bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potato Late Blight Outbreak: A Study on Advanced Classification Models Based on Meteorological Data
Authors: Bagchi Parama , Sawicka Barbara , Stamenkovic Zoran , Marković Dušan , Bhattacharjee Debotosh
Published: December 2024

While past research has emphasized the importance of late blight infection detection and classification, anticipating the potato late blight infection is crucial from the economic point of view as it helps to significantly reduce the production cost. Furthermore, it is necessary to minimize the exposure of potatoes to harmful chemicals and pesticides due to their potential adverse effects on the human immune system. Our work is based on the precise classification of late blight infections in potatoes in European countries using real-time data from 1980 to 2000. To predict the potato late blight outbreak, we incorporated several hybrid machine learning models, as well as a unique combination of stacking classifier and logistic regression, achieving the highest prediction accuracy of 87.22%. Further enhancements of these models and the use of new data sources may lead to a higher late blight prediction accuracy and, consequently, a higher efficiency in managing potatoes’ health.
Causes and Effects of Psychoactive Substance Abuse Among the Youth in Zimbabwe: The Case of Makokoba High Density Suburb, Bulawayo
Authors: Mugari Ishmael , Bushu Rejoyce
Published: December 2024

Psychoactive substance abuse has become a pandemic in most parts of the globe. This study sought to assess the contributory factors and impacts of psychoactive substance abuse among the youth in Makokoba—a high-density residential area in Zimbabwe’s second largest city, Bulawayo. A mixed methods research design was used on a sample of 122 respondents who were invited to participate in the study. Data were gathered using questionnaires and semi-structured in-depth interviews. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 was used to analyse quantitative data, while the qualitative component was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed peer pressure, broken homes, poor parental care, and poverty as the main causes of psychoactive substance abuse among the youth. Development of health problems, violent behaviour, disrespect for the elderly, and teenage pregnancies were considered as the major effects of psychoactive substance abuse. Given the roles that peer pressure and the family environment played in psychoactive substance abuse among the youth, the study recommends family and community-based measures. Close monitoring at the family level in educational and religious institutions as well as socio-economic development are the key prescriptive measures recommended by this study.
Visual Representations of Older People’s Sexuality in Popular Cartoons
Authors: Loos Eugène , Gewirtz-Meydan Ateret
Published: December 2024

This study explores the portrayal of older adults’ sexuality in popular cartoons, a medium often overlooked in discussions about aging and sexual representation. The research examines how visual and textual signs in cartoons produce humor by reinforcing stereotypes and normalizing judgments about later-life sexual behavior. Using a visual social semiotic approach, the study analyzes a selection of cartoons, focusing on how these depictions reflect societal attitudes towards aging and sexuality. The findings reveal that older individuals are often portrayed in a stigmatized manner, with their sexual desires and activities depicted as either comical or abnormal. This contributes to the marginalization of older adults in sexual discourse and perpetuates ageist stereotypes. The study concludes that while these representations may appear harmless, they play a significant role in shaping public perceptions and can negatively impact the self-image and sexual well-being of older individuals. Future research should further investigate how older adults perceive these portrayals and their implications for societal attitudes towards aging and sexuality.
Community-Engaged Research Projects in School Settings: Science Teachers’ Practices and Reflections
Authors: Kim Won Jung
Published: December 2024

Community-engaged research (CER) is a justice-oriented research paradigm that emphasizes equitable and reciprocal knowledge co-production with community members and organizations, sharing power, benefits, contributions, and responsibilities among all participants. This study explores nine teachers’ cases of facilitating CER projects in their respective school settings, aimed to support students’ critical consciousness and action for environmental issues and injustices. This study contributes to educational research by adapting an existing framework for CER for environmental justice that can guide K-12 teaching and research on it. By analyzing data from teacher community meetings and individual interviews in the CER framework, this study articulates classroom practices that addressed the Distribution, Procedure, Recognition, and Transformation dimensions of CER, as well as the positive impacts and challenges of these implementations. The findings report teacher practices categorized by the CER dimensions they addressed (the what of the practices) and the instructional strategies they employed (the how of the practices). The findings also compare the frequency of these practices as an indicator of variation in teacher practices and illustrate this variation through three teachers’ CER cases. The findings also document the positive outcomes of CER in student empowerment, as well as the challenges related to time, resources, assessment, and stakeholder skepticism, underscoring the need for systemic support to enhance CER in school settings. The discussion focuses on the implications of these findings and ways to address the identified challenges through future research and institutional efforts.
Laminated Information Encryption with Printer Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Han Xiang , Shen Li , Yao Lixing , Liu Yu
Published: December 2024

