bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Metaheuristic Algorithm Performance Through Structured Population and Evolutionary Game Theory
Authors: Escobar-Cuevas Héctor , Cuevas Erik , Luque-Chang Alberto , Barba-Toscano Oscar , Pérez-Cisneros Marco
Published: November 2024

Diversity is crucial for metaheuristic algorithms. It prevents early convergence, balances exploration and exploitation, and helps to avoid local optima. Traditional metaheuristic algorithms tend to rely on a single strategy for generating new solutions, often resulting in a lack of diversity. In contrast, employing multiple strategies encourages a variety of search behaviors and a diverse pool of potential solutions, thereby improving the exploration of the search space. Evolutionary Game Theory (EGT) modifies agents’ strategies through competition, promoting successful strategies and eliminating weaker ones. Structured populations, as opposed to unstructured ones, preserve diverse strategies through localized competition, meaning that an individual’s strategy is influenced by only a subset or group of the population and not all elements. This paper presents a novel metaheuristic method based on EGT applied to structured populations. Initially, individuals are positioned near optimal regions using the Metropolis–Hastings algorithm. Subsequently, each individual is endowed with a unique search strategy. Considering a certain number of clusters, the complete population is segmented. Within these clusters, the method enhances search efficiency and solution quality by adapting all strategies through an intra-cluster competition. To assess the effectiveness of the proposed method, it has been compared against several well-known metaheuristic algorithms across a suite of 30 test functions. The results indicated that the new methodology outperformed the established techniques, delivering higher-quality solutions and faster convergence rates.
Adaptive Fault-Tolerant Tracking Control for Continuous-Time Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Qiao Ming-Yang , Chang Xiao-Heng
Published: November 2024

This paper investigated the tracking problem of mixed H∞ and L2−L∞ adaptive fault-tolerant control (FTC) for continuous-time interval type-2 fuzzy systems (IT2FSs). For the membership function mismatch and uncertainty between the modules of the nonlinear system, the IT2 fuzzy model is applied to linearly approximate it. The observer can sensitively estimate the system state, and the adaptive fault estimation functions can estimate adaptively the fault signals, which enables the designed adaptive FTC scheme to ensure the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop control system and achieve the desired mixed H∞ and L2−L∞ tracking performance. The designed adaptive control law can achieve the purpose of dynamic compensation for faults and disturbances, and the introduced lemmas further reduce the design conservatism by adjusting the slack parameters and matrices. Finally, a mass-spring-damping system is used to illustrate the effectiveness of the designed method.
Deep Learning-Enhanced Autoencoder for Multi-Carrier Wireless Systems
Authors: Aziz Md Abdul , Rahman Md Habibur , Tabassum Rana , Sejan Mohammad Abrar Shakil , Baek Myung-Sun , Song Hyoung-Kyu
Published: November 2024

In a multi-carrier (MC) system, the transmitted data are split across several sub-carriers as a crucial approach for achieving high data rates, reliability, and spectral efficiency. Deep learning (DL) enhances MC systems by improving signal representation, leading to more efficient data transmission and reduced bit error rates. In this paper, we propose an MC system supported by DL for operation on fading channels. Deep neural networks are utilized to model the modulation block, while a gated recurrent unit (GRU) network is used to model the demodulation blocks, acting as the encoder and decoder within an autoencoder (AE) architecture. The proposed scheme, known as MC-AE, differs from existing AE-based systems by directly processing channel state information and the received signal in a fully data-driven way, unlike traditional methods that rely on channel equalizers. This approach enables MC-AE to improve diversity and coding gains in fading channels by simultaneously optimizing the encoder and decoder. In this experiment, we evaluated the performance of the proposed model under both perfect and imperfect channel conditions and compared it with other models. Additionally, we assessed the performance of the MC-AE system against index modulation-based MC systems. The results demonstrate that the GRU-based MC-AE system outperforms the others.
Conceptual Framework for Adaptive Bacterial Memetic Algorithm Parameterization in Storage Location Assignment Problem
Authors: Udvardy Kitti , Görbe Polina , Bódis Tamás , Botzheim János
Published: November 2024

Recognized as an NP-hard combinatorial challenge, Storage Location Assignment Problem (SLAP) demands heuristic or algorithmic solutions for effective optimization. This paper specifically examines the enhancement of SLAP through the utilization of evolutionary algorithms, as they are particularly suitable for complex cases. Among others, the genetic algorithm (GA) is typically applied to solve this problem. This paper investigates the Bacterial Memetic Algorithm (BMA) as a possible solution for optimization. Though the comparative analysis of the BMA with the previously well-used GA algorithm under certain test parameters reveals that BMA is suitable for SLA optimization, BMA failed to achieve better results. We attribute the unsatisfactory results to the parameter settings, as illustrated by a few specific examples. However, the complexity of the problem and the parameterization does not allow for continuous manual parameter adjustment, which is why we have identified the need for a concept that automatically and adaptively adjusts the parameter settings based on the statistics and fitness values obtained during the execution. The novelty of this paper is to specify the concept of adaptive BMA parameterization and rules.
Prediction of China’s Polysilicon Prices: A Combination Model Based on Variational Mode Decomposition, Sparrow Search Algorithm and Long Short-Term Memory
Authors: Wang Jining , Jiang Lin , Wang Lei
Published: November 2024

