bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CMADRL: cross-modal attention based deep reinforcement learning for mobile robot’s obstacle avoidance
Authors: Lu Zhaoqing , He Li , Wang Hongwei , Yuan Liang , Xiao Wendong , Liu Zhening , Chen Yaohua
Published: February 2025

The multimodal perception is crucial for mobile robots to achieve safe autonomous steering in complex and changing environments without colliding with obstacles. In spite of the fact that rich environmental information can be provided by the multimodal data, how to integrate the complementary features from different sources effectively remains an open issue. In this paper, a simple yet effective multimodal deep reinforcement learning (DRL) method, concise and effective multimodal DRL, by fusing two input modalities such as depth images and pseudo-LiDAR data generated by RGB-D cameras, is proposed to improve the performance of single sensor in environmental perception tasks. And the convolutional LSTM network layers are also adopted to extract spatiotemporal features and capture temporal relationships in consecutive time steps, which allow the robot to predict dynamic changes of the environment. In addition, A cross-modal fusion module is designed to optimize the multimodal data fusion scheme, with dynamic weighting and the merging of features from different modalities, allowing the agent to focus more reasonably on the current state and improving the accuracy and efficiency of the obstacle avoidance strategy. The experimental results show that the proposed approach achieved significant performance in cumulative rewards, convergence speed, and success rate. Additionally, tests in both simulated and real-world environments further verify that collisions are effectively avoided using only a low-cost RGB-D camera, demonstrating the method’s strong generalization capabilities.
Enhancing gas–liquid two-phase stratified flow imaging with EIGEN-NET: a fusion of deep learning and measurement matrices
Authors: Yang Xuanxuan , Chen Haofeng , Xu Gengchen , Ma Gang , Wang Xiaojie
Published: February 2025

Gas–liquid two-phase stratified flow is a common occurrence in various industries, demanding real-time monitoring and precise measurement for safety and operational efficiency. Current methods primarily rely on sensors or limited imaging technologies, leaving room for improvement. In this paper, we introduce the EIGEN-Net framework, specifically designed for real-time monitoring of gas–liquid stratified flow within pipelines, utilizing electrical impedance tomography (EIT). EIT, a noninvasive imaging method, shows potential despite challenges from gas affecting voltage stability in image reconstruction. EIGEN-Net capitalizes on measurement matrices and deep learning to enhance measurement accuracy. It extracts crucial physical properties characterizing liquid fractions and employs acquired voltage data to pre-reconstruct a tensor. By fusing these tensors with prior information, it significantly improves imaging outcomes, effectively addressing data insufficiency issues. The incorporation of adaptive information into deep learning networks eliminates the necessity for data classification. Moreover, this approach accommodates scenarios of continuous flow variation, enhancing imaging resolution. EIGEN-Net’s versatility extends to other two-phase flow scenarios and sensor measurement matrices, holding promise for applications in various industrial inspection domains.

EIGEN-Net:Deep Learning Fusion Network Guided by Leading Eigenvalues of Measurement Matrix
Prediction of both diffusive and hydraulic conductance in the pore network model extracted from 3D images using deep learning
Authors: Huang Xiang , Lu Bin , Yuan Zigang , Zhou Wei , Liu Bin , Jiang Kaiyong
Published: February 2025

Pore network modeling (PNM), with network extracted from 3D images, is widely used to study mass transport in porous media. Its accuracy heavily depends on the precise determination of hydraulic and diffusive conductance values of local pore pairs. Deep learning (DL), leveraging true pore geometry, offers a promising approach for conductance estimation. However, due to the arbitrary complexity of 3D pore pair geometries, most studies have relied exclusively on 2D cross sectional images for hydraulic conductance prediction. Therefore, in this work, a convolutional neural network was trained to estimate diffusive and hydraulic conductance values, with reference ground truth values obtained by applying the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) on 3D pore pair geometries. The main contributions include: (1) 3D image preprocessing to align pore pair geometries with LBM fluid flow, (2) high prediction accuracy with a 3D residual neural network-18 model (R
2 = 0.95 for diffusive and R
2 = 0.94 for hydraulic conductance), and (3) insights on the importance of full 3D geometry for accurate hydraulic conductance evaluation. To evaluate the generality of our method, we calculated the permeability and diffusivity of 3D porous media across a wide range of porosities using PNM, with DL predicted local conductance values. Results show accurate diffusivity predictions, but permeability was underestimated due to over-segmentation of pore spaces, which reduced flow rate estimates.
Multi-task learning for automated contouring and dose prediction in radiotherapy
Authors: Kim Sangwook , Khalifa Aly , Purdie Thomas G , McIntosh Chris
Published: February 2025

