bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory-Scale Natural Gas Hydrate Extraction Numerical Simulation Under Phase Transition Effect
Authors: Fu Qiang , Pang Weixin , Chen Mingqiang , Pang Sheng
Published: February 2025

Phase transition in gas hydrate reservoirs has a significant effect on the fluid flow dynamic when performing test production, which should be carefully studied. This study systematically investigates the phase transition characteristics of natural gas hydrates during the depressurization extraction process through laboratory-scale numerical simulations. First, a laboratory-scale numerical simulation model is established with dimensions of 1 m × 1 m × 1 m. In the simulation, the nanoscale and microscale effect on phase transition is considered. Then, the analysis of how different sediment types and their properties affecting gas production dynamics is presented. The results show that hydrate dissociation and formation are significantly influenced by factors such as the pore scale, salinity, and water content. In particular, montmorillonite had the most significant effect, leading to a 525.25% increase in gas production, while the impact of silty soil was relatively smaller. The increase in salinity inhibited hydrate formation but promoted dissociation, resulting in a significant increase in gas production, especially when the salinity reached to 3.5%, where gas production increased by 590.21%. An increase in water content led to a significant decrease in production. Through monitoring temperature and pressure changes during the extraction process, the different physical fields are analyzed, providing important theoretical support and practical guidance for the efficient extraction of natural gas hydrates.
Restoring Soil Features and Biodiversity Indicators in Managed Forests to the Levels of Protected Forests: After One Silvicultural Rotation Period
Authors: Tavankar Farzam , Picchio Rodolfo , Venanzi Rachele , Latterini Francesco , Nikooy Mehrdad
Published: February 2025

This study examines the provision of ecosystem services in natural mixed broadleaf forests located in the Hyrcanian region of Iran. These services include habitat conservation, soil preservation, timber production, and carbon storage (C-stock). The forests are managed under three different silvicultural methods: shelterwood, selection cutting, and protection, allowing for a comparative analysis of their impact on these critical services. The time since the last cutting operation varied among the forest stands. In the shelterwood stand, 25 years had passed since the previous operation, while in the selection cutting stand, it had been 13 years. In contrast, the protected stand had remained untouched by logging for the past 40 years. This presents a valuable opportunity to assess the effects of the recovery period and evaluate the extent of ecosystem service restoration. Additionally, it allows for determining whether these services have reached the levels observed in a protected forest. The results show that habitat conservation, soil preservation, and carbon stock (C-stock) values ranked as follows: protection > selection cutting > shelterwood. In contrast, timber production values were highest under selection cutting, followed by shelterwood, and lowest in protected areas. Furthermore, the Stand Structural Complexity Index (SCI) was greatest in protected stands, with selection cutting and shelterwood-managed stands ranking second and third, respectively. Similarly, species diversity indices, the abundance of large-diameter trees, and the volume of deadwood followed this same trend. These findings highlight a trade-off in forest management practices. While selection cutting and shelterwood management simplify stand structure to enhance timber production and maximize economic returns, they also lead to a significant reduction in other critical forest ecosystem services. Our findings further revealed that, even decades after the cessation of forest operations, the ecological value of previously managed forests remains substantially lower than that of protected forests. Moreover, the results demonstrate that a single silvicultural rotation period is insufficient to fully restore the ecological value of managed forests, regardless of whether they were subjected to selection cutting or shelterwood management practices.
Pichia kudriavzevii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae Inoculation Strategies for Cider Elaboration from Acidic Apples
Authors: Mazzucco María Belén , Jovanovich Milena , Rodríguez María Eugenia , Oteiza Juan Martín , Lopes Christian Ariel
Published: February 2025

Background: The cider industry is becoming an increasingly important segment of the apple fruit sector in Argentina. This study evaluated different inoculation strategies using two Patagonian strains to produce ciders with reduced malic acid and enhanced quality from acidic apple musts. Methods: Fermentations were performed using Pichia kudriavzevii NPCC1651 (isolated from cider) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae ÑIF8 (isolated from wine) in pure, simultaneous, and sequential inoculations. Viable cell counts, glucose and fructose consumption kinetics, and malic acid depletion were measured during fermentation, while physicochemical and aromatic profiles of the ciders were also analyzed in the final products. Results: P. kudriavzevii was capable of coexisting with S. cerevisiae until the final stages of fermentation, independently from the inoculation strategy employed. The simultaneous inoculation at a 1:1 ratio and the sequential inoculation initiated with S. cerevisiae showed the best performance. Both strategies produced ciders with high fermentative efficiency and elevated levels of lactic and succinic acids, isoamyl alcohol, 2-phenylethanol, isoamyl acetate, and 2-phenylethyl acetate while reducing acetic acid and ethyl acetate levels. These fermentations also achieved higher malic acid consumption compared to pure cultures. Conclusions: The simultaneous inoculation at a 1:1 ratio is proposed for further pilot-scale testing in natural acidic musts due to its operational practicality and its potential to produce ciders with reduced malic acid and improved sensory quality.
Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation of Wheat Starch for Bioethanol Production
Authors: Vučurović Vesna , Katanski Aleksandra , Vučurović Damjan , Bajić Bojana , Dodić Siniša
Published: February 2025