Given the non-stationarity, nonlinearity, and high complexity of polysilicon prices in the photovoltaic (PV) industry chain, this paper introduces upstream and downstream material prices of the PV industry chain and macroeconomic indicators as influencing factors. The VMD–SSA–LSTM combination model is constructed to predict polysilicon prices, which is based on Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) and utilizes the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA) to optimize the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network. The research shows that decomposing the original polysilicon time series using the VMD algorithm effectively extracts the main features of polysilicon price data, reducing data instability. By optimizing the learning rate, hidden layer nodes, and regularization coefficients of the LSTM model using the Sparrow Search Algorithm, the model achieves higher convergence accuracy. Compared to the traditional LSTM model and VMD–LSTM model, the VMD–SSA–LSTM model exhibits the smallest error and the highest goodness-of-fit on the polysilicon dataset, demonstrating higher predictive accuracy for polysilicon prices, which provides more accurate reference data for market analysis and pricing decisions of the polysilicon industry.
Aerospace Equipment Fault Diagnosis Method Based on Fuzzy Fault Tree Analysis and Interpretable Interval Belief Rule Base
Authors: Long Mingxian , Zhu Hailong , Zhang Guangling , He Wei
Published: November 2024

The stable operation of aerospace equipment is important for space safety, and the fault diagnosis of aerospace equipment is of practical significance. A fault diagnosis system needs to establish clear causal relationships and provide interpretable determination results. Fuzzy fault tree analysis (FFTA) is a flexible and powerful fault diagnosis method, which can deeply understand causes and fault mechanisms. The interval belief rule base (IBRB) can describe uncertainty. In this paper, an interpretable fault diagnosis model (FFDI) for aerospace equipment based on FFTA and the IBRB is presented for the first time. Firstly, the initial FFDI is constructed with the assistance of FFTA. Second, a model inference is implemented based on an evidential reasoning (ER) parsing algorithm. Then, a projection covariance matrix adaptive evolutionary strategy algorithm with an interpretability constraints (IP-CMA-ES) optimization algorithm is used for optimization. Finally, the effectiveness of the FFDI is verified by a flywheel dataset. This method ensures the completeness of the rule base and the interpretability of the model, avoids the problem of exploding certain combinations of rules, and is suitable for the fault diagnosis of aerospace equipment.
Mathematical and Computational Modelling in Mechanics of Materials and Structures
Authors: Fantuzzi Nicholas , Fabbrocino Francesco , Montemurro Marco , Nanni Francesca , Huang Qun , Correia José António , Dassatti Leonardo , Bacciocchi Michele
Published: November 2024

