bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Extended B‐Spline‐Based Material Point Method for Contact Problems
Authors: Kakouris Emmanouil G. , Chatzis Manolis N. , Triantafyllou Savvas
Published: February 2025

A novel Material Point Method (MPM) is introduced for addressing contact problems. In contrast to the standard multi‐velocity field approach, this method employs a penalty method to evaluate contact forces at the discretised boundaries of their respective physical domains. This enhances simulation fidelity by accurately considering the deformability of the contact surface and preventing fictitious gaps between bodies in contact. Additionally, the method utilises the Extended B‐Splines (EBSs) domain approximation, providing two key advantages. First, EBSs robustly mitigate grid cell‐crossing errors by offering continuous gradients of the basis functions on the interface between adjacent grid cells. Second, numerical integration errors are minimised, even with small physical domains in occupied grid cells. The proposed method's robustness and accuracy are evaluated through benchmarks, including comparisons with analytical solutions, other state‐of‐the‐art MPM‐based contact algorithms, and experimental observations from the literature. Notably, the method demonstrates effective mitigation of stress errors inherent in contact simulations.
An Adjoint‐Based Methodology for Sensitivity Analysis of Time‐Periodic Flows With Reduced Time Integration
Authors: Privato Tomás Sambiase , de Sá Brasil Lima João , Dolci Daiane Iglesia , Carmo Bruno Souza , Hayashi Marcelo Tanaka , Volpe Ernani Vitillo
Published: February 2025

Sensitivity analysis plays a vital role in understanding the impact of control parameter variations on system output, particularly in cases where an objective functional evaluates the output's merit. The adjoint method has gained popularity due to its efficient computation, especially when dealing with a large number of control parameters and a few functionals. While the discrete form of the adjoint method is prevalent, exploring its continuous counterpart can offer valuable insights into the underlying mathematical problem, particularly in characterizing the boundary conditions. This paper presents an investigation into the continuous form of the adjoint method applied to time‐dependent viscous flows, where the time dependence is either imposed by boundary conditions or arises from the system dynamics itself. The proposed approach enables the computation of sensitivities with respect to both geometric and operational control parameters using the same adjoint solution. For time‐periodic flows, a special formulation is developed to mitigate the computational costs associated with time integration. Results demonstrate that the methodology proposed in a previous work can be successfully extended to time‐dependent flows with fixed time spans. In such applications, time‐accurate simulations of physics and adjoint fields are sufficient. However, periodic flows necessitate the application of the Leibniz Rule because the period might depend on the control parameters, which introduces additional terms to the adjoint‐based sensitivity gradient. In that case, time integration can be limited to a minimum common multiple of all appearing periods in the flow. Although the accurate estimation of such multiple poses a challenge, the approach promises significant benefits for sensitivity analysis of fully established periodic flows. It leads to substantial cuts in computational costs and avoids transient data contamination.
A Penalty‐Free SGFEM for Interface Problems With Nonhomogeneous Jump Conditions
Authors: Zhang Qinghui , Banerjee Uday
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we present a stable generalized finite element method (SGFEM) to address the approximation of the discontinuous solutions of interface problems with nonhomogeneous interface conditions. We propose a set of enrichment functions based on the Heaviside and Distance functions on the patches that intersect the interface. The enrichment based on the Heaviside function is used to strongly enforce the given nonhomogeneous interface condition, that is, the jump in the solution, and only the enrichment based on the product of the Heaviside and Distance functions contributes to the degrees of freedom. Consequently, the number of degrees of freedom in this approach is the same as that is required for an interface problem with homogeneous interface conditions. The chief merit is that the proposed method totally confors and does not use conventional techniques for the nonhomogeneous interface condition in the literature, such as the penalty method or the Lagrange multiplier. Our experiments show that this method yields optimal order of convergence, its conditioning is not worse than that of the standard finite element method, and it is robust.
Preparation of Amylose‐Mimicking Polymers for the Purification of Maltose‐Binding Protein
Authors: Miyagawa Atsushi , Yamamoto Nami , Yamamura Hatsuo
Published: February 2025

Maltose‐binding protein (MBP) is used as affinity tags for purifying recombinant proteins via amylose affinity gels. However, the gel often yields a low quantity of the purified protein due to the biodegradability and low water solubility of immobilized amylose. Herein, water‐soluble, anti‐biodegradation amylose‐mimicking polymers are synthesized by polymerizing a maltose monomer with a norbornene group, then copolymerizing it with a glucose monomer and norbornene. The synthesized polymers are further modified via hydrogenation and hydroxylation to alter their properties. The binding affinities of these polymers, which are evaluated using a quartz crystal microbalance instrument, indicated their binding to MBP mimics that of amylose. Furthermore, the polymer is immobilized on an agarose gel to prepare an affinity gel for MBP, which absorbs concanavalin A and MBP before eluting them. However, only 15% of MBP is absorbed, with the majority passing through the gel. This indicates that maltose is short enough to efficiently absorb MBP. However, amylose‐mimicking polymers have higher water solubilities and are easier to handle than amylose polymers, making them expected to exhibit a higher MBP absorbability. Hence, optimizing ligand length and structure is key to improving MBP binding. Further, designs should focus on enhancing stability and binding efficiency to improve affinity purification.
Unraveling Surface Chemistry of SnO2 Through Formation of Charged Oxygen Species and Oxygen Vacancies
Authors: Shaban Tameh Maliheh , Gladfelter Wayne L. , Goodpaster Jason D.
Published: February 2025

