bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contamination Profiles of Selected Pollutants in Procambarus clarkii Non-Edible Portions Highlight Their Potential Exploitation Applications
Authors: Savoca Dario , Vazzana Mirella , Arizza Vincenzo , Maccotta Antonella , Orecchio Santino , Longo Francesco , Giudice Vittoria , D’Oca Gaetano , Messina Salvatore , Marrone Federico , Mauro Manuela
Published: July 2024

Properly managing aquatic organisms is crucial, including protecting endemic species and controlling invasive species. From a circular economy perspective, the sustainable use of aquatic species as a source of bioactive molecules is an area that is increasingly being explored. This includes the use of non-edible portions of seafood, which could pose considerable risks to the environment due to current methods of disposal. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to ensure that the exploitation of these resources does not result in the transfer of pollutants to the final product. This study analyzed two types of non-edible parts from the crayfish Procambarus clarkii: the abdominal portion of the exoskeleton (AbE) and the whole exoskeleton (WE), including the cephalothorax. These portions could potentially be utilized in the context of eradication activities regulated by local authorities. A screening analysis of four classes of pollutants, including pesticides, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), phthalic acid esters (PAEs), and trace elements (TEs), was performed. The only analytes detected were TEs, and significant differences in the contamination profile were found between AbE and WE. Nevertheless, the levels recorded were comparable to or lower than those reported in the literature and below the maximum levels allowed in the current European legislation for food, suggesting that their potential use is legally permitted. In terms of scalability, the utilization of the entire non-edible P. clarkii portion would represent a sustainable solution for the reuse of waste products.
The cGAS/STING Pathway—A New Potential Biotherapeutic Target for Gastric Cancer?
Authors: Tian Mengxiang , Zhang Shuai , Tan Fengbo
Published: July 2024

Gastric cancer ranks among the top five deadliest tumors worldwide, both in terms of prevalence and mortality rates. Despite mainstream treatments, the efficacy in treating gastric cancer remains suboptimal, underscoring the urgency for novel therapeutic approaches. The elucidation of tumor immunosuppressive microenvironments has shifted focus towards cancer biotherapeutics, which leverage the patient’s immune system or biologics to target tumor cells. Biotherapy has emerged as a promising alternative for tumors resistant to traditional chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Central to this paradigm is the cGAS-STING pathway, a pivotal component of the innate immune system. This pathway recognizes aberrant DNA, such as that from viral infections or tumor cells, and triggers an immune response, thereby reshaping the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment into an immune-stimulating milieu. In the context of gastric cancer, harnessing the cGAS-STING pathway holds significant potential for biotherapeutic interventions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on cGAS-STING in gastric cancer, including insights from clinical trials involving STING agonists. Furthermore, it assesses the prospects of targeting the cGAS-STING pathway as a novel biotherapeutic strategy for gastric cancer.
Spatial Differentiation and Environmental Controls of Land Consolidation Effectiveness: A Remote Sensing-Based Study in Sichuan, China
Authors: Bao Jinhao , Xu Sucheng , Xiao Wu , Wu Jiang , Tang Tie , Zhang Heyu
Published: July 2024

The increasing global population is leading to a decline in cropland per person, aggravating food security challenges. The global implementation of land consolidation (LC) has created new farmland and increased productivity. LC is a critical strategy in China for ensuring food security and gaining significant government support. This article investigates the impact of LC on farmland productivity in Sichuan Province in 2020. We utilize time series remote sensing data to analyze LC’s impact on farmland capacity. This study uses Sentinel and Landsat satellite data to calculate CumVI and assesses the LC project’s spatiotemporal evolution. To evaluate LC’s effectiveness, we create indexes for yield level and stability and employ Getis-Ord Gi* to identify spatial differentiation in LC’s impact. GeoDetector and GWR examine the impact of natural factors like elevation, slope, soil organic carbon, and rainfall on the effectiveness of LC. The research results show that: (1) After the implementation of LC, 55.51% of the project areas experienced significant improvements in agricultural productivity; the average increase rate of yield level is 7.74%; and the average increase rate of yield stability is 12.40%. Overall, LC is significant for improving farmland capacity. (2) The effectiveness of LC exhibits spatial differences and correlations in different areas. The main location for high-value agglomeration of yield levels is Nanchong City, while the northern part of Guangyuan City primarily hosts low-value agglomeration areas. (3) Natural conditions influence LC’s effectiveness. In terms of affecting the yield level of LC, the driving factors from high to low are SOC, elevation, slope, and rainfall. In terms of affecting the yield stability of LC, the driving factors, from high to low, are elevation, SOC, slope, and rainfall. LC’s effectiveness is influenced by different natural conditions that have different effects.
Evolution and Drivers of Production Patterns of Major Crops in Jilin Province, China
Authors: Ma Chaofan , Wang Lingzhi , Chen Yangfan , Wu Junjie , Liang Anqi , Li Xinyao , Jiang Chengge , Omrani Hichem
Published: July 2024