Objective. Deep learning (DL)-based automated contouring and treatment planning has been proven to improve the efficiency and accuracy of radiotherapy. However, conventional radiotherapy treatment planning process has the automated contouring and treatment planning as separate tasks. Moreover in DL, the contouring and dose prediction tasks for automated treatment planning are done independently. Approach. In this study, we applied the multi-task learning (MTL) approach in order to seamlessly integrate automated contouring and voxel-based dose prediction tasks, as MTL can leverage common information between the two tasks and be able to increase the efficiency of the automated tasks. We developed our MTL framework using the two datasets: in-house prostate cancer dataset and the publicly available head and neck cancer dataset, OpenKBP. Main results. Compared to the sequential DL contouring and treatment planning tasks, our proposed method using MTL improved the mean absolute difference of dose volume histogram metrics of prostate and head and neck sites by 19.82% and 16.33%, respectively. Our MTL model for automated contouring and dose prediction tasks demonstrated enhanced dose prediction performance while maintaining or sometimes even improving the contouring accuracy. Compared to the baseline automated contouring model with the Dice score coefficients of 0.818 for prostate and 0.674 for head and neck datasets, our MTL approach achieved average scores of 0.824 and 0.716 for these datasets, respectively. Significance. Our study highlights the potential of the proposed automated contouring and planning using MTL to support the development of efficient and accurate automated treatment planning for radiotherapy.
Transport resistance strikes back: unveiling its impact on fill factor losses in organic solar cells
Authors: Saladina Maria , Deibel Carsten
Published: February 2025

The fill factor (

F
F

) is a critical parameter for solar cell efficiency, but its analytical description is challenging due to the interplay between recombination and charge extraction processes. A significant factor contributing to

F
F

losses, beyond recombination, that has not received much attention is the influence of charge transport. In most state-of-the-art organic solar cells, the primary limitations of the

F
F

do not just arise from non-radiative recombination, but also from low conductivity of the organic semiconductors. A closer look reveals that even in the highest efficiency cells, performance losses due to transport resistance are significant. This finding highlights the need for refined models to predict the

F
F

accurately. Here, we extend the analytical model for transport resistance to a more general case by incorporating energetic disorder. We introduce a straightforward set of equations to predict the

F
F

of a solar cell, enabling the differentiation of losses attributed to recombination and transport resistance. Our analytical model is validated with a large set of experimental current–voltage and light intensity-dependent open-circuit voltage data for a wide range of temperatures. Based on our findings, we provide valuable insights into strategies for mitigating

F
F

losses, guiding the development of more efficient solar cell designs and optimisation strategies.
Phase field modeling of sub-parabolic oxidation kinetics and in-plane stress in zircaloy under neutron/proton irradiation
Authors: Xin Tianyuan , Kharchenko Dmitrii O , Kharchenko Vasyl O , Lu Wu
Published: February 2025

A detailed study of the sub-parabolic oxidation kinetics in Zircaloy system has been carried out by using phase field modeling under conditions related to oxidation in autoclave and during neutron/proton irradiation. The exploited phase field model is factored in temperature gradient and voltage change between metal and oxide surface. It is shown that the irradiation accelerates oxidation rate and induces development of conjugated in-plane stress. It is found that both in-plane and tensile stresses result in a power-law decrease in a critical time for fragmentation versus dose rate. It is shown that a critical crystallite size for the related tetragonal to monoclinic phase transformation at the oxide/metal interface decreases with the dose rate. Obtained results correlate well with experimental observations in the reference points and can be exploited to estimate corrosion resistance linked to transformation to monoclinic structure and fragmentation in zirconium-based cladding materials. This study provides a deep insight into the details of oxidation kinetics at irradiation in zirconium alloys.
Comprehensive study of highly efficient Rb2AgInX6 (X = Cl, Br, I) based lead-free double perovskite solar cells
Authors: Deswal Vishal , Baghel Sarita
Published: February 2025

Lead-free Double Perovskite Solar Cells (DPSCs) have generated great study interest recently as a potential perovskite absorber layer, due to their cost-effectiveness, impressive stability, and superior performance. In this study, we investigated Rb2AgInX6(Cl, Br, I) based DPSCs using SCAPS-1D simulation software. Various properties, such as the density of states for conduction and valance bands, carrier concentration, and carrier mobility (electrons and holes), were calculated for simulation. Furthermore, we have optimized defect density, electron affinity, and thickness of absorber layers for Rb2AgInX6-based DPSCs. We investigated how DPSC parameters were impacted by operating temperature and then performed band gap tuning for Rb2AgInBr6-based DPSC along with their temperature stability. Tandem solar cells (TSC) have had an enormous influence on the field of photovoltaics (PV) because of their ability to effectively use a wider range of solar spectrum and reduce unwanted energy loss. In this context, we have simulated Rb2AgInBr6/Rb2AgInI6 based an all double perovskite tandem solar cells and optimized the same for future experimental applications. The optimized PCE of 12.14%, 26.49%, and 13.95% were obtained for Rb2AgInX6(X = Cl, Br, I respectively) based DPSCs. In comparison, the PCE of 38.70% was obtained for tandem structure.
Deterministic sub-Heisenberg limit phase sensitivity with the squeezed coherent state via balanced homodyne detection
Authors: Li Chenlu , Ke Shaoqiu , Ruan Pengxiang , Jing Qingli , Zhang Mingming , Wang Houlian , Wang Yuanxiang , Liu Jun
Published: February 2025