The ability of SnO2 surfaces to adsorb and activate oxygen species is essential for designing high‐performance gas sensors and catalytic materials. In this study, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are employed to unravel the mechanisms governing oxygen adsorption on SnO2 (110) surfaces under varying surface conditions, including reduced, defective, and stoichiometric configurations. Our findings indicate various forms of charged oxygen species on the surface. The study reveals the presence of , , and on the reduced surface and , , and on the defective and the oxidized surfaces. These charged species are directly linked to the reactivity and sensitivity of SnO2‐based materials, as they interact with oxygen vacancies to stabilize adsorption configurations and influence electronic states within the band gap. PDOS analyses highlight the electronic interactions between adsorbed oxygen species and surface tin atoms, revealing the formation of hybridized orbitals that contribute to defect states near the Fermi level. These states play an important role in determining the surface reactivity and electronic properties of the material. The interplay between oxygen adsorption and vacancy‐induced charge redistribution provides critical insights into the mechanisms driving surface reactivity and performance. By providing a detailed understanding of the electronic and energetic properties of adsorbed oxygen species, this work establishes a theoretical framework for the design and optimization of metal oxide‐based materials. The findings are particularly valuable for tailoring the properties of SnO2, In2O3, and ZnO for applications in gas sensing, catalysis, and related technologies.
The Role of Hybrid Learning in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Martins Flavio , Cezarino Luciana Oranges , Challco Geiser Chalco , Liboni Lara , Dermeval Diego , Bittencourt Ibsen , Paiva Ranilson , da Silva Alan , Marques Leonardo , Isotani Seiji , Bittencourt Ig Ibert
Published: February 2025

Hybrid learning combines digital learning resources with conventional education approaches to expand educational offerings. While this approach has shown promise in addressing limitations of both online and in‐person instruction, significant challenges remain in ensuring equitable access and sustainable implementation. This study examined hybrid learning's relationship with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) framework through a scoping review analyzing evidence from academic literature (n = 80) and reports from 36 global educational organizations. Our analysis identified 90 potential synergies (54%) and 45 challenges (26%) across social, economic, and environmental dimensions. The findings were analyzed under three main areas: (1) equity promotion through reduced geographical and socioeconomic barriers, (2) crisis response support during disruptions like pandemics and natural disasters, and (3) capacity building opportunities in workforce development. Based on these findings, we propose the SDG‐Hybrid Learning Alignment Framework, including a new SDG Target 4.8 (Digital‐Resilient Education) to guide hybrid learning initiatives. This framework emphasizes infrastructure standards, teaching competencies, equitable resource access, and institutional crisis continuity. Results suggest successful implementation requires integrating digital infrastructure with pedagogical approaches while considering local contexts and institutional capabilities.
Dihydropyrimidines Emerge as Promising Dual‐Acting Inhibitors Targeting Acetylcholinesterase and Monoamine Oxidases for Alzheimer's and Other Neurological Disorders
Authors: Saleem Khan Maria , Islam Talha , Farooq Muhammad Umer , al‐Arifa Najiya , Jalil Saquib , Ali Khan Imtiaz , Hameed Abdul , Asari Asnuzilawati , Rehman Atta ur , Iqbal Jamshed , al‐Rashida Mariya
Published: February 2025

The pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is multifaceted, and more than one factor is deemed responsible for its genesis and progression. Hence, the multi‐target approach seems plausible en route to the development of therapeutics targeting Alzheimer's in particular, and other neurological disorders, in general. Among the major factors responsible for AD are acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase enzymes. Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter that plays a role in processing memory and learning. Deficiency of this neurotransmitter is observed in patients of AD; this is largely attributed to increased expression of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) that is responsible for breakdown of acetylcholine neurotransmitter. Hence, inhibitors of AChE can prevent excessive breakdown of this important neurotransmitter. Monoamine oxidases in the brain are responsible for hydrolyzing important neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine (among others), abnormally rapid hydrolysis of these neurotransmitters via over‐activation of monoamine oxidases is associated with several neurodegenerative disorders including anxiety and Parkinson's disease. Herein, we synthesized a focused library of 1,4‐dihydropyrimidines (40 compounds) using a deep eutectic solvent and evaluated their potential to inhibit cholinesterase (AChE and BChE) and monoamine oxidase (MAO A and MAO B) enzymes. Several selective and highly potent inhibitors were identified; in silico molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies helped to rationalize the binding site interactions and establish useful structure activity relationship. In silico ADME prediction data identified a few inhibitors that could cross the blood‐brain barrier, one such compound was selected for the in vivo estimation of LD50 value and toxicity studies using mice, skin allergy test was also carried out. All in vivo tests and LD50 data established the safety profile of the compound. The results are encouraging enough to further pursue the development of DHPMs as promising multi‐target directed ligands against neurodegenerative disorders.
Metal/Peroxide‐Free [5 + 1] Cyclization of 2‐Vinylanilines with tert‐Butyl Nitrite to Access Diverse Cinnolines
Authors: Liu Huaqing , Yan Qinqin , Liu Zexuan , Zeng Yanzhao , Li Lijun , Li Zejiang
Published: February 2025