Bioethanol is a renewable, environmentally-friendly biofuel conventionally produced through the alcoholic fermentation of sugary or starch-rich substrates by microorganisms, commonly Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Intermediates of industrial wheat flour wet milling processing to starch, such as A-starch and B-starch milk, are cost-effective, abundant, and non-seasonal feedstocks for bioethanol production. This study evaluates the bioethanol production from wheat A-starch and B-starch milk and mixtures of these two substrates in different ratios (1:3, 1:1, and 3:1) using two cold hydrolysis procedures at 65 °C: (i) simultaneous liquefaction and saccharification (SLS) followed by fermentation, and (ii) liquefaction by alpha-amylase followed by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). The results demonstrated that SSF and SLS are equally efficient procedures for reaching a high ethanol yield of 53 g per 100 g of starch and 93% of starch conversion to ethanol for all investigated substrates. Lower levels of non-starch components in A-starch milk, which typically contribute to volatile by-product formation, allowed clear distillate profiles in terms of and lower content of aldehydes, methanol, and volatile acidity, enhancing ethanol distillate purity compared to B-starch milk. Mixing high-quality A-starch milk with low-cost B-starch milk enables higher ethanol yield, improved distillate quality, and energy savings for efficient industrial-scale applications.
Effect of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) on Frozen Gelation of Egg Yolk
Authors: Yuan Junze , Lin Songyi , Liu Kun , Guo Fujun , Bao Zhijie
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the roles of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in the gelatinization behavior of egg yolk, as well as the underlying mechanisms of action. This research examined the rheological properties, moisture distribution, and structural characteristics of a system containing reconstituted egg yolk components during the freezing process. The results indicated that increasing the concentration of LDL and HDL in the egg yolk system enhanced the apparent viscosity of egg yolk following a freeze–thaw treatment. Specifically, as the LDL and HDL content increased, G’ and G” values increased significantly, whereas tanδ values decreased significantly and l* values declined. These findings suggest that both LDL and HDL are critical contributors to the gelatinization process of egg yolk. Furthermore, as the concentrations of LDL and HDL in the system increased, the amount of fixed water also rose, while the bound and free water content decreased. This observation implies that LDL and HDL facilitate water migration during the freezing of egg yolk. The increase in fluorescence intensity observed in the fluorescence spectra indicates a greater exposure of tyrosine residues on the protein surface, an enhancement of surface hydrophobicity, and a modification of protein conformation. Fluorescence inverted microscopy revealed that elevated levels of LDL and HDL in the system led to increased structural damage to the protein due to freezing, which subsequently promoted the aggregation of yolk proteins. This suggests that both LDL and HDL undergo aggregation during gelation. In egg yolk, LDL and HDL are essential for gel formation during the freezing of liquid egg yolk and play critical roles in both protein structure and water migration. Of the two lipoproteins, HDL has a more pronounced effect on gel formation during liquid egg yolk freezing. This study investigates the key substances involved in the gelatinization of egg yolk, providing a reference for further improvements in egg yolk gelatinization during freezing.
Crystallization Kinetics of Oleogels Prepared with Essential Oils from Thirteen Spices
Authors: Zhou Wei , Yu Lin , Wei Zihao
Published: February 2025

In this study, corn oil and essential oils from thirteen spices were used as the oil phase, with glyceryl monostearate (GMS) serving as the gelling agent to prepare the oleogels. The effects of varying the concentrations of the gel additives (2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%) on the texture, oil retention, and rheological properties of the oleogels were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that GMS concentration markedly influenced the structure and properties of the gel. Positive correlations were observed between GMS concentration and the results of texture analysis, oil binding capacity, and microscopic morphology of the oleogels. Analyses via DSC and XRD demonstrated that gel formation was attributable to the crystalline network induced by GMS. Rheological assessments revealed that the oleogels exhibited pseudoplastic behavior and commendable thermal sensitivity.
Correlation Between Interleukin IL-6/IL-6 Receptor Polymorphisms (IL6–174C>G and IL6R 1073A>C) and RAS/BRAF Mutations in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Smagina Ekaterina , Polit’ko Dar’ya , Kumeiko Vadim , Gurina Lyudmila , Stenkova Anna
Published: February 2025

