bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Proteomic Changes in Protein Metabolism and Mitochondrial Alterations Associated with Resistance to Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab Therapy in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Madoz-Gúrpide Juan , Serrano-López Juana , Sanz-Álvarez Marta , Morales-Gallego Miriam , Rodríguez-Pinilla Socorro María , Rovira Ana , Albanell Joan , Rojo Federico
Published: February 2025

HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) is overexpressed in approximately 15–20% of breast cancers, leading to aggressive tumour growth and poor prognosis. Anti-HER2 therapies, such as trastuzumab and pertuzumab, have significantly improved the outcomes for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer by blocking HER2 signalling. However, intrinsic and acquired resistance remains a major clinical challenge, limiting the long-term effectiveness of these therapies. Understanding the mechanisms of resistance is essential for developing strategies to overcome it and improve the therapeutic outcomes. We generated multiple HER2-positive breast cancer cell line models resistant to trastuzumab and pertuzumab combination therapy. Using mass spectrometry-based proteomics, we conducted a comprehensive analysis to identify the mechanisms underlying resistance. Proteomic analysis identified 618 differentially expressed proteins, with a core of 83 overexpressed and 118 downregulated proteins. Through a series of advanced bioinformatics analyses, we identified significant protein alterations and signalling pathways potentially responsible for the development of resistance, revealing key alterations in the protein metabolism, mitochondrial function, and signalling pathways, such as MAPK, TNF, and TGFβ. These findings identify mitochondrial activity and detoxification processes as pivotal mechanisms underlying the resistance to anti-HER2 therapy. Additionally, we identified key proteins, including ANXA1, SLC2A1, and PPIG, which contribute to the tumour progression and resistance phenotype. Our study suggests that targeting these pathways and proteins could form the basis of novel therapeutic strategies to overcome resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer.
Cardiological Aspects of Feeding and Eating Disorders in Children and Adolescents and Associations with Refeeding Syndrome, Purging Behaviors, and Psychoactive Drugs
Authors: Letizia Chiara , Pruccoli Jacopo , Pannacci Umberto , Napolitano Tania , Fabi Marianna , Parmeggiani Antonia
Published: February 2025

Feeding and Eating Disorders (FEDs) constitute a complex spectrum of psychiatric conditions, impacting physical and psychosocial well-being. This retrospective observational study aimed to dissect the electrocardiographic (ECG) alterations in pediatric patients with FEDs, correlating them with clinical factors, treatment modalities, Refeeding Syndrome (RS) and the reversibility of ECG abnormalities post-treatment. Analyzing records from a third level Italian Regional Center for FEDs in children and adolescents, the study encompassed 150 patients meeting the inclusion criteria. Sinus bradycardia was the prevalent ECG alteration, notably in Anorexia Nervosa (AN) restrictive type. Association analyses revealed links between the severity of AN, hormonal imbalances, and amenorrhea and ECG abnormalities. Pharmacological interventions, particularly antipsychotics, exhibited associations with a QT interval prolongation. RS demonstrated significant correlations with potassium and magnesium imbalances, which were linked to specific ECG changes. This study highlighted the reversibility of ECG abnormalities, concomitant with Body Mass Index improvement. This analysis underscores the critical cardiac implications of FEDs, advocating for multidisciplinary interventions and close cardiac monitoring. Early detection and holistic care are imperative in managing patients with FEDs in the developmental age, offering potential reversibility of cardiac alterations post-treatment. These findings underscore the need for prospective studies to validate these observations and delve deeper into cardiac involvement in FEDs.
Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG)-Loaded Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Seems to Be Effective in a Rat Model of Collagenase-Induced Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Kang Hwa Jun , Subramanian Sivakumar Allur , Song Si Young , Hwang Jihyun , Lee Collin , Kim Sung Jae
Published: February 2025

Tendon injuries account for 45% of musculoskeletal injuries. However, research on the occurrence and pathogenesis of tendinopathy is insufficient, and there is still much debate regarding treatment methods. It is important to understand the molecular mechanisms of oxidative stress and inflammatory responses because oxidative stress in tendon tissue is induced by various factors, including inflammatory cytokines, drug exposure, and metabolic abnormalities. In this study, 28 rats were divided into four groups (7 rats assigned to each group): control group (CON), collagenase injection group (CL), collagenase injection and hyaluronic acid injection group (CL + HA), and collagenase injection and EGCG-loaded hyaluronic acid injection group (CL + HA + EGCG). Seven weeks after the start of the study, all rats underwent histochemical analysis, immunofluorescence staining, and Western blot. The results showed increased inflammatory cells, disarray of collagen matrix, and degradation of the collagen matrix in the CL group. However, in the EGCG-treated group, there was a significant increase in type I collagen expression and a significant decrease in type III collagen expression, compared to the CL group. Additionally, there was an increase in the expression of antioxidant markers SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) and CAT (Catalase), tenogenic markers COLL-1 (collagen type I), and SCX (Scleraxis), and a downregulated expression of apoptosis markers cas-3 and cas-7. Our findings suggest that EGCG-loaded hyaluronic acid hydrogel exhibits potential in preventing tendon damage and promoting the regeneration process in a rat model of Achilles tendinopathy. The insights gained from our histological and molecular investigations highlight the future potential for testing novel tendinopathy treatments in human subjects.
Dental Implant Survival Rates: Comprehensive Insights from a Large-Scale Electronic Dental Registry
Authors: Tobias Guy , Chackartchi Tali , Haim Doron , Mann Jonathan , Findler Mordechai
Published: February 2025

