bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Analysis of blaCTX-M1 Gene Expression Alongside iutA, csgA, and kpsMII Virulence Genes in Septicemic Escherichia coli Using Real-Time PCR
Authors: Karbalaei Mohsen , Esmailpour Mojgan , Oksenych Valentyn , Eslami Majid
Published: January 2025

Background: Sepsis is a serious worldwide health concern, and Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the main cause. This study investigates the co-expression of blaCTX-M1 and iutA, csgA, and kpsMII genes in E. coli isolated from septicemic patients, aiming to clarify the interaction between virulence and resistance. Methods: This study evaluated 100 E. coli isolates from septicemic patients. With the disc diffusion method, antibiotic susceptibility was confirmed. The use of ceftazidime–clavulanic acid allowed for the confirmation of ESBL. PCR and real-time PCR were used to detect virulence and beta-lactamase genes. The expression levels of important genes were compared between isolates in LB and blood. Results: Antibiotic resistance was common in isolates carrying blaCTX-M1, including tetracycline (93%) and erythromycin (99%). Instead, there was no resistance to fosfomycin and 3% resistance to carbapenems. Real-time PCR revealed more expression levels in blood for the virulence genes kpsMII and csgA. Pathogenicity and resistance increased with blaCTX-M1 co-expression with the kpsMII and csgA genes. Conclusions: The coexistence of ESBL and virulence genes in E. coli isolates significantly increases antibiotic resistance and infection severity. Monitoring of these genes is critical for developing effective therapeutic strategies. The key to treating these diseases is having sophisticated diagnostic tools and using antibiotics cautiously.
Biofilm Compositions and Bacterial Diversity on Kitchen Towels in Daily Use
Authors: Zhang Yao , Li Kexin , Ru Yibo , Ma Yue
Published: January 2025

Towels with complex woven structures are susceptible to biofilm formation during daily use. The composition of biofilms formed on towels used under real-life conditions has yet to be studied. Thus, we investigated the color changes, structural integrity, and biofilm development on towels used continuously for 10 weeks by 12 volunteers in specific kitchen environments. Apparent biofilms composed of bacteria and extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) were found on all used towels. The bacteria concentrations ranged from 4 to 7 log CFU/g. Proteins were the most abundant EPS, followed by polysaccharides and eDNA. A high-throughput sequencing method was employed to investigate the bacterial diversity on the towels. The predominant bacterial genera differed from towel to towel. Kocuria, Rothia, Psychrobacter, Enhydrobacter, and Pseudomonas are genera of relatively high abundance that may originate from the human body and foods. In addition, correlations among environmental factors, major bacterial genera, physical properties, and biofilm formation of the towels were analyzed, which could provide a scientific reference for maintaining towel hygiene.
Scalable Fabrication of Light-Responsive Superhydrophobic Composite Phase Change Materials via Bionic-Engineered Wood for Solar–Thermal Energy Management
Authors: Meng Yang , Zhang Jiangyu , Li Yuchan , Jiang Hui , Xie Delong
Published: January 2025

The growing demand for sustainable energy storage solutions has underscored the importance of phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy management. However, traditional PCMs are always inherently constrained by issues such as leakage, poor thermal conductivity, and lack of solar energy conversion capacity. Herein, a multifunctional composite phase change material (CPCM) is developed using a balsa-derived morphology genetic scaffold, engineered via bionic catechol surface chemistry. The scaffold undergoes selective delignification, followed by a simple, room-temperature polydopamine (PDA) modification to deposit Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and graft octadecyl chains, resulting in a superhydrophobic hierarchical structure. This superhydrophobicity plays a critical role in preventing PCM leakage and enhancing environmental adaptability, ensuring long-term stability under diverse conditions. Encapsulating stearic acid (SA) as the PCM, the CPCM exhibits exceptional stability, achieving a high latent heat of 175.5 J g−1 and an energy storage efficiency of 87.7%. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the CPCM is significantly enhanced along the longitudinal direction, a 2.1-fold increase compared to pure SA, due to the integration of Ag NPs and the unidirectional wood architecture. This synergy also drives efficient photothermal conversion via π-π stacking interactions of PDA and the surface plasmon effects of Ag NPs, enabling rapid solar-to-thermal energy conversion. Moreover, the CPCM demonstrates remarkable water resistance, self-cleaning ability, and long-term thermal reliability, retaining its functionality through 100 heating–cooling cycles. This multifunctional balsa-based CPCM represents a breakthrough in integrating phase-change behavior with advanced environmental adaptability, offering promising applications in solar–thermal energy systems.
Behavior at Air/Water Interface and Oxidative Stability of Vegetable Oils Analyzed Through Langmuir Monolayer Technique
Authors: Kamińska Wiktoria , Rzyska-Szczupak Katarzyna , Przybylska-Balcerek Anna , Stuper-Szablewska Kinga , Dembska Anna , Neunert Grażyna
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the oxidative stability and surface properties of cold-pressed vegetable oils using the Langmuir monolayer technique. Six oils—milk thistle, evening primrose, flaxseed, camelina sativa, black cumin, and pumpkin seed—were analyzed to investigate their molecular organization and behavior at the air/water interface, particularly after undergoing oxidation. The results showed that oils rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as flaxseed and evening primrose oils, formed monolayers with larger molecular areas and lower stability, which led to faster oxidative degradation, especially under thermal conditions. In contrast, pumpkin seed oil, with a higher content of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), formed more condensed and stable monolayers, enhancing its resistance to oxidation. Black cumin oil, with a balanced profile of SFAs and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), demonstrated similar stability. The Langmuir technique facilitated a detailed analysis of monolayer phase transitions: PUFA-rich oils transitioned more readily to less stable phases, while SFA-rich oils maintained durable, condensed structures. These findings underscore the utility of this method for assessing the oxidative stability of vegetable oils and highlight key parameters—such as surface pressure, molecular area, and elasticity modulus—that can support the optimization of oil storage and quality in the food industry and related sectors.
Organocatalytic Enantioselective Friedel–Crafts Reaction of Phenanthrenequinones and Indoles
Authors: Jin Yan , Sun Yuhong , Yu Yue , Zhao Jiao , Zheng Mingshan , Wang Liming , Jin Ying
Published: January 2025