In order to improve the security of information encryption, this paper proposes a novel method based on laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technology in conjunction with a commercial general-purpose inkjet printer. A “sandwich” model, comprising three layers of a black ink block, a blue ink layer containing encrypted information, and another black ink block in order to render the information layer undetectable by other conventional optical imagers, was proposed. Because of the lower resolution requirements and better error tolerance of the Quick Response (QR) code, it was used as encryption information carrier. The “sandwich” structure was printed onto original paper using a commercial inkjet printer. The spatial distribution of the “LIBS secret key” on the paper was analyzed by LIBS spectra at different locations. After baseline removal, normalization, and spectral superposition, the contrast of decrypted images is enhanced to extract hidden information effectively. This method has the advantages of high security, low cost, and simple fabrication. It provides a new method with a potential application prospect for LIBS in the field of information encryption.
Environmental Fate and Sustainable Management of Pesticides in Soils: A Critical Review Focusing on Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Sarker Aniruddha , Kim Do , Jeong Won-Tae
Published: December 2024

Pesticides are inevitable agrochemicals employed as plant protection agents and their application follows good agricultural practice (GAP). Although pesticides are primarily used for plant protection purposes, the residual pesticides may pose a threat to the next crops and/or off-target biota. Another important aspect of applied pesticides is the transformation into toxic metabolites. As a result, misuse or overuse of pesticides can lead to raised residual uncertainty, hidden risk of transformed metabolites, and potential risk to off-target biota. As per pesticide safety guidelines, regulations for the maximum limit of residual pesticides, addressing toxic metabolites derived from parent pesticides, and managing the potential risk of pesticides for off-targets are considered vital components. Despite the countable number of studies that have already been published on pesticide fate, residual risk, and metabolism in soils and plants, several vital research gaps remain untouched. In this study, the vital research gap of pesticide fate and transport is explored through vital keyword searches, followed by sorting of relevant articles using scholarly search engines. According to the study outcomes, residual uncertainty, secondary pollution, diversified fate and transport, and toxic metabolites, including their persistence, were detected as key research pitfalls. Thus, this paper critically addresses the current trends and research gaps and suggests specific recommendations for pesticide fate and potential risk studies.
The Role of ESG Participation in Sports Sponsorship: Enhancing Consumer Purchase Intention Through Electronic Word of Mouth (eWOM)
Authors: Chou Ya-Lun , Chen Chen-Yueh , Lin Ting-Hsiang , Zhou Yi-Wen , Lee Yuan-Fu
Published: December 2024

This study explored how fans’ perceptions of sponsor participation in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities influence attitudes toward the sponsor, sponsor image, electronic word of mouth (eWOM), and purchase intentions. Limited research has focused on the interactions between sports sponsorship and ESG activities. This study filled this research gap by considering the case of the Rakuten Monkeys, a professional baseball team in Taiwan, and its sponsors. Grounded in the theory of planned behavior, this study investigated how fans’ perceptions of sponsor participation in ESG initiatives affect their purchase intentions through sponsor attitudes, sponsor image, and eWOM. A total of 800 Rakuten Monkeys fans were recruited for this study, and the study hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling. The results indicate that all investigated paths were significant. That is, fans’ perceptions of sponsor participation in ESG activities significantly enhance their attitudes toward the sponsor and sponsor image, which in turn positively influence their eWOM and purchase intentions. This study has theoretical and practical implications for enhancing brand image and consumer purchase intentions through ESG activities. The study contributes valuable insights that can be used by sports sponsors for developing marketing strategies.
Impact of Substrates, Volatile Fatty Acids, and Microbial Communities on Biohydrogen Production: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jalil Anam , Yu Zhisheng
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen is becoming recognized as a clean and sustainable energy carrier, with microbial fermentation and electrolysis serving critical roles in its production. This paper provides a thorough meta-analysis of BioH2 production across diverse substrates, microbial populations, and experimental settings. Statistical techniques, including ANOVA, principal component analysis (PCA), and heatmaps, were used to evaluate the influence of various parameters on the hydrogen yield. The mean hydrogen generation from the reviewed studies was 168.57 ± 52.09 mL H2/g substrate, with food waste and glucose demonstrating considerably greater hydrogen production than mixed food waste (p < 0.05). The inhibition of methanogens with inhibitors like 2-bromoethanesulfonate (BES) and chloramphenicol (CES) enhanced hydrogen production by as much as 25%, as demonstrated in microbial electrolysis cell systems. PCA results highlighted Clostridium spp., Thermotoga spp., and Desulfovibrio spp. as the most dominant microbial species, with Clostridium spp. contributing up to 80% of the YH2 in fermentation systems. The study highlights synergistic interactions between dominant and less dominant microbial species under optimized environmental conditions (pH 5.5–6.0, 65 °C), emphasizing their complementary roles in enhancing H2 production. Volatile fatty acid regulation, particularly acetate and butyrate accumulation, correlated positively with hydrogen production (r = 0.75, p < 0.01). These findings provide insights into optimizing biohydrogen systems through microbial consortia management and substrate selection, offering a potential way for scalable and efficient H2 production.
Sequestration of Methylene Blue Dye in a Fixed-Bed Column Using Activated Carbon-Infused Polyurethane Composite Adsorbent Derived from Coconut Oil
Authors: Estrada Renz John R. , Tomon Tomas Ralph B. , Fernandez Rubie Mae D. , Omisol Christine Joy M. , Dumancas Gerard G. , Alguno Arnold C. , Ramos Maria Sheila K. , Malaluan Roberto M. , Lubguban Arnold A.
Published: December 2024