We investigate the phase sensitivities of three schemes with the input of the squeezed coherent states based on the Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI). With employing the balanced homodyne detection, the phase sensitivities of these schemes can surpass the shot noise limit (SNL) and reach the sub-Heisenberg limit. By adjusting the combination of the squeezing parameter and the photon number of the coherent state, both the phase sensitivities with using the balanced homodyne detection and the quantum Cramer–Rao bound can be improved. In the regime of low squeezing parameters, the scheme with the two-mode squeezed coherent state outperforms the other two schemes. The phase sensitivity can only reach the sub-SNL when the photon number is much larger. These schemes exhibit strong robustness against internal losses of the MZI and photon detector losses. This work will play an important role in the field of quantum precision measurement.
Enhancing the prediction of flow characteristics in an inventive plate heat exchanger using deep learning techniques
Authors: Bakır Rezan , Aboul Khail Ahmad , Bakır Halit
Published: February 2025

In modern energy research, minimizing fuel usage and harmful gas emissions are critical priorities. The application of advanced deep learning (DL) models to predict thermohydraulic characteristics of an innovative plate heat exchanger (IPHE) is investigated in this study. Building upon our prior work utilizing machine learning (ML) models, the focus is placed on predicting the Nusselt Number (Nu), friction factor (f), and performance (P) within a Reynolds number range of 500 to 5000. Advanced DL architectures-GRU, LSTM, and CNN-are utilized, resulting in substantial improvements in prediction accuracy and robustness. The LSTM model demonstrates superior performance, achieving R2 scores of 0.9986, 0.9985, and 0.9968 for Nu, f, and P, respectively, significantly surpassing prior ML model results of 0.98, 0.979, and 0.9628. The findings highlight the capacity of DL models to capture complex, nonlinear relationships in thermohydraulic data, offering an enhanced approach to optimizing plate heat exchanger (PHE) performance. This work contributes to energy-efficient technological advancements, supporting global efforts to reduce environmental impacts while addressing rising energy demands.
First-principles study of the impact of rhenium and osmium on the energetics of helium clusters in tungsten
Authors: Zhou Yanyao , Huang Gui-Yang , Hu Xunxiang
Published: February 2025

Understanding interaction between transmutation elements and helium is critically important for precisely predicting the performance of tungsten plasma facing materials in fusion reactors. The energetics of He interstitial clusters (He
n
), He interstitial- rhenium (Re)/osmium (Os) substitutional clusters (He
n
Resub/He
n
Ossub), He interstitial-tungsten(W)/Re/Os interstitial clusters (He
n
IW/Re/Os), He-vacancy-Re/Os substitutional clusters (He
n
V1/2Resub/He
n
V1/2Ossub) and He-vacancy-W/Re/Os interstitial clusters (He
n
V1/2 IW/Re/Os) in bulk body-centered cubic tungsten were investigated by using first-principles calculations. The critical numbers of He required for the self-trapping and trap mutation reactions were calculated with/without a neighboring Re/Os substitutional as well as for the case of a neighboring W/Re/Os interstitial present, based on both dissociation and transformation mechanisms. The trapping effects of Re/Os substitutional or W/Re/Os interstitial on the mobile small He
n
clusters were discussed.
The quantum XY chain with boundary fields: finite-size gap and phase behavior
Authors: Coraggio Aldo , Pelissetto Andrea
Published: February 2025

We present a detailed study of the finite-size one-dimensional quantum XY chain in a transverse field in the presence of boundary fields coupled with the order-parameter spin operator. We consider fields located at the chain boundaries that have the same strength and that are oppositely aligned. We derive exact expressions for the gap Δ as a function of the model parameters for large values of the chain length L. These results allow us to characterize the nature of the ordered phases of the model. We find a magnetic (M) phase (

Δ
∼

e

−
a
L

), a magnetic-incommensurate (MI) phase (

Δ
∼

e

−
a
L

f

MI

(
L
)

), a kink (K) phase (

Δ
∼

L

−
2

) and a kink-incommensurate (KI) phase (

Δ
∼

L

−
2

f

KI

(
L
)

);

f

MI

(
L
)

and

f

KI

(
L
)

are bounded oscillating functions of L. We also analyze the behavior along the phase boundaries. In particular, we characterize the universal crossover behavior across the K-KI phase boundary. On this boundary, the dynamic critical exponent is z = 4, i.e.

Δ
∼

L

−
4

for large values of L.
Information storage and transfer in autoregulated cascades
Authors: Biswas Ayan
Published: February 2025

We present a Gaussian framework to investigate the role of autoregulation in information storage and transfer in one-step cascades by considering activation and inhibition of the autoregulated transcription factor and the output gene it drives. With an increasing autoregulatory synthesis rate of the transcription factor, the information stored by the output gene product and the information transferred from the transcription factor to the output increase when both biochemical species are activated or inhibited. If they are regulated differently, an increasing autoregulatory synthesis rate decreases information storage and transfer. An autoactivated transcription factor activating the output is the best architecture for storing and transferring information. Interestingly, this network is also the noisiest in the family of autoregulated cascades. To unravel this nontrivial information-noise correspondence, we provide analytical results that tie correlated and uncorrelated noise factors to information storage and transfer, respectively.
Exact solution of dynamical mean-field theory for a linear system with annealed disorder
Authors: Ferraro Francesco , Grilletta Christian , Maritan Amos , Suweis Samir , Azaele Sandro
Published: February 2025