An efficient stereoselective synthesis of 10-hydroxy-10-(1H-indol-3-yl)-9-(10H)-phenanthrene derivatives was realized through an organocatalyzed Friedel–Crafts reaction of phenanthrenequinones and indoles using a (S,S)-dimethylaminocyclohexyl-squaramide as the catalyst. Under the optimized conditions, the desired chiral products were obtained in good yields (73–90%) with moderate to high ee values (up to 97% ee). Two pairs of synthesized enantiomers were subjected to evaluation of their antiproliferative activities on four types of human cancer cell lines and one human umbilical vein endothelial cell line using the CCK-8 assay. The results indicated that stereoselectivity had obvious impacts on biological activity. (S)-4g was found to have optimal cytotoxicity against the A549 cell line and a good safety profile for human normal cells, which was better than the inhibitory activity of the positive control drug (doxorubicin).
Phenolic Compounds and Anthocyanins in Legumes and Their Impact on Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Metabolism: Comprehensive Review
Authors: Hernández-Ruiz Rocio Guadalupe , Olivares-Ochoa Xochitl Citalli , Salinas-Varela Yahatziri , Guajardo-Espinoza David , Roldán-Flores Luis Gustavo , Rivera-Leon Edgar Alfonso , López-Quintero Andres
Published: January 2025

Inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic diseases are intricately linked in a complex, self-reinforcing relationship. Inflammation can induce oxidative stress, while oxidative stress can trigger inflammatory responses, creating a cycle that contributes to the development and progression of metabolic disorders; in addition, these effects can be observed at systemic and local scales. Both processes lead to cellular damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and insulin resistance, particularly affecting adipose tissue, the liver, muscles, and the gastrointestinal tract. This results in impaired metabolic function and energy production, contributing to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Legumes are a good source of phenolic compounds and anthocyanins that exert an antioxidant effect—they directly neutralize reactive oxygen species and free radicals, reducing oxidative stress. In vivo, in vitro, and clinical trial studies demonstrate that these compounds can modulate key cellular signaling pathways involved in inflammation and metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity and regulating lipid and glucose metabolism. They also exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting proinflammatory enzymes and cytokines. Additionally, anthocyanins and phenolics may positively influence the gut microbiome, indirectly affecting metabolism and inflammation.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Single- and Multilayer Polyester Foils (Laminates) from Polylactide and Poly(Ethylene 2,5-Furandicarboxylate)
Authors: Paszkiewicz Sandra , Irska Izabela , Walkowiak Konrad , Włodarczyk Filip , Zdanowicz Magdalena , Piesowicz Elżbieta , Barczewski Mateusz
Published: January 2025

Packaging materials mainly serve the function of protecting products. The most common representative of this group is poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), which is not biodegradable and therefore, its waste might be burdensome to the environment. Thus, this work aims to develop outlines for obtaining polyester-based systems, preferably biobased ones, intended for the packaging industry and their detailed characterization. The obtained multilayer systems based on two biobased thermoplastic polyesters, i.e., poly(ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PEF) and the “double green” polylactide (PLA), were subjected to various analyses, i.e., UV-Vis spectrophotometry, microscopic evaluation, tensile tests, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), oxygen transmission rate (OTR), water absorption tests, surface analyses, and biofilm formation. The best possible arrangement was selected in terms of the packaging industry. It was proven that the elastic modulus was significantly higher for multilayer systems, whilst higher-strength parameters were observed for PLA single foils. Regardless of thickness, PLA and PEF foils exhibit similar absorption values in cold water. Moreover, PEF foils demonstrated significantly better barrier properties towards oxygen gas compared to PLA foils of the same thickness. However, a multilayer system composed of two PLA foils with a single inner PEF foil had an OTR value only slightly higher than that of the PEF foil alone. PEF was also found to be a material that exhibited a limited formation of bacterial biofilm, particularly strains of S. aureus and E. coli. All of the above findings clearly confirm the sensibility of the research topic undertaken in this work on the application of biobased thermoplastic polyesters in the packaging industry.
Recent Advances in the Tunable Optoelectromagnetic Properties of PEDOTs
Authors: Zhu Ling , Liu Qi , Zhang Yuqian , Sun Hui , Chen Shuai , Liang Lishan , An Siying , Yang Xiaomei , Zang Ling
Published: January 2025