In this research, a new method of treating wastewater is introduced using a highly recyclable and sustainable material derived from coconut oil. This material aims to address the issues commonly faced by conventional sorbents, such as limited performance and costly production. These challenges impede a sorbent material from unlocking its full utility in treating wastewater. An exceptional sorbent material was synthesized by incorporating coconut shell-based activated carbon (AC) into a coconut oil-based polyurethane matrix to produce an activated carbon-infused polyurethane (ACIP). The effective adsorption was elucidated by the synergistic interaction between the ACIP material and methylene blue (MB) through electrostatic attraction, π-π interactions, and hydrogen bonding. To provide an exhaustive analysis of the ACIP material, several analytical techniques were employed, including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). A detailed assessment using a fixed-bed column setup investigated its adsorption behavior by encompassing various factors such as inlet concentration, adsorbent bed height, feed flow rate, and solution pH. Results revealed that the ACIP composite exhibited a maximum adsorption capacity of 28.25 mg g−1. Empirical evidence with a high correlation coefficient (R2 > 0.93) obtained from the Thomas and Yoon–Nelson model suggests the suitability of the composite material to operate efficiently under these diverse circumstances. Notably, after five consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles, ACIP demonstrated its remarkable reusability by maintaining 86% of its regeneration efficiency. Given its outstanding performance and potential for scalability, this innovative ACIP composite presents a more sustainable approach to addressing wastewater issues within industrial environments.
From Waste to Taste: Coffee By-Products as Starter Cultures for Sustainable Fermentation and Improved Coffee Quality
Authors: Polanía Rivera Anna María , López Silva Jhennifer , Torres-Valenzuela Laura , Plaza-Dorado José Luis
Published: December 2024

Utilizing coffee by-products in the fermentation process of coffee offers a sustainable strategy by repurposing agricultural waste and enhancing product quality. This study evaluates the effect of applying a starter culture, derived from coffee residues, on the dynamics of reducing and total sugars during coffee fermentation, as well as the composition of aromatic compounds, organic acids, and the sensory profile of coffee inoculated with yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus), in comparison to a spontaneously fermented sample. Volatile compounds were identified and quantified using dynamic headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS/GC-MS), with predominant detection of 2-furancarboxaldehyde, 5-methyl; 2-furanmethanol; and furfural—compounds associated with caramel, nut, and sweet aromas from the roasting process. A reduction in sugars (glucose, fructose, and sucrose) occurred over the 36 h fermentation period. Lactic acid (2.79 g/L) was the predominant organic acid, followed by acetic acid (0.69 g/L). The application of the inoculum improved the sensory quality of the coffee, achieving a score of 86.6 in evaluations by Q-graders, compared to 84 for the control sample. Additionally, descriptors such as red apple, honey, and citrus were prominent, contributing to a uniform and balanced flavor profile. These findings indicate that controlled fermentation with starter cultures derived from coffee by-products enhances sustainability in coffee production. It achieves this by supporting a circular economy, reducing reliance on chemical additives, and improving product quality. This approach aligns with sustainable development goals by promoting environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social well-being within the coffee industry.
Improvement of Engine Combustion and Emission Characteristics by Fuel Property Modulation
Authors: Liang Kaijie , Liang Jinguang , Li Guowei , Shao Zhengri , Jiang Zhipeng , Feng Jincheng
Published: December 2024

