bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Mineral Veins on Hydraulic Fracture Propagation
Authors: Ling Fanlin , Kong Lie , Shang Junlong
Published: January 2025

Fluids are often injected into tight geothermal reservoirs to create conductive fractures and enhance reservoir productivity. Mineral veins are ubiquitous in reservoir rocks because of the hydrothermal mineralisation process. We hypothesize that vein strength anisotropy and geometrical complexity could introduce complex hydraulic fractures through vein–fracture interactions. To test this hypothesis, we develop an improved hydro-mechanical coupled scheme using the Discrete Element Method to examine hydraulic fracture propagation in veined rocks. The coupled scheme considers incremental updates of domain volume and fluid saturation. We follow topology in root architecture to develop a benchmark model with simplified yet representative vein networks. We find that vein strength significantly influences the fracture pattern of the tested veined models during hydraulic fracturing. Cracks are preferentially reactivated in the calcite (soft) veins, leading to much more complex fracture networks compared with those created in quartz (hard) veins. An increase in stress anisotropy (high-stress contrast) leads to a reduction of the maximum aperture of dominant fractures. Under a high-stress contrast, fluid lag is not evident; the number of reactivated cracks in soft-veined models is also reduced. It is interesting to note that the bifurcation angle of veins has negligible influence on fracture patterns and propagation in the model. We also find that high-stress contrast leads to a higher level of the maximum moment magnitude and a lower b value. This research could provide some insights into reservoir stimulation to enhance production and mitigate seismic hazards.
3-Dimensional topographic enamel surface changes after different debonding techniques for aligner attachments: a micro-CT study
Authors: Turkoglu Hilal , Atik Ezgi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

To evaluate topographic changes of enamel surface in 3-dimensional after different debonding methods of aligner attachments formed with 2 different composite resins.

Methods

Vertical rectangular attachments were created on 88 premolar teeth and divided into two composite resin groups (Group 1:flowable, Group 2:packable) (N = 44). These were then divided into two subgroups (N = 22) using different debonding methods. In Group A, the attachments were firstly removed using an attachment debonding plier and then with white fiberglass. Following, the tooth surfaces were polished with blue fiberglass. In Group B, the excess attachment composite was removed with a 12-blade carbide bur, followed by a 24-blade carbide bur, and tooth surfaces were polished with Renew stone. The remaining composite volume was measured using Geomagic Control X software. Enamel surface roughness and morphological change were compared between the groups.

Results

Residual composite resin volume did not show a statistically significant difference between composite resin groups (1–2 A). The enamel demineralization volume and area changes in Group 2 A were significantly higher than observed in 2B (p < 0.05). Roughness parameters Ra (T1-T0), Ra (T2-T0), Rq (T1-T0), and Sa (T1-T0) were significantly higher in Group 1B compared to Group 1 A (p < 0.05). Similarly, Ra (T1-T0), Sa (T1-T0), and Sq (T1-T0) parameters were significantly higher in Group 2B compared to Group 2 A (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Fiberglass with a debonding plier produced a smoother enamel surface compared to carbide burs, but caused significantly more enamel demineralization, as seen in micro-CT evaluations after polishing.
Decentralized autonomous organization in built environments: applications, potential and limitations
Authors: Ly Reachsak , Shojaei Alireza
Published: January 2025

Abstracts

The operations of built environment-related sectors are often run on centralized organizational structures. This centralized approach could lead to operational challenges that restrict efficiency, hinder transparency, and misalign with the community’s interests. The emergence of decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) presents a promising avenue for addressing these issues by leveraging blockchain technology and decentralized governance models. This paper presents a review of DAO, examining its existing applications, limitations, and potential use cases in the built environment. Seven categories of DAO applications in the built environment were identified and discussed. The study also explores DAO’s fundamentals, including its governance characteristics, operational mechanism, limitations and technical implementation, and corresponding challenges. Finally, this study highlights three potential areas in the built environment for future DAO use cases. This article serves as an essential reference for future academics, professionals, and policy regulators interested in learning more about the integrations of DAO in the built environment.
New physiological insights using multi-TE ASL MRI measuring blood–brain barrier water exchange after caffeine intake
Authors: Mahroo Amnah , Buck Mareike Alicja , Konstandin Simon , Huber Jörn , Hoinkiss Daniel Christopher , Hirsch Jochen , Günther Matthias
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Caffeine, a known neurostimulant and adenosine antagonist, affects brain physiology by decreasing cerebral blood flow. It interacts with adenosine receptors to induce vasoconstriction, potentially disrupting brain homeostasis. However, the impact of caffeine on blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability to water remains underexplored. This study investigated the water exchange via the BBB in a perturbed physiological condition caused by caffeine ingestion, using the multiple echo time (multi-TE) arterial spin labeling (ASL) technique.

Material and methods

Ten healthy, regular coffee drinkers (age = 31 ± 9 years, 3 females) were scanned to acquire five measurements before and six measurements after caffeine ingestion. Data were analyzed with a multi-TE two-compartment model to estimate exchange time (Tex), serving as a proxy for BBB permeability to water. Additionally, cerebral blood flow (CBF), arterial transit time (ATT), and intravoxel transit time (ITT) were investigated.