Background: This descriptive study aimed to assess the survival rates and outcomes of dental implants in one of the four national HMOs in Israel. Data are provided for the period from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2022. Materials and Methods: This retrospective analysis utilized electronic medical records of patients who underwent dental implant placement during the specified period. Statistical analyses included chi-squared tests, Student’s t-tests, and generalized estimating equation (GEE) analyses to identify potential risk factors associated with early and late implant failures. Results: A total of 158,824 dental implants were placed in 53,874 patients. The overall implant failure rate was 2.21%, while the early failure rate during the osseointegration phase—before prosthetic reconstruction—was 1.56%. Significant associations with implant failure were observed for male patients (2.53% failure rate), implants in the maxillary molar region (3%), and the central incisor region (3.37%), approximately double the failure rates seen in other implant sites (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This extensive data analysis demonstrates a low overall failure rate for dental implants. The highest failure incidence occurred within the first year post-implantation, declining in subsequent years irrespective of rehabilitation status. Early failure risk factors differ based on various factors and should be carefully integrated into presurgical planning.
Laser-Induced Photothermal Hydrogels Promote the Proliferation of MC3T3-E1 Preosteoblasts for Enhanced Bone Healing
Authors: Wu Audrey L. , Wu Abigail F. , Chen Chieh-Ying , Moreno Ruaina Lily Hope , Wu Jia-Lin , Wong Pei-Chun
Published: February 2025

The nonunion and delayed union of bones are common challenges in orthopedic surgery, even when bone alignment is correct and sufficient mechanical stability is provided. To address this, artificial bone grafts are often applied to fracture gaps or defect sites to promote osteogenesis and enhance bone healing. In this study, we developed an alginate-based hydrogel incorporating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to enhance cell proliferation and facilitate bone healing through a photothermal effect induced by near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation. The temperature was controlled by adjusting the AuNP content. The hydrogel’s properties were characterized and cell viability was assessed. Our results indicate that while the incorporation of AuNPs slightly disrupted the hydrogel’s cross-linking network at low concentrations, cell viability remained unaffected across both low and high AuNP contents. These findings suggest that this photothermal hydrogel holds great promise for orthopedic applications to improve bone healing.
New Species of Ascomycetes from Two Hypersaline Endorheic Lagoon Complexes in Zaragoza Province (Aragon Community, Spain)
Authors: Barnés-Guirado María , Cano-Lira José F. , Miller Andrew N. , Stchigel Alberto M.
Published: February 2025

Although certain hypersaline endorheic lagoons in Spain have been investigated to evaluate the composition, spatial structure, and ecological roles of their macro- and microbiota, the fungi inhabiting these niches remain largely unexplored. In this study, we isolated several microfungi from the Salada Grande de Chiprana and La Playa lagoons, located in the Saladas de Chiprana (Directed Natural Reserve and Ramsar Wetland) and the Saladas de Sástago–Bujaraloz (Ramsar Wetland), respectively. As a result of morphological characterization and phylogenetic analysis using four informative molecular markers, we report the discovery of two new species of the genus Montagnula (M.), M. globospora and M. terricola, as well as one new species of Monosporascus (Mo.), Mo. auratispora. Montagnula globospora, isolated from a sediment sample from Salada Grande de Chiprana lagoon, is the only species of the genus producing unicellular, globose ascospores inside cleistothecial ascomata with a cephalothecoid peridium. Montagnula terricola was originally isolated from a soil sample in Malawi (ex-type strain). However, we have also identified another strain of this species from a sediment sample collected at La Playa lagoon. The remarkable features of M. terricola are the production of non-cephalothecoid cleistothecial ascomata and bicellular, bi-cupulate ascospores. Regarding Mo. auratispora, it was isolated from sediments of Salada Grande de Chiprana and is characterized by the production of golden-brown ascospores that do not turn black with age. Also, due to the results of our phylogenetic analysis, we transferred Herpotrichia striatispora to the genus Montagnula, as M. striatispora, and Montangula jonessi to the new genus Neomontagnula (N.), as N. jonessi.
Genomic Differences Between Two Fusarium oxysporum Formae Speciales Causing Root Rot in Cucumber
Authors: Komissarov Ernest Nailevich , Diabankana Roderic Gilles Claret , Abdeeva Inna , Afordoanyi Daniel Mawuena , Gudkov Sergey Vladimirovich , Dvorianinova Ekaterina Mikhailovna , Bruskin Sergey Alexandrovich , Dmitriev Alexey Alexandrovich , Validov Shamil Zavdatovich
Published: February 2025