Background: Chronic inflammation is an important factor in the development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). One of the key participants of chronic inflammation is interleukin-6 (IL-6), which enhances tumor malignancy. Some of the genetic markers characterizing the IL-6/STAT3/JAK pathway are functional polymorphisms in IL6 and IL6R genes. Hyperexpression of IL-6 and increasing concentrations of the soluble form, IL-6R, may be one possible option for cross-activation of MAPK signaling. Methods: Detection of rs1800795 and rs2228145 SNPs was carried out using allele-specific PCR. The mutations of RAS and BRAF genes in tumors were determined by pyrosequencing. Results: The allele and genotype distributions of IL6 rs1800795 (−174C>G) and IL6R rs2228145 (1073A>C) were significantly different between the CRC and control groups. Thus, the risks of CRC developing in carriers of the homozygous G/G rs1800795 and C/C rs2228145 genotypes were 2.05- and 1.85-fold higher. Also, we identified a relationship between the studied SNPs and somatic activating mutations in the RAS and BRAF genes. It was found that the G/G rs1800795 and C/C rs2228145 genotypes are significantly more common in the group of patients without activating mutations in the RAS and BRAF genes. Conclusions: Understanding the impact of genetic factors not only on cancer predisposition but the evolution of cancer cells will help to derive novel predictive markers and therapy options.
Evaluating Expert Opinion-Based Reservoir Operation in Cfa/Csa Climatic Conditions
Authors: Sedighkia Mahdi , Datta Bithin
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the application of an expert opinion-based fuzzy method for reservoir operation in humid subtropical climate/hot-summer Mediterranean climatic classes (Cfa/Csa in the Köppen–Geiger climate classification system), which are characterized by humid subtropical to Mediterranean conditions with ample rainfall and seasonal water availability challenges. Effective reservoir management in these regions is critical for balancing water storage and downstream release and maintaining ecosystem health under variable hydrological conditions. The performance of the fuzzy method was compared to two meta-heuristic algorithms: gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and shuffled frog leaping algorithm (SFLA). System performance was assessed using key indices such as the reliability index as a measure of meeting water demands. The fuzzy method achieved the highest reliability index of 0.690, outperforming GSA (0.677) and SFLA (0.688), demonstrating its superior ability to ensure consistent water supply downstream. The fuzzy method, leveraging expert knowledge, not only enhanced downstream water supply reliability but also reduced computational time compared to the meta-heuristic approaches. The incorporation of expert opinions provides a practical, robust, and efficient framework for reservoir management in challenging climate conditions such as Cfa/Csa classes. Additionally, the fuzzy solution demonstrated superior adaptability to diverse hydrological conditions, balancing ecological and water supply needs effectively. These findings highlight the potential of using expert opinions to support sustainable reservoir operations by achieving optimal trade-offs between competing objectives and addressing challenges in water resource management under varying climatic conditions.
Endothelial-Protective Actions of Diethylether Extract from Gentiana kochiana and Xanthone Gentiacaulein Against Oxidized LDL-Induced Injury—In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Tovilović-Kovačević Gordana , Zogović Nevena , Ignjatović Đurđica , Tomić Mirko , Penjišević Jelena , Kukić-Marković Jelena , Krstić-Milošević Dijana
Published: February 2025

Endothelial dysfunction is an early pathophysiological event in atherosclerosis. The endothelial-protective abilities of diethylether extract (EE) from the Gentiana kochiana (Gentianaceae) herb and its main component, xanthone aglycone gentiacaulein (GC), were evaluated in an oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-treated EA.hy926 endothelial cell line. The EE and GC actions were assessed using cell viability assays, flow cytometry, immunoblot, DPPH, NBT, TBARS, conjugated diene formation, and Griess tests. Both EE and GC prevented oxLDL-induced apoptosis by reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, mitochondrial depolarization, and caspase activation in EA.hy926 cells. EE and GC dose-dependently diminished oxLDL-induced cellular lipid peroxidation. In cell-free conditions, EE moderately scavenged superoxide anions and had no affinity toward DPPH radicals, GC did not interact with either of investigated free radicals, while both EE and GC effectively delayed Cu²⁺-induced LDL oxidation. EE and GC upregulated oxLDL-suppressed protective Akt/CREB/eNOS and ERK signals and restored oxLDL-reduced nitric oxide levels. Therefore, EE and GC effectively counteract oxLDL-induced endothelial apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress, promoting mitochondrial recovery, and enhancing the prosurvival Akt/CREB/eNOS axis and ERK activity. Our study is the first to demonstrate that xanthone-rich EE from aerial parts of G. kochiana and xanthone GC alleviate oxLDL-induced endothelial cell injury, underscoring their potential for cardiovascular protection.
Integrating Hypoxia Signatures from scRNA-seq and Bulk Transcriptomes for Prognosis Prediction and Precision Therapy in Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Endocervical Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yu Kexin , Zhang Shibo , Shen Jiali , Yu Meini , Su Yangguang , Wang Ying , Zhou Kun , Liu Lei , Chen Xiujie
Published: February 2025

Hypoxia, a common feature in many malignancies, is particularly prominent in cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC). Investigating the mechanisms underlying hypoxia is essential for understanding the heterogeneity of CESC and developing personalized therapeutic regimens. Firstly, the CESC-specific hypoxia gene sets shared between single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk data were identified through Weighted Gene Correlation Network Analysis (WGCNA)and FindMarkers analyses. A CESC-specific hypoxia-related score (CSHRS) risk model was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)and Cox regression analyses based on these genes. The prognostic differences were analyzed in terms of immune infiltration, mutations, and drug resistance. Finally, a nomogram model was constructed by integrating clinicopathological features to facilitate precision treatment for CESC. This study constructed a CSHRS risk model that divides patients into two groups, and this model can comprehensively evaluate the tumor microenvironment characteristics of CESC, provide accurate prognostic predictions, and offer rational treatment options for patients.
CITE-Seq Analysis Reveals a Differential Natural Killer Cell SPON2 Expression in Cardiovascular Disease Patients Impacted by Human-Cytomegalovirus Serostatus and Diabetes
Authors: Armstrong Sujit Silas , Chen Daniel G. , Kumar Sunil , Heath James R. , Feinstein Matthew J. , Greenland John R. , Calabrese Daniel R. , Lanier Lewis L. , Ley Klaus , Shemesh Avishai
Published: February 2025