Exploring the evolution of the production patterns of major crops and their driving factors can provide new ideas to ensure the security of supply of important agricultural products. This study selected four major crop types in Jilin Province—grain, oil crop, vegetable, and fruit—as research subjects. Using the center of gravity migration model, spatial autocorrelation analysis, and comparative advantage index, the spatial and temporal evolution of these crops’ production patterns from 2000 to 2020 was examined. A geographically weighted regression model was employed to analyze driving factors. The results showed that the planting area of grain was the most extensive; the percentage of production of grain, oil crop, and fruit increased to different degrees; the unit area yield of the four crops increased. The centers of gravity of all four crops’ productions were located in the central-northwestern region of Jilin Province. The global Moran’s I was positive for all four crops’ productions. The comparative advantage characteristics of the four crops were closely related to the natural geographical environment. Grain, vegetable, and fruit production were significantly and positively correlated with fertilizer application, and the most significant factor affecting oil crop production was land input intensity.
Decoupling Characteristics between Coupling Coordination Degree of Production-Living-Ecological Function and Carbon Emissions in the Urban Agglomeration of the Shandong Peninsula
Authors: Tian Cong
Published: July 2024

Under the dual carbon goals, the relationship between land production-living-ecological function and carbon emissions points to a new direction for land spatial planning. This study compiles and analyzes carbon emissions and the production-living-ecological function coupling coordination degree of 16 cities in the Shandong Peninsula urban agglomeration for the years 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021. Furthermore, it introduces the Tapio decoupling model to calculate the decoupling index between carbon emissions and the coupling coordination degree. The spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of production-living-ecological function coupling coordination, carbon emissions, and the decoupling index were analyzed. The results indicate that (1) from 2001 to 2021, the production-living-ecological function coupling coordination degree in Shandong Peninsula urban agglomeration increased overall, with an obvious “high in the east and low in the west” feature in the spatial pattern. That is caused by the difference in resource endowment between the east and the west and the gap in the process of urbanization, industrial structure transformation, and ecological governance. (2) During the study period, overall carbon emissions increased, with a significantly reduced growth rate. A polarization phenomenon of increase and decrease trends within the urban agglomeration was observed. The spatial distribution characteristics of land use carbon emissions showed significant production-living-ecological coupling coordination degree heterotropism. (3) From 2001 to 2021, the decoupling relationship between production-living-ecological coupling coordination degree and carbon emissions mainly exhibited three patterns: strong negative decoupling, expansion negative decoupling, and strong decoupling, maintaining a good decoupling trend overall. These results indicate that the coordinated development level of production, living, and ecological functions in the study area has improved during the research period, and its decoupling relationship with carbon emissions has also shown a positive trend. However, there is still a problem of uneven regional development. In the future, the production-living-ecological development of Shandong Peninsula urban agglomeration should adhere to the development pattern of “two circles and four regions”, which aims to promote resource sharing and complementary advantages through specific regional divisions, and achieve coordinated development within the region. This involves optimizing land use structure and function, encouraging innovation and development of green industries, and deepening ecological environment restoration and protection to realize the coordinated development of the production-living-ecological function of land use under the dual carbon goal.
Aerial Remote Sensing Archaeology—A Short Review and Applications
Authors: Kaimaris Dimitris
Published: July 2024

Aerial and remote sensing archaeology are tools for identifying marks on images of archaeological remains covered by soil. In other words, they are archaeological prospection tools that fall into the category of non-destructive research methods. In this paper, a short review of these valuable research tools is carried out, presenting the way marks appear, and also the categories of aerial and remote sensing archaeology, depending on the medium of storage of images and the type of platform of transfer of sensors. The timing of the emergence of each category is determined and examples of relevant surveys are presented. Focusing on the use of an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) with a multispectral sensor (aerial remote sensing archaeology), their partial utilization is revealed for collecting images in areas outside of the visible spectrum, aiming at the identification of covered archaeological remains. To this end, examples of the use of UAS with different sensors are presented and indexes that have been used so far in respective applications are gathered. Aerial remote sensing archaeology took place in two areas of particular interest in Northern Greece. UAS WingtraOne GEN II was used to collect multispectral images. In both study areas, soil and vegetation or crop marks were detected, possibly covered archaeological remains, initially in RGB orthophotomosaics and then more clearly in the index maps, such as the normalized difference vegetation index, simple ratio, brightness index, second brightness index, and anthocyanin reflectance index 2b.
Analyzing Spatial Distribution and Influencing Factors of Soil Organic Matter in Cultivated Land of Northeast China: Implications for Black Soil Protection
Authors: Kong Depiao , Chu Nanchen , Luo Chong , Liu Huanjun
Published: July 2024