The host specificity of Fusarium oxysporum (Fox) formae speciales has been reported to be linked to effector proteins known as Secreted in Xylem (SIX). These genes are associated with the non-autonomous mobile element miniature impala (mimp), normally distributed on the accessory chromosomes. The pattern of mimp associated with effector genes has been used to predict candidate effector profiles which characterize Fox formae speciales. In this study, we demonstrate the pathogenicity of strains Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. radicis-lycopersici (Forl) ZUM2407 and Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. radicis-cucumerinum (Forc) V03-2g in a common host plant (cucumber) and compare their genomes. The Forl ZUM2407 genome lacks SIX genes and their homologs, in contrast to Forc V03-2g. We predicted the total number of mimp elements in the genome of Forl ZUM2407 to be three-fold less than that of Forc V03-2g (10 and 36 copies, respectively). The mimp distribution pattern in Forl ZUM2407 was completely different from that present in Forc V03-2g. Candidate effector profile analysis did not predict that Forl ZUM2407 was able to infect cucumber plants like Forc V03-2g. Therefore, we assume that Forl ZUM2407 has a different type of genome organization associated with pathogenicity, whose effector profile cannot be described using the mimp-based approach.
Is CK7 a Prognostic Marker in Pulmonary LCNEC? Evidence from a Limited Cohort Study
Authors: Menghesha Hruy , Zalepugas Donatas , Camo Amina , Schlachtenberger Georg , Grapatsas Konstantinos , Amorin Estremadoyro Andres , Doerr Fabian , Heldwein Matthias , Quaas Alexander , Bölükbas Servet , Bennink Gerardus , Schmidt Joachim , Hekmat Khosro
Published: February 2025

Objectives: While the treatment of non-small-cell lung carcinoma has improved rapidly, the treatment of pulmonary large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) remains underdeveloped. The use of immunohistochemistry allows for accurate risk stratification. With our study, we investigated the outcome of patients with pulmonary LCNEC and analyzed whether CK7 correlates with long-term survival. Methods: We retrospectively collected the monocentric data of patients which underwent anatomical resection for lung cancer between January 2012 and December 2020. Patients that did not show pulmonary LCNEC or adenocarcinoma, had a positive resection margin, or underwent neoadjuvant therapy were excluded. The long-term survival rate of the LCNEC and adenocarcinoma groups were compared before and after propensity score matching. Furthermore, we performed survival analyses for a subgroup of LCNEC distinguished by CK7 expression, followed by Cox regression analyses. Results: A total of 466 patients were integrated for further analysis. The mean age was 65.3 ± 9.6 years. There were no significant differences between both groups regarding age, gender, or comorbidities. In terms of the UICC stage, the groups were equally distributed. Mean survival in the LCNEC group was significantly worse than in the adenocarcinoma group (LCENC: 36.4 ± 7.5 months; adenocarcinoma: 80.7 ± 8.1 months; p-value = 0.001). The mean survival rate was 19.23 ± 4.8 months in the CK7 expression group and 57.01 ± 8.5 months in the group without expression, which reached statistical significance (p-value = 0.019). Conclusions: Our study suggests that pulmonary LCNEC has a significantly worse prognosis than pulmonary adenocarcinoma. CK7 expression seems to be correlated with a worse outcome for the long-term survival rate of patients suffering from highly malignant pulmonary LCNEC.
Review of Permafrost Degradation in the Mongolian Plateau
Authors: Li Fengjiao , Wang Juanle , Li Pengfei , Dashtseren Avirmed
Published: February 2025

Permafrost serves as a crucial indicator of global climate change. Its degradation significantly influences Earth’s surface systems, including hydrology, soil, climate, ecosystems, and even civil construction. The distribution of permafrost in the Mongolian Plateau (MP) has an important influence in North Asia and even the Euro-Asia continent. This study provides a comprehensive review of the current state of permafrost degradation and its influence on MP, including climate change and human activities. Remote sensing technologies for permafrost monitoring, including optical remote sensing data models and InSAR technology, are also reviewed. This paper outlines eight future research directions by exploring the latest advancements and technical challenges in permafrost monitoring in the region. These include fundamental investigations of the permafrost zone; evaluation of permafrost effects on ecosystems; hydrology and water resources research; assessment and engineering of freeze–thaw hazards; sustainable regional development in permafrost zones; remote sensing monitoring techniques for permafrost; inter-regional comparative and collaborative research; and data sharing and standardization for permafrost research. This study provides valuable insights into the progress of permafrost degradation not only in the MP but also as a reference for related permafrost studies in other mid-to-high latitudes regions.
Comparison of Major Compounds in Essential Oils Steam Distilled from Fresh Plant Material of South African Hop Varieties
Authors: de Smidt Olga , du Plessis Wanda , Zacharia Puleng Rose , Manduna Idah Tichaidza
Published: February 2025