The sustainability of diesel engines has come to the forefront of research with the growing global interest in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency. The aim of this paper is to support the goal of sustainable development by improving the volatile properties of diesel fuel to promote cleaner combustion in engines. In order to study the effect of diesel fuel volatility on spraying, combustion, and emission, the tests were carried out with the help of the constant volume chamber (CVC) test rig and an engine test rig, respectively. CVC test: A high-speed video camera recorded the spray characteristics of different volatile fuels in a constant-volume combustion bomb. The effects of different rail pressures and ambient back pressures on the spray characteristics were investigated. Engine test: The combustion and emission characteristics of different volatile diesel fuels under different load conditions (25%, 50%, 75%) were investigated in a four-stroke direct-injection diesel engine with the engine speed fixed at 2000 rpm. The test results show that as the rail pressure increases and the ambient pressure decreases, the spray characteristics of the fuels tend to increase; for the more volatile fuels, although reducing the spray tip penetration, the spray projected area and spray cone angle increase, which is conducive to improving the homogeneity of the fuel and air mixing in the cylinder. The improvement of fuel volatility can form more and better-quality mixtures within the ignition delay time (ID), resulting in a 1–2% increase in peak cylinder pressure and a 2–4% increase in peak heat release. For different loads, pre-injection heat release is generated to redefine the ID and combustion duration (CD). Improved fuel volatility effectively reduces carbon monoxide (CO) emissions by about 8–10% and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions by about 13–16%, but it increases nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by about 8–11%. Analyzing from the perspective of particulate matter (PM), combined with the aromatic content of volatile fuels, it is recommended to use fuels with moderate volatility and aromatic content under low load conditions, and at medium to large loads, the volatility of the fuel has less weight on particulates and more weight on aromatics, so it is desirable to use the fuel with the lowest volatility and lowest aromatic content of the fuel selected.
Research on the Influencing Factors of Urban Community Residents’ Willingness to Segregate Waste Based on Structural Equation Model
Authors: Luo Wenjian , Yu Ziqin , Zhou Panling , Ren Yuanyuan , Lv Hua
Published: December 2024

Segregation of household waste is an important means of achieving resource recovery, minimization and harmlessness of waste, which is of great significance in addressing the dilemma of the “rubbish siege”. However, at present, urban community residents still face many challenges in the practice of household waste classification, such as lack of classification knowledge, imperfect classification facilities and weak and persistent classification behavior, which seriously restrict the effective promotion of garbage classification work. In this paper, a model of the factors influencing community residents’ willingness to separate household waste was developed based on the theory of planned behavior and tested by using structural equation modeling (SEM) with a sample of 218 surveys conducted among residents of community X in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province. It was found that urban community residents were generally willing to sort their household waste subjectively. The five factors of waste sorting recognition, intrinsic moral constraints, group behavioral incentives, time and space factors and waste sorting facilities positively influenced urban community residents’ willingness to sort household waste. Government job satisfaction and legal and regulatory constraints had no significant influence on urban community residents’ willingness to sort household waste and did not reach a statistically significant level. Based on this, in the future, we should strengthen public education, enhance group behavioral incentives, improve supporting infrastructure, standardize and improve laws and regulations to improve residents’ willingness to separate household waste and promote the process of urban household waste segregation in China.
Technical, Economic and Environmental Assessment of Xylitol Production in a Biorefinery Platform Toward a Circular Economy
Authors: Clauser Nicolás M. , Fit Cintia G. , Cardozo Rocío E. , Rivaldi Johana A. , Felissia Fernando E. , Area María C. , Vallejos María E.
Published: December 2024

New biobased processes and products are emerging to replace conventional ones in the search for sustainable development. Xylitol is one of the most commercially valuable products from xylan-rich lignocellulosic biomass. Xylitol has multiple applications in the pharmaceutical, food, nutraceutical, and beverage industries. Recent research focuses on obtaining xylose from low-cost lignocellulosic materials through the biological route, optimizing xylitol conversion, improving byproduct removal, and increasing crystallization speed. The biological route can be an environmentally friendly alternative due to the possibility of lower energy demand and utilizing renewable feedstocks which are key factors to reach sustainability. Several integration strategies are being evaluated and are critical to developing a commercial platform. Process integration can considerably reduce the demand for energy and reagents. Also, the value-added products produced alongside xylitol are crucial, and these products are usually energy generation and bioethanol. Further, new value-added products show promising results and are relevant to improving the economic performance of the processes. The market trends of xylitol are expected to reach close to USD 1.5 billion in 2030. In addition, the improvement needed in the conversion steps and obtained yields, producing commercial-scale xylitol through the biological route, is a promising alternative to finding a more sustainable way to produce xylitol.
Multi-Scale Effect of Land Use Landscape on Basin Streamflow Impacts in Loess Hilly and Gully Region of Loess Plateau: Insights from the Sanchuan River Basin, China
Authors: Lei Zexin , Zhang Shifang , Zhang Wenzheng , Zhao Xuqiang , Gao Jing
Published: December 2024

The gullies and valleys of the Loess Plateau, as key ecological zones for soil erosion control, play a critical role in the region’s sustainable development under increasing urbanization. This study employed the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to analyze the impacts of land use/cover changes (LUCC) on runoff at multiple spatial scales and locations within the Sanchuan River Basin (SRB) in the loess hilly and gully region. The methodology integrates SWAT modeling with LUCC scenario analysis, focusing on spatial and scale effects of land use changes on hydrological processes. The results revealed distinct spatial differences, with diminishing LUCC impacts on streamflow from the upper to lower reaches of the basin, regardless of land use type. Scale effects were also evident: grassland effectively controlled runoff within 300 m of riparian zones, while forest land was most effective beyond 750 m. A relatively insensitive range for runoff changes was observed between 300 and 750 m. These findings highlight the critical role of LUCC in influencing runoff patterns and underscore the importance of region-specific and scale-sensitive land use management strategies. This research provides valuable guidance for sustainable land planning, particularly in riparian zones, to enhance runoff control and optimize ecological benefits.
Research on Factors Influencing Global Carbon Emissions and Forecasting Models
Authors: Ji Ruizhi
Published: December 2024