Soil organic matter (SOM) in cultivated land is vital for land quality and food security. This study examines SOM distribution and influencing factors in northeastern China, providing insights for sustainable agriculture. Utilizing 10 m resolution SOM data, the analysis covers regions including the Greater and Lesser Khingan Mountains, Liaohe Plain, Sanjiang Plain, Songnen Plain, the northwest semi-arid region, and the low hilly areas of Paektu Mountain. The Geodetector method is employed to assess various influencing factors. The key findings are as follows: (1) The average SOM content in Northeast China (37.70 g/kg) surpasses the national average, is highest in the Greater and Lesser Khingan Mountains (49.32 g/kg), and lowest in the northwest semi-arid region (26.15 g/kg). (2) SOM content is maximized in regions with high altitudes, steep slopes, low temperatures, and moderate precipitation. (3) The annual average temperature is the primary factor influencing SOM distribution, with a combination of temperature and administrative divisions providing better explanatory power. (4) SOM trends vary across protected areas, with slope being critical in semi-humid plains, elevation in arid regions, and no dominant factors identified in the Sanjiang Plain. These findings underscore the need for tailored black soil protection policies to effectively leverage local resources and preserve ecosystem integrity.
Assessment of Soil Temperature and Its Change Trends in the Permafrost Regions of the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Wu Yifan , Hu Guojie , Zhao Lin , Zou Defu , Zhu Xiaofan , Xiao Yao , Wu Tonghua , Wu Xiaodong , Su Youqi , Zhang Rui
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we used data from 42 soil temperature observation sites in permafrost regions throughout the Northern Hemisphere to analyze the characteristics and variability in soil temperature. The observation data were used to evaluate soil temperature simulations at different depths from 10 CMIP6 models in the permafrost region of the Northern Hemisphere. The results showed that the annual average soil temperature in the permafrost regions in the Northern Hemisphere gradually decreased with increasing latitude, and the soil temperature gradually decreased with depth. The average soil temperatures at different depths were mainly concentrated around 0 °C. The 10 CMIP6 models performed well in simulating soil temperature, but most models tended to underestimate temperatures compared to the measured values. Overall, the CESM2 model yielded the best simulation results, whereas the CNRM-CM6-1 model performed the worst. The change trends in annual average soil temperature across the 42 sites ranged from −0.17 °C/10a to 0.41 °C/10a from 1900 to 2014, the closer to the Arctic, the faster the soil warming rate. The rate of soil temperature change also varied at different depths between 1900–2014 and 1980–2014. The rate of soil temperature change from 1980 to 2014 was approximately three times greater than that from 1900 to 2014.
Pilot Study of Home-Based Virtual Reality Fitness Training in Post-Discharge Rehabilitation for Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomized Double-Blind Multicenter Trial
Authors: Kang Dongheon , Eun Seon-Deok , Park Jiyoung
Published: July 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) patients require continuous rehabilitation post-discharge to ensure optimal recovery. This study investigates the effectiveness of home-based virtual reality fitness training (VRFT) as a convenient and accessible rehabilitation method for SCI patients. This randomized, double-blind, multicenter trial will enroll 120 participants, assigning them to either an 8-week VRFT program (exercise group) or a control group engaging in regular daily activities. The outcomes measured include muscle function, cardiopulmonary fitness, body composition, and physical performance. Our study will determine the safety and feasibility of VRFT in a home setting for SCI patients and evaluate whether these patients can effectively participate in such a program post-discharge. The results of this study are expected to inform future exercise protocols for SCI rehabilitation, offering valuable insights into the utility of VRFT as a therapeutic tool.
A Simulation Study on Sieving as a Powder Deposition Method in Powder Bed Fusion Processes
Authors: Avrampos Panagiotis , Vosniakos George-Christopher
Published: July 2024

Powder deposition of even and homogeneous layers is a major aspect of every powder bed fusion process. Powder sieving is commonly performed to powder batches outside of the PBF machine, prior to the part manufacturing stage. In this work, sieving is examined as a method of powder deposition rather than a method to solely filter out agglomerates and oversized particles. Initially, a DEM powder model that has been validated experimentally is implemented, and the sieving process is modelled. The sieving process is optimized in order to maximize mass flow, duration of its linear stage and total mass sieved during linearity. For this, a Taguchi design of experiments with subsequent analysis of variance is deployed, proving that the larger the initial powder loaded in the sieve, the larger the sieve stimulation necessary, both in terms of oscillating frequency and amplitude. The sieve’s aperture shape is also evaluated, proving that the more sides the canonical polygon has, the less the mass flow per aperture for the same maximum passing particle size. Then, the quality of the layer produced via controlled sieving is examined via certain layer quality criteria, such as the surface roughness, layer thickness deviation, surface coverage ratio and packing density. The findings prove that controlled sieving can outperform powder deposition via a non-vibrated doctor blade recoater, both in terms of layer surface quality and duration of layer deposition, as proven by surface skewness and kurtosis evaluation.
An Optimized Approach to Multistage Permanent Deformation Testing of Granular Materials
Authors: Pérez-González Erdrick , Bilodeau Jean-Pascal
Published: July 2024

Accurately characterizing permanent deformation in granular materials subjected to cyclic loading is crucial for pavement design. This paper introduces an alternative approach to characterizing permanent deformation in a framework that reduces the number of load cycle repetitions by applying an alternative analytical strategy based on plastic strain rate variation over time. The methodology uses a cycle-hardening approach to establish correlations between short-term (post-compaction) and long-term (shakedown state) plastic strain accumulation. This alternative approach provides an efficient means to accelerate the characterization of permanent deformation, ensuring the integrity and validity of the assessment in a more time-efficient and resource-optimized way.
Are Critical Fluctuations Responsible for Glass Formation?
Authors: Starzonek Szymon , Łoś Joanna , Rzoska Sylwester J. , Drozd-Rzoska Aleksandra , Iglič Aleš
Published: July 2024

