bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Implication of HIF-PH Inhibitor in Patients with Heart Failure, Chronic Kidney Disease, and Renal Anemia
Authors: Hida Yuki , Imamura Teruhiko , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: December 2024

Background: Hypoxia-inducible factor-prolyl hydroxylase (HIF-PH) inhibitors have been developed as a treatment for renal anemia. However, their therapeutic impact on patients with concomitant heart failure remains uncertain. We investigated the impact of HIF-PH inhibitors on improving renal anemia and associated clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure. Methods: Patients with both heart failure and renal anemia who received HIF-PH inhibitors were retrospectively analyzed over a six-month follow-up period. Hemoglobin levels and other clinical parameters were compared between the six-month pre-treatment period without HIF-PH inhibitors and the six-month treatment period with HIF-PH inhibitors. Results: A total of 69 patients (median age 82 years, 27 male) were included. Baseline hemoglobin was 9.2 (8.8, 10.3) g/dL, baseline plasma B-type natriuretic peptide level was 264 (156, 372) pg/mL, and baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate was 29.1 (19.0, 35.1) mL/min/1.73 m2. Hemoglobin levels declined during the pre-treatment period from 10.5 (9.4, 11.5) g/dL to 9.2 (8.8, 10.3) g/dL (p < 0.001) but subsequently increased to 10.9 (10.1, 12.0) g/dL following six months of HIF-PH inhibitor treatment (p < 0.001). This increase in hemoglobin was accompanied by a reduction in plasma BNP levels, improved renal function, and reduced systemic inflammation (p < 0.05 for all). Conclusions: HIF-PH inhibitors demonstrated efficacy in this cohort of patients with heart failure, with associated improvements in heart failure severity, renal function, and systemic inflammation.
Advances in the Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Ultrasonic Techniques for Monitoring Concrete Structures: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Angiulli Giovanni , Burrascano Pietro , Ricci Marco , Versaci Mario
Published: December 2024

This review examines the integration of advanced ultrasonic techniques and artificial intelligence (AI) for monitoring and analyzing concrete structures, focusing on detecting and classifying internal defects. Concrete structures are subject to damage over time due to environmental factors and dynamic loads, compromising their integrity. Non-destructive techniques, such as ultrasonics, allow for identifying discontinuities and microcracks without altering structural functionality. This review addresses key scientific challenges, such as the complexity of managing the large volumes of data generated by high-resolution inspections and the importance of non-linear models, such as the Hammerstein model, for interpreting ultrasonic signals. Integrating AI with advanced analytical models enhances early defect diagnosis and enables the creation of detailed maps of internal discontinuities. Results reported in the literature show significant improvements in diagnostic sensitivity (up to 30% compared to traditional linear techniques), accuracy in defect localization (improvements of 25%), and reductions in predictive maintenance costs by 20–40%, thanks to advanced systems based on convolutional neural networks and fuzzy logic. These innovative approaches contribute to the sustainability and safety of infrastructure, with significant implications for monitoring and maintaining the built environment. The scientific significance of this review lies in offering a systematic overview of emerging technologies and their application to concrete structures, providing tools to address challenges related to infrastructure degradation and contributing to advancements in composite sciences.
Taxonomic Study of Free-Living Marine Nematodes in the Subgenus Tricoma (Desmoscolecida: Desmoscolecidae) from the Subtidal Zone of the East Sea, Korea, with Insights into the Ultrastructure of the Lip Region
Authors: Lee Hyo Jin , Lee Heegab , Rho Hyun Soo
Published: December 2024

This study provides a taxonomic analysis of three newly discovered species of free-living marine nematodes in the subgenus Tricoma from the East Sea, Korea. Tricoma (Tricoma) polyringulata sp. nov. is characterized by its relatively small body size, with lengths of 280–370 µm in males and 320–390 µm in females, and 75–89 main rings. Diagnostic features include an uncovered first ring, triangular head shape, amphidial fovea with slight constriction, and a unique pattern of somatic setae, comprising 7–9 subdorsal and 8–12 subventral setae. Tricoma (Tricoma) fortiseta sp. nov. is distinguished by 65–69 main rings, 10–12 subdorsal setae, and 17–20 subventral setae, along with a hexagonal head, a well-defined labial region with six lips, and bifid-tipped cephalic setae located medially on the head. Tricoma (Tricoma) uljinensis sp. nov. exhibits 67–70 main rings, with a thick, sclerotized head that is 1.5 times as wide as its length, gently triangular in shape. Its diagnostic features include a gubernaculum bent downward near its midpoint and a conical terminal ring, with 25–39% of the desmos covered. Detailed morphological descriptions of each species are provided, along with a comparative table of morphological traits for species with 61–75 main rings and an illustrated key for identification.
Impact of Sidedness of Colon Cancer on Epidemiological, Clinical Presentation, Surgical, Pathological, and Oncologic Outcomes
Authors: Moraes Filho Oswaldo de , Alves Martins Bruno Augusto , Silva André Araujo de Medeiros , Nóbrega dos Santos Antonio Carlos , de Almeida Romulo Medeiros , Sousa João Batista
Published: December 2024