Investigating the determinants of global carbon emissions and developing carbon emission models are essential to meet the 2050 carbon neutrality goal. This paper initially examines the primary factors shaping global carbon emissions over the past two decades, employing case studies and panel data analysis. Subsequently, a CNN-LSTM carbon emissions prediction model is established using data from Hebei Province, China, spanning from 2005 to 2022. This study reveals that global carbon emissions are predominantly affected by elements such as population, economic growth, industrial activities, energy consumption, environmental conditions, and technological advancements. By incorporating these variables, the CNN-LSTM model proposed in this research significantly enhances the average relative accuracy of carbon emission forecasts, thereby contributing substantially to global efforts in energy conservation and emission reduction.
Enhancing Sustainable Road Construction: Evaluation of the Mechanical and Durability Properties of Stabilized Earth-Based Pavement Materials
Authors: Tarhan Yeşim , Kabakuş Nuriye
Published: December 2024

The materials traditionally used in the construction of flexible and rigid pavements in modern road infrastructure present challenges in achieving sustainable development goals. Advances in technology have introduced the use of different pavement material mixes, leading to the introduction of earth-based alternatives. These materials are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, recyclable, and offer excellent insulation properties. Stabilization of earth-based materials improves their mechanical properties, reducing road construction costs and increasing durability. The present study investigates the mechanical and durability properties of earth-based materials stabilized with various additives, including cement, lime, polymer, and biopolymer, over 28 and 56 days. Fresh properties are assessed using unit volume weight, flow table, air content, and fall cone tests, while hardened properties are assessed using flexural strength, compressive strength, and water absorption. Microstructural analysis is carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The cement-stabilized samples show improved strength and durability, with the 5% cement group showing a 67% increase in compressive strength over the control group and the 10% cement group showing over 200% higher compressive strength. These results suggest that stabilized earth-based materials could provide a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to conventional pavements for low-traffic roads.
Research on Ecological Compensation Mechanism Based on Ecosystem Service Value: A Case Study of the Tingjiang River Basin
Authors: Sun Yanwei , Xiao Shengjun , Wang Jilong , Yu Junjie , Peng Bo
Published: December 2024

Ecological compensation is one of the important measures to coordinate regional ecological protection and economic development. As the only inter-provincial river in Fujian Province and the second inter-provincial watershed of the eco-compensation pilot in China, the Tingjiang River basin has attracted increasing attention from policy makers and scholars. This study aims to systematically analyze the ecological compensation mechanism and improve the effectiveness of ecological protection in the Tingjiang River basin. In this paper, ecosystem service value (ESV) is used as a criterion for establishing ecological compensation standards. Based on the land cover datasets from 2010 to 2020, the spatial distribution and the dynamic changes of ESV were determined. Subsequently, the priority and standards of ecological compensation were established according to the level of the socio-economic development. Finally, the horizontal ecological compensation was determined by combining the actual benefits and willingness-to-pay of downstream beneficiary regions. The results indicate the following findings: (1) The ESV of the Tingjiang River basin exhibited a decreasing trend over the past decade. It decreased from CNY 70.72 billion in 2010 to CNY 69.05 billion in 2020, with a rate of change of −2.37%; (2) The growth of GDP in the research area has led to a decrease in the priority and standards of ecological compensation. The ecological compensation quota shows a decreasing trend from upstream to downstream, that is, Changting county (33%) > Wuping county (27%) > Shanghang county (21%) > Yongding district (19%); (3) The amounts of horizontal ecological compensation that Guangdong province need to pay are CNY 224 million, 166 million, and 109 million in 2010, 2015, and 2020, respectively. The findings of this research can not only optimize the allocation of ecological compensation, but also provide a reference for other countries/regions to carry out relevant research work.
Kernel Adaptive Filtering Algorithm Based on Hyperbolic Tangent Mixed Error Function
Authors: Hu Yongbing , Bi Chenchong , Chen Yong
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes an adaptive filtering algorithm based on the symmetry Kernel Hyperbolic Tangent Mixed Error Criterion (KHTMC), aimed at addressing the identification of nonlinear systems under non-Gaussian noise environments. The algorithm optimizes signal processing by constructing a mixed cost function that combines the symmetry logarithmic square error and the hyperbolic tangent function and integrates it with the kernel adaptive filtering method. Simulation results show that, compared to existing kernel adaptive filtering algorithms, the KHTMC algorithm exhibits significant advantages in terms of convergence speed and steady-state mean square error. It demonstrates strong robustness and tracking performance, especially when dealing with mixed non-Gaussian noise. Therefore, this algorithm shows great potential in signal processing applications under complex noise conditions, offering a more reliable and efficient solution.
HybridGNN: A Self-Supervised Graph Neural Network for Efficient Maximum Matching in Bipartite Graphs
Authors: Pan Chun-Hu , Qu Yi , Yao Yao , Wang Mu-Jiang-Shan
Published: December 2024