The dynamic heterogeneities occurring just before the transition to the glassy phase have been named as the cause of amorphization in supercooled systems. Numerous studies conducted so far have confirmed this hypothesis, and based on it, a widely accepted solution to the puzzle of glass transition has been developed. This report focuses on verifying the existence of a strong pretransitional anomaly near the glass transition Tg. For this purpose, supercooled liquid-crystalline systems with a strong rod-like structure were selected. Based on the obtained experimental data, we demonstrate in this article that the previously postulated dynamic heterogeneities exhibit a critical characteristic, meaning a strong pretransitional anomaly can be observed with the described critical exponent α=0.5. Due to this property, it can be concluded that these heterogeneities are critical fluctuations, and consequently, the transition to the glassy state can be described based on the theory of critical phenomena. To measure the pretransitional anomaly near Tg in supercooled liquid-crystalline systems, broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) and nonlinear dielectric effect (NDE) methods were applied. The exponent α provides insight into the nature and intensity of critical fluctuations in the system. A value of α=0.5 suggests that the fluctuations become increasingly intense as the system approaches the critical point, contributing to the divergence in specific heat. Understanding the role of critical fluctuations in the glass transition is crucial for innovating and improving a wide range of materials for energy storage, materials design, biomedical applications, food preservation, and environmental sustainability. These advancements can lead to materials with superior properties, optimized manufacturing processes, and applications that meet the demands of modern technology and sustainability challenges.
Determining the Size of Representative Volume Elements for a Two-Dimensional Random Aggregate Numerical Model of Asphalt Mortar without Damage
Authors: Liang Sheng , Tao Jing , Zhao Xiaoming , Liu Zhong , Zhang Derun , Tu Chongzhi
Published: July 2024

The size of the representative volume element (RVE) for the two-dimensional (2D) random aggregate numerical model of asphalt mortar in a non-destructive state, which directly affects the time required to simulate the linear viscoelastic behavior from asphalt mastic to asphalt mortar. However, in the existing literature, limited research has been conducted on the size determination of the numerical model RVE for asphalt mortar. To provide a recommended size for the typical 2D random aggregate numerical model RVE of asphalt mortar in a nondestructive state, this paper first applies the virtual specimen manufacturing method of asphalt concrete 2D random aggregate to asphalt mortar. Then, it generates numerical model RVEs of asphalt mortar with different maximum particle sizes, after which geometric and numerical analyses are conducted on these models. Finally, based on the geometric and numerical analysis results, the recommended minimum sizes of RVE for the 2D asphalt mortar numerical model are provided.
Effect of Post-Cured through Thickness Reinforcement on Disbonding Behavior in Skin–Stringer Configuration
Authors: Bhagatji Jimesh D. , Morris Christopher , Sridhar Yogaraja , Bhattacharjee Bodhisatwa , Kaipa Krishnanand N. , Kravchenko Oleksandr G.
Published: July 2024

An experimental investigation of interlaminar toughness for post-cured through-thickness reinforcement (PTTR) skin–stringer sub-element is presented. The improvement in the crack resistance capability of skin–stringer samples was shown through experimental testing and finite element analysis (FEA) modeling. The performance of PTTR was evaluated on a pristine and initial-disbond of the skin–stringer specimen. A macro-scale pin–spring modeling approach was employed in FEA using a non-linear spring to capture the pin failure under the mixed-mode load. The experimental results showed a 15.5% and 20.9% increase in strength for the pristine-PTTR and initial-disbond PTTR specimens, respectively. The modeling approach accurately represents the overall structural response of PTTR laminate, including stiffness, adhesive strength, crack extension scenarios and progressive pin failure modes. This modeling approach can be beneficial for designing damage-tolerant structures by exploring various PTTR arrangements for achieving improved structural responses.
Demonstration of the Optical Isotropy of TiO2 Thin Films Prepared by the Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Nizioł Jacek , Zięba Magdalena , Śniechowski Maciej , Gondek Ewa , Pakieła Wojciech , Karasiński Paweł
Published: July 2024

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin films prepared by the sol–gel technique have been shown to be optically isotropic and, unlike the films obtained by competitive methods, do not exhibit measurable birefringence. A series of submicrometer-thin titanium dioxide films were prepared using the sol–gel technique and then thermally annealed at different temperatures. The samples were analyzed by spectroscopic ellipsometry using the Mueller matrix formalism, X-ray diffractometry and scanning electron microscopy. The conversion of amorphous titanium dioxide to polycrystalline anatase occurred at 400 °C or higher. Crystallites of a few percent of the film thickness were observed. Nevertheless, the crystallization process did not trigger the appearance of birefringence. These observations demonstrate that high-quality planar optical waveguides can be successfully fabricated on flexible substrates, in particular those composed of efficient polymers that can withstand the aforementioned temperatures.
Modeling of LCF Behaviour on AISI316L Steel Applying the Armstrong–Frederick Kinematic Hardening Model
Authors: Pate Sushant Bhalchandra , Dundulis Gintautas , Griskevicius Paulius
Published: July 2024