Conducting polymers represent a crucial class of functional materials with widespread applications in diverse fields. Among these, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and its derivatives have garnered significant attention due to their distinctive optical, electronic, and magnetic properties, as well as their exceptional tunability. These properties often exhibit intricate interdependencies, manifesting as synergistic, concomitant, or antagonistic relationships. In optics, PEDOTs are renowned for their high transparency and unique photoelectric responses. From an electrical perspective, they display exceptional conductivity, thermoelectric, and piezoelectric performance, along with notable electrochemical activity and stability, enabling a wide array of electronic applications. In terms of magnetic properties, PEDOTs demonstrate outstanding electromagnetic shielding efficiency and microwave absorption capabilities. Moreover, these properties can be precisely tailored through molecular structure modifications, chemical doping, and composite formation to suit various application requirements. This review systematically examines the mechanisms underlying the optoelectromagnetic properties of PEDOTs, highlights their tunability, and outlines prospective research directions. By providing critical theoretical insights and technical references, this review aims to advance the application landscape of PEDOTs.
Formulation and Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of an Emulsion Containing a Commercial Green Tea Extract
Authors: Sykuła Anna , Janiak-Włodarczyk Izabela , Kapusta Ireneusz Tomasz
Published: January 2025

The addition of an extract to an emulsion is intended to improve its fragrance and care qualities. Green tea is a beverage known all over the world. It is tasty and has beneficial effects on human health due to its high polyphenol content. The compounds present in this variety of tea have also made it an interesting cosmetic ingredient. The polyphenols contained in green tea have antioxidant properties and can delay the ageing process in human skin. Various preparations with this ingredient can be found on the market—from creams to hair care products. Making one’s own cosmetics is also a trend. In the following study, three creams containing green tea extracts from three different manufacturers were prepared, and the total polyphenol (TP) contents, the phenolic profile of the extracts used and the antioxidant activity of these preparations were examined using two methods: DPPH• and ABTS•+ cationic radicals. The study showed that the antioxidant activity of the glycerin–water extracts measured by the selected methods was higher than that of the oil extract. Among the creams, the product with green tea extract from Firm 2 (glycerin–water extract) showed the best antioxidant properties.
Application of Response Surface Methodology for the Extraction of Phytochemicals from Upcycled Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala)
Authors: Valisakkagari Harichandana , Rupasinghe H. P. Vasantha
Published: January 2025

Kale (Brassica oleracea) is recognized as a ‘superfood’ among leafy vegetables due to its high carotenoid content and potential health benefits. This study aims to optimize ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) to enhance the recovery of carotenoids and other phytochemicals from upcycled kale using response surface methodology. The optimized extraction parameters for carotenoids, i.e., aqueous ethanol as solvent, temperature, and extraction time at a fixed solid-to-solvent ratio, were established using the central composite design. The optimized extraction method was compared with other reported extraction methods for total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging). Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS) analysis was also performed. Under the optimized UAE conditions of 100% ethanol at 57 °C for 30 min, total carotenoid content of 392 µg/g dry weight (DW) was observed, though the predicted carotenoid content was 550 µg/g DW. Under these conditions, TPC, FRAP, and DPPH were 10.5 mg gallic acid equivalents/g DW, 13.9 µmole Trolox equivalence/g DW, and DPPH radical scavenging activity as IC50 of 2.04 ± 0.31 mg/mL, respectively. The UPLC-ESI-MS analysis showed the highest total phytochemicals recovered through microwave-assisted extraction, followed by UAE, compared to other tested extraction methods. In conclusion, the established optimized UAE process significantly enhanced the yield and quality of recovered phytochemicals from upcycled kale.
Current AI Applications and Challenges in Oral Pathology
Authors: Xu Zaizhen , Lin Alice , Han Xiaoyuan
Published: January 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly through machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and natural language processing (NLP), has shown remarkable promise in image analysis and clinical documentation in oral pathology. In order to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in oral pathology, this review highlights key studies demonstrating current AI’s improvement in oral pathology, such as detecting oral diseases accurately and streamlining diagnostic processes. However, several limitations, such as data quality, generalizability, legal and ethical considerations, financial constraints, and the need for paradigm shifts in practice, are critically examined. Addressing these challenges through collaborative efforts, robust validation, and strategic integration can pave the way for AI to revolutionize oral pathology, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing the field.
On the Twistability of Partially Coherent, Schell-Model Sources
Authors: Borghi Riccardo
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the problem of assessing the twistability of a given bona fide cross-spectral density is tackled for the class of Schell-model sources, whose shift-invariant degree of coherence is represented by a real and symmetric function, denoted as μ(−r)=μ(r). By employing an abstract operatorial language, the problem of determining the highly degenerate spectrum of a twisted operator W^u is addressed through a modal analysis based on the complete knowledge of the spectrum of the sole twist operator T^u, as found by R. Simon and N. Mukunda. To this end, the evaluation of the complete tensor of the matrix elements ⟨n′,ℓ′|W^u|n,ℓ⟩ is carried out within the framework of the so-called extended Wigner distribution function, a concept recently introduced by M. VanValkenburgh. As a nontrivial application of the algorithm developed here, the analytical determination of the spectrum of saturated twisted astigmatic Gaussian Schell-model sources is also presented.
Bioinformatics and Expression Profiling of the DHHC-CRD S-Acyltransferases Reveal Their Roles in Growth and Stress Response in Woodland Strawberry (Fragaria vesca)
Authors: Gu Si , Nie Xinghua , George Amal , Tyler Kyle , Xing Yu , Qin Ling , Qi Baoxiu
Published: January 2025