The intersection of mathematics and computational modeling with the mechanics of materials and structural engineering continues to yield substantial advancements in both theoretical and applied domains [...]
Personality and Attachment Patterns in Patients with Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Tamimi Nadia , Al-Hameed Majed , Alqahtani Mohammed M. J. , Uzair Mohammad , Bashir Shahid , Tayeb Haythum , Abu-Zaid Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate personality and relationship patterns in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and compare them to patients with epilepsy and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: A total of 68 participants were recruited (mean age = 29.8 ± 9.4 years), including 25 (36.2%) with PNES. The assessment was conducted using the Relationship Questionnaire (RQ), Big Five Inventory (BFI), Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Conflict Behavior Scale (CBS). Results: The IQ of patients with PNES (88.8 ± 13.6) was lower compared to healthy controls (103.5 ± 28.0) but higher than epilepsy patients (84.6 ± 12.9). There were no significant differences between PNES patients and either patients with epilepsy or healthy controls in terms of security, fearfulness, preoccupation, or dismissiveness based on RQ subscale scores. PNES patients tended to be less satisfied (RAS total score, p = 0.10), but did not differ on overall life quality (on SWLS) compared to epilepsy patients and healthy individuals. There were no significant differences in the scores for different attachment styles (secure, fearful, preoccupied, dismissive) among the groups (p > 0.05). Significant differences were found in agreeableness (p = 0.017) and openness (p = 0.009) among the groups. The PNES group exhibits higher scores in Negative—Own (p = 0.009), Positive—Own (p = 0.011), Negative—Partner (p = 0.011), and Positive—Partner (p = 0.028) compared to epilepsy and healthy individuals. No significant differences observed in the Abusive—Own and Abusive—Partner scores (p > 0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlights distinct personality traits and relationship patterns in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) compared to epilepsy patients and healthy controls, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address these psychological nuances effectively.
Impact of Modified Diet, Swallowing Exercises, and Neuromuscular Electrostimulation on Severity of Oropharyngeal Dysphagia of Geriatric Patients
Authors: Rugaitienė Margarita , Lesauskaitė Vita , Ulozienė Ingrida , Kalinauskaitė Gerda , Juška Marius , Damulevičienė Gytė
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a common swallowing disorder, characterized by difficulties in moving food and liquids from the mouth to the esophagus; it is particularly prevalent among older adults with neurological conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a short-term complex treatment protocol combining dietary modifications, swallowing exercises, and transcutaneous neuromuscular electrostimulation in reducing the oropharyngeal dysphagia severity and aspiration risk among geriatric patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 64 participants aged 60 and older, with oropharyngeal dysphagia, at LSMU Kaunas Hospital between May 2021 and April 2023, were included in the study after excluding those with significant comorbidities. Diagnostic assessments included the water swallow test and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing, conducted before and after treatment. Results: The results indicated a statistically significant reduction in the severity of oropharyngeal dysphagia, with 18.8% of patients showing improvements from moderate to mild dysphagia and 33.3% from severe to moderate. Additionally, the median PAS score was four points (IQR 3–6) before treatment and significantly decreased to three points (IQR 2–4) after treatment (p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that even a short-term multidisciplinary approach that lasts 10 days can effectively alleviate the symptoms of oropharyngeal dysphagia, enhance patient safety, and improve swallowing among geriatric patients suffering from this condition.
Impact of Diabetes on Excessive Cardiovascular Risk: Matched Analysis Based on the European Health Interview Survey
Authors: Pataki Jenifer , Szőllősi Gergő József
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: Diabetes represents a major public health challenge due to its strong link to cardiovascular risk, therefore the aim was to explore the excessive cardiovascular risk attributed to diabetes. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on data from the European Health Interview Surveys in Hungary. Propensity score matching was used to control confounding factors including age, gender, education, marital status, income, health status, obesity, smoking, place of residence, and physical activity. Results: A total of 15,874 individuals were analyzed, of whom 1447 (9.12%) reported having diabetes. Furthermore, diabetes was significantly associated with higher prevalence rates of hypertension (by 23.4%), arrhythmia (by 3.85%), heart attack (by 3.42%), and coronary artery disease (by 6.92%) after adjusting for potential confounders. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of managing cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with diabetes.
Integrating Rehabilitation Services into Routine Care of Rheumatoid Arthritis May Reduce the Inflammatory Response: A Hospital-Based Follow-Up Study in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Hui-Ju , Chen Wei-Jen , Livneh Hanoch , Huang Hua-Lung , Lu Ming-Chi , Tsai Tzung-Yi
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: For persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the accompanying systemic inflammatory conditions often insidiously damage extra-glandular organs, causing poor outcomes. Despite evidence manifesting the application of rehabilitation services (RSs), the association between RSs use and changes in the inflammatory response among persons with RA has not yet been established. With that in mind, this study aimed to evaluate changes in C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) before and after long-term RSs use. Materials and Methods: For this two-group pre and posttest study, medical data of 4505 persons with RA aged 20–70 years between 2012 and 2017 were retrieved from an electronic medical record database held by a hospital in Taiwan. Of them, 1387 subjects were categorized as RSs users, who received RSs at least six times within the first year of RA onset. Generalized estimating equations analysis was then employed to compare the changes in ESR and CRP at baseline, and at 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months after RA onset. Results: After adjusting for inherent differences and mature impact, those receiving standard care plus RSs were found to have a lower CRP level than those without receiving RSs. This benefit was maintained within a 3-year follow-up period. Additionally, a slight but nonsignificant reduction in ESR existed over the same timeframe. Conclusions: Integrating RSs into conventional care may be helpful to modulate the inflammation for RA patients, but further research via randomized controlled trials is needed to validate the application of RSs.
Hybrid Nanostructures of Fe3O4 and Au Prepared via Coprecipitation and Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Kresnik Lan , Majerič Peter , Feizpour Darja , Črešnar Klementina Pušnik , Rudolf Rebeka
Published: November 2024

The coupled processes of coprecipitation and ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) were used to synthesize Fe3O4-Au hybrid nanostructures. The first coprecipitation method enabled the synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles by mixing iron salts’ ions (Fe2+ and Fe3+) and ammonia as the base, and USP was used as the coating process of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles with Au. The formatted hybrid nanostructures consist of Fe3O4 nanoparticles that have Au on their surface in the form of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). AuNPs have a crystalline structure and range in size from 10 to 200 nm. Additional characterization techniques, including ICP-OES, TEM, SEM, EDS, DLS, zeta potential, and room temperature magnetic hysteresis loops, were used to determine the chemical, physical, and magnetic properties of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles and hybrid nanostructures. It was found that USP produces separate AuNPs too (not just on the Fe3O4 surface), suggesting a bimodal formation of AuNPs. The zeta potential of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles showed poor stability (−15 mV), indicating a high tendency to aggregate, and the zeta potential of the hybrid nanostructures was also very low (≅0), which, comparatively means even worse stability. The saturation magnetization of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles was 35 emu/g, which is relatively lower than that of bulk Fe3O4, while the saturation magnetization of the hybrid nanostructures was significantly lower (0.1 emu/g) compared to the Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
Synthesis and Characterization of TiB2-Reinforced AlCoCrFeNi2.1 High-Entropy-Alloy Matrix Composite
Authors: Han Xin , Liu Enshuo , Peng Chong , Han Chan , Zhou Guangtong , Li Chenjing , Qi Li , Li Rui , Ke Yujiao
Published: November 2024