Results

Following caffeine intake, mean gray matter CBF showed a significant time-dependent decrease (P < 0.01). In contrast, Tex, ATT, and ITT did not exhibit significant time-dependent change. However, a non-significant decreasing trend was observed for Tex and ITT, respectively, while ATT showed an increasing trend over time.

Discussion

The observed decreasing trend in Tex after caffeine ingestion suggests a potential increase in water flux across the BBB, which may represent a compensatory mechanism to maintain brain homeostasis in response to the caffeine-induced reduction in CBF. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate and expand upon these findings.
Measurement and Assessment of Head-to-Helmet Contact Forces
Authors: Jennings Turner , Tillman Aidan , Mukasa D’mitra , Marchev Michael , Müftü Sinan , Amini Rouzbeh
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the population variation in head-to-helmet contact forces in helmet users.

Methods

Four different size Kevlar composite helmets were instrumented with contact pressure sensors and chinstrap tension meters. A total number of 89 volunteers (25 female and 64 male volunteers) participated in the study. The length, width, and circumference of their heads were measured and each volunteer was assigned a helmet size. Volunteers were asked to wear the helmet in three different configurations and the chinstrap tension and contact force between the head and each of the seven interior pads were recorded.

Results

The majority of forces measured on any individual pad were between 0 and 5 N. However, some users exhibited pressure points with forces as high as 30 N. The contact force distribution is non-uniform across the interior of the helmet, with the largest force concentrated at the front. Head shape is a major driver of the observed contact force. There was a statistically significant difference between female and male volunteers, and between groups with different experience levels.

Conclusions

The fit of helmet systems is highly subject specific. The current metrics used to assign helmet sizes may not accurately predict correct helmet fit.
Thermal Degradation and Decomposition of FR4 Laminate PCB Substrates Joined by Friction Riveting
Authors: Rodrigues Camila F. , Blaga Lucian , Klusemann Benjamin
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the thermal degradation and chemical transformations of friction-riveted glass fiber-reinforced epoxy laminate (FR4) printed circuit boards (PCBs) with different copper configurations. The primary objective is to identify the critical degradation temperatures and the impact of copper layers on joint integrity and thermal stability. Cross-sectional analyses revealed that joints produced at 250 °C exhibited minimal rivet deformation, while those at 360 °C showed significant deformation and increased epoxy degradation. Thermal analyses, including Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), identified critical degradation temperatures at 327 °C for FR4-I Cu with a single copper layer and 329 °C for FR4-II Cu with double copper layers. The presence of the additional copper layer in FR4-II Cu significantly improved thermal stability, with total mass loss reduced from 29.8% (FR4-I Cu) to 23.5% (FR4-II Cu) at a heating rate of 20 °C/min. The loss of flame-retardant components at elevated temperatures raises concerns for the fire safety of PCBs in electronic devices. These findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate FR4 configurations for applications exposed to high temperatures, enhancing reliability and safety in the electronics industry.
On the cup-length of the oriented Grassmann manifolds $$\widetilde G_{n,4}$$
Authors: Rusin T.
Published: January 2025

For the Grassmann manifold

$$\widetilde G_{n,4}$$

G
~

n
,
4

of oriented 4-planes in

$$\mathbb{R}^{n}$$

R

n

no
full description of its cohomology ring with coefficients in the two element field

$$\mathbb {Z}_{2}$$

Z
2

is available. It is known however that it contains a subring that can be identified
with a quotient of a polynomial ring by a certain ideal. Examining this quotient
ring by means of Gröbner bases we are able to determine the

$$\mathbb {Z}_{2}$$

Z
2

-cup-length
of

$$\widetilde G_{n,4}$$

G
~

n
,
4

for

$$n=2^t,2^t-1,2^t-2$$

n
=

2
t

,

2
t

-
1
,

2
t

-
2

for all

$$t \geq 4$$

t
≥
4

.
Repurposing neuroleptics: clozapine as a novel, adjuvant therapy for melanoma brain metastases
Authors: Wikerholmen Tobias , Taule Erlend Moen , Rigg Emma , Berle Birgitte Feginn , Sættem Magnus , Sarnow Katharina , Saed Halala Sdik , Sundstrøm Terje , Thorsen Frits
Published: January 2025

The blood-brain barrier and the distinct brain immunology provide challenges in translating commonly used chemotherapeutics to treat intracranial tumors. Previous reports suggest anti-tumoral effects of antipsychotics, encouraging investigations into potential treatment effects of neuroleptics on brain metastases. For the first time, the therapeutic potential of the antipsychotic drug clozapine in treating melanoma brain metastases (MBM) was investigated using three human MBM cell lines. Through in vitro cell culture and viability experiments, clozapine displayed potent anti-tumoral effects on MBM cells with an exploitable therapeutic window when compared to normal human astrocytes or rat brain organoids. Further, it was shown that clozapine inhibited migration, proliferation, and colony formation in a dose-dependent manner. Through flow cytometry and proteome screening, we found that clozapine induced apoptosis in MBM cells and potentially altered the tumor immunological environment by upregulating proteins such as macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha (MIP-1α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8). In conclusion, clozapine shows significant and selective anti-tumoral effects on MBM cell lines in vitro. Further in vivo experiments are warranted to translate these results into clinical use.