We investigate a disordered multi-dimensional linear system in which the interaction parameters are colored noises, varying stochastically in time with defined temporal correlations. We refer to this type of disorder as ‘annealed’, in contrast to quenched disorder in which couplings are fixed over time. Using generating functional methods, we extend dynamical mean-field theory to accommodate annealed disorder and employ it to find the exact solution of the linear model in the limit of a large number of degrees of freedom. Our analysis yields analytical results for the non-stationary autocorrelation, the stationary variance, the power spectral density, and the phase diagram of the model. Some unexpected features emerge upon changing the correlation time of the interactions. The stationary variance of the system and the critical variance of the disorder are generally found to be non-monotonic functions of the correlation time of the interactions. We also find that a re-entrant phase transition can take place when this correlation time is varied.
Quantum Toolbox for Neurobiology Sensory Systems
Authors: Chiofalo Marilù
Published: February 2025

The quantum-like paradigm has emerged over the last decade to describe non-linear, dynamical, complex phenomena using quantum mechanics as a tool. In essence, it takes advantage of the linearity of quantum information processing, allowing for complex correlations through entanglement. In a quantum- and neuroscience truly interdisciplinary research, we found that an open quantum spin network, mapping a neural system, can successfully simulate the human sense of number as a global dynamical property, in contrast with the poor performance of conventional Artificial Neural Networks. Here, we discuss how the simulation can be extended to other important complex perceptual phenomena like the perception of space, time, and numbers, known to be interdependent with each other, suggesting that a shared neuronal mechanism is operating in the brain. Here we present a research program that aims at creating a quantum toolbox to simulate this integrated space-time-number sensory ability of our brain, with open-quantum systems methods. We will explore the implications of more general quantum-matter paradigms, and their possible coding into a quantum technology.
Work extraction from a controlled quantum emitter
Authors: K G Paulson , Terletska Hanna , Fotso Herbert
Published: February 2025

We investigate how an external driving field can control the amount of extractable work from a quantum emitter, a two-level quantum system (TLS) interacting with a photonic environment. In this scenario, the TLS functions as a quantum battery, interacting with the photonic bath that discharges it while the control field recharges it. Ergotropy serves as our measure of the extractable work from the quantum system. We systematically analyze how the ergotropy of the system evolves as it interacts with the photonic bath under the control of either a continuous driving field or a periodic pulse sequence. The coherent and incoherent contributions to the total ergotropy for various initial states are calculated. The role of detuning between the driving field and the emission frequency of the TLS, as well as the initial state of the system in work extraction, are investigated for continuous and periodic pulse-driving fields. We show that detuning has little impact on work extraction for a system that is driven by a periodic sequence of instantaneous pulses. However, for a continuously driven system, as the system approaches its steady state, ergotropy increases with detuning increases.
Manuel de Falla's El amor brujo
Authors: Hess Carol A
Published: February 2025

El amor brujo (Love, the Magician) is a theater work by the Spanish classical composer Manuel de Falla that showcases flamenco, the music of the Spanish Gitanos (gypsies). When it premiered in Spain, in 1915, it proved controversial: some Spanish critics applauded Falla for celebrating the music of a marginalized culture while others attacked his mixing of classical and popular idioms. El amor brujo has long intrigued arrangers and artists, however. It has been repeatedly reshaped, rearranged, and repackaged, either by Falla himself or by artists ranging from the concert pianist Artur Rubinstein to the super-showman Liberace to various jazz and pop arrangers. El amor brujo has also figured in soundtracks. Frothy “movie musicals” from the 1940s, somber accounts of recent Spanish history, and films on anti-Black racism, including one by Spike Lee, have all drawn on El amor brujo. How did this rich trajectory come about? This book invites the reader to explore music, the culture industry, and race through El amor brujo.
Estimating measured creatinine clearance for critically ill trauma patients with presumed normal kidney function
Authors: Dickerson Roland N , Adams Delaney S , Farrar Julie E , Swanson Joseph M , Soule Sara , Byerly Saskya , Filiberto Dina M , Hudson Joanna Q
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The intent of this study was to evaluate the predictive performance of two common methods for estimating kidney function in critically ill trauma patients with presumed normal kidney function.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 2 common methods for estimating kidney function, the Cockcroft-Gault (CG) and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (2021 CKD-EPI) equations, was undertaken for adult trauma patients. Patients with a 24-hour urine collection for determination of measured creatinine clearance (mCrCl) within 4 to 14 days after admission were included in the study. Patients with a serum creatinine concentration of >1.5 mg/dL or who required dialysis were excluded.

