bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Laser-Welded EH40 Steel Joint Stress with Different Thicknesses Based on a New Heat Source Model
Authors: Wu Ruolin , Wu Xingyu , Hu Shuai , He Chaomei , Li Huanhuan , Liu Yuan
Published: February 2025

High-strength steel (HSS) plates are widely used due to their superior performance. However, residual stresses generated during welding can exacerbate the initiation of fatigue cracks, and the accurate prediction of residual stresses is crucial. Therefore, thermo-mechanical behavior analysis of the EH40 joints was completed based on the proposed new heat source model. The thermo-elastoplastic finite element analysis was determined via thermo-mechanical coupling with fully parametric programming. The influence of laser welding power and joint thickness on peak temperature and gradient was clarified. Meanwhile, it was found that when the laser welding power increased from 9 kW to 22.5 kW and the joint thickness increased from 6 mm to 15 mm, the distribution trend of longitudinal residual stress in the weld zone was gradually altered from a “U” shape to a “W” shape, while the transverse stress was transformed from a “U” shape to an “M” shape. It was determined that the amplitude of longitudinal and transverse stress changed along the thickness direction of nodes and was directly proportional to the peak temperature. The above results imply that the peak temperature, maximum temperature gradient longitudinal, and transverse residual stress distribution in the weld zone and its vicinity were remarkably affected by laser welding power and joint thickness.
Consideration of Statistical Approaches Within the Accelerated Assessment of Fatigue Properties of Metallic Materials
Authors: Weber Fabian , Wagner Aline , Koziol Janina , Weber Felix , Broeckmann Christoph , Starke Peter
Published: February 2025

Understanding the fatigue behaviour of metallic materials is highly important when it comes to a reliable assessment of material degradation as a result of dynamic loading. Because the provision of such data is associated with great testing effort leading to increased time and cost requirements in terms of conventional methods, accelerated lifetime prediction methods are becoming increasingly important. However, the reduced number of fatigue specimens and tests complicates statistical validations of the obtained results. In this contribution, combinatorial approaches are used to estimate both lifetime prediction bands and virtually-determined S-N curves with a reduced number of specimens, displaying the material-related scatter due to microstructural inhomogeneities. In addition, a variable energy dissipation factor based on cyclic deformation curves is presented, which enables evaluation of materials that exhibit more pronounced scatter, for instance cast materials. An in situ evaluation of the cyclic deformation curves is provided via integration of non-destructive testing methods into the testing rig. Unalloyed SAE 1045 steel, low-alloyed 20MnMoNi5-5 steel, and the cast material EN-GJS-1050-6 are investigated in this research, as these materials posses gradually increasing complexity regarding their respective microstructures.
Reaction Behavior and Kinetic Model of Hydroisomerization and Hydroaromatization of Fluid Catalytic Cracking Gasoline
Authors: Zhong Haijun , Song Xiwen , He Shuai , Zhang Xuerui , Li Qingxun , Xiao Haicheng , Hu Xiaowei , Wang Yue , Chen Boyan , Li Wangliang
Published: February 2025

The hydro-upgrading reaction behavior of model compound 1-hexene and FCC middle gasoline was investigated using a fixed-bed hydrogenation microreactor with a prepared La-Ni-Zn/H-ZSM-5 catalyst. The catalyst was prepared by wetness impregnation method, using hydrothermal treated H-ZSM-5 zeolite blended with alumina as the support, and La, Ni, Zn as the active metals. The reaction tests were carried out at 300–380 °C, 1.0 MPa, 1.5–3.0 h−1 (LSHV), and 300:1 v/v (H2/oil). Analyzing the changes in hydrocarbon components before and after hydro-upgrading elucidated the mechanistic pathways of olefin hydroisomerization and hydroaromatization. Based on these findings, a seven-lump kinetic model was established for the FCC middle gasoline hydro-upgrading process. Given the diversity and complexity of reaction products, they were grouped into seven lumps: normal paraffins, isoparaffins, linear olefins, branched olefins, cycloolefins, naphthenes, and aromatics. Kinetic parameters were estimated using the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm and validated against experimental data. The results showed that the conversion of naphthenes to aromatics exhibited the highest activation energy and pre-exponential factor, resulting in the largest reaction rate increase within the 320–380 °C range. The model accurately predicted the product yields of FCC gasoline hydro-upgrading, with a relative error of less than 5%. These findings provide valuable guidance for the optimization, design, and operation of FCC gasoline hydro-upgrading units, as well as for catalyst development, with the aim of improving process efficiency and fuel quality.
Hydroxide and Hydrophobic Tetrabutylammonium Ions at the Hydrophobe–Water Interface
Authors: Djerdjev Alex M. , Beattie James K.
Published: February 2025