Graphical abstract
Effects of land consolidation on moisture and surface temperature regime of agricultural soil blocks using remote sensing data in the Czech Republic
Authors: Yilgan Furkan , Kaya Şinasi , Miháliková Markéta , Matula Svatopluk , Vopravil Jan , Kara Recep Serdar
Published: January 2025

The Czech Republic has experienced collectivization, transforming individual land ownership into state ownership through agricultural land consolidation after World War II. Land consolidation has led to the expansion of agricultural soil blocks as well as the disappearance of vital landscape features such as shrubs, hedges, lone trees, and wetlands, all of which serve a variety of ecological functions. The disappearance of the landscape elements causes some important problems, such as soil degradation and erosion. The Czech Ministry of Agriculture has enforced a regulation that was developed by the European Union to improve agriculture by enforcing cross-compliance requirements, which encompass the observance of Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAEC) standards. The regulation disincentivizes single-crop cultivation on areas larger than 30 hectares since 2020 to reduce the negative effects of land consolidations on agriculture and soil quality. In this context, the study examines the relationship between land surface temperature (LST) and moisture of agricultural plants and soil blocks in the South Bohemia, Czech Republic, using Landsat-8 remote sensing data from 2018 to 2021. The mono-window algorithm (MWA) was used to obtain LST, and the precision of Landsat LST data was evaluated using MODIS daily LST data. The NRMSE ≤ 0.15 and RMSE ≤ 3.5 C were found with a strong positive relationship r ≥ 0.65 between datasets. Additionally, the density of vegetation and the moisture index of soil and plants were calculated using spectral remote sensing indices such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), normalized difference moisture index (NDMI), and soil moisture index (SMI). The statistical relationships among those spectral indices with LST were examined. The analyzes showed that the implementation of GAEC 7d improved the relationship between NDVI and NDMI, with the correlation increasing from r = 0.80 in 2019 to 0.92 in 2021. Meanwhile, the inverse relationship between NDMI and LST changed from − 0.71 to -0.67. These changes in correlation suggest that plant water retention in the region increased following the regulation, and the soil structure may have also improved.
The Competent Computational Thinking Test (cCTt): A Valid, Reliable and Gender-Fair Test for Longitudinal CT Studies in Grades 3–6
Authors: El-Hamamsy Laila , Zapata-Cáceres María , Martín-Barroso Estefanía , Mondada Francesco , Zufferey Jessica Dehler , Bruno Barbara , Román-González Marcos
Published: January 2025

The introduction of computing education into curricula worldwide requires multi-year assessments to evaluate the long-term impact on learning. However, no single Computational Thinking (CT) assessment spans primary school, and no group of CT assessments provides a means of transitioning between instruments. This study therefore investigated whether the competent CT test (cCTt) could evaluate learning reliably from grades 3 to 6 (ages 7–11) using data from 2709 students. The psychometric analysis employed Classical Test Theory, Item Response Theory, Measurement Invariance analyses which include Differential Item Functioning, normalised z-scoring, and PISA’s methodology to establish proficiency levels. The findings indicate that the cCTt is valid, reliable and gender-fair for grades 3–6, although more complex items would be beneficial for grades 5–6. Grade-specific proficiency levels are provided to help tailor interventions, with a normalised scoring system to compare students across and between grades, and help establish transitions between instruments. To improve the utility of CT assessments among researchers, educators and practitioners, the findings emphasise the importance of (i) developing and validating gender-fair, grade-specific, instruments aligned with students’ cognitive maturation, and providing (ii) proficiency levels, and (iii) equivalency scales to transition between assessments. To conclude, the study provides insight into the design of longitudinal developmentally appropriate assessments and interventions.
The influence of goal orientation on gratitude at work considering prosocial motivation
Authors: Sanchez Janice , Tsay Chia-Jung , López-Pérez Belén
Published: January 2025

Although research has shown that gratitude has mostly beneficial consequences, less is known about its motivational antecedents. As goal orientations influence goals and behaviors, we considered how they also impact emotions. To that aim, we investigated the relation between work domain goal orientation and the experience of gratitude. Study 1 (N = 102) demonstrated that a learning goal orientation was positively correlated with gratitude but a performance goal orientation was not. Study 2 (N = 87) experimentally demonstrated that participants experienced more gratitude when learning goals rather than performance goals were valued at work. In Study 3 (N = 157), work prosocial motivation cross-sectionally mediated the impact of a learning goal orientation on gratitude. Preregistered Study 4 (N = 257) replicated Study 2 and 3’s findings through an experiment and categorical mediation. Our results suggest that goal orientation influences gratitude, and that prosocial motivation can serve an explanatory function for its relationship with gratitude at work.
Polish Employees’ Religiosity and Finding Meaning in Work: The Role of Gratitude Toward the Organization
Authors: Wnuk Marcin
Published: January 2025

Religion can serve as a framework for finding meaning in life. There is a lack of research regarding the mechanism underlying the relationship between religiosity and finding meaning in work. This study aimed to verify whether religious practices of Polish Roman Catholic employees were indirectly, through organizational gratefulness, related to finding meaning in work and whether the perception of a relationship with God moderated the links between religious practices and organizational gratefulness and between religious practices and meaning in work. Among employees perceiving a close connection with God, the positive function of religious practices in finding meaning in work and organizational gratefulness was confirmed.
Marginal and average considerations in LCA and their role for defining emission factors and characterization factors
Authors: Heijungs Reinout
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In the literature on LCA, one often finds the terms “marginal” and “average,” often in combination with words like “data,” “process,” “emission,” or “characterisation factor.” However, the meaning of these terms appears to differ between sources. This paper aims to clarify the situation.

Critical analysis

We review the various definitions and interpretations of the terms “marginal” and “average” in economics, LCI and LCIA. We also study the role of various related terms, such as “linear” and “incremental.” It turns out that the term “marginal” is used for characterizing processes in some sources and for characterizing the data that describes processes in other sources. These two interpretations are shown to differ substantially in a hypothetical example. We also note that the situation in the LCIA literature differs markedly from that in the LCI literature.

Conclusion and discussion

We propose to distinguish three concepts, marginal, average, and average marginal, and offer verbal definitions, mathematical equations, and a numerical example with a graphical interpretation. We also draw an agenda to research the implications for the attributional-consequential debate, the development of databases and software, and several other topics. This may also help to bring more insights in the continuing controversy on consequential versus attributional LCA.
Automated spinopelvic measurements on radiographs with artificial intelligence: a multi-reader study
Authors: Hoppe Boj Friedrich , Rueckel Johannes , Rudolph Jan , Fink Nicola , Weidert Simon , Hohlbein Wolf , Cavalcanti-Kußmaul Adrian , Trappmann Lena , Munawwar Basel , Ricke Jens , Sabel Bastian Oliver
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To develop an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm for automated measurements of spinopelvic parameters on lateral radiographs and compare its performance to multiple experienced radiologists and surgeons.

Methods

On lateral full-spine radiographs of 295 consecutive patients, a two-staged region-based convolutional neural network (R-CNN) was trained to detect anatomical landmarks and calculate thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope (SS), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Performance was evaluated on 65 radiographs not used for training, which were measured independently by 6 readers (3 radiologists, 3 surgeons), and the median per measurement was set as the reference standard. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), mean absolute error (MAE), and standard deviation (SD) were used for statistical analysis; while, ANOVA was used to search for significant differences between the AI and human readers.

Results

Automatic measurements (AI) showed excellent correlation with the reference standard, with all ICCs within the range of the readers (TK: 0.92 [AI] vs. 0.85–0.96 [readers]; LL: 0.95 vs. 0.87–0.98; SS: 0.93 vs. 0.89–0.98; SVA: 1.00 vs. 0.99–1.00; all p < 0.001). Analysis of the MAE (± SD) revealed comparable results to the six readers (TK: 3.71° (± 4.24) [AI] v.s 1.86–5.88° (± 3.48–6.17) [readers]; LL: 4.53° ± 4.68 vs. 2.21–5.34° (± 2.60–7.38); SS: 4.56° (± 6.10) vs. 2.20–4.76° (± 3.15–7.37); SVA: 2.44 mm (± 3.93) vs. 1.22–2.79 mm (± 2.42–7.11)); while, ANOVA confirmed no significant difference between the errors of the AI and any human reader (all p > 0.05). Human reading time was on average 139 s per case (range: 86–231 s).

Conclusion

Our AI algorithm provides spinopelvic measurements accurate within the variability of experienced readers, but with the potential to save time and increase reproducibility.
Pros and cons of surgical versus conservative management for head and neck paraganglioma: a real-world data analysis
Authors: Canu L. , Zanatta L. , Sparano C. , Santoro R. , Mannelli G. , Zamengo S. , Jance B. , Amore F. , Ercolino T. , Mannelli M. , Maggi M. , Rapizzi E.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To compare functional deficits associated to surgery with those caused by the growth of the head and neck paragangliomas (HNPGLs).

Methods

72 patients with HNPGLs were included. Patients were divided in group A (49 patients undergoing surgery) and group B (23 patients following a wait and see approach). Each patient was subjected to clinical evaluation and genetic testing. The presence of functional neurological deficits in speech or swallowing and quality of life were assessed via a dedicated otolaryngologist visit, three posted questionnaires (VHI, DHI, and MDADI), and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-H&N35.

Results

Thirty-four patients from group A (69.4%) and 18 from group B (78.2%) agreed to fill out the posted questionnaires. Eighteen patients from group A (36.7%) and 10 from group B (43.5%) underwent a dedicated otolaryngologist visit. A significant difference between group A and B was observed in the VHI (p = 0.001) and DHI scoring (p = 0.020), and at the otolaryngologist visit (mild neurological disabilities, p = 0.007). Patients with familial forms presented multiple HNPGLs (p = 0.011), multiple secreting lesions (p = 0.010) and underwent surgery more times for HNPGLs (p = 0.009) and for both HNPGLs and sympathetic PGLs (p = 0.015). ROC curve analysis suggests that surgery in carotid body tumors >34 mm may be more frequently associated with nerve injury.

Conclusion

The management of HNPGL patients remains challenging for clinicians. This preliminary study seems to suggest that surgery still represents the first choice for patients with small lesions. An accurate clinical evaluation is mandatory to avoid non-resolving surgery and possible neurovascular long-term complications.
Can artificial intelligence understand our emotions? Deep learning applications with face recognition
Authors: Telceken Muhammed , Akgun Devrim , Kacar Sezgin , YESİN Kübra , Yıldız Metin
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the ability to detect emotions from human facial expressions via facial recognition technologies and analyze the effectiveness of deep learning models in this process.

Method

This research was conducted between 01.04 and 01.07.2024. The data of the study were taken from the open access site https://www.kaggle.com/datasets/msambare/fer2013 (Kaggle, 2024). Python 3.8 is used in this study. The FER-2013 (Facial Expression Recognition 2013) dataset is a comprehensive collection of facial images labeled with various emotions. The dataset contains 35,887 grayscale facial images. Each image has a size of 48 × 48 pixels. The dataset consists of images belonging to 7 emotion categories: anger, disgust, fear, happy, sad, confused, and neutral.

Results

In our experiments on the FER2013 dataset, we evaluated the performance of three different models: MobileNetV3-L, EfficientNetV2-L, and our proposed EfficientMobileNet. The evaluation criteria were based on sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and F1 scores to assess the effectiveness of each model comprehensively. The EfficientMobileNet model outperformed MobileNetV3-L and EfficientNetV2-L in all measured performance metrics. EfficientMobileNet was the most successful model for predicting emotions, with an accuracy of 77.6%.

Conclusion

The impressive results obtained by EfficientMobileNet on the Fer2013 dataset show potential for wider application, especially in image classification tasks involving low-quality or small-scale images. This performance supports the idea of the potential for further improvements in neural network architecture and model efficiency and accuracy. Future work should focus on optimizing the model for more challenging datasets, studying the impact of different architectural adjustments, and investigating the scalability of EfficientMobileNet across various domains and applications.
Design of the New Classic and Quantum Chaotic Maps and Implementation on FPGA
Authors: Ors Yalcin Berna , Hematpour Nafiseh , Faruk Birgul Omer
Published: January 2025

We review and simplify several classical and quantum maps introduced in recent years that have been used in cryptography. For each of these maps, a bitstream is generated and subjected to the NIST test. Leveraging the advantages of FPGA in the loop, these maps are designed in MATLAB Simulink, converted to HDL using HDL Coder, and implemented on FPGA. Vivado software is used for more precise synthesis of the implementation of these maps. The results of a detailed analysis of classical and new quantum maps are compared with each other, as well as with other implementations of chaotic maps in the literature. Implementations related to five classical maps and two quantum maps, with maximum frequencies 125 MHz, and maximum throughputs of 4 Gbps, are confirmed. The suitability of these maps for implementation, leveraging their greater dynamic complexity and larger key space, is evident.
Students’ approaches when capturing change in contextual graphs: a study combining eye tracking and stimulated recall interviews
Authors: Thomaneck Aylin , Vollstedt Maike , Schindler Maike
Published: January 2025

One central element in understanding the concept of function and developing functional thinking is the aspect of covariation. Covariation describes how the change in one quantity affects the other one. A lack of students’ understanding of covariation leads to errors and misconceptions. This is particularly evident in students’ interpretations of graphs, where covariation is needed to understand the data. Up to now, it is not sufficiently known how students capture covariation in contextual graphs representing data from real-world phenomena. Our study aims to identify secondary school students’ approaches when capturing change in contextual graphs and students’ use of approaches. In our study, 19 ninth graders were asked to describe the change of two graphs from different situational contexts. To get detailed insights into their process of capturing the change, we triangulated eye-tracking data with verbal protocols and stimulated recall interviews. We identified nine approaches that students used to capture change in contextual graphs, which can be grouped into four main types (pairs of values, section by section, holistically, and total change). Moreover, based on students’ use of approaches in the two tasks, we identified task characteristics that seem to be related to the approach used, such as the situational context and the type of graph. The findings thus mark a first step towards improving the teaching and learning of task-specific graph interpretation.
Further research of multi-scale assemble and matrix reassemble method for efficient analysis of railway track–substructure system subjected to a moving train
Authors: Xu Lei , Wu Leizhen , Li Zheng , Peng Borong , Lu Tao , Yu Zhiwu
Published: January 2025

For a large-scale dynamic system, the efficiency of computation becomes a vital work sometimes in engineering practices. As a layered structural system, ballastless track and substructure occupy most part of the degrees of freedom of the whole system. It is, therefore, rather important to optimize the structural models in dynamic equation formulations. In this work, a three-dimensional and coupled model for multi-rigid-body of train and finite elements of track and substructures is presented by multi-scale assemble and matrix reassemble method. The matrix reassembling tactic is based on the multi-scale assemble method, through which the finite element matrix bandwidth is greatly narrowed, and the Cholesky factorization, iterative and multi-time-step solution have been introduced to efficiently obtain the train, track and substructure responses. The subgrade and its subsoil works as a typical substructural system, and comparisons with the previous model without matrix reassembling, SIMPACK and ABAQUS have been conducted to fully validate the efficiency and accuracy of this train–track–subgrade dynamic interaction model.
XTNSR: Xception-based transformer network for single image super resolution
Authors: Talreja Jagrati , Aramvith Supavadee , Onoye Takao
Published: January 2025

Single image super resolution has significantly advanced by utilizing transformers-based deep learning algorithms. However, challenges still need to be addressed in handling grid-like image patches with higher computational demands and addressing issues like over-smoothing in visual patches. This paper presents a Deep Learning model for single-image super-resolution. In this paper, we present the XTNSR model, a novel multi-path network architecture that combines Local feature window transformers (LWFT) with Xception blocks for single-image super-resolution. The model processes grid-like image patches effectively and reduces computational complexity by integrating a Patch Embedding layer. Whereas the Xception blocks use depth-wise separable convolutions for hierarchical feature extraction, the LWFT blocks capture long-range dependencies and fine-grained qualities. A multi-layer feature fusion block with skip connections, part of this hybrid architecture, guarantees efficient local and global feature fusion. The experimental results show better performance in Peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), structural similarity index measure (SSIM), and visual quality than the state-of-the-art techniques. By optimizing parameters, the suggested architecture also lowers computational complexity. Overall, the architecture presents a promising approach for advancing image super-resolution capabilities.
A systematic approach to evaluate jetability of high-viscosity resins for 3D inkjet printing applications
Authors: Götz Antonia , Janhsen Jan Christoph , Güttler Stefan , Refle Oliver , Ronczka Olivia
Published: January 2025

Recent advances in piezo inkjet printing technology have enabled the use of high-viscosity materials previously unsuitable for inkjet applications. This technology facilitates the printing of vat photopolymerization resins, traditionally used to produce single-material components with superior properties compared to those achieved with conventional UV inks in material jetting. The ability to print these resins with piezo inkjet technology opens new fields of application for producing multimaterial functional parts. To fully exploit this potential, it is essential to evaluate the compatibility of these resins with the new technology. This study systematically evaluates the jetability, printability, and performance of high-viscosity materials to optimize the printing process and provides a detailed understanding of the factors influencing the jetability of high-viscosity resins and develops guidelines for optimizing their use in 3D inkjet printing applications.
A data-informed knowledge discovery framework to predict fatigue properties of additively manufactured Ti–6Al–4V, IN718 and AlSi10Mg alloys using fatigue databases
Authors: Alfred Samuel Onimpa , Amiri Mehdi
Published: January 2025

With the increasing interest in utilizing additive manufacturing (AM) for fatigue-critical applications, reliable fatigue analysis tools are increasingly necessary. Unlike traditional manufacturing processes, AM involves a greater number of process parameters and manufacturing variables which adds complexity to the development of mechanistic fatigue models. Data-driven models, to some extent, have shown predictive capabilities for the fatigue properties of AM alloys. However, no study has extensively investigated fatigue properties across different AM alloys with the aim of developing predictive models for fatigue databases. A data-informed knowledge discovery framework is developed for exploring diverse AM fatigue datasets in the literature. Characteristics of the AM fatigue datasets are first analyzed within this framework to uncover data-driven insights for machine learning modeling. Machine learning techniques are then used to solve classification and regression problems using fatigue ratio as the property of interest. k-nearest neighbors and support vector machine classifiers are used to classify process parameters and manufacturing variables to determine the class of fatigue ratio they belong to based on a pre-defined threshold. Similarly, a Gaussian process regression (GPR) model is used to predict the fatigue ratio of AM alloys with a 95% prediction interval. The Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method is used to explain the predictions of the GPR model. This framework is validated using Ti–6Al–4V, IN718, and AlSi10Mg datasets from the literature. The proposed framework efficiently maps process parameters, post-processing sequences, and AM types to the fatigue ratio, thereby providing an efficient surrogate modeling methodology for estimating fatigue properties from available datasets.
Tackling abiotic stress in plants: recent insights and trends
Authors: Zhang Heng , Lang Zhaobo , Zhu Jian-Kang , Wang Pengcheng
Published: January 2025

Plants, as sessile organisms, must adapt to a range of abiotic stresses, including drought, salinity, heat, and cold, which are increasingly exacerbated by climate change. These stresses significantly impact crop productivity, posing challenges for sustainable agriculture and food security. Recent advances in omics studies and genetics have shed light on molecular mechanisms underlying plant stress responses, including the role of calcium (Ca2⁺) signaling, liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), and cell wall-associated sensors in detecting and responding to environmental changes. However, gaps remain in understanding how rapid stress signaling is integrated with slower, adaptive processes. Emerging evidence also highlights crosstalk between abiotic stress responses, plant immunity, and growth regulation, mediated by key components such as RAF-SnRK2 kinase cascades, DELLA proteins, etc. Strategies to enhance crop stress resistance without compromising yield include introducing beneficial alleles, spatiotemporal optimization of stress responses, and decoupling stress signaling from growth inhibition. This review emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and innovative technologies to bridge fundamental research and practical agricultural applications, aiming to develop resilient crops for sustainable food production in an era of escalating environmental challenges.
Synthesis of polyvinyl chloride modified magnetic hydrochar for effective removal of Pb(II) and bisphenol A from aqueous phase: performance and mechanism exploration
Authors: Bi Fuxuan , Zhang Bo , Liu Xiaoyang , Ma Mingyao , Hu Qi , Wang Mengning , Wang Lei , Qu Jianhua , Zhang Ying
Published: January 2025

To effectively remove lead (Pb(II)) and bisphenol A (BPA) from wastewater, polyvinyl chloride modified magnetic hydrochar (PVC-AMHC) was synthesized through co-hydrothermal carbonization of polyvinyl chloride and corn straw, and subsequently activated using NaOH. Characterization demonstrated that both PVC and NaOH activation increased the content of oxygen-containing functional groups, and Fe3O4 was successfully loaded onto the material surface. Furthermore, PVC-AMHC displayed remarkable uptake capacity with the maximum uptake amount of Pb(II) (217.53 mg/g) and BPA (185.53 mg/g) at 130 and 30 min, respectively, under a wide pH range. Additionally, PVC-AMHC possessed high tolerance to different interference cations and maintained excellent adsorption performance during four regeneration cycles. The thermodynamic analysis suggested that the absorption processes of Pb(II) and BPA by PVC-MHC were spontaneous (-ΔG
0) with an endothermic characteristic (+ΔH
0). Adsorption mechanisms of Pb(II) on PVC-AMHC included complexation, electrostatic attraction, and pore filling, and those of BPA were mainly associated with hydrogen bonding and pore filling. In conclusion, PVC-AMHC was an environmentally friendly adsorbent with effectively simultaneous removal of Pb(II) and BPA from wastewater.

Graphical Abstract
Advanced technologies in InGaN micro-LED fabrication to mitigate the sidewall effect
Authors: Liu Zhiyuan , Cao Haicheng , Tang Xiao , Liu Tingang , Lu Yi , Jiang Zixian , Xiao Na , Li Xiaohang
Published: January 2025

The size of InGaN micro-LEDs is continuously decreasing to meet the demands of various emerging applications, especially in tiny micro-displays such as AR/VR. However, the conventional pixel definition based on plasma etching significantly damages the mesa sidewalls, leading to a severe reduction in efficiency as the micro-LED size decreases. This seriously impedes the development and application of micro-LEDs. In this work, we comprehensively explain the origin of micro-LED sidewall effects and corresponding physical models. Subsequently, we systematically review recent progress in micro-LED fabrication aiming at suppressing sidewall effects. Furthermore, we discuss advancements in micro-LED fabrication with “damage-free” techniques, which hold the potential to fundamentally address the issue of plasma damage in the micro-LED process. We believe this review will deepen the understanding of micro-LED sidewall effects and provide a better insight into the latest associated fabrication technologies for high-efficient InGaN micro-LEDs.
S100A8/A9 innate immune signaling as a distinct mechanism driving progression of smoking-related breast cancers
Authors: Mugisha Samson , Baba Shahnawaz A. , Labhsetwar Shreyas , Dave Devam , Zakeri Aran , Klemke Richard , Desgrosellier Jay S.
Published: January 2025

Smoking plays an underappreciated role in breast cancer progression, increasing recurrence and mortality in patients. Here, we show that S100A8/A9 innate immune signaling is a molecular mechanism that identifies smoking-related breast cancers and underlies their enhanced malignancy. In contrast to acute exposure, chronic nicotine increased tumorigenicity and reprogrammed breast cancer cells to express innate immune response genes. This required the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, which elicited dynamic changes in cell differentiation, proliferation, and expression of secreted cytokines, such as S100A8 and S100A9, as assessed by unbiased scRNA-seq. Indeed, pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of S100A8/A9-RAGE receptor signaling blocked nicotine’s tumor-promoting effects. We also discovered Syntaphilin (SNPH) as an S100A8/A9-dependent gene enriched specifically in estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) cancers from former smokers, linking this response to patient disease. Together, our findings describe a new α7 nAChR-S100A8/A9-Syntaphilin immune signaling module that drives nicotine-induced tumor progression and distinguishes smoking-related patient disease as a distinct subset of aggressive breast cancers.
Influence of two different printing methods on the accuracy of full-guided implant insertion – a laboratory study in undergraduate dental students
Authors: Schulz Matthias C. , Krimmel Michael , Weismann Christina , Kaucher-Fernandez Pablo , Lethaus Bernd , Mann Nils Kristian
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to compare the accuracy of fully guided implant insertion in vitro achieved by two fabrication methods in a cohort of undergraduates. We hypothesized that both methods achieve a comparable accuracy.

Methods

Surface scans and cone beam computed tomography images of 48 mandibular models were matched. For each model, two surgical guides enabling a fully guided implant insertion in the region of the first molar on the left or the right side were virtually designed. Fabrication by either Digital Light Processing (DLP) or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) followed. Subsequently, 96 implants using the guides were inserted into the models by 48 undergraduate students. The accuracy of the implant insertion was assessed radiographically, followed by statistical analysis. Additionally, all participants completed a questionnaire.

Results

The implants inserted using guides made by DLP showed a higher accuracy compared to guides made by FFF. The mean three-dimensional deviation was 1.94 ± 1.05 vs. 3.35 ± 2.03 degrees (p < 0.001). The evaluation of the questionnaires revealed mainly theoretical knowledge and a pronounced interest in implant dentistry.

Discussion

The main hypothesis has to be rejected as there were statistically significant differences in accuracy. However, it is possible to teach students the principles of guided implant dentistry and the digital workflow. Furthermore, the initial and running costs for the FFF workflow are substantially lower enabling a higher practicability for undergraduate education.

Conclusion

Despite the lower accuracy of the templates made from FFF the method seems to be suitable for laboratory hands-on courses for undergraduates.
Isovitexin targets SIRT3 to prevent steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head by modulating mitophagy-mediated ferroptosis
Authors: Fan Yinuo , Chen Zhiwen , Wang Haixing , Jiang Mengyu , Lu Hongduo , Wei Yangwenxiang , Hu Yunhao , Mo Liang , Liu Yuhao , Zhou Chi , He Wei , Chen Zhenqiu
Published: January 2025

The death of osteoblasts induced by glucocorticoid (GC)-mediated oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SIONFH). Improving bone formation driven by osteoblasts has shown promising outcomes in the prognosis of SIONFH. Isovitexin has demonstrated antioxidant properties, but its therapeutic effects on GC-induced oxidative stress and SIONFH remain unexplored. In this study, we analyzed clinical samples obtained from SIONFH patients using proteomic and bioinformatic approaches. We found an imbalance in mitochondrial homeostasis and ferroptosis-induced impairment of osteogenic capacity in SIONFH. Subsequently, we investigated the cause-and-effect relationship between mitochondria and ferroptosis, as well as the regulatory role of mitophagy in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and controlling ferroptosis. We then identified the critical involvement of SIRT3 in modulating mitochondrial homeostasis and ferroptosis. Furthermore, molecular docking and co-immunoprecipitation confirmed the strong interaction between SIRT3 and BNIP3. Strikingly, restoring SIRT3 expression significantly inhibited pathological mitophagy mediated by the BNIP3/NIX pathway. Additionally, we discovered that Isovitexin, by promoting SIRT3 expression, effectively regulated mitophagy, preserved mitochondrial homeostasis in osteoblasts, suppressed ferroptosis, and restored osteogenic capacity, leading to remarkable improvements in SIONFH. These findings reveal the effects and molecular mechanisms of Isovitexin on SIONFH and highlight the potential of targeting SIRT3 as a promising strategy to suppress mitophagy-mediated ferroptosis in osteoblasts and against SIONFH.
Skeletal progenitor LRP1 deficiency causes severe and persistent skeletal defects with Wnt pathway dysregulation
Authors: Alhashmi Mohammad , Gremida Abdulrahman M. E. , Maharana Santosh K. , Antonaci Marco , Kerr Amy , Fu Shijian , Lunn Sharna , Turner David A. , Al-Maslamani Noor A. , Liu Ke , Meschis Maria M. , Sutherland Hazel , Wilson Peter , Clegg Peter , Wheeler Grant N. , van ‘t Hof Robert J. , Bou-Gharios George , Yamamoto Kazuhiro
Published: January 2025

Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) is a multifunctional endocytic receptor whose dysfunction is linked to developmental dysplasia of the hip, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Our work addresses the critical question of how these skeletal pathologies emerge. Here, we show the abundant expression of LRP1 in skeletal progenitor cells at mouse embryonic stage E10.5 and onwards, especially in the perichondrium, the stem cell layer surrounding developing limbs essential for bone formation. Lrp1 deficiency in these stem cells causes joint fusion, malformation of cartilage/bone template and markedly delayed or lack of primary ossification. These abnormalities, which resemble phenotypes associated with Wnt signalling pathways, result in severe and persistent skeletal defects including a severe deficit in hip joint and patella, and markedly deformed and low-density long bones leading to dwarfism and impaired mobility. Mechanistically, we show that LRP1 regulates core non-canonical Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) components that may explain the malformation of long bones. LRP1 directly binds to Wnt5a, facilitates its cell-association and endocytic degradation and recycling. In the developing limbs, LRP1 partially colocalises with Wnt5a and its deficiency alters abundance and distribution of Wnt5a and Vangl2. Finally, using Xenopus as a model system, we show the regulatory role for LRP1 in Wnt/PCP signalling. We propose that in skeletal progenitors, LRP1 plays a critical role in formation and maturity of multiple bones and joints by regulating Wnt signalling, providing novel insights into the fundamental processes of morphogenesis and the emergence of skeletal pathologies.