Results

The 200 patients included in the study had a median (IQR) mCrCl of 184 (141-233) mL/min; both the CG and CKD-EPI equations were biased towards underpredicting mCrCl, with median (IQR) values of 135 (100-177) mL/min and 135 (113-155) mL/min, respectively (P < 0.001). One hundred twenty-two patients had augmented renal clearance (ARC), defined as an mCrCl of >129 mL/min/1.73m2, and those patients had a median (IQR) mCrCl of 216 (188-265) mL/min; both the CG and CKD-EPI equations were biased towards underpredicting mCrCl in patients with ARC: the median (IQR) estimates were 160 (126-197) mL/min and 147 (129-164) mL/min, respectively (P < 0.001). For those without ARC (n = 78), the median (IQR) mCrCl was 125 (98-153) mL/min; both the CG and CKD-EPI equations underpredicted mCrCl, with median estimates of 98 (76-116) mL/min and 112 (92-132) mL/min, respectively (P < 0.001). The CKD-EPI equation outperformed the CG method for all markers of precision in patients without ARC (P < 0.003).

Conclusion

Common predictive equations for assessing kidney function in critically ill patients with traumatic injuries underpredicted mCrCl, especially in those with ARC.
NPD7426 suppresses sterol regulatory element-binding proteins by promoting the degradation of mature SREBP forms
Authors: Kodaka Manami , Matsunaga Yuki , Terada Seiya , Kamei Minami , Suzuki Tsukasa , Yamamoto Yuji , Inoue Jun
Published: February 2025

Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) are transcription factors that regulate various genes involved in cholesterol and fatty acid synthesis, playing a central role in lipid metabolism regulation in vivo. SREBP-1c activity is significantly elevated in the liver under conditions of obesity, fatty liver disease, and type II diabetes, while suppression of SREBP-1c activity has been shown to alleviate these symptoms. Consequently, targeting SREBP-1c activity is considered a potential therapeutic approach for these conditions. In this study, we identified NPD7426 as a compound with inhibitory effects on SREBP activity. Furthermore, we demonstrated that NPD7426 promotes the proteasome-mediated degradation of mature SREBP protein forms. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism of SREBP activity suppression by small-molecule compounds containing NPD7426, suggesting that NPD7426 may be a promising candidate for the development of therapeutic drugs targeting SREBPs.
Deletion of an evolutionarily conserved TAD boundary impacts spermatogenesis in mice
Authors: Lima Ana C , Okhovat Mariam , Stendahl Alexandra M , Yang Ran , VanCampen Jake , Nevonen Kimberly A , Herrera Jarod , Li Weiyu , Harshman Lana , Fedorov Lev M , Vigh-Conrad Katinka A , Ahituv Nadav , Conrad Donald F , Carbone Lucia
Published: February 2025

Spermatogenesis is a complex process that can be disrupted by genetic and epigenetic changes, potentially leading to male infertility. Recent research has rapidly increased the number of coding mutations causally linked to impaired spermatogenesis in humans and mice. However, the role of noncoding mutations remains largely unexplored. To evaluate the effects of noncoding mutations on spermatogenesis, we first identified an evolutionarily conserved topologically associated domain boundary near two genes with important roles in mammalian testis function: Dmrtb1 and Lrp8. We then used CRISPR-Cas9 to generate a mouse line where 26 kb of the boundary was removed including a strong and evolutionarily conserved CTCF binding site. ChIP-seq and Hi-C experiments confirmed the removal of the CTCF site and a resulting mild increase in the DNA–DNA interactions across the domain boundary. Mutant mice displayed significant changes in testis gene expression, a higher frequency of histological abnormalities, a drop of 47–52% in efficiency of meiosis, a 15–18% reduction in efficiency of spermatogenesis, and, consistently, a 12–28% decrease in daily sperm production compared to littermate controls. Despite these quantitative changes in testis function, mutant mice show no significant changes in fertility. This suggests that noncoding deletions affecting testis gene regulation may have smaller effects on fertility compared to coding mutations of the same genes. Our results demonstrate that disruption of a topologically associated domain boundary can have a negative impact on sperm production and highlight the importance of considering noncoding mutations in the analysis of patients with male infertility.
Anti-Müllerian hormone concentration measured before gonadotropin stimulation is associated with quality of subsequent ovarian response in the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) and domestic cat (Felis catus)
Authors: Bovell Rhasaan T M , Comizzoli Pierre , Nagashima Jennifer B , Santiestevan Jenny , Crosier Adrienne E , Place Ned J
Published: February 2025

Relationships between anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations and subsequent ovarian stimulation outcomes have been demonstrated in several mammalian species, but comprehensive reports are lacking in felids. Our objective was to characterize relationships between anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations and responses to exogenous gonadotropin stimulation in cheetahs and domestic cats. Blood samples collected before stimulation were used to measure serum anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations, which were compared to post-stimulation outcomes, including counts of retrievable oocytes or ovulation sites, oocyte quality, embryonic cleavage after in vitro fertilization, and progestogen concentrations. Anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations were also compared to outcomes in domestic cats induced to ovulate by mechanical stimulation of the vagina and cervix (simulated coitus). Greater anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations were associated with greater ovulatory response, progestogen production, and embryonic cleavage success among gonadotropin-treated cheetahs, and with greater ovulatory response among gonadotropin-treated domestic cats. Associations were moderated by age, with anti-Müllerian hormone concentration generally a greater determinant of these outcomes in older animals. Anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations alone could distinguish domestic cats with high and low ovulatory responses to exogenous hormones. However, this marker was unrelated to ovulatory response in domestic cats after simulated coitus. These results demonstrate the potential for anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations to predict responses of cheetahs and domestic cats to ovarian stimulation treatment commonly used in assisted reproductive technologies. Associations between anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations and ovarian stimulation outcomes in these species might reflect relationships between anti-Müllerian hormone concentration and antral follicle count or oocyte/embryo cellular function, as reported in other mammals; however, this remains to be tested.
Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of intralesional vitamin D3 injection in the treatment of acanthosis nigricans: A split-neck comparative study
Authors: Ali Mona S , El-Sadek Hala M , Rageh Mahmoud A
Published: February 2025