Apart from the importance of bittering acids in the brewing sector, hops also produce terpene-rich essential oils, recognised for their therapeutic benefits. Agri-processing practices of this crop in South Africa produce tonnes of discarded (waste) plant material that could still contain sufficient bioactive compounds to justify upcycling. This research aimed to determine the chemical composition of steam distilled essential oils from fresh hop plant material destined for disposal. Essential oils from eight hop varieties unique to South Africa were produced on industrial scale using steam distillation. Chemical profiling was performed using GC-FID and MS. A total of 208 compounds were identified and oil consisted largely of terpenes (89.04 ± 1.89%) as well as aliphatic esters and -ketones (6.1 ± 1.15%). Myrcene (27.8–48.15%) was the most abundant monoterpene and α-humulene (19.52–24.98%), β-caryophyllene (8.47–13.73%) and β-farnesene (2.08–7.57%) constituted the majority of the sesquiterpenes fraction. Experimental variety XJA2/436 had the highest myrcene fraction (48.15%) and its chemical composition was markedly different from the other varieties. The major compounds in African Queen hop oil were methyl (4Z) decanoate (0.74%), 2-tridecanone (0.77%) and β-farnesene (7.57%). Southern Dawn hop oil contained the highest fractions of 2-undecanone (1.21%) and α-humulene (24.89%) and Southern Passion hop oil contained the highest β-caryophyllene fraction (13.73%). These findings established that fresh hop vegetative biomass shows promise to be transformed into a valuable resource.
The Ambidextrous Role of Inland Terminals in Enhancing Port–Hinterland Connectivity
Authors: Rožić Tomislav , Božić Diana , Bajor Ivona , Andrlić Berislav
Published: February 2025

Background: The operational roles of ports are deeply intertwined with the development of their surrounding hinterlands, indicating that their relationship is mutually dependent and interactive. Moreover, the growth of a port positively influences the development of its hinterland, stimulating economic activities and improving overall regional development by enhancing competitiveness. Inland terminals, often considered “extended gateways” to ports, play a crucial role in integrating ports with their hinterlands. These terminals facilitate the adjustment of cargo transportation to align with the operational dynamics of ports. This paper presents a framework designed to clarify the importance of fostering strong links between ports and their hinterlands through the establishment of inland terminals. Methods: By applying a conceptual framework and methodologies of literature review and content analysis, this paper highlights the critical importance of developing robust connections between ports and their hinterlands through the implementation of inland terminals. Results and Conclusions: The findings of this research can help map the scientific knowledge related to various metrics of port–hinterland connectivity, outline relevant thematic areas, visualize the relationships between ports and their hinterlands, and identify prevailing research gaps and potential research paths in the context of inland terminal integration into the port system.
Mechanical Characterization and Modeling of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polyamide Built by Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Avalle Massimiliano , Frascio Mattia
Published: February 2025

Additive manufacturing (AM) is an emerging technology with the greatest potential impact on many engineering applications. Among the AM technologies, material extrusion is particularly interesting for plastic components due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. There is, however, a limited knowledge of design methods to predict the mechanical strength of parts built by material extrusion. The materials are polymers, sometimes also reinforced, and deposited in layers like in laminated composites. Therefore, the mechanical behavior and strength can be characterized and modeled with methods already known for composite materials. Such tools are the classical lamination theory (CLT) and the failure criteria for composites. This paper addresses an analysis of a composite material made of long-fiber glass in a polyamide matrix built by additive manufacturing; in this relatively new technique, a continuous fiber is inserted between layers of polyamide deposited from a wire with a fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printer. The mechanical behavior was studied from tensile tests that were carried out to demonstrate the feasibility of modeling with the mentioned tools, and the material properties for predicting the stiffness and strength of components built with that technique were identified. The results show that the classical models for the mechanical behavior of composite materials are well-suited for this material to predict the influence of the main building parameters.
Ordered Mesoporous Silica Prepared with Biodegradable Gemini Surfactants as Templates for Environmental Applications
Authors: Kurbonov Sarvarjon , Pisárčik Martin , Lukáč Miloš , Czigány Zsolt , Kovács Zoltán , Tolnai István , Kriechbaum Manfred , Ryukhtin Vasyl , Petrenko Viktor , Avdeev Mikhail V. , Tian Qiang , Lacrămă Ana-Maria , Almásy László
Published: February 2025

Mesoporous silica sieves have been prepared through sol–gel synthesis using diester gemini surfactants as pore templates, aiming to obtain new materials with potential use for water remediation. A series of mesoporous spherical silica particles of submicron size have been prepared in an alkali-catalyzed reaction, using a tetraethyl orthosilicate precursor and bis-quaternary ammonium gemini surfactants with diester spacers of varied lengths as pore-forming agents. The effect of the spacer length on the particle morphology was studied using nitrogen porosimetry, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), ultra-small-angle neutron scattering, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM). The results revealed that for all spacer lengths, a long-range hexagonal pore ordering developed in the materials. The silica particles were nearly spherical, with sizes below 1 micrometer, and a weak dependence of the mean particle size on the spacer length could be observed. The template removal procedure had a strong influence on the porosity: calcination caused a moderate shrinkage of the pores while retaining the hexagonal structure, whereas treatment with acidified ethanol resulted in only partial removal of the surfactants; however, the hexagonal structure was severely destroyed. The applicability of the obtained calcined materials as adsorbents for heavy metal ions from water was studied with the example of Pb(II). A high sorption capacity of 110 mg/g was obtained in batch experiments, at pH 5 and 4 h contact time.
Complex Challenges in the Textile Industry and Potential Solutions in Photocatalytic Coating Technology: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Lee Jun-Cheol , Huh Man-Woo , Hou Yao-Long , Kim Wha-Jung
Published: February 2025