Advanced manufacturing technologies have imposed higher demands on the strength, hardness, and high-temperature stability of materials, such as cutting tools, molds, and wear-resistant parts. Metal matrix composites with excellent comprehensive properties are expected to meet these demands. High-entropy alloys (HEAs), composed of unique multi-principle elements, offer high strength, hardness, and excellent high-temperature stability, superior to traditional cemented carbides in some cases. Here, the AlCoCrFeNi2.1 HEA reinforced by TiB2 was fabricated by an innovative alliance of mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). It was found that tuning the milling time and content of the reinforced phase could effectively realize the uniform distribution of the TiB2 reinforcement phase in the matrix. The AlCoCrFeNi2.1 with 5 vol.%TiB2 after MA for 2 h resulted in the particle refinement of TiB2 and the uniform distribution of TiB2 in the matrix. And the bulk sintered at 1150 °C exhibited an excellent combination of a compressive yield strength of 1510 MPa, a compressive strength of 2500 MPa, and a high hardness of 780 HV. The analysis of different strengthening mechanisms suggests that the fine grain strengthening and precipitation strengthening make the HEA composite possess excellent compressive yield strength and fracture strength.
Static Behavior and Elastoplastic Ultimate Bearing Capacity Calculation Method of a Single-Layer Steel Reticulated Shell After Corrosion
Authors: Chen Huiyun , Zhang Haoran , Qiu Feng
Published: November 2024

Single-layer steel reticulated shell structures have a long history and are widely distributed. As their service life increases, corrosion in these structures becomes an increasingly prominent problem. However, currently, there is nearly no research available on the static behavior of corroded steel reticulated shell structures. Therefore, taking the single-layer steel reticulated shell structure as the research object, an accelerated corrosion test was first carried out on Q345, a commonly used steel for this structure, and an equivalent conversion calculation method was proposed. Then, a Python program (version 3.5.0) for single-layer reticulated shells considering component dimensions, joint stiffness, and random corrosion was written, and numerical simulation analysis was carried out on the static behavior of single-layer steel reticulated shell structures after corrosion. Finally, based on parametric analysis, the random corrosion influence coefficient and joint stiffness influence coefficient were derived, and a calculation method for the elastic–plastic ultimate bearing capacity of the structure was established, which could enhance the current design methods for steel reticulated shells by taking corrosion effects into account. The research results will provide specific and programmed references for the damage identification and safety assessment of single-layer steel reticulated shell structures during their service life in strongly corrosive environments along the coast and offshore, holding important engineering significance and scientific value.
Recurrent Neural Network (RNN)-Based Approach to Predict Mean Flow Stress in Industrial Rolling
Authors: Zinyagin Alexey G. , Muntin Alexander V. , Tynchenko Vadim S. , Zhikharev Pavel I. , Borisenko Nikita R. , Malashin Ivan
Published: November 2024

This study addresses the usage of data from industrial plate mills to calculate the mean flow stress of different steel grades. Accurate flow stress values may optimize rolling technology, but the existing literature often provides coefficients like those in the Hensel–Spittel equation for a limited number of steel grades, whereas in modern production, the chemical composition may vary by thickness, customer requirements, and economic factors, making it necessary to conduct costly and labor-intensive laboratory studies. This research demonstrates that leveraging data from industrial rolling mills and employing machine learning (ML) methods can predict material rheological behavior without extensive laboratory research. Two modeling approaches are employed: Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) architectures. The model comprising one GRU layer and two fully connected layers, each containing 32 neurons, yields the best performance, achieving a Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of 7.5 MPa for the predicted flow stress of three steel grades in the validation set.
Microstructure Development of Powder-Based Cu Composite During High Shear Strain Processing
Authors: Kunčická Lenka , Walek Josef , Kocich Radim
Published: November 2024