Background

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a prevalent dermatological issue with numerous treatment options that are not entirely sufficient. Topical vitamin D analogs were found to be effective and safe in treating AN; however, other preparations of vitamin D have not been studied yet.

Objectives

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intralesional vitamin D3 injection in treating pseudo-acanthosis nigricans.

Methods

We enrolled thirty subjects who had bilateral pseudo-acanthosis nigricans of the neck. Every patient received intralesional vitamin D3 therapy on the right side of the neck and intralesional saline as a control on the left side over the course of four sessions, each spaced one week apart. Cases were assessed clinically one month after the last treatment session by Acanthosis Nigricans Area and Severity Index (ANASI) score in addition to dermoscopic examination.

Results

A statistically significant decrease in ANASI score was seen between the treated and control sides both before and after treatment, with the intralesional vitamin D treated side exhibiting a larger percentage of reduction than the control side. Intralesional vitamin D3 treatment significantly improved dermoscopic features such as cristae cutis, sulci cutis, and pigmented dots compared to the placebo treatment.

Conclusions

Intralesional vitamin D3 is a safe and effective modality for treating pseudo-acanthosis nigricans.
Machine learning-based pH quantification from test strip images using multiple color spaces
Authors: Nakamura Yuto , Nagao Masahiro
Published: February 2025

Recent advances in colorimetric analysis have focused on improving measurement accuracy through the integration of smartphone cameras and machine learning. Particular focus has been placed on enhancing predictive accuracy by combining variables from multiple color spaces. In this study, we developed a model incorporating multiple color spaces using images of universal pH test strips. For model selection, we focused on localized errors and used the mean absolute error for each pH value as an evaluation metric. As a result, by emphasizing localized errors, we were able to build a model with better generalization performance than the model selected on the basis of overall error. We implemented this model in a real-time pH measurement demo web application.
Sniffing Colors – Color associations for descriptors and odors of the MONEX-40 test
Authors: Arnhardt Sally , Fu Lilian Wei , Kornhuber Johannes , Freiherr Jessica
Published: February 2025

Research on odor-color associations provides insights into brain processes that integrate attributes from seemingly independent senses, forming crossmodal correspondences. Since multisensory integration is based, among others, on semantic congruency, we aimed to provide a color profile - encompassing hue, saturation, and lightness - for the standardized MONEX-40 test. This color profile will enable the use of odor-congruent or odor-incongruent colors in olfactory-visual studies. In Study 1, participants completed an online survey, selecting colors corresponding to each descriptor in the smell test. The analysis revealed distinct color patterns, highlighting the importance of learning in descriptor-color associations. Study 2 explored color associations for all 40 odors of the MONEX-40 at different time points. Initially, participants reported color associations based solely on odor perception. Then, they identified the odor from a set of four descriptors and reassigned colors after odor identification. Both qualitative and quantitative methods, including statistical tests and ΔE (CIE 2000) analysis, demonstrated shifts in color associations after odor identification, affecting hue, saturation and lightness. This research deepens our understanding of how color associations form in response to various stimuli, including descriptors and odors. The findings have scientific relevance, as mentioned above, but also practical applications in product development, particularly in the food and cosmetics industries, where combining specific colors and odors can enhance product appeal.
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Estimation with Cystatin C—Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Karger Amy B , Shlipak Michael G
Published: February 2025

Background

Cystatin C is a long-established filtration marker which can be used to assess kidney function, but it has been sparingly used for clinical care due to creatinine’s role as the primary biomarker for kidney function assessment based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Content

This review summarizes the evolution of cystatin C’s role in kidney disease assessment and highlights new guidelines promoting more widespread use. Specifically, the 2021 National Kidney Foundation and American Society of Nephrology Task Force on Reassessing the Inclusion of Race in Diagnosing Kidney Disease report, and the 2024 Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), recommend increased use of cystatin C as an alternative and complementary biomarker for kidney function assessment, since it does not differ by race like creatinine, correlates better with adverse outcomes compared to creatinine, and provides a more accurate eGFR when used in combination with creatinine.