The combination of kinematic and isotropic hardening models makes it possible to model the behaviour of cyclic elastic-plastic steel material, though the estimation of the hardening parameters and catching the influence of those parameters on the material response is a challenging task. In the current work, an approach for the numerical simulation of the low-cycle fatigue of AISI316L steel is presented using a finite element method to study the fatigue behaviour of the steel at different strain amplitudes and operating temperatures. Fully reversed uniaxial LCF tests are performed at different strain amplitudes and operating temperatures. Based on the LCF test experimental results, the non-linear isotropic and kinematic hardening parameters are estimated for numerical simulation. On comparing, the numerical simulation results were in very good agreement with those of the experimental ones. This presented method for the numerical simulation of the low-cycle fatigue on AISI316 stainless steel can be used for the approximate prediction of the fatigue life of the components under different cyclic loading amplitudes.
Crystal Plasticity Parameter Optimization in Cyclically Deformed Electrodeposited Copper—A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Frydrych Karol , Tomczak Maciej , Papanikolaou Stefanos
Published: July 2024

This paper describes an application of a machine learning approach for parameter optimization. The method is demonstrated for the elasto-viscoplastic model with both isotropic and kinematic hardening. It is shown that the proposed method based on long short-term memory networks allowed a reasonable agreement of stress–strain curves to be obtained for cyclic deformation in a low-cycle fatigue regime. The main advantage of the proposed approach over traditional optimization schemes lies in the possibility of obtaining parameters for a new material without the necessity of conducting any further optimizations. As the power and robustness of the developed method was demonstrated for very challenging problems (cyclic deformation, crystal plasticity, self-consistent model and isotropic and kinematic hardening), it is directly applicable to other experiments and models.
Analytical Solutions of Symmetric Isotropic Spin Clusters Using Spin and Point Group Projectors
Authors: Ghassemi Tabrizi Shadan , Kühne Thomas D.
Published: July 2024

Spin models like the Heisenberg Hamiltonian effectively describe the interactions of open-shell transition-metal ions on a lattice and can account for various properties of magnetic solids and molecules. Numerical methods are usually required to find exact or approximate eigenstates, but for small clusters with spatial symmetry, analytical solutions exist, and a few Heisenberg systems have been solved in closed form. This paper presents a simple, generally applicable approach to analytically solve isotropic spin clusters, based on adapting the basis to both total spin and point group symmetry to factor the Hamiltonian matrix into sufficiently small blocks. We demonstrate applications to small rings and polyhedra, some of which are straightforward to solve by successive spin-coupling for Heisenberg terms only; additional interactions, such as biquadratic exchange or multi-center terms necessitate symmetry adaptation.
Erroneous Applications of Fractional Calculus: The Catenary as a Prototype
Authors: Becerra-Guzmán Gerardo , Villa-Morales José
Published: July 2024

In this work, we study the equation of the catenary curve in the context of the Caputo derivative. We solve this equation and compare the solution with real physical models. From the experiments, we find that the best approximation is achieved in the classical case. Therefore, introducing a fractional parameter arbitrarily can be detrimental. However, we observe that, when adding a certain weight to the chain, fractional calculus produces better results than classical calculus for modeling the minimum height.
An Effective Federated Object Detection Framework with Dynamic Differential Privacy
Authors: Wang Baoping , Feng Duanyang , Su Junyu , Song Shiyang
Published: July 2024

The proliferation of data across multiple domains necessitates the adoption of machine learning models that respect user privacy and data security, particularly in sensitive scenarios like surveillance and medical imaging. Federated learning (FL) offers a promising solution by decentralizing the learning process, allowing multiple participants to collaboratively train a model without sharing their data. However, when applied to complex tasks such as object detection, standard FL frameworks can fall short in balancing the dual demands of high accuracy and stringent privacy. This paper introduces a sophisticated federated object detection framework that incorporates advanced differential privacy mechanisms to enhance privacy protection. Our framework is designed to work effectively across heterogeneous and potentially large-scale datasets, characteristic of real-world environments. It integrates a novel adaptive differential privacy model that strategically adjusts the noise scale during the training process based on the sensitivity of the features being learned and the progression of the model’s accuracy. We present a detailed methodology that includes a privacy budget management system, which optimally allocates and tracks privacy expenditure throughout training cycles. Additionally, our approach employs a hybrid model aggregation technique that not only ensures robust privacy guarantees but also mitigates the degradation of object detection performance typically associated with DP. The effectiveness of our framework is demonstrated through extensive experiments on multiple benchmark datasets, including COCO and PASCAL VOC. Our results show that our framework not only adheres to strict DP standards but also achieves near-state-of-the-art object detection performance, underscoring its practical applicability. For example, in some settings, our method can lower the privacy success rate by 40% while maintaining high model accuracy. This study makes significant strides in advancing the field of privacy-preserving machine learning, especially in applications where user privacy cannot be compromised. The proposed framework sets a new benchmark for implementing federated learning in complex, privacy-sensitive tasks and opens avenues for future research in secure, decentralized machine learning technologies.
Australian Marine and Terrestrial Streptomyces-Derived Surugamides, and Synthetic Analogs, and Their Ability to Inhibit Dirofilaria immitis (Heartworm) Motility
Authors: Wu Taizong , Hussein Waleed , Samarasekera Kaumadi , Zhu Yuxuan , Khalil Zeinab , Jin Shengbin , Bruhn David , Moreno Yovany , Salim Angela , Capon Robert
Published: July 2024