An efficient metal/peroxide‐free [5 + 1] cyclization of 2‐vinylanilines with TBN was realized to access various cinnolines with high yields. In addition, benzo[e]pyrrolo[2,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines could also be obtained by using 2‐(1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl)anilines as the raw materials. This cascade system selected common/low‐cost tert‐butyl nitrite as the N1 source, which performed broad substrate scopes/simple operation/mild conditions/available scaled up to 1 mmol.
Mask‐Free Direct Printing of Highly Customizable, Conformable, Robust, and Recyclable Microelectrodes for Advanced Curvy Electronics
Authors: Kong Xiangyi , Liu Youyou , Wang Jianping , Yue Liancong , Gong Min , Lin Xiang , Gao Fengxian , Zhang Liang , Wang Dongrui
Published: February 2025

Highly conformal and mechanically robust curvy electronics that seamlessly adapt to sophisticated and unpredictable 3D geometries provide breakthrough solutions in advanced fields such as health monitoring, wireless energy transmission, and human‐computer interface. Nevertheless, existing material choices along with manufacturing techniques substantially impede these electronics from achieving their full potential. This study presents a mask‐free and straightforward direct writing and transfer (DW&T) technique that employs a polytetrafluoroethylene film as a temporary substrate, utilizing the phase transition of printed electrodes between hydrogel and dry states to enable cost‐effective fabrication of conformally adhering conductive microelectrode patterns on nearly all 3D surfaces. The resultant microelectrodes demonstrate extensively adjustable feature dimensions (linewidth 50–400 µm; height 0.07–2.3 µm; pitch 20 µm in minimum) and possess distinct electrical and optical characteristics, in addition to exhibiting significant stability under severe bending and stretching strains and recyclability. To demonstrate the capabilities of the DW&T, imperceptible and customizable substrate‐free electronic skin (e‐skin) on human skin is developed. The e‐skin maintains ultraconformal and seamless contact with the skin, does not impede the natural sensations and physiological changes of its hosts, and achieves high‐fidelity recording of diverse electrophysiological signals.
Formation of CdTeS Prenucleation Clusters at Elevated Temperatures and Transformation to Magic‐Size Clusters at Room Temperature
Authors: Yu Jiali , Wang Zhe , Wang Shasha , Zhang Chunchun , Luan Chaoran , Sapelkin Andrei , Chen Xiaoqin , Yu Kui
Published: February 2025

The synthesis of colloidal semiconductor magic‐size clusters (MSCs) of ternary II‐VI metal chalcogenide (ME1E2) remains challenging. Using CdTeS as a model system, it is shown that CdTeS MSC‐381 (displaying sharp optical absorption peaking at 381 nm) develops at room temperature from prenucleation‐stage samples of reactions of Cd(OAc)2/OLA (cadmium acetate in oleylamine), TeTOP (tri‐n‐octylphosphine telluride), and S (sulfur). It is proposed that the three precursors experience physical co‐self‐assembly followed by the formation of Te−Cd−S covalent bonds inside each assembly. Chemical self‐assembly results in the occurrence of prenucleation clusters (PNCs), which are the precursor compound (PC‐381) of MSC‐381. High feed concentrations and Cd‐to‐E molar ratios promote the co‐self‐assembly, which is participated more by the precursor molecule of Te than by that of S. With compelling evidence for the formation of ternary PNCs at elevated temperatures and for the PC‐to‐MSC transformation at room temperature, these findings suggest that chemical self‐assembly occurs generally in reactions.
Survey of attitudes toward clinical research among Japanese traditional (Kampo) medicine specialists and certified doctors affiliated with the Japan Society for Oriental Medicine
Authors: Nogami Tatsuya , Uneda Kazushi , Yoshino Tetsuhiro , Ito Hidenori , Imoto Seiya , Tahara Eiichi , Sunagawa Masataka , Takayama Shin , Yakubo Shuji , Mitani Kazuo
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aims to assess the motivation, capability, and working environment of Japanese traditional (Kampo) medicine (JTM) specialists and certified physicians affiliated with the Japan Society for Oriental Medicine regarding clinical research. Their awareness and perception of COVID‐19 studies and their interest in clinical research based on traditional JTM diagnostic concepts are explored.

Methods

An online survey was conducted between May 20 and June 30, 2024, using Google Forms, targeting 2146 Japan Society for Oriental Medicine‐certified JTM specialists and physicians. The survey covered their awareness of and participation in COVID‐19 research, barriers to research, and educational needs for clinical researcher training.

Results

In total, 570 participants (26.6%) responded, 44.1% of whom had more than 15 years of certification experience. Approximately 50% were unaware of the COVID‐19 studies, and participation rates were low. The most common barriers to conducting clinical research included lack of time (58.1%), funding (54.8%), and research personnel (51.1%). In terms of educational needs, 74.3% of respondents expressed a need for statistical analysis training, and nearly 90% felt clinical research education should occur within 10 years of obtaining their medical licenses.