Solving maximum matching problems in bipartite graphs is critical in fields such as computational biology and social network analysis. This study introduces HybridGNN, a novel Graph Neural Network model designed to efficiently address complex matching problems at scale. HybridGNN leverages a combination of Graph Attention Networks (GATv2), Graph SAGE (SAGEConv), and Graph Isomorphism Networks (GIN) layers to enhance computational efficiency and model performance. Through extensive ablation experiments, we identify that while the SAGEConv layer demonstrates suboptimal performance in terms of accuracy and F1-score, configurations incorporating GATv2 and GIN layers show significant improvements. Specifically, in six-layer GNN architectures, the combinations of GATv2 and GIN layers with ratios of 4:2 and 5:1 yield superior accuracy and F1-score. Therefore, we name these GNN configurations HybridGNN1 and HybridGNN2. Additionally, techniques such as mixed precision training, gradient accumulation, and Jumping Knowledge networks are integrated to further optimize performance. Evaluations on an email communication dataset reveal that HybridGNNs outperform traditional algorithms such as the Hopcroft–Karp algorithm, the Hungarian algorithm, and the Blossom/Edmonds’ algorithm, particularly for large and complex graphs. These findings highlight HybridGNN’s robust capability to solve maximum matching problems in bipartite graphs, making it a powerful tool for analyzing large-scale and intricate graph data. Furthermore, our study aligns with the goals of the Symmetry and Asymmetry Study in Graph Theory special issue by exploring the role of symmetry in bipartite graph structures. By leveraging GNNs, we address the challenges related to symmetry and asymmetry in graph properties, thereby improving the reliability and fault tolerance of complex networks.
The Gradient of Spontaneous Oscillations Across Cortical Hierarchies Measured by Wearable Magnetoencephalography
Authors: Liang Xiaoyu , Ma Yuyu , Wu Huanqi , Wang Ruilin , Wang Ruonan , Liu Changzeng , Gao Yang , Ning Xiaolin
Published: December 2024