Protein S-acyl transferases (PATs) are a family of enzymes that catalyze protein S-acylation, a post-translational lipid modification involved in protein membrane targeting, trafficking, stability, and protein–protein interaction. S-acylation plays important roles in plant growth, development, and stress responses. Here, we report the genome-wide analysis of the PAT family genes in the woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca), a model plant for studying the economically important Rosaceae family. In total, 21 ‘Asp-His-His-Cys’ Cys Rich Domain (DHHC-CRD)-containing sequences were identified, named here as FvPAT1-21. Expression profiling by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) showed that all the 21 FvPATs were expressed ubiquitously in seedlings and different tissues from adult plants, with notably high levels present in vegetative tissues and young fruits. Treating seedlings with hormones indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), and salicylic acid (SA) rapidly increased the transcription of most FvPATs. A complementation assay in yeast PAT mutant akr1 and auto-S-acylation assay of one FvPAT (FvPAT19) confirmed its enzyme activity where the Cys in the DHHC motif was required. An AlphaFold prediction of the DHHC and the mutated DHHC155S of FvPAT19 provided further proof of the importance of C155 in fatty acid binding. Together, our data clearly demonstrated that S-acylation catalyzed by FvPATs plays important roles in growth, development, and stress signaling in strawberries. These preliminary results could contribute to further research to understand S-acylation in strawberries and plants in general.
Drought and High Temperatures Impact the Plant–Pollinator Interactions in Fagopyrum esculentum
Authors: Defalque Corentin , Laeremans Joy , Drugmand Jonathan , Tcheutchoua Chanceline Fopessi , Meng Yu , Zhou Meiliang , Zhang Kaixuan , Quinet Muriel
Published: January 2025

As a result of climate change, temperate regions are facing the simultaneous increase in water and heat stress. These changes may affect the interactions between plants and pollinators, which will have an impact on entomophilous crop yields. Here, we investigated the consequences of high temperatures and water stress on plant growth, floral biology, flower-reward production, and insect visitation of five varieties of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), an entomophilous crop of growing interest for sustainable agriculture. The plants were grown under two temperature regimes (21 °C/19 °C and 28 °C/26 °C, day/night) and two watering regimes (well-watered and water-stressed). Our results showed that the reproductive growth was more affected by drought and high temperatures than was the vegetative growth, and that combined stress had more detrimental effects. However, the impact of drought and high temperatures was variety-dependent. Drought and/or high temperatures reduced the number of open flowers per plant, as well as the floral resources (nectar and pollen), resulting in a decrease in pollinator visits, mainly under combined stress. Although the proportion of Hymenoptera visiting the flowers decreased with high temperatures, the proportion of Diptera remained stable. The insect visiting behavior was not strongly affected by drought and high temperatures. In conclusion, the modification of floral display and floral resources induced by abiotic stresses related to climate change alters plant–pollinator interactions in common buckwheat.
I-PAttnGAN: An Image-Assisted Point Cloud Generation Method Based on Attention Generative Adversarial Network
Authors: Li Wenwen , Chen Yaxing , Fan Qianyue , Yang Meng , Guo Bin , Yu Zhiwen
Published: January 2025