Conclusion

This study reveals gaps in awareness and participation in clinical research among JTM specialists. Many respondents expressed willingness to engage in research; however, barriers such as limited time, funding, and personnel remain critical challenges. Furthermore, the need for specialized educational programs was strongly emphasized. Addressing these issues is essential for promoting clinical research in JTM.
Effective treatment of late‐onset urinary incontinence with a slow‐release GnRH analogue implant in an entire male dog with bilateral ectopic ureters
Authors: Hanson Jeanette M. , Ball Elisabeth , Gombert Alexis
Published: February 2025

A 2‐year‐old, mixed breed dog of predominantly labrador retriever genotype and phenotype, entire male presented with a 6‐month history of urinary incontinence. The dog had a continuous urine dripping without straining. The urine bladder was small. No neurological abnormalities were found. Haematology, biochemistry, urinalysis and plain abdominal radiographs, including the urethra, were without remarkable findings. On abdominal ultrasonography, caudally displaced ureters were detected. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography subsequently confirmed bilateral ectopic ureters entering the prostatic urethra. As the dog had remained urinary continent until the onset of sexual maturity, it was hypothesised that the dog would regain continence if it returned to a sexually inactive state. A slow‐release gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analogue (deslorelin) implant was administered subcutaneously in the neck. The incontinence started to decrease after 4 weeks, and the dog was completely continent after 6–7 weeks. Continence was maintained with repeat dosing of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone implants.
A simple experiment to trace stemflow infiltration: Advantages and challenges of using stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen and electrical resistivity tomography
Authors: Zuecco G. , Marchina C. , Censini M. , Todini‐Zicavo D. , Cassiani G. , Borga M.
Published: February 2025

Stemflow is a key process in forested catchments due to its control on soil water content and nutrients’ transport. However, there are still few studies focusing on stemflow infiltration and relying on direct observations that are minimally invasive and repeatable. In this study, we exploited the usefulness of stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen, as well as of time‐lapse electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to investigate water fluxes in the soil. Specifically, we aimed to examine the effectiveness of both isotopes and ERT to trace stemflow infiltration for a beech tree in a steep hillslope in the Italian pre‐Alps, to quantify stemflow infiltration area based on the two methodologies and to provide recommendations for future research. Results showed that both approaches identified an infiltration along the maximum slope gradient with most of the water staying in the upper 45 cm of soil. The analysis of electrical resistivity variations enabled to evaluate the temporal dynamics of stemflow infiltration and to estimate an average stemflow infiltration area of 0.64 m2, which was larger than values found by previous studies based on dye tracers. This high estimate may be due to multiple factors, from the soil conditions to methodological uncertainties. Conversely, the estimation of stemflow infiltration area based on isotopes was affected by the sampling area. Hence, future research based on isotopic tracers needs to consider methods providing a direct field evidence of stemflow infiltration (e.g., dye tracers) or a quick inspection of raw data (e.g., ERT) to inform the sampling design.
Reducing Wind Energy Forecast Error With a Hybrid Ensemble Prediction Method
Authors: Rutherford Justin , Nyhan Marguerite , Gavin Leahy Paul
Published: February 2025

When wind energy is traded in ex‐ante time frames for Day‐Ahead electricity markets, accurate wind forecasts are needed to secure positions up to 36 h after the market gate closes to bidders. Wind energy is traded in discrete quantities; however, it is generated from an intermittent and variable resource. Deterministic forecasts are preferred for energy trading as they are compatible with providing a defined forecast quantity. However, deterministic forecasts cannot capture the stochastic nature of the underlying power source and are therefore suboptimal. Ensemble‐based forecasts have the potential to reduce forecast error by accounting for uncertainties not captured in deterministic models. However, ensemble forecasts are not always available at wind turbine hub heights. Therefore, a method is needed to apply ensemble information at turbine hub heights for energy forecasting purposes. This paper presents a novel machine learning‐based method that translates the perturbations from a localised Numerical Weather Prediction model's 10‐m wind speed output to an ensemble energy forecast at 100 m. The extrapolated ensemble‐based forecast has improved the forecast accuracy by up to 9% when compared to the deterministic output, in addition to providing useful information on the forecast uncertainty. The findings have important implications for future energy trading, transmission system operation and meteorological forecasting.
Energy-enhanced dimension eight SMEFT effects in VBF Higgs production
Authors: Assi Benoît , Martin Adam
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We study Higgs boson production via vector boson fusion at the LHC, focusing on the process pp → H + jj and capturing the leading energy-enhanced contributions within the Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT) up to order 1/Λ4. Employing energy-scaling arguments, we predict the magnitude of each higher-dimensional operator’s contribution. Utilizing the geometric formulation of SMEFT, our analysis incorporates dimension-eight operators not previously considered. We find that the kinematics of vector boson fusion — characterized by two highly forward jets — tend to suppress contributions from higher-dimensional operators, requiring a lower scale Λ for SMEFT effects to become observable. This suggests that the SMEFT remains valid for lower Λ than expected. Combined with the fact that LEP constrains the dimension-six operators with the most considerable impact on vector boson fusion, a regime exists where dimension-eight operators can have significant effects. In many cases, these dimension-eight operators also influence associated production processes like pp → HV(jj), though differences in analysis cuts and kinematics mean this is not always the case. Our findings provide insights that could refine the search for SMEFT signals in collider experiments.
(In)stability of symbiotic vortex-bright soliton in holographic immiscible binary superfluids
Authors: An Yu-Ping , Li Li
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Symbiotic vortex-bright soliton structures with non-trivial topological charge in one component are found to be robust in immiscibel two-component superfluids, due to the effective potential created by a stable vortex in the other component. We explore the properties of symbiotic vortex-bright soliton in strongly coupled binary superfluids by holography, which naturally incorporates finite temperature effect and dissipation. We show the dependence of the configuration on various parameters, including the winding number, temperature and inter-component coupling. We then study the (in)stability of symbiotic vortex-bright soliton by both the linear approach via quasi-normal modes and the full non-linear numerical simulation. Rich dynamics are found for the splitting patterns and dynamical transitions. Moreover, for giant symbiotic vortex-bright soliton structures with large winding numbers, the vortex splitting instability might be rooted in the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability. We also show that the second component in the vortex core could act as a stabilizer so as to suppress or even prevent vortex splitting instability. Such stabilization mechanism opens possibility for vortices with smaller winding number to merge into vortices with larger winding number, which is confirmed for the first time in our simulation.
PROBs and perverse sheaves I: symmetric products
Authors: Kapranov Mikhail , Schechtman Vadim
Published: February 2025