This study provides a systematic review of photocatalytic fiber coating technology as a potential solution to challenges in the textile industry. An analysis of recent research (2020–2024) reveals significant developments in materials and methods. Traditional photocatalysts (TiO2 and ZnO) are being enhanced through doping and nanostructure control, and novel materials such as graphene-based composites and metal-organic frameworks are emerging. Advanced coating technologies, such as plasma treatment, atomic layer deposition, and magnetron sputtering, have been introduced to improve coating uniformity and durability. Key trends include the development of multifunctional coatings that combine self-cleaning, antibacterial effects, ultraviolet (UV) protection, and superhydrophobic properties. Environmental sustainability is advancing through eco-friendly manufacturing processes, although concerns regarding nanoparticle safety persist. While applications are expanding into medical textiles, protective gear, and wastewater treatment, challenges remain in terms of mass production technology, cost-effectiveness, and long-term durability. Future research should focus on nanostructure control, the development of visible-light-active materials, the optimization of coating processes, and the investigation of environmental impacts. This review suggests that photocatalytic fiber coating technology can significantly contribute to sustainable textile industry development when these challenges are effectively addressed.
Experimental Investigation of the Influence of Milling Conditions on Residual Stress in the Surface Layer of an Aerospace Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Zawada-Michałowska Magdalena , Anasiewicz Kamil , Korpysa Jarosław , Pieśko Paweł
Published: February 2025

In this study, the correlations between milling conditions—namely, the cutting tool feed direction relative to the rolling direction, the milling type, the coolant application, as well as the cutting speed—and the surface residual stress of a selected aluminum alloy (2024 T351) were investigated. Determining the type and magnitude of residual stress is of paramount importance as this stress is among the primary causes of post-machining strain of thin-walled components. On the basis of the experimental results, it was found that all factors analyzed significantly affect the residual stress state. Specifically, milling in the parallel direction induces lower residual tensile stress compared to milling in the perpendicular direction. Analogously, up-milling yields lower tensile residual stress than down-milling, and flood cooling leads to lower tensile residual stress than MQL. It was clearly confirmed that as cutting speed increases, tensile residual stress also increases, but only up to a certain threshold; once the high-speed cutting regime is reached, tensile residual stress begins to decrease. Consequently, the proper selection of milling parameters is a crucial consideration for optimizing machining processes and minimizing machining-induced residual stress.
Algorithm for Acoustic Wavefield in Space-Wavenumber Domain of Vertically Heterogeneous Media Using NUFFT
Authors: Zhang Ying , Dai Shikun
Published: February 2025

Balancing efficiency and accuracy is often challenging in the numerical solution of three-dimensional (3D) point source acoustic wave equations for layered media. To overcome this, an efficient solution method in the spatial-wavenumber domain is proposed, utilizing the Non-Uniform Fast Fourier Transform (NUFFT) to achieve arbitrary non-uniform sampling. By performing a two-dimensional (2D) Fourier transform on the 3D acoustic wave equation in the horizontal direction, the 3D equation is transformed into a one-dimensional (1D) space-wavenumber-domain ordinary differential equation, effectively simplifying significant 3D problems into one-dimensional problems and significantly reducing the demand for memory. The one-dimensional finite-element method is applied to solve the boundary value problem, resulting in a pentadiagonal system of equations. The Thomas algorithm then efficiently solves the system, yielding the layered wavefield distribution in the space-wavenumber domain. Finally, the wavefield distribution in the spatial domain is reconstructed through a 2D inverse Fourier transform. The correctness of the algorithm was verified by comparing it with the finite-element method. The analysis of the half-space model shows that this method can accurately calculate the wavefield distribution in the air layer considering the air layer while exhibiting high efficiency and computational stability in ultra-large-scale models. The three-layer medium model test further verified the adaptability and accuracy of the algorithm in calculating the distribution of acoustic waves in layered media. Through a sensitivity analysis, it is shown that the denser the mesh node partitioning, the higher the medium velocity, and the lower the point source frequency, the higher the accuracy of the algorithm. An algorithm efficiency analysis shows that this method has extremely low memory usage and high computational efficiency and can quickly solve large-scale models even on personal computers. Compared with traditional FEM, the algorithm has much higher advantages in terms of memory usage and efficiency. This method provides a new approach to the numerical solution of partial differential equations. It lays an essential foundation for background field calculation in the scattering seismic numerical simulation and full-waveform inversion of acoustic waves, with strong theoretical significance and practical application value.
An Encrypted Speech Integrity Authentication Method: Focus on Fine-Grained Tampering Detection and Tampering Recovery Under High Tamper Ratios
Authors: Xu Fujiu , Li Jianqiang , Xu Xi
Published: February 2025