The key to building a 3D point cloud map is to ensure the consistency and accuracy of point cloud data. However, the hardware limitations of LiDAR lead to a sparse and uneven distribution of point cloud data in the edge region, which brings many challenges to 3D map construction, such as low registration accuracy and high construction errors in the sparse regions. To solve these problems, this paper proposes the I-PAttnGAN network to generate point clouds with image-assisted approaches, which aims to improve the density and uniformity of sparse regions and enhance the representation ability of point cloud data in sparse edge regions for distant objects. I-PAttnGAN uses the normalized flow model to extract the point cloud attention weights dynamically and then integrates the point cloud weights into image features to learn the transformation relationship between the weighted image features and the point cloud distribution, so as to realize the adaptive generation of the point cloud density and resolution. Extensive experiments are conducted on ShapeNet and nuScenes datasets. The results show that I-PAttnGAN significantly improves the performance of generating high-quality, dense point clouds in low-density regions compared with existing methods: the Chamfer distance value is reduced by about 2 times, the Earth Mover’s distance value is increased by 1.3 times, and the F1 value is increased by about 1.5 times. In addition, the effectiveness of the newly added modules is verified by ablation experiments, and the experimental results show that these modules play a key role in the generation process. Overall, the proposed model shows significant advantages in terms of accuracy and efficiency, especially in generating complete spatial point clouds.
Bridging the Gap: Public Perception and Acceptance of Hydrogen Technology in the Philippines
Authors: Palanca Alvin Garcia , Chao Cherry Lyn V. , Yap Kristian July R. , de Leon Rizalinda L.
Published: January 2025

This study examines the effects of transitioning to hydrogen production in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Palawan Province, Philippines, focusing on technology, environment, and stakeholder impact. This research, conducted through a July 2022 survey, aimed to assess public awareness, knowledge, risk perception, and acceptance of hydrogen and its environmentally friendly variant, green hydrogen, infrastructure. Disparities were found between urban NCR and rural Palawan, with lower awareness in Palawan. Safety concerns were highlighted, with NCR respondents generally considering hydrogen production safe, while Palawan respondents had mixed feelings, particularly regarding nuclear-based hydrogen generation. This report emphasizes the potential ecological advantages of hydrogen technology but highlights potential issues concerning water usage and land impacts. It suggests targeted public awareness campaigns, robust safety assurance programs, regional pilot projects, and integrated environmental plans to facilitate the seamless integration of hydrogen technology into the Philippines’ energy portfolio. This collective effort aims to help the country meet climate action obligations, foster sustainable development, and enhance energy resilience.
The Impact of Environmental Regulation on Farmland Non-Point Source Pollution: Evidence from the Dongting Lake Plain, China
Authors: Wen Gaohui , Yang Liwen , Zhang Xinyao , Zhou Yi , Zhou Hao , Hu Xianhui
Published: January 2025

Non-point source pollution from agricultural land use is a significant contributor to environmental pollution, causing serious threats to water, air, and soil quality. Environmental regulations have been shown to have a significant negative effect on pollutant emissions. However, empirical studies examining the impact of agricultural environmental regulations on cultivated land non-point source pollution are limited. To explore the effects of environmental regulations on cultivated land non-point source pollution, this study focuses on the Dongting Lake Plain. Using statistical data from 2010 to 2020, we analyze the temporal and spatial changes in cultivated land non-point source pollution before and after the implementation of the “Zero Growth of Fertilizer and Pesticide Use Action Plan”. A spatial econometric model is used to assess the impact of environmental regulations on pollution. The results indicate that non-point source pollution in the Dongting Lake Plain shows positive global spatial autocorrelation. Locally, in 2010 and 2015, high-high clusters were dominant, while low-low clusters were less common. By 2020, low-low clusters became the main pattern of pollution. The introduction of the Zero Growth Action Plan had a negative impact on pollution intensity within the region and positive spillover effects on neighboring areas. In terms of emission structure, the plan significantly reduced nitrogen emission intensity and pesticide loss, but had a positive impact on phosphorus emissions. The level of regional economic development had a significant negative effect on pollution intensity, while urbanization had a positive effect. Agricultural technological progress showed a negative spatial spillover effect on phosphorus emissions, and regional economic development had a negative spatial spillover effect on nitrogen and pesticide emissions. This study provides evidence of the impact of environmental regulations on cultivated land non-point source pollution and offers valuable insights for the development of future pollution control policies.
Boosting Solar Sustainability: Performance Assessment of Roof-Mounted PV Arrays Under Snow Considering Various Module Interconnection Schemes
Authors: Mohammadi Ebrahim , Moschopoulos Gerry , Chen Aoxia
Published: January 2025