The spontaneous oscillations within the brain are intimately linked to the hierarchical structures of the cortex, as evidenced by the cross-cortical gradient between parametrized spontaneous oscillations and cortical locations. Despite the significance of both peak frequency and peak time in characterizing these oscillations, limited research has explored the relationship between peak time and cortical locations. And no studies have demonstrated that the cross-cortical gradient can be measured by optically pumped magnetometer-based magnetoencephalography (OPM-MEG). Therefore, the cross-cortical gradient of parameterized spontaneous oscillation was analyzed for oscillations recorded by OPM-MEG using restricted maximum likelihood estimation with a linear mixed-effects model. It was validated that OPM-MEG can measure the cross-cortical gradient of spontaneous oscillations. Furthermore, results demonstrated the difference in the cross-cortical gradient between spontaneous oscillations during eye-opening and eye-closing conditions. The methods and conclusions offer potential to integrate electrophysiological and structural information of the brain, which contributes to the analysis of oscillatory fluctuations across the cortex recorded by OPM-MEG.
Genotype–Phenotype Correlation in a Couple in Which the Wife Is a Carrier of the Beta-Thalassemia Trait and the Husband Is a Carrier of a Mutation in the ALAS2 Gene: Both Gene Defects Are Associated with Non-Iron-Deficiency Microcytic Anemia
Authors: Dell’Edera Domenico , Centoducati Carmela , Allegretti Arianna , La Rocca Francesco , Persia Brunilde
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Generally, microcytic anaemia is caused by sideropenia or a genetic gap. The suspicion that microcytic anaemia is caused by a genetic gap must always be considered in the face of an inadequate response to martial therapy. The aim of this paper is to highlight how biochemical diagnosis alone is sometimes not sufficient to understand the cause of microcytic anaemia. For this reason, for a correct genotype–phenotype correlation, it is essential to identify the defective gene underlying the microcytic anaemia. Detailed Case Description: This case concerns a married couple who both have microcytic anaemia. They came to our attention because the lady, pregnant at 12 weeks, underwent screening for chromosomal abnormalities using combined tests in the first trimester of pregnancy. A biochemical screening performed ten years earlier showed that both spouses were healthy carriers of the beta-thalassemia trait. A careful analysis of the biochemical data and an in-depth molecular diagnosis of the alpha and beta globin genes showed that the woman was a healthy carrier of the beta-thalassemia trait while the husband was a healthy carrier of a mutation in the ALAS2 gene. Analysis of the biochemical data of her husband and family members revealed that she had X-linked microcytic sideroblastic anaemia caused by an alteration in the function of the ALAS2 (5′-Aminolevulinate Synthase 2) gene located on the short arm of the X chromosome (Xp11.21). Discussion and Conclusions: This result is very relevant as, during genetic counselling, we explained to the couple that invasive prenatal diagnosis was not necessary as there is no risk of procreating a transfusion-dependent individual.
Investigating the Potential Effects of 6PPDQ on Prostate Cancer Through Network Toxicology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Song Yuanzhi , Weng Wuhong , Wu Shengde
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine-quinone (6PPDQ), as a newly discovered environmental toxin, has been found more frequently in our living conditions. The literature reports that damage to the reproductive and cardiovascular system is associated with exposure to 6PPDQ. However, the relationship between 6PPDQ and cancer still requires more investigation. This research aims to investigate the association between 6PPDQ and prostate cancer. (2) Methods and Results: Based on the data retrieved from the Pharmmapper, CTD, SEA, SwissTargetPrediction, GeneCard, and OMIM databases, we summarized 239 potential targets utilizing the Venn tool. Through the STRING network database and Cytoscape software, we constructed a PPI network and confirmed ten core targets, including IGF1R, PIK3R1, PTPN11, EGFR, SRC, GRB2, JAK2, SOS1, KDR, and IRS1. We identified the potential pathways through which 6PPDQ acts on these core targets using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Ultimately, through molecular docking methods, 6PPDQ binds closely with these ten core targets. These findings indicate that 6PPDQ may influence the proteins related to prostate cancer and may be linked to prostate cancer via several known signaling pathways. (3) Conclusions: This article employs innovative network toxicology to elucidate the prostate carcinogenic effects of 6PPDQ through its modulation of specific vital genes and signaling pathways, thereby establishing a foundational platform for future investigations into the impact of 6PPDQ on prostate cancer and potentially other tumors.
Hardness-Dependent Freshwater Quality Criteria for the Protection of Aquatic Organisms for Cadmium in China
Authors: Zhang Zeya , Huang Rui , Shen Zhongjie , Fan Yili , Feng Chenglian , Bai Yingchen
Published: December 2024

Cadmium poses a significant threat to freshwater aquatic organisms and ecosystems, making it essential to establish regional freshwater quality criteria (FWQC) in China to safeguard these organisms. The toxicity database for cadmium covered 249 acute toxicity data from 52 species (seven phyla and 27 families) and 62 chronic toxicity data from 21 species (four phyla and 12 families). During short-term exposure, Morone saxatilis displayed the most sensitivity to cadmium, whereas Daphnia magna showed the most sensitivity in long-term exposure scenarios. Significant correlations were identified between water hardness and the toxicity data for cadmium, with the acute toxicity coefficient (KATD) at 1.0227 (n = 52, p < 0.05) and the chronic toxicity coefficient (KCTD) at 0.4983 (n = 21, p < 0.05). With the species sensitivity distribution method, the short-term freshwater quality criteria (S-FWQC) were derived with a normal distribution as the best fit (R2 0.9793), while the long-term freshwater quality criteria (L-FWQC) were calculated using a logistic distribution as the best fit (R2 0.9686). The formulas for the S-FWQC and L-FWQC were represented as 10(1.0227×lg(H)−1.5444) and 10(0.4983×lg(H)−1.7549), respectively, with water hardness serving as an independent variable. This study offers valuable insights for improving the management of cadmium to protect freshwater aquatic organisms in China.
Data-Driven Approach to Understanding Complex Urban Phenomena: A Preliminary Study on the Gentrification of H Street NE in Washington, DC
Authors: Cader Muieen , Yen Tsung-Wen , Nanetti Andrea , Cheong Siew Ann
Published: December 2024