Water and oil do not mix. This essential statement of the hydrophobic effect explains why oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions are unstable and why energy must be supplied to form such emulsions. Breaking O/W emulsions is an exothermic event. Yet metastable O/W emulsions can be prepared with only water acting as the stabilizer by the adsorption of hydroxide ions formed from the enhanced autolysis of interfacial water. The heat of desorption of the hydroxide ions from the oil–water interface is not directly accessible but is obtained from the difference between the heat of reaction and the sum of the neutralization and interfacial heats when an emulsion is broken by the addition of acid. This experimental value of 28.4 kBT is in good agreement with the theoretical estimate of 16–20 kBT made from the fluctuation/correlation model of the hydrophobic force and the value of 14 kBT obtained recently from surface spectroscopy. Subsequent verification of the force driving ions to hydrophobic surfaces is shown for tetrabutylammonium bromide with a dielectric decrement value of 26 M−1 compared to 20 M−1 for NaOH. The positive cation preferentially adsorbs at the oil–water interface over hydroxide ions in agreement with the predicted model.
Structure-Based Virtual Screening of Potential Inhibitors Targeting the Prolyl-tRNA Synthetase (PRS) in Eimeria tenella: Insights from Molecular Docking, ADMET Studies, and Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Cai Haiming , Liao Shenquan , Li Juan , Lv Minna , Lin Xuhui , Song Yongle , Chen Xiangjie , Zhu Yibin , Zhang Jianfei , Qi Nanshan , Sun Mingfei
Published: February 2025

Avian coccidiosis, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, poses a major threat to the poultry industry worldwide, leading to severe economic losses through reduced growth rates, poor feed efficiency, and increased mortality. Although the conventional management of this disease has relied on anticoccidial drugs, the overwhelming use of these agents has led to the rapid emergence and spread of drug-resistant Eimeria isolates, highlighting the urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches. This study employed computational approaches to identify novel inhibitors targeting Eimeria tenella prolyl-tRNA synthetase (EtPRS). Based on the virtual screening of a library of 3045 natural compounds, 42 high-confidence inhibitors were identified. Three compounds, including Chelidonine, Bicuculline, and Guggulsterone, demonstrated strong and selective binding to EtPRS through stable interactions within the active site. ADMET predictions revealed favorable safety profiles, while molecular dynamic simulations confirmed binding stability. Overall, this research established a solid framework for the development of effective anticoccidial agents targeting PRS, contributing to the advancement of therapeutic strategies for combating parasitic infections in the poultry industry.
Insights on Morphology and Thermal Stability of Hollow Pt Nanospheres by In Situ Environmental TEM
Authors: Rezkallah Josephine , Sauvage Xavier , Witulski Bernhard , Moldovan Simona
Published: February 2025

The fields of catalysis and energy storage nowadays quote the use of nanomaterials with well-defined size, morphology, chemical composition, and thermal stability in the high-temperature range and under harsh conditions of reactions. We present herein an approach based on in situ environmental scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), combined with analytical STEM and electron tomography (ET), for the evaluation of the thermal stability of hollow Pt nanospheres under vacuum and high-pressure hydrogen environments. Spherical Pt hollow nanospheres (HNSs) with an average diameter of 15 and 34 nm were synthesized by a galvanic replacement-based procedure using either steep or continuous addition of Pt salts during synthesis. The as-synthesized HNSs exhibit complex 3D structures with shells of a few nm constituted by small Pt nanoparticles and marked by the presence of open channels. The thermal stability of Pt-based HNSs under TEM vacuum and 1 bar of hydrogen flow is reported by considering microstructural changes, e.g., the build-up of a continuous shell and its evolution until HNSs collapse at elevated temperatures (>500 °C). Experimental findings are discussed considering fundamental phenomenological issues, i.e., NP faceting, NP diffusion, and subsequent NP sintering, with respect to the behavior of the systems investigated.
Antioxidant and Tyrosinase-Inhibitory Activities and Biological Bioactivities of Flavonoid Derivatives from Quercus mongolica Pollen
Authors: Joo Yerim , Seo Young Ho , Lee Sangmin , Shin Eunbeen , Yeon Sang Won , Kim Seon Beom , Lee Mi Kyeong
Published: February 2025

Flavonoids, present in plants as enriched secondary metabolites, prevent various stresses such as temperature fluctuations, acidity, and insect predation, are commonly found in leaves, stems, and flowers, and serve as important bioactive components. In this study, a total of eighteen different flavonoids, including one newly identified flavonoid glycoside, were successfully isolated from the pollen of Quercus mongolica. The structure of the novel compound was determined using nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry, and infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, GC analysis was conducted to determine the sugar moiety in the new compound, confirming the specific type of disaccharide present. The 18 compounds were classified as flavonoid glycosides (1–10), flavonoids (11–17), and isoflavone (18). All the isolated compounds were evaluated for their tyrosinase inhibitory and antioxidant activities, and their structure–activity relationships (SARs) were also evaluated. Compounds 12 and 16 showed higher tyrosinase inhibitory activities compared to kojic acid as positive control. Compounds 2, 5, 8, 12, 13, 14, and 16 demonstrated potent antioxidant activities. Among these compounds, 5 and 16 showed even higher antioxidant activity than the ascorbic acid. Structure–activity relationship analysis revealed that tyrosinase-inhibitory and antioxidant activities were enhanced in compounds with a hydroxy group of C-3 or C-3′t in flavonoid aglycones compared to their glycosides. These findings indicate that flavonoids and/or extracts from the pollen of Q. mongolica are valuable natural resources with applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
Chiroptical Spectroscopy, Theoretical Calculations, and Symmetry of a Chiral Transition Metal Complex with Low-Lying Electronic States
Authors: Alshalalfeh Mutasem , Xu Yunjie
Published: February 2025

Vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) enhancement by low-lying electronic states (LLESs) is a fascinating phenomenon, but accounting for it theoretically remains a challenge despite significant research efforts over the past 20 years. In this article, we synthesized two transition metal complexes using the tetradentate Schiff base ligands (R,R)- and (S,S)-N,N′-Bis(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-1,2-cyclohexanediamine with Co(II) and Mn(III), referred to as Co(II)-salen-chxn and Mn(III)-Cl-salen-chxn, respectively. Their stereochemical properties were explored through a combined experimental chiroptical spectroscopic and theoretical approach, with a focus on Co(II)-salen-chxn. Extensive conformational searches in CDCl3 for both high- and low-spin states were carried out and the associated infrared (IR), VCD, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra were simulated. A good agreement between experimental and simulated data was achieved for IR, VCD, UV-Vis, and ECD, except in the case of VCD of Co(II)-salen-chxn which exhibits significant intensity enhancement and monosignate VCD bands, attributed to the LLESs. Interestingly, detailed comparisons with Mn(III)-Cl-salen-chxn and previously reported Ni(II)-salen-chxn and Cu(II)-salen-chxn complexes suggest that the enhancement factor is predicted by the current density functional theory simulations. However, the monosignate signatures observed in the experimental Co(II) VCD spectrum were not captured theoretically. Based on the experiment and theoretical VCD and ECD comparison, it is tentatively suggested that Co(II)-salen-chxn exists in both low- and high-spin states, with the former being dominant, while Mn(III)-Cl-salen-chxn in the high-spin state. The study indicates that VCD enhancement by LLESs is at least partially captured by the existing theoretical simulation, while the symmetry consideration in vibronic coupling provides further insight into the mechanisms behind the VCD sign-flip.
Physico-Chemical Characterization of Amino Acid-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Bryant Saffron J. , Bryant Gary , Drummond Calum J. , Greaves Tamar L.
Published: February 2025

Deep eutectic solvents are an exciting class of designer solvents that are increasingly gaining popularity. Deep eutectic solvents based on amino acids are particularly interesting for biomedical applications due to their potential low toxicity. However, very few have been reported to date, and only one of these has been comprehensively studied, made from a combination of proline and glycerol. Here, we report for the first time a systematic investigation into amino acid-based deep eutectic solvents, with a particular focus on the structural features of amino acids that promote eutectic formation and their influence on viscosity, refractive index, surface tension and thermal behavior. Of the 22 amino acids (and related compounds) examined, only 3 (lysine, arginine and, as previously reported, proline) formed stable homogenous liquids in combination with glycerol or ethylene glycol. For these mixtures, it was found that the second component (glycerol or ethylene glycol) had a much more significant influence on the physical properties than the identity of the amino acid. Most significantly, it was found that far fewer amino acids readily formed deep eutectic solvents than has been generally assumed. This is the first work to systematically characterize deep eutectic solvents based on amino acids and, as such, paves the way for future biomedical applications of these solvents.
Antibiofilm Activities of Tritrpticin Analogs Against Pathogenic Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01 Strains
Authors: Ramamourthy Gopal , Ishida Hiroaki , Vogel Hans J.
Published: February 2025

In our previous work, we showed that short antimicrobial hexapeptides (AMPs) containing three Trp and three Arg residues had a potent antibiofilm activity against a pathogenic Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus MRSA strain. However, the activity of these hexapeptides against a Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01 strain was relatively poor. Herein, we tested the longer 13-residue synthetic AMP tritrpticin-NH2 (Tritrp) and several of its analogs as potential antibiofilm agents that can prevent biofilm formation (MBIC) and/or cause biofilm dissolution (MBEC) for two P. aeruginosa PA01 strains, one of which expressed the GFP protein. Tritrp, a porcine cathelicidin, is currently the only known naturally occurring cationic AMP that has three Trp in sequence (WWW), a feature that was found to be important in our previous study. Our results show that several Tritrp analogs were effective. In particular, analogs with Pro substitutions that had altered peptide backbone structures compared to the naturally occurring amphipathic two-turn structure showed more potent MBIC and MBEC antibiofilm activities. Selectivity of the peptides towards P. aeruginosa could be improved by introducing the non-proteinogenic amino acid 2,3-diaminopropionic acid, rather than Arg or Lys, as the positively charged residues. Using 1H NMR spectroscopy, we also reinvestigated the role of the two Pro residues in cis–trans isomerism of the peptide in aqueous solution. Overall, our results show that the WWW motif embedded in longer cationic AMPs has considerable potential to combat biofilm formation in pathogenic Gram-negative strains.
Nucleophilic Addition Reactions to 10-Acetonitrilium Derivative of nido-Carborane and Intramolecular NH⋯HB Interactions in N-Alkyl Amidines 10-RNHC(Me)=NH-7,8-C2B9H11
Authors: Pakholkov Kirill R. , Bogdanova Ekaterina V. , Stogniy Marina Yu. , Suponitsky Kyrill Yu. , Anufriev Sergey A. , Sivaev Igor B. , Bregadze Vladimir I.
Published: February 2025