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is linked to atherosclerosis plaque formation. In pro-inflammatory conditions, human Natural Killer (NK) cell frequencies in blood or plaque decrease; however, NK cells are underexplored in CAD pathogenesis, inflammatory mechanisms, and CAD comorbidities, such as human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection and diabetes. Analysis of PBMC CITE-seq data from sixty-one CAD patients revealed higher blood NK cell SPON2 expression in CAD patients with higher stenosis severity. Conversely, NK cell SPON2 expression was lower in pro-inflammatory atherosclerosis plaque tissue with an enriched adaptive NK cell gene signature. In CAD patients with higher stenosis severity, peripheral blood NK cell SPON2 expression was lower in patients with high HCMV-induced adaptive NK cell frequencies and corresponded to lower PBMC TGFβ transcript expression with dependency on diabetes status. These results suggest that high NK cell SPON2 expression is linked to atherosclerosis pro-homeostatic status and may have diagnostic and prognostic implications in cardiovascular disease.
Dynamics of Immune Cell Infiltration and Fibroblast-Derived IL-33/ST2 Axis Induction in a Mouse Model of Post-Surgical Lymphedema
Authors: Uemura Kazuhisa , Katayama Kei-ichi , Nishioka Toshihiko , Watanabe Hikaru , Yamada Gen , Inoue Norimitsu , Asamura Shinichi
Published: February 2025

Lymphedema is an intractable disease most commonly associated with lymph node dissection for cancer treatment and can lead to a decreased quality of life. Type 2 T helper (Th2) lymphocytes have been shown to be important in the progression of lymphedema. The activation of IL-33 and its receptor, the suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2) signaling pathway, induces the differentiation of Th2 cells, but its involvement in lymphedema remains unclear. In the present study, we analyzed the dynamics of immune cell infiltration, including the IL-33/ST2 axis, in a mouse tail lymphedema model. Neutrophil infiltration was first detected in the lymphedema tissue on postoperative day (POD) 2. Macrophage infiltration increased from POD 2 to 5. The number of CD4+ T cells, including 50% Tregs, gradually increased from POD 14. The mRNA expression of ll13 and Ifng increased on POD 21. The expression of IL-33 was induced in fibroblast nuclei within dermal and subcutaneous tissues from POD 2, and the expression of the Il1rl1 gene encoding ST2 increased from POD 7. We demonstrated the infiltration process from innate to acquired immune cells through the development of a mouse tail lymphedema. The IL-33/ST2 axis was found to be induced during the transition from innate to acquired immunity.
Panel Method for 3D Inviscid Flow Simulation of Low-Pressure Compressor Rotors with Tip-Leakage Flow
Authors: Caries Valentin , Boudet Jérôme , Lippinois Eric
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a low-order three-dimensional approach for predicting the inviscid flow around low-pressure compressors. The method is suitable for early design stages and allows a broad exploration of design possibilities at minimal cost. It combines the vortex lattice method with the panel method by using a mixed boundary condition. In addition, it models the tip-leakage flow using an iterative algorithm. First, the verification of the approach is carried out on a low-pressure compressor configuration. The wake length is a decisive parameter for ensuring correct flow deflection in ducted applications. A periodicity condition is introduced and validated, which reduces the computational and memory requirements. On average, the calculations take less than one minute in real time. The approach is validated on the same low-pressure compressor configuration. A good agreement is obtained with RANS concerning the mean flow and the tip-leakage flow characteristics. Sensitivity to the mass flow rate is also fairly well predicted, although discrepancies develop at lower mass flow rates.
Large Language Models for Electronic Health Record De-Identification in English and German
Authors: Sousa Samuel , Jantscher Michael , Kröll Mark , Kern Roman
Published: February 2025

Electronic health record (EHR) de-identification is crucial for publishing or sharing medical data without violating the patient’s privacy. Protected health information (PHI) is abundant in EHRs, and privacy regulations worldwide mandate de-identification before downstream tasks are performed. The ever-growing data generation in healthcare and the advent of generative artificial intelligence have increased the demand for de-identified EHRs and highlighted privacy issues with large language models (LLMs), especially data transmission to cloud-based LLMs. In this study, we benchmark ten LLMs for de-identifying EHRs in English and German. We then compare de-identification performance for in-context learning and full model fine-tuning and analyze the limitations of LLMs for this task. Our experimental evaluation shows that LLMs effectively de-identify EHRs in both languages. Moreover, in-context learning with a one-shot setting boosts de-identification performance without the costly full fine-tuning of the LLMs.
Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Artemisia and Salvia Genera in Cancer, Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Short Review of Clinical Evidence
Authors: Tavares Wilson R. , Seca Ana M. L. , Barreto Maria Carmo
Published: February 2025

Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of metabolic disorders comprising dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, elevated blood pressure, and abdominal obesity, is a silent epidemic that may lead to outcomes such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Due to the increase in the prevalence of these pathologies, the search for better treatments and more efficient drugs is imperative. Species of Artemisia and Salvia genera are excellent examples of noteworthy sources of bioactive products with health applications, their therapeutic properties being well known both in popular medicine and in the scientific community. There are reports of plant extracts or compounds from species belonging to either of these genera, which were able to combat cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular pathologies. For instance, dihydroartemisinin (analog of artemisin extracted from Artemisia annua L.) can reduce tumor markers p53 and Ki-67 expression levels, leading to a reduction in tumor proliferation. Salvia officinalis L. has antihyperglycemic and lipid profile-improving effects since it decreases total cholesterol, glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting glucose, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Clinical trials using mixtures (dried powdered plants or extracts) of known medicinal plants are recurrent in published works, in contrast with the scarce clinical trial studies with isolated compounds. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge. was by far the most targeted plant in the clinical trials analyzed here. Regarding clinical trials concerning Artemisia, there are more studies aiming to see its effect on diabetes, but the studies about cancer are more advanced. This review aims to give a critical summary of the most interesting and promising results from clinical trials. The abundance of studies with limited statistically significant clinical evidence hinders progress in clinical therapy. This situation demands far greater rigor from the scientific community, researchers, regulatory agencies, editors, and reviewers in conducting and publishing clinical studies.
Robot-Based Procedure for 3D Reconstruction of Abdominal Organs Using the Iterative Closest Point and Pose Graph Algorithms
Authors: Göbel Birthe , Huurdeman Jonas , Reiterer Alexander , Möller Knut
Published: February 2025

Image-based 3D reconstruction enables robot-assisted interventions and image-guided navigation, which are emerging technologies in laparoscopy. When a robotic arm guides a laparoscope for image acquisition, hand–eye calibration is required to know the transformation between the camera and the robot flange. The calibration procedure is complex and must be conducted after each intervention (when the laparoscope is dismounted for cleaning). In the field, the surgeons and their assistants cannot be expected to do so. Thus, our approach is a procedure for a robot-based multi-view 3D reconstruction without hand–eye calibration, but with pose optimization algorithms instead. In this work, a robotic arm and a stereo laparoscope build the experimental setup. The procedure includes the stereo matching algorithm Semi Global Matching from OpenCV for depth measurement and the multiscale color iterative closest point algorithm from Open3D (v0.19), along with the multiway registration algorithm using a pose graph from Open3D (v0.19) for pose optimization. The procedure is evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively on ex vivo organs. The results are a low root mean squared error (1.1–3.37 mm) and dense point clouds. The proposed procedure leads to a plausible 3D model, and there is no need for complex hand–eye calibration, as this step can be compensated for by pose optimization algorithms.
Prediction of Green Sukuk Investment Interest Drivers in Nigeria Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Akinde Mukail , Olapeju Olasunkanmi , Olaiju Olusegun , Ogunseye Timothy , Emmanuel Adebayo , Olagoke-Salami Sekinat , Oduwole Foluke , Olapeju Ibironke , Ibikunle Doyinsola , Aladelusi Kehinde
Published: February 2025

This study developed and evaluated machine learning models (MLMs) for predicting the drivers of green sukuk investment interest (GSII) in Nigeria, adopting the planks of hypothesised determinants adapted from variants of the planned behavioural model and behavioural finance theory. Of the seven models leveraged in the prediction, random forest, which had the highest level of accuracy (82.35% for testing and 90.37% for training datasets), with a good R2 value (0.774), afforded the optimal choice for prediction. The random forest model ultimately classified 10 of the hypothesised predictors of GSII, which underpinned constructs such as risk, perceived behavioural control, information availability, and growth, as highly important; 21, which were inclusive of all of the hypothesised constructs in measurement, as moderately important; and the remaining 15 as low in importance. The feature importance determined by the random forest model afforded an indicator-specific value, which can help green sukuk (GS) issuers to prioritise the most important drivers of investment interest, suggest important contexts for ethical investment policy enhancement, and inform insights about optimal resource allocation and pragmatic recommendations for stakeholders with respect to the funding of climate change mitigation projects in Nigeria.
Examining Activity, Courtship, and Social Behaviour in Zoo-Housed Wreathed Hornbills: Potential Insights into Pair Compatibility
Authors: Groot Kees , Rose Paul
Published: February 2025