The transition to renewable energy sources is vital for achieving sustainability, and photovoltaic (PV) systems play a key role in this shift. However, their performance can be significantly affected in snowy conditions, where the irradiation and energy production are limited. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature by developing a MATLAB/Simulink model that considers the impacts of snow layering and removal on roof-mounted photovoltaic arrays. This study investigates various module interconnection schemes—including Series, Series-Parallel, Total-Cross-Tied, Bridge-Linked, and Honey-Comb—to determine their impact on energy efficiency in snowy environments. Based on the results, when the modules are fully covered by uniform snow, the power losses can increase from 38.9% to 93.2% for all interconnection schemes by increasing the accumulated snow from 1 cm to 5 cm. When the modules are covered by nonuniform snow and the snow removal is considered the TCT scheme has the minimum power losses and the maximum efficiency, depending on the accumulated snow pattern. For the worst scenario, the power loss is 70.1% for TCT, 71.7% for SP, 72% for HC, 72.3% for BL, and 76.7% for series interconnection. For the other scenarios, almost a similar trend can be observed where the TCT interconnection has the maximum efficiency, and the series interconnection has the minimum efficiency.
Risk Assessment of Typhoon Disaster Chain Based on Knowledge Graph and Bayesian Network
Authors: Lu Yimin , Qiao Shiting , Yao Yiran
Published: January 2025

Typhoon disasters not only trigger secondary disasters, such as rainstorms and flooding, but also bring many negative impacts on the normal operation of urban infrastructure and the safety of people’s lives and property. In order to effectively prevent the risks of typhoon disaster chain, this paper proposes a joint entity and relation extraction model based on RoBERTa-Adv-GPLinker. Then, relying on the ontology theory and methodology, we establish a knowledge graph of typhoon disaster chain. The results show that the joint extraction model based on RoBERTa-Adv-GPLinker outperforms other baseline models in all assessment indexes. Moreover, the constructed knowledge graph of typhoon disaster chain includes secondary disasters and derived disaster impacts. This can largely depict the evolution process of typhoon disaster secondary derivations. On this basis, a risk assessment model of typhoon disaster chain based on Bayesian network is established. Taking Fujian Province as an example, the risk associated with the typhoon disaster chain is assessed, verifying the effectiveness of the method. This study provides a scientific basis for enhancing government emergency response capabilities and achieving sustainable regional development.
The Implications of Artificial Intelligence for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises’ Sustainable Development in the Areas of Blockchain Technology, Supply Chain Resilience, and Closed-Loop Supply Chains
Authors: Khan Syed Abdul Rehman , Sheikh Adnan Ahmed , Shamsi Ibrahim Rashid Al , Yu Zhang
Published: January 2025

In today’s fast-paced business settings, the metaverse as a shared marketplace has gained popularity and is helping businesses to develop crucial business strategies in their pursuit of sustainable performance. However, a lack of understanding and knowledge about the effectiveness of the metaverse and its related technologies creates a barrier. Therefore, the current study fills this gap and uses organizational information-processing theory to develop the theoretical framework to examine metaverse-related technologies (artificial intelligence and blockchain technology—BCT) and their direct and indirect effects on sustainable business performance, which no other study has examined. Using purposive sampling, the sample data from 326 SMEs were gathered and analyzed using a partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). This study’s findings revealed that AI capabilities are vital for information gathering, analyzing, and decision-making in the metaverse context. BCT facilitates ensuring a transparent, visible, traceable, and immutable supply chain, which helps make it more resilient and improves the closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) system with positive technological advancements and significant effects on increasing sustainable business performance (SBP). This study’s findings help organizations understand the potential benefits of AI-enabled SMEs’ presence in the metaverse. The current investigation provides a strategy for managers to gain a competitive advantage, make the supply chain more robust, and enhance overall business performance.
The Spatial Accessibility of High-Capacity Public Transport Networks—The Premise of Sustainable Development
Authors: Dragu Vasile , Ruscă Aura , Roşca Mircea Augustin
Published: January 2025

At the present time, the increase in the level of motorization has led to levels of congestion that are difficult for the inhabitants of large cities to bear, with negative implications on quality of life. Solving the problem of congestion can no longer be achieved just by expanding and developing the networks; other solutions must be found that fit the requirements of the sustainable development of society. One of the solutions that is becoming more and more promoted today is that of increasing the degree of use of high-capacity public transport networks. For this, the network must serve a surface as large as possible of the territory, and the operating conditions must deal with transport requests with a varied structure and with different intensities in short time intervals. The paper aims to review several models of the topological accessibility of transport networks and to analyze how the Bucharest metro network serves the territory, after the last extension carried out in 2020. It is noted that only 56% of the city’s surface is currently covered by the metro network, while the city is in a continuous territorial expansion. Through the case study presented in the paper, the accessibility of some points of interest for Bucharest residents who use the metro network is also determined. At the end, there are formulated conclusions regarding the development and territorial coverage of the metro network and proposals for further developments, so that the services offered can benefit as many of Bucharest’s residents as possible.
Valorization of Energetic Materials from Obsolete Military Ammunition Through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): A Circular Economy Approach to Environmental Impact Reduction
Authors: Maranda Andrzej , Wachowski Leszek , Kukfisz Bożena , Markowska Dorota , Paszula Józef
Published: January 2025