A bioassay-guided chemical investigation of a bacterium, Streptomyces sp. CMB-MRB032, isolated from sheep feces collected near Bathurst, Victoria, Australia, yielded the known polyketide antimycins A4a (1) and A2a (2) as potent inhibitors of Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm) microfilaria (mf) motility (EC50 0.0013–0.0021 µg/mL), along with the octapeptide surugamide A (3) and the new N-methylated analog surugamide K (4). With biological data suggesting surugamides may also exhibit activity against D. immitis, a GNPS molecular network analysis of a library of microbes sourced from geographically diverse Australian ecosystems identified a further five taxonomically and chemically distinct surugamide producers. Scaled-up cultivation of one such producer, Streptomyces sp. CMB-M0112 isolated from a marine sediment collected at Shorncliff, Qld, Australia, yielded 3 along with the new acyl-surugamides A1–A4 (5–8). Solid-phase peptide synthesis provided additional synthetic analogs, surugamides S1–S3 (9–11), while derivatization of 3 returned the semi-synthetic surugamide S4 (12) and acyl-surugamides AS1–AS3 (13–15). The natural acyl-surugamide A3 (7) and semi-synthetic acyl-surugamide AS3 (15) were shown to selectively inhibit D. immitis mf motility (EC50 3.3–3.4 µg/mL), however, unlike antimycins 1 and 2, were inactive against the gastrointestinal nematode Haemonchus contortus L1–L3 larvae (EC50 > 25 µg/mL) and were not cytotoxic to mammalian cells (human colorectal carcinoma SW620, IC50 > 30 µg/mL). A structure–activity relationship (SAR) study on the surugamides 3–15 revealed that selective acylation of the Lys3-ε-NH2 correlates with anthelmintic activity.
Smoking-Dependent Association of Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor with Pulmonary Function Parameters in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Aleksandrova Elina , Dimov Dimo , Tacheva Tanya , Petrova Hristina , Celik Kahan , Vlaykova Tatyana
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: One of the members of the neurotrophin (NT) family is the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In addition to its role in the nerve system, it has been found to play a role in lung health and diseases. Materials and Methods: The serum concentrations of BDNF were assessed in 57 patients with COPD and in 19 control individuals and the possible associations of BDNF with the spirometric indexes and disease stages were explored. Results: We did not find a significant difference between the serum concentrations of BDNF of patients and controls (p = 0.521). A significant negative correlation of the serum BDNF levels with the age of the patients (Rho = −0.279, p = 0.036) was observed. In addition, a borderline negative correlation with the age of disease onset (Rho= −0.244, p = 0.063) was also found. When analyzing these correlations in different genders, we found stronger statistical significance in male patients (Rho = −0.398, p = 0.009; and Rho = −0.419, p = 0.006), while no such significance was found in females (p = 0.574 and p = 0.342). The analyses of the possible relations of serum BDNF concentration with the spirometric parameters in the whole group of patients did not reveal any significance (p = 0.231 for FEV1%pr. and p = 0.271 for FEV1/FVC%). However, when the patients were dichotomized on the basis of smoking habits, we obtained a strong positive correlation between BDNF and FEV1%pr. (Rho = 0.501, p = 0.048) in non-smokers, but strong negative correlations with FEV1%pr. (Rho = −0.468, p = 0.003) and with FEV1/FVC% (Rho = −0.331, p = 0.040) in ex/current smokers. Non-smokers with moderate disease (GOLD II) had higher BDNF serum concentrations than patients with GOLD stage III/IV (p = 0.031). In ex/current smokers, there was an opposite association (p = 0.045). Conclusions: The results of our study suggest that the expression and secretion of BDNF are changed in COPD, but its effects and functions may differ according to the smoking history of the patients.
Effect of Bi on the Tensile and Viscoplastic Behavior of Sn-Ag-Cu-Bi Alloys Used for Microelectronics Applications
Authors: Shukla Vishnu , Ahmed Omar , Su Peng , Tian Tian , Jiang Tengfei
Published: July 2024