With the increasing amount of cloud-based speech files, the privacy protection of speech files faces significant challenges. Therefore, integrity authentication of speech files is crucial, and there are two pivotal problems: (1) how to achieve fine-grained and highly accurate tampering detection and (2) how to perform high-quality tampering recovery under high tampering ratios. Tampering detection methods and tampering recovery methods of existing speech integrity authentication are mutually balanced, and most tampering recovery methods are carried out under ideal tampering conditions. This paper proposes an encrypted speech integrity authentication method that can simultaneously address both of problems, and its main contributions are as follows: (1) A 2-least significant bit (2-LSB)-based dual fragile watermarking method is proposed to improve tampering detection performance. This method constructs correlations between encrypted speech sampling points by 2-LSB-based fragile watermarking embedding method and achieves low-error tampering detection of tampered sampling points based on four types of fragile watermarkings. (2) A speech self-recovery model based on residual recovery-based linear interpolation (R2-Lerp) is proposed to achieve tampering recovery under high tampering ratios. This method constructs the model based on the correlation between tampered sampling points and their surrounding sampling points and refines the scenarios of the model according to the tampering situation of the sampling points, with experimental results showing that the recovered speech exhibits improved auditory quality and intelligibility. (3) A scrambling encryption algorithm based on the Lorenz mapping is proposed as the speech encryption method. This method scrambles the speech sampling points several times through 4-dimensional chaotic sequence, with experimental results showing that this method not only ensures security but also slightly improves the effect of tampering recovery.
Foundations and Innovations in Data Fusion and Ensemble Learning for Effective Consensus
Authors: Du Ke-Lin , Zhang Rengong , Jiang Bingchun , Zeng Jie , Lu Jiabin
Published: February 2025

Ensemble learning and data fusion techniques play a crucial role in modern machine learning, enhancing predictive performance, robustness, and generalization. This paper provides a comprehensive survey of ensemble methods, covering foundational techniques such as bagging, boosting, and random forests, as well as advanced topics including multiclass classification, multiview learning, multiple kernel learning, and the Dempster–Shafer theory of evidence. We present a comparative analysis of ensemble learning and deep learning, highlighting their respective strengths, limitations, and synergies. Additionally, we examine the theoretical foundations of ensemble methods, including bias–variance trade-offs, margin theory, and optimization-based frameworks, while analyzing computational trade-offs related to training complexity, inference efficiency, and storage requirements. To enhance accessibility, we provide a structured comparative summary of key ensemble techniques. Furthermore, we discuss emerging research directions, such as adaptive ensemble methods, hybrid deep learning approaches, and multimodal data fusion, as well as challenges related to interpretability, model selection, and handling noisy data in high-stakes applications. By integrating theoretical insights with practical considerations, this survey serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners seeking to understand the evolving landscape of ensemble learning and its future prospects.
Second-Level Numerical Semigroups
Authors: Llena David , Rosales José Carlos
Published: February 2025

Let S be a numerical semigroup with multiplicity m(S). Then, S is called a second-level numerical semigroup if x+y+z−m(S)∈S for every {x,y,z}⊆S∖{0}. In this paper, we present some algorithms to compute all the second-level numerical semigroups with multiplicity, genus, and a Frobenius fixed number. For m and r, which are positive integers, such that m<r and gcd(m,r)=1, we show that there exists the minimal second-level numerical semigroup with multiplicity m containing r. We solve the Frobenius problem for these semigroups and show that they satisfy Wilf’s conjecture.
Using Machine Learning for the Precise Experimental Modeling of Catastrophe Phenomena: Taking the Establishment of an Experimental Mathematical Model of a Cusp-Type Catastrophe for the Zeeman Catastrophe Machine as an Example
Authors: Zhang Shaonan , Xiong Liangshan
Published: February 2025

When catastrophe theory is applied to the experimental modeling of catastrophe phenomena, it is impossible to know in advance the corresponding relationship and mapping form between the parameters of the actual catastrophe mathematical model and the parameters of the canonical catastrophe mathematical model. This gives rise to the problem in which the process of experimental modeling cannot be completed in many instances. To solve this problem, an experimental modeling method of catastrophe theory is proposed. It establishes the quantitative relationship between the actual catastrophe mathematical model and the canonical catastrophe mathematical model by assuming that the actual potential function is equal to the canonical potential function, and it uses a machine learning model to represent the diffeomorphism that can realize the error-free transformation of the two models. The method is applied to establish the experimental mathematical model of a cusp-type catastrophe for the Zeeman catastrophe machine. Through programming calculation, it is found that the prediction errors of the potential function, manifold, and bifurcation set of the established model are 0.0455%, 0.0465%, and 0.1252%, respectively. This indicates that the established model can quantitatively predict the catastrophe phenomenon.
Application of Membrane Capacitive Deionization as Pretreatment Strategy for Enhancing Salinity Gradient Power Generation
Authors: Lee Seoyeon , Lee Juyoung , Ju Jaehyun , Cho Hyeongrak , Choi Yongjun , Lee Sangho
Published: February 2025