Aim: The purpose of the study was to identify potential differences between patients with right colon cancer and left colon cancer in epidemiological, clinical presentation, pathological, and surgical results in addition to the impact of the sidedness on disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Method: Patients with a diagnosis of colon cancer stages I-IV between 2010 and 2020 were identified from a prospective database in a tertiary single center. Right and left-sided cancer were compared regarding epidemiological, clinical presentation, pathological, and surgical results. Survival analysis was conducted using the Kaplan–Meier method and adjusted hazard ratios for mortality (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were obtained using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results: The right colon group included 82 (31%) patients and the left colon group 182 (69%). After adjusted analysis, RCC presented less bleeding (RP: 0.31; CI: 0.18–0.56; p: 0.0001) and change in bowel habits (RP: 0.60; CI: 0.41–0.87; p: 0.0069). A laparotomy approach was more performed in LCC (RP: 0.64; CI: 0.47–0.86; p: 0.0029). Regarding pathological results, RCC had more poorly differentiated tumors (RP: 0.81; CI: 0.70–0.94; p: 0.05). In the adjusted analysis, there was no difference in survival for right-sided compared to left-sided colon cancer: the hazard ratios were 1.36 (CI 95%: 0.61–3.01; p: 0.4490) for OS and 2.04 (CI: 0.91–4.59; p: 0.0814) for DFS. Conclusions: In this population-based cohort, we found no impact of colon cancer sidedness on OS and DFS. RCC presented less differentiated tumors and LCC presented more bleeding and change in bowel habits.
Does Profitability Moderate the Relationship Between the Leverage and Dividend Policy of Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria and South Africa?
Authors: Akpadaka Ovbe Simon , Farouk Musa Adeiza , Dang Dagwom Yohanna , Fodio Musa Inuwa
Published: December 2024

This study examines the moderating role of profitability in the relationship between leverage and dividend policy in listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria and South Africa. Using a sample of 915 firm-year observations from 2013 to 2022, the analysis employs panel Tobit regression to manage the censored nature of dividend data, with logistic regression applied as a robustness check. The findings reveal a negative association between leverage and dividend payout ratio for Nigerian firms, while this association is less pronounced and statistically insignificant in South Africa, reflecting a more flexible financial environment. Profitability strengthens the leverage–dividend policy relationship in Nigeria, enabling firms to maintain dividends despite high leverage; however, this moderating effect is weaker in South Africa. These results underscore the importance of context-specific financial strategies, recommending that Nigerian policymakers improve access to affordable credit, while South African policymakers focus on sustaining market stability. This study advances the understanding of dividend policy in emerging markets by clarifying how leverage and profitability interact to shape dividend practices.
Landscape Character Identification and Zoning Management in Disaster-Prone Mountainous Areas: A Case Study of Mentougou District, Beijing
Authors: Li Shuchang , Zhang Jinshi
Published: December 2024

Disaster-prone mountainous regions face complex human–environment conflicts resulting from the combined influences of natural disaster threats, ecosystem conservation, and resource development. This study takes Mentougou District as the research area, leveraging landscape character identification methods to develop a multidimensional evaluation framework integrating safety, ecology, and landscape aspects, providing a foundation for zoning and management decisions. Four characteristic elements—elevation, geomorphology, vegetation type, and land cover type—were extracted during the landscape character identification phase. Two-step clustering and eCognition multi-scale segmentation were used to identify 12 landscape character types (LCTs) and delineate Landscape Character Areas (LCAs). The MaxEnt model was applied during the evaluation phase to assess debris flow susceptibility. At the same time, AHP and ArcGIS spatial overlay methods were used to evaluate ecological resilience and landscape resource quality. The three-dimensional evaluation results for the 12 LCAs were clustered and manually interpreted, resulting in four levels of protection and development areas. Management strategies were proposed from three perspectives: debris flow disaster prevention, ecosystem conservation, and landscape resource development. This method provides a pathway to balance human–environment conflicts in disaster-prone mountainous regions, promoting scientific zoning management and sustainable development in vast mountainous areas.
Identification of Spatial and Symbolic City Image Elements Through Social Media Data: A Case Study of Hangzhou
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Shi Yu , Xu Weishun , Wu Yue
Published: December 2024

Despite emerging empirical findings and computational tools that extend city image research to include social dimensions beyond visual perception, methodologies for effectively identifying and analyzing the relationships between the five city image elements remain underdeveloped. This paper addresses the gap by proposing a big data-driven method, integrating Weibo check-in data, Baidu Map POI, and ArcGIS algorithms to identify city image elements and further reveal a city’s overall morphological characteristics. Based on different modes of observation, city image elements are categorized as spatial descriptors (“districts”, “nodes”, and “paths”) and symbolic descriptors (“landmarks” and “edges”). Taking Hangzhou as a case study, the findings show a strong alignment between urban development achievements and the distribution patterns of city image elements. “Districts” and “landmarks” stand out as the most prominent, reflecting functional zoning and urban maturity, while “nodes” emphasize the city’s polycentric structure. “Paths” offer clear insight into the city’s development trajectory, while “edges” appear to be legible only in relation to other elements. This method innovates cognitive mapping by merging real-world perceptions with algorithmic precision, offering a valuable tool for understanding urban morphology, monitoring development changes, and fostering participatory urban design.
Survival Prognostic Factors of Non-Invasive Ventilation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Orlova Aleksandra , Malygin Yaroslav , Gofman Anna , Sotulenko Sofija , Gandalian Veronika , Kartashov Ioan , Brylev Lev , Bolevich Sergey , Nikolic Turnic Tamara , Jakovljevic Vladimir
Published: December 2024