Algebraic structures involving both multiplications and comultiplications (such as, e.g., bialgebras or Hopf algebras) can be encoded using PROPs (categories with PROducts and Permutations) of Adams and MacLane. To encode such structures on objects of a braided monoidal category, we need PROBs (braided analogs of PROPs). Colored PROBs correspond to multi-sorted structures. In particular, we have a colored PROB

$$\mathfrak {B}$$

B

governing

$$\mathbb {Z}_{\ge 0}$$

Z

≥
0

-graded bialgebras in braided categories. As a category,

$$\mathfrak {B}$$

B

splits into blocks

$$\mathfrak {B}_n$$

B
n

according to the grading. We relate

$$\mathfrak {B}_n$$

B
n

with the category

$$\mathfrak {P}_n$$

P
n

of perverse sheaves on the symmetric product

$${\operatorname {Sym}}^n(\mathbb {C})$$

Sym

n

(
C
)

smooth with respect to the natural stratification by multiplicities. More precisely, we show that

$$\mathfrak {P}_n$$

P
n

is equivalent to the category of functors

$$\mathfrak {B}_n\rightarrow \operatorname {Vect}$$

B
n

→
Vect

. This gives a natural quiver description of

$$\mathfrak {P}_n$$

P
n

.
Generalised killing spinors on three-dimensional Lie groups
Authors: Artacho Diego
Published: February 2025

We present a complete classification of invariant generalised Killing spinors on three-dimensional Lie groups. We show that, in this context, the existence of a non-trivial invariant generalised Killing spinor implies that all invariant spinors are generalised Killing with the same endomorphism. Notably, this classification is independent of the choice of left-invariant metric. To illustrate the computational methods underlying this classification, we also provide the first known examples of homogeneous manifolds admitting invariant generalised Killing spinors with n distinct eigenvalues for each

$$n > 4$$

n
>
4

.
Expression of synaptic proteins and development of dendritic spines in fetal and postnatal neocortex of the pig, the European wild boar Sus scrofa
Authors: Sobierajski Eric , Czubay Katrin , Schmidt Marc-André R. , Wiedenski Sebastian , Rettschlag Sarah , Beemelmans Christa , Beemelmans Christoph , Wahle Petra
Published: February 2025

Synapse formation is a critical step in neuronal development. Current knowledge is largely based on altricial rodents where synapse formation and maturation proceed largely postnatally. In precocially born mammals such as guinea pig presynapse and spine formation start well before birth. Here, we analysed the developmental expression of proteins associated with synapse formation and maturation together with the development of basal dendritic spines of pyramidal neurons of visual and somatosensory cortex of the pig, an emerging translational model for human neurodegenerative disorders. A total of 23 selected proteins was quantified with Western blots. Most were detectable from midgestation embryonal day (E) 65 onwards. About half reached the expression level seen at postnatal day (P) 90 pig already two weeks before birth (gestation 114 days) in somatosensory, albeit not yet in visual cortex. For instance, major molecular components of synaptic plasticity such as GluN2B, CamKIIα, α-actinin-2, synaptopodin and T286 phosphorylated CamKIIα were expressed at E100 in somatosensory cortex. Dendritic spine type quantification with DiI-labeled material revealed an increase of total dendritic protrusions from E70 onwards. The increase was steepest in somatosensory cortex which had, at E110, a proportion of mushroom spines equal to the proportion present at P90. Together, matching the ungulate life history, a rapid development of functional synaptic connectivity in prenatal somatosensory cortex serves the somatomotor abilities essentially required by the newborn nest-fledgling.
Vom Einzelkorn über den Fluss zum Stauraum – Beitrag der numerischen Modellierung zu Sedimentforschung und -management
Authors: Tritthart Michael , Habersack Helmut , Hauer Christoph
Published: February 2025