Commercially pure Cu features excellent electric conductivity but low mechanical properties. In order to improve the mechanical properties of Cu, strengthening elements can be added to prepare alloys or composites featuring enhanced performances. This study focuses on the detailed characterization of the microstructure of a Cu composite strengthened with Al2O3 particles during high shear strain processing. The Cu-Al2O3 mixture was prepared by powder metallurgy and directly consolidated by the intensive plastic deformation method of hot rotary swaging. Samples cut from the consolidated piece were further processed by the severe plastic deformation method of high pressure torsion (HPT). The primary aim was to investigate the effects of varying degrees of the imposed shear strain, i.e., the number of HPT revolutions, microstructure development (grain size and morphology, texture, grain misorientations, etc.) of the consolidated composite; the microstructure observations were supplemented with measurements of Vickers microhardness. The results showed that the added oxide particles effectively hindered the movement of dislocations and aggravated grain fragmentation, which also led to the relatively high presence of grain misorientations pointing to the occurrence of residual stress within the microstructure. The high shear strain imposed into (the peripheral region of) the sample subjected to four HPT revolutions imparted equiaxed ultra-fine grains and an average Vickers microhardness of more than 130 HV0.1.
Experimental Study on the Optimization of Rust Removal Effect on Surface Erosion of Grade A Marine Steel by Ultra-High-Pressure Water Jet
Authors: Zhang Qingbo , Cao Yupeng , Shi Weidong , Zhou Rui , Cheng Shuming , Wang Zhengang
Published: November 2024

To improve the rust removal effect of grade A marine steel by ultra-high-pressure water jets, the rust removal efficiency and rust removal quality are used as measurement standards. Taking jet pressure, standoff distance, and nozzle traverse speed as influencing factors, an orthogonal experimental table was established, and different combinations of process parameters were used to impact the surface of grade A marine steel. The rust removal efficiency is expressed by the rust removal area per unit time. The larger the rust removal area, the higher the rust removal efficiency. The rust removal quality is expressed by the erosion depth. The smaller the erosion depth, the higher the rust removal quality. Using the range analysis method to process the orthogonal experimental data, we determined the optimal process parameters for the rust removal efficiency and rust removal quality. The microscopic morphology of marine grade A steel after rust removal was observed using a confocal microscope to determine the sample with the best rust removal effect. The results indicate that the optimal process parameters for rust removal efficiency are jet pressure of 200 MPa, standoff distance of 90 mm, and nozzle traverse speed of 240 mm/min. The optimal process parameters for rust removal quality are jet pressure of 160 MPa, standoff distance of 60 mm, and nozzle traverse speed of 240 mm/min. The optimal process parameters for rust removal effect are jet pressure of 160 MPa, standoff distance of 90 mm, and nozzle traverse speed of 240 mm/min. By analyzing the microscopic morphology of the samples, the process parameters of the sample with the best rust removal effect were determined to be consistent with the optimal process parameters obtained by range analysis, verifying the accuracy of the optimal process parameters. Compared with the existing jet machining technology, the optimal process parameters obtained in this paper take into account both the rust removal quality and rust removal efficiency, and they improve the rust removal effect.
Sex and Age Differences in the Impact of Metabolic Syndrome on Heart Failure Development
Authors: Kim Tae-Eun , Kim Do Young , Kim Hyeongsu , Kim Sung Hea
Published: November 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a cluster of metabolic dysregulations, is recognized as a significant risk factor for the development of heart failure (HF). The pathophysiological mechanisms linking MetS to HF are complex and multifaceted, with the components of MetS contributing to cardiac deterioration through impaired myocardial energy metabolism, increased inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Numerous clinical studies have confirmed the relationship between MetS and HF. Multiple studies have demonstrated that the impact of MetS on HF varies by sex and age. Metabolic disorders, including MetS, have a greater impact on HF incidence in younger adults compared to the elderly population and in women compared to men. Although the reasons for these differences are not yet fully understood, recognizing the sex- and age-related variations is crucial for developing targeted strategies to prevent HF in individuals with MetS. Future research should continue to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind these variations and identify optimal management approaches that account for both sex and age in reducing HF risk.
Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Possible Molecular Mechanisms of Leaf Growth and Development in Disanthus cercidifolius var. longipes
Authors: Tian Xiaoming , Xiang Guangfeng , Mou Cun , Zhu Lu , Song Jing , Li Gaofei , Lv Hao
Published: November 2024

Background: Disanthus cercidifolius var. longipes is an ancient relic plant unique to China. However, the typical shade-loving plant is largely exposed to the sun, which poses a major challenge to its conservation. Methods: This study explored dynamic changes in primary and secondary metabolites in D. cercidifolius leaves at different stages of development, combining metabolomics and transcriptome analysis to discuss the differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Results: The DAMs and DEGs were enriched in pathways related to photosynthesis, carbon (C) metabolism, anthocyanin synthesis, plant hormone signal transduction, and flavonoid synthesis. At the initial stage of leaf development, many primary metabolites were synthesized in the leaves. Before leaf maturity, many primary metabolites were converted into secondary metabolites. Combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis showed that the metabolites and genes related to anthocyanin synthesis and flavonoid metabolism were upregulated. In contrast, the genes related to C metabolism and C fixation were downregulated. After leaf maturity, photosynthetic capacity increased, total flavonoid content peaked (implying the strongest photoprotection capacity), and the transformation of anthocyanins and flavonoids was weakened. Conclusions: Light intensity indirectly affects the accumulation of the primary and secondary metabolism of D. cercidifolius. With the enhancement of photoprotection, the photosynthetic energy capacity decreases. It is, therefore, inferable that D. cercidifolius has shading properties and achieves a stable nutrient supply during growth and development through these strategies. Thus, D. cercidifolius protection requires a shaded environment.
Enhancing Morchella Mushroom Yield and Quality Through the Amendment of Soil Physicochemical Properties and Microbial Community with Wood Ash
Authors: Huang Kai , Li Ling , Wu Weijun , Pu Kunlun , Qi Wei , Qi Jianzhao , Li Minglei
Published: November 2024