Objective: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease with high rates of disability and mortality. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is an effective method of treating patients, increasing life expectancy, but currently, predictors available to determine the best outcome of therapy in this category of patients are unknown. This systematic review aimed to determine the impact of prognostic factors on benefits from NIV application compared with non-NIV tools of treatment (invasive ventilation and standard care) in case of survival of ALS patients. Method: We systematically sought relevant longitudinal cohort and case-control studies published in PubMed, CINAHL/EMBASE, Cochrane library, and Scopus. Results: We included seven prospective studies, published in 2010–2020, in the analysis. According to the evidence base available to date, NIV favors survival compared to non-NIV in patients with bulbar onset ALS. We obtained conflicting data on the significance of spinal onset and bulbar function. Survival depending on patient age, and also for spinal, cervical, and flail limb phenotypes during NIV therapy has not been sufficiently studied and needs further investigation. Conclusions: The studies analyzed in this review allow us to state with confidence that NIV is effective in bulbar onset ALS, taking into account recommendations for duration of ventilation and the use of the full range of symptomatic therapy, including mechanically assisted coughing. The effectiveness of NIV on severe bulbar symptoms requires further research.
Friction and Wear Properties of AgCuNi Alloy/Au-Electroplated Layer Sliding Electrical Contact Material
Authors: Wu Hongjian , Zhang Yanan , Cao Hui , Li Han , Jia Qingjian , Ma Ming
Published: December 2024

Understanding the tribological properties of alloy-based sliding electrical contacts is crucial for both fundamental research and practical applications. Here, to explore the friction, wear, and contact resistance of a AgCuNi alloy/Au-electroplated layer during sliding, a ball-on-disk tribometer was coupled with a source meter. The experiments were conducted under various conditions including a current ranging from 0 to 1.0 A, a normal load ranging from 0.5 to 3.0 N, and a sliding speed of 40 mm/s. The results indicate that the wear of the friction pair is aggravated by both the current and the increase in the normal load. When the current was 0.5 A, the wear loss reached its lowest point. However, as the current increased from 0.5 A to 1.0 A, there was an intensification in Ag transfer from the alloy ball to the Au-electroplated layer, resulting in an increase in wear loss. Both the normal load and current have significant effects on both friction coefficient and contact resistance. The variation in contact resistance over time follows a similar pattern to that of the friction coefficient over time. The formation of a transfer film plays a crucial role in determining contact resistance, wear resistance, and friction coefficient. The experiment demonstrates that optimizing the normal load and current can adjust both the contact resistance and friction coefficient, thereby prolonging service life and ensuring the stability of contacts.
Closing the Loop: Solid Oxide Fuel and Electrolysis Cells Materials for a Net-Zero Economy
Authors: Dragan Mirela
Published: December 2024

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and solid oxide electrolyzer cells (SOECs) represent a promising clean energy solution. In the case of SOFCs, they offer efficiency and minimal to zero CO2 emissions when used to convert chemical energy into electricity. When SOFC systems are operated in regenerative mode for water electrolysis, the SOFCs become solid oxide electrolyzer cells (SOECs). The problem with these systems is the supply and availability of raw materials for SOFC and SOEC components. This raises significant economic challenges and has an impact on the price and scalability of these technologies. Recycling the materials that make up these systems can alleviate these economic challenges by reducing dependence on the supply of raw materials and reducing overall costs. From this point of view, this work is a perspective analysis and examines the current research on the recycling of SOFC and SOEC materials, highlighting the potential paths towards a circular economy. The existing literature on different approaches to recycling the key materials for components of SOFCs and SOECs is important. Mechanical separation techniques to isolate these components, along with potential strategies like chemical leaching or hydrometallurgical and material characterization, to ensure the quality of recycled materials for reuse in new SOFCs and SOECs are important as well. By evaluating the efficiency of various methods and the quality of recovered materials, this study aims to provide valuable insights for advancing sustainable and economically viable SOFC and SOEC technologies within a net-zero economic framework.
DSSCs Sensitized with Phenothiazine Derivatives Containing 1H-Tetrazole-5-acrylic Acid as an Anchoring Unit
Authors: Amin Muhammad Faisal , Gnida Paweł , Małecki Jan Grzegorz , Kotowicz Sonia , Schab-Balcerzak Ewa
Published: December 2024