The addition reactions of water, alcohols, and primary and secondary amines to the 10-acetonitrilium derivative of nido-carborane were studied. Hydrolysis of 10-MeC≡N-7,8-C2B9H11 results in iminol 10-MeC(OH)=HN-7,8-C2B9H11, which, on treatment with a base, gives amide [10-MeC(=O)HN-7,8-C2B9H11]−. The reactions of 10-MeC≡N-7,8-C2B9H11 with alcohols lead to imidates 10-ROC(Me)=HN-7,8-C2B9H11 (R = Me, Et) as mixtures of E- and Z-isomers. In the solid state, 10-MeOC(Me)=HN-7,8-C2B9H11 adopts E-configuration. The reactions of 10-MeC≡N-7,8-C2B9H11 with primary amines result in amidines 10-RNHC(Me)=HN-7,8-C2B9H11 (R = Me, Et) as mixtures of E- and Z-isomers. In the solid state 10-EtNHC(Me)=HN-7,8-C2B9H11 was found to have the Z-configuration, which is stabilized by intramolecular N-H⋯H-B interactions between the NH group originating from the primary amine and the BH group of the carborane cage. These interactions are rather strong (3.7 kcal/mol) and are likely to persist in solution. The reactions of 10-MeC≡N-7,8-C2B9H11 with secondary acyclic (Me2NH, Et2NH) and cyclic (piperidine, morpholine) amines result in amidines 10-R2NC(Me)=HN-7,8-C2B9H11 (R = Me, Et; R2 = N(CH2)5, N(CH2CH2)2O) as single isomers, which, according to single crystal X-ray diffraction data, have the E-configuration.
Characterization of Volatilized Compounds in Conventional and Organic Vegetable-Source Alternative Meat-Curing Ingredients
Authors: Sheng Siyuan , Silva Erin M. , Ricke Steven C. , Claus James R.
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the volatile compounds that contribute to the unique flavor and aroma profiles of cured meat products using alternative ingredients, specifically focusing on commercially available, conventional, and organically produced pre-converted celery (Apium graveolens) and Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima) juices and powders. Volatile compounds were isolated and analyzed using an optimized method involving steam distillation with liquid–liquid phase extraction coupled with gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The key volatile compound identified in celery was 3-butylisobenzofuran-1(3H)-one, and in Swiss chard, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol. In both conventional and organic celery juice, senkyunolide, sedanolide, and limonene were the primary volatiles, listed in descending order of concentration. This pioneering work on volatile and aromatic compounds in alternative curing ingredients provides foundational knowledge for sensory and volatile compound studies in alternative meat curing. It also offers valuable insights for organic plant and meat producers, processors, and consumers. Practically, this research highlights volatile chemicals that could interact with other meat constituents or residues in finished products, informing and enlightening future studies on the sensory and aromatic properties of alternative cured meats. Overall, this study contributes to the development of alternative cured meats, supporting the research and innovation of organic meats.
Healing Through Nutrition: Evaluating Dietary Support in Jordanian Hospitals
Authors: Alnimer Lana , Omoush Razan Mahmoud , Al-Shalabi Amjad , Jahrami Haitham , Amawi Adam T. , Ghazzawi Hadeel Ali
Published: February 2025