Salinity gradient power (SGP) technologies, including pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) and reverse electrodialysis (RED), have the potential to be utilized for the purpose of harvesting energy from the difference in salinity between two water streams. One challenge associated with SGP is a reduction in power density due to membrane fouling when impaired water is utilized as a low-salinity water stream. Accordingly, this study sought to explore the feasibility of membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI), a low-energy water treatment technique, as a novel pretreatment method for SGP. Laboratory-scale experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of MCDI pretreatment on the performance of PRO and RED. The low-salinity water was obtained from a brackish water reverse osmosis (BWRO) plant, while the high-salinity water was a synthetic seawater desalination brine. The removal efficiency of organic and inorganic substances in brackish water reverse osmosis (BWRO) brine by MCDI was estimated, as well as theoretical energy consumption. The results demonstrated that MCDI attained removal efficiencies of up to 88.8% for organic substances and 78.8% for inorganic substances. This resulted in a notable enhancement in the lower density for both PRO and RED. The power density of PRO exhibited a notable enhancement, reaching 3.57 W/m2 in comparison to 1.14 W/m2 recorded for the BWRO brine. Conversely, the power density of RED increased from 1.47 W/m2 to 2.05 W/m2. Given that the energy consumption by MCDI is relatively low, it can be surmised that the MCDI pretreatment enhances the overall efficiency of both PRO and RED. However, to fully capitalize on the benefits of MCDI pretreatment, it is recommended that further process optimization be conducted.
Surface-Charge Characterization of Nanocomposite Cellulose Acetate/Silver Membranes and BSA Permeation Performance
Authors: Figueiredo Ana Sofia , Sánchez-Loredo María Guadalupe , de Pinho Maria Norberta , Minhalma Miguel
Published: February 2025

Membrane processes are a reality in a wide range of industrial applications, and efforts to continuously enhance their performance are being pursued. The major drawbacks encountered are related to the minimization of polarization concentration, fouling, and biofouling formation. In this study, silver nanoparticles were added to the casting solutions of cellulose acetate membranes in order to obtain new hybrid membranes that present characteristics inherent to the silver nanoparticles, namely antibacterial behavior that leads to biofouling reduction. A systematic study was developed to assess the effect of ionic strength, membrane polymeric structure, and silver nanoparticle incorporation on the cellulose acetate (CA) membrane surface charge. Surface charge was quantified by streaming potential measurements and it was correlated with BSA permeation performance. CA membranes were prepared by the phase-inversion method using three casting-solution compositions, to obtain membranes with different polymeric structures (CA400-22, CA400-30, CA400-34). The nanocomposite CA/silver membranes (CA/Ag) were prepared through the incorporation of silver nanoparticles (0.1 and 0.4 wt% Ag) in the casting solutions of the membranes. To evaluate the electrolyte concentration effect on the membranes zeta potential and surface charge, two potassium chloride solutions of 1 mM and 5 mM were used, in the pH range between 4 and 9. The results show that the zeta-potential values of CA/Ag membranes were less negative when compared to the silver-free membranes, and almost independent of the silver content and the pH of the solution. The influence of the protein solution pH and the protein charge in the BSA solutions permeation was studied. The pH conditions that led to the lower permeate fluxes were observed at the isoelectric point of BSA, pH = 4.8.
A Review on Material Dynamics in Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing: Bonding, Stress, and Structural Evolution in Metals
Authors: Kafle Abishek , Lu Shengjun , Silwal Raman , Zhu Weihang
Published: February 2025

CSAM is a solid-state process for depositing metal or metal-based composite materials in which the fine particles of metal or composite material are accelerated to supersonic velocity, making successful bonding feasible due to the high-impact velocity and heavy plastic deformation, all without the melting of the feedstock material. This review examines the basic CSAM mechanism, including deposition dynamics, bonding mechanism, dynamic recrystallization, residual stress evolution, and post-spray heat treatments which affect microstructural and mechanical properties. Although controlled by a few key factors like particle velocity, strain rate, and temperature rise, the bonding efficiency itself refines the grains through dynamic recrystallization, hence improving coating strength and performance. The predominating compressive residual stresses that enhance fatigue resistance and mitigation strategies to improve coating durability by post-spray annealing and laser peening are discussed. This review, by providing an overview of material behavior, optimization techniques, and advanced modeling approaches, underlines the CSAM potential for high-performance applications in aerospace, biomedical industries, and machinery. It further underlines its importance for the advancement of manufacturing innovation and materials science.
Multifluid Metabolomics Identifies Novel Biomarkers for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Kirk Daniel , Louca Panayiotis , Attaye Ilias , Zhang Xinyuan , Wong Kari E. , Michelotti Gregory A. , Falchi Mario , Valdes Ana M. , Williams Frances M. K. , Menni Cristina
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a complex disorder affecting 10% of the global population, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. By integrating multifluid metabolomics, we aimed to identify metabolite markers of IBS in a large population-based cohort. Methods: We included individuals from TwinsUK with and without IBS, ascertained using the Rome III criteria, and analysed serum (232 cases, 1707 controls), urine (185 cases, 1341 controls), and stool (186 cases, 1284 controls) metabolites (Metabolon Inc.). Results: After adjusting for covariates, and multiple testing, 44 unique metabolites (25 novel) were associated with IBS, including lipids, amino acids, and xenobiotics. Androsterone sulphate, a sulfated steroid hormone precursor, was associated with lower odds of IBS in both urine (0.69 [95% confidence interval = 0.56–0.85], p = 2.34 × 10−4) and serum (0.75 [0.63–0.90], p = 1.54 × 10−3. Moreover, suberate (C8-DC) was associated with higher odds of IBS in serum (1.36 [1.15–1.61]; p = 1.84 × 10−4) and lower odds of IBS in stool (0.76 [0.63–0.91]; p = 2.30 × 10−3). On the contrary, 32 metabolites appeared to be fluid-specific, including indole, 13-HODE + 9-HODE, pterin, bilirubin (E,Z or Z,Z), and urolithin. The remaining 10 metabolites were associated with IBS in one fluid with suggestive evidence (p < 0.05) in another fluid. Finally, we identified androgenic signalling, dicarboxylates, haemoglobin, and porphyrin metabolism to be significantly over-represented in individuals with IBS compared to controls. Conclusions: Our results highlight the utility of a multi-fluid approach in IBS research, revealing distinct metabolic signatures across biofluids.
Research on Performance Enhancement, Output Regulation, and the Applications of Nanogenerators
Authors: Huang You-Jun , Chung Chen-Kuei
Published: February 2025