Phenothiazine-based photosensitizers bear the intrinsic potential to substitute various expensive organometallic dyes owing to the strong electron-donating nature of the former. If coupled with a strong acceptor unit and the length of N-alkyl chain is appropriately chosen, they can easily produce high efficiency levels in dye-sensitized solar cells. Here, three novel D-A dyes containing 1H-tetrazole-5-acrylic acid as an acceptor were synthesized by varying the N-alkyl chain length at its phenothiazine core and were exploited in dye-sensitized solar cells. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that the synthesized phenothiazine derivatives exhibited behavior characteristic of molecular glasses, with glass transition and melting temperatures in the range of 42–91 and 165–198 °C, respectively. Based on cyclic and differential pulse voltammetry measurements, it was evident that their lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) (−3.01–−3.14 eV) and highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) (−5.28–−5.33 eV) values were fitted to the TiO2 conduction band and the redox energy of I−/I3− in electrolyte, respectively. The experimental results were supported by density functional theory, which was also utilized for estimation of the adsorption energy of the dyes on the TiO2 and its size. Finally, the compounds were tested in dye-sensitized solar cells, which were characterized based on current–voltage measurements. Additionally, for the compound giving the best photovoltaic response, the efficiency of the DSSCs was optimized by a photoanode modification involving the use of cosensitization and coadsorption approaches and the introduction of a blocking layer. Subsequently, two types of tandem dye-sensitized solar cells were constructed, which resulted in an increase in photovoltaic efficiency to 6.37%, as compared to DSSCs before modifications, with a power conversion value of 2.50%.
Sintering Ag33 Nanoclusters on TiO2 Nanoparticles as an Efficient Catalyst for Nitroarene Reduction
Authors: Zhang Weihua , Yang Wenwen , Yuan Jianglu , Zhao Huiping , Han Qingwen , Fang Wanggang , Nie Defu , He Liqing , Tian Fan
Published: December 2024

Polydispersed Ag species-modified TiO2 samples with abundant oxygen vacancies were successfully prepared through the calcination of atomically precise Ag33 nanocluster-loaded TiO2 at an optimal temperature under a nitrogen atmosphere. The ligands of the Ag33 nanoclusters are removed by extracting lattice oxygen from TiO2 during the calcination, leading to the formation of CO2, SO2, and H2O vapor. This process simultaneously induces Ag species sintering on the surface of TiO2. The resulting nanocomposites exhibited excellent catalytic activity for the reduction of nitroarenes with NaBH4 as the reductant. This is attributed to the produced Ag species on the oxygen-deficient TiO2, which act as active centers for the catalytic process.
Determination of Shear Strength Parameters of Concrete Materials Based on the Rectangular Section Splitting Method
Authors: Yue Jinchao , Wang Da , Jiang Yan , Shi Shoukun , Huang Yibin
Published: December 2024

This paper introduces an alternative method for determining the shear strength parameters of concrete materials, specifically the rectangular section splitting method, to ascertain the shear strength parameters of concrete materials. Based on the Mohr–Coulomb failure criterion, formulas for calculating the cohesion (c) and the angle of internal friction (φ) of concrete materials are derived. Numerical simulation is employed to fit and solve for the coefficients involved in the formulas. Subsequently, the concrete rectangular section splitting method and direct shear tests are utilized to verify the derived formulas. The results indicate that there is a certain feasibility to the shear strength parameters obtained for concrete materials through the rectangular section splitting method. The cohesion (c) differs by approximately 3.65%, and the angle of internal friction (φ) differs by about 6.94% when compared to the shear strength parameters obtained through direct shear tests. This suggests that the rectangular section splitting method provides a viable approach for determining the shear strength parameters of concrete materials.
Deformation Behavior and Microstructural Evolution Coordinated Regulation by Compression Deformation for Metastable Ti Alloy
Authors: Wang Xueli , Jia Penglai , Wang Taoqin , Li Fuguo , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2024

In this paper, in order to investigate the harmonious relationship between the compression deformation behavior of metastable β titanium alloy and the microstructure evolution, the β solution-treated Ti-10V-2Fe-3Al (Ti-1023) alloy was compressed at room temperature and its deformation behavior was analyzed. Optical microscopy (OM) and field emission electron microscopy (FESEM) were used to study the microstructure evolution of alloys at different strain rates. The results show that the stress-induced martensite transformation (SIMT) is more easily activated by low strain rate compression deformation, which is conducive to improving its comprehensive mechanical properties. With the decrease in strain rate, the α″ martensite content increases significantly, the average grain size decreases substantially, and the Low Angle Grain Boundary (LAGB) volume fraction decreases correspondingly. In addition, after compression at different strain rates, the misorientation angle (MA) of the β matrix is mainly concentrated in the LAGBs. The change is small with the decrease in strain rate, but the α″ martensite orientation difference angle shows some peaks, which are ~60°, ~85°, and ~95°, respectively. Simultaneously, the strain rate has an important effect on the content and type of martensitic twins. Finally, the fracture morphology analysis shows that with the increase in strain rate, the fracture mode changes from ductile fracture to brittle fracture. The fracture surface presents a significantly elongated cavity along the direction of maximum shear stress.
Deformation Control of TC4 Titanium Alloy in Thin-Walled Hyperbolic Structures During Hot Forming Processes
Authors: Zhang Tao , Xia Jianchao , Han Xiuquan , Du Lihua , Chen Lihua , Han Yujie , Cao Fengchao , Wang Duoduo , Liu Xiaochuan
Published: December 2024