Background/Objective: Adequate nutrition is essential for patient recovery and overall health, yet hospital food services often fail to meet dietary guidelines. This study aimed to catch the gap between the dietary recommendation and the real intake. Methods: A total of 300 inpatients (100 per hospital type) were included in this cross-sectional study, which was conducted over two months. Nutritional intake was measured via weighed food records and actual intake was analyzed to calculate actual nutrient intake. Data were evaluated against dietary reference intakes (DRIs) and analyzed statistically via SPSS. One-way ANOVA and paired-sample t tests were used to identify significant differences between hospital categories and meal components. Results: The results revealed that private hospitals provided energy and macronutrient intakes closer to the recommended levels, with the total energy intake (2098.54 ± 97.33 kcal) exceeding the recommended level. Governmental and educational hospitals fell short, providing 1118.59 ± 68.21 kcal and 1285.91 ± 78.42 kcal, respectively. All hospital types served inadequate fiber, but private hospitals (23.18 ± 1.14 g) were closer to the recommendations. Micronutrient deficiencies were prevalent, particularly for vitamin D, vitamin E, and iron, across all hospital types. Conclusions: Nutritional intake varies significantly across Jordanian hospital categories, with private hospitals performing better than governmental and educational facilities do. Addressing these disparities through enhanced meal planning and monitoring is essential to improve patient health outcomes and reduce the risk of malnutrition.
Discovering Vitamin-D-Deficiency-Associated Factors in Korean Adults Using KNHANES Data Based on an Integrated Analysis of Machine Learning and Statistical Techniques
Authors: Ahn Hongryul , Kim Seungwon , Jung Jinmyung , Park Chan
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is a global health concern associated with metabolic disease and immune dysfunction. Despite known risk factors like limited sun exposure, diet, and lifestyle, few studies have explored these factors comprehensively on a large scale. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify VDD-associated factors in South Korea via an integrative approach of machine learning and statistical analyses using Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) IX-1 data. Methods: Using the KNHANES dataset, six machine learning algorithms were applied to evaluate VDD (serum 25[OH]D3 < 20 ng/mL)-associated factors through feature importance scores. Thereafter, multivariate linear and logistic regression models were applied to the dataset—stratified by sex and age. Results: Among 583 variables, 17 VDD-associated factors were identified using the CatBoost model, which achieved the highest F1 score. When these factors were assessed through statistical analysis, dietary supplement use emerged as a consistent factor associated with VDD across all subgroups (younger men, younger women, older men, and older women). In younger adults, HDL cholesterol, blood and urinary creatinine, water intake, urban residence, and breakfast frequency were significantly associated with VDD. Additionally, blood urea nitrogen and fasting plasma glucose in men and urinary sodium in women showed sex-specific associations with serum 25(OH)D levels. Conclusions: This study identified key VDD-associated factors in the South Korean population, which varied by age or sex. These findings highlight the multifaceted nature of VDD, influenced by dietary, lifestyle, and biochemical factors and underscore the need for strategies integrating machine learning and statistical analysis.
Sequence of Eating at Japanese-Style Set Meals Improves Postprandial Glycemic Elevation in Healthy People
Authors: Kurotobi Yuri , Kuwata Hitoshi , Matsushiro Mari , Omori Yasuhiro , Imura Masahiro , Nakatani Susumu , Matsubara Miho , Haraguchi Takuya , Moyama Shota , Hamamoto Yoshiyuki , Yamada Yuichiro , Seino Yutaka , Yamazaki Yuji
Published: February 2025

Background: The meal sequencing of macronutrients has been shown to ameliorate postprandial glucose excursion, but its effects in daily meals has not been investigated. We examined the impact on the glucose response to meal sequencing in healthy Japanese adults using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) during a typical lunch meal. Methods: The test meal was a Japanese set meal or a beef and rice bowl, the contents of which were categorized as “rice” or “non-rice”. In the meal experiments, the subjects ingested the two categories of food in one of three orders: non-rice before rice, non-rice and rice together, and non-rice after rice. In the beef and rice bowl experiments, the subjects ingested either non-rice 15 min before rice or the two foods together. Results: The postprandial glucose level was measured over a 4 h period and the mean level of postprandial glucose was significantly lower than that when eating rice before non-rice or both together. Consuming non-rice before rice significantly reduced postprandial glycemic excursions in healthy adults in both experiments. Conclusions: Meal-sequencing by “eat carbs last” is a feasible dietary strategy for the better prevention and management of diabetes.
Attitudes and Behaviors of Nurses and Nursing Students Toward Patients with Obesity: A Systematized Review
Authors: Arvelo-Rodríguez Yaiza-María , Marrero-González Cristo-Manuel , García-Hernández Alfonso-Miguel
Published: February 2025

Background: The prevalence of people with obesity is increasing worldwide, facing challenges in terms of discrimination and prejudice across all settings, including healthcare. Objective: The objective of this review is to compare and synthesize recent scientific literature regarding nurses’ behaviors and attitudes toward patients with obesity. Methods: A systematized methodology was employed, conducting a literature search of studies published in the bibliographic resources (Academic Search Complete, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science, and Scopus from 2018 to 2023); using specific terms combined with the Boolean operators, AND and OR. Inclusion criteria: Quantitative, qualitative, or mixed research conducted on nurses and/or nursing students in a context focused on the care of adult patients with obesity. Critical appraisal tools from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) were used to evaluate the included studies, and their level of evidence was also determined. Results: Initially, the search yielded 166 articles, of which 14 were included in this review. The results found focused on the use of scales and tools heterogeneous to each other. The findings can be categorized into two main areas: studies investigating interventions aimed at reducing negative behaviors related to weight bias and prejudice, and studies focusing on assessing these attitudes. The evidence points in a consistent direction: nurses exhibit negative attitudes toward patients with obesity. Conclusions: The need for multilevel strategies, from clinical to academic training, to address this challenge is highlighted, alongside the development of research that complements the current evidence with a deeper and more detailed understanding of this phenomenon.
Design of a Tunable Metamaterial Absorption Device with an Absorption Band Covering the Mid-Infrared Atmospheric Window
Authors: He Zongliang , Fang Dong , Yi Yougen
Published: February 2025

We propose a highly efficient broadband tunable metamaterial infrared absorption device. The design is modeled using the three-dimensional finite element method for the absorption device. The results show that the absorption device captures over 90% of the light in the wavelength range from 6.10 μm to 17.42 μm. We utilize VO2’s phase change property to adjust the absorption device, allowing the average absorption level to vary between 20.61% and 94.88%. In this study, we analyze the electromagnetic field distribution of the absorption device at its peak absorption point and find that the high absorption is achieved through both surface plasmon resonance and Fabry–Perot cavity resonance. The structural parameters of the absorption device are fine-tuned through parameter scanning. By comparing our work with previous studies, we demonstrate the superior performance of our design. Additionally, we investigate the polarization angle and incident angle of the absorption device and show that it is highly insensitive to these factors. Importantly, the simple structure of our absorption device broadens its potential uses in photodetection, electromagnetic stealth, and sensing.
Microbial Allies or Adversaries? The Genotype-Dependent Impact of Inoculation on Silver Birch
Authors: Striganavičiūtė Greta , Vaitiekūnaitė Dorotėja , Šilanskienė Milana , Sirgedaitė-Šėžienė Vaida
Published: February 2025