Der Artikel beleuchtet die Rolle der numerischen Modellierung im Rahmen der Arbeiten des CD-Labors „Sedimentforschung und -management“. Es werden numerische Modelle und deren Anwendung zur Untersuchung des Sedimenttransports, der Morphodynamik und der ökologischen Funktionen von Gewässern vorgestellt. Die Anwendung der Modellwerkzeuge zur Grundlagenforschung ermöglicht die Entschlüsselung der Mechanismen des Bewegungsbeginns von Sedimentkörnern und des Transports von Schwebstoffen im Wasserkörper. Die angewandte Forschung zeigt, dass sowohl Buhnen als auch Kiesinseln signifikante Auswirkungen auf die Hydrodynamik und Morphodynamik von Fließgewässern haben. Buhnen tragen zur Erreichung eines morphologischen Gleichgewichts und zur Sohlstabilisierung bei, während Kiesinseln multifunktionale Vorteile bieten, darunter die Verbesserung der Habitatverfügbarkeit und die Regulierung des Niederwassers. Die Ergebnisse unterstreichen darüber hinaus die Bedeutung der Wahl geeigneter Modellmaßstäbe, um Skaleneffekte zu minimieren und die Genauigkeit der Modellierungen zu erhöhen. Die gewonnenen Erkenntnisse tragen zu einer breiteren Wissensbasis von ökologischen Wasserbaumaßnahmen in Fließgewässern und Stauräumen bei und können bei zukünftigen Planungen berücksichtigt werden.
Effects of GDF6 on active protein synthesis by cells of degenerated intervertebral disc
Authors: Tam Vivian , Chopra Neha , Sima Stone , Chen Peikai , Sharma Rakesh , Chan Danny , Diwan Ashish
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVD) is a leading cause of low back pain, a prevalent musculoskeletal condition. IVD degeneration is characterized by the degradation of nucleus pulposus (NP), annulus fibrosus (AF), and cartilage endplates (EP). Growth Differentiation Factor 6 (GDF6), part of the bone morphogenetic protein family, has demonstrated potential in maintaining disc integrity. However, its precise role in cellular protein synthesis during IVD degeneration remains unclear.

Methods

This study employed Stable Isotope Labeling by Amino Acids in Cell Culture (SILAC) to investigate the effects of GDF6 on protein synthesis in NP, AF, and EP cells isolated from degenerated human IVDs. Cells were cultured in SILAC media with and without GDF6 treatment. The proteomic profiles were analyzed via mass spectrometry, comparing newly synthesized “heavy” proteins with pre-existing “light” proteins.

Results

GDF6 treatment altered protein synthesis in degenerated IVD cells. In NP cells, GDF6 reduced the synthesis of matrisome proteins, including collagens and proteoglycans, while promoting proteins associated with ECM stability, such as LOX, PCOLCE and HAPLN1/3. AF cells demonstrated an upregulation of ECM-stabilizing proteins like POSTN and FMOD. EP cells showed minimal changes, but GDF6 enhanced the synthesis of collagen type II, suggesting improved ECM integrity. Secretome analysis revealed that GDF6 modulated extracellular signalling by promoting ECM-stabilizing proteins and reducing inflammatory markers.

Conclusion

GDF6 exerts compartment-specific effects on protein synthesis in degenerated IVDs, promoting ECM stability, reducing fibrosis, and potentially preserving hydration. These findings support the potential of GDF6 as a therapeutic agent in treating IVD degeneration, particularly in NP-targeted therapies. Future studies should optimize GDF6 dosing and delivery to maximize its regenerative potential.
Three weight Koopman semigroups on Lebesgue spaces
Authors: Miana Pedro J. , Poblete Verónica
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we consider three different semiflows

$$(\phi _t)_{t\ge 0}, \, (\psi _t)_{t\ge 0}$$

(

ϕ
t

)

t
≥
0

,

(

ψ
t

)

t
≥
0

and

$$(\varphi _t)_{t\ge 0}$$

(

φ
t

)

t
≥
0

on the real half-line given by

$$\begin{aligned} \phi _t(r):=e^{-t}r+1-e^{-t},\ \psi _t(r):= \frac{e^t r}{1+r(e^t-1)}, \ \varphi _t(r):= \frac{(1 + e^t)r -1 + e^t}{(-1 + e^t) r + 1 + e^t}, \end{aligned}$$

ϕ
t

(
r
)

:
=

e

-
t

r
+
1
-

e

-
t

,

ψ
t

(
r
)

:
=

e
t

r

1
+
r
(

e
t

-
1
)

,

φ
t

(
r
)

:
=

(
1
+

e
t

)

r
-
1
+

e
t

(
-
1
+

e
t

)

r
+
1
+

e
t

,

for

$$r, t\ge 0$$

r
,
t
≥
0

. These semiflows induce three weight Koopman semigroups,

$$(T^\gamma _{t, p})_{t>0},$$

(

T

t
,
p

γ

)

t
>
0

,

$$ \, (S^\gamma _{t,p})_{t>0}$$

(

S

t
,
p

γ

)

t
>
0

and

$$(R^\gamma _{t,p})_{t>0}$$

(

R

t
,
p

γ

)

t
>
0

on the fractional Lebesgue spaces

$${\mathcal {T}}_p^{(\alpha )}(t^\alpha )$$

T
p

(
α
)

(

t
α

)

, closed subspaces of

$$L^p({\mathbb {R}}^+)$$

L
p

(

R

+

)

for some

$$\alpha $$

α

and

$$\gamma \ge 0$$

γ
≥
0

. We describe spectrum sets, point spectrums and resolvent operators of their infinitesimal generators. Three Cesàro-like operators, defined using the Chen fractional integral,

$$\begin{aligned} {\mathcal {C}}_{\mu , \nu }f(r):= & \frac{1}{\vert r-1\vert ^{\mu +\nu -1}} \int _{\Gamma _{1,r}}\vert s-1\vert ^{\mu -1} \vert r-s\vert ^{\nu -1} f(s)ds, \quad r>0,\\ {{\mathfrak {C}}}_{\mu , \nu }^\gamma f(r):= & \frac{r^\mu }{\vert r-1\vert ^{\mu +\nu +\gamma -1}} \int _{\Gamma _{1,r}}\frac{\vert s-1\vert ^{\mu +\gamma -1}}{s^{\mu +\nu }} \vert r-s\vert ^{\nu -1} f(s)ds,\ r>0, \\ \textbf{C}^\gamma _{\mu , \nu }f(r):= & \displaystyle 2^\nu \frac{|r + 1|^{\mu - \gamma }}{\ |r-1|^{\mu + \nu - 1}} \int _{\Gamma _{1,r}} \frac{|s - 1|^{\mu - 1}}{\ |s + 1|^{\mu + \nu - \gamma } } \, | r - s|^{\nu - 1} f(s) ds, \ r>0, \\ \end{aligned}$$