Tropical forest hornbills display complex social and reproductive behaviours that make them hard to reliably and frequently breed in ex situ facilities. This study investigated potential behavioural indicators of pair compatibility for two wreathed hornbills (Rhyticeros undulatus) at ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo. We focused on behaviours linked to reproductive investment, such as time spent in proximity, vocalisation, and courtship display. Through systematic observations using ZooMonitor, we recorded behavioural and enclosure use data, as well as visitor presence. Key findings revealed that the male hornbill was more active and exploratory than the female. Courtship behaviours were more frequently performed by the male bird and were positively associated with perching at elevated positions. However, this behaviour decreased when the birds were in close proximity or inactive. Visitor presence influenced enclosure use, with the hornbills preferring higher perches during peak visitor times. We conclude that behaviours such as proximity, vocalisations, and courtship displays could potentially serve as indicators of compatibility in hornbill pairs but more data across more birds are needed for validation. Finally, we advocate for enclosure designs that consider hornbills’ natural behaviours and social needs to help ex situ facilities promote an environment conducive to pair bonding.
The Construction of a Protection Network for Traditional Settlements Across Regions: A Case Study of the Chengdu–Chongqing Ancient Post Road Heritage Corridor in China
Authors: Du Chunlan , Pan Di , Liu Qingying
Published: February 2025

In recent years, there appears to be a notable transition towards preserving heritage on a regional scale, aiming to promote the authenticity and integrity of traditional settlements. The complex natural topography of these settlements, along with their spread-out arrangement, poses significant challenges to their protection and preservation. With the acceleration of urbanization and the implementation of the national strategy of building a twin-city economic circle in the Chengdu–Chongqing region, economic, cultural, and ecological exchanges between the twin cities have become the key dimensions of their construction. In this context, the concept of the BaShu Cultural Tourism Corridor has emerged, and the traditional settlement sites in the study area have become an important node of urban–rural integration and the BaShu Cultural Tourism Corridor. The primary objective of this study is to establish a heritage corridor protection network for traditional settlements along the Chengdu–Chongqing Ancient Post Road within the Sichuan Basin of China as an example, using the minimum cost resistance model. This approach comprises several key steps: selecting traditional settlements, analyzing their distribution traits, calculating the resistance value for the spread of traditional settlement culture, identifying potential cultural corridors, identifying cultural spaces, and, thus, constructing a protection network. The results show that the spatial distribution of traditional settlements in the study area shows obvious clustering characteristics, the core ecological space in this study is located in the mountains in the north and the southwest, and the cultural spaces are located along the central and southwestern sections, creating a linear distribution pattern. In the ecological culture corridor network, the Premier Corridor is the most extensive of the three categories, connects important cultural area, and serves as a vital conduit for developing heritage tourism strategies. This research aims to bolster the comprehensive protection and application of the region’s traditional cultural heritage, fostering the integration of urban and rural zones and enhancing regional cultural tourism. Future research directions are to integrate the conservation of traditional settlements and the surrounding environment at different planning scales with local policies and to expand the role of digital technology in the data management and visualization of ecocultural corridors.
Sustainability of the Collection of Norwegian Household Waste
Authors: Bø Eirill , Baxter John
Published: February 2025

Background: Despite concerted research efforts, the collection of domestic waste remains poorly understood in terms of financial and environmental cost drivers. Detailed studies of specific systems, yielding limited broader understanding, remain the norm. Methods: This study presents flexible and generally applicable models for domestic waste transport logistics, based on economic cost and environmental impact calculations. Results: The calculations reveal key sensitivities by highlighting the most important cost and environmental drivers and linking these to key factors relating to the deployment of staff and collection vehicles, behaviour of consumers, and others. Conclusions: This study demonstrates these elements in a Norwegian context, showing that the models can inform tactical and operational decision-making for the logistics of domestic waste collection, and inform policy development in the area.
Cellular Automaton Simulation of Corrosion in 347H Steel Exposed to Molten Solar Salt at Pilot-Plant Scale
Authors: Reinoso-Burrows Juan C. , Cortés-Carmona Marcelo , Henríquez Mauro , Fuentealba Edward , Alvear Andrés , Soto Carlos , Durán Carlos , Pastén Raúl , Guerreiro Luis , Madrid Felipe M. Galleguillos
Published: February 2025

The fast-paced depletion of fossil fuels and environmental concerns have intensified interest in renewable energies, with dispatchable solar energy emerging as a key alternative. Concentrated solar power (CSP) technology, utilizing thermal energy storage (TES) systems with molten salts at 560 °C, offers significant potential for large-scale energy generation. However, these extreme conditions pose challenges related to material corrosion, which is critical for maintaining the efficiency and lifespan of CSP. This research modeled the corrosion process of 347H stainless steel in molten solar salt (60% NaNO3 + 40% KNO3) melted at 400 °C using a cellular automaton (CA) algorithm. The CA model simulated oxide growth under pilot-plant conditions in a lattice of 400 × 400 cells. SEM-EDS imaging compared the model with a mean squared error of 2%, corresponding to a corrosion layer of 4.25 µm after 168 h. The simulation applied von Neumann and Margolus neighborhoods for the ion movement and reaction rules, achieving a cell size of 0.125 µm and 10.08 s per iteration. This study demonstrates the CA model’s effectiveness in replicating corrosion processes, offering a tool to optimize material performance in CSP systems. Additionally, continuing this investigation could contribute to the development of industrial applications, enabling the design of preventive strategies for large-scale operations.
Effect of Sn Addition on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Sintered Ti2AlNb-Based Alloys
Authors: Li Zhu , Zhang Yaran , Yan Xifeng , Xia Guoqing , Yu Qilin , Li Xinze , Cai Qi
Published: February 2025