Microbial inoculation plays a crucial role in shaping plant physiological and biochemical responses, influencing growth, secondary metabolism, and stress-related markers. This study investigates the effects of PAH-degrading microorganisms (Pseudomonas putida, Sphingobium yanoikuyae, and Rhodotorula sphaerocarpa) on the growth, secondary metabolism, photosynthetic pigment, and stress-related biochemical markers of silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) seedlings from two half-sib families grown hydroponically. Results demonstrate family-dependent variations in the response to microbial treatments. In family 73, the growth of both shoots and roots was inhibited by certain microbial treatments, along with a decrease in key biochemical markers such as phenolic content and carotenoids. Conversely, family 86 showed no growth inhibition and exhibited improvements in some biochemical markers, including flavonoids and chlorophyll. Stress indicators, such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and soluble sugars, displayed contrasting patterns between families, with increased MDA observed in family 73 under certain microbial treatments. In contrast, family 86 did not exhibit an increase in MDA, suggesting differences in stress mitigation. Soluble sugars were generally reduced in family 73. Antioxidant enzyme activity further highlighted these family-specific responses, with variations in enzymes like ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and guaiacol peroxidase (POX) across treatments. Notably, significant interactions between family and microbial treatments were observed for several oxidative stress enzymes, underscoring the role of genotype in shaping the response to microbial stress. These findings highlight the genotype-dependent interactions between microbial inoculation and plant secondary metabolism, providing insights into the role of specifically selected microbial inoculation in stress mitigation and growth regulation.
Development of Curcumin-Loaded TiO2-Reinforced Chitosan Monofilaments for Biocompatible Surgical Sutures
Authors: Demirci Fatma
Published: February 2025

Sutures provide mechanical support for wound closure after various traumas and surgical operations. Absorbable sutures are increasingly favored as they eliminate the need for secondary procedures and minimize additional damage to the wound site. In this study, chitosan sutures were produced using the dry jet–wet spinning method, achieving number 7-0 sutures (approximately 76 μm diameter) with a homogeneous surface. FTIR analysis demonstrated molecular interactions between chitosan and TiO2 or curcumin, confirming successful incorporation. The addition of 3% TiO2 increased the tensile strength of chitosan sutures by 12.32%, reaching 189.41 MPa. Morphological analysis revealed smooth surfaces free of pores and bubbles, confirming the production of high-quality sutures. Radical scavenging activity analysis showed that curcumin-loaded sutures exhibited 43% scavenging ability after 125 h, which was significantly higher compared to pure chitosan sutures. In vitro antibacterial tests demonstrated that curcumin-loaded sutures provided 98.87% bacterial inactivation against S. aureus within 24 h. Additionally, curcumin release analysis showed a cumulative release of 77% over 25 h. The bioactivity of the sutures was verified by hydroxyapatite layer formation after incubation in simulated body fluid, supporting their potential for tissue regeneration. These findings demonstrate that TiO2 reinforcement and curcumin loading significantly enhance the functional properties of chitosan sutures, making them strong candidates for biocompatible and absorbable surgical applications.
Mapping the Conceptual Structure of University–Industry Knowledge Transfer: A Co-Word Analysis
Authors: Ballesteros-Ballesteros Vladimir Alfonso , Zárate-Torres Rodrigo Arturo
Published: February 2025

University–industry (U–I) collaborations are widely recognized as key drivers of economic progress, innovation, and competitiveness, fostering significant scholarly interest. Concurrently, research findings on these interactions have contributed to the establishment of an interdisciplinary field marked by the inherent complexity of these relationships. This study aims to map the conceptual structure of university–industry knowledge transfer (UIKT) research from 1980 to 2023 by employing co-word analysis and social network analysis based on data retrieved from the Scopus database. The results reveal that 1577 documents were published during this period, incorporating 147 keywords, with the five most frequent being “innovation”, “higher education”, “university”, “technology transfer”, and “knowledge management”. The United Kingdom was identified as the most prolific country, contributing 366 documents, while Research Policy emerged as the most cited journal, with 3546 citations. This study offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of UIKT research, paving the way for future studies and providing valuable directions for further investigations.
Robust Beamforming for Frequency Diverse Array Multiple-Input Multiple-Output Radar: Mitigating Steering Vector Mismatches and Suppressing Main Lobe Interference
Authors: Tan Yumei , Li Yong , Cheng Wei , Dong Limeng , Geng Langhuan , Akhtar Muhammad Moin
Published: February 2025