Morchella mushroom is a nutritionally rich and rare edible fungus. The traditional cultivation model, which relies on expanding the cultivation area to meet market demand, is no longer sufficient to address the rapidly growing market demand. Enhancing the yield and quality of Morchella without increasing the cultivation area is an intractable challenge in the development of the Morchella mushroom industry. Against this backdrop, this study investigates the effects of different amounts of wood ash (WA) application on the yield and quality of Morchella, and conducts an in-depth analysis in conjunction with soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities. The results indicate that the application of WA improves both the yield and quality of Morchella, with the highest yield increase observed in the WA2 treatment (4000 kg/hm2), which showed a 118.36% increase compared to the control group (CK). The application of WA also modified the physicochemical properties of the soil, significantly improving the integrated fertility index of the soil (IFI, p < 0.05). The soil microbial community structure was altered by the addition of WA. Redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed that pH and total potassium (TK) were the main environmental factors influencing the bacterial community, while pH, TK, and total nitrogen (TN) were the main factors influencing the fungal community structure. In addition, bacterial community diversity tended to increase with higher WA application rates, whereas fungal community diversity generally showed a decreasing trend. Furthermore, the relative abundance of beneficial microbial communities, such as Acidobacteriota, which promote the growth of Morchella, increased with higher WA application, while the relative abundance of detrimental microbial communities, such as Xanthomonadaceae, decreased. Partial least squares path model (PLS-PM) analysis of external factors affecting Morchella yield and quality indicated that WA application can alter soil physicochemical properties and soil microbial communities, thereby improving Morchella yield and quality. Among these factors, soil fertility was identified as the most important determinant of Morchella yield and quality.
Isolation and Detection of the Emerging Pathogen Escherichia albertii in Clinical Stool Samples and the Potential Transmission by Meat Samples in Retail
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Zeeshan , De Rauw Klara , Van den Abeele Anne-Marie , Joossens Marie , Heyvaert Lore , Houf Kurt
Published: November 2024

The significance of Escherichia albertii as a foodborne pathogen is increasingly acknowledged, but the assessment of its occurrence and transmission remains challenging due to the lack of validation of selective isolation, detection, and identification methods. The aim of the present study was to examine its presence on various meat samples at the retail level in order to assess a potential foodborne transmission and its occurrence in clinical stool samples. First, the evaluation and selection of a selective enrichment broth and isolation medium, combined with an optimized identification by MALDI-TOF MS, as well as a suitable DNA extraction method and a PCR-based detection strategy were developed. After the evaluation of existing isolation strategies and the formulation of an adapted enrichment and isolation medium, 100% isolation specificity was not achieved. An identity confirmation of suspected colonies remains necessary. A total of 292 samples, including 45 beef fillet, 51 minced beef, 50 pork fillet, 30 minced pork, 30 chicken carcass, 51 chicken fillet, and 35 minced chicken samples were examined. Samples were all collected at the retail level, including supermarkets and local butcheries. Escherichia albertii was isolated from two chicken fillets (3.9%) and additionally detected in one minced chicken (4.5%) and two other chicken fillet (4.5%) samples by a PCR assay. All beef and pork samples tested negative for its presence, but transmission through these meat types cannot be excluded, as it potentially correlates with the level of fecal contamination that was significantly higher on poultry products. With other hygienic conditions and processing steps applied, the presence of E. albertii on food can therefore differ in other parts of the world. Escherichia albertii was present in 0.4% of the 2419 clinical stool samples examined. The future development of a chromogenic isolation medium, as well as further extensive epidemiologic approaches and a genomic comparison of human, food, and animal isolates, could enhance the assessment of the emerging pathogen status and its potential as a foodborne hazard.
Biotic Interaction Underpins the Assembly Processes of the Bacterial Community Across the Sediment–Water Interface in a Subalpine Lake
Authors: Wang Xue , Liu Jinxian , Ren Jiali , Chai Baofeng
Published: November 2024

