authors: Zhao Hongliang , Yang Jinghao , Zeng Jun , Zhou Bosheng , Yang Min , Yang Xiaohong , Sun Ranfeng
Published: February 2025

The optimal process parameters of subcritical water extraction (SWE) for areca alkaloids in areca nut (AN) husk were described: extraction temperature of 110.87 °C, liquid-to-solid ratio of 18.98:1 and extraction time of 50.01 min. It was found that the factors influencing the process in order of significance were extraction time > extraction temperature > liquid-to-solid ratio. Considering practical conditions, the parameters were adjusted to the extraction temperature of 110 °C, the liquid-to-solid ratio of 19:1 and the extraction time of 50 min. The measured extraction rate was 81.7%, which is close to the predicted value, indicating that the extraction process optimized by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is feasible. Meanwhile, preliminary results from XRD and FT-IR indicated that SWE had a significant influence on the structure of the AN husk, possibly by damaging some of the crystalline regions of cellulose in the AN husk or reducing the concentration of various functional groups. Overall, this study provided valuable insights in the SWE for areca alkaloids and its influence on the structure of areca nut husk, and further exploration for industrialization is still under development in our laboratory.
Algal Lectin Griffithsin Inhibits Ebola Virus Infection
Authors: Wang Leah Liu , Alfson Kendra , Eaton Brett , Mattix Marc E. , Goez-Gazi Yenny , Holbrook Michael R. , Carrion Ricardo , Xiang Shi-Hua
Published: February 2025

Algal lectin Griffithsin (GRFT) is a well-known mannose-binding protein which has broad-spectrum antiviral activity against several important infectious viruses including HIV, HCV, and SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, GRFT has been brought great attention to antiviral therapeutic development. In this report, we have tested GRFT’s activity against the lethal Ebola virus in vitro and in vivo. Our data have shown that the IC50 value is about 42 nM for inhibiting Zaire Ebola virus (EBOV) infection in vitro. The preliminary in vivo mice model using mouse-adapted EBOV has also shown a certain efficacy for delayed mortality compared to the control animals. A GRFT pull-down experiment using viral particles demonstrates that GRFT can bind to N-glycans of EBOV. Thus, it can be concluded that GRFT, through binding to viral glycans, may block Ebola virus infection and has potential for the treatment of Ebola virus disease (EVD).
Long-Term Variability in the Content of Some Metals and Metalloids in Aesculus Flowers: A Four-Year Study Using ICP OES and PCA Analysis
Authors: D’Eusanio Veronica , Frignani Elia , Marchetti Andrea , Pigani Laura , Rivi Mirco , Roncaglia Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the content of some metals and metalloids in the flowers of three Aesculus cultivars (AHP, Aesculus hippocastanum pure species, with white flowers; AHH, Aesculus hippocastanum hybrid species, with pink flowers; and AXC, Aesculus × carnea, with red flowers) over a four-year period (2016–2019) using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) and principal component analysis (PCA). The research focuses on assessing macro- and micro-elemental compositions, identifying variations in mineral uptake, and exploring potential correlations with soil composition. Results highlight significant differences in elemental profiles among the three species, despite similar total ash content. Potassium and phosphorus emerged as dominant macroelements, with AXC showing lower magnesium levels compared to AHP and AHH. Particularly intriguing was the detection of antimony in all cultivars, raising questions about its role and bioaccumulation pathways in floral tissues. Iron and aluminum concentrations varied significantly across species, indicating species-specific metal transport mechanisms. Nickel content showed temporal fluctuations, potentially influenced by climatic conditions and soil properties. PCA revealed distinct clustering patterns, linking elemental concentrations to specific species and years. This comprehensive analysis enhances understanding of metal absorption and distribution in ornamental plants, providing insights into their metabolic processes and potential implications for environmental monitoring and phytoremediation strategies.
Young Age and Concomitant Cannabis (THC) and Ethanol (EtOH) Exposure Enhances Rat Brain Damage Through Decreased Cerebral Mitochondrial Respiration
Authors: Quenardelle Véronique , Charles Anne-Laure , Charloux Anne , Raul Jean-Sébastien , Wolff Valérie , Geny Bernard
Published: February 2025

The reason why young people taking concomitantly cannabis (THC) and ethanol (EtOH) are more prone to stroke is underresearched. To investigate whether an underlying mechanism of increased brain damage could be an impaired mitochondrial function, this experiment determined the acute effects of EtOH, both alone and associated with THC, on mitochondrial respiration and oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide H2O2) on young (11 weeks) and middle-aged (45 weeks) brain in rats, using a high-resolution oxygraph (Oxygraph-2K, Oroboros instruments). In young brains, EtOH decreased mitochondrial respiration by −51.76 ± 2.60% (from 32.76 ± 3.82 to 17.41 ± 1.42 pmol/s/mL, p < 0.0001). In 45-week-old brains, the decrease was lesser, but still significant −36.0 ± 2.80% (from 30.73 ± 7.72 to 20.59 ± 5.48 pmol/s/mL, p < 0.0001). Concomitant THC aggravated brain mitochondrial respiration decreases at 11 weeks (−86.86 ± 1.74%, p < 0.0001) and at 45 weeks (−73.95 ± 3.69%, p < 0.0001). Such additional injury was enhanced in young brains (p < 0.01). H2O2 production was similar in both age groups (1.0 ± 0.2 versus 1.1 ± 0.08 pmol O2/s/mL) and was not modified by THC addition. In conclusion, EtOH alone significantly impairs brain mitochondrial respiration and concomitant THC further aggravates such damage, particularly in young brains. These data support the hypothesis that enhanced mitochondrial dysfunction might participate in the increased occurrence of stroke in the young and urge for better prevention against EtOH and THC addictions in adolescents.
Spatial Multiplexing Holography for Multi-User Visible Light Communication
Authors: Chen Chaoxu , Wei Yuan , Zhang Haoyu , Zhuang Ziyi , Li Ziwei , Shen Chao , Zhang Junwen , Cai Haiwen , Chi Nan , Shi Jianyang
Published: February 2025

Given the burgeoning necessity for high-speed, efficient, and secure wireless communication in 6G, visible light communication (VLC) has emerged as a fervent subject of discourse within academic and industrial circles alike. Among these considerations, it is imperative to construct scalable multi-user VLC systems, meticulously addressing pivotal issues such as power dissipation, alignment errors, and the safeguarding of user privacy. However, traditional methods like multiplexing holography (MPH) and multiple focal (MF) phase plates have shown limitations in meeting these diverse requirements. Here, we propose a novel spatial multiplexing holography (SMH) theory, a comprehensive solution that overcomes existing hurdles by enabling precise power allocation, self-designed power coverage, and secure communication through orbital angular momentum (OAM). The transformative potential of SMH is demonstrated through simulations and experimental studies, showcasing its effectiveness in power distribution within systems of VR glasses users, computer users, and smartphone users; enhancing power coverage with an 11.6 dB improvement at coverage edges; and securing data transmission, evidenced by error-free 1080P video playback under correct OAM keys. Our findings illustrate the superior performance of SMH in facilitating seamless multi-user communication, thereby establishing a new benchmark for future VLC systems in the 6G landscape.