Military ammunition and derivative materials that have reached the end of their service life are classified as hazardous waste due to the presence of explosives, necessitating proper decommissioning. Valorization of such materials through the reuse of energetic components offers a sustainable alternative, aligning with circular economy principles. This study aims to assess the environmental impact of civilian emulsion explosives (EEs) formulated with nitrocellulose powder derived from recycled ammunition, comparing these findings to traditional EEs and EEs containing standard nitrocellulose powder. The Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) was performed using the CML Baseline v3.07 methodology combined with the Ecoinvent 3.8 database, utilizing inventory data obtained from Polish sources. The results indicate that incorporating nitrocellulose powder into conventional EEs increases the overall environmental impact by 4.5%, while utilizing recycled nitrocellulose powder reduces the impact by 4.99%. This highlights the environmental benefits of recycling energetic materials for use in civilian applications, as it not only reduces hazardous waste and reliance on virgin materials but also supports the principles of the circular economy. By closing the loop on material use, this approach promotes environmental sustainability and resource efficiency, aligning with broader goals of sustainable development.
Effectiveness of Floating Covers in Mitigating Ammonia and Hydrogen Sulfide Emissions from Lab-Scale Swine Slurry Pits
Authors: Lee Jumi , Wardhani Riuh , Shin Jinho , Lee Seunghun , Lee Yangjoon , Ahn Heekwon
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the effectiveness of floating covers (FCs) in mitigating ammonia (NH3) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emissions from lab-scale swine slurry pits. Lab experiments were conducted over 125 days, comparing a treatment setup with FCs covering approximately 51.6% of the slurry surface to a control setup without covers. The results showed a significant reduction in NH3 emissions by 54.4% with FCs (p < 0.05), which was attributed to their ability to limit NH3 volatilization and promote crust formation. Although H2S emissions were also reduced by 22.7%, this decrease was not statistically significant, likely due to the complex factors influencing H2S production. These findings highlight the role of floating covers (FCs) in improving air quality within swine barns and reducing environmental pollution. By minimizing nitrogen loss as ammonia (NH3), FCs enhance nitrogen recycling into agricultural land, supporting sustainable nutrient management. This aligns with broader sustainability goals by addressing air quality concerns, reducing odors, and improving resource efficiency in livestock systems. This study offers an effective method to mitigate air pollution, providing a foundation for practical and sustainable agricultural practices.
Economic and Technical Aspects of Power Grids with Electric Vehicle Charge Stations, Sustainable Energies, and Compensators
Authors: Duong Minh Phuc , Le My-Ha , Nguyen Thang Trung , Duong Minh Quan , Doan Anh Tuan
Published: January 2025

The study applies the black kite algorithm (BKA), equilibrium optimizer (EO), and secretary bird optimization algorithm (SBOA) to optimize the placement of electric vehicle charge stations (EVCSs), wind turbine stations (WTSs), photovoltaic units (PVUs), and capacitor banks (CAPBs) in the IEEE 69-node distribution power grid. Three single objectives, including power loss minimization, grid power minimization, and total voltage deviation improvement, are considered. For each objective function, five scenarios are simulated under one single operation hour, including (1) place-only EVCSs; (2) place EVCSs and PVUs; (3) place EVCSs, PVUs, and CAPBs; (4) EVCSs and WTSs; and (5) EVCSs, PVUs, WTSs, and CAPBs. The results indicate that the EO can find the best solutions for the five scenarios. The results indicate that the EO and SBOA are the two powerful algorithms that can find optimal solutions for simulation cases. For one operating day, the total grid energy that is supplied to base loads and charge stations is 80,153.1 kWh, and many nodes at high load factors violate the lower limit of 0.95 pu. As for installing more renewable power sources, the energy that the base loads and charge stations need to supply from the grid is 39,713.4 kWh. As more capacitor banks are installed, the energy demand continues to be reduced to 39,578.9 kWh. The energy reduction is greater than 50% of the demand of all base loads and charge stations. Furthermore, the voltage can be significantly improved up to higher than 0.95 pu, and a few nodes at a few hours fall into the lowest range. Thus, the study concludes that the economic and technical aspects can be guaranteed for DPGs with additional installation of EVCSs.
Equivalence of History and Generator ϵ-Machines
Authors: Travers Nicholas F. , Crutchfield James P.
Published: January 2025

ϵ-Machines are minimal, unifilar presentations of stationary stochastic processes. They were originally defined in the history machine sense as hidden Markov models whose states are the equivalence classes of infinite pasts with the same probability distribution over futures. In analyzing synchronization though, an alternative generator definition was given as follows: unifilar, edge-emitting hidden Markov models with probabilistically distinct states. The key difference is that history ϵ-machines are defined by a process, whereas generator ϵ-machines define a process. We show here that these two definitions are equivalent in the finite-state case.
Integrating CRISPR Technology with Key Genetic Markers in Pancreatic Cancer: A New Frontier in Targeted Therapies
Authors: Stefanoudakis Dimitrios
Published: January 2025