The sediment–water interface is the most active region for biogeochemical processes and biological communities in aquatic ecosystems. As the main drivers of biogeochemical cycles, the assembly mechanisms and the distribution characteristics of microbial communities at this boundary remain unclear. This study investigated the microbial communities across the sediment–water interface in a natural subalpine lake in China. The results indicated that the diversity of bacterial communities in middle sediment was significantly higher than that in overlying water and other sediments (p < 0.001). Pearson’s correlation analysis indicated that the diversity was significantly influenced by biotic factors (e.g., diversity of fungus, protozoan and alga) and physicochemical parameters (e.g., total carbon, total organic carbon, nitrate, ammonium and pH) (p < 0.01). Null model analysis revealed that the homogeneous selection dominated the assembly of the bacteria community in sediment, whereas the heterogeneous selection dominated that in overlying water. The least squares path analysis showed that interactions between protozoa and bacteria had a greater impact on bacterial community assembly (p < 0.001). Important taxa influence the assembly by regulating biotic interactions. These findings provided a basis for understanding the importance of biotic interactions in maintaining subalpine lakes’ ecosystems across the sediment–water interface.
Effects of Increasing the Nitrogen–Phosphorus Ratio on the Structure and Function of the Soil Microbial Community in the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Ma Jinzhao , Zhang Zehao , Sun Jingkuan , Li Tian , Fu Zhanyong , Hu Rui , Zhang Yao
Published: November 2024

Nitrogen (N) deposition from human activities leads to an imbalance in the N and phosphorus (P) ratios of natural ecosystems, which has a series of negative impacts on ecosystems. In this study, we used 16s rRNA sequencing technology to investigate the effect of the N-P supply ratio on the bulk soil (BS) and rhizosphere soil (RS) bacterial community of halophytes in coastal wetlands through manipulated field experiments. The response of soil bacterial communities to changing N and P ratios was influenced by plants. The N:P ratio increased the α-diversity of the RS bacterial community and changed the structure of the BS bacterial community. P addition may increase the threshold, causing decreased α-diversity of the bacterial community. The co-occurrence network of the RS community is more complex, but it is more fragile than that of BS. The co-occurrence network in BS has more modules and fewer network hubs. The increased N:P ratio can increase chemoheterotrophy and denitrification processes in the RS bacterial community, while the N:P ratio can decrease the N-fixing processes and increase the nitration processes. The response of the BS and the RS bacterial community to the N:P ratio differed, as influenced by soil organic carbon (SOC) content in terms of diversity, community composition, mutualistic networks, and functional composition. This study demonstrates that the effect of the N:P ratio on soil bacterial community is different for plant roots and emphasizes the role of plant roots in shaping soil bacterial community during environmental change.
Medico-Legal Applications of the Human Microbiome and Critical Issues Due to Environmental Transfer: A Review
Authors: Ricchezze Giulia , Buratti Erika , De Micco Francesco , Cingolani Mariano , Scendoni Roberto
Published: November 2024

Microbiome has recently seen an increase in its forensic applications. It could be employed to identify a suspect when DNA is not available; it can be used to establish postmortem interval (PMI). Furthermore, it could prove to be fundamental in cases of sexual assault. One of the most interesting aspects to study is how microbiomes are transferred. The aim of this review is to analyze the existing literature focusing on the potential transfer of microbiome from humans to environment. Searches on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified a total of 348 articles. Furthermore, from the bibliographies of the included articles, an additional publication was selected, in accordance with the established inclusion and exclusion criteria. This study has shown the potential of utilizing microbiomes as trace evidence, particularly in connecting individuals to specific environments or objects. However, the variability and dynamics of microbial transfer and persistence need to be carefully addressed.
Towards Mineralogy 4.0? Atlas of 3D Rocks and Minerals: Digitally Archiving Interactive and Immersive 3D Data of Rocks and Minerals
Authors: Apopei Andrei Ionuţ
Published: November 2024