Sn-Ag-Cu-Bi (SAC-Bi) alloys are gaining popularity as a potential replacement for current lead-free solder alloys in microelectronic packages. In this study, the tensile and viscoplastic behaviors of eight SAC-Bi alloys with 0, 1 wt.%, 2 wt.%, and 3 wt.% Bi content were investigated. The samples of these eight alloys were cast, aged at room temperature, 75 °C and 125 °C, and tensile-tested at rates of 0.1/s, 0.01/s, and 0.001/s in ambient and elevated temperature environments to facilitate the quantification of viscoplasticity using the Anand viscoplastic model. The Anand parameters of all eight alloys in the as-cast and aged conditions were determined. Tensile strength was found to increase with the addition of Bi. Additionally, alloys containing 2 and 3 wt.% Bi showed a 5 to 10% increase in tensile strength after isothermal aging of 90 days at 125 °C. On the contrary, the tensile strength of alloys with up to 1 wt.% Bi decreased by 22 to 48% after such aging. Using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), the microstructure of the alloys was characterized. The aging-induced property changes in the samples were correlated to strengthening by Bi solute atoms for alloys with 1 wt.% Bi and the formation of Bi precipitation for alloys with 2 wt.% and 3 wt.% Bi.
Advancing Lithium-Ion Batteries’ Electrochemical Performance: Ultrathin Alumina Coating on Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 Cathode Materials
Authors: Ahangari Mehdi , Xia Fan , Szalai Benedek , Zhou Meng , Luo Hongmei
Published: July 2024

Ni-rich Li(NixCoyMnz)O2 (x ≥ 0.8)-layered oxide materials are highly promising as cathode materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles. However, their tendency to undergo side reactions with electrolytes and their structural instability during cyclic lithiation/delithiation impairs their electrochemical cycling performance, posing challenges for large-scale applications. This paper explores the application of an Al2O3 coating using an atomic layer deposition (ALD) system on Ni-enriched Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 (NCM811) cathode material. Characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, were used to assess the impact of alumina coating on the morphology and crystal structure of NCM811. The results confirmed that an ultrathin Al2O3 coating was achieved without altering the microstructure and lattice structure of NCM811. The alumina-coated NCM811 exhibited improved cycling stability and capacity retention in the voltage range of 2.8–4.5 V at a 1 C rate. Specifically, the capacity retention of the modified NCM811 was 5%, 9.11%, and 11.28% higher than the pristine material at operating voltages of 4.3, 4.4, and 4.5 V, respectively. This enhanced performance is attributed to reduced electrode–electrolyte interaction, leading to fewer side reactions and improved structural stability. Thus, NCM811@Al2O3 with this coating process emerges as a highly attractive candidate for high-capacity lithium-ion battery cathode materials.
Design of a Portable Low-Cost I-V Curve Tracer for On-Line and In Situ Inspection of PV Modules
Authors: De Riso Monica , Dhimish Mahmoud , Guerriero Pierluigi , Daliento Santolo
Published: July 2024

Identifying underperforming photovoltaic (PV) modules is crucial to ensure optimal energy production and financial returns, as well as preventing potential safety hazards in case of severe damage. To this aim, current–voltage (I-V) curve tracing can be employed as in situ monitoring technique for the early detection of faults. In this paper, we introduce a novel low-cost, microcontroller-based I-V tracer for the diagnosis of individual PV modules. The tool features a unique power conditioning circuit, facilitating accurate data acquisition under static conditions as well as the even distribution of the measured points along the I-V curve. A specific active disconnecting circuit enables in situ and on-line measurement without interrupting the string power generation. The designed prototype is used to characterize a set of PV modules under real operating conditions. The measured I-V curves exhibit expected trends, with the measured data closely matching theoretical values and an estimated mean relative error less than 3%.
Computational Fluid–Structure Interaction in Microfluidics
Authors: Musharaf Hafiz Muhammad , Roshan Uditha , Mudugamuwa Amith , Trinh Quang Thang , Zhang Jun , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: July 2024

Micro elastofluidics is a transformative branch of microfluidics, leveraging the fluid–structure interaction (FSI) at the microscale to enhance the functionality and efficiency of various microdevices. This review paper elucidates the critical role of advanced computational FSI methods in the field of micro elastofluidics. By focusing on the interplay between fluid mechanics and structural responses, these computational methods facilitate the intricate design and optimisation of microdevices such as microvalves, micropumps, and micromixers, which rely on the precise control of fluidic and structural dynamics. In addition, these computational tools extend to the development of biomedical devices, enabling precise particle manipulation and enhancing therapeutic outcomes in cardiovascular applications. Furthermore, this paper addresses the current challenges in computational FSI and highlights the necessity for further development of tools to tackle complex, time-dependent models under microfluidic environments and varying conditions. Our review highlights the expanding potential of FSI in micro elastofluidics, offering a roadmap for future research and development in this promising area.
Predictive Modeling of UV-C Inactivation of Microorganisms in Glass, Titanium, and Polyether Ether Ketone
Authors: Chroudi Amira , Nicolau Talita , Sahoo Narayan , Carvalho Óscar , Zille Andrea , Hamza Samir , Padrão Jorge
Published: July 2024