Using cold isostatic pressing and atmospheric pressure sintering, Ti-18Al-28Nb-xSn alloys were synthesized by incorporating 0.5 at.%, 1 at.%, 2 at.%, and 4 at.% Sn powder into Ti, Al, and Nb powders. This study investigated the effects of Sn concentration on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti2AlNb-based alloys, with a particular focus on the underlying strengthening mechanisms. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis identified α2, O, and B2 as the primary phases in the alloy and demonstrated that Sn addition significantly influenced the proportions of these phases, thus impacting the overall mechanical performance of Ti2AlNb-based alloys. The optimal combination of elasticity, strength, and plasticity was achieved at a Sn concentration of 1 at.%; at this time, the elastic modulus of the alloy was 26.8 GPa, with a compressive strength of up to 1352 MPa and a fracture strain of 42.8%. However, further increases in Sn content beyond this level led to reductions in both strength and plasticity. At Sn concentrations above 2 at.%, increased porosity and the formation of micropores were observed, facilitating microcrack aggregation and fracture, which ultimately compromised the alloy’s mechanical integrity. By exploring the intrinsic strengthening mechanisms, this study tries to understand the influence of Sn on the strengthening effects and to optimize the content range of Sn addition to ensure the best strengthening effect and good density are shown in high-Nb-content TiAl alloy, providing a reference for future research in this field.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrocatalytic Properties of PrMn0.5M0.5O3 (M = Cr, Fe, Co, Ni) Perovskites
Authors: Ramadani Besarta Cheliku , Sela Jeta , Stojanov Leon , Popovska Sofija , Mirčeski Valentin , Bukleski Miha , Dimitrovska-Lazova Sandra , Reka Arianit A. , Aleksovska Slobotka
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the synthesis, characterization, and investigation of electrocatalytic properties of perovskites of general formula PrMn0.5M0.5O3 (M = Cr, Fe, Co, Ni) are presented. The synthesis was conducted by the solution combustion method using glycine as a fuel. The perovskite with the formula PrMn0.5Fe0.5O3 was also synthesized by the sol–gel combustion method with citric acid as fuel. The obtained perovskites were investigated by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), infrared spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. The XRPD patterns showed that the compounds are pure and isostructural within the series. The unit cell parameters of the compounds were determined within the Pnma space group, and several crystallochemical parameters were calculated and discussed. The recorded SEM images of the perovskites revealed a porous morphology, while the EDX analysis confirmed the 2:1:1 atomic percentage ratio of Pr:Mn:M. Within this investigation, the electrocatalytic properties of the obtained perovskites towards oxidation of OH− ions and H2O2 oxidation in phosphate buffer were studied by cyclic voltammetry, using a paraffin-impregnated graphite electrode (PIGE) modified with microcrystals of the investigated perovskites. PrMn0.5Fe0.5O3 showed high electrocatalytic activity for OH− oxidation, while both PrMn0.5Fe0.5O3 and PrMn0.5Co0.5O3 exhibited significant efficiency for H2O2 oxidation, with a distinct oxidation peak with a peak potential of 0.6 V.
Investigation of Engine Lubrication Oil Quality Using a Support Vector Machine and Electronic Nose
Authors: Adelkhani Ali , Daneshkhah Ehsan
Published: February 2025