Frequency Diverse Array Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (FDA-MIMO) radar introduces range-dependent beamforming capabilities, enhancing its ability to differentiate true targets from main lobe jammers. However, this innovation also introduces new challenges, particularly when errors disrupt the transceiver steering vectors, leading to performance degradation in main lobe interference suppression. To this end, a robust beamforming method tailored for FDA-MIMO radar systems is proposed to address signal mismatches caused by range–angle errors, array element position errors, frequency offsets, and coherent local scattering. Initially, a logarithmic function is used to decouple range and angle, enabling the design of a stable beampattern. The desired steering vector is then computed by addressing an optimization problem that leverages the interference-plus-noise covariance matrix alongside the signal-plus-noise covariance matrix. This estimation process, combined with mismatch correction through the diagonal loading method, significantly stabilizes the covariance matrix and enhances the robustness of FDA-MIMO systems. Extensive simulations validate the proposed approach across various error scenarios specific to FDA-MIMO radars, demonstrating superior robustness in main lobe interference suppression. These findings contribute to advancing robust beamforming techniques for FDA-MIMO radar systems, paving the way for enhanced performance in complex and error-prone environments.
New Paradigms for Geomorphological Mapping: A Multi-Source Approach for Landscape Characterization
Authors: Cignetti Martina , Godone Danilo , Ferrari Trecate Daniele , Baldo Marco
Published: February 2025

The advent of geomatic techniques and novel sensors has opened the road to new approaches in mapping, including morphological ones. The evolution of a land portion and its graphical representation constitutes a fundamental aspect for scientific and land planning purposes. In this context, new paradigms for geomorphological mapping, which are useful for modernizing traditional, geomorphological mapping, become necessary for the creation of scalable digital representation of processes and landforms. A fully remote mapping approach, based on multi-source and multi-sensor applications, was implemented for the recognition of landforms and processes. This methodology was applied to a study site located in central Italy, characterized by the presence of ‘calanchi’ (i.e., badlands). Considering primarily the increasing availability of regional LiDAR products, an automated landform classification, i.e., Geomorphons, was adopted to map landforms at the slope scale. Simultaneously, by collecting and digitizing a time-series of historical orthoimages, a multi-temporal analysis was performed. Finally, surveying the area with an unmanned aerial vehicle, exploiting the high-resolution digital terrain model and orthoimage, a local-scale geomorphological map was produced. The proposed approach has proven to be well capable of identifying the variety of processes acting on the pilot area, identifying various genetic types of geomorphic processes with a nested hierarchy, where runoff-associated landforms coexist with gravitational ones. Large ancient mass movement characterizes the upper part of the basin, forming deep-seated gravity deformation, highly remodeled by a set of widespread runoff features forming rills, gullies, and secondary shallow landslides. The extended badlands areas imposed on Plio-Pleistocene clays are typically affected by sheet wash and rill and gully erosion causing high potential of sediment loss and the occurrence of earth- and mudflows, often interfering and affecting agricultural areas and anthropic elements. This approach guarantees a multi-scale and multi-temporal cartographic model for a full-coverage representation of landforms, representing a useful tool for land planning purposes.
Low-Cost, LiDAR-Based, Dynamic, Flood Risk Communication Viewer
Authors: Laefer Debra F. , O’Keeffe Evan , Chandna Kshitij , Hertz Kim , Zhu Jing , Lejano Raul , Vo Anh Vu , Bertolotto Michela , Ofterdinger Ulrich
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a flood risk visualization method that is (1) readily transferable (2) hyperlocal, (3) computationally inexpensive, and (4) geometrically accurate. This proposal is for risk communication, to provide high-resolution, three-dimensional flood visualization at the sub-meter level. The method couples a laser scanning point cloud with algorithms that produce textured floodwaters, achieved through compounding multiple sine functions in a graphics shader. This hyper-local approach to visualization is enhanced by the ability to portray changes in (i) watercolor, (ii) texture, and (iii) motion (including dynamic heights) for various flood prediction scenarios. Through decoupling physics-based predictions from the visualization, a dynamic, flood risk viewer was produced with modest processing resources involving only a single, quad-core processor with a frequency around 4.30 GHz and with no graphics card. The system offers several major advantages. (1) The approach enables its use on a browser or with inexpensive, virtual reality hardware and, thus, promotes local dissemination for flood risk communication, planning, and mitigation. (2) The approach can be used for any scenario where water interfaces with the built environment, including inside of pipes. (3) When tested for a coastal inundation scenario from a hurricane, 92% of the neighborhood participants found it to be more effective in communicating flood risk than traditional 2D mapping flood warnings provided by governmental authorities.
Building Lightweight 3D Indoor Models from Point Clouds with Enhanced Scene Understanding
Authors: Li Minglei , Li Mingfan , Li Min , Xu Leheng
Published: February 2025