The thin-walled hyperbolic structures made from titanium alloy primarily encompass two typical forms: hyperbolic convex and hyperbolic concave (saddle). This paper addresses the technical challenges associated with the forming processes that frequently result in ripples or wrinkles in these configurations. Specifically, it investigates precision control techniques for the hot forming process of thin-walled hyperbolic skins from TC4 titanium alloy. The present study examines the relationship between the instability characteristics and defect features of the thin-walled hyperbolic skins, establishing a constitutive model for TC4 titanium alloy and conducting uniaxial tensile tests. For the hyperbolic convex skin and the hyperbolic saddle skin, small-margin coupled hot pressing and curved edge forming processes are employed, respectively. Results are analyzed to identify the forms and distribution patterns of forming defects across different geometries. Furthermore, the surface accuracy following the forming processes is compared, culminating in a summary of the relationship between the ratio of the sum of chord heights to the sum of chord lengths and the occurrence of ripples and wrinkles.
The Substitution Effect of the Fine Aggregate in Concrete with Oyster Shell
Authors: Hong Yao-Ming , Choudhury Sharan Roy
Published: December 2024

The construction industry contributes significantly to global carbon emissions, accounting for approximately 27% of total emissions. With the increasing demand for concrete, there is a growing need to explore alternative materials that can reduce environmental impact. This study investigates the potential of using oyster shell powder, a waste material, as a partial replacement for fine aggregates in concrete. The methodology involves replacing fine aggregates with oyster shell powder in varying proportions (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%) and testing the compressive strength of the resulting concrete after 56 days. The concrete mix used in this study consists of 16.67% cement, 33.33% fine aggregates, and 50% coarse aggregates (10–20 mm). The findings show that increasing oyster shell content reduces the concrete’s compressive strength; however, at 40% replacement, the concrete still achieves a compressive strength of 30 MPa, which meets the required building strength standards. Additionally, the use of oyster shell powder reduces the unit weight of concrete by approximately 10% at the 40% substitution rate, due to the lower specific gravity of oyster shells compared to sand. This research highlights the potential of using oyster shell powder as a viable solution for mitigating oyster shell waste while providing an alternative material for fine aggregates in concrete.
Effect of Solution Treatment on the Microstructure and Elevated Temperature Tensile Properties of Forged Rene 41 Superalloy
Authors: Zhang Xianguang , Han Haoran , Zhou Yang , Chen Jiajun , Feng Shouli , Tang Pingmei , Xiao Dongping , Fu Jianhui , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2024

The effects of a solution treatment on the microstructure and elevated mechanical properties of the forged Rene 41 superalloy were investigated. The results indicate that the solution treatment temperature has a significant influence on the γ′ structure and mechanical properties. The sub-solvus solution treatment resulted in the co-existence of residual primary coarse γ′ precipitates and fine secondary γ′ precipitates, while the super-solvus solution treatments led to the complete dissolution of the primary γ′ precipitates and the precipitation of a nano-sized secondary spherical γ′ precipitate. The tensile strength increased and then decreased when the solution temperature increased from the sub-solvus to super-solvus solution treatments. In addition, the solution treatment time has a negligible influence on the γ′ and overall mechanical properties due to the complete dissolution of γ′ during the solution treatment at 1080 °C for 1 h. Moreover, the cooling rate following the solution treatment plays a significant role regarding the size and morphology of γ′ and the mechanical properties. The secondary γ′ changed gradually from spherical to concave cubic and octo-cubic and coarsened with the decrease in the cooling rate, resulting in an apparent decrease in strength and increase in ductility.
DeepONet-Inspired Architecture for Efficient Financial Time Series Prediction
Authors: Ahmad Zeeshan , Bao Shudi , Chen Meng
Published: December 2024

Financial time series prediction is a fundamental problem in investment and risk management. Deep learning models, such as multilayer perceptrons, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), have been widely used in modeling time series data by incorporating historical information. Among them, LSTM has shown excellent performance in capturing long-term temporal dependencies in time-series data, owing to its enhanced internal memory mechanism. In spite of the success of these models, it is observed that in the presence of sharp changing points, these models fail to perform. To address this problem, we propose, in this article, an innovative financial time series prediction method inspired by the Deep Operator Network (DeepONet) architecture, which uses a combination of transformer architecture and a one-dimensional CNN network for processing feature-based information, followed by an LSTM based network for processing temporal information. It is therefore named the CNN–LSTM–Transformer (CLT) model. It not only incorporates external information to identify latent patterns within the financial data but also excels in capturing their temporal dynamics. The CLT model adapts to evolving market conditions by leveraging diverse deep-learning techniques. This dynamic adaptation of the CLT model plays a pivotal role in navigating abrupt changes in the financial markets. Furthermore, the CLT model improves the long-term prediction accuracy and stability compared with state-of-the-art existing deep learning models and also mitigates adverse effects of market volatility. The experimental results show the feasibility and superiority of the proposed CLT model in terms of prediction accuracy and robustness as compared to existing prediction models. Moreover, we posit that the innovation encapsulated in the proposed DeepONet-inspired CLT model also holds promise for applications beyond the confines of finance, such as remote sensing, data mining, natural language processing, and so on.
Numerical Study of the Thermal Energy Storage Container Shape Impact on the NePCM Melting Process
Authors: Younis Obai , Qasem Naef A. A. , Abderrahmane Aissa , Belazreg Abdeldjalil
Published: December 2024