While robust literature demonstrates improved accuracy with cystatin C-based eGFR (eGFRcys) in certain clinical subpopulations, future research is needed to better understand its performance relative to creatinine-based eGFR (eGFRcr) and measured glomerular filtration rate (mGFR) in additional diverse cohorts, and to achieve assay standardization to match the performance of creatinine assays. Additionally, cystatin C testing availability will need to be broadened from primarily reference laboratories to local laboratories, and partnerships will need to be developed between clinical stakeholders and the laboratory to promote cystatin C’s clinical use, to achieve widespread adoption of guideline-recommended eGFR equations.
A phloem-limited RNA phytovirus infection does not positively modulate vector preference and fitness in primary and alternate hosts
Authors: Pandey Sudeep , Roberts Phillip , Bag Sudeep , Jacobson Alana L , Srinivasan Rajagopalbabu
Published: February 2025

Colonizing aphids play an important role in the transmission of RNA phytoviruses in the family Solemoviridae. According to “host manipulation hypothesis,” phloem limited and persistently transmitted Solemoviridae viruses modulate host physiology that positively affects vector behavior and fitness and facilitates virus spread. However, it is unclear if virus-modulated host effects on vectors across pathosystems involving Solemoviridae members are always positive. Cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV) is a recently introduced Solemoviridae member in the United States, and it is transmitted by the cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii). Effects of CLRDV infection on vector behavior and fitness were evaluated on its primary host plant, cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), and an alternate host plant, hibiscus (Hibiscus acetosella). In this study, changes to viruliferous and non-viruliferous aphid preference and aphid fitness on virus-infected and non-infected hosts were examined. In contrast to the hypothesized preference of non-viruliferous aphids for infected plants and vice-versa, both viruliferous and non-viruliferous A. gossypii preferred non-infected cotton and hibiscus plants over CLRDV-infected plants. This suggested that the preference of non-viruliferous vectors to non-infected plants might negatively impact virus acquisition, whereas the preference of viruliferous vectors toward non-infected plants could positively facilitate virus inoculation. The total fecundity and intrinsic rate of increase of aphids were higher on non-infected plants compared with CLRDV-infected plants. The lack of enhanced fitness benefits on CLRDV-infected hosts also could negatively impact virus spread. Overall, this study suggested that “host manipulation hypothesis” favoring vector attraction and enhanced fitness on infected plants does not apply to all pathosystems involving Solemoviridae members.
The reversibility of cardiac damage after transcatheter aortic valve implantation and short-term outcomes in a real-world setting
Authors: Myagmardorj Rinchyenkhand , Fortuni Federico , Généreux Philippe , Nabeta Takeru , Stassen Jan , Galloo Xavier , Meucci Maria Chiara , Butcher Steele , van der Kley Frank , Cohen David J , Clavel Marie-Annick , Pibarot Philippe , Leon Martin B , Regeer Madelien V , Delgado Victoria , Ajmone Marsan Nina , Bax Jeroen J
Published: February 2025

Aims

This study aims to assess the changes in cardiac damage stage in a real-world cohort of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), and to investigate the prognostic value of cardiac damage stage evolution.

Methods and results

Patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing TAVI were retrospectively analysed. A five-stage system based on the presence and extent of cardiac damage assessed by echocardiography was applied before and 6 months after TAVI. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to examine independent prognostic value of the changes in cardiac damage after TAVI. A total of 734 patients with severe AS (mean age, 79.8 ± 7.4 years; 55% male) were included. Before TAVI, 32 (4%) patients did not show any sign of extra-valvular cardiac damage (Stage 0), 85 (12%) had left ventricular damage (Stage 1), 220 (30%) left atrial and/or mitral valve damage (Stage 2), 227 (31%) pulmonary vasculature and/or tricuspid valve damage (Stage 3), and 170 (23%) right ventricular damage (Stage 4). Six months after TAVI, 39% of the patients improved at least one stage in cardiac damage. Staging of cardiac damage at 6 months after TAVI [hazard ratio (HR) per one-stage increase, 1.391; P = 0.035] as well as worsening in the stage of cardiac damage (HR, 3.729; P = 0.005) were independently associated with 2-year all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

More than one-third of patients with severe AS showed an improvement in cardiac damage 6 months after TAVI. Staging cardiac damage at baseline and follow-up may improve risk stratification in patients undergoing TAVI.
Endo- and myocarditis as a severe complication of immune related adverse events treatment: case report
Authors: Van den Bosch Lauren , Vanclooster PieterJan , Van Offenwert Jan , Teuwen Laure-Anne , Franssen Constantijn
Published: February 2025

Background

Disseminated Aspergillus infection is a severe condition in immunocompromised patients. Mortality secondary to cardiac Aspergillus infection remains high.

Case summary

We present a case of a 45-year-old female breast cancer patient who developed Aspergillus fumigatus endocarditis and myocarditis after receiving the immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) pembrolizumab. The infection emerged as a complication following the management of a severe immune-related adverse event (irAE) with high doses of immunosuppressants, triggered by the ICI.