The demand for sensors in wearable devices [...]
Predictive Value of Direct Disk Diffusion Testing from Positive Blood Cultures for Detection of Antimicrobial Nonsusceptibility
Authors: Wong Tammy Ting-Yan , Lee Chung-Ho , Luk Hester Wing-Sum , Tse Cindy Wing-Sze , Ho Pak-Leung
Published: February 2025

Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global threat, particularly in the context of bloodstream infections. Early antimicrobial susceptibility testing plays a crucial role in guiding clinicians to optimize treatment and enhance patient outcomes. Direct disk diffusion testing (dDDT), utilizing positive blood culture broth as an inoculum, provides results one day earlier than the standard method using bacterial colonies. This retrospective study evaluated the ability of dDDT to predict nonsusceptibility to commonly used antibiotics. From January 2021 to December 2023, a total of 1473 blood cultures positive for a single pathogen (Enterobacterales, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, β-hemolytic streptococci, or Enterococcus spp.) were examined. The results of dDDT were compared against the standard disk diffusion method as the reference standard. A total of 9754 organism–antibiotic pairs were analyzed. The positive predictive values were more than 98% for clinically significant resistant phenotypes, including ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, cefepime, and meropenem nonsusceptibility in Enterobacterales, ceftazidime and meropenem nonsusceptibility in P. aeruginosa, and cefoxitin resistance in S. aureus. Overall, sensitivities exceeded 98% for the majority of organism–antibiotic pairs, with specificities ranging from 88.4% to 100%. Categorical agreement was high at 97.9%, ranging from 88.8% to 100% across organism groups. The overall rates of major error and very major error were very low, at 0.2% and 0.04%, respectively, and ranged from 0% to 1.5% and 0% to 0.04%, respectively, across organism groups. In conclusion, dDDT is a reliable and expedient method for detecting antibiotic nonsusceptibility, making it a valuable tool for the timely management of bloodstream infections caused by resistant organisms.
A Comprehensive Study of the Spatial Variations in the Distribution of Rare Earth Elements (REE) and Their Potential in the Coals of the Shubarkol Deposit, Kazakhstan
Authors: Blyalova Gulim , Amangeldykyzy Altynay , Kopobayeva Aiman , Zhirkov Valentin , Ryzhkov Stanislav
Published: February 2025

Due to the gradual depletion of traditional metallic mineral resources, the search for new potential sources is an important issue. One such source is coal deposits. The extraction of metals from coal is a way to produce clean energy. This study presents the results of detailed research on geochemical features and mineralogy to understand the processes of microelement enrichment in the coal-bearing deposit of Shubarkol, in Central Kazakhstan. Modern analytical techniques were used to obtain information about the conditions and processes of trace element accumulation in coal, as well as the modes of occurrence of these elements. Geochemical data were analyzed using multidimensional statistical methods, including correlation, clustering, and factor analysis, which allowed us to draw several scientific conclusions. Numerous factors indicate that the enrichment of trace elements in sediments is controlled by clastic terrigenous material and low-temperature hydrothermal solutions circulating in the coal basin. The main sources of removal of trace elements from coal are ancient igneous rock complexes located within deposits that were directly involved in coal enrichment through secondary geological processes. According to estimates, the degree of enrichment of Jurassic coals at Shubarkol was close to the average value for world coals (0.5 < CC < 2), and coal seams were enriched with lithophilic and chalcophilic elements such as Ba, U, Yb, Co, La, Nb, Hf, Sc, V, Sr, Cu, and Zn. A correlation analysis of coal deposits revealed a significant correlation between main oxides and rare earth elements (REEs). The strongest correlation was between Zr, Hf, Th/Ta, and REEs. The positive correlations between Zr and Al2O3, Nb and Al2O3 indicate that these elements (Zr, Hf, Nb, Ta, and REY) are probably related to Al. The results obtained make it possible to consider coal as a potential mineral resource for the production of rare metals and serve as a guide for the industrial processing of the most important elements found in coal.