Indoor scenes often contain complex layouts and interactions between objects, making 3D modeling of point clouds inherently difficult. In this paper, we design a divide-and-conquer modeling method considering the structural differences between indoor walls and internal objects. To achieve semantic understanding, we propose an effective 3D instance segmentation module using a deep network Indoor3DNet combined with super-point clustering, which provides a larger receptive field and maintains the continuity of individual objects. The Indoor3DNet includes an efficient point feature extraction backbone with good operability for different object granularity. In addition, we use a geometric primitives-based modeling approach to generate lightweight polygonal facets for walls and use a cross-modal registration technique to fit the corresponding instance models for internal objects based on their semantic labels. This modeling method can restore correct geometric shapes and topological relationships while maintaining a very lightweight structure. We have tested the method on diverse datasets, and the experimental results demonstrate that the method outperforms the state-of-the-art in terms of performance and robustness.
Influence of Roughness Digitisation Error on Predictions of Discontinuity Shear Strength
Authors: Butcher Clarence , Buzzi Olivier , Giacomini Anna , Bertuzzi Robert , Griffiths D. V.
Published: February 2025

A key component of the new stochastic approach for discontinuity shear strength (referred to as StADSS) is characterising the roughness of natural rock discontinuities at full scale to mitigate well-known scale effects on shear strength predictions. An investigation was conducted using the software Blender (v4.0) to determine the influence of camera orientation and position on the estimation of the standard deviation of gradients, a parameter used to quantify roughness and to make predictions of discontinuity shear strength. The existing literature has investigated the various distortions of images due to camera position and orientation; however, a comprehensive understanding of their unique influence on error in shear strength prediction is still missing. The investigation revealed that a ground sampling distance of less than 1.36 mm/pixel allows the standard deviation of gradients to be quantified within approximately ±10% relative error to the control data set. Based on investigations into camera orientation relative to the planar control data set, error on the roughness parameter due to perspective distortion was quantified. Recommendations were made to reduce perspective distortions and improve seed trace digitisation errors, including capturing images perpendicular to the seed trace with no rotation and getting as close as possible to the trace during capture to improve ground sampling distance. Lastly, the influence of these different trace digitisation errors on predictions of shear strength obtained using StADSS was investigated. Digitisation errors were found to have a disproportionate influence on shear strength prediction error, especially for rough discontinuities at low normal stress. The investigation highlighted the importance of accurately digitising the standard deviation of gradients to predict discontinuity shear strength.
A Continuous B2b-PPP Model Considering Interruptions in BDS-3 B2b Orbits and Clock Corrections as Well as Signal-in-Space Range Error Residuals
Authors: Shang Rui , Xu Zhenhao , Gao Chengfa , Meng Xiaolin , Gao Wang , Liu Qi
Published: February 2025

In 2020, BDS-3 began broadcasting high-precision positioning correction products through B2b signals, effectively addressing the limitations of ground-based augmentation. However, challenges such as the “south wall effect” from geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites, issues of data (IOD) mismatch, and signal priority conflicts often result in interruptions and anomalies during real-time positioning with the B2b service. This paper proposes a continuous B2b-PPP (B2b signal-based Precise Point Positioning) model that incorporates signal-in-space range error (SISRE) residuals and predictions for B2b orbits and clock corrections to achieve seamless, high-precision continuous positioning. In our experiments, we first analyze the characteristics of B2b SISRE for both BDS-3 and GPS. We then evaluate the positioning accuracy of several models, B2b-PPP, EB2b-PPP, PB2b-PPP, EB2bS-PPP, and PB2bS-PPP, through simulated and real dynamic experiments. Here, ‘E’ indicates the direct utilization of the previous observation corrections from B2b before the signal interruption, ‘P’ represents B2b prediction products, and ‘S’ signifies the incorporation of the SISRE residuals. The results show that EB2b-PPP exhibits significant deviations as early as 10 min into a B2b signal interruption. Both PB2b-PPP and EB2bS-PPP demonstrate comparable performances, with PB2bS-PPP emerging as the most effective method. Notably, in real dynamic experiments, PB2bS-PPP maintains positioning accuracy in the E/N directions like B2b-PPP, even after 40 min of signal interruption, ensuring continuous and stable positioning upon signal restoration. This achievement significantly enhances the capability for high-precision continuous positioning based on B2b signals.
A Survey on Directed Acyclic Graph-Based Blockchain in Smart Mobility
Authors: Bai Yuhao , Lee Soojin , Seo Seung-Hyun
Published: February 2025

This systematic review examines the integration of directed acyclic graph (DAG)-based blockchain technology in smart mobility ecosystems, focusing on electric vehicles (EVs), robotic systems, and drone swarms. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive literature search across Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ACM Digital Library, screening 1248 records to identify 47 eligible studies. Our analysis demonstrates that DAG-based blockchain addresses critical limitations of traditional blockchains by enabling parallel transaction processing, achieving high throughput (>1000 TPS), and reducing latency (<1 s), which are essential for real-time applications like autonomous vehicle coordination and microtransactions in EV charging. Key technical challenges include consensus mechanism complexity, probabilistic finality, and vulnerabilities to attacks such as double-spending and Sybil attacks. This study identifies five research priorities: (1) standardized performance benchmarks, (2) formal security proofs for DAG protocols, (3) hybrid consensus models combining DAG with Byzantine fault tolerance, (4) privacy-preserving cryptographic techniques, and (5) optimization of feeless microtransactions. These advancements are critical for deploying robust, scalable DAG-based solutions in smart mobility, and fostering secure and efficient urban transportation networks.