Mineralogy 4.0 can play a significant role in the future of geological research, education, and exploration by providing a more comprehensive and interactive understanding of rocks and minerals. This paper explores the application of digital photogrammetry and augmented reality (AR) technologies as part of Mineralogy 4.0. An atlas of 3D rocks and minerals with 915 high-quality models was created to showcase the potential of photogrammetry in the mineral sciences. The repository contains a wide range of sample types, featuring transparency, metallic luster, fluorescence, or millimetric-scale crystals. The three-dimensional rocks and minerals can also be accessed on-the-go through a mobile application that was developed for Android devices. Additionally, web applications have been developed with specific three-dimensional collections as well as three-dimensional storytelling. AR technology was also integrated into the 3D repository, allowing users to superimpose virtual 3D models of rocks and minerals onto real-world surfaces through their device’s camera. Also, a digital solution with 3D holograms of rocks and minerals was effectively implemented to provide an interactive and immersive experience. The 3D datasets of rocks and minerals can play a significant role in the geoscience community’s research, developing not only in-depth knowledge of specimens but also opening new frontiers in mineral sciences, leading towards a more advanced era of mineralogy.
A Pre-Column Derivatization Method for the HPLC-FLD Determination of Dimethyl and Diethyl Amine in Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Kamaris Georgios , Tsami Maria , Lotca Georgiana-Roxana , Almpani Sofia , Markopoulou Catherine K.
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the detection of nitrosamine precursors has become an important issue for regulatory authorities such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The present study provides a pre-column derivatization method for the analysis of dimethylamine (DMA) and diethylamine (DEA) in pharmaceutical products using HPLC and a fluorescence detector. Appropriate chromatographic parameters, including mobile phase composition (organic solvent, buffer, pH), elution type, flow rate, temperature, and λexcitation/emission, were investigated. Analysis was performed at λexcitation = 450 nm and λemission = 540 nm on a C18 column (at 40 °C) using gradient elution as a mobile phase with Eluent A: Phosphoric Acid Buffer (20 mM, pH = 2.8) and Eluent B: methanol, with a flow of 0.8 mL/min. The method was validated according to ICH specifications in terms of linearity (0.5–10 ng/mL for DMA and 5–100 ng/mL for DEA), specificity, and robustness, as well as repeatability, intermediate precision (%RSD < 2.9), and accuracy (% recovery 98.2–102.0%). The derivatization process was optimized using the “Crossed D-Optimal” experimental design procedure, where one mixture component was cross-correlated with two factors. The stability of the samples was studied over a period of one month. To process the samples (pharmaceuticals), various purification techniques were tried using solid/liquid or liquid/liquid extraction with dichloromethane. Finally, a straightforward solid-phase extraction (SPE, C18) method was chosen prior to derivatization. The method was successfully applied, since the extraction recoveries were >81.6% for DMA (0.5 ppm) and >81.1% for DEA (5 ppm). Based on the results obtained and the available literature, the scientific community seeks, by proposing flexible analytical methods, to delimit the problem of nitrosamines.
Unlocking Molecular Fingerprint of an Ombrotrophic Peat Bog: Advanced Characterization Through Hexamethyldisilazane Thermochemolysis and Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Moghnie Sara , Obeid Emil , Halwani Jalal , Grasset Laurent , Younes Khaled
Published: November 2024

This study examines a boreal peatland (the Sagnes peatland, Fanay, Limousin, France) with a depth of 1 m. This peatland is currently in the late stages of organic deposition, as evidenced by the growth of Carex species, along with Sphagnum mosses, in the uppermost level. To gain molecular insights, we conducted an analysis of the lignin and polyphenolic counterparts using HMDS (hexamethyldisilazane) thermochemolysis, enabling the identification of lignin degradation proxies. The goal was to develop characteristic indicators for the state of lignin degradation based on the relative distribution of lignin phenols, measured by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) after the HMDS thermochemolysis. For that purpose, the singular contribution of the 11 aromatic moieties yielded, along with SGC (sum of lignin moieties) and the most lignin degradation proxies, were applied. It has been shown that HMDS thermochemolysis exhibited the capacity to reveal oxidized and degraded lignin fractions, following the increasing trend yielded for most moieties and SGC proxy, in the mesotelm and catotelm layers. In addition, the C/G (Cinnamyl/Guaiacyl) and S/G (Syringyl/Guaiacyl) ratios showed their highest input in the upper half of the core. This bias in the aforementioned ratios could indicate that HMDS thermochemolysis is to be applied for geological samples, where low G-compounds exist. For the sake of validating HMDS thermochemolysis’ application, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was then applied to the molecular fingerprint. For ratios and proxies of aromatic moieties of HMDS thermochemolysis, the PCA approach exhibited a higher contribution (79%). This indicates the efficiency of these ratios in describing the molecular fingerprint of peat depth records. In addition, a higher separation between the contributions of the investigated variables (molecular proxies) along the first two PCs was noticed. In other words, the variables that showed a high contribution towards PC1 exhibited a low contribution towards PC2, and vice versa. These findings indicate the high reliance of applying the ratios and proxies of HMDS thermochemolysis.
Exploring 4,7-Disubstituted Pyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidines as Antiviral and Anticancer Agents
Authors: Georgiou Eleftheria A. , Paraskevas Konstantinos , Koutra Christina , Persoons Leentje , Schols Dominique , De Jonghe Steven , Kostakis Ioannis K.
Published: November 2024

Thirteen new 4,7-disubstituted pyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidines were synthesized via a straightforward methodology starting from thiourea. The anti-proliferative activity of these compounds was evaluated across a diverse panel of eight cancer cell lines, with derivatives 7d and 7h showing efficacy against several hematological cancer types. Furthermore, all compounds were assessed for their antiviral potency against a panel of viruses. Compounds featuring a cyclopropylamino group and an aminoindane moiety exhibited remarkable efficacy against human coronavirus 229E (HCoV-229E). These findings highlight the pyrimidino[4,5-d]pyrimidine scaffold as an interesting framework for the design of novel antiviral agents against HCoVs, with compounds 7a, 7b, and 7f emerging as strong candidates for further investigation.