Discussion

The use of ICI and the subsequent treatment of irAEs with immunosuppressants introduces a new subset of immunocompromised patients at risk for fungal infections. While alternative corticosteroid-sparing immune-modulating agents such as biologicals, intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIGs) and disease modifying antirheumatic drugs have been explored, there is lack of prospective studies evaluating their efficacy and safety in this context.
The impact of atrial fibrillation on oxygen uptake and haemodynamics in patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Schmid Veronika , Foulkes Stephen J , Dziano Jenelle K , Wang Jing , Verwerft Jan , Elliott Adrian D , Haykowsky Mark J
Published: February 2025

Aims

Atrial fibrillation (AF) may exacerbate exercise intolerance and haemodynamic limitations in individuals with heart failure (HF). Therefore, we performed a systematic search and meta-analysis to quantify the impact of AF on exercise tolerance (peak oxygen uptake, VO2peak; primary outcome) and exercise haemodynamics (secondary outcomes) in patients with HF.

Methods and results

PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for articles from inception to June 2024. Studies were included if they: (i) examined participants with HF; (ii) compared participants with AF to those not in AF (i.e. sinus rhythm); (iii) measured VO2peak from expired gas analysis. A fixed effects meta-analysis was performed, with groups compared using the weighted average effect size, represented as the weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Of 573 identified studies, 16 met the full inclusion comparing VO2peak in HF-patients in AF [HF-AF; n = 1,271, 68% male, 67 years, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF): 41%], and HF in sinus rhythm (HF-SR; n = 4910; 62% male, 62 years, LVEF: 41%). VO2peak was significantly lower in HF-AF (WMD: −1.55mL/kg/min, 95%-CI: −1.81 to −1.28, n = 6471). This coincided with a slightly lower peak heart rate (WMD: −2.94 b/min, 95%-CI: −4.76 to −1.13 b/min, n = 5115), decreased O2pulse (WMD: −1.58 mL/beat, 95% CI: −1.90 to −1.26, n = 3049), and lower systolic blood pressure (WMD: −11.11 mmHg, 95% CI: −14.01 to −8.21, n = 2409).

Conclusion

In patients with HF, AF is associated with greater VO2peak impairment, potentially due to reduced stroke volume and/or arterio-venous oxygen difference. This highlights the importance of combined strategies to identify and manage AF in individuals with HF.
Managing the Acute Cardiac Functional Crisis: A Comprehensive Review of Cardiogenic Shock Management Strategies
Authors: Mahajna Ahmad , Bolotin Gil , Lorusso Roberto
Published: February 2025

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a life-threatening condition defined by the heart's inability to adequately pump blood to meet metabolic demands, leading to systemic hypoperfusion and insufficient tissue oxygenation. Despite treatment advancements, CS continues to carry high morbidity and mortality rates, especially when it follows acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Various expert groups and scientific societies have proposed recommendations and management pathways, each contributing unique insights yet sometimes overlooking important clinical considerations. This mini-review provides an updated, integrated overview of distinct CS scenarios, including ischemic, non-ischemic, and post-cardiotomy categories, and their respective treatment strategies. Additionally, this review explores management approaches that underscore the importance of early detection of inflammatory markers in non-ischemic CS and targeted therapeutic interventions for each CS subtype. Specifically, the role of pharmacological treatments is examined alongside the relevance and timing of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices. A deeper understanding of the pathophysiology and tailored management pathways for each CS type may enable clinicians to improve interventions and enhance survival and recovery in patients with CS.
Current Insights on Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Adults with Post-Cardiotomy Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Mahajna Ahmad , Ott Sascha , Haneya Assad , Leick Jürgen , Pilarczyk Kevin , Shehada Sharaf-Eldin , Bolotin Gil , Lorusso Roberto
Published: February 2025

Post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS) is a critical condition characterized by persistent low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) that manifests either as an inability to wean from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or as severe cardiac dysfunction in the immediate postoperative period despite optimal medical therapy. With an incidence of 2% to 20%, PCCS is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare resource utilization. This review explores the pathophysiology of PCCS while emphasizing mechanisms such as direct myocardial damage, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and systemic effects of extracorporeal circulation. It also discusses key diagnostic tools for PCCS including echocardiography, pulmonary artery catheters (PAC), vasoactive inotropic scores (VIS), and lactate clearance, which facilitate early recognition and management. Treatment pathways center on temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS), tailored to clinical scenarios such as the inability to wean from CPB or refractory LCOS. The pivotal role of the multidisciplinary Heart Team in decision-making, collaboration, and patient-centered care is highlighted. Finally, weaning protocols and considerations for long-term outcomes are discussed, underscoring the need for timely interventions and a personalized approach. Advances PCCS management continue to evolve, aiming to improve survival and long-term outcomes for this high-risk population.
Advancement of uridine diphosphate-dependent glycosyltransferases (UGTs) in the glycosylation modification of natural products and their protein engineering
Authors: Liu Zhongyang , Xie Lianghua , Chen Wei
Published: February 2025

Natural products have garnered significant attention due to their exceptional industrial and medicinal value. Glycosylation, a crucial structural modification in these products, is typically mediated by uridine diphosphate-dependent glycosyltransferases (UGTs). These enzymes not only enhance the physicochemical properties of natural products but also markedly increase their biological activity. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the characteristic features of UGTs and their diverse applications in the glycosylation modification of natural products, encompassing terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and amide compounds. Special emphasis has been placed on the latest strategies in UGTs’ protein engineering and high-throughput screening methods, which provides insights into the study of UGTs' protein engineering and facilitate their application in the fields of food and medicine.