Cities are increasingly recognized as complex systems, emerging through conditional and history-dependent urban processes. To understand a complex urban phenomenon to the point where we can act on it, we need a quantitative yet holistic approach. In this paper, we report on a preliminary study on the gentrification of H Street NE in Washington, DC, USA. Popular accounts claim that this started in 2016, with wealthier new residents displacing poorer old residents. When we examined a cross-section of demographic, income, housing, commercial activity, and social activity data, we found a classic gentrification sweeping over H Street NE starting around 2000. These slow changes drove rapid changes in renter proportions and rents in one of the five census tracts making up the community, a wave of church closures, and a sudden doubling of restaurants and nonclassified businesses. Our results suggest that the gentrification of H Street NE is a small messy piece in a broader picture of urban transformation in Washington, DC.
Seasonal Shifts in Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Other Respiratory Viruses After the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Eight-Year Retrospective Study in Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: Quintero-Salgado Ernestina , Briseno-Ramírez Jaime , Vega-Cornejo Gabriel , Damian-Negrete Roberto , Rosales-Chavez Gustavo , De Arcos-Jiménez Judith Carolina
Published: December 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic profoundly disrupted the epidemiology of respiratory viruses, driven primarily by widespread non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) such as social distancing and masking. This eight-year retrospective study examines the seasonal patterns and incidence of influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other respiratory viruses across pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic phases in Jalisco, Mexico. Weekly case counts were analyzed using an interrupted time series (ITS) model, segmenting the timeline into these three distinct phases. Significant reductions in respiratory virus circulation were observed during the pandemic, followed by atypical resurgences as NPIs were relaxed. Influenza displayed alternating subtype dominance, with influenza A H3 prevailing in 2022, influenza B surging in 2023, and influenza A H1N1 increasing thereafter, reflecting potential immunity gaps. RSV activity was marked by earlier onset and higher intensity post-pandemic. Other viruses, including human rhinovirus/enterovirus (HRV/HEV) and parainfluenza virus (HPIV), showed altered dynamics, with some failing to return to pre-pandemic seasonality. These findings underscore the need for adaptive surveillance systems and vaccination strategies to address evolving viral patterns. Future research should investigate the long-term public health implications, focusing on vaccination, clinical outcomes, and healthcare preparedness.
Addressing Barriers Newcomer Families Face When Obtaining Routine Childhood Vaccines in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Wong King Yuen Siobhan M. , Doucette Emily J. , Ford Caitlin , Fullerton Madison M. , Vetro Ginamaria , Koyama Amanda , Hu Jia , Constantinescu Cora
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: As the newcomer population in Canada continues to grow, we aimed to collaborate with newcomer families arriving in an urban center in Alberta, Canada to identify strategies to overcome identified barriers newcomers face in obtaining routine childhood vaccines (RCVs). Methods: We recruited newcomers living in Calgary, Alberta to participate in a workshop utilizing the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) to develop solutions addressing barriers to obtaining RCVs. Ranking exercises helped identify the top-proposed interventions based on perceived impact and feasibility for implementation. Based on the identified need for translated vaccine resources, infographics on school-based vaccines were developed. The infographics were pilot-tested in a first-language focus group before the final product was translated into 10 different languages. Results: Consensus from 15 NGT workshop participants identified five key solutions to facilitate obtaining routine childhood immunizations: (1) Increasing access to reliable vaccine information; (2) Ensuring vaccine information and healthcare services are available in different languages; (3) Increasing vaccine appointment availability and optimizing the booking system for ease of navigation; (4) Increasing the role of family doctors in vaccine counseling and administration; (5) Streamlining vaccine record tracking. We developed infographics on the vaccines children in Alberta can receive through school-based vaccine programs and these were pilot-tested with 16 participants in a first-language (Arabic) focus group. Conclusions: The collaborative and iterative process of solution development with newcomers provided a platform for knowledge translation through the development of educational resources on school-based vaccines, addressing the information barrier that newcomers identified when accessing RCVs.
Determining Hydroxyapatite Filling Volume for the Treatment of Post-Extraction Alveoli Based on Measurements of Alveolar Volume in Relation to the Body Weight of Dogs
Authors: Misztal-Kunecka Anna , Prządka Przemysław , Jeż Maja , Dzimira Stanisław
Published: December 2024

Filling post-extraction alveoli with hydroxyapatite-based materials is becoming an increasingly common procedure in veterinary dentistry. In dogs, tooth roots vary in structure depending on the weight of the dog, but data on tooth length and volume have not yet been described. This study aimed to establish reference data on tooth root length and post-extraction alveolar volume for mature maxillary and mandibular incisors and canines in dogs. We determined the mean length and volume of these teeth in dogs in the weight ranges of 1–5 kg, 5–10 kg, 10–20 kg, and over 20 kg. The obtained values given showed a correlation between tooth length and alveolar volume in a specific weight range. A review of the commercially available hydroxyapatite-based bone substitute materials was then conducted. A table is presented which shows how to calculate the volume of bone substitute material required to fill a post-extraction alveolus with a given material. Statistics were used to assess significant differences between the mass of the bone substitute product used (μL) for specific weight ranges and to demonstrate the correlation between tooth length and alveolar volume for a specific weight range. The data obtained in this study can serve as reference values for tooth crown length and alveolar volume, allowing operators to plan a specific volume of bone substitute material for filling post-extraction alveoli. This research is interesting because it shows that the weight of an animal is an important aspect in planning the amount of bone substitute material for tooth extraction. In clinical work, it is much easier to weigh an animal than it is to make calculations based on the length of the tooth root.