Recently, thermal energy storage has emerged as one of the alternative solutions to increase energy efficiency. The geometry of a thermal energy storage container holds a significant role in increasing the heat transmission rates in the container. In this article, we examined the influence of the inner and outer tube shapes of a shell and tube LHTES on the thermal activity within the system. The gap between the inner and outer tube is loaded with nano-enhanced phase change material (NePCM); hot fluid is passed through the inner tube while the outer tube is insulated. COMSOL commercial software (version 6.2) was used to numerically simulate the NePCM melting process. Mainly, six different geometries were investigated with inner or outer tubes with trefoil, cinquefoil, and heptafoil shapes. The influences of nanoparticles volumetric fraction (ϕ = 0–8%) were also discussed. The findings are displayed and discussed in terms of the average Nusselt number, the average liquid fraction, the total energy generation, and the average temperature. The findings showed that the melting process is highly affected by the shape of the inner tube and ϕ, while the outer tube shape impact is less important. It was noticed that employing an inner tube with a trefoil improved the melting process by more than 25% while increasing the ϕ from 0 to 8% resulted in reducing the melting time by up to 20%.
Applying Theorems on b-Metric Spaces to Differential and Integral Equations Through Connected-Image Contractions
Authors: Chaichana Khuanchanok , Poochinapan Kanyuta , Suebcharoen Teeranush , Charoensawan Phakdi
Published: December 2024

This paper introduces a new concept of a connected-image set for a mapping, which extends the notion of edge-preserving properties with respect to mapping. We also present novel definitions of connected-image contractions, with a focus on fixed-point theorems involving auxiliary functions in b-metric spaces. The relationships between these mathematical concepts are explored, along with their applications to solving differential and integral equations. In particular, we discuss existence results for solving integral equations and second-order ordinary differential equations with inhomogeneous Dirichlet boundary conditions, as well as theorems related to contractions of the integral type.
Comminuted Paraspinal Rib Fractures with Resultant Impending Penetrating Aortic Injury Requiring Costovertebral Rib Fixation: A Case Report
Authors: Min Soon-Ki , Jeong Tae-Seok , Jeon Yang-Bin
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Rib fractures are common in patients with trauma, and patients with multiple rib fractures often require surgical stabilization. Because rib fractures may occur at different sites along the ribs, the technical approach to surgical stabilization varies. Here, we present a case of posterior rib fractures with multiple paraspinal fragmented rib segments that were successfully treated with costovertebral plate fixation. Case Presentation: A truck driver was injured after falling from the top of a truck. Computed tomography scans of the chest showed multiple flail segments along the paraspinal and posterolateral regions with a clinically evident flail chest. Owing to the proximity of the flail segments to the thoracic spine, rib plating was performed across the ribs and the transverse processes of the thoracic spine with the assistance of a neurosurgeon. The patient was extubated on postoperative day 1 and discharged successfully after the other traumatic injuries were treated. Discussion: Far posterior rib fractures close to the spine may be challenging, particularly if plates for rib fractures cannot be placed on the ribs alone. For such challenges, costotransverse plating is a feasible surgical option. However, the anatomical orientation of the rib and the transverse process of the thoracic spine are different, which complicates surgical planning and maneuvers. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the costotransverse anatomy is critical for successful surgical stabilization of fractured ribs. Conclusions: This is a good example of a challenging case of rib fractures requiring paraspinal plate stabilization.
Effect of Heat Treatment on the Corrosion Behavior of Weld-Deposited Chromium Carbide-Based Hardfacing Alloys
Authors: Tan Cedric , Krishnan Kannoorpatti , Elumalai Naveen Kumar
Published: December 2024

The effects of heat treatment on the microstructure and corrosion behavior of chromium carbide-based hardfacing alloys deposited via gas metal arc welding were investigated. The hardfacing alloy, high chromium white iron (HCWI), containing 27 wt% Cr and 4.8 wt% C, was heat treated at 650 °C and 950 °C for six hours followed by natural cooling to room temperature. Microstructural characterization revealed that heat treatment promoted the transformation of austenite to ferrite and increased carbide precipitation. X-ray diffraction analysis identified the primary carbides as Cr7C3, which remained stable during heat treatment. Electrochemical corrosion testing in artificial seawater, including potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), demonstrated progressively improved corrosion resistance with heat treatment temperature. Both techniques confirmed that the specimen treated at 950 °C exhibited superior corrosion resistance compared to the 650 °C treatment and as-deposited condition, with the specimen treated at 950 °C exhibiting the highest charge transfer resistance (4711 Ω·cm2) compared to the 650 °C treatment (2608 Ω·cm2) and as-deposited condition (374.6 Ω·cm2). The enhanced corrosion resistance was attributed to the increased carbide precipitation and optimization of the matrix composition. While heat treatment at both temperatures improved corrosion performance, the 950 °C treatment yielded superior results, suggesting this could be an optimal temperature for enhancing the corrosion resistance of chromium carbide-based hardfacing alloys.
The Potential of Metabolomics in Colorectal Cancer Prognosis
Authors: Fu Chengqu , Liu Xinyi , Wang Le , Hang Dong
Published: December 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide, posing a serious threat to human health. Metabolic reprogramming represents a critical feature in the process of tumor development and progression, encompassing alterations in sugar metabolism, lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and other pathways. Metabolites hold promise as innovative prognostic biomarkers for cancer patients, which is crucial for targeted follow-up care and interventions. This review aims to provide an overview of the progress in research on metabolic biomarkers for predicting the prognosis of CRC. We also discuss the future trends and challenges in this area.
Improved Analysis for Intrinsic Properties of Triaxial Accelerometers to Reduce Calibration Uncertainty
Authors: Geist Jon , Metry Hany , Gonzalez Aldo Adrian Garcia , Rueda Arturo Ruiz , Micheli Giancarlo Barbosa , Dias Ronaldo da Silva , Gaitan Michael
Published: December 2024