Monitoring the quality of engine oil improves engine efficiency and reduces engine maintenance costs. Several methods have been proposed for this purpose; however, most of them take too long to test oil quality. This paper introduces a fast, simple, and accurate method to determine oil quality using an electronic nose and artificial intelligence. The TU5 engine and 10-40W “Behran Super Pishtaz” engine oil were used in the experiments. Tests were conducted at six different quality levels. Oil properties such as viscosity, density, flash point, and freezing point were measured at each level. Additionally, oil smell signals were recorded using an olfactory machine at these quality levels. The fraction method was employed to adjust the sensors’ responses. Five statistical features were extracted from each signal, and these features were used to train and test a support vector machine (SVM) for classifying oil quality using the five-fold cross-validation method. The results indicated a statistically significant change in viscosity and density with variations in oil quality. The density increased as the quality decreased. Viscosity, however, initially decreased and then increased at later stages. An analysis of the sensory outputs revealed that changes in oil quality also affected these outputs, with the most pronounced sensitivity observed in the MQ135 and MQ138 sensors. The final accuracies of the SVM in classifying oil quality were 68.22%, 85.86%, and 95.44% for linear, radial basis function (RBF), and polynomial kernels, respectively. The SVM sensitivities for oil qualities A, B, C, D, E, and F were 97.99%, 97.37%, 95.51%, 92.67%, 94.48%, and 94.59%, respectively.
Enhanced Multilinear PCA for Efficient Image Analysis and Dimensionality Reduction: Unlocking the Potential of Complex Image Data
Authors: Sun Tianyu , He Lang , Fang Xi , Xie Liang
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an Enhanced Multilinear Principal Component Analysis (EMPCA) algorithm, an improved variant of the traditional Multilinear Principal Component Analysis (MPCA) tailored for efficient dimensionality reduction in high-dimensional data, particularly in image analysis tasks. EMPCA integrates random singular value decomposition to reduce computational complexity while maintaining data integrity. Additionally, it innovatively combines the dimensionality reduction method with the Mask R-CNN algorithm, enhancing the accuracy of image segmentation. Leveraging tensors, EMPCA achieves dimensionality reduction that specifically benefits image classification, face recognition, and image segmentation. The experimental results demonstrate a 17.7% reduction in computation time compared to conventional methods, without compromising accuracy. In image classification and face recognition experiments, EMPCA significantly enhances classifier efficiency, achieving comparable or superior accuracy to algorithms such as Support Vector Machines (SVMs). Additionally, EMPCA preprocessing exploits latent information within tensor structures, leading to improved segmentation performance. The proposed EMPCA algorithm holds promise for reducing image analysis runtimes and advancing rapid image processing techniques.
Phosphate Tailings and Clay-Based Ceramic Membranes: Tailoring Microstructure and Filtration Properties via Alkali Activation
Authors: El Azizi Amine , El Harouachi Hanane , Ahoudi Dounia , Maliki Soundouss , Mansori Mohammed , Loutou Mohamed
Published: February 2025

The increasing demand for sustainable water treatment technologies has driven the development of advanced ceramic membranes with tailored properties. This study explores the fabrication of ceramic membranes using phosphate tailings and clay lithologies as alternative raw materials, offering a sustainable and cost-effective approach to membrane production. The focus is on tailoring membrane porosity through the deposition of multilayered alkali-activated coatings, leveraging geopolymerization chemistry to enhance structural and functional performance. The manufactured ceramic membranes were investigated using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and a filtration test pilot. Results revealed the suitability of both phosphate tailing and the clay for membrane processing, while alkali activation effectively modulates the membrane’s porosity (from 1–10 μm to 0.1–1 μm) and mechanical strength (up to 20 MPa). Both tailored and untailored membranes demonstrated favorable performance. Key findings include the formation of a well-interconnected pore network and improved compressive strength, which resulted in sustained filtration performance under challenging operational conditions. The membranes demonstrated their suitability for environmental and industrial applications by achieving high efficiency in industrial effluent filtration tests.
Exploring the Interfacial Microstructure Evolution and Bonding Properties of Al/Steel Composite Plates Fabricated Through Semi-Solid Cast-Rolling
Authors: Qiu Jin , Li Yuandong , Zhou Hongwei , Bi Guangli
Published: February 2025

This study prepared Al/steel composite plates with high shear strength using semi-solid cast-rolling (SSCR). The results indicate that the semi-solid diffusion effectively reduced the diffusion and reaction rate between Al and steel, thereby impeding the formation of the free FeAl3 phase and mitigating the rapid growth of the Fe2Al5 phase, facilitating the regulation of the microstructure and bonding property. Notably, the morphology of the FeAl3 phase transformed from a loose sponge-like eutectic structure to a densely serrated-like configuration with the increase in the holding time, correlating with an enhancement in shear strength. At a holding time of 120 s, the shear strength of a 5.5 mm thick composite plate reached a notable 68.5 MPa. After a holding time of 120 s, the thickness of the FeAl3 phase stabilized at approximately 9.5 μm. However, the grain size and thickness of the Fe2Al5 phase continued to increase, leading to a subsequent decline in shear strength. Furthermore, shear strength increased substantially with the decreasing thickness of the composite plate. SSCR enabled the formation of dense intermetallic compounds (IMCs) with grain sizes below 3 μm at the Al/steel interface while retaining residual compressive stress within the matrix, yielding shear strength higher than that of composite casting and comparable to composite rolling.
Pathogenic and Non-Pathogenic Microbes in the Wound Microbiome—How to Flip the Switch
Authors: Liegenfeld Sophie Charlotte , Stenzel Svenja , Rembe Julian-Dario , Dittmer Mandy , Ramos Paulo , Stuermer Ewa Klara
Published: February 2025

The wound microbiome refers to the specific community of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, that are present in and around a wound. This microbiome plays a crucial role in wound healing, as it includes both healing-promoting and pathogenic microbes. The balance between these microbes significantly influences the healing process; a balanced microbial colonization can support wound healing and prevent infections, while an overgrowth of pathogenic microbes can lead to delayed healing processes and complications. The composition of the wound microbiome can vary depending on the type of wound, cause, genetic predisposition, and (social) environment. In this scope review, the complex interactions in the wound microbiome will be highlighted and the importance of non-pathogenic microbes for wound healing will be discussed. In addition, possible therapeutic approaches to restore a healthy microbiome and prevent infections will be addressed. A deeper understanding of these dynamics could open up new perspectives for the treatment of wounds and the development of strategies to combat wound infections.