C

μ
,
ν

f

(
r
)

:
=

1

|
r
-
1
|

μ
+
ν
-
1

∫

Γ

1
,
r

|
s
-
1
|

μ
-
1

|
r
-
s
|

ν
-
1

f

(
s
)

d
s
,

r
>
0
,

C

μ
,
ν

γ

f

(
r
)

:
=

r
μ

|
r
-
1
|

μ
+
ν
+
γ
-
1

∫

Γ

1
,
r

|
s
-
1
|

μ
+
γ
-
1

s

μ
+
ν

|
r
-
s
|

ν
-
1

f

(
s
)

d
s
,

r
>
0
,

C

μ
,
ν

γ

f

(
r
)

:
=

2
ν

|
r
+
1
|

μ
-
γ

|
r
-
1
|

μ
+
ν
-
1

∫

Γ

1
,
r

|
s
-
1
|

μ
-
1

|
s
+
1
|

μ
+
ν
-
γ

|
r
-
s
|

ν
-
1

f

(
s
)

d
s
,

r
>
0
,

(for certain

$$\mu , \nu , \gamma \in {\mathbb {R}}$$

μ
,
ν
,
γ
∈
R

and

$$\Gamma _{1,r}:=(1,r)$$

Γ

1
,
r

:
=

(
1
,
r
)

when

$$r>1$$

r
>
1

and

$$\Gamma _{1,r}:=(r,1)$$

Γ

1
,
r

:
=

(
r
,
1
)

in the case

$$0<r<1$$

0
<
r
<
1

) are subordinated to these

$$C_0$$

C
0

-semigroups. These representations allow to obtain their norms and spectrum sets.
Hydrogen evolution at MoS2: rationalising the reaction mechanism and outlook for electrocatalyst development
Authors: Parkinson Joseph D. , Rees Neil V.
Published: February 2025

MoS2 has seen decades of research into enhancing its electrocatalytic activity towards the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction; however, consistently, the literature has been undecided and often contradictory on the true nature of its active sites. Herein, the understanding of MoS2 active sites has been reviewed, collating chemical evidence across the literature using techniques such as XPS, Raman, and electrochemical studies to deduce a more complete picture of the origins of its catalytic activity. A seemingly contradictory literature landscape has been rationalised, concluding that the most accurate data appears to back sulphur defects, and thus low-coordinate Mo sites, as the active sites of interest, alongside demonstrating how parsing the literature in this way can help locate agreement where only contradiction was thought to reside. Following this, learning from the various techniques used in their elucidation is not only beneficial for future work on this material but also for electrocatalyst development as a whole.
Japan society of clinical oncology position paper on appropriate clinical use of molecular residual disease (MRD) testing
Authors: Kobayashi Shin , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Hashimoto Tadayoshi , Bando Hideaki , Oki Eiji , Karasaki Takahiro , Horinouchi Hidehito , Ozaki Yukinori , Iwata Hiroji , Kato Taigo , Miyake Hideaki , Ohba Akihiro , Ikeda Masafumi , Chiyoda Tatsuyuki , Hasegawa Kosei , Fujisawa Takao , Matsuura Kazuto , Namikawa Kenjiro , Yajima Shugo , Yoshino Takayuki , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: February 2025

Although the 5-year relative survival rates for resectable solid tumors have improved over the past few years, the risk of postoperative recurrence necessitates effective monitoring strategies. Recent advancements in molecular residual disease (MRD) testing based on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis have shown considerable promise in the context of predicting recurrence; however, significant barriers to widespread clinical implementation remain—mainly, low awareness among healthcare professionals, high costs, and lack of standardized assays and comprehensive evidence. This position paper, led by the Japan Society of Clinical Oncology, aims to establish a common framework for the appropriate clinical use of MRD testing in a tumor type-agnostic manner. It synthesizes currently available evidence, reviews region-specific clinical trends, addresses critical clinical questions related to MRD testing, and offers recommendations to guide healthcare professionals, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and regulatory authorities. These recommendations were developed based on a voting process involving 15 expert members, ensuring a consensus-driven approach. These findings underscore the importance of collaborative efforts among various stakeholders in enhancing the clinical utility of MRD testing. This project aimed to foster consensus and provide clear guidelines to support the advancement of precision medicine in oncology and improve patient outcomes in the context of perioperative care.
Endomorphism Algebras of Equivariant Exceptional Collections
Authors: Krug Andreas , Nikolov Erik
Published: February 2025

Given an action of a finite group on a triangulated category with a suitable strong exceptional collection, a construction of Elagin produces an associated strong exceptional collection on the equivariant category. In the untwisted case, we prove that the endomorphism algebra of the induced exceptional collection is the basic reduction of the skew group algebra of the endomorphism algebra of the original exceptional collection.
S.P.L. Sørensen, the pH concept and its early history
Authors: Kragh Helge
Published: February 2025