We describe a modification of a previously described measurement–analysis protocol to determine the intrinsic properties of triaxial accelerometers by using a measurement protocol based on angular stepwise rotation in the Earth’s gravitational field. This study was conducted with MEMS triaxial accelerometers that were co-integrated in four consumer-grade wireless microsensors. The measurements were carried out on low-cost rotation tables in different laboratories in different countries to simulate the reproducibility environment encountered in inter-comparisons of calibration capabilities. We used a previously described calibration–uncertainty metric to independently characterize the overall uncertainty of the calibration and analysis process. The intrinsic property analysis suggested, and the uncertainty metric confirmed, an unacceptably large error in one combination of microsystem and low-cost rotation table. A simple modification of the analysis protocol provided a substantial improvement in the reproducibility of the protocol with all combinations of microsystem and rotation table. Later, measurements with a high-performance triaxial accelerometer using a significantly more expensive rotation table carried out at one location further validated the usefulness of this modification. The results reported here also demonstrate the existence of unidentified defects in one microsystem and one low-cost rotation table that interact with each other in ways not currently understood to produce anomalously large errors with the old protocol but not with the new protocol.
Concave Microwell Formation Induced by PDMS Water Vapor Permeability for Spheroid Generation
Authors: Lim Min-Cheol , Kim Tai-Yong , Ok Gyeongsik , Kim Hyun Jung , Choi Yun-Sang , Kim Young-Rok
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a novel method for the fabrication of concave microwells involving water vapor permeation through polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). This method leverages the exceptional water vapor permeability of PDMS to enable a scalable and cost-effective fabrication process, addressing the limitations of existing techniques such as photolithography that are resource-intensive and complex. PDMS is more permeable to water vapor than to other gas molecules, resulting in the formation of microwells. Smooth-sloped concave microwells are formed by depositing droplets of 10% ethylene glycol on a PDMS substrate followed by curing at 70 °C and evaporation of water vapor. These microwells exhibit a unique structural gradient that is highly conducive for biological applications. Concave microwells were further used as a platform to generate animal cell spheroids, demonstrating their potential for three-dimensional cell culture. Unlike conventional methods, this approach allows precise control over microwell morphology by simply adjusting droplet size and curing conditions, offering enhanced tunability and reproducibility. The formation yield of these microwells is dependent on the volume of the water droplets, demonstrating the importance of droplet size in controlling microwell morphology. This approach provides a simple and effective method for creating microwells without complex lithographic processes, making it a highly promising tool for a range of biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, cancer research, and high-throughput drug screening.
Structural Design and Simulation of Multi-Detector Same-Platform Laser Gyro Reflector Substrate Defect Detection Prototype
Authors: Wang Jun , Li Zhenyang , Song Maoxin , Xu Zhilong , Luo Huan , Ling Mingchun , Qin Hengwei , Liu Wuhao , Liu Zhenhai , Hong Jin
Published: December 2024

Defect detection and classification in super-high reflector mirrors and their substrates are crucial for manufacturing laser gyroscope systems. This paper presents a prototype designed to meet the requirements for the reflection and transmission of laser gyroscope mirror substrates. The prototype featured two measurement channels (bright field and dark field) and could detect defects on patterned and unpatterned surfaces. Key components were simulated using Ansys software, (Ansys Workbench 2022 R1)which showed a maximum static deformation of 4.65 μm, a resonant frequency of at least around 230 Hz, and a maximum stress of 9.86 MPa under transportation conditions (GJB150.16A-2009). These results confirm the prototype’s stability for optical performance testing and structural design. The experimental testing on laser gyroscope reflector substrates and USAF 1951 plates demonstrated that the prototype effectively detected defects on reflection and transmission surfaces, with a detection resolution that exceeded 170 nm, which met the design requirements.
Enhancing Resistive Switching in AlN-Based Memristors Through Oxidative Al2O3 Layer Formation: A Study on Preparation Techniques and Performance Impact
Authors: Guo Hongxuan , Yao Jiahao , Chen Siyuan , Qian Chong , Pan Xiangyu , Yin Kuibo , Zhu Hao , Gao Xu , Wang Suidong , Sun Litao
Published: December 2024