Pancreatic cancer is the result of mutations in crucial genetic markers like KRAS and TP53 that make treatment challenging. This article discusses how CRISPR Cas9 technology can be combined with these markers to create treatments. CRISPR allows for the alteration or repair of these mutations, with the aim of restoring gene function or blocking cancer-causing pathways. For instance, CRISPR has the potential to fix mutations in TP53 or CDKN2A genes and restore SMAD4 signaling or target the KRAS oncogene in the body’s cells. However promising, it may be that CRISPR encounters obstacles like unintentional effects and challenges in effectively delivering it to pancreatic tumor cells. Furthermore, ethical concerns, especially related to the editing of the germline, need consideration. As techniques based on CRISPR advance, there is a chance for them to transform the treatment landscape for cancer by offering personalized therapies. More studies are needed to enhance how treatments are administered accurately and safely through methods and targeted testing for effectiveness.
Optimizing Supply Chain Inventory: A Mixed Integer Linear Programming Approach
Authors: Vicente Joaquim Jorge
Published: January 2025

Abstract: Inventory supply chain planning involves determining the quantity of products to be transported among entities within a specified planning horizon. Often, inventory levels are reviewed at set intervals: (1) Background: In this paper, periodic review (s,S) policy is used to optimize inventories from an integrated perspective of inventory management across the supply chain. The decision to place an order and the order quantity are based on the inventory level at the review time. If the inventory falls below a certain level (s), an order is placed to replenish it to a target level (S); (2) Methods: The planning model is implemented using a mixed integer linear programming model. It determines the inventory levels, supply levels and the (s) and (S) levels for each entity, as well as the flow of products between them. To test the model, a case study is conducted to demonstrate its applicability; (3) Results: The experimental data confirm the model’s validity, as its behavior aligns with the expectations for a periodic review (s,S) policy; (4) Conclusions: Since a fixed replenishment frequency is mandatory, with no continuous inventory review required, this policy offers simplicity and ease of implementation, making it a practical choice for certain inventory management.
Non-Point Source Pollution Risk Assessment in Karst Basins: Integrating Source–Sink Landscape Theory and Soil Erosion Modeling
Authors: Hu Senhua , Yang Yongqiong , Chen Jingan , Yu Wei , Huang Xia , Lu Jia , He Yun , Zhang Yeyu , Yang Haiquan , Xu Xiaorong
Published: January 2025

Non-point source pollution poses a significant threat to global water security, and risk assessment and key source area (CSA) identification are critical for its management. While source–sink landscape models are widely used for non-point source pollution evaluation, their application in karst regions is challenged by ecological fragility, shallow soil layers, and severe soil erosion, limiting their effectiveness in accurately identifying pollution risks and CSAs. This study focuses on the Caohai Lake basin in southwestern China; it integrates the landscape-weighted load index (LWLI) and the universal soil loss equation (USLE) to assess non-point source pollution risks in the basin with the aim of precisely delineating critical source areas (CSAs). Total phosphorus (TP) and total nitrogen (TN) served as key predictors of water quality, and their responses to the LWLI and USLE were analyzed in the karst environment. The results revealed the following: (1) source landscapes cover 65% of the basin area, with cropland (40%) being the primary contributor to nitrogen pollution; (2) the LWLI and USLE explain 50–67% of the TP and TN variations during the wet season, with a sharp increase in water quality risk when the LWLI exceeds 0.75; and (3) high-risk and very high-risk areas account for 36.3% and 15.3% of the basin, respectively, and are concentrated in the northwest and south, where intensive agriculture and severe soil erosion dominate. These findings provide a scientific basis for non-point source pollution control in the Caohai Lake basin.
Towards New Strategies for Investing: Insights on Sustainable Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)
Authors: Marín-Rodríguez Nini Johana , González-Ruíz Juan David , Botero Sergio
Published: January 2025

As investors increasingly incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into their decision-making, sustainable Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) have gained prominence in both investment portfolios and financial research. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Sustainable ETF research landscape by utilizing scientometric and bibliometric methods with tools such as VOSviewer, Bibliometrix, and CiteSpace. Drawing from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, the study identifies key thematic areas, influential authors, and emerging trends. The findings highlight the conceptual evolution of Green ETFs, from early definitions focused on ESG-aligned investments to more complex instruments incorporating diversified screening criteria and advanced technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence. Practical challenges such as regulatory inconsistencies, high implementation costs, and limited investor education are underscored as critical barriers to broader adoption. Future trends reveal the growing role of blockchain technology for ESG verification, crisis-specific ETF models, and the development of more inclusive screening strategies. Strategically, Green ETFs demonstrate resilience during market volatility and support sustainability-driven investment frameworks. The study provides valuable insights for investors, policymakers, and researchers, emphasizing Green ETFs’ role in driving sustainable finance and offering actionable guidance for optimizing ESG investment strategies.