Biomaterials consist of both natural and synthetic components, such as polymers, tissues, living cells, metals, and ceramics. Their purpose is focused on repairing or replacing malfunctioning living tissues and organs. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure the safety and sterility of biomaterials before any contact with living tissue. Ultraviolet (UV)-C irradiation for biomaterial disinfection has been considered due to the high recurrence rate of bacterial infections and to prevent resistance. Physical composition and surface properties and UV-C sensitivity of microorganisms can alter its efficacy. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of UV-C in terms of microbial lethality and additional underlying factors contributing to its performance, namely the surface properties. For this purpose, twelve different strains were first screened, from which four microorganism species known to have the ability to cause nosocomial infections were further tested, namely Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Candida glabrata. These microorganisms were inoculated onto slides and disks of various bio contact surfaces, including glass (GLS), titanium (Ti), and poly ether etherketone (PEEK), and exposed to UV-C. The results demonstrate that bacterial pathogens on biomaterial surfaces respond differently to UV-C light exposure, and the bactericidal effect decreased in this order: glass, PEEK, and Ti (0.5 to 2.0 log reduction differences). P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853 on glass surfaces was reduced to an undetectable level after being exposed to 6.31 J.cm−2 of UV-C, displaying the highest reduction rate observed among all the tested microorganisms, 2.90 J−1.cm−3, compared to Ti and PEEK. Similarly, a higher reduction in C. glabrata ATCC 2001 was observed on glass; the modeled inhibition displayed a rate of 1.30 J−1.cm−3, the highest observed rate among yeast, compared to Ti and PEEK, displaying rates of 0.10 J−1.cm−3 and 0.04 J−1.cm−3, respectively. The inactivation rates were higher for less hydrophobic materials with smoother surfaces as compared to biomaterials with rougher surfaces.
Impact of Inflammatory Burden on Voriconazole Exposure in Oncohematological Pediatric Patients Receiving Antifungal Prophylaxis after Allogeneic HCT
Authors: Gatti Milo , Campoli Caterina , Muratore Edoardo , Belotti Tamara , Masetti Riccardo , Lanari Marcello , Viale Pierluigi , Pea Federico
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: The impact of inflammation on voriconazole exposure in oncohematological pediatric patients represents a debated issue. We aimed to investigate the impact of serum C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels on voriconazole exposure in oncohematological pediatric patients requiring allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). (2) Methods: Pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic HCT and receiving therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM)-guided voriconazole as primary antifungal prophylaxis between January 2021 and December 2023 were included. The ratio between concentration and dose (C/D) of voriconazole was used as a surrogate marker of total clearance. A receiving operating characteristic curve analysis was performed by using CRP, PCT, or IL-6 values as the test variable and voriconazole C/D ratio > 0.188 or >0.375 (corresponding to a trough concentration value [Cmin] of 3 mg/L normalized to the maintenance dose of 16 mg/kg/day in patients of age < 12 years and of 8 mg/kg/day in those ≥12 years, respectively) as the state variable. Area under the curve (AUC) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. (3) Results: Overall, 39 patients were included. The median (IQR) voriconazole Cmin was 1.7 (0.7–3.0) mg/L. A CRP value > 8.49 mg/dL (AUC = 0.72; 95%CI 0.68–0.76; p < 0.0001), a PCT value > 2.6 ng/mL (AUC = 0.71; 95%CI 0.63–0.77; p < 0.0001), and an IL-6 value > 27.9 pg/mL (AUC = 0.80; 95%CI 0.71–0.88; p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with voriconazole overexposure. Consistent results were found in patients aged <12 and ≥12 years. (4) Conclusions: A single specific threshold of inflammatory biomarkers may be linked to a significantly higher risk of voriconazole exposure in oncohematological pediatric patients after HCT, irrespective of age. Adopting a TDM-guided strategy could be useful for minimizing the risk of voriconazole overexposure.
Chemical and Physical Denudation Rates in the Poços de Caldas Alkaline Massif, Minas Gerais State, Brazil
Authors: Conceição Fabiano Tomazini da , Mello Rafael Carvalho Alves de , Fernandes Alexandre Martins , Sardinha Diego de Souza
Published: July 2024

Chemical and physical denudation rates have been assessed in areas with different lithologies. Surprisingly, there are no studies that attempt to document these rates in the Poços de Caldas Alkaline Massif (PC), the largest alkaline magmatism in South America and an important Al supergene deposit in Brazil. Therefore, the chemical and physical denudation rates were assessed and explained in the PC. Surface water and rainwater samples were collected at the Amoras Stream basin, covering one complete hydrological cycle (2016). All samples were analyzed for dissolved cations, silica, anions, total dissolved solids (TDS), and total suspended solids (TSS). The results reflected the seasonal variation on discharge, water temperature, and electrical conductivity in the Amoras Stream, with most of the cations, anions, silica TDS, and TSS being carried in the wet season. Partial hydrolysis and silicate incongruent dissolution are the main water/rock interactions in the PC, with an atmospheric/soil CO2 consumption rate of 1.6 × 105 mol/km2/a. The annual fluxes of Cl−, PO43−, NO3−, and Al3+ were significantly influenced from rainwater. Chemical and physical weathering rates were 4 ± 0.8 and 3.0 ± 0.6 m/Ma in the PC, respectively, indicating that under the current climatic condition, the weathering profile is in dynamic equilibrium.