Aluminum nitride (AlN) with a wide band gap (approximately 6.2 eV) has attractive characteristics, including high thermal conductivity, a high dielectric constant, and good insulating properties, which are suitable for the field of resistive random access memory. AlN thin films were deposited on ITO substrate using the radio-frequency magnetron sputtering technique. Al’s and Au’s top electrodes were deposited on AlN thin films to make a Au/Al/AlN/ITO sandwich structure memristor. The effects of the Al2O3 film on the on/off window and voltage characteristics of the device were investigated. The deposition time and nitrogen content in the sputtering atmosphere were changed to adjust the thickness and composition of AlN films, respectively. The possible mechanism of resistive switching was examined via analyses of the electrical resistive switching characteristics, forming voltage, and switching ratio.
An Enhanced Gas Sensor Data Classification Method Using Principal Component Analysis and Synthetic Minority Over-Sampling Technique Algorithms
Authors: Zeng Xianzhang , Shahzeb Muhammad , Cheng Xin , Shen Qiang , Xiao Hongyang , Xia Cao , Xia Yuanlin , Huang Yubo , Xu Jingfei , Wang Zhuqing
Published: December 2024

This study addresses the challenge of multi-dimensional and small gas sensor data classification using a gelatin–carbon black (CB-GE) composite film sensor, achieving 91.7% accuracy in differentiating gas types (ethanol, acetone, and air). Key techniques include Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for dimensionality reduction, the Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE) for data augmentation, and the Support Vector Machine (SVM) and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) algorithms for classification. PCA improved KNN and SVM classification, boosting the Area Under the Curve (AUC) scores by 15.7% and 25.2%, respectively. SMOTE increased KNN’s accuracy by 2.1%, preserving data structure better than polynomial fitting. The results demonstrate a scalable approach to enhancing classification accuracy under data constraints. This approach shows promise for expanding gas sensor applicability in fields where data limitations previously restricted reliability and effectiveness.
Zheshengite, Pb4ZnZn2(AsO4)2(PO4)2(OH)2: A New Mineral of the Dongchuanite Group and the Influence of As–P Isomorphic Substitution on Unit-Cell Parameters of Dongchuanite Group Minerals
Authors: Sun Ningyue , Li Guowu , Xue Yuan , Shen Hongtao , Hao Jinhua
Published: December 2024

Zheshengite (IMA2022-011), Pb4ZnZn2(AsO4)2(PO4)2(OH)2, is a new mineral from Sanguozhuang Village in the eastern Dongchuan Copper Ore Field, Yunnan Province, China. The new mineral is named after Zhesheng Ma (1937–). Zheshengite occurs as prismatic single crystals with chisel-like terminations on hemimorphite, with crystal sizes ranging from 0.02 to 0.05 mm. It is a brittle mineral with irregular fractures, a Mohs hardness of 2½ to 3, perfect cleavage on {011}, and a calculated density of 6.26 g/cm3. The empirical formula of zheshengite, based on 18 O atoms per formula unit, is (Pb4.12Ca0.01)∑4.13(Zn0.83Cu0.23Fe0.04)∑1.10Zn2.00[(As0.90P0.10)∑1.00O4]2[(P0.94Si0.01)∑0.95O4]2(OH)2. Zheshengite exhibits a triclinic structure (space group P−1, no. 2), with unit-cell parameters: a = 4.7746(4) Å, b = 8.4920 (7) Å, c = 10.4056 (8) Å, α = 97.087 (7)°, β = 101.060 (7)°, γ = 92.996 (7)°, V = 409.66 (6) Å3, and Z = 1. As a member of the dongchuanite group, zheshengite features a dongchuanite-type structure. This study reveals the impact of As–P isomorphic substitution on unit-cell parameters in the dongchuanite group, identifying correlations between As content and changes in parameters a and V, which may serve as diagnostic indicators for dongchuanite group minerals. In addition, the structure studies of zheshengite may have implications for environmental protection.
Assessment of Gravity Deportment of Gold-Bearing Ores: Gravity Recoverable Gold Test
Authors: Šigut Oldřich , Široký Tomáš , Janáková Iva , Střelecký Radek , Čablík Vladimír
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the potential of low-grade gold deposits in modern mining, particularly in the context of declining high-grade resources. The primary method for processing these ores was gravity separation with the Knelson concentrator. A GRG test (gravity recoverable gold test) was conducted on two gold-bearing samples: a polymetallic Cu-Zn-Au ore from Zlaté Hory–Západ (Czech Republic) containing refractory gold and an ore with free gold from Kašperské Hory (Czech Republic). The study evaluated the effectiveness of the GRG test for gold recovery from these ores. The results showed that the Kašperské Hory sample predominantly contained relatively large gold grains, with recovery rates dropping significantly upon finer comminution. In the sample from the Zlaté Hory–Západ deposit, the greatest GRG release occurred in the first and last test stages, suggesting that larger sulfide grains with bound gold passed predominantly in the first stage, while fine gold with residual sulfides passed in the third. Both samples achieved high overall GRG recovery rates, with 64.2% for Kašperské Hory and more than 66% for Zlaté Hory–Západ, demonstrating the efficacy of centrifugal concentrators for both ores.