Although the two-letter symbol pH is extremely common in chemistry and elsewhere, its origin and early dissemination has only received scant attention among chemists and historians of science. Introduced as a convenient symbol for ‘hydrogen ion exponent’ by the Danish biochemist S.P.L. Sørensen in 1909, after a decade or two pH won broad acceptance in the fields of physiology, biochemistry, medical research, and industrial chemistry in particular. Apart from detailing how pH and related concepts were initially received, this paper examines the language and nomenclature associated with the pH scale until about 1930. What is today written as pH was in the past symbolized in a variety of other ways. Although Sørensen never became a Nobel laureate, he was nominated many times and the evaluations of the Nobel committees throw further light on how his innovation was conceived by contemporary chemists and physiologists. The paper also discusses, if in less detail, how the original definition

$${\text{pH}} = - {\text{log}}\left[ {{\text{H}}^{ + } } \right]$$

pH
=
-
log

H

+

was revised in the early 1920s into the currently accepted form involving hydrogen ion activities rather than concentrations. The paper is essentially but not strictly limited to the period from about 1905 to the mid-1930s.
A highly accurate Mamdani fuzzy inference system for tennis match predictions
Authors: Tüű-Szabó Boldizsár , Kóczy László T.
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a Mamdani fuzzy inference system (FIS) designed for predicting tennis match outcomes with greater accuracy compared to existing models such as the Weighted Elo (WElo) ranking system. By integrating factors like historical performance, surface-specific proficiency, and recent form trends, the Mamdani FIS provides a nuanced approach to forecasting match results. Central to this method is the optimization of membership functions using a Bacterial Evolutionary Algorithm (BEA), which fine-tunes parameters to better model uncertainties inherent in sports analytics. This is the further development of Nawa and Furuhashi’s original approach of fuzzy system parameter discovery, which operates on the stricter conditions concerning the membership function shapes. The study demonstrates that the Mamdani FIS outperforms the traditional methods in both predictive accuracy and profitability of betting strategies. Through extensive validation, the model achieves higher accuracy and lower log loss metrics, indicating improved reliability in prediction outcomes. Additionally, the Mamdani FIS consistently yields higher returns on investment across various betting scenarios, showcasing its practical utility in sports betting applications. Overall, the proposed Mamdani FIS represents a robust tool for tennis match prediction, with potential extensions to other sports and predictive contexts. Future research may explore incorporating additional variables and applying this fuzzy inference approach to broader areas of sports analytics.
Atopic dermatitis: a comprehensive updated review of this intriguing disease with futuristic insights
Authors: Abdel-Mageed Heidi M.
Published: February 2025

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a paradigmatic prevalent, long-lasting, and inflammatory skin condition with a diverse range of clinical manifestations. The etiology and clinical symptoms of AD are influenced by complex pathophysiological processes, which involve a strong genetic component, epidermal dysfunction, and immunological dysregulation, and a strong influence of other physiological and environmental factors. The FDA has approved targeted and well-tolerated immunomodulators including biologics like dupilumab and crisaborole, and small molecules such as baricitinib, as novel therapies for AD. They effectively treat AD but are too expensive for most patients. The review provides an update on the state of knowledge of AD pathogenesis, discusses the available diagnostic and scoring indices, and provides a scientific foundation for treatment methods for AD. This review also presents data on clinical efficacy of innovative treatments’ considering recent guidelines, emphasizing the newest medications and ongoing trials. Finally, the new implication of artificial intelligence (AI) in AD management is explored, where AI can speed up diagnosis and therapy. The PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases were used for this review.

Graphical Abstract
Canopy cover has divergent effects on movement of closely related bumble bees in managed conifer forest landscapes
Authors: Zitomer Rachel A. , Pope Nathaniel S. , Epps Clinton W. , Crowhurst Rachel S. , Rivers James W.
Published: February 2025

Context

Functional connectivity—the degree to which landscape features facilitate or impede movement among resource patches—affects animal survival, health, and ability to cope with environmental changes. This is particularly important in heterogeneous landscapes prone to rapid change, such as intensively managed forests.

Objectives

We aimed to quantify the effects of forest canopy cover and roads on foraging movement of two closely related bumble bee species (Bombus vosnesenskii and Bombus caliginosus) in coniferous forest landscapes intensively managed for timber. We also assessed whether early seral forest configuration predicted site-level colony abundance for each species.

Methods

We sampled bumble bees and surveyed floral resources in 75 sites in three study landscapes in the central Oregon Coast Range. We modeled the effects of forest canopy cover and secondary road cover on foraging range using a genetic capture-recapture approach and modeled colony abundance as a function of site-level structural connectivity of early seral forest.

Results

We found evidence that canopy cover impeded foraging movement of B. vosnesenskii but not of B. caliginosus. Roads had neutral or inhibitory effects on B. vosnesenskii movement depending on the landscape but only inhibitory effects on B. caliginosus movement. Colony abundance was not related to site-level connectivity for either species.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that landscape features can have divergent effects on space use of even closely related taxa and that site-level response variables may not always reflect functional connectivity. Management of early seral forest habitats should consider not only patch quality but also configuration and species-